Creating a business plan is an integral part of starting any endeavor. It not only helps secure startup investment, but the process helps you clarify in your own mind your business and the market you are in.

Here is an outline of a business plan. Click each section below or in the box at right to review the critical elements in a business plan.

Summary Statement
(This introduction is completed last)

A. Business description…
1. Name
2. Location
3. Facility description
4. Products & Services
5. Market & Competition
6. Management expertise.

B. Business Goals
C. Summary of financial needs and uses for the funds.
D. Earnings, projections, and potential return to investors.

Market Analysis
A. Description of Total Market
B. Industry Trends
C. Target Markets
D. Competition

Products or Services
A. Description of product line or service
B. Comparison to competitors’ products or services

Manufacturing Process (if applicable)
A. Materials
B. Source of supply
C. Production methods

Marketing Strategy*
A. Overall strategy
B. Pricing policy
C. Sales Terms
D. Method of selling, distributing and servicing products

Management Plan
A. Form of Business Organization
B. Board of Directors composition (if applicable)
C. Officers: Organizational Chart and responsibilities (if applicable).
D. Resumes of key personnel
E. Staffing plan/number of employees
F. Facilities plan/planned capital movements
G. Operating plan

Financial Data
A. Financial History
B. Three years financial projections…
1. Profit and loss statements
2. Balance sheet
3. Cash flow chart
4. Capital expenditure estimates
5. Explanation of projections.