Using a business plan template takes some of the work out of writing a business plan. These templates have outlines and suggestions for filling in the details of your business. The Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) offers templates for general business usage (see Resources below). More specialized templates for import/export businesses, craft businesses and nonprofit organizations are available as well.
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Difficulty:
Moderate
Instructions
1
Find business plan templates online, through the SCORE website or your state's small business ombudsman. Libraries and bookstores also have books about writing business plans, many of which have templates for download or to copy. Industry-specific professional organizations may also have templates for business plans available to their members.
2
Select a template that is appropriate for your business model. A nonprofit organization and a hair salon will have to include different things in their business plan, so having a specialized template will help you document everything in the most logical manner.
3
Read the template directions thoroughly. Complete each section in the order that's recommended by the author. A business plan template is like a worksheet. Even though the executive summary is at the beginning, it's often best to write it last.
4
Replace the sample text in the template with information that is specific to your company. Create graphs, charts and spreadsheets as needed, to make the information easier to read.
5
Research the demographics of your area and your market as you're writing. Use information from your chamber of commerce or the U.S. Census to quote statistics. Your industry's professional organization should also have industry-specific statistics that you can quote in your projections.
6
Consult with a representative from SCORE when you think the plan is finished. It's a nonprofit organization wherein retired executives volunteer to share their business expertise with start-up companies. In many areas they offer free workshops for writing a business plan.
7
Place your completed business plan in a three ring binder or other presentation folder to share with bankers, investors or managers.
Tips & Warnings
*Take your time, as writing a business plan takes a lot of research. It challenges you to document things about your business that may be just "in your head."
*Review your business plan regularly to ensure that you're adhering to it and to chart the accomplishment of goals.
