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Startup Business Plan Template for Word, PDF

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Template Highlights

• There are ten sections, including the executive summary, introduction to your company, a market analysis, the problem you want to solve, your innovative/disruptive/other -ive word solution, who's on your team, the sales & marketing strategy, your financial plan, your implementation plan, a conclusion, and any additional resources
• The instructions are specific and easy to follow, so all you have to do is fill in the blanks. Bonus: thinking about these things will prepare you for meetings with potential investors, customers, and employees as well
• Some of the sections don't apply to your startup? Delete 'em. Want to add a section that's not there? Add it. You can even customize the branding and color scheme
• Download it as a PDF or Word file
• Print it, email it, send it to your parents so they can frame it

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Startup Business Plan Template

The term “startup” has become a familiar part of the business lexicon and is often used to describe fast-growing, entrepreneur-led companies in the technology sector. Actually, a startup is any business enterprise that has recently been established. If you are in the early stages of starting a business, one of the first steps you will need to take is to create a business plan.

This simple template was designed to help someone new to the business world to easily put together a professional plan describing a new venture. Keep your startup plan short. As your business matures, you can adapt the plan to include additional detail.

You can create different iterations of it for different audiences. The bank will want more financial information, but a new employee might be more interested in your company’s mission statement and your plan for selling the product or service.

Executive Summary

An executive summary is a crucial part of any business plan. It should come first in your document. The executive summary gives the reader, who may be a very busy bank executive, a chance to understand your business in a quick, one-page read.

In no more than a short paragraph for each point, summarize the sections of your business plan:

• Give your elevator pitch and briefly describe your company

• Summarize the market research you have done

• Present the problem you are aiming to solve

• Describe how your product or service solves the problem

• Introduce key management

• Provide a synopsis of your sales and marketing plan

• Explain your financial plan

Close your executive summary with a clear explanation of your project, why it is needed, and how it will benefit future customers and investors.

HubSpot Tip: Write this section last, after you have written all of the other sections. It should summarize your entire business plan in about a page.

About the Company

Describe what makes your company different. This section should convince readers that your business idea is important and that the product or service that you will offer is needed.

Present your company’s name, location, type of business, ownership, and significant assets.

Describe your company’s mission: What is your reason for existence? Describe the values on which you are founding the company.

List the company’s goals and objectives and explain how you fit into the industry.

HubSpot Tip: Keep this section brief. The remainder of the document allows space for you to go into more detail about your business.

Market Analysis

Before writing your business plan, you need to conduct research on the market and industry you are planning to enter. Based on that research, you should describe your industry, the opportunities it offers, and the growth it is experiencing.

Describe the key environmental trends in your industry. What are the barriers to entry (e.g., high production or marketing costs, tariff barriers, regulatory challenges, extensive training)? How is the industry progressing? What is changing?

You should also define your target customers. Who will buy your product or service?

Who are your major competitors? Identify and describe them.

Identify what defines your product or service in the marketplace. What distinctive competencies or offerings do you provide that other companies do not?

HubSpot Tip: Note the key factors for success in this industry, and focus on proving that your company has them.

The Problem

Describe the need in the market that your business idea will fill. How did this need arise and why has it not been filled yet? Explain how you identified the need and how your product or service will meet it.

HubSpot Tip: Keep this section short, as the focus should be on your solution, which you will describe in the next part of the business plan.

Our Solution

Describe the products or services your business will provide. Include your value proposition - describe how your service/product is attractive to customers.

You should also include a description of the features and benefits of your product or service to your customer. Consider capturing this in a simple table like the one below.

Product/Service Feature

Benefit to the Customer

HubSpot Tip: You can include photos or brochures of your products, but consider putting them in an appendix so that they do not interrupt the message in your narrative.

Organizational Structure

Since your company is just starting, it is likely that you do not have many people on your staff. Describe the key operations and management roles in your company, and provide brief biographical sketches of your leadership. The aim is to show to readers that your team has the skills and qualifications to implement what you have outlined in the business plan.

If you receive advice from a board of directors or any high-level external advisors, mention them in this section.

HubSpot Tip: The biographical sketches should include the educational credentials, relevant experience, and related accomplishments of your leaders. Consider personalizing your plan by including headshots of your staff.

Sales and Marketing Strategy

In this section, you should describe how you will promote your new product or service. Begin by identifying challenges with entering the market and explain how you will overcome them. You can use a table like the one below to outline the barriers and your solutions.

Market Barrier/Challenge

Justify the following choices you have made:

• Location – Does it bring cost savings? Is it close to your customer base?

• Pricing Strategy – How will it entice customers to buy your products or services? How will it lead to profits for your business and investors?

• Promotion Plan - Will you use print, radio, television, or social media? Will you hire a marketing manager?

Note the budget for your marketing strategy and tell the reader how you will obtain the funding for this important aspect of your business. If you plan to use consultants or an advertising agency, include these costs in your budget.

HubSpot Tip: Consider including a few mockups of your company’s logos, branding, or marketing materials in an appendix.

Financial Plan

Describe the cost structure and financial aspects of the business. Explain the kind and amount of investment that you need, what you will use the money for, and how you envision your business becoming profitable.

To give readers a peek into your company’s projected financial future, you should include as much of the following financial information as possible. Remember, your business plan is a living document, so even if you do not have all of this information at the startup stage, you can add it as your business matures.

• Cash flow projection – An estimate of how much money you expect to flow in and out of your business.

• Capitalization plan – Lists the sources and uses of capital that your business plans to amass.

• Break-even analysis – A determination of what you need to sell in order to cover the costs of doing business.

• Income statement – Also known as a profit and loss statement (P&L), it shows the company’s revenues and expenses over a period of time.

• Balance sheet – A statement of the assets, liabilities, and capital of a business at a point in time.

Financial documentation is often long, so you should reference them here and include copies in an appendix.

HubSpot Tip: Not everyone is an expert in finance, but it plays an important role in starting a business. Unless you have an accounting background, consider seeking assistance on this section of your plan.

Implementation Plan

Tell the reader how you will implement your business plan. Consider including a timeline like the one below to illustrate the steps in the process to getting your business up and running. Customize it with your dates and the specific steps you will take.

HubSpot Tip: Set reasonable deadlines that you are able to meet, but that show your initiative and eagerness to realize your new venture.

In a few sentences, summarize the main point that you would like the reader to understand about your business. This can vary based on the target audience. For example, if you are presenting your plan to a bank to ask for a loan, this section should focus on your financial viability and why the bank should choose to finance your business.

Describe the next steps, and provide detailed contact information so that the reader can get in touch with you easily.

HubSpot Tip: Your conclusion should incite the reader to act. Make it easy for them by including all of the information they need to move forward.

Want to provide additional detail but need to avoid making your business plan too long? You can insert documents in the Appendices and reference them in the text. In this way, you can provide more information without breaking up the flow of your business plan text.

HubSpot Tip: Consider including examples of your marketing materials, a map of the business location, background research, images of your products, resumes of company leaders, or financial documents in the appendices of your business plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i write a startup business plan, is this template free, can i edit this template, related tags:.

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Business Plan Template for Small Businesses

Business planning can feel complicated. it doesn't have to be. start putting pen to paper today with your free business plan template download..

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Our free business plan template includes:

Fill-in-the-blanks simplicity

You don't need to be an expert. This business plan template makes business planning easy.

All 100% free. We're here to help you succeed in business, no strings attached.

Why you need a business plan template

Writing a business plan can seem like a big task, especially if you’re starting a business for the first time and don’t have a financial background. After all, business plans have changed over the years, and what lenders and investors expect now is different than it was even just 10 years ago.

But using a business plan template will help you:

• Develop a strategy for success
• Reduce the risk of starting a business
• Explore new business ideas
• Attract investors and get funding

Learn more about how you can get value out of your business plan .

What is included in this free business plan template?

This business plan template includes definitions, guidance, and examples for every business plan component needed to start, fund, and grow your business.

After downloading the full template of a business plan, you’ll receive instructions on how to fill out each of the following sections.

Executive summary

The brief summary of your business plan introduces everyone to your business, the problem you solve, and what you’re asking from your readers. It’s the first chapter of your business plan and the last thing you write once you have the details from your full plan.

Problem & solution

More than a simple description of your products and services – here you define the problem you’re solving and the value you provide. It’s also your chance to showcase any initial traction that shows you’re on the right track.

Market analysis and target market

A detailed assessment of the market you intend to enter, including the size and value of the market, potential customer segments, and their buying patterns.

Competition

Show that you know who your competitors are, what advantages you have, and how you’re positioning your business to be competitive.

Marketing & sales

Describe how you’ll reach and sell to potential customers with a detailed sales plan and chosen marketing channels.

What makes your business run? Outline the day-to-day workflows and what needs to be set up for your business to deliver a product or service.

Milestones & metrics

Set goals for your business that include the dates and people responsible for accomplishing them. This is what you’ll use to manage responsibilities, track growth, and execute your larger strategy.

Company overview and team

Provide a brief rundown of the legal and structural components of your company, including your history, current team, and gaps you need to fill.

Financial plan

Create well-structured and accurate financial statements to help you pitch to investors, land funding, and achieve long-term success. All without the help of a financial advisor or a degree in accounting.

While not required, this last section of your business plan is a great place to drop in additional documents that support and strengthen the rest of your plan.

How do you write a simple business plan?

If you’re exploring a business idea and don’t plan to pursue funding, then you actually don’t need to write a traditional business plan. Instead, opt for a one-page plan , which is far easier to create but just as effective.

To write a simple one-page business plan, follow the same core sections as a traditional plan. But instead of lengthy paragraphs and multiple pages covering each area of your business, stick with single sentences and bulleted lists.

If a one-page plan sounds like a better option, download our free simple one-page business plan template to get started.

Start your business plan today

Whether you're writing a business plan to validate your business idea, secure funding, or grow your existing business – our free business plan template will help you achieve your goals.

Business plan template FAQ

What file formats are available for this business plan template?

Our free business plan template is available to download in a number of common file formats including Google Docs, Microsoft Word (doc.x), or as a free business plan PDF . You only have to provide your email address once in order to access all file types for this business plan template.

Can you print out this template for a business plan?

This is a printable business plan template—no matter if you download it as a pdf or word document, or access via Google Docs. The template is pre-formatted and structured to fit lender and investor standards, but can be edited and adjusted to suite your needs before printing. Just be aware that any changes may unintentionally break the template, so make sure to review before printing.

Why should I start with a business plan template?

You should start with a good business plan template (like this one) to avoid having to make guesses about what to include in your business plan and how to structure the document. This business plan template helps you organize your thoughts, and provides guidance, instructions, and examples to create an investor-ready and SBA-approved business plan format. It really speeds up the planning process. Oh, and it's 100% free!

Can I write a business plan myself?

You can absolutely write a business plan by yourself. Millions of entrepreneurs have been in your exact situation and have been able to write complete, detailed, and useful business plans. By using a business plan template, you can speed up the writing process, avoid costly mistakes, and write your business plan without having to pay for additional support.

What are the steps to write a business plan?

The steps to write a business plan include:

• Defining the opportunity: Explain the problem your business solves, the solution you offer, your target market, and the competitive landscape.
• Describing how you'll execute: Outline your marketing and sales strategies, operational plan, milestones, and success metrics.
• Adding company details: Provide information about your business structure, ownership, and team.
• Creating a financial plan and forecasts: Include detailed financial statements, forecasts, and funding requirements.
• Adding supplementary info to your appendix: Add any additional information, such as resumes, permits, and other relevant documents.
• Summarizing your plan: While it may be first, do your executive summary last. In it, you'll briefly summarize your business, highlighting key points such as mission, product/service, and basic financial information.

For additional information, check out our full step-by-step guide to write a business plan .

How many hours does it take to write a business plan?

It can take as little as 30-minutes to write a fully functioning business plan. However, if you need to create a more detailed business plan it can take multiple hours to actually write the full document. To save yourself time, be sure to pick an appropriate business plan type for your intended use case. Additionally, do any necessary research and collect your notes and other documentation beforehand so that you can focus all your effort on writing your business plan.

