Ten simple rules for preparing and delivering effective funding pitches in competitive grant applications

In grant applications, oral presentations can be an integral part of the evaluation process. Funding pitches are a specific form of pitch presentations delivered during competitive review procedures to complement a written proposal. Their goal is to convince reviewers of both your project's strength and excellence as well as your suitability as a researcher. This paper offers ten simple rules on how to prepare and deliver effective funding pitches, with a particular focus on content selection, clear structuring, and convincing scientific argumentation. We also highlight the importance of practice and feedback and share practical strategies on how to handle questions and critical discussion professionally.