typical business plan outline

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How to Write a Business Plan Outline [Examples + Templates] 

By Letícia Fonseca , Aug 11, 2023

When venturing into crafting a business plan, the initial hurdle often lies in taking that first step.

So, how can you evade those prolonged hours of staring at a blank page? Initiate your journey with the aid of a business plan outline.

As with any endeavor, an outline serves as the beacon of clarity, illuminating the path to confront even the most formidable tasks. This holds particularly true when composing pivotal documents vital to your triumph, much like a business plan.

Nonetheless, I understand the enormity of a business plan’s scope, which might make the task of outlining it seem daunting. This is precisely why I’ve compiled all the requisite information to facilitate the creation of a business plan outline. No need to break a sweat!

And if you’re seeking further assistance, a business plan maker and readily available business plan templates can offer valuable support in shaping your comprehensive plan.

Read on for answers to all your business plan outline questions or jump ahead for some handy templates. 

Click to jump ahead:

What is a business plan outline (and why do you need one), what format should you choose for your business plan outline, what are the key components of a business plan outline.

• Business plan template examples
• Writing tips to ace your outline 

A business plan outline is the backbone of your business plan. It contains all the most important information you’ll want to expand on in your full-length plan. 

Think of it this way: your outline is a frame for your plan. It provides a high-level idea of what the final plan should look like, what it will include and how all the information will be organized. 

Why would you do this extra step? Beyond saving you from blank page syndrome, an outline ensures you don’t leave any essential information out of your plan — you can see all the most important points at a glance and quickly identify any content gaps. 

It also serves as a writing guide. Once you know all the sections you want in your plan, you just need to expand on them. Suddenly, you’re “filling in the blanks” as opposed to writing a plan from scratch!

Incidentally, using a business plan template like this one gives you a running head start, too: 

Perhaps most importantly, a business plan outline keeps you focused on the essential parts of your document. (Not to mention what matters most to stakeholders and investors.)  With an outline, you’ll spend less time worrying about structure or organization and more time perfecting the actual content of your document. 

If you’re looking for more general advice, you can read about  how to create a business plan here . But if you’re working on outlining your plan, stick with me.

Return to Table of Contents

Most business plans fit into one of two formats. 

The format you choose largely depends on three factors: (1) the stage of your business, (2) if you’re presenting the plan to investors and (3) what you want to achieve with your business plan. 

Let’s have a closer look at these two formats and why you might choose one over the other.

Traditional format

Traditional business plans  are typically long, detailed documents. In many cases, they take up to 50-60 pages, but it’s not uncommon to see plans spanning 100+ pages. 

Traditional plans are long because they cover  every aspect  of your business. They leave nothing out. You’ll find a traditional business plan template with sections like executive summary, company description, target market, market analysis, marketing plan, financial plan, and more. Basically: the more information the merrier.

This business plan template isn’t of a traditional format, but you could expand it into one by duplicating pages:

Due to their high level of detail, traditional formats are the best way to sell your business. They show you’re reliable and have a clear vision for your business’s future. 

If you’re planning on presenting your plan to investors and stakeholders, you’ll want to go with a traditional plan format. The more information you include, the fewer doubts and questions you’ll get when you present your plan, so don’t hold back. 

Traditional business plans require more detailed outlines before drafting since there’s a lot of information to cover. You’ll want to list all the sections and include bullet points describing what each section should cover. 

It’s also a good idea to include all external resources and visuals in your outline, so you don’t have to gather them later. 

Lean format

Lean business plan formats are high level and quick to write. They’re often only one or two pages. Similar to a  business plan infographic , they’re scannable and quick to digest, like this template: 

This format is often referred to as a “startup” format due to (you guessed it!) many startups using it. 

Lean business plans require less detailed outlines. You can include high-level sections and a few lines in each section covering the basics. Since the final plan will only be a page or two, you don’t need to over prepare. Nor will you need a ton of external resources. 

Lean plans don’t answer all the questions investors and stakeholders may ask, so if you go this route, make sure it’s the right choice for your business . Companies not yet ready to present to investors will typically use a lean/startup business plan format to get their rough plan on paper and share it internally with their management team. 

Here’s another example of a lean business plan format in the form of a financial plan: 

Your business plan outline should include all the following sections. The level of detail you choose to go into will depend on your intentions for your plan (sharing with stakeholders vs. internal use), but you’ll want every section to be clear and to the point. 

1. Executive summary

The executive summary gives a high-level description of your company, product or service. This section should include a mission statement, your company description, your business’s primary goal, and the problem it aims to solve. You’ll want to state how your business can solve the problem and briefly explain what makes you stand out (your competitive advantage).

Having an executive summary is essential to selling your business to stakeholders , so it should be as clear and concise as possible. Summarize your business in a few sentences in a way that will hook the reader (or audience) and get them invested in what you have to say next. In other words, this is your elevator pitch.

2. Product and services description

This is where you should go into more detail about your product or service. Your product is the heart of your business, so it’s essential this section is easy to grasp. After all, if people don’t know what you’re selling, you’ll have a hard time keeping them engaged!

Expand on your description in the executive summary, going into detail about the problem your customers face and how your product/service will solve it. If you have various products or services, go through all of them in equal detail. 

3. Target market and/or Market analysis

A market analysis is crucial for placing your business in a larger context and showing investors you know your industry. This section should include market research on your prospective customer demographic including location, age range, goals and motivations. 

You can even  include detailed customer personas  as a visual aid — these are especially useful if you have several target demographics. You want to showcase your knowledge of your customer, who exactly you’re selling to and how you can fulfill their needs.

Be sure to include information on the overall target market for your product, including direct and indirect competitors and how your industry is performing. If your competitors have strengths you want to mimic or weaknesses you want to exploit, this is the place to record that information. 

4. Organization and management

You can think of this as a “meet the team” section — this is where you should go into depth on your business’s structure from management to legal and HR. If there are people bringing unique skills or experience to the table (I’m sure there are!), you should highlight them in this section. 

The goal here is to showcase why your team is the best to run your business. Investors want to know you’re unified, organized and reliable. This is also a potential opportunity to bring more humanity to your business plan and showcase the faces behind the ideas and product. 

5. Marketing and sales

Now that you’ve introduced your product and team, you need to explain how you’re going to sell it. Give a detailed explanation of your sales and marketing strategy, including pricing, timelines for launching your product and advertising.

This is a major section of your plan and can even live as a separate document for your marketing and sales teams. Here are some  marketing plan templates to help you get started .

Make sure you have research or analysis to back up your decisions — if you want to do paid ads on LinkedIn to advertise your product, include a brief explanation as to why that is the best channel for your business. 

6. Financial projections and funding request

The end of your plan is where you’ll look to the future and how you think your business will perform financially. Your financial plan should include results from your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow projections. 

State your funding requirements and what you need to realize the business. Be extremely clear about how you plan to use the funding and when you expect investors will see returns.

If you aren’t presenting to potential investors, you can skip this part, but it’s something to keep in mind should you seek funding in the future. Covering financial projections and the previous five components is essential at the stage of business formation to ensure everything goes smoothly moving forward.

7. Appendix

Any extra visual aids, receipts, paperwork or charts will live here. Anything that may be relevant to your plan should be included as reference e.g. your cash flow statement (or other financial statements). You can format your appendix in whatever way you think is best — as long as it’s easy for readers to find what they’re looking for, you’ve done your job!

Typically, the best way to start your outline is to list all these high-level sections. Then, you can add bullet points outlining what will go in each section and the resources you’ll need to write them. This should give you a solid starting point for your full-length plan.

Business plan outline templates

Looking for a shortcut? Our  business plan templates  are basically outlines in a box! 

While your outline likely won’t go into as much detail, these templates are great examples of how to organize your sections.

Traditional format templates

A strong template can turn your long, dense business plan into an engaging, easy-to-read document. There are lots to choose from, but here are just a few ideas to inspire you… 

You can duplicate pages and use these styles for a traditional outline, or start with a lean outline as you build your business plan out over time:

Lean format templates

For lean format outlines, a simpler ‘ mind map ’ style is a good bet. With this style, you can get ideas down fast and quickly turn them into one or two-page plans. Plus, because they’re shorter, they’re easy to share with your team.

Writing tips to ace your business plan outline

Business plans are complex documents, so if you’re still not sure how to write your outline, don’t worry! Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when drafting your business plan outline:

• Ask yourself why you’re writing an outline. Having a clear goal for your outline can help keep you on track as you write. Everything you include in your plan should contribute to your goal. If it doesn’t, it probably doesn’t need to be in there.
• Keep it clear and concise. Whether you’re writing a traditional or lean format business plan, your outline should be easy to understand. Choose your words wisely and avoid unnecessary preambles or padding language. The faster you get to the point, the easier your plan will be to read.
• Add visual aids. No one likes reading huge walls of text! Make room in your outline for visuals, data and charts. This keeps your audience engaged and helps those who are more visual learners. Psst,  infographics  are great for this.
• Make it collaborative. Have someone (or several someones) look it over before finalizing your outline. If you have an established marketing / sales / finance team, have them look it over too. Getting feedback at the outline stage can help you avoid rewrites and wasted time down the line.

If this is your first time writing a business plan outline, don’t be too hard on yourself. You might not get it 100% right on the first try, but with these tips and the key components listed above, you’ll have a strong foundation. Remember, done is better than perfect. 

Create a winning business plan by starting with a detailed, actionable outline

The best way to learn is by doing. So go ahead, get started on your business plan outline. As you develop your plan, you’ll no doubt learn more about your business and what’s important for success along the way. 

A clean, compelling template is a great way to get a head start on your outline. After all, the sections are already separated and defined for you! 

Explore Venngage’s business plan templates  for one that suits your needs. Many are free to use and there are premium templates available for a small monthly fee. Happy outlining!

Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Simple Business Plan

By Joe Weller | October 11, 2021

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A business plan is the cornerstone of any successful company, regardless of size or industry. This step-by-step guide provides information on writing a business plan for organizations at any stage, complete with free templates and expert advice. 

Included on this page, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to writing a business plan and a chart to identify which type of business plan you should write . Plus, find information on how a business plan can help grow a business and expert tips on writing one .

What Is a Business Plan?

A business plan is a document that communicates a company’s goals and ambitions, along with the timeline, finances, and methods needed to achieve them. Additionally, it may include a mission statement and details about the specific products or services offered.

A business plan can highlight varying time periods, depending on the stage of your company and its goals. That said, a typical business plan will include the following benchmarks:

• Product goals and deadlines for each month
• Monthly financials for the first two years
• Profit and loss statements for the first three to five years
• Balance sheet projections for the first three to five years

Startups, entrepreneurs, and small businesses all create business plans to use as a guide as their new company progresses. Larger organizations may also create (and update) a business plan to keep high-level goals, financials, and timelines in check.

While you certainly need to have a formalized outline of your business’s goals and finances, creating a business plan can also help you determine a company’s viability, its profitability (including when it will first turn a profit), and how much money you will need from investors. In turn, a business plan has functional value as well: Not only does outlining goals help keep you accountable on a timeline, it can also attract investors in and of itself and, therefore, act as an effective strategy for growth.

For more information, visit our comprehensive guide to writing a strategic plan or download free strategic plan templates . This page focuses on for-profit business plans, but you can read our article with nonprofit business plan templates .

Business Plan Steps

The specific information in your business plan will vary, depending on the needs and goals of your venture, but a typical plan includes the following ordered elements:

• Executive summary
• Description of business
• Market analysis
• Competitive analysis
• Description of organizational management
• Description of product or services
• Marketing plan
• Sales strategy
• Funding details (or request for funding)
• Financial projections

If your plan is particularly long or complicated, consider adding a table of contents or an appendix for reference. For an in-depth description of each step listed above, read “ How to Write a Business Plan Step by Step ” below.

