Writing The Plan
Writing The Plan
What goes in a business plan? The body can be divided into four distinct sections:
- Description of the business
- Marketing
- Finances
- Management
Although there is no single formula for developing a business plan, some elements are common to all business plans. They are summarized in the following outline:
Elements of a Business Plan
1. Cover sheet
2. Statement of purpose
3. Table of contents
I. The Business
A. Description of business
B. Marketing
C. Competition
D. Operating procedures
E. Personnel
II. Financial Data
Pro-forma income projections (profit & loss statements)
Breakeven analysis
Pro-forma cash flow
Assumptions upon which projections were based
Three-year summary
Detail by month, first year
Detail by quarters, second and third years
Capital equipment and supply list
Balance sheet
III. Supporting Documents
Tax returns of principals for last three years
Personal financial statement (all banks have these forms)
Copy of resumes of all principals
Copy of proposed lease or purchase agreement for building space
Copy of licenses and other legal documents
Copies of letters of intent from suppliers, etc.
Sample Plans – One of the best ways to learn about writing a business plan is to study the plans of established businesses in your industry.
Review examples of real business plans.
For Additional Information: See: SBA’s Startup Guide
Business Plan Workshop