How can I write a simple business plan?

To write a simple business plan it's best to use a one-page business plan format. A one-page business plan includes all of the same components as a more detailed business plan but is designed to fit on a single page—making it more useful as an internal planning tool. If you still want to use a traditional business plan template, just focus on using bulleted lists and short sentences while writing to create a simpler business plan.

Is writing a business plan easy?

Writing a business plan can be easy if you use the right tools, understand your business, and come in prepared to write your business plan. Using a business plan template can make writing a business plan easier. Additionally, if you focus on just getting your information down quickly, with the expectation that you'll revisit and revise your plan, you can speed up and simplify the process .

Can someone else write my business plan for me?

Yes, you can hire a professional business plan writer to write your business plan for you. Working with a professional can be especially useful if you're still struggling to write your business plan even when using a template for your business plan. Just be prepared to talk about your business, provide the appropriate details, and review the finished business plan to be sure it actually reflects your business. If you need help vetting professional business plan writers, check out our free resource to help you ask just the right questions  of potential plan writers.

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Free Startup Plan, Budget & Cost Templates

By Kate Eby | September 12, 2017

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A business plan describes how a new business will meet its primary objectives over a given period of time. It is both a strategic document that can act as a roadmap and a tool for securing funding and communicating with stakeholders. For a startup business, planning is key to developing a thorough understanding of the target market, competition, market conditions, and financing opportunities.

Included on this page, you'll find a variety of helpful, free startup business planning templates , like a SWOT analysis template , a competitive analysis template , a business startup checklist template , and more.

Startup Business Planning Templates

Competitive analysis template - excel.

Download Competitive Analysis Template

Excel | Smartsheet

Analyze multiple competitors based on the categories you want to compare, and use the results to identify your top rivals. This template contains several sheets to provide a comprehensive look at how your startup stacks up to the competition, the strengths of each company, and potential partnerships or opportunities.

SWOT Analysis Template - Excel

Download SWOT Analysis Template

While researching your business plan, both risks and opportunities are likely to arise. This critical information gives you the chance to plan for how you will take advantage of or address them as needed. A SWOT analysis helps you identify and gain a clear understanding of internal strengths and weaknesses as well as external opportunities and threats. The results of the analysis will inform your business goals and strategies for reaching them. Once completed, you can add this SWOT template to a startup business plan or use it as a planning tool. If this template doesn’t have the details you require, you can find more of our  free SWOT Analysis Templates .

Marketing Plan Template - Excel

Download Marketing Plan Template

Easily create a detailed marketing plan for different campaigns, including projected and actual costs. It also doubles as a marketing calendar template, showing a weekly, monthly, and quarterly breakdown of your timeline and initiatives. A marketing plan is typically part of a business plan, but you can use this dedicated template for developing a thorough plan and schedule.

Business Startup Checklist Template - Excel

Download Business Startup Checklist Template

This template offers a simple checklist to help you organize all of the tasks that need to be accomplished, from initial research and planning to establishing professional partnerships and acquiring necessary permits. Edit the list to include relevant actions for a particular business. This is an easy way to ensure that important items are not overlooked and prioritize steps.

Business Planning Schedule - Excel

Download Business Planning Schedule

This template allows you to create a schedule for tasks with a visual calendar for planning. This layout can help you organize your planning process and provide a timeline for reaching certain milestones. The template is structured around planning stages, allowing you to separate tasks hierarchically. To use this template for another planning process, simply edit the tasks included and add your dates to the schedule.

Target Market Comparison Template - Excel

‌ Download Target Market Comparison Template - Excel

Utilize this worksheet to compare target markets in order to understand which are ideal for your product or service. Understanding your customers is vital not only for developing effective strategies, but also for showing investors that you’ve done the necessary research and understand how to reach potential customers.

Startup Business Plan Template - Word

Download Startup Business Plan Template

Word  | Smartsheet

This template offers a traditional outline for creating a business plan document. You’ll find sections for an executive summary, company description, marketing plan, product and operational information, financial data, and room for appendices. You can refine the plan to suit different industries and business types. For example, if you want to create a technology startup business plan template, you will want to show how the startup will deal with rapidly changing markets, and provide product and market research that shows how your business will be on the cutting edge. You may also need to provide longer-term financial projections since high-tech startups often operate for an extended time without profits. 

For additional resources, visit " Free Startup Business Plan Templates and Examples ."

One-page Business Plan Template - Word

Download One-page Business Plan Template

Excel  |  Word  |  PDF  | Smartsheet

Create a streamlined business plan document on a single page with this Word template. A simplified plan can be helpful for summarizing information into a brief report. This format gives readers a quick overview of your startup business plan while emphasizing key points. 

For additional resources, visit " One-Page Business Plan Templates with a Quick How-To Guide ."

Startup Financial Templates

Small-business budget template - excel.

Download Small-Business Budget Template

This basic budget is ideal for small businesses that want an easy, blank template to customize. To create a business budget, include both fixed and variable expenses along with revenue and funding sources. Use this template to track expenditures and revenue, maintain a balanced budget, and to help grow your business.

Sales Forecast Template - Excel

Download Sales Forecast Template

With this template, you get a 12-month sales forecast as well as sales data from prior years. You can organize the spreadsheet based on product names, target customers, or other categories, and then enter forecasted monthly sales, including adjustments for seasonal changes or other factors that might impact sales. The template also calculates monthly and yearly totals.

Business Startup Costs Template - Excel

Download Business Startup Costs Template

Startup costs begin to accrue before operations begin, so it’s important to determine expenses early on to avoid being underfunded or overspending. This startup costs template shows a summary of both funding and expenses at the top, with itemized details below. You can use this worksheet to outline expenses, create a tentative budget, and compare actual costs as they accrue. Similar to a start up budget template, this version helps you focus on expenditures.

Startup Budget Template - Excel

Download Startup Budget Template

A startup budget is an important tool for identifying what financial resources are available, determining how much revenue is needed to meet business goals, and pinpointing areas where you can save money. A budget works as a planning tool as well as a method for tracking actual expenditures. As part of a business plan, it supports the process of pitching to investors and completing loan applications. This budget template is geared toward startup companies and includes a section for projected monthly costs.

Startup Financial Projections Template - Excel

Download Startup Financial Projections Template

Similar to a pro forma template for startups, this version includes a 12-month profit and loss projection, a balance sheet, and a cash flow statement. Use the template to analyze the current financial standing and run a future forecast for a business. The spreadsheet includes pre-populated fields with expenses and income sources, which you can easily edit to accommodate your business.

Personal Financial Statement - Excel

Download Personal Financial Statement

Some lenders may require a personal financial statement in addition to relevant business data. This template lists assets and liabilities in order to calculate net worth. You’ll also find space for adding a signature so you can certify that the information is correct.

Balance Sheet Template - Excel

Download Balance Sheet Template

This template can be modified to either show an opening day balance for a startup or to create a projected balance sheet. Choose a given time period, enter your numbers for assets, liabilities, and equity, and the template will provide automatic calculations.

First-Year Budget Calculator - Excel

Download First-Year Budget Calculator

Combining business and personal budget information into a single template can be useful for small business owners who are just getting started. This template focuses on first-year budget calculations including startup costs, operating expenses, estimated income, personal expenses, and more. You can identify fixed and recurring costs for a full view of expenses for the first year.

12-Month Cash Flow Forecast - Excel

Download 12-Month Cash Flow Forecast

This template shows all 12 months of the year for a monthly and annual cash flow forecast. In addition to creating a forecast, you can compare actual cash flow totals for each month. The template is divided into categories for cash on-hand, cash receipts, and cash paid-out, with an alternating color scheme for easy viewing.

Annual Business Budget Template - Excel

Download Annual Business Budget Template

As a startup becomes established, this template can be used to create a budget showing totals on a monthly, quarterly, and annual basis. You can create a projected 12-month budget as well as compare financial data to the previous year’s performance. The template provides detailed income and expense categories for thorough planning and tracking.

Financial Dashboard Template - Excel

Download Financial Dashboard Template - Excel

Create a visual financial report with this dashboard template, which tracks statistics over time using graphs and charts. Compare sales rep performance, product revenue, regional data, or other financial KPIs. A graphical report provides a quick overview of financial information in a format that is easy to understand and share with stakeholders.

Marketing Budget Plan - Excel

Download Marketing Budget Plan

Create a dedicated marketing budget with results displayed in both a spreadsheet format and pie chart. Calculate costs for various marketing campaigns in order to view fund allocation. The template includes space for comments and notes to aid in strategic business planning.

Website Budget Template - Excel

Download Website Budget Template

This startup website template provides sections for calculating initial development costs as well as creating a projected budget over three years. View a list of costs and benefits to see how the website will impact the business over time. This template can help you determine the value of your website investment and track actual annual performance.

Loan Amortization Schedule - Excel

Download Loan Amortization Schedule

Keep track of a loan balance, payments made, upcoming amounts due, and interest paid with this loan amortization template. Enter lender information and loan terms at the top of the template, and then use the schedule to track payment details. Startups owners will appreciate how easy it is to manage business loans and create repayment plans.

Why Write a Startup Business Plan?

The benefits of writing a startup business plan range from clarifying initial ideas to attracting potential investors. The process of business planning can help uncover weaknesses as well as opportunities you may have overlooked. Planning encourages entrepreneurs to examine each step required to start a business in order to avoid mistakes in the long run. Collecting data through market analysis can allow you to confidently make informed decisions and provide a dose of reality to your business idea by affirming or challenging initial assumptions about your product, business model, or strategies for achieving success. Once you clarify your startup vision, analyze financial and market data, and define goals, you can create a strategic action plan to use as a guide for reaching objectives and addressing potential challenges. 

After establishing a startup, continue business planning to identify ways to grow and improve the business as well as to plan for resource use and development. If you treat your business plan as a living document that you regularly review and update, you can also use it to measure progress over time. An effective plan communicates a company’s vision to team members and all stakeholders, and provides both a foundation and an adaptable model that can grow and change along with the business.

One key reason for startups to develop sound business plans is to convince investors and lenders to finance the endeavor. Most banks and investors will want to see detailed financial projections and a statement of your current personal and business financial standing. Investors may want to see market data and other proof that your plan has a high chance for success. Without adequate financing, no startup can succeed, so it’s essential to create an ironclad pitch for funders.

What to Include in a Business Plan

Business plans are tailored to fit a specific type of business and to serve a particular purpose, whether it’s to seek funding, influence a particular audience, or develop strategy for internal use. While you’ll need to continually revise plans need to fulfill a certain function, there are similar elements in all business plans. Here are some of the common sections included in a startup business plan:

• Summary and Objectives: This first section can provide background information, a detailed company description, general industry information, goals that you want to achieve, and long-term objectives. Depending on the size and type of business, this information may be divided into multiple sections or summarized in one pitch. 
• Marketing Plan: Providing market data and an outline for how you will market and sell products and services allows you to show a deep understanding of your target audience and your plans for branding and distribution. Be sure to conduct thorough research that you can use to back up your plans with supporting numbers and statistics. You may also include separate, detailed sections on competition, customer characteristics, product features, sales forecasts, and marketing strategy.
• Operational Plan: This section is concerned with the equipment, processes, and people involved in daily operations. You may want to include details on location requirements, production methods, legal issues (such as licenses or insurance requirements), staffing information, vendor needs, and other operational elements. 
• Management and Organization: A description of management positions and professional advisors provides an organized look at key roles, the experience individuals bring to the business, and important consultants or mentors. You can also include resumes for key employees and startup owners if the business plan is supporting a loan application or investor pitch.
• Startup Expenses and Financial Plan: Estimate expenses as accurately as possible and include contingencies for unforeseen costs. Creating estimates requires thorough research, and expenses should include even small items - while they are easy to overlook, they may add up to significant costs. A comprehensive financial plan can include profit and loss projections and other budget forecasts in order to provide a clear picture of a startup’s financial standing and future outlook. 