Broadly speaking, your audience includes anyone with a vested interest in your organization. They can include potential and existing investors, as well as customers, internal team members, suppliers, and vendors.

Do I Need a Simple or Detailed Plan?

Your business’s stage and intended audience dictates the level of detail your plan needs. Corporations require a thorough business plan — up to 100 pages. Small businesses or startups should have a concise plan focusing on financials and strategy.

How to Choose the Right Plan for Your Business

In order to identify which type of business plan you need to create, ask: “What do we want the plan to do?” Identify function first, and form will follow.

Use the chart below as a guide for what type of business plan to create:

Is the Order of Your Business Plan Important?

There is no set order for a business plan, with the exception of the executive summary, which should always come first. Beyond that, simply ensure that you organize the plan in a way that makes sense and flows naturally.

The Difference Between Traditional and Lean Business Plans

A traditional business plan follows the standard structure — because these plans encourage detail, they tend to require more work upfront and can run dozens of pages. A Lean business plan is less common and focuses on summarizing critical points for each section. These plans take much less work and typically run one page in length.

In general, you should use a traditional model for a legacy company, a large company, or any business that does not adhere to Lean (or another Agile method ). Use Lean if you expect the company to pivot quickly or if you already employ a Lean strategy with other business operations. Additionally, a Lean business plan can suffice if the document is for internal use only. Stick to a traditional version for investors, as they may be more sensitive to sudden changes or a high degree of built-in flexibility in the plan.

How to Write a Business Plan Step by Step

Writing a strong business plan requires research and attention to detail for each section. Below, you’ll find a 10-step guide to researching and defining each element in the plan.

Step 1: Executive Summary

The executive summary will always be the first section of your business plan. The goal is to answer the following questions:

• What is the vision and mission of the company?
• What are the company’s short- and long-term goals?

See our  roundup of executive summary examples and templates for samples. Read our executive summary guide to learn more about writing one.

Step 2: Description of Business

The goal of this section is to define the realm, scope, and intent of your venture. To do so, answer the following questions as clearly and concisely as possible:

• What business are we in?
• What does our business do?

Step 3: Market Analysis

In this section, provide evidence that you have surveyed and understand the current marketplace, and that your product or service satisfies a niche in the market. To do so, answer these questions:

• Who is our customer? 
• What does that customer value?

Step 4: Competitive Analysis

In many cases, a business plan proposes not a brand-new (or even market-disrupting) venture, but a more competitive version — whether via features, pricing, integrations, etc. — than what is currently available. In this section, answer the following questions to show that your product or service stands to outpace competitors:

• Who is the competition? 
• What do they do best? 
• What is our unique value proposition?

Step 5: Description of Organizational Management

In this section, write an overview of the team members and other key personnel who are integral to success. List roles and responsibilities, and if possible, note the hierarchy or team structure.

Step 6: Description of Products or Services

In this section, clearly define your product or service, as well as all the effort and resources that go into producing it. The strength of your product largely defines the success of your business, so it’s imperative that you take time to test and refine the product before launching into marketing, sales, or funding details.

Questions to answer in this section are as follows:

• What is the product or service?
• How do we produce it, and what resources are necessary for production?

Step 7: Marketing Plan

In this section, define the marketing strategy for your product or service. This doesn’t need to be as fleshed out as a full marketing plan , but it should answer basic questions, such as the following:

• Who is the target market (if different from existing customer base)?
• What channels will you use to reach your target market?
• What resources does your marketing strategy require, and do you have access to them?
• If possible, do you have a rough estimate of timeline and budget?
• How will you measure success?

Step 8: Sales Plan

Write an overview of the sales strategy, including the priorities of each cycle, steps to achieve these goals, and metrics for success. For the purposes of a business plan, this section does not need to be a comprehensive, in-depth sales plan , but can simply outline the high-level objectives and strategies of your sales efforts. 

Start by answering the following questions:

• What is the sales strategy?
• What are the tools and tactics you will use to achieve your goals?
• What are the potential obstacles, and how will you overcome them?
• What is the timeline for sales and turning a profit?
• What are the metrics of success?

Step 9: Funding Details (or Request for Funding)

This section is one of the most critical parts of your business plan, particularly if you are sharing it with investors. You do not need to provide a full financial plan, but you should be able to answer the following questions:

• How much capital do you currently have? How much capital do you need?
• How will you grow the team (onboarding, team structure, training and development)?
• What are your physical needs and constraints (space, equipment, etc.)?

Step 10: Financial Projections

Apart from the fundraising analysis, investors like to see thought-out financial projections for the future. As discussed earlier, depending on the scope and stage of your business, this could be anywhere from one to five years. 

While these projections won’t be exact — and will need to be somewhat flexible — you should be able to gauge the following:

• How and when will the company first generate a profit?
• How will the company maintain profit thereafter?

Business Plan Template

Download Business Plan Template

Microsoft Excel | Smartsheet

This basic business plan template has space for all the traditional elements: an executive summary, product or service details, target audience, marketing and sales strategies, etc. In the finances sections, input your baseline numbers, and the template will automatically calculate projections for sales forecasting, financial statements, and more.

For templates tailored to more specific needs, visit this business plan template roundup or download a fill-in-the-blank business plan template to make things easy. 

If you are looking for a particular template by file type, visit our pages dedicated exclusively to Microsoft Excel , Microsoft Word , and Adobe PDF business plan templates.

How to Write a Simple Business Plan

A simple business plan is a streamlined, lightweight version of the large, traditional model. As opposed to a one-page business plan , which communicates high-level information for quick overviews (such as a stakeholder presentation), a simple business plan can exceed one page.

Below are the steps for creating a generic simple business plan, which are reflected in the template below .

• Write the Executive Summary This section is the same as in the traditional business plan — simply offer an overview of what’s in the business plan, the prospect or core offering, and the short- and long-term goals of the company. 
• Add a Company Overview Document the larger company mission and vision. 
• Provide the Problem and Solution In straightforward terms, define the problem you are attempting to solve with your product or service and how your company will attempt to do it. Think of this section as the gap in the market you are attempting to close.
• Identify the Target Market Who is your company (and its products or services) attempting to reach? If possible, briefly define your buyer personas .
• Write About the Competition In this section, demonstrate your knowledge of the market by listing the current competitors and outlining your competitive advantage.
• Describe Your Product or Service Offerings Get down to brass tacks and define your product or service. What exactly are you selling?
• Outline Your Marketing Tactics Without getting into too much detail, describe your planned marketing initiatives.
• Add a Timeline and the Metrics You Will Use to Measure Success Offer a rough timeline, including milestones and key performance indicators (KPIs) that you will use to measure your progress.
• Include Your Financial Forecasts Write an overview of your financial plan that demonstrates you have done your research and adequate modeling. You can also list key assumptions that go into this forecasting. 
• Identify Your Financing Needs This section is where you will make your funding request. Based on everything in the business plan, list your proposed sources of funding, as well as how you will use it.

Simple Business Plan Template

Download Simple Business Plan Template

Microsoft Excel |  Microsoft Word | Adobe PDF  | Smartsheet

Use this simple business plan template to outline each aspect of your organization, including information about financing and opportunities to seek out further funding. This template is completely customizable to fit the needs of any business, whether it’s a startup or large company.

Read our article offering free simple business plan templates or free 30-60-90-day business plan templates to find more tailored options. You can also explore our collection of one page business templates . 

How to Write a Business Plan for a Lean Startup

A Lean startup business plan is a more Agile approach to a traditional version. The plan focuses more on activities, processes, and relationships (and maintains flexibility in all aspects), rather than on concrete deliverables and timelines.

While there is some overlap between a traditional and a Lean business plan, you can write a Lean plan by following the steps below:

• Add Your Value Proposition Take a streamlined approach to describing your product or service. What is the unique value your startup aims to deliver to customers? Make sure the team is aligned on the core offering and that you can state it in clear, simple language.
• List Your Key Partners List any other businesses you will work with to realize your vision, including external vendors, suppliers, and partners. This section demonstrates that you have thoughtfully considered the resources you can provide internally, identified areas for external assistance, and conducted research to find alternatives.
• Note the Key Activities Describe the key activities of your business, including sourcing, production, marketing, distribution channels, and customer relationships.
• Include Your Key Resources List the critical resources — including personnel, equipment, space, and intellectual property — that will enable you to deliver your unique value.
• Identify Your Customer Relationships and Channels In this section, document how you will reach and build relationships with customers. Provide a high-level map of the customer experience from start to finish, including the spaces in which you will interact with the customer (online, retail, etc.). 
• Detail Your Marketing Channels Describe the marketing methods and communication platforms you will use to identify and nurture your relationships with customers. These could be email, advertising, social media, etc.
• Explain the Cost Structure This section is especially necessary in the early stages of a business. Will you prioritize maximizing value or keeping costs low? List the foundational startup costs and how you will move toward profit over time.
• Share Your Revenue Streams Over time, how will the company make money? Include both the direct product or service purchase, as well as secondary sources of revenue, such as subscriptions, selling advertising space, fundraising, etc.

Lean Business Plan Template for Startups

Download Lean Business Plan Template for Startups

Microsoft Word | Adobe PDF

Startup leaders can use this Lean business plan template to relay the most critical information from a traditional plan. You’ll find all the sections listed above, including spaces for industry and product overviews, cost structure and sources of revenue, and key metrics, and a timeline. The template is completely customizable, so you can edit it to suit the objectives of your Lean startups.

See our wide variety of  startup business plan templates for more options.

How to Write a Business Plan for a Loan

A business plan for a loan, often called a loan proposal , includes many of the same aspects of a traditional business plan, as well as additional financial documents, such as a credit history, a loan request, and a loan repayment plan.

In addition, you may be asked to include personal and business financial statements, a form of collateral, and equity investment information.

Download free financial templates to support your business plan.

Tips for Writing a Business Plan

Outside of including all the key details in your business plan, you have several options to elevate the document for the highest chance of winning funding and other resources. Follow these tips from experts:.

• Keep It Simple: Avner Brodsky , the Co-Founder and CEO of Lezgo Limited, an online marketing company, uses the acronym KISS (keep it short and simple) as a variation on this idea. “The business plan is not a college thesis,” he says. “Just focus on providing the essential information.”
• Do Adequate Research: Michael Dean, the Co-Founder of Pool Research , encourages business leaders to “invest time in research, both internal and external (market, finance, legal etc.). Avoid being overly ambitious or presumptive. Instead, keep everything objective, balanced, and accurate.” Your plan needs to stand on its own, and you must have the data to back up any claims or forecasting you make. As Brodsky explains, “Your business needs to be grounded on the realities of the market in your chosen location. Get the most recent data from authoritative sources so that the figures are vetted by experts and are reliable.”
• Set Clear Goals: Make sure your plan includes clear, time-based goals. “Short-term goals are key to momentum growth and are especially important to identify for new businesses,” advises Dean.
• Know (and Address) Your Weaknesses: “This awareness sets you up to overcome your weak points much quicker than waiting for them to arise,” shares Dean. Brodsky recommends performing a full SWOT analysis to identify your weaknesses, too. “Your business will fare better with self-knowledge, which will help you better define the mission of your business, as well as the strategies you will choose to achieve your objectives,” he adds.
• Seek Peer or Mentor Review: “Ask for feedback on your drafts and for areas to improve,” advises Brodsky. “When your mind is filled with dreams for your business, sometimes it is an outsider who can tell you what you’re missing and will save your business from being a product of whimsy.”

Outside of these more practical tips, the language you use is also important and may make or break your business plan.

