A Business Plan Template

A good business plan carefully lays out a company's course of action over a period of time. Many people only think a business plan is for new businesses, but they are also a great way for a current business to see itself historically and in the future. Usually the first three years are projected after the start-up for a new business. In addition, banks, lenders, and other investors examine the information and financial documentation being presented before deciding whether or not to provide financing to a new business.

A business plan is an essential tool in obtaining new or additional financing and should describe the business itself in detail as well as all important factors influencing the company, including the market, industry, competition, operations and management policies, problem solving strategies, financial resources and needs, and other vital information. A plan enables business owners to anticipate costs, plan for difficulties, and take advantage of opportunities, as well as design and implement strategies that keep the company running as smoothly as possible.

The template presented here provides a model for you to build a business plan. Keep in mind, there is no single acceptable format for a business plan, they vary widely, and this template is in no way complete. What follows comes from a course taken by myself at a SBDC.

A GENERIC BUSINESS PLAN

Business Summary

A brief overview of your business.

Which Includes:
Name and Type of Business
Description of Product/Service
Business History and Development
Location
Market
Competition
Management
Financial Information
Business Strengths and Weaknesses
Business Growth

Table of Contents

Which Includes:
Topic Headings and Subheadings
Page Number References

Business (History) and Industry Outlook

Examines the conception and subsequent development of your business.

Which Includes:
Start-up Information
Owner/Key Personnel Experience
Location
Development Problems and Solutions
Investment/Funding Information
Future Plans and Goals
Market Trends and Statistics
Major Competitors
Product/Service Advantages
National, Regional, and Local Economic Impact

Product(s) or Service(s) Provided

Defines and details the product(s) or service(s) of your business.

Which Includes:
Unique Features
Niche Served
Market Comparison
Stage of Product/Service Development
Production
Facilities, Equipment, and Labor
Financial Requirements
Product/Service Life Cycle
Future Growth

Market Research

Assessment of product/service applications in relation to consumer buying cycles.

Which Includes:
Target Market
Consumer Buying Habits
Product/Service Applications
Consumer Reactions
Market Factors and Trends
Penetration of the Market
Market Share
Research and Studies
Cost
Sales Volume and Goals

Competition

Which Includes:
Competitor Information
Product/Service Comparison
Market Niche
Product/Service Strengths and Weaknesses
Future Product/Service Development

Marketing

Which Includes:
Product/Service Sales Appeal
Special and Unique Features
Identification of Customers
Sales and Marketing Staff
Sales Cycles
Type of Advertising/Promotion
Pricing
Competition
Customer Services

Operations

Traces development from production or inception to the market.

Which Includes:
Cost Effective Production Methods
Facility
Location
Equipment
Labor
Future Expansion

Administration and Management

Offers a statement of your management philosophy with an in-depth focus on processes and procedures.

Which Includes:
Management Philosophy
Structure of Organization
Reporting System
Methods of Communication
Employee Skills and Training
Employee Needs and Compensation
Work Environment
Management Policies and Procedures
Roles and Responsibilities

Key Personnel

Describes the unique backgrounds of principle employees involved in the business.

Which Includes:
Owner(s) Education and Experience
Positions and Roles
Benefits and Salary
Duties and Responsibilities
Objectives and Goals

Potential Problems and Solutions

Discussion of problem solving strategies that change issues into opportunities.

Which Includes:
Risks
Litigation
Future Competition
Economic Impact
Problem Solving Skills

Financial Information

Secures needed funding and assistance through worksheets and projections detailing financial plans, methods of repayment, and future growth opportunities.

Which Includes:
Financial Statements
Bank Loans
Methods of Repayment
Tax Returns
Start-up Costs
Projected Income (3-5 years)
Projected Cash Flow (3-5 Years)
Projected Balance Statements (3-5 years)

Appendices

Supporting documents used to enhance your business proposal.

Which Includes:
SWOT – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats
(this can be part of a plan throughout or in its own section)
Photographs of product, equipment, facilities, etc.
Copyright/Trademark Documents
Legal Agreements
Marketing Materials
Research and or Studies
Operation Schedules
Organizational Charts
Job Descriptions
Resumes
Additional Financial Documentation

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