A business plan will, of course, look different for a restaurant, web-based business, technology service provider, or product manufacturer. Before getting started, consider what you want to accomplish with your business plan, and customize it accordingly.

Business Plan Tips

Taking the time for thorough research and planning can help you make informed decisions, avoid potential pitfalls, and craft an effective plan. Here are a few tips to consider as you create a business plan:

• Get Creative: Business plans can follow a simple outline, but turning your plan into a creative presentation can make a statement and grab investors’ attention. 
• Use Data Wisely: No matter what format or approach you take, a startup business plan should be concise and include compelling evidence and hard data to back up your claims. 
• Refine Your Plan: Consider your audience and review your plan to ensure the information presented is appropriate, sufficient, and clear. 
• Focus on Objectives: Connect every strategy to core objectives so that there is a clear path for attaining success. 

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Empower your people to go above and beyond with a flexible platform designed to match the needs of your team — and adapt as those needs change. 

The Smartsheet platform makes it easy to plan, capture, manage, and report on work from anywhere, helping your team be more effective and get more done. Report on key metrics and get real-time visibility into work as it happens with roll-up reports, dashboards, and automated workflows built to keep your team connected and informed. 

When teams have clarity into the work getting done, there’s no telling how much more they can accomplish in the same amount of time.  Try Smartsheet for free, today.

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• Sample Business Plans

Startup Business Plan

Starting a business is an exciting and overwhelming prospect at the same time. Having a business gives you autonomy but comes with a lot of responsibility at the same time.

But you don’t need to worry! If you plan your business down to the last detail, all the overwhelming aspects of your business can become easier to manage.

Proper business planning also helps you get the maximum out of your business efforts and writing a business plan is the first step for any business planning.

A well-written business plan helps you grow your business rapidly and optimally. To make the business plan writing process easy and faster, we have created this startup business plan.

First, let’s understand an important question.

What is Business Plan Template?

A business plan template is a guide that consists of an outline of all the required sections of a perfect business plan. It also includes step-by-step instructions on how to write each section of the business plan.

A good business plan usually consists of an executive summary, business overview, market analysis, operations plan, and so on.

Now that you know what a business plan template is, let’s move on to understand why you need one.

Why do you need a business plan for your startup?

If you’ve recently set up your startup business, it’s understandable why you might be dumbstruck. There’s a lot that needs to be done and it’s not always obvious why. Fortunately, we can help you create a business plan. Some of the reasons why you need a business plan are:

• Getting started: Getting a business up and running may seem chaotic. You may be unsure of where to begin, and here’s when a business plan can help you set things straight. It helps prioritize and organize your business activities.
• Predict challenges: Creating a startup business plan helps determine the risks and obstacles that your startup is likely to face in the future. This helps you stay prepared with suitable tactics to overcome these challenges.
• Funding: Attracting investors to score funding is essential for startups. Whether you’re applying for a loan or seeking investors, a business plan helps gain their trust. Having a business plan conveys that you are serious about your business and are trustworthy.
• Goals and milestones: A business plan helps you create measurable goals . It further helps induce focus and track your progress. Witnessing the progress motivates you and your team to perform better and achieve more milestones.
• Finances: Finances are one of the trickiest aspects of a business, especially for a startup. Every decision you make has a financial implication. Hence, it is vital to consider every aspect in decision-making. A business plan helps you manage, track, and predict your finances.
• Revising strategies: When you’re just setting up your business, you’re bound to make the wrong assumptions. A business plan helps you identify your mistakes and revamp your strategies to get back on track.

Types of Business Plan Template

Moreover, business plan templates come in different forms and you can select the one that fits your needs the best.

Here are the two most common ones:

Simple Business Plan

Traditional business plan.

Let’s understand what’s the difference between these business plans and which one is best for you.

A simple business plan template is super handy to write a quick and concise business plan.

It helps you cover all the pointers necessary to attract investors as well as for creating a well-rounded plan.

A lean business plan is not only easy to write but it is also written in a way that helps you take action to solve business problems as well as to introduce product and service-based solutions in the market.

Here are the 9 sections of a simple or lean business plan:

• Problem:  This section consists of a brief description of the market problem you are trying to solve with your product or service.
• Solution:  This section would consist of how you’ll solve the concerned market problem, and how is your solution different from the already existing ones.
• Key Metrics:  Include all your data including sales target, break-even analysis, funding requirements, and so on in this section.
• Unique Proposition:  In this section, you’ll describe the USP of your product and the data to support your claim. It can either be in the form of surveys or customer and competitive analysis.
• Unfair Advantage:  This section will help you take note of all the unfair advantages of your competitors and how you’ll prevent them from using the same.
• Channels:  In this section list down mediums through which you can market and distribute your product or service.
• Target Audience:  Through this section, you’ll describe the key attributes of your ideal customer or draw out your customer persona .
• Cost Structure:  This section would consist of the cost structure and describe its feasibility.
• Revenue Streams:  In this section list out your revenue stream and when you plan on starting it.

In conclusion, a lean business plan is a great tool if you are just starting and don’t want to get into the hassle of writing a 30-page-long business plan. Moreover, it can also serve as a pitch for investors.

But despite all of its advantages, a lean business plan might not be your cup of tea. Or if you plan on growing your business you might need a more detailed and elaborate plan.

And for that, a traditional business plan is a very handy tool. It might seem tedious to write, but it acts as a guide at every step of your business.

And here’s what you’ll include in a traditional business plan.

A traditional business plan is a living document that grows alongside your business. It helps you grab opportunities unforeseen by unplanned businesses and helps you tackle obstacles smartly and smoothly. A business plan is one of the best investments of time that you can put into your business.

Here are a few major sections of a traditional business plan:

• Business Overview
• Mission Statement
• Product/Service Summary
• Market Opportunity Summary
• Traction Summary
• Vision Statement
• Capital Request
• Problem Analysis
• Market Size & Growth
• Market Trends
• Market Segments
• Industry Success Stories
• Market position
• Unique selling position
• Pricing strategy
• Value to customer
• Revenue Channels
• Critical Costs
• Cost Maturation & Milestones
• Investment Costs
• Operating Efficiencies
• Competitor 1
• Competitor 2
• Similarities & Differences
• Customer Definition
• Channel Cost Assumptions
• SWOT – internal and external forces
• Launch Strategy and Budget
• Distribution Channels
• Product Development
• Manufacturing/Distribution
• Early Customers & Revenue
• Testimonials & Social Proof
• Partnerships
• Intellectual Property
• Press Mentions
• Organization Chart
• Hiring Plan
• Funding Goal
• Use of Funds
• Why Invest? / Conclusion
• Income Statement
• Balance Sheet
• Break-Even Analysis

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Why Choose a Traditional Business Plan?

Startups are very different from established businesses. The most obvious reason is that startups don’t have any previous data on how to run their business. This is precisely why a traditional business plan will work for any startup.

There are some vital differences between a traditional business plan and a simple business plan. These differences exist due to several reasons:

• Lack of a definite business model In the early stages, it’s difficult to state the structure of your business model because your business idea and its execution are still in the testing phase. Only after a certain period of trial and error, you would be able to describe your business model.
• No performance history While creating financial projections, an established company examines its credit history, past sales, revenue, expenditure, and growth rate. In contrast, a startup needs to begin with assumptions. You have to predict sales, costs, expenses, growth rate, etc. To increase the accuracy of your predictions, you need to gather reliable factual data to back your predictions.
• Increased risk Startups have an increased risk factor compared to established businesses. This is because startups lack a loyal customer base, an expert team, brand recognition, etc. Devise strategies to overcome the potential risks and challenges that may come your way in the future.

These are the reasons why you need a dedicated business plan for your startup that helps focus on the essential elements while setting up your business.

Before you start writing your business plan, go through the below checkpoints to make sure you are ready for it.

Tips to Create a Business Plan for Your Startup

Writing your first business plan can be overwhelming and confusing. However daunting it may seem, it is still something you can’t avoid.

• Use a startup business plan template: It can be hard to start from scratch, especially when you are unsure of where to begin. A business plan template helps you get started quickly. You can use it to navigate and structure your plan according to your standards
• Tailor your plan: After choosing a template, it is essential to customize it to your business requirements. Remove sections that are irrelevant and create your business plan based on the purpose you need it for. For instance, if you are building a business plan to get funding, the financial section of your business plan needs more emphasis.
• Research thoroughly: Every section of your business plan needs extensive research. Collect data about your market, industry, and competitors. Study their pricing strategies and market trends. Run surveys and talk to your potential customers to understand their needs and problems.
• Compose according to your objectives: It can be easy to lose sight of your objectives and get lost in the process of writing your business plan. To avoid that, make sure that your marketing strategies, operations, and financial goals are aligning with your business objectives.
• Ask for feedback: Once you finish creating a business plan, get your team and various experts to provide your feedback. This helps you revise and make adjustments to your plan before presenting it to an investor or client.
• Be prepared to answer questions: Before you present your startup business plan, it is crucial to prepare yourself to answer any questions related to your plan. It can be because the reader of your business plan may not understand a specific topic or want to test your knowledge. Regardless, keep yourselves informed and ready.

Download a sample startup business plan

Need help writing your business plan from scratch? Here you go;  download our free startup business plan pdf  to start.

It’s a modern business plan template specifically designed for your house-flipping business. Use the example business plan as a guide for writing your own.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

In conclusion, a business plan is an extremely handy device to get the best out of your efforts if you use it the right way. Planning your business involves consideration of several aspects that make up your business like the type of your industry, the stage of your business, the number of competitors, market size, etc.

Nonetheless, business planning always acts as a plus while tackling the challenges your business will face. It provides you with a proper structure to deal with your business problems head-on.

So, are you thinking of starting your own business? Then go ahead and start planning!

After getting started with Upmetrics , you can copy this startup business plan template into your business plan, modify the required information, and download your startup business plan pdf or doc file. It’s the fastest and easiest way to start writing a business plan for your new startup.

Related Articles On Business Plan Writing

• How to Write a Business Plan Step by Step
• Deciding the Ideal Length of Your Business Plan
• How to Write an Operations Plan for Your Business Plan
• Browse Through 400+ Free Business Plan Examples
• How to Design a Detailed Table of Contents for Your Business Plan

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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Apply our simple business plan template to give you a head start.

Meet the Team

Mission Statement

Product Overview

Value Propositions

Industry Landscape

Market Size

Customer Descriptions

Market Growth

Competitive Comparison

Competitive Advantage

Business Growth Projections

Marketing Mix

Conversion Funnels

Funding Needed

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LEARN ABOUT BUSINESS PLANS

What is a Business Plan ?

A business plan is a written document or presentation that allows business leaders to share the business potential and goals, as well as your plans for the future. The business plan is a key step in working towards getting investors looking at your product.

If you're looking to flesh out a new business idea or venture in order to get cofounders or investors on board, you need a business plan. Get started with one of our templates to give you a starting point and framework for your own plan.

Why do I need a business plan?

Writing a business plan is a key step in securing funding and convincing high level executives that your business is worth their time. A well-executed business plan is crucial to the success of a business and it’s one of the first steps you should take.

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Learn more about creating your own business plan presentation or document by going through our step-by-step tutorial below or watching this quick video.

• Log into your Visme dashboard or create a new account, then click Create New Project.
• Access our business plan templates by searching for “Business Plan” in the search box.
• Select the template, then customize the content for your business.
• Update any charts and graphs to reflect your business goals.
• Once all your content is added, customize colors, logos, icons and more.

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Startup Business Plan Template

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A startup business plan template can help entrepreneurs set their goals, objectives, and strategies. These templates are usually adapted to suit specific businesses or industries.

What Is a Startup Business Plan?

A startup business plan is, as the name suggests, a business plan for companies that are still in the startup phase. A startup company has to be prepared for future problems. A business plan helps it be prepared for the unexpected by giving insights into the market and competition.

If the product it produces is not successful, a startup should have an idea of what to do next. It also needs to know how much money will be required for things like marketing campaigns or expansion. It is important that a startup business plan offers a clear idea for growth strategy to best allocate resources.