Shaun Heng, VP of Operations at Coin Market Cap , gives the following advice on the writing, “Your business plan is your sales pitch to an investor. And as with any sales pitch, you need to strike the right tone and hit a few emotional chords. This is a little tricky in a business plan, because you also need to be formal and matter-of-fact. But you can still impress by weaving in descriptive language and saying things in a more elegant way.

“A great way to do this is by expanding your vocabulary, avoiding word repetition, and using business language. Instead of saying that something ‘will bring in as many customers as possible,’ try saying ‘will garner the largest possible market segment.’ Elevate your writing with precise descriptive words and you'll impress even the busiest investor.”

Additionally, Dean recommends that you “stay consistent and concise by keeping your tone and style steady throughout, and your language clear and precise. Include only what is 100 percent necessary.”

Resources for Writing a Business Plan

While a template provides a great outline of what to include in a business plan, a live document or more robust program can provide additional functionality, visibility, and real-time updates. The U.S. Small Business Association also curates resources for writing a business plan.

Additionally, you can use business plan software to house data, attach documentation, and share information with stakeholders. Popular options include LivePlan, Enloop, BizPlanner, PlanGuru, and iPlanner.

How a Business Plan Helps to Grow Your Business

A business plan — both the exercise of creating one and the document — can grow your business by helping you to refine your product, target audience, sales plan, identify opportunities, secure funding, and build new partnerships. 

Outside of these immediate returns, writing a business plan is a useful exercise in that it forces you to research the market, which prompts you to forge your unique value proposition and identify ways to beat the competition. Doing so will also help you build (and keep you accountable to) attainable financial and product milestones. And down the line, it will serve as a welcome guide as hurdles inevitably arise.

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Use This Simple Business Plan Outline to Organize Your Plan

12 min. read

Updated April 10, 2024

When starting a business, having a well-thought-out business plan prepared is necessary for success . It helps guide your strategy and prepares you to overcome the obstacles and risks associated with entrepreneurship. In short, a business plan makes you more likely to succeed.

However, like everything in business, starting is often the hardest part. What information do you need? How in-depth should each section be? How should the plan be structured?

All good questions that you can answer by following this business plan outline. 

• What is a business plan outline?

A business plan outline is similar to most business plan templates . It lists the common sections that all business plans should include.

A traditional business plan typically includes an executive summary, an overview of your products and services, thorough market research, a competitive analysis, a marketing and sales strategy, operational and company details, financial projections, and an appendix. 

• Why is a business plan outline important?

Starting with a business plan outline helps ensure that you’re including all of the necessary information for a complete business plan. 

But, depending on what you intend to do with your plan, you may not need all of this information right away. If you’re going to speak with investors or pursue funding, then yes, you’ll need to include everything from this outline.

But, if you’re using your plan to test an idea or help run your business, you may want to opt for a one-page plan . This is a simpler and faster method that is designed to be updated and used day-to-day. 

If you’re unsure of which plan is right for you, check out our guide explaining the differences and use cases for each plan type . 

• 10 key sections in a standard business plan outline

No matter the type of business plan you create, these are the ten basic sections you should include. Be sure to download your free business plan template to start drafting your own plan as you work through this outline.

1. Executive summary

While it may appear first, it’s best to write your executive summary last. It’s a brief section that highlights the high-level points you’ve made elsewhere in your business plan.

Summarize the problem you are solving for customers, your solution, the target market, your team that’s building the business, and financial forecast highlights. Keep things as brief as possible and entice your audience to learn more about your company. 

Keep in mind, this is the first impression your plan and business will make. After looking over your executive summary, your reader is either going to throw your business plan away or keep reading. So make sure you spend the time to get it just right.

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2. Products and services

Start the products and services section of your business plan by describing the problem you are solving for your customer. Next, describe how you solve that problem with your product or service. 

If you’ve already made some headway selling your solution, detail that progress here—this is called “traction”. You can also describe any intellectual property or patents that you have if that’s an important part of your business.

3. Market analysis 

You need to know your target market —the types of customers you are looking for—and how it’s changing.

Use the market analysis section of your business plan to discuss the size of your market—how many potential customers exist for your business—and if your potential customers can be segmented into different groups, such as age groups or some other demographic.

4. Competition

Describe your competition in this section. If you don’t have any direct competitors, describe what your customers currently do to solve the problem that your product fixes. 

If you have direct competition, detail what your strengths and weaknesses are in comparison, and how you’ll differentiate from what is already available. 

5. Marketing and sales

Use this business plan section to outline your marketing and sales plan —how you’ll reach your target customers and what the process will be for selling to them.

You’ll want to cover your market position, marketing activities, sales channels, and your pricing strategy. This will likely evolve over time, but it’s best to include anything that clearly details how you will sell and promote your products and services. 

6. Operations

What’s included in the operations section really depends on the type of business you are planning for. If your business has a physical location or other facilities, you’ll want to describe them here. If your business relies heavily on technology or specific equipment or tools, you should describe that technology or equipment here.

You can also use this section to describe your supply chain if that’s an important aspect of your business. 

7. Milestones and metrics

In a business, milestones are important goals that you are setting for your business. They may be important launch dates, or a timeline of when you’ll get regulatory approval—if that’s something you need for your business. Use this section of your plan to describe those milestones and the roadmap you are planning to follow.

You can also describe important metrics for your business, such as the number of sales leads you expect to get each month or the percentage of leads that will become customers.

8. Company overview and team

The company and team section of your plan is an overview of who you are.

It should describe the organization of your business, and the key members of the management team. It should also provide any historical background about your business. For example, you’ll describe when your company was founded, who the owners are, what state your company is registered in and where you do business, and when/if your company was incorporated.

Be sure to include summaries of your key team members’ backgrounds and experience—these should act like brief resumes—and describe their functions with the company. You should also include any professional gaps you intend to fill with new employees.

9. Financial plan and forecasts

Your financial plan should include a sales forecast, profit and loss, cash flow projections, and balance sheet, along with a brief description of the assumptions you’re making with your projections.

If you are raising money or taking out loans, you should highlight the money you need to launch the business. This part should also include a use of funds report—basically an overview of how the funding will be used in business operations. 

And while it’s not required, it may be wise to briefly mention your exit strategy . This doesn’t need to be overly detailed, just a general idea of how you may eventually want to exit your business. 

10. Appendix

The end of your business plan should include any additional information to back up specific elements of your plan. More detailed financial statements, resumes for your management team, patent documentation, credit histories, marketing examples, etc. 

• Detailed business plan outline

If you’re looking for greater insight into what goes into specific planning sections, check out the following outline for a business plan. It can help you develop a detailed business plan or provide guidance as to what may be missing from your current plan. 

Keep in mind that every business plan will look a bit different because every business is unique. After all, business planning is to help you be more successful, so focus on the sections that are most beneficial to your business and skip the sections that aren’t useful or don’t apply. 

To help, we’ve marked sections that are truly optional with an *.

Executive summary

Company purpose / mission statement.

A very brief description of what your business does and/or what its mission is.

Problem We Solve

A summary of the problem you are solving and an identifiable need in the market you are filling.

Our Solution

A description of the product or service you will provide to solve the problem.

Target Market

A defined customer base who will most likely purchase the product or service.

Briefly describe who is behind the business.

Financial Summary

A short overview of revenue goals and profitability timeline.

If you’ve already started selling your product or service, highlight important initial details here.

Funding Needed*

If you are raising money for your business, describe how much capital you need.

Products & Services

Problem worth solving.

A thorough description of the problem or pain points you intend to solve for your customer base. 

A thorough description of your proposed product or service that alleviates the problem for your customer base.

Describe any initial evidence that your customers are excited to spend money on your solution. Initial sales or signed contracts are good signs.

Intellectual Property/Patents*

If this is important for your business, outline it here.

Regulatory Requirements*

If government approval is required for your business, explain the details and timeline.

Future Products and Services*

What products and services might you offer in the future once your initial products and services are successful?

Market Size & Segments

How many potential customers do you have and what potential groups of customers are separated by specific characteristics?

Market Trends*

How consumers in your target market tend to act including purchasing habits, financial trends, and any other relevant factors.

Market Growth*

The perceived potential increase or decrease in the size of your target market.

Industry Analysis*

If your industry is changing or adjusting over time, describe those changes.

Key Customers*

If your business relies on certain important customers, describe who they are here.

Future Markets*

A snapshot of the potential market based on the last few sections and how your business strategy works within it.

Competition 

Current alternatives.

A list of potential competitors. Identifying the competition isn’t always obvious and it may take some digging on your part.

Our Advantages

The strategic advantage(s) that makes your target market more likely to choose you over the competition. 

Barriers to Entry*

If there’s anything that makes it more difficult for other people to start competing with you, describe those barriers.

Marketing & Sales

Market positioning.

Where do your products or services fit into the market? Are you the low-price leader or the premium option?

Unique value proposition*

What’s special about your offering that makes your customers want to choose it over the competition.

Marketing Plan

An outline of your marketing and advertising strategy including costs, advertising channels, and goals.

How do you sell your product or service? Self-serve or with a team of sales representatives?

Pricing Strategy*

Describe your pricing and how it compares to alternatives in the market.

Distribution*

Describe how your product gets in front of customers. Are you selling in stores and online? Which retailers?

SWOT Analysis*

Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats.

Location & Facilities

If you have a physical presence, describe where and what it is.

What technology is crucial for your business success?

Equipment & Tools

If special equipment or tools are needed for your business, describe them here.

Sourcing and fulfillment*

If you purchase your products or parts for your products from somewhere else, describe that sourcing and supply chain.

Partners and Resources*

If you have key partners that you work with to make your business a success, describe who they are and what services or products they provide.

Milestones and metrics

A detailed roadmap of specific goals and objectives you plan to achieve will help you manage and steer your business.

Key metrics

Performance measurements that help you gauge the overall performance and health of your business.

Company overview and team

Organizational structure.

An overview of the legal structure of your business. 

Company history and ownership

A summary of your company’s history and how it relates to planning your business.

Management team

The team that is starting or running your business and why they are uniquely qualified to make the business a success.

Management team gaps

Key positions that your business will need to fill to make it successful.

Financial plan and forecast

Projected profit and loss.

How much money you will bring in by selling products and/or services and how much profit you will make or lose after accounting for costs and expenses.

Projected cash flow

How and when cash moves in and out of your business. This also includes your overall cash position.

Projected balance sheet

Expected balances for business assets, liabilities, and equity.

Use of funds

If you are raising money either through loans or investment, explain how funds will be used. This is typically meant to be shared with investors or lenders.

Exit strategy

A brief explanation of how you intend to eventually exit from your business. This could include selling the business, going public, transitioning the business to a family member/employee, etc.

A repository for any additional information, including charts and graphs, to support your business plan.

Business plan outline FAQ

How do you organize your business plan?

There’s no real established order to business plans, aside from keeping the Executive Summary at the top. As long as you have all of the main business plan components, then the order should reflect your goals. 

If this is meant solely for your personal use, lay it out as a roadmap with similar sections grouped together for easy reference. If you’re pitching this to potential investors, lead with the stronger sections to emphasize the pitch. Then if you’re unsure of what order makes sense, then just stick to the outline in this article.

Should you include tables and charts in your business plan?

Every business plan should include bar charts and pie charts to illustrate the numbers. It’s a simple way for you, your team, and investors to visualize and digest complex financial information.

Cash flow is the single most important numerical analysis in a business plan, and a standard cash flow statement or table should never be missing. Most standard business plans also include a sales forecast and income statement (also called profit and loss), and a balance sheet.

How long should your business plan be?

There’s no perfect length for a business plan. A traditional business plan can be anywhere from 10 to 50 pages long depending on how much detail you include in each section. However, as we said before unless you intend to pursue funding, you likely don’t need a lengthy business plan at first.

