Who is responsible for what?

A. Form of business organization.
Sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation. If forming a partnership, each partner’s role and responsibility should be written down and agreed on. It is important to have a complete understanding of the business plan. It is not uncommon to start out as a sole proprietor with plans to incorporate later.

B. Board of Directors composition.
This is only needed for corporations. Names, addresses, phone numbers, and experience should be included. If the board is made up of immediate family members it would be sufficient to state that.

C. Officers: Organization chart and responsibilities.
Small businesses do not always have officers. The owner often wears the hat of president, treasurer, and advertising manager.

D. Resumes of key personnel.
Actual resumes can be attached to the business plan. Brief descriptions of experience and qualifications will suffice.

E. Staffing Plan
How many employees will be required? How many hours will they work? Each employee should have a job description.

F. Facilities Plan
How will the facilities be maintained? What about plans for expansion? What has to be done before opening the doors? Will the facilities be handicapped accessible?

G. Operating Plan
Include hours and days of operations for the first year. What should employees do in case of inclement weather?