If you’d like to learn more about startup business plans, check out our What Is a Business Plan guide.

How Long Should a Startup Business Plan Be?

A startup business plan should be between one to three pages long with key points listed in bullet points. It should also be easy to read and understand.

Benefits of Using a Startup Business Plan Template

A startup business plan template can be a useful tool for entrepreneurs, no matter what type of company they are trying to launch.

Some of the benefits of using a startup business plan template include:

• It will help you save time and make it easy for you to create your business plan.
• It can also help you avoid mistakes and ensure that your business plan is on file.
• Having a consistent format and look will make it easier for investors and other stakeholders to understand what you’re proposing.

Different Types of Startup Business Plan Templates

Creating or purchasing a blank startup business template will ensure you create a proper business plan for your business. Templates can be modified to include only those sections you need for your specific business type. Sections including financial projections, product launch plans, and more.

A template lets you fill out all the information you need to create a polished and professional business plan — from an executive summary to forecasting annual profits based on market insights. 

A good startup template includes these sections:

• Executive summary
• Company description
• Products and services
• Market analysis
• Management team
• Financial plan
• Operational plan

Free Startup Business Plan Generator

Use our free business plan generator to write your startup business plan. Start filling out the sections while keeping the following in mind.

Startup business plan template best practices:

• Think about your product or service and what market it will be in.
• Understand your competition.
• Do some in depth market research to ensure you have the competitive advantage.
• Work through each section of the business plan template.
• Consult with noncompetitive experts to see how you might improve your plan.
• Create a final draft.
• Stick to your plan as you build out your business, modifying it as needed.

Final Thoughts

Writing can be frustrating. Researching can be daunting. To make writing a business plan easier, use a business plan template. A business plan template saves you time and the hassle of starting from scratch. 

The better your business plan, the more likely your business will succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of businesses need business plans.

Business plans are one of the most important documents for today’s startups. They help potential investors decide whether they should invest in your business or not.

For startups looking for funding, a business plan is the best way to present to potential investors. It also offers a great opportunity for startups to get feedback from peers and other professionals in the field.

Business plans are necessary when businesses need to apply for certain types of loans or grants. A business plan can be used as proof that you have an idea, have taken steps to bring it into fruition, and know how to run a successful enterprise.

What is the difference between a startup business plan and an existing company’s business plan?

In a startup business plan, the founders need to give a detailed description of what their company does and why it is better than its competitors. In an existing company’s business plan, the focus is more on discussing past accomplishments and future plans.

How long should a startup business plan be?

A business plan is a written document that provides an overview of the business, its objectives, and the market. Generally these plans are one to three pages long with key points listed in bullet-point format. 

Keep the plan on hand for when you need it most – like when you hit hard times or when you’re faced with a problem that cannot be solved by any other means.

Further Reading

• July 18, 2024
• What Is a Business Continuity Plan? July 2, 2024
• How to Create a Business Plan for Launching an Ecommerce Website July 18, 2024

Topics to Explore

• Startup Ideas
• Startup Basics
• Startup Leadership
• Startup Marketing
• Startup Funding

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What is a business plan?

A business plan is a document that helps small business owners determine the viability of their business idea. Combining market research and financial analysis, a professional business plan helps startup CEOs and potential investors determine if the company can compete in the target market.

Typically, a good business plan consists of the following:

• Executive summary
• Company description
• Mission statement
• Product and services
• Marketing plan
• Operations plan
• Management organization
• Financial plan
• Conclusion & appendix

Every section involved in a business plan is designed to help startup businesses reach their target market.

A business plan asks founders and entrepreneurs to detail their business strategy in a step-by-step process that makes sense from an operational perspective. This is essential if a startup is seeking a business loan or an investment from a venture capital firm.

However, even small businesses that are already economically viable can benefit from creating a business plan, since it encourages business owners and their management teams to examine their business model and reevaluate the best ways to reach their target customers.

Should I use a business plan template?

Yes.  If you’ve never written one, a business plan can be challenging to write.

Creating a successful plan that you can use to grow your small business can require weeks of market analysis and financial preparation. You may spend time using Microsoft Excel or Powerpoint in order to create documentation which better supports our operational decisions.

However, almost every professional business plan is structured in the same way and most ask for the same information. Because of this, using a business plan template is advisable to save time, money, and effort.

Business plan templates for free

Rather than spending time trying to figure out how to write a business plan , use a free template as a guide to completion.

Business plan templates from PandaDoc can help you reach an effective go-to-market strategy even faster by asking you to provide all the relevant information you need when creating an effective business plan.

Grab a free template to get started!

Frequently asked questions

How many pages should my business plan be.

This depends on the kind of business plan you need to write and how you intend to use the plan that you create.

For example, a plan for a small business seeking potential investors or a business loan will need to provide income statements, cash flow statements, and a balance sheet (usually for a three-year or five-year forecast period).

These financial statements can be omitted if a small business owner isn’t seeking funding and is instead planning to use their business plan as a guiding document for themselves and their management team members.

Some business plans may only run a few pages. Fully-developed business plans can be as long as 50 pages. Much of this depends on the type of business, the operational strategy, and the level of detail that goes into developing the business plan.

Who needs a business plan?

Every business should have a business plan. This is an essential guidance document for any founder or CEO.

Good business plans help a company determine the viability of its place in the market and can help the business develop better strategies for differentiating itself from its competitors.

Business planning also forces business owners to evaluate their marketing strategy, the cost of customer acquisition and retention, and how they plan to grow their business over time.

What is the best business plan template?

Business plans come in all shapes and sizes. The best business plan template for your business is one that you understand and that matches the size and legal structure of your operation.

If you’re a sole proprietor, a business plan template designed for a big corporation probably doesn’t make sense. However, a business plan that helps you build an effective roadmap to grow your business while protecting your intellectual property is a good starting point.

PandaDoc offers specialized business plan templates for common industries along with tips to help you get started with business planning.

Should I hire someone to write my business plan for me?

No. You’ll find freelance writers and business strategy companies out there who are happy to write your business plan for a fee.  These resources can guide you through the process, but you should write (or be heavily involved in) the creation of your business plan.

The reason for this is simple: You know the most about your business, and your business needs you to succeed.

A writer can work with you to make your business plan sound better to investors, and a consultant can help you fill in knowledge gaps — like how to conduct a SWOT analysis — and point out weaknesses in your plan. But, at the end of the day, you need to use the business plan to pitch investors and run your business.

Those ideas and guiding principles aren’t something you can outsource.

Should I use business planning software?

Software isn’t required when creating an effective business plan. Most business planning software is designed to help you navigate the outlining and writing process more effectively.

You don’t need software to write a professional business plan, but a solid template can help you get started. Download a free template from PandaDoc today and take your business to the next level.

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BUSINESS STRATEGIES

Free business plan template for small businesses

• Amanda Bellucco Chatham
• Dec 7, 2023

Creating a successful business is about more than launching a business website or hanging a shingle on your front door. It requires a well-crafted plan that keeps you on track, anticipates obstacles and acts as a concrete roadmap for launching or improving your small business.

Business planning allows you to clarify your vision while providing information to both intrigue and reassure potential investors. The process may seem daunting, but creating a business plan isn’t difficult—and templates like the one below can help simplify the process even further.

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What is a business plan?

A business plan is used by small business owners and entrepreneurs when starting a new business venture. It’s a strategic document that outlines the goals, objectives and strategies of your new or expanding business, including the company's vision, target market, financial projections and operational plans.

A business plan can attract potential partners, convince investors and banks to help you raise capital, and serve as a resource for future growth. Most importantly, you’ll be able to use your business plan as a roadmap for how to structure, operate and manage your new venture, whether it’s a sole proprietorship, a partnership or something larger.

Who needs a business plan?

Every business owner needs a business plan. They’re an essential tool for any person or entity interested in starting a business . There are many benefits, including:

Defining your business idea

Clarifying the market and competitive landscape

Outlining your marketing strategy

Stating your value proposition

Identifying/anticipating potential risks

Seeking investments from banks and other sources

Setting benchmarks, goals and key performance indicators (KPIs)

A business plan also gives you a way to assess the viability of a business before investing too much time or money into it. While all business involves risk, taking the time to create a plan can help mitigate fallout and avoid potentially costly mistakes.

When creating a business plan, it's important to establish your business goals up front and be prepared to spend time researching the market, performing a competitor analysis and understanding your target market .

Download Wix’s free business plan template

Creating a successful business plan is no easy feat. That’s why we’ve put together a simple, customizable, and free-to-download business plan template that takes the guesswork out of getting started. Use it to create a new business plan or to refresh an existing one.

Lean startup versus traditional business plan formats

In terms of types of business plans , there are two main formats to choose from: traditional and lean.

Traditional business plan format

A traditional business plan includes every detail and component that defines a business and contributes to its success. It's typically a sizable document of about 30 to 50 pages that includes:

Executive summary: The executive summary contains a high-level overview of everything included in the plan. It generally provides a short explanation of your business and its goals (e.g., your elevator pitch ). Many authors like to write this section last after fleshing out the sections below.

Company description: A company description should include essential details like your business name, the names of your founders, your locations and your company’s mission statement . Briefly describe your core services (or products if you’re writing an eCommerce business plan ), but don't go into too much detail since you’ll elaborate on this in the service/product section. Wix offers some helpful mission statement examples if you get stuck. It’s also a good idea to create a vision statement . While your mission statement clarifies your company’s purpose, a vision statement outlines what you want your company to achieve over time.

Market analysis: One of the most extensive sections of the business plan, this section requires that you conduct market research and write your conclusions. Include findings for the following: industry background, a SWOT analysis , barriers/obstacles, target market and your business differentiators.

Organization and management: This is where you outline how your business is structured and who's in charge, including founders, executive team members, board members, employees and key stakeholders. To this end, it can be helpful to create a visual layout (e.g., org chart) to illustrate your company structure.

Service or product line: Create a detailed list of your current and future products and services. If you’re still working on your idea, create a concept statement to describe your idea or product. You should also include a proof of concept (POC), which demonstrates the feasibility of your idea. Wherever applicable, include diagrams, product images and other visual components to illustrate the product life cycle.

Marketing and sales: Detail how your business idea translates into selling and delivering your offerings to potential customers. You can start by outlining your brand identity, which includes the colors and fonts you plan to use, your marketing and advertising strategy, and details about planned consumer touchpoints (like your website, mobile app or physical storefront).

Financial projections and funding requests: Include financial statements, such as a balance sheet, profit-and-loss statement (P&L), cash flow statement and break-even analysis. It's not uncommon for a business plan to include multiple pages of financial projections and information. You’ll also want to mention how much funding you seek and what you plan to do with it. If you’ve already secured funding, provide details about your investments.

Lean startup business plan format

A lean startup business plan—also referred to as a “lean canvas”—is presented as a problem/solution framework that provides a high-level description of your business idea. A lean plan is a single-page document that provides a basic overview of the most essential aspects of your business. It’s a good way to dip a toe into business planning since it doesn't require the same level of detail as a traditional plan. This includes:

Problem: What problem does your product or service solve, or what need does it fulfill?

Solution: How do you intend to solve it?

Unique value proposition (UVP): Why should people use your product or service versus someone else’s?

Unfair advantage: What do you have that other companies don’t?

Customers: Who are your ideal customers?

Channels: How will those customers find you?

Key metrics: How do you define success? How will you track and measure it?

Revenue streams: How will your business make money?

Cost structure: What will you spend money on (fixed and variable costs)?

Benefits of a business plan template

Business plan templates offer numerous benefits for entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners. Here are some key advantages:

1. Save time and effort: Templates provide a pre-defined structure, eliminating the need to start from scratch. This frees up valuable time and effort that can be invested in other crucial aspects of business development.