See why 1.2 million entrepreneurs have written their business plans with LivePlan

Tim Berry is the founder and chairman of Palo Alto Software , a co-founder of Borland International, and a recognized expert in business planning. He has an MBA from Stanford and degrees with honors from the University of Oregon and the University of Notre Dame. Today, Tim dedicates most of his time to blogging, teaching and evangelizing for business planning.

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The Ultimate Business Plan Outline

So, what is the difference between a business plan format and a business plan outline ? To be honest, a business plan format and a business plan outline are essentially the same thing.  Your business plan structure should include a few key components including:

• Executive Summary

Business Overview

• Market Analysis
• Products & Services
• Operational Plan
• Marketing Strategy
• Management Team
• Financial Plan

Executive Summary The executive summary is a fundamental element of any basic business plan outline. It holds a strategic position, often appearing at the beginning. Surprisingly, it is advisable to compose this section last. The executive summary serves as a concise overview, encapsulating the key highlights detailed throughout your comprehensive business plan.

In this section, provide a condensed yet impactful summary of the problem your business addresses, the innovative solution you offer, your identified target market, the dynamic team driving your enterprise, and highlights from your financial forecasts . This segment functions as a teaser, inviting your audience to delve deeper into the intricacies of your company.

Recognize that the executive summary constitutes the initial impression your business plan will make. Upon reviewing this section, your reader is poised to make a crucial decision: continue exploring your plan or set it aside. Hence, dedicating sufficient time to craft an engaging and informative executive summary is paramount for capturing and retaining your reader’s attention.

In the business overview section, we present a comprehensive outline for a business plan, offering insights into the structure and the layout of a business plan. This includes a business outline example and a sample business plan outline , providing clarity on the format and headers of a typical business plan. Understanding the traditional business plan format is essential, and this section serves as a guide for creating a well-structured business plan that adheres to the standard business plan format. It delves into the basics, giving an example of an outline of business plan while illustrating the breakdown and sections integral to a business plan.

Market Analysis In your business plan’s market analysis section, delve into understanding your target market and its evolving dynamics. Outline the size of your market, evaluating the potential customer base for your business. Consider segmentation possibilities, exploring whether your potential customers can be categorized into distinct groups, such as various age groups or other relevant demographics. This strategic approach to market analysis provides valuable insights into the composition and characteristics of your target audience, enabling you to tailor your business strategies effectively and align them with the evolving needs of your customers.

Products & Services In the products and services section of your business plan, initiate by articulating the problem addressed for customers. Then, meticulously illustrate how your product or service serves as the solution. If you’ve achieved notable progress in selling your solution, highlighting this as “traction” is crucial. Additionally, elucidate any intellectual property or patents, if integral to your business model outline. This detailed insight provides an essential understanding of what your business offers and the uniqueness that sets it apart. Ensure clarity in your layout of a business plan, utilizing headers and a well-structured breakdown to exemplify the depth and viability of your business.

Operational Plan The content of the operations section varies based on your business type. For businesses with physical locations or facilities, details about these spaces are essential. Similarly, businesses relying on specific technology or equipment should elaborate on these aspects. This section is also valuable for outlining the supply chain, especially if it plays a crucial role in the business.

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Marketing Strategy The marketing strategy is a critical aspect of any business plan. It involves the strategic layout of business plan, making it an integral part of a business plan outline. The section offers a business plan structure example, emphasizing the importance of a well-defined marketing plan . It explores the basics of a business plan, including what is a business plan outline and the format of a basic business plan. By outlining a business model and detailing the format for a business plan, this section provides a comprehensive guide to developing an effective marketing strategy within the broader business plan.

Management Team In the management team section, we outline the key individuals crucial to the business’s success. This includes an outline for business plan, giving an example of the roles and structure within a business plan. It emphasizes the importance of a well-structured business plan layout, offering insights into the business plan headers and business plan breakdown. The section delves into the traditional business plan format, providing clarity on the standard business plan and the structure of a business plan. Understanding the basic business plan is essential for stakeholders, and this section ensures a clear outline of a business plan that adheres to business plan basics.

Financial Plan A comprehensive financial plan encompasses key elements such as sales forecasts, profit and loss statements, cash flow projections, and balance sheets. Additionally, it should provide clear assumptions underlying these projections. If seeking funding, outline the capital required for business launch, accompanied by a use of funds report outlining allocation in operations. Although not obligatory, a brief mention of the exit strategy can be prudent, offering a general overview of future business exit plans.

If you are looking for a business plan outline example , you have come to the right place. The business plan outlines below will guide you through the majority of criterium for most audiences:

1 Executive Summary

1.1 Mission Statement

1.2 Vision Statement

2 Company Summary

2.1 Milestones

2.2 Critical Success Factors

3 Business Opportunity

3.1 The Problem

3.2 The Solution

4 Industry Analysis

4.1 Total Available Market

4.2 Market Growth Rate

4.3 Key Competitors

4.4 Market Trends

5 Business Model

5.1 Unique Selling Point

5.2 Revenue Streams

5.3 Business Pipeline

6 Marketing Strategy

6.1 SWOT Analysis

6.2 Target Audience

6.3 Key Channels

6.4 Audience Needs

6.5 Sales Plan

6.6 Key Metrics

7 Investment Proposal

7.1 Capital Allocations

8 Financial Projections

8.1 Opening Balance Sheet

8.2 Income Statement

8.3 Business Ratios

9 Organizational Structure

9.1 Management Team

9.2 Management Team Gaps

9.2 Key Personnel

9.3 Compensation Summary

10 Appendix

Your business outline should include the majority of the headings regardless of what you are applying for. At BSBCON , our dedicated team of experts is ready to assist you with your business plan needs. As a trusted consulting firm, we specialize in providing tailored solutions for your business’s success. Whether you’re starting a new venture or seeking to refine your existing plan, our team is committed to delivering results. Contact us today and let us guide you through the process. We offer a detailed proposal outlining our services, and with our business plan outline template, we ensure a comprehensive and effective approach. Let us help you turn your business vision into a reality.

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How to write a business plan (with examples)

By The IFTTT Team

June 13, 2023

So, you've decided to start a new business, or maybe next your company up to the next level. Either way, if you want to make it to the big leagues, it's a good idea to draft up a plan.

In this article, we will go over the useful process that is building up a traditional business plan. With a business plan, entrepreneurs unlock a whole variety of benefits, such as a better understanding of what steps to take toward success.

Also in this article, readers can view examples of well-thought-out business plans and marketing strategy, that led to some of the world's biggest companies today.

Lastly, we will go over our picks for the best services to help your new business get off the ground, and how IFTTT can help streamline your business today, no matter how small.

Should I make a business plan?

The first step in determining whether or not to create a business plan for your product or service is to assess the stage of your business idea.

If you are in the early stages of ideation, having a clear understanding of your target market, competition, and business model is essential. A business plan can help you organize your thoughts, identify gaps in your knowledge, and develop a roadmap for success.

Some might argue that there are some people who are already past the point of needing a business plan. Why would Elon Musk or Jeff Bezos need a business plan, if they are already so wealthy and accomplished?

Surprisingly, these two billionaires and many more pay entire teams of people to constantly create business plans to grow and network their companies.

Regardless of the stage of your product/company, having a well-written business plan can be incredibly helpful in setting yourself up for success.

Even those who don't own a business yet can follow the business plan model to better outline a hobby or project. Knowing how to outline your work and goals can be incredibly helpful for students, freelancers, or anyone who is looking to increase their productivity.

Is business planning hard?

Business planning can be perceived as hard due to the various aspects and details involved in the process. However, it is a crucial step in establishing a strong foundation for your business and setting it up for success.

A comprehensive business plan requires considering multiple aspects such as market research, competitive analysis, financial projections, marketing strategies, and operations. Ensuring all these components align with your overall goals can be challenging.

Predicting the future always involves some level of uncertainty. Making assumptions about market trends, customer behavior, and other factors can be difficult, and plans may need adjustments over time.

Developing a detailed business plan takes time and effort. Business planning often demands a diverse range of skills, including strategic thinking, financial analysis, market research, and effective communication. If you lack experience in these areas, the process may seem more challenging.

Benefits of a business plan outline

Without a doubt, one of the most effective ways to develop a business plan is to use a business plan outline.

Painters often say that the hardest part of a painting is putting down the first stroke on an empty canvas. The same is true with starting a business. When given a starting point, such as an online outline, it becomes easier to get the creative juices flowing and start jotting down some ideas.

Here are some of the main benefits of using a business plan outline:

Organization and structure: A business plan outline provides a clear framework for organizing your thoughts, ideas, and research, ensuring that all essential elements are covered and presented logically.

Efficiency: By following an outline, you can save time and effort by focusing on the most critical aspects of your business plan. It helps you avoid getting sidetracked or spending too much time on less important details.

Consistency and clarity: Using an outline can help you maintain consistency in your writing style, tone, and formatting throughout the document. This results in a clearer and more professional presentation of your ideas, which is particularly important when sharing your plan with investors or other stakeholders.

Easier review and editing: With a well-structured outline, it becomes easier to review, edit, and update your business plan as needed. You can quickly identify areas that require additional information or revisions, ensuring your plan remains accurate and relevant over time.

Why some choose to not use a business plan outline

Business plan outlines are amazing for those who are first-timers in the planning process. However, some entrepreneurs may prefer a more flexible and organic approach to business planning.

They might feel that following a strict outline constrains their creativity or ability to adapt the plan as new ideas or market conditions emerge.

Business plan outlines can seem complex and intimidating, especially for first-time entrepreneurs. This perception may discourage some from using an outline, even though it can ultimately simplify and streamline the planning process.

Hopefully, you will be convinced of the effectiveness of a business plan in the next paragraph, where we will go over how easy it truly is to formulate your first business plan.

How to use a business plan outline

A business plan outline serves as a framework to guide you through the process of creating a comprehensive and well-structured plan. Here's a suggested outline for a typical business plan:

Executive Summary

Include the following:

• Mission statement
• Company overview (brief)
• Product or service description (brief)
• Market Opportunity
• Objectives and goals
• Financial highlights

Company Description

• Legal structure (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, etc.)
• Company history
• Vision and mission statements
• Management team and key personnel
• Location and facilities

Market Analysis

• Industry analysis
• Market size and trends
• Growth potential
• Target market segment
• Demographics
• Needs and preferences
• Market segment size
• Market challenges and opportunities

Competitive Analysis

• Direct competitors (list and analyze)
• Indirect competitors (list and analyze)
• Competitive advantages and disadvantages
• Barriers to entry and exit

Marketing and Sales Strategy

• Product or service positioning
• Pricing strategy
• Distribution channels
• Promotion and advertising strategy
• Sales process and strategy

Product or Service Line

• Detailed product or service description
• Features and benefits
• Unique selling points or intellectual property
• Future development plans (if applicable)

Operations and Management

• Operational processes and workflow
• Supply chain management
• Production methods and facilities
• Quality control measures
• Staffing requirements and training
• Administrative processes

Financial Projections

• Projected income statement (3-5 years)
• Projected cash flow statements (3-5 years)
• Projected balance sheet (3-5 years)
• Break-even analysis
• Financial assumptions and justifications

Appendices and Supporting Documents

• Resumes of key management team members
• Market research data
• Financial statements (if applicable)
• Legal documents (e.g., contracts, agreements, licenses)
• Any other relevant information

Remember, this outline is a starting point and can be adapted to suit your specific business needs. The most important aspect is to ensure that your plan covers all the essential topics and provides a clear and comprehensive picture of your business's goals, strategies, and financial expectations.

Successful business plan examples

It's also helpful to look at successful business plan examples to get a better sense of what and how to present your own.

