How to Find a Template to Write a Business Plan

The template for your business plan should serve as a guide.

When you're starting out with your own business, one of the first steps you will have to take before contacting investors and lenders is to write a strong business plan. The exact information contained in your plan will depend largely on the size and type of business you are starting, but no matter what, your business plan must be organized and thorough. To help ease the process, find a template to help you write your business plan.

Instructions

1. Write a detailed list of all the elements and facts you want to include in your business plan, which you can use as a reference when you are choosing your template. Most plans should include a vision statement or mission, the concept and focus, and an outline of your business specifics that includes current and projected funds.

2. Search websites such as SCORE, Bplans or Microsoft Office for templates that are recommended by The Houston Chronicle for those seeking business plan templates. Browse several different templates and formats until you find one that works best for you. The templates on SCORE and Microsoft include those for start-ups, established businesses and nonprofits, while Bplans offers samples for specific business types, like restaurants, retail stores and spas.

3. Check the required software for your template before downloading. Microsoft Office templates will integrate with your data stored in Word and Excel, as will the SCORE templates. They also require a PDF reader to preview the templates. Bplan offers sample plans that you can use as a guide as you create your business plan using whatever program you feel most comfortable with.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't be afraid to customize any template you download, as there may not be any that are a perfect fit for your business. Every plan is different depending on the type of business, so your goal should be to create a plan that is well organized and includes all the most vital information.

References

• The Houston Chronicle: How to Find a Template to Write a Business Plan
• My Own Business: Business Plan

Resources

• SCORE: Template Gallery
• BPlans.com: Free Sample Business Plans
• Microsoft Office: Business Plans for Startup Businesses