2. Improve structure: Templates ensure a consistent and organized approach to presenting your business plan. This makes it easier for potential investors, lenders and advisors to understand your vision and evaluate the feasibility of your business. 3. Enhance professionalism: Using a well-designed template demonstrates professionalism and seriousness to external stakeholders. This can significantly impact their perception of your business and increase their confidence in your venture. 4. Guide your thought process: Templates act as a helpful framework, prompting you to consider all the key elements of your business plan and ensuring you haven't overlooked any critical areas. 5. Ensure completeness: Templates often include checklists and prompts to ensure you cover all essential information, minimizing the risk of missing crucial details. 6. Standardize formatting: Templates ensure a consistent and uniform appearance throughout your business plan, contributing to a more polished and professional presentation. 7. Access to expert knowledge: Many templates are developed by experienced business professionals or organizations, incorporating best practices and insights gained from successful ventures. 8. Adaptability and customization: While templates offer a basic structure, they can be easily customized to reflect the unique characteristics and needs of your specific business. 9. Cost-effectiveness: Templates are generally available for free or at a low cost, making them an accessible and budget-friendly option for entrepreneurs. 10. Increased success rate: Studies have shown that businesses with well-developed plans are more likely to succeed. Templates can help you create a comprehensive and persuasive plan, increasing your chances of securing funding and achieving your business goals.

Tips for filling out your business plan template

The hardest part of a journey is always the first step, or so the saying goes. Filling out your business plan template can be daunting, but the template itself is meant to get you over that crucial first hurdle—getting started. We’ve provided some tips aimed at helping you get the most from our template.

These are best practices—they’re not rules. Do what works for you. The main thing to remember is that these tips can help you move more easily through the planning process, so that you can advance onto the next (exciting) step, which is launching your business.

Consider your goals: What is the purpose of your business? Are you looking to expand, launch a new product line or fund a specific project? Identifying your goals helps you prioritize important information in your business plan.

Fill out what you can: You may already have a vague—or specific—idea of what you want your business to achieve. Go through each section of the template and fill out what you can. We suggest leaving the executive summary blank for now, since it'll be the last thing you write.

Be realistic: Even though this document is meant to serve as a marketing tool for potential investors, don't exaggerate any numbers or make any false promises.

Dig into the research: Nothing's more motivating than getting some intel about your competitors and your market. If you're truly stuck, a little research can help motivate you and provide valuable insight about what direction to take your business. For example, if you plan to start a landscaping business, learn about the specific pricing offered in your area so that you can differentiate your services and potentially offer better options.

Get help from others: Bouncing your ideas off a friend, mentor or advisor is a great way to get feedback and discover approaches or products to incorporate into your plan. Your network can also give you valuable insight about the industry or even about potential customers. Plus, it's nice to be able to talk through the challenges with someone who understands you and your vision.

Revise and review: Once complete, step back from your plan and let it "cook." In a day or two, review your plan and make sure that everything is current. Have other people review it too, since having another set of eyes can help identify areas that may be lacking detail or need further explanation.

Once you’ve completed your business plan template, it can become a meaningful resource for developing your mission statement, writing business proposals and planning how to move forward with the marketing, distribution and growth of your products and services.

After launch, you can also analyze your value chain to identify key factors that create value for your customers and maximum profitability for you. This can help you develop a more effective business plan that considers the entire value chain, from research and development to sales and customer support.

Business plan template FAQ

What is the easiest way to write a business plan.

The easiest way to write a business plan is to utilize a template. Templates provide a structured format and guide you through each section, simplifying the process of creating a comprehensive plan.

Is there a template for how to write a business plan?

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Business Plan Template

This free business plan template highlights the steps required for a successful launch. Write down your vision and mission, summarize market analysis results, and more.

Discover who you are

Your product or service reflects who you are. This business plan template prompts you to identify your vision and mission, so you can get started with a full understanding of why you’re building this business.

Analyze your target audience

Market analysis is an important beginning step for any entrepreneur. This startup business plan includes prompts to identify your target market, what problem of theirs you're solving, and who else is competing for their attention.

Keep up with finances

Managing your business’s money is vital to your success. This simple template helps you track costs, revenue, funding, and more all in one place, so you have immediate insight into your bottom line.

Conduct a SWOT analysis

Use this business plan template to document your business’s internal strengths and weaknesses as well as the external opportunities and threats. You can then use your analysis to better develop strategies to achieve your goals.

Perfect for small businesses, startups, and non-profits

Whether you’re building a nonprofit or a business empire, you’ll benefit from a comprehensive business plan. Our free and simple business plan template enables you to easily oversee and communicate where your business is going.

Celebrate key milestones

Launching a business successfully includes many milestones. If you’re aiming for a certain revenue goal, a specific market penetration, or a new product development, you can track and celebrate when you hit these milestones with this business plan template.

Measure to succeed

Tracking success metrics helps you know if your business is thriving. Without metrics, you could be failing and not even realize it. This business plan template includes areas to identify how you’ll measure success.

Powerful business plan templates

Plan for the future, no matter what your business plans are or the size of your business with these designs and templates. whether it's just one big project or an entire organization's worth of dreams, these templates will keep you and your company on track from ideation to completion..

Put your ideas to work with simple templates for every business plan

Every successful business took a lot of planning to get there, and these templates will be cornerstones of your future success. Whether you're looking to attract new business, pitch your services or reimagine your company, with these simple, customizable templates at your fingertips you can turn complexity into something tangible. These templates can become marketing assets or simply remain internal touchpoints for your team. And as your dreams change, you'll always have this template to refer to – it's easy to change what exists on paper. If you're a small business, focusing on your niche can help you dominate in your field, and you can forge a plan to figure out exactly what that niche might be and how to target your ideal customer . When it's time to share your vision with stakeholders, craft a presentation that outlines your plan succinctly and with style. Let these templates from Microsoft Designer be your partner in business strategy for years to come.

Original text

Do you want to increase the odds that your business startup will be a success? Download this step-by-step business plan template to lay the groundwork for your new business.

Writing a business plan allows you to carefully think through every step of starting your company so you can better prepare and handle any challenges. While a thorough business plan is essential in the financing process, it's helpful even if you don’t need outside financing.

Creating a business plan can:

• Help you discover any weaknesses in your business idea so you can address them before you open for business
• Identify business opportunities you may not have considered and plan how to take advantage of them
• Analyze the market and competition to strengthen your idea
• Give you a chance to plan strategies for dealing with potential challenges so they don’t derail your startup
• Convince potential partners, customers, and key employees that you’re serious about your idea and persuade them to work with you
• Force you to calculate when your business will make a profit and how much money you need to reach that point so that you can be prepared with adequate startup capital
• Determine your target market and how to reach them

A detailed, step-by-step plan gives you a blueprint you can refer to during the startup process and helps you maintain momentum.

What this business plan template includes

Writing a business plan for a startup can sometimes seem overwhelming. To make the process easier and more manageable, this template will guide you step-by-step. The template includes easy-to-follow instructions for completing each business plan section, questions to help you think through each aspect, and corresponding fillable worksheet/s for critical sections.

After you complete the 11 worksheets, you will have a working business plan for your startup to show your SCORE mentor .

Business plan sections covered in this template:

• Executive Summary
• Company Description
• Products and Services
• Marketing Plan
• Operational Plan
• Management and Organization
• Startup Expenses and Capitalization
• Financial Plan

The Appendices include documents that supplement information in the body of the plan.  These might be contracts, leases, purchase orders, intellectual property, key managers’ resumes, market research data or anything that supports assumptions or statements made in the plan.

The last section of the template, “Refining Your Plan,” explains ways to modify your plan for specific purposes, such as getting a bank loan, or for specific industries, such as retail or manufacturing.

Complete the Business Plan Template for a Startup Business to create a working business plan for your startup.

Then, contact a  SCORE mentor  to review and refine your plan online or in person.

Quick Start Business Plan The aim of this module is to give you the tools, direction and ideas you need to build a business plan. If you're starting a business then a business plan is essential, because it forces you to think through your ideas and options.

10 Business Planning Tips for Starting a Business In this webinar, you'll learn 10 business planning tips to help you start your entrepreneurial journey on the right path.

Business Plan 101: Sales & Marketing The sales and marketing section of your business plan describes how you intend to sell your product. Learn what you should include in this section.

Copyright © 2024 SCORE Association, SCORE.org

Funded, in part, through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, and/or recommendations expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the SBA.

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Free business plan templates and examples for your startup

You are starting a new business.

Huge plunge.

But you don’t want to just “start a new business” and call it a day. Nope. You want to start a new successful business … which is going to require a well-thought-out business plan … which requires a (free) business plan template, of course.

The ever-essential business plan around your proposed startup business should include every nitty-gritty detail, from the company description to your target market and financial projections .

Sounds like a lot, right? It is. Writing a plan for your business from scratch can be overwhelming, especially if you’ve never done it before.

But alas, that’s where a free business plan template can be a life-saver.

This article will provide a step-by-step guide for creating a plan using one of our free business plan templates. Because at monday.com, we want you — and your new venture — to succeed.

Get the template

What is a free business plan template?

A free business plan template is a document that outlines every critical aspect that should go into your business plan — and you don’t have to pay anything for it. It guides you and makes it easy to focus on necessary components without going overboard and including too much information.

A good template should cover each stage of managing and starting a business. This means your template should act as a step by step guide on how to include the following information:

• Your business’ core activities
• Its goals and objectives
• How it plans to achieve these goals

Because business plans are an essential component of any organization’s operational roadmap, a template is a must-have tool for all entrepreneurs and startup business owners. 

Writing a complete business plan is key to documenting business models , creating accurate financial projections, and turning your business idea into reality.

Why use a free business plan template?

Creating a business plan with a free template might not sound like much, but it can lead to a more successful business. Here’s are 6 reasons why:

1. Helps secure funding

You can’t apply for financing proposals without a formal business plan. Using the correct format from a professional template is vital to show all parties of interest, including investors and financial institutions, that you are committed to building and growing your enterprise.

Investors will carefully review your business plan before agreeing to meet you in person, let alone write you a check.

2. Makes business plan look more professional

Creating a business plan from a template shows that you are serious about your business.

3. Gives business direction

Drawing up a step by step business model provides you with a roadmap for future operations and times of doubt. Without a concise business plan template, you may constantly change your strategies and goals without bearing your long-term milestones in mind.

Using a template gives you direction and ensures that every choice you make furthers your business’s ultimate goals and objectives.

4. Helps establish important milestones

A template will help you identify the long-term milestones that are important for the success of your venture. Setting milestones from the beginning can help you determine if your business is on the right track.

5. Helps assess the feasibility of the venture

Not all business plans translate into thriving real-world businesses. Using a business plan template helps you determine how viable your business plan is while minimizing opportunity costs. It also encourages you to research target markets and your competitive landscape.

6. It’s FREE

This might be obvious, but it’s still important. Creating a business plan can be a time-consuming, expensive process. Hiring a professional business consultant for your business plan will cost, on average, $399 .

You don’t have to spend money outsourcing a business plan writing service with a free business plan template. Instead, invest those funds elsewhere in your startup business.

What are some examples of free business plan templates?

There are different types of business plan templates to choose from depending on your type of business and reason for writing a business plan.

Here are some sample business plans based on different templates.

Startup business plan template

A startup business plan is like a standard business plan; only this document is written specifically for a startup business. It is often presented to potential investors to obtain startup funding.

( Image Source )

Startup plans are preliminary plans that can be tweaked as the firm grows. These documents include information like the idea for the business, a description of the product or service, a marketing plan, and profit projections.

Strategic business plan template

Strategic business plans outline the strategies that a business will use to achieve its goals.

These plans are generally for internal purposes and are based on a SWOT analysis . This plan should outline how specific strategies will move the company toward its milestones and allocate resources.

One-page business plan template

A one-page business plan is a simplified version of a standard business plan. It is a single-page document that focuses on the core aspects of your business.

This template doesn’t include descriptions, summaries, and background details. Although concise, it still contains all the necessary information, including the business model, financial projections, and target market .