Apple's executive summary

Apple, which is now one of the world's biggest corporations, developed an excellent executive summary for their 2016 stock report, compliments of Rutger's Business School;

"Apple Inc is one of the most iconic companies of the recent decade. Apple has not only been developing and selling great products. More importantly the company has been building an incredible platform and an ecosystem for its loyal users within which it could further sell apps and services."

"The company is not immune to general market trends and some of the product sales are slowing down either due to markets maturing (e.g. smartphones) or due to a general industry decline (e.g. music players and computers)."

"Apple has a formidable competition within well established and well financed companies such as Alphabet, Samsung, Amazon, HP as well as newcomers from China like Huawei and Xiaomi.

"Despite strong competition the company managed to grow and thrive within its industries and enjoys one of the best balance sheets and financial metrics among its peers."

Verizon's competition section

Verizon, a massive mobile service and wifi provider across the United States, is often analyzed by financial experts to provide insight into stock prices. A student presented an excellent paragraph about its competition to the Minnesota State University in 2018;

"Verizon’s main three competitors are AT&T, T-Mobile US, Inc., and Sprint Corporation. One of Verizon’s competitive advantages is their high service quality which enhances brand image."

"Also, they have strong growth strategies which has shaped their overall approach to grow their business. To attract and retain customers, Verizon focuses on quality and differentiation. Verizon’s generic strategy is differentiating from its competitors."

Automating your business with IFTTT

Our automation platform IFTTT (If This Then That) is a great way for entrepreneurs to develop and promote their businesses in the digital world.

IFTTT works by connecting multiple platforms and services through APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). Users can create Applets by defining a specific trigger (the "If This" part) and an action (the "Then That" part). When the trigger occurs, IFTTT automatically performs the specified action.

IFTTT has been used by entrepreneurs to automate common tasks and create systems that help them stay organized or streamline processes. For example, with IFTTT you can create an applet that automatically posts new blog content on social media or sends a notification when an important email arrives.

You can also use IFTTT to create integrations between different services, such as linking your customer database with your website and setting up automated tasks that are triggered based on user actions. This helps you save time and energy so that you can focus on other aspects of your business.

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Business Plan Outline: Everything You Need To Know

A business plan outline is the structure you should follow and each business plan should contain specific information that details your operations. 3 min read updated on February 01, 2023

A business plan outline is the structure you should follow for this important document. Each business plan should contain specific information that details your operations, budget, marketing plan, staffing, and other key elements.

Executive Summary

Although this section will come first for readers of your business plan, you should write it last. It should pull together the highlights from each section of the plan and provide a quick summary that engages lenders, investors, and stakeholders. Your main points should be covered in two to three pages.

Business and Industry Overview

This section provides background information about your industry, including market trends, major competitors, and estimated sales. Is this industry declining, stable, or growing? What do experts predict the future holds in this industry? You should also provide information about how your company will fit into the industry.

Market Analysis

This section should cover your target market, including demographics, location, and needs and how those needs are currently met (or go unmet). The market analysis must demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of your target customers so that you can make accurate predictions about whether they will purchase your products and/or services. Your market analysis should be specific. For example, you aren't targeting all teenage girls; you're targeting all teenage girls who take dance lessons in a specific geographic region.

Competitive Analysis

This section should provide information about both your direct and indirect competitors. Evaluate their market advantage, and discuss your strategies to overcome barriers to market entry. You should also explain how your business will distinguish itself from competitors in order to succeed.

Sales and Marketing Plan

This should comprise a thorough discussion of your sales and marketing strategy , including promotional activities, pricing, and benefits of your products and services. You must create a unique selling proposition for your business that indicates the attraction for customers.

Your pricing strategy, which is included in the section, should:

• Provide a suggested price for your products or services.
• Offer comparison with competitor pricing.
• Explain the rationale behind your pricing.
• Show how this price will create profit.

Justifying a higher price for similar products offered by competitors can be challenging in a price-driven market.

One common pricing strategy is cost-plus pricing , in which you add a percentage margin to the cost of your product or service. This allows you to earn a guaranteed margin on every sale but could place your prices outside the range your target customers are willing to pay.

With benefit-driven pricing, you estimate the amount the customer will gain by using your product or service and set your price as a percentage of this gain. This is easiest when the product or service has a measurable benefit. This strategy allows you to maximize your pricing, but it can be challenging to find the right market price.

Ownership and Management Plan

This section details your executive and management team as well as the legal structure of your business. This should include both internal and external needs and resources as well as other human resource needs. If you plan to seek funding, make sure you have indicated the need for an advisory board.

Operating Plan

Here, you'll describe the physical location of your business, facilities, and equipment. This should also include the staffing needs, inventory requirements and suppliers, details about the manufacturing process, and other pertinent operations information.

Financial Plan

You'll need to comprehensively describe your business's funding requirements and provide complete financial statements and analysis. This includes your business's three main financial documents:

• Cash flow statement
• Income statement
• Balance sheet

Appendices and Exhibits

You should also append any other information that will lend credibility to your business idea. This includes:

• Marketing studies
• Patent applications
• Legal agreements
• Product photographs

Business cards, product packaging samples, floor plans, and other branding materials are also appropriate.

Finishing Touches

Your business plan should look like a formal, professional document. This is especially important if you are presenting the plan to potential lenders and investors. Make sure you proofread for grammar and spelling and use appropriate formatting and margins. If you provide paper copies of the plan, have them professionally printed and bound.

If you need help with your business plan outline, you can post your legal need on UpCounsel's marketplace. UpCounsel accepts only the top 5 percent of lawyers to its site. Lawyers on UpCounsel come from law schools such as Harvard Law and Yale Law and average 14 years of legal experience, including work with or on behalf of companies like Google, Menlo Ventures, and Airbnb.

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Content Approved by UpCounsel

• Creating a Business Plan
• How to Make a Business Plan Format
• Parts of Business Plan and Definition
• Business Description Outline
• Service Business Plan
• Business Plan Format: Everything you Need to Know
• Contents of a Business Plan
• IT Company Business Plan
• Business Plan Information
• Business Plan Contents Page

24 of My Favorite Sample Business Plans & Examples For Your Inspiration

Published: February 06, 2024

I believe that reading sample business plans is essential when writing your own.

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As you explore business plan examples from real companies and brands, it’s easier for you to learn how to write a good one.

But what does a good business plan look like? And how do you write one that’s both viable and convincing. I’ll walk you through the ideal business plan format along with some examples to help you get started.

Table of Contents

Business Plan Format

Business plan types, sample business plan templates, top business plan examples.

Ask any successful sports coach how they win so many games, and they’ll tell you they have a unique plan for every single game. To me, the same logic applies to business.

If you want to build a thriving company that can pull ahead of the competition, you need to prepare for battle before breaking into a market.

Business plans guide you along the rocky journey of growing a company. And if your business plan is compelling enough, it can also convince investors to give you funding.

With so much at stake, I’m sure you’re wondering where to begin.

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First, you’ll want to nail down your formatting. Most business plans include the following sections.

1. Executive Summary

I’d say the executive summary is the most important section of the entire business plan. 

Why? Essentially, it's the overview or introduction, written in a way to grab readers' attention and guide them through the rest of the business plan. This is important, because a business plan can be dozens or hundreds of pages long.

There are two main elements I’d recommend including in your executive summary:

Company Description

This is the perfect space to highlight your company’s mission statement and goals, a brief overview of your history and leadership, and your top accomplishments as a business.

Tell potential investors who you are and why what you do matters. Naturally, they’re going to want to know who they’re getting into business with up front, and this is a great opportunity to showcase your impact.

Need some extra help firming up those business goals? Check out HubSpot Academy’s free course to help you set goals that matter — I’d highly recommend it

Products and Services

To piggyback off of the company description, be sure to incorporate an overview of your offerings. This doesn’t have to be extensive — just another chance to introduce your industry and overall purpose as a business.

In addition to the items above, I recommend including some information about your financial projections and competitive advantage here too.:

Keep in mind you'll cover many of these topics in more detail later on in the business plan. So, keep the executive summary clear and brief, and only include the most important takeaways.

Executive Summary Business Plan Examples

This example was created with HubSpot’s business plan template:

This executive summary is so good to me because it tells potential investors a short story while still covering all of the most important details.

Image Source

Tips for Writing Your Executive Summary

• Start with a strong introduction of your company, showcase your mission and impact, and outline the products and services you provide.
• Clearly define a problem, and explain how your product solves that problem, and show why the market needs your business.
• Be sure to highlight your value proposition, market opportunity, and growth potential.
• Keep it concise and support ideas with data.
• Customize your summary to your audience. For example, emphasize finances and return on investment for venture capitalists.

Check out our tips for writing an effective executive summary for more guidance.

2. Market Opportunity

This is where you'll detail the opportunity in the market.

The main question I’d ask myself here is this: Where is the gap in the current industry, and how will my product fill that gap?

More specifically, here’s what I’d include in this section:

• The size of the market
• Current or potential market share
• Trends in the industry and consumer behavior
• Where the gap is
• What caused the gap
• How you intend to fill it

To get a thorough understanding of the market opportunity, you'll want to conduct a TAM, SAM, and SOM analysis and perform market research on your industry.

You may also benefit from creating a SWOT analysis to get some of the insights for this section.

Market Opportunity Business Plan Example

I like this example because it uses critical data to underline the size of the potential market and what part of that market this service hopes to capture.

Tips for Writing Your Market Opportunity Section

• Focus on demand and potential for growth.
• Use market research, surveys, and industry trend data to support your market forecast and projections.
• Add a review of regulation shifts, tech advances, and consumer behavior changes.
• Refer to reliable sources.
• Showcase how your business can make the most of this opportunity.

3. Competitive Landscape

Since we’re already speaking of market share, you'll also need to create a section that shares details on who the top competitors are.

After all, your customers likely have more than one brand to choose from, and you'll want to understand exactly why they might choose one over another.

My favorite part of performing a competitive analysis is that it can help you uncover:

• Industry trends that other brands may not be utilizing
• Strengths in your competition that may be obstacles to handle
• Weaknesses in your competition that may help you develop selling points
• The unique proposition you bring to the market that may resonate with customers

Competitive Landscape Business Plan Example

I like how the competitive landscape section of this business plan below shows a clear outline of who the top competitors are.

It also highlights specific industry knowledge and the importance of location, which shows useful experience in this specific industry. 

This can help build trust in your ability to execute your business plan.

Tips for Writing Your Competitive Landscape

• Complete in-depth research, then emphasize your most important findings.
• Compare your unique selling proposition (USP) to your direct and indirect competitors.
• Show a clear and realistic plan for product and brand differentiation.
• Look for specific advantages and barriers in the competitive landscape. Then, highlight how that information could impact your business.
• Outline growth opportunities from a competitive perspective.
• Add customer feedback and insights to support your competitive analysis.

4. Target Audience

Use this section to describe who your customer segments are in detail. What is the demographic and psychographic information of your audience?

If your immediate answer is "everyone," you'll need to dig deeper. Here are some questions I’d ask myself here:

• What demographics will most likely need/buy your product or service?
• What are the psychographics of this audience? (Desires, triggering events, etc.)
• Why are your offerings valuable to them?

I’d also recommend building a buyer persona to get in the mindset of your ideal customers and be clear on why you're targeting them.

Target Audience Business Plan Example

I like the example below because it uses in-depth research to draw conclusions about audience priorities. It also analyzes how to create the right content for this audience.

Tips for Writing Your Target Audience Section

• Include details on the size and growth potential of your target audience.
• Figure out and refine the pain points for your target audience , then show why your product is a useful solution.
• Describe your targeted customer acquisition strategy in detail.
• Share anticipated challenges your business may face in acquiring customers and how you plan to address them.
• Add case studies, testimonials, and other data to support your target audience ideas.
• Remember to consider niche audiences and segments of your target audience in your business plan.