Operational plan template

A template for an operational plan , also known as an annual plan, focuses on sketching out the day-to-day operational actions a team needs to take to reach significant goals. It outlines the duties and responsibilities of the management team, various departments, and staff and how they should contribute to its overall success.

7 elements of a business plan

A traditional business plan template should include these essential sections.

1. Executive summary

This should be the first section of your business plan. The executive summary covers what you expect your business to achieve and highlights what you will discuss in the remainder of your plan.

2. Company description

Your company description should include important information about your business, goals, and target audiences. Use this section to explain your core offerings for customers and how your business stands out from its rivals.

3. Product or service offered

This section should include a detailed breakdown of your products and services and how they have been tailored to meet current demands. Some other information to include is:

• Your suppliers
• The cost of manufacturing your products
• Your projected profit margins
• Any relevant information about copyrights and patents

4. Target market analysis

Your target market analysis should visualize your target customers and their purchasing habits and demands. Use this section to show that you have a solid understanding of your industry and target audiences.

5. Marketing plan

The marketing plan section of your business plan should describe how you plan to reach your target customers with your core marketing messages, as well as your products and services. Detail the steps you need to promote your products, including your budget and marketing strategies.

6. Competitive analysis

This section should compare your business to your direct and indirect industry rivals. Speak about what your competitors are doing and if they are failing or succeeding. Mention any issues that could impact your entry into the market here.

7. Financial projections

This section should break down your financial goals and projections that you’ve calculated using market research. Include your anticipated revenues for your first year of operation. It’s good to include an appendix with additional financial data (financial statements) if you’re using your plan to apply for business loans.

And of course … monday.com’s free business plan template

Old-fashioned business plans made in a spreadsheet or word processor are static and easy to forget.

monday.com’s comprehensive business plan templates make drawing concise business plans and financial projections a breeze.

Here are some of the many ways our business plan template will help you communicate your vision and strategy:

Seamlessly share your business plan

Besides financial investors, other invested parties will want to see your business plan — usually referred to as stakeholders —business partners, employees, bankers, suppliers, customers, consultants, and even friends and family.

Rather than back and forth emails, make your business plan accessible to whoever you want with our “share view” options. Easily create and send a shareable link to your business plan. Or send out a read-only version to ensure no one makes any unwanted edits.

Hide certain information

Maybe you don’t want everyone to know your startup business’ financial projections. We get it. Planning the financial aspects of a startup business is tricky.

With monday.com’s template , you can hide certain business plan sections by hiding columns or using Board Filters. 

Once you’ve excluded any sensitive information from your business plan, you can save this new view of your business plan to be easily accessible later. In addition, by creating a view according to the exact parameters you want to see, you won’t have to keep editing your business plan according to what information you want to have displayed.

Transform your business plan into action

You’ve written a stellar business model, got the funding you need, and are officially starting a business. So what happens to all that hard work you did for your business plan?

monday.com helps you execute your business plan by turning it into actionable tasks. Our platform lets you centralize all your work, tools, processes, and files, including your business plan and associated data, into a single Work OS .

Build your ideal workflow by turning your business plan into a project timeline, budget template , or marketing strategy. Have access to all of the documentation you need instantly in one convenient location, maximizing your productivity and organization.

FAQs about business plan templates

How do i write a simple business plan.

monday.com’s business plan template gives you all the tools you need to write both simple and more complex business plans.

Should you use a template for a business plan?

Yes! A business plan template will give your plan structure and ensure that you can secure funding and guide your business’s growth.

What is the best format for a business plan?

A template provides the best format for a business plan, as it breaks down all the essential information you need to include. Find all the business plan templates you need at monday.com.

Who should develop business plans?

Any new business owner (or someone aspiring to start or acquire a business) should develop a business plan.

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How to Craft a Winning Business Plan for Your Startup Company

Mackenzie Carter

Published on Aug 07, 2024, updated on Aug 08, 2024

Starting a new business is an exciting journey, but without a well-crafted business plan, your startup may struggle to find its footing. A solid business plan for start up company serves as a roadmap, guiding your decisions and helping to secure funding. In this article, we will explore the key elements of a successful business plan, discuss the importance of using the right business plan software, and how tools like Boardmix can simplify the process.

Why is a Business Plan Crucial for a Startup Company?

A business plan for start up company is essential for a startup company for several reasons:

Strategic Direction : It provides a clear vision and strategic direction, helping you stay focused on your goals.

Funding and Investment : Investors and lenders often require a detailed business plan before they will provide capital. It demonstrates your commitment and the viability of your business.

Operational Guide : A well-drafted business plan serves as a guide for your daily operations, helping you allocate resources effectively and make informed decisions.

Risk Management : Identifying potential risks and challenges in advance allows you to develop strategies to mitigate them.

For a startup, a business plan for start up company is not just a document; it's a tool that shapes your business's future, making it crucial to spend time crafting a thorough plan.

What Should Be Included in Your Startup Business Plan?

Creating a comprehensive business plan for a start up company involves including the following key sections:

Executive Summary : This is a snapshot of your business, highlighting your mission statement, product or service, and basic information about your company’s leadership, employees, and location.

Company Description : Provide detailed information about your company, including the problems your business solves, your target market, and the competitive landscape.

Market Analysis : Research your industry, market size, and expected growth. Identify your target audience and analyze competitors.

Organization and Management : Outline your business’s organizational structure, including details about the ownership, management team, and board of directors.

Product Line or Services : Describe the products or services you offer, their life cycle, and your plans for research and development.

Marketing and Sales Strategy : Discuss your strategies for attracting and retaining customers, as well as your sales process.

Funding Request : If you are seeking funding, include your funding requirements, potential future funding requirements, and how you plan to use the funds.

Financial Projections : Provide financial forecasts for the next three to five years, including income statements, cash flow statements, and balance sheets.

Appendix : This section includes additional information like resumes, permits, lease agreements, and any other relevant documents.

Incorporating these elements into your business plan for startup company ensures that all critical aspects are covered, making it a comprehensive tool for guiding your business.

How to Choose the Right Business Plan Software?

Choosing the right business plan software is essential for simplifying the process of creating a comprehensive and professional business plan for start up company. Here's how to evaluate your options:

Evaluating 5 Business Plan Software Options

Boardmix stands out as an all-in-one solution, offering a versatile platform not only for business planning but also for team collaboration. Its intuitive interface and customizable templates make it ideal for startups looking to build a plan from scratch or adapt an existing one.

Known for its user-friendly interface and robust features, LivePlan offers step-by-step instructions and hundreds of business plan templates. It also provides financial forecasting tools, which are crucial for startups looking to project future growth.

Bizplan offers a drag-and-drop builder, making it easy to create a plan without prior experience. It integrates with financial tools and allows real-time collaboration, making it ideal for team-based startups.

Enloop automates the writing process with a focus on financial projections. It generates a performance score for your plan, helping you improve weak areas before finalizing it.

PlanGuru specializes in financial forecasting, budgeting, and performance review. It is particularly useful for startups that need to delve deep into financial analytics.

Features to Look for in Business Plan Software

When choosing business plan software, consider the following features:

User-Friendly Interface : The software should be easy to navigate, with a clean and intuitive design.

Customizable Templates : Look for a variety of start up business plan templates that can be customized to fit your specific needs.

Financial Forecasting Tools : These tools are crucial for creating accurate financial projections, which are often required by investors and lenders.

Collaboration Capabilities : The ability to collaborate in real-time with team members can streamline the planning process and ensure that everyone is on the same page.

Integration with Other Tools : Seamless integration with tools like accounting software, CRMs, and project management systems can enhance efficiency.

Customer Support and Resources : Reliable customer support and a wealth of resources like tutorials and guides can help you get the most out of your business plan software.

By evaluating these factors, you can choose the right business plan software that will streamline the process and help you create a robust plan for your startup.

How Can Boardmix Help You Build Your Business Plan?

Boardmix is a versatile tool that can revolutionize the way you approach business planning. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use Boardmix to build your business plan for start up company:

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Business Plan with Boardmix

Start with a Template : Boardmix offers a variety of customizable start up business plan templates. Choose a template that fits your business type and industry, and use it as a starting point.

Customize the Template : Tailor the template to your needs by adding or removing sections. Boardmix’s drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to rearrange elements and add custom content.

Collaborate with Your Team : Invite team members to collaborate in real-time. Boardmix allows you to assign tasks, leave comments, and track changes, ensuring that everyone is aligned and contributing to the plan.

Incorporate Financial Projections : Use Boardmix’s integration with financial tools to input your financial data. Boardmix supports the insertion of documents in a variety of formats, including pdf, word, excel, etc.

Refine Your Plan with Visual Tools : Enhance your business plan for start up company with visuals like flowcharts, graphs, and diagrams. Boardmix’s whiteboard features allow you to brainstorm ideas and visually organize your plan.

Finalize and Export : Once your plan is complete, use Boardmix to export it in various formats, including PDF and png. You can also use the Boardmix AI feature to convert the plan into presentation form for easier presentation. This flexibility ensures that you can present your business plan in the most effective way possible.

Use Templates for Start up Business Plan

One of the key advantages of using Boardmix is its extensive library of start up business plan templates. These templates are designed to meet the needs of various industries and business types, providing a solid foundation for your plan. By starting with a template, you can save time and ensure that all essential components are included in your plan.

By following the above steps, Boardmix can help you create a professional, comprehensive business plan that is tailored to your startup's needs.

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Startup Business Plan?

Creating a business plan for start up company can be challenging, and it's easy to make mistakes that could hinder your success. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Lack of Research : Insufficient market research can lead to unrealistic assumptions about your target audience and competition. Make sure to back up your plan with solid data.

Overly Optimistic Projections : While it's important to be positive, overly optimistic financial projections can raise red flags with investors. Aim for realistic and attainable goals.

Ignoring Potential Risks : Failing to identify and plan for potential risks can leave your business vulnerable. Address potential challenges and outline strategies to mitigate them.

Inconsistent or Vague Information : Ensure that your business plan for start up company is consistent, clear, and free of contradictions. Vague information can confuse readers and weaken your plan.

Neglecting the Executive Summary : The executive summary is often the first section investors read, so it should be compelling and concise. Don't neglect this crucial part of your business plan.

Crafting a winning business plan for your startup company is a critical step in your entrepreneurial journey. By understanding what to include in your plan, choosing the right business plan software, and leveraging tools like Boardmix , you can create a comprehensive and professional plan that will set your startup on the path to success. Remember to avoid common mistakes, stay realistic in your projections, and continuously refine your plan as your business evolves. With the right approach and tools, your business plan for start up company can become a powerful tool for achieving your startup's goals.

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How To Start A Business With No Ideas

Published: Aug 16, 2024, 8:25am

Table of Contents

Embracing the challenge of having no business idea, how to start a business with no ideas, how to come up with a business idea, validating your business idea, planning your business, bottom line, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Many aspiring entrepreneurs feel overwhelmed by the challenge of pinpointing a winning business concept. Fortunately, if you want to start a business but have no ideas, you’re not at a dead end. In this article, you will learn:

• Steps to take when you’re idea-less
• How to inspire or generate business ideas
• Essential actions for future business owners, regardless of the business type

Let’s embark on a journey to unlock your entrepreneurial potential, even when starting from scratch.

The path to entrepreneurship often begins with a spark—an idea that ignites passion and ambition. However, what if the spark hasn’t ignited for you yet? The initial challenge of not having a clear business idea can feel daunting, creating a mix of uncertainty and aspiration.

This phase, while frustrating, is a critical part of the entrepreneurial process. Turn it into a period for introspection, assessing your strengths, weaknesses and the value you wish to bring to the market. And remember that this challenge is not unique to you. Many successful entrepreneurs began their journeys without a clear idea, only to discover their path through exploration and self-reflection.

The key is not to rush the process but to embrace it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Your willingness to start a business , even without a specific idea, demonstrates a readiness for entrepreneurship. This readiness is the first step towards developing an open, curious and resilient mindset—qualities essential for any successful business owner.

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Whether you have the final business idea or not, start with foundational steps that are crucial for any business idea. These preparatory actions lay the groundwork for successful business ownership, irrespective of the industry or niche you eventually choose.