5. Marketing Strategy

Here, you'll discuss how you'll acquire new customers with your marketing strategy. I’d suggest including information:

• Your brand positioning vision and how you'll cultivate it
• The goal targets you aim to achieve
• The metrics you'll use to measure success
• The channels and distribution tactics you'll use

I think it’s helpful to have a marketing plan built out in advance to make this part of your business plan easier.

Marketing Strategy Business Plan Example

This business plan example includes the marketing strategy for the town of Gawler.

In my opinion, it really works because it offers a comprehensive picture of how they plan to use digital marketing to promote the community.

Tips for Writing Your Marketing Strategy

• Include a section about how you believe your brand vision will appeal to customers.
• Add the budget and resources you'll need to put your plan in place.
• Outline strategies for specific marketing segments.
• Connect strategies to earlier sections like target audience and competitive analysis.
• Review how your marketing strategy will scale with the growth of your business.
• Cover a range of channels and tactics to highlight your ability to adapt your plan in the face of change.

6. Key Features and Benefits

At some point in your business plan, you'll need to review the key features and benefits of your products and/or services.

Laying these out can give readers an idea of how you're positioning yourself in the market and the messaging you're likely to use. It can even help them gain better insight into your business model.

Key Features and Benefits Business Plan Example

In my opinion, the example below does a great job outlining products and services for this business, along with why these qualities will attract the audience.

Tips for Writing Your Key Features and Benefits

• Emphasize why and how your product or service offers value to customers.
• Use metrics and testimonials to support the ideas in this section.
• Talk about how your products and services have the potential to scale.
• Think about including a product roadmap.
• Focus on customer needs, and how the features and benefits you are sharing meet those needs.
• Offer proof of concept for your ideas, like case studies or pilot program feedback.
• Proofread this section carefully, and remove any jargon or complex language.

7. Pricing and Revenue

This is where you'll discuss your cost structure and various revenue streams. Your pricing strategy must be solid enough to turn a profit while staying competitive in the industry. 

For this reason, here’s what I’d might outline in this section:

• The specific pricing breakdowns per product or service
• Why your pricing is higher or lower than your competition's
• (If higher) Why customers would be willing to pay more
• (If lower) How you're able to offer your products or services at a lower cost
• When you expect to break even, what margins do you expect, etc?

Pricing and Revenue Business Plan Example

I like how this business plan example begins with an overview of the business revenue model, then shows proposed pricing for key products.

Tips for Writing Your Pricing and Revenue Section

• Get specific about your pricing strategy. Specifically, how you connect that strategy to customer needs and product value.
• If you are asking a premium price, share unique features or innovations that justify that price point.
• Show how you plan to communicate pricing to customers.
• Create an overview of every revenue stream for your business and how each stream adds to your business model as a whole.
• Share plans to develop new revenue streams in the future.
• Show how and whether pricing will vary by customer segment and how pricing aligns with marketing strategies.
• Restate your value proposition and explain how it aligns with your revenue model.

8. Financials

To me, this section is particularly informative for investors and leadership teams to figure out funding strategies, investment opportunities, and more.

 According to Forbes , you'll want to include three main things:

• Profit/Loss Statement - This answers the question of whether your business is currently profitable.
• Cash Flow Statement - This details exactly how much cash is incoming and outgoing to give insight into how much cash a business has on hand.
• Balance Sheet - This outlines assets, liabilities, and equity, which gives insight into how much a business is worth.

While some business plans might include more or less information, these are the key details I’d include in this section.

Financials Business Plan Example

This balance sheet is a great example of level of detail you’ll need to include in the financials section of your business plan.

Tips for Writing Your Financials Section

• Growth potential is important in this section too. Using your data, create a forecast of financial performance in the next three to five years.
• Include any data that supports your projections to assure investors of the credibility of your proposal.
• Add a break-even analysis to show that your business plan is financially practical. This information can also help you pivot quickly as your business grows.
• Consider adding a section that reviews potential risks and how sensitive your plan is to changes in the market.
• Triple-check all financial information in your plan for accuracy.
• Show how any proposed funding needs align with your plans for growth.

As you create your business plan, keep in mind that each of these sections will be formatted differently. Some may be in paragraph format, while others could be charts or graphs.

The formats above apply to most types of business plans. That said, the format and structure of your plan will vary by your goals for that plan. 

So, I’ve added a quick review of different business plan types. For a more detailed overview, check out this post .

1. Startups

Startup business plans are for proposing new business ideas.

If you’re planning to start a small business, preparing a business plan is crucial. The plan should include all the major factors of your business.

You can check out this guide for more detailed business plan inspiration .

2. Feasibility Studies

Feasibility business plans focus on that business's product or service. Feasibility plans are sometimes added to startup business plans. They can also be a new business plan for an already thriving organization.

3. Internal Use

You can use internal business plans to share goals, strategies, or performance updates with stakeholders. In my opinion, internal business plans are useful for alignment and building support for ambitious goals.

4. Strategic Initiatives

Another business plan that's often for sharing internally is a strategic business plan. This plan covers long-term business objectives that might not have been included in the startup business plan.

5. Business Acquisition or Repositioning

When a business is moving forward with an acquisition or repositioning, it may need extra structure and support. These types of business plans expand on a company's acquisition or repositioning strategy.

Growth sometimes just happens as a business continues operations. But more often, a business needs to create a structure with specific targets to meet set goals for expansion. This business plan type can help a business focus on short-term growth goals and align resources with those goals.

Now that you know what's included and how to format a business plan, let's review some of my favorite templates.

1. HubSpot's One-Page Business Plan

Download a free, editable one-page business plan template..

The business plan linked above was created here at HubSpot and is perfect for businesses of any size — no matter how many strategies we still have to develop.

Fields such as Company Description, Required Funding, and Implementation Timeline give this one-page business plan a framework for how to build your brand and what tasks to keep track of as you grow.

Then, as the business matures, you can expand on your original business plan with a new iteration of the above document.

Why I Like It

This one-page business plan is a fantastic choice for the new business owner who doesn’t have the time or resources to draft a full-blown business plan. It includes all the essential sections in an accessible, bullet-point-friendly format. That way, you can get the broad strokes down before honing in on the details.

2. HubSpot's Downloadable Business Plan Template

We also created a business plan template for entrepreneurs.

The template is designed as a guide and checklist for starting your own business. You’ll learn what to include in each section of your business plan and how to do it.

There’s also a list for you to check off when you finish each section of your business plan.

Strong game plans help coaches win games and help businesses rocket to the top of their industries. So if you dedicate the time and effort required to write a workable and convincing business plan, you’ll boost your chances of success and even dominance in your market.

This business plan kit is essential for the budding entrepreneur who needs a more extensive document to share with investors and other stakeholders.

It not only includes sections for your executive summary, product line, market analysis, marketing plan, and sales plan, but it also offers hands-on guidance for filling out those sections.

3. LiveFlow’s Financial Planning Template with built-in automation

This free template from LiveFlow aims to make it easy for businesses to create a financial plan and track their progress on a monthly basis.

The P&L Budget versus Actual format allows users to track their revenue, cost of sales, operating expenses, operating profit margin, net profit, and more.

The summary dashboard aggregates all of the data put into the financial plan sheet and will automatically update when changes are made.

Instead of wasting hours manually importing your data to your spreadsheet, LiveFlow can also help you to automatically connect your accounting and banking data directly to your spreadsheet, so your numbers are always up-to-date.

With the dashboard, you can view your runway, cash balance, burn rate, gross margins, and other metrics. Having a simple way to track everything in one place will make it easier to complete the financials section of your business plan.

This is a fantastic template to track performance and alignment internally and to create a dependable process for documenting financial information across the business. It’s highly versatile and beginner-friendly.

It’s especially useful if you don’t have an accountant on the team. (I always recommend you do, but for new businesses, having one might not be possible.)

4. ThoughtCo’s Sample Business Plan

One of the more financially oriented sample business plans in this list, BPlan’s free business plan template dedicates many of its pages to your business’s financial plan and financial statements.

After filling this business plan out, your company will truly understand its financial health and the steps you need to take to maintain or improve it.

I absolutely love this business plan template because of its ease-of-use and hands-on instructions (in addition to its finance-centric components). If you feel overwhelmed by the thought of writing an entire business plan, consider using this template to help you with the process.

6. Harvard Business Review’s "How to Write a Winning Business Plan"

Most sample business plans teach you what to include in your business plan, but this Harvard Business Review article will take your business plan to the next level — it teaches you the why and how behind writing a business plan.

With the guidance of Stanley Rich and Richard Gumpert, co-authors of " Business Plans That Win: Lessons From the MIT Enterprise Forum ", you'll learn how to write a convincing business plan that emphasizes the market demand for your product or service.

You’ll also learn the financial benefits investors can reap from putting money into your venture rather than trying to sell them on how great your product or service is.

This business plan guide focuses less on the individual parts of a business plan, and more on the overarching goal of writing one. For that reason, it’s one of my favorites to supplement any template you choose to use. Harvard Business Review’s guide is instrumental for both new and seasoned business owners.

7. HubSpot’s Complete Guide to Starting a Business

If you’re an entrepreneur, you know writing a business plan is one of the most challenging first steps to starting a business.

Fortunately, with HubSpot's comprehensive guide to starting a business, you'll learn how to map out all the details by understanding what to include in your business plan and why it’s important to include them. The guide also fleshes out an entire sample business plan for you.

If you need further guidance on starting a business, HubSpot's guide can teach you how to make your business legal, choose and register your business name, and fund your business. It will also give small business tax information and includes marketing, sales, and service tips.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of starting a business, in addition to writing your business plan, with a high level of exactitude and detail. So if you’re in the midst of starting your business, this is an excellent guide for you.

It also offers other resources you might need, such as market analysis templates.

8. Panda Doc’s Free Business Plan Template

PandaDoc’s free business plan template is one of the more detailed and fleshed-out sample business plans on this list. It describes what you should include in each section, so you don't have to come up with everything from scratch.

Once you fill it out, you’ll fully understand your business’ nitty-gritty details and how all of its moving parts should work together to contribute to its success.

This template has two things I love: comprehensiveness and in-depth instructions. Plus, it’s synced with PandaDoc’s e-signature software so that you and other stakeholders can sign it with ease. For that reason, I especially love it for those starting a business with a partner or with a board of directors.

9. Small Business Administration Free Business Plan Template

The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers several free business plan templates that can be used to inspire your own plan.

Before you get started, you can decide what type of business plan you need — a traditional or lean start-up plan.

Then, you can review the format for both of those plans and view examples of what they might look like.

We love both of the SBA’s templates because of their versatility. You can choose between two options and use the existing content in the templates to flesh out your own plan. Plus, if needed, you can get a free business counselor to help you along the way.

I’ve compiled some completed business plan samples to help you get an idea of how to customize a plan for your business.

I chose different types of business plan ideas to expand your imagination. Some are extensive, while others are fairly simple.

Let’s take a look.

1. LiveFlow

One of the major business expenses is marketing. How you handle your marketing reflects your company’s revenue.

I included this business plan to show you how you can ensure your marketing team is aligned with your overall business plan to get results. The plan also shows you how to track even the smallest metrics of your campaigns, like ROI and payback periods instead of just focusing on big metrics like gross and revenue.

Fintech startup, LiveFlow, allows users to sync real-time data from its accounting services, payment platforms, and banks into custom reports. This eliminates the task of pulling reports together manually, saving teams time and helping automate workflows.

"Using this framework over a traditional marketing plan will help you set a profitable marketing strategy taking things like CAC, LTV, Payback period, and P&L into consideration," explains LiveFlow co-founder, Lasse Kalkar .

When it came to including marketing strategy in its business plan, LiveFlow created a separate marketing profit and loss statement (P&L) to track how well the company was doing with its marketing initiatives.

This is a great approach, allowing businesses to focus on where their marketing dollars are making the most impact. Having this information handy will enable you to build out your business plan’s marketing section with confidence. LiveFlow has shared the template here . You can test it for yourself.

2. Lula Body

Sometimes all you need is a solid mission statement and core values to guide you on how to go about everything. You do this by creating a business plan revolving around how to fulfill your statement best.

For example, Patagonia is an eco-friendly company, so their plan discusses how to make the best environmentally friendly products without causing harm.

A good mission statement  should not only resonate with consumers but should also serve as a core value compass for employees as well.

Patagonia has one of the most compelling mission statements I’ve seen:

"Together, let’s prioritise purpose over profit and protect this wondrous planet, our only home."

It reels you in from the start, and the environmentally friendly theme continues throughout the rest of the statement.

This mission goes on to explain that they are out to "Build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, and use business to protect nature."

Their mission statement is compelling and detailed, with each section outlining how they will accomplish their goal.

4. Vesta Home Automation

This executive summary for a smart home device startup is part of a business plan created by students at Mount Royal University .

While it lacks some of the sleek visuals of the templates above, its executive summary does a great job of demonstrating how invested they are in the business.

Right away, they mention they’ve invested $200,000 into the company already, which shows investors they have skin in the game and aren’t just looking for someone else to foot the bill.

This is the kind of business plan you need when applying for business funds. It clearly illustrates the expected future of the company and how the business has been coming along over the years.

5. NALB Creative Center

This fictional business plan for an art supply store includes everything one might need in a business plan: an executive summary, a company summary, a list of services, a market analysis summary, and more.

One of its most notable sections is its market analysis summary, which includes an overview of the population growth in the business’ target geographical area, as well as a breakdown of the types of potential customers they expect to welcome at the store. 

This sort of granular insight is essential for understanding and communicating your business’s growth potential. Plus, it lays a strong foundation for creating relevant and useful buyer personas .

It’s essential to keep this information up-to-date as your market and target buyer changes. For that reason, you should carry out market research as often as possible to ensure that you’re targeting the correct audience and sharing accurate information with your investors.

Due to its comprehensiveness, it’s an excellent example to follow if you’re opening a brick-and-mortar store and need to get external funding to start your business .

6. Curriculum Companion Suites (CSS)

If you’re looking for a SaaS business plan example, look no further than this business plan for a fictional educational software company called Curriculum Companion Suites. 

Like the business plan for the NALB Creative Center, it includes plenty of information for prospective investors and other key stakeholders in the business.

One of the most notable features of this business plan is the executive summary, which includes an overview of the product, market, and mission.

The first two are essential for software companies because the product offering is so often at the forefront of the company’s strategy. Without that information being immediately available to investors and executives, then you risk writing an unfocused business plan.

It’s essential to front-load your company’s mission if it explains your "Why?" and this example does just that. In other words, why do you do what you do, and why should stakeholders care? This is an important section to include if you feel that your mission will drive interest in the business and its offerings.

7. Culina Sample Business Plan

Culina's sample business plan is an excellent example of how to lay out your business plan so that it flows naturally, engages readers, and provides the critical information investors and stakeholders need. 

You can use this template as a guide while you're gathering important information for your own business plan. You'll have a better understanding of the data and research you need to do since Culina’s plan outlines these details so flawlessly for inspiration.

8. Plum Sample Business Plan

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The Perfect Business Plan Layout & Outline

Written by Dave Lavinsky

The layout of a business plan is not an area where great imagination and creativity is needed or recommended. It should be a more or less straightforward task to layout or outline your plan, using industry standard practices which funders have become familiar with through thousands of business plans. Use the following steps to implement this standard layout and save creativity for your business venture within the plan.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

Start by getting your hands on a good business plan template. This will speed your time to completing your plan. Business plans generally start with an executive summary and company overview, move through background research and market analysis, customers, and competition, describe the company’s intended methods in the marketing plan and operation plan, show who’s on the management team, and conclude with the financial plan and appendices featuring full financial statements.

Use the business plan template to guide your understanding of each section and to see how they relate to each other. Don’t assume that any one example should dominate your understanding unless it comes from an extremely trusted source with a reputation for business plan expertise and success.

Business Page Layout Tips

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Sample Outline For Your Business Plan

1. executive summary.

Your executive summary is the most important part of your plan. It comes at the beginning and is the first thing potential investors or lenders will read. If they aren’t excited by what they see, they’ll unfortunately stop reading. So make sure your executive summary gives a quick overview of what your company does and explains, in an exciting tone, why your company will be successful.

In your Company Description, provide background on your company. When did you incorporate? What have you accomplished to date? Here you will let readers know the history of your business.

In the Market Analysis section of your business plan provide background on the industry in which you operate. Conduct market research to make this section concrete and compelling. Answer questions such as: how big is your industry? what trends are affecting it?

Here you will document your target market. How are they? How many are there? What are their likes and dislikes? Ideally you can provide comprehensive demographic and psychographic profiles of your target customers and show how your company’s product or service are ideally suited to their needs.

In this section of your business plan, document your key competitors. Explain their strengths and their weaknesses. Remember that investors and lenders expect you to have direct competitors. They just want to feel confident that despite them, you can still achieve lasting success.

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Your marketing strategy should primarily focus on the promotional methods you will use to attract new customers. Will you use search engine marketing? Will you employ radio ads? Document each of the promotional methods you will use.

This section of your plan should discuss the key roles that your company must expertly perform and your strategies for operational excellence. You must also outline the long-term milestones your company plans to accomplish and the key dates for each.

In your Management Team section, detail the key members of your team. Document their backgrounds and how their past experiences make them well suited to succeed in your organization.

Here you will layout the key assumptions used in creating your financial model and then provide topline results from your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow projections. If you are seeking funding, document the amount of funding you seek and the key uses for it.

In your Appendix, you will provide supporting information such as employee or customer agreements, store layouts, etc. You must also include your full, five-year financial projections.

By following the comprehensive business plan outline, you will ensure your plan is in the format investors and lenders expect.

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Business Page Layout FAQs

How do i lay out a business plan.

Laying out a well-crafted business plan is not, and should not, be complicated. You can lay out your business plan using our sample business plan outline discussed here . An organized business plan structure is key to a successful business plan.

What is a business plan outline?

A business plan outline allows you to organize your plan and present it in the format that’s most compelling to readers. Also, by starting with your outline, it’s easier to add the required information into the key elements of a comprehensive business plan.

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How to Write a Business Plan Outline

You have a great business idea, and you have been diligently planning your business, but it is mostly in your head.

You realize the importance of putting your plan on paper, but you have never written anything resembling a business plan and have no idea where to start.

You have looked at countless startup business plan outlines online, but they do not seem to agree with each other on format or flow, so how do you know you have found a good one?

The best startup business plan outline defines the steps necessary to launch a new business. 

A professional business plan consultant is uniquely positioned to help you devise a list of goals that will clearly lay out each milepost from the start of your business to its successful operation.

Note: There is no absolute right or wrong way to write a business plan, and these sections do not have to be in any particular order.

Parts of a Business Plan Outline

• Executive Summary

Product & Service Description

• Market Analysis
• Competitor Analysis
• Competitive Advantages
• SWOT Analysis
• Target Market
• Marketing Strategy
• Management Team

Financial Projections

Business plan outline template, start a business plan with business plan outline, business plan structure, title page & table of contents, faqs about business plan outline.

• Problem statement
• How you will solve this problem
• Target Market, who will buy your products or services
• A brief introduction to the competition
• Financial plan summary
• Investment requirements
• Key achievements and milestones
• The problem you’ll solve
• How your product or service will solve the problem
• Show your product is a good match for the problem
• Product overview
• The competitive advantage of your product
• Research and development plan
• Business Plan Examples
• Customer groups and market segmentation
• Buyer Persona
• Market growth prospects
• Competitors and alternatives for your product or service
• You have not done sufficient research
• You are deliberately misleading
• There is no market for your business idea
• Direct and indirect competitors
• Product/service alternatives in the market
• Your competitive advantage or how you’ll win the market
• How your product or service is better than the competition
• How you will maintain this advantage
• Can you create or enhance your competitive advantage?
• Size of your Target market
• Ideal customer
• Dynamics of your target market
• The growth trajectory for new businesses in your target market

Business Plan Writers

Write your plan with the help of expert

• Marketing Plan
• The marketing tools you will use
• Budget for the marketing strategy
• Short-term and long-term goals of your marketing strategy
• Management team introduction
• Management team gaps
• Personnel Plan or who you will need to hire
• Key people on your team
• Revenue and Sales Forecast data
• Expected expenses
• Profit and loss projection
• Cash flow projection
• Projected balance sheet
• How you’ll use funds
• Problem Statement 
• Target Market Description 
• Competition Analysis 
• Financial Summary 
• Funding Requirements for Business 
• Milestones and Traction of your Business 
• Business Location 
• Company History 
• Product and Services Brief
• Short-term and long-term business goals 
• Spot Direct and Indirect Competitors 
• SWOT Analysis for Competitors 
• Competitors and alternatives
• Competitive advantage 
• Market Segmentation
• Target market segment strategy
• Market needs
• Market trends
• Market growth
• Key customers / Customer persona
• Future markets or Growth Plan 
• Solution of the Problem with our Product or Service 
• Validation of Problem and Solution. 
• Product Overview
• Product Competition Analysis 
• Roadmap/Future Plans for Product Development 
• Business Goals 
• Assign Responsibilities and Tasks
• Outline Resources 
• Sole Proprietorship/LLC/LLP/Corp
• Revenue and Sales Forecast
• Projected Profit and Loss
• Projected Cash Flow
• Projected Balance Sheet
• Personnel Plan
• Use of Funds
• Location and Facilities Description
• Technology or Marketing Methods 
•  Equipment and tools for Marketing

Thinking About Writing a Business Plan

write your own plan with the help of these 7 simple steps

Trying to create all of these sections for your business plan may seem overwhelming. 

Just remember that a business plan is intended to be a roadmap that can be adjusted as you monitor the results of your business, so none of this is set in stone.

You can also download our 300+ free business plan templates covering a wide range of industries.

A good business plan consultant should be equipped to research and format data that will outline projected sales, profits and losses, cash flow, and the balance sheet. 

The business plan should include any tables that are industry-specific or necessary, and close with appendices that outline projections for the first year of operations.

A professional business plan writer can create an easy-to-follow and implement the best startup business plan outline that you can confidently take to investors and loan officers. It will stand up under even the most rigorous scrutiny.

Want to write a business plan?

Get our business plan writing service now!

Your business will start with a table of content, no matter when you write it.

The title page should be designed well and look professional. You may need to hire a designer for creating your business plan title page . However, you can also make use of our business plan title page designs.  

Access our free business plan examples now!

The goal of a business plan is to effectively present your business idea to potential investors.

Keep the structure of your business plan in a logical way so that everyone can understand your business idea by the end of the business plan.

Use our business plan outline to structure your business plan well.

A business plan outline shows sections and subsections of your business plan.

A business plan outline will include these sections.

• Product and Service Description
• Financial Analysis and Projections

Articles & Templates Related to Business Plans

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Hire WiseBusinessPlans’ Plan writers if you need a business plan writer !

A business plan outline is a structured framework that helps entrepreneurs organize their thoughts and ideas into a comprehensive document. It serves as a roadmap for the business, outlining its goals, strategies, financial projections, and other key details.