Start Market Research Basics

Understanding the market is vital. Begin with broad research to identify trends, demands and potential gaps. This foundational knowledge helps in aligning your future business idea with what consumers need or lack.

Determine Strengths and Interests

An introspective look at your own strengths and interests can guide you toward a business that not only is viable but also fulfilling. Reflect on what you’re good at and passionate about; taking these as starting points often leads to sustainable business ideas.

Build a Network

Having an engaged network is indispensable. Start by connecting with industry professionals, potential mentors and peers. They can provide invaluable insights, support and opportunities. You need to start building these relationships early on, even before your business idea is fully formed.

Perform Financial Planning and Budgeting

Financial readiness is another cornerstone of a successful business idea. Develop a clear understanding of your financial situation and the resources you can allocate to your business venture. This early financial planning prevents future overextension and lays a stable foundation for growth.

Generating business ideas is a dynamic process that combines introspection, observation and research. Even without a specific concept in mind, there are systematic approaches you can use to spark inspiration and uncover potential business ideas.

Identify Problems To Solve

Look around you; every successful business solves a problem. Reflect on your daily experiences and the challenges faced by people in your community or industry. Solving a common problem can be the basis of a lucrative business idea.

Leverage Personal Passions or Hobbies

Your hobbies and passions are fertile ground for business ideas. Whether it’s crafting, technology, fitness or anything in between, businesses born from personal interests often lead to fulfilling, passionate and long-term entrepreneurship.

Explore Current Market Trends and Gaps

Staying informed about current trends and market gaps can reveal opportunities. Use industry reports, news articles and market analysis tools to identify what’s in demand and where there’s room for innovation.

Use Tools and Resources for Idea Inspiration

Utilize online tools and platforms such as Google Trends, social media listening tools and competitor analysis software to gather insights about potential business niches. Networking events and workshops can also be excellent sources of inspiration and feedback.

Validation aims to confirm market demand for your idea before fully committing resources, thereby reducing risk and increasing the likelihood of success. Here’s a suggested streamlined approach to consider:

Conduct Market Research

Deepen your initial market research to focus specifically on your business idea. Look into your target audience’s needs, preferences and buying behaviors. Surveys, focus groups and interviews can provide direct feedback and insights into the viability of your idea.

Create a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)

Develop an MVP—a simplified version of your product or service designed to test its appeal in the real market. The MVP approach allows you to gather user feedback with minimal investment, providing early indicators of potential success or necessary adjustments.

Seek Feedback From Potential Customers

Engage with potential customers to get their thoughts on your MVP or business concept. Use social media, online forums or direct outreach to connect with your target audience. Honest feedback at this stage is invaluable for refining your idea.

After validating your idea, the next phase involves strategic planning to outline the path forward. Effective planning not only provides a clear direction for your business but also enhances your ability to secure funding and attract partners or investors. Here are a few critical aspects to include while planning:

• Business Plan Basics : Start with a simple business plan that outlines your vision, mission, target market, competitive advantage and financial projections. This document will serve as your roadmap and can evolve over time.
• Legal Considerations : Understand the legal requirements for starting a business, including registering your business name, obtaining necessary licenses or permits, and choosing a business structure that suits your needs (e.g., sole proprietorship or LLC ).
• Setting Goals and Milestones : Establish clear, measurable goals and milestones for your business. This will help you track progress, prioritize tasks and stay focused on key objectives.

Starting a business without a predefined idea might initially seem like a hurdle, but it’s a unique opportunity to start a venture that truly resonates with your passions and the market’s needs. This guide has equipped you with the foundational steps and grounding for your entrepreneurial aspirations, strategies to spark and validate business ideas and the importance of an iterative approach in refining these concepts.

Wherever you are in your entrepreneurial journey, the key is to keep moving forward. Engage with the process of discovery, embrace learning and allow your business vision to evolve. The path to entrepreneurship is as unique as you are—start with curiosity, proceed with research and let your passion guide you to your next great venture.

What if I start a business and then discover it's not the right fit for me?

It’s perfectly normal to pivot or change direction in the early stages of starting a business. Use this as a learning experience to refine your business model or explore new ideas that align better with your interests and market needs.

How much money do I need to start a business if I don't have an idea yet?

Initial costs to start a business can vary widely depending on the business type and scale. Start by budgeting for market research, potential legal fees for business registration and operational costs. It’s wise to keep expenses low until you’ve validated your business idea.

What business can I start with no skills?

If you’re looking to start a business without specific skills, consider dropshipping , which allows you to sell products online without handling inventory. Alternatively, service-based businesses such as cleaning, errand running, dog walking or personal assistance don’t require specialized skills, just reliability and a strong work ethic. You can also explore content creation through blogs, YouTube channels or podcasts on subjects you’re passionate about, learning and building skills along the way.

Can I start a business while working a full-time job?

Yes, many entrepreneurs start their businesses as side projects while maintaining their full-time jobs. This approach allows you to test your business idea and build it gradually with less financial pressure. Time management and prioritization are key to balancing both commitments.

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Our Free Editable and Printable Construction Templates are your best option when you need to spice up your business venture like putting up flyers, online posts, stationary, websites, and many more. Our ever-expanding template library includes samples not just for construction, but for a wide array of other businesses too like fashion, hotel, startup and small businesses. Simply choose from multiple types of designs, or come up with your own. Yes, you can absolutely do that. With our user-friendly and convenient built-in editor tool, you can pick out, edit, change, alter, and modify certain design elements of your chosen template to fit whatever you may need. All you have to do is use our drag-and-drop function to replace stock images, add vectors, illustrations, change background colors, even add your chosen layouts. You can also adjust your fonts and text styles, borders, headings, as well as the overall content. Then save your chosen and edited design in our wide array of available file formats.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the initial steps to start a construction business.

Initiating a construction business in the US necessitates compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, obtaining the right licenses, and securing adequate insurance. It's also essential to develop relationships with suppliers, subcontractors, and potential clients. Formulating a robust business strategy is the backbone of this venture. Leveraging ready-made business templates can accelerate the setup process and ensure compliance from the outset.

How do graphic design elements influence client perceptions in construction proposals?

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What factors should be considered when setting long-term goals in a construction business plan?

When setting long-term goals, consider market trends, emerging technologies, sustainability practices, and anticipated industry growth. It's also pivotal to evaluate company strengths, potential risks, and competitive positioning. Using a business template can provide a structured approach to integrate these factors into a strategic business plan.

How do construction-specific accounting practices differ from traditional accounting?

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What challenges are unique to human resource management in the construction industry?

The construction industry faces HR challenges such as high employee turnover, seasonality of work, diverse skill sets for different projects, and the need for continuous training due to evolving safety standards and technologies. Implementing specialized HR templates can help address these unique challenges effectively.

How do technological advancements impact construction administration?

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What are common legal disputes in the construction industry, and how can they be mitigated?

Common disputes involve contract breaches, delays, payment issues, and construction defects. To mitigate these, clear contracts, comprehensive documentation, regular communication, and proactive issue resolution are vital. Employing business templates can aid in drafting clear contracts and maintaining meticulous records to prevent potential disputes.

How can effective procurement strategies lead to cost savings in construction projects?

Effective procurement involves strategic vendor selection, bulk purchasing discounts, early supplier involvement for design feedback, and efficient inventory management. These practices can lead to reduced material costs, timely deliveries, and minimized wastage. Utilizing procurement templates can help in devising and executing cost-effective purchasing strategies.

What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor in construction project and operations management?

Key KPIs include project completion timelines, budget adherence, safety incident rates, quality benchmarks, and stakeholder satisfaction levels. Monitoring these KPIs ensures projects are on track and any deviations are promptly addressed. Business templates tailored for construction can help consistently track these KPIs and gauge project performance.

Which practices can be adopted to foster a safety-first culture in construction sites?

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How can a construction company differentiate itself in a competitive market through its sales and marketing strategies?

Emphasizing unique selling points, showcasing a portfolio of successful projects, leveraging client testimonials, and adopting digital marketing techniques can set a company apart. Tailored sales pitches and understanding client-specific needs are also crucial. Using specialized sales and marketing templates, construction firms can craft compelling narratives that resonate with potential clients.

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Brewery business plan templates and examples [Free and paid]

• Published on August 16, 2024
• by Oguzhan Uyar
• Last updated: 3 days ago

Securing funding for your brewery dream in 2024? It all starts with a rock-solid business plan.

But where do you begin? How do you make your plan stand out from the crowd and convince investors to take a chance on your sudsy vision?

Fear not, aspiring brewery owner. We’ve got you covered with 7 brewery business plan templates that will help you navigate the planning process and impress potential funders.

From crafting a compelling executive summary to nailing your financial projections, these templates will guide you every step of the way.

So grab a cold one, and let’s dive into creating a business plan that will make your brewery dreams a reality.

Brewery Business Plan Templates: Key Elements for Success

Creating a comprehensive and compelling business plan is crucial for any aspiring brewery owner seeking to secure funding and establish a successful venture. By incorporating key elements and following a structured template, you can effectively communicate your brewery’s unique value proposition, target market, and growth potential to investors and stakeholders. Learn how to craft an effective plan for your brewery business , ensuring your vision comes to life by understanding what constitutes an impactful brewery business plan.

Executive Summary: Your Brewery’s Unique Value Proposition

The executive summary is the first and most critical section of your brewery business plan. It should provide a concise overview of your brewery’s mission, goals, and unique selling points. This section is your opportunity to capture the attention of potential investors and convince them to read further. Interested in structuring an effective brewery business plan? Learn how to craft a compelling executive summary and other key components for success.

Crafting a Compelling Overview

Begin by stating your brewery’s mission statement, which should encapsulate your core values and long-term objectives. Highlight your brewery’s unique selling points, such as your focus on locally sourced ingredients, innovative brewing techniques, or commitment to sustainability. Clearly define your target market, including demographics, preferences, and buying habits.

Summarizing Financial Projections and Funding Requirements

Provide a brief summary of your financial projections, including revenue, expenses, and profitability over the next 3-5 years. Clearly state your funding requirements and how you plan to allocate the funds to support your brewery’s growth and operations.

TIP: Ensure that your financial projections are realistic and well-researched. Consider using industry benchmarks and consulting with financial experts to validate your assumptions.

Company Description: Showcasing Your Brewery’s Identity

The company description section should provide a detailed overview of your brewery’s history, ownership structure, and physical location. This section helps investors understand your brewery’s background and sets the stage for your future growth plans.

Detailing Your Brewery’s History and Ownership

Begin by outlining your brewery’s history, including when and how it was founded, as well as any significant milestones or achievements. Provide information about the ownership structure, including the names and backgrounds of the key stakeholders and their roles within the company. Eager to ensure your brewery becomes a financial success ? Make sure to revisit and refine your business plan regularly to stay aligned with your profitability goals.

Describing Your Brewery’s Location and Facilities

Provide a detailed description of your brewery’s physical location, including the size of the facility, production capacity, and any unique features or amenities. Discuss the advantages of your location, such as proximity to key suppliers, distribution channels, or a thriving craft beer scene.

TIP: Include images or floor plans of your brewery to help investors visualize your facility and production capabilities.

Showcasing Your Brewery’s Core Values and Brand Personality

Discuss your brewery’s core values and how they shape your brand identity and company culture. Describe your brand personality, including the tone, voice, and visual elements that set your brewery apart from competitors. Outline your vision for growth, including plans for expansion, new product lines, or distribution strategies.

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Crafting a Winning Brewery Business Plan Outline

Creating a well-structured and engaging business plan outline is crucial for securing funding and guiding your brewery’s growth. A winning outline should cover all essential aspects of your business, from market analysis to financial projections, while being easy to navigate and compelling to potential investors.

Market Analysis: Understanding Your Target Audience and Competition

Conducting thorough market research is the foundation of a solid business plan. Start by identifying your target audience, including their demographics, preferences, and buying habits. Analyze consumer trends in the craft beer industry, such as the growing demand for unique flavors and local offerings.

Next, evaluate your competition at both local and regional levels. Identify their strengths and weaknesses, and look for opportunities to differentiate your brewery. Consider factors such as their product offerings, pricing, taproom experience, and distribution reach.

Conducting Market Research

Survey potential customers to gather insights on their preferences and expectations

Attend local beer festivals and events to observe consumer behavior and trends

Analyze sales data and market reports from industry associations and research firms, such as the Craft Beer Market Research Report by IBISWorld

Check what a detailed Market Analysis can bring to the table wth this template

Product Line and Services: Showcasing Your Brewery’s Offerings

Your product line is the heart of your brewery business plan. Describe your core beer styles, seasonal offerings, and any limited-edition or experimental brews. Highlight the unique aspects of your products, such as locally-sourced ingredients, innovative brewing techniques, or eye-catching packaging.

In addition to your beer offerings, outline any additional services or experiences your brewery provides. This may include a taproom, beer garden, or event space. Describe how these services contribute to your brand identity and customer loyalty.

Marketing and Sales Strategy: Reaching and Engaging Your Target Audience

A comprehensive marketing and sales strategy is essential for attracting customers and driving revenue. Develop a strong brand identity that reflects your brewery’s unique personality and values. Create a marketing plan that includes tactics such as social media campaigns, email marketing, and partnerships with local businesses or events.

Your sales strategy should outline your distribution channels, pricing structure, and sales targets. Consider the balance between on-premise sales (taproom) and off-premise sales (retail distribution). Establish relationships with local bars, restaurants, and liquor stores to expand your reach.

Building Your Brand

Design a memorable logo and packaging that stands out on shelves and social media

Develop a consistent brand voice and messaging across all marketing channels

Engage with your audience through storytelling, behind-the-scenes content, and user-generated content, as seen in successful campaigns by breweries like Stone Brewing

By crafting a detailed and compelling business plan outline, you’ll be well-equipped to secure funding and guide your brewery’s growth. Remember to keep your plan concise, visually appealing, and easy to navigate for potential investors and partners.

Mastering Brewery Business Plan Financials

Startup costs and funding requirements: planning for success.

Crafting a detailed breakdown of your brewery’s startup costs is crucial for securing funding and ensuring a smooth launch. Begin by listing all the necessary equipment, such as brewing systems, fermentation tanks, and packaging machinery. Include the costs of any facility improvements or renovations required to accommodate your brewery’s operations. Don’t forget to account for inventory expenses, including raw materials like hops, malt, and yeast.

Developing a Funding Strategy

Once you have a clear understanding of your startup costs, outline your funding requirements and sources. Determine how much personal investment you can contribute and explore additional options, such as business loans or attracting investors. Be realistic about the amount of funding you need and the timeline for securing it.

Average Rates: According to the Nerd Wallet , the average interest rate for business loans range from 6.14% to 12.47% as of July 2024.

Creating a Launch Timeline

Develop a detailed timeline that outlines the steps from securing funding to launching your brewery. Include milestones such as equipment installation, facility preparation, and obtaining necessary licenses and permits. This timeline will help you stay on track and demonstrate to potential investors that you have a well-thought-out plan.

This template will ensure you’re on track for your launch

Financial Projections: Forecasting Your Brewery’s Growth and Profitability

To showcase your brewery’s potential, create a 3-5 year financial projection that includes revenue, expenses, and cash flow. Start by estimating your production capacity and expected sales volume based on market research and competitor analysis. Factor in the costs of raw materials, labor, utilities, and other operating expenses. Use this information to generate projected income statements and cash flow statements.

Identifying Key Assumptions and Drivers

Be transparent about the key assumptions and drivers behind your financial projections. Explain how factors such as production efficiency, pricing strategy, and distribution channels impact your revenue and expenses. Identify potential risks and challenges that could affect your projections, and outline strategies for mitigating these risks. Industry benchmarks suggest that breweries with efficient production processes can reduce costs by up to 15%.

Scenario Planning for Financial Resilience

To demonstrate your brewery’s financial resilience, develop best-case, worst-case, and realistic scenarios. The best-case scenario should showcase your brewery’s potential for rapid growth and profitability, while the worst-case scenario should address potential challenges and how you plan to overcome them. The realistic scenario should provide a balanced view of your brewery’s expected performance based on current market conditions and your competitive advantages. A break-even analysis can help illustrate when your brewery will become profitable under each scenario.

By presenting a comprehensive financial plan that includes detailed startup costs, funding requirements, and realistic projections, you’ll be well-positioned to secure the necessary funding and support to launch and grow your brewery business.

Operations and Management: Ensuring Smooth Brewery Operations

Production and quality control: crafting consistently exceptional beer.

A well-designed production process is the foundation of any successful brewery. Start by outlining your brewing process, including the equipment you’ll be using, the ingredients you’ll source, and the quality control measures you’ll implement at each stage.

Brewing Equipment and Facilities

Invest in high-quality brewing equipment that can handle your production volume and ensure consistent results. Consider factors such as:

🍺 Brewhouse size and capacity

🍺 Fermentation and conditioning tanks

🍺 Packaging equipment (bottling, canning, or kegging)

🍺 Laboratory equipment for quality control testing

Ingredient Sourcing and Quality

The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the quality of your beer. Develop relationships with reliable suppliers who can provide consistent, high-quality ingredients:

🌾 Malted grains (barley, wheat, rye, etc.)

🌾 Hops (pellets, whole leaf, or extracts)

🌾 Yeast strains (ale, lager, or specialty strains)

🌾 Water (treated or filtered to ensure consistency)

Quality Control and Testing

Implement a robust quality control program to ensure consistency and prevent off-flavors or contamination:

🔎 Regularly calibrate and maintain brewing equipment

🔎 Conduct sensory evaluations at each stage of the brewing process

🔎 Perform laboratory tests (gravity, pH, IBU, etc.) to monitor fermentation and ensure product consistency

🔎 Implement a recall plan in case of any quality issues

Inventory Management and Supply Chain Partnerships: Optimizing Efficiency

Effective inventory management and strong supply chain partnerships are essential for optimizing efficiency and minimizing waste in your brewery operations.

Inventory Management System

Implement an inventory management system to track raw materials, finished products, and packaging supplies:

🍺 Use software solutions (e.g., BeerBoard, Ekos Brewmaster) to monitor inventory levels and automate reordering

🍺 Conduct regular physical inventory counts to ensure accuracy

🍺 Establish par levels for each item to avoid stockouts or overstocking

🍺 Analyze sales data to forecast demand and optimize production schedules

Supply Chain Partnerships

Develop strategic partnerships with suppliers to ensure a reliable and cost-effective supply of raw materials and packaging:

📈 Negotiate long-term contracts with favorable pricing and delivery terms

📈 Collaborate with suppliers on forecasting and production planning to avoid shortages or delays

📈 Explore opportunities for bulk purchasing or group buying with other local breweries to reduce costs

Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility

Highlight your commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility in your brewery operations:

🌾 Implement water conservation measures, such as reclaiming rinse water or using low-flow fixtures

🌾 Explore energy-efficient equipment and renewable energy sources (e.g., solar panels)

🌾 Develop a waste reduction and recycling program for spent grain, packaging materials, and other byproducts

🌾 Partner with local farmers or food producers to repurpose spent grain as animal feed or compost

🌾 Get inspired by Sierra Nevada’s solar array , which generates 20% of the brewery’s electricity

🌾 Check out New Belgium’s wastewater treatment system : it produces biogas for energy production

By focusing on production quality, management structure, inventory efficiency, and sustainability, you can create a solid foundation for your brewery’s long-term success. These elements demonstrate to investors that you have a well-conceived plan for ensuring smooth and profitable operations.

Appendices and Supporting Documents: Strengthening Your Business Plan

Financial statements and projections.

A strong business plan requires detailed financial statements and projections to demonstrate the viability of your brewery. Include balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow projections for the next 3-5 years. These documents should be based on realistic assumptions and supported by thorough research.

Additionally, provide supporting documentation such as tax returns, contracts, and lease agreements. This level of transparency builds trust with potential investors and lenders, showing that you have a solid understanding of your brewery’s financial health and future potential.

Learn about your business’ future with this financial projection template

Market Research and Competitive Analysis

Investors want to see that you have a deep understanding of your target market and the competitive landscape. Include relevant market research data, such as industry reports, consumer surveys, and competitor profiles. This information should highlight the demand for craft beer in your area and identify any gaps in the market that your brewery can fill.

Provide a detailed SWOT analysis of your brewery, identifying its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This analysis should demonstrate your ability to capitalize on your unique selling points while mitigating potential risks.

Learn everything you need to know about your brewery with this SWOT template

Industry Reports and Consumer Surveys

📦 Craft Beer Market Size and Growth Projections

📦 Consumer Preferences and Buying Habits

📦 Local and Regional Market Trends

Competitor Profiles

🍻 Established Breweries in Your Area

🍻 Emerging Craft Beer Brands

🍻 Unique Selling Points and Market Positioning

Product and Packaging Samples

Your brewery’s products and packaging are the face of your brand. Include high-quality images of your beer labels, packaging designs, and merchandise in your business plan’s appendices. These visuals should showcase your brand’s unique identity and appeal to your target audience.

Provide samples of your marketing materials, such as brochures, flyers, and social media content. These materials should demonstrate your ability to effectively promote your brewery and engage with potential customers.

Beer Labels and Packaging Designs

👁️ Unique and Eye-Catching Artwork

👁️ Consistent Branding Across Product Lines

👁️ Sustainable and Environmentally-Friendly Materials

Merchandise and Promotional Items

🛍️ Branded Glassware and Apparel

🛍️ Custom Tap Handles and Signage

🛍️ Promotional Giveaways and Loyalty Program

Legal Documents and Permits

Demonstrating your commitment to compliance and due diligence is crucial when seeking funding for your brewery. Include copies of all necessary legal documents and permits in your business plan’s appendices, such as:

👉 Business License and Registration

👉 Federal Brewer’s Notice (TTB Form 5130.10)

👉 State and Local Alcohol Permits

👉 Food Service Licenses (if applicable)

👉 Lease Agreements or Property Deeds

👉 Insurance Policies

Having these documents readily available shows potential investors and lenders that you have taken all the necessary steps to operate your brewery legally and responsibly.

Personnel and Management Team

Your brewery’s success depends on the strength of your team. Include detailed biographies of your key personnel and management team, highlighting their relevant experience, skills, and qualifications. This section should demonstrate that you have assembled a well-rounded team capable of executing your business plan and achieving your goals.

Founder and Head Brewer

👥 Professional Background and Brewing Experience

👥 Awards and Recognition in the Craft Beer Industry

👥 Vision for the Brewery’s Future

Sales and Marketing Manager

🗣️ Experience in Craft Beer Sales and Distribution

🗣️ Proven Track Record of Building Brand Awareness

🗣️ Strategies for Expanding Market Share

By including these essential appendices and supporting documents, you will strengthen your brewery’s business plan and increase your chances of securing the funding needed to bring your vision to life. Potential investors and lenders will appreciate the level of detail and transparency provided, demonstrating your commitment to building a successful and sustainable craft beer brand.

Your Recipe for Brewery Success

You now have the essential ingredients to craft a compelling brewery business plan that will impress investors and set your brewery up for success. By showcasing your unique value proposition, understanding your target market, and developing a solid financial strategy, you’ll be well on your way to securing the funding you need to bring your vision to life.

Remember, a well-crafted business plan is more than just a document – it’s a roadmap for your brewery’s future. As you navigate the exciting world of craft brewing, refer back to your plan regularly, adjusting and refining as needed to stay on course.

Are you ready to take the next step in your brewery journey? Start by choosing one of the templates we’ve discussed and begin filling in the details of your plan. With dedication, passion, and a solid plan in place, you’ll be pouring your first pint before you know it.

Cheers to your brewing success!

What is a good brewery business plan?

Do you have a profitable brewery? review your business plan

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