A business plan outline provides clarity and direction for the business owner and potential stakeholders. It helps to identify potential risks and challenges, set realistic goals, attract investors or lenders, and serve as a reference point for decision-making and business growth.

The key components of a business plan outline typically include an executive summary, company description, market analysis, product or service offering, marketing and sales strategy, organizational structure, financial projections, and a conclusion.

To create a business plan outline, start by defining your business idea and conducting market research. Then, organize your thoughts into sections based on the key components mentioned earlier. Write concise summaries for each section, focusing on the most important information.

Yes, there are various templates and resources available online that can guide you in creating a business plan outline. These templates provide a structure and prompts for each section, making it easier to organize your thoughts and ensure you include all the necessary information.

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First of all, Your blog is well-written. Secondly, I want to say that A business outline is very important. I wanted one for my business. Could your team help us?

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How To Write a Business Plan: A Step-by-Step Guide (2024)

Navigate the complex landscape of LLC formation and entrepreneurship with our in-depth guide on how to write a business plan.

To set your new business on the path to success, you’ll need to create a roadmap, formally known as a business plan. According to a 2021 study from the New England Journal of Entrepreneurship , the act of writing a business plan was correlated with measures of growth and success. Embracing the power of strategic planning is a good step toward ensuring the prosperity of your venture. 

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the process of writing an effective business plan and explain why it’s a powerful tool for launching your business, no matter what stage of business formation you are in.

How To Write a Business Plan

1. write a strong executive summary.

Start your business plan with an executive summary. This should be a high-level overview of your business, including the company’s name, location, mission statement and planned products or services. Though it comes first, you might find it easier to write this part last. 

For startups seeking investment, the executive summary is particularly important because it’s the first chance to grab the investor’s attention and generate interest in your business. It should be clear, concise and compelling, and highlight why the business is destined to succeed. 

2. Provide a Company Description

A company description gives readers — who might also include potential investors or partners — a clear understanding of what the company does. It is also an opportunity to communicate the unique attributes of your business and how your offerings meet the needs of the current market. 

Your company description should include the following: 

• Formal name
• Physical address
• Type of business structure (such as an LLC , Inc. or sole proprietorship) 
• Mission statement 
• Target market 
• Brief history 
• Future outlook 

3. Share Market Analysis 

Here, you should present your research on the industry. By providing a thorough analysis, you demonstrate to potential investors and lenders that you have a unique point of view of the space in which your business operates. 

The market analysis should include the following: 

• Industry overview
• Primary audience, including demographic and psychographic profiles 
• Market needs, trends and growth 
• Competitor analysis via market share

4. Outline the Product or Service  

In this part, elaborate on what you’re selling or what service you’re providing. The purpose of this section is to make a compelling case for your offering and how it meets the needs of your target market. 

The outline of the product or service should include the following: 

• Product or service overview describing key features and how it works
• Customer benefit and competitive advantage 
• Development stage of the offering 
• Pricing strategy 
• Life cycle 
• Intellectual property such as patents, trademarks or copyrights 

5. Describe the Marketing and Sales Strategy 

This is where you outline your plan for attracting and retaining customers. The marketing and sales strategy section should include the following: 

• Target market needs and motivations
• Brand positioning 
• Sales/marketing strategy
• Distribution channels 
• Targeted/secured marketing partnerships 
• Outsourcing needs 
• Customer retention 

6. Present Important Financials  

If you’re seeking funding, explain how much you need over the next five years and what you plan to use it for. You should include forecasted income statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements and capital expenditure budgets.

7. Include Additional Details in a Concise Appendix 

This section is optional but could include resumes of key employees, letters of recommendation, job descriptions and organization hierarchy, contracts, legal information and other relevant documents.

Importance of a Business Plan

A business plan serves as a strategic blueprint for how your company will operate, grow and overcome potential challenges. It is critical for communicating the business’s viability to potential investors, partners and stakeholders.  

A well-thought-out business plan serves several purposes, including the following:

Drives Investment 

A clear business plan can attract potential funding sources to your business. By articulating your business model, strategy and financial projections, you are demonstrating the overall profitability of your venture. Evidence of financial viability is essential for investors. 

Establishes a Roadmap

Your business plan acts as a roadmap, keeping your business on track and measuring progress. At its core, a business plan outlines the mission, vision and key objectives, which will direct all subsequent strategies. It will also set key benchmarks and guide decision-making.  

Attracts Partners 

A clear and detailed business plan is often instrumental in attracting partners or key employees. When writing a business plan, think about how a potential partner might see themselves fitting in with your strategies or company history. A business plan can be extremely persuasive when a partner can identify shared goals or culture alignment.

The Bottom Line

Creating a business plan is a vital step in launching a successful business, no matter what stage of formation you are in. It requires careful planning and critical thinking, but the payoff is a clear roadmap for your business’s future. Remember to keep your plan dynamic and revisit it as your business grows and evolves.

Consider consulting with a business professional or mentor to ensure your plan is thorough and ready to present to potential investors and stakeholders.

Frequently Asked Questions About Writing a Business Plan

What is a business plan?

A business plan is a document that outlines your business goals, the strategies you will employ to meet these goals and the time frame within which you plan to achieve them.

How long should a business plan be?

A typical business plan can range from 15 to 25 pages. However, this can vary significantly depending on the type and complexity of the business.

How often should I update my business plan?

You should update your business plan at least annually or when any major changes occur internally or in the market.

Do I need a business plan?

While many states don’t require a business plan during the registration process, it’s generally a good practice to have one. However, if you’re unsure about the specific requirements in your state, it’s recommended to consult with local business authorities, such as your state’s Secretary of State office or Small Business Development Center (SBDC), to get accurate and up-to-date information. Check out our all-inclusive, state-specific LLC formation guides below.

More From Forbes

Business plan outline - 23 point checklist for success.

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If you’re looking for funding for a new or existing business, you need a business plan. Your business plan gives lenders and investors the information they need to determine whether or not they should consider your company.

Your business plan outline is the first step in organizing your thoughts. And, when you follow the outline below, you ensure your business plan is in the format that prompts investors and lenders to take action.

In the business plan outline below, you will see the ten (10) sections common to business plans, and the twenty-three (23) sub-sections you must complete. Also, to help you out, here is my proven business plan template , that allows you to quickly and easily complete all the sections of your business plan.

Section I - Executive Summary

1 - Executive Summary

The Executive Summary is the most important part of your business plan. Because if it doesn’t interest readers, they’ll never even get to the rest of your plan.

Start your Executive Summary with a brief and concise explanation of what your company does. Next, explain why your company is uniquely qualified to succeed. For example, does your management team have unique competencies? Do you have any patents? Are you the first mover in your market? Does a huge, unmet market opportunity exist? Etc.

Finally, include a synopsis of your financial projections in your Executive Summary. Specifically, include your expected revenues, expenses and profits for each of the next five years, how much funding you are seeking, and the key uses of these funds.

Section II - Company Overview

2 - Company Overview

The Company Overview section provides a brief history of your company.

Here you will answer questions such as when and how your organization was formed, what type of legal entity you are, and accomplishments to date.

Importantly, your past accomplishments are perhaps the best indicator of potential future success, so be sure to identify and include all key milestones your company has achieved to date.

Section III - Industry Analysis

Your Industry Analysis section has two sub-sections as follows:

3 - Market Overview

The Market Overview section discusses the size and characteristics of your market. For example, if you are a restaurant, you would include the size of the restaurant market, a brief discussion of sectors (e.g., fast food versus fine dining) and market trends.

4 - Relevant Market Size

The relevant market size is a much more specific calculation of your market size. It is the annual revenue your company could attain if it attained 100% market share. Your relevant market size is calculated by multiplying 1) the number of customers who might be interested in purchasing your products and/or services each year and 2) the amount these customers might be willing to spend, on an annual basis, on your products and/or services.

Section IV - Customer Analysis

Your Customer Analysis section has two sub-sections as follows:

5 - Target Customers

Your Target Customers section precisely identifies your current and/or intended customers. Include as much demographic data on your target customers as possible, such as their gender, age, salary, geography, marital status and education.

6 - Customer Needs

In this section of your business plan, specify why customers want or need your products and/or services. For example, do customers care most about speed, quality, location, reliability, comfort, price, value, etc.?

Section V - Competitive Analysis

Your Competitive Analysis section has three sub-sections as follows:

7 - Direct Competitors

Direct competitors are companies that fill the same customer need you fill with the same solution. For example, if you operate an Italian restaurant, other Italian restaurants would be direct competitors.

In this section of your business plan, outline who your direct competitors are, and their strengths and weaknesses.

8 - Indirect Competitors

Indirect competitors are companies that fill the same customer need you fill with a different solution. For example, if you operate an Italian restaurant, a French restaurant would be an indirect competitor.

In this section of your business plan, outline who your indirect competitors are, and their strengths and weaknesses.

9 - Competitive Advantages

Importantly, identify your Competitive Advantages in this section. Specifically, state what is it about your company that will allow you to effectively compete (and win) against both direct and indirect competitors.

Section VI - Marketing Plan

Your Marketing Plan section has four sub-sections as follows:

10 - Products & Services

Here is where you give the details of the products and/or services your company offers.

11 - Pricing

Detail your pricing here. In particular, discuss how your pricing relates to competition. For example, are you the premium brand? The low cost brand?

Discuss your expected branding based on your chosen pricing model.

12 - Promotions Plan

Your promotions plan details the tactics you will use to attract new customers. For example, you might choose radio advertising, or online pay-per-click ads, or press releases, and so on. In this section, detail each form of promotions you will use.

13 - Distribution Plan

Your Distribution Plan outlines the ways in which customers can buy from you. In many cases, they can only buy directly from you, perhaps at your physical location or web address. In other cases, you might have distributors or partners who sell your products or services. In such a case, detail this structure.

Section VII - Operations Plan

Your Operations Plan section has two sub-sections as follows:

14 - Key Operational Processes

Your Key Operational Processes are the daily functions your business must conduct. In this section, you will detail these functions. For example, will you maintain a Customer Service department? If so, what specific role will it fill?

By completing this section, you’ll get great clarity on the organization you hope to build.

15 - Milestones

In this section of your business plan, list the key milestones you hope to achieve in the future and the target dates for achieving them.

Here is where you set goals for specific and critical undertakings, such as when a new product will be created and launched, by when you plan to execute new partnerships, etc.

Section VIII - Management Team

Your Management Team section has three sub-sections as follows:

16 - Management Team Members

This section details the current members of your management team and their backgrounds.

17 - Management Team Gaps

Particularly if you’re a startup venture, you will have holes in your team; roles that you’d like to fill later. Identify such roles here, and the qualifications of the people you will seek later to fill them.

18 - Board Members

If you maintain a Board of Advisors or Board of Directors, detail your Board members and their bios in this section.

Section IX - Financial Plan

Your Financial Plan section has four sub-sections as follows:

19 - Revenue Model

As simple as it seems, this section of your business plan gives clarity on how you generate revenues. Do you sell products? Do you sell advertising space? Do you sell by-products, like data? Do you sell all of the above?

20 -  Financial Highlights

Your full financial model (income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement) belong in your Appendix, but in this section you’ll include the highlights. For instance, include your revenues, key expenses, and projected net income for the next five years.

21 - Funding Requirements/Use of Funds

If you are seeking funding for your company, detail the amount here, and importantly for what you will use the funds.

22 - Exit Strategy

Particularly if you are seeking equity funding, detail your expected exit strategy. The most likely exit strategy is to sell your company to a larger firm. If so, detail the types of firms that might be interested in purchasing you and why. List the specific names of potential acquirers if applicable.

Section X - Appendix

23 - Supporting Documentation

As mentioned above, your full financial model (income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement) belong in your appendix.

Likewise, include any supporting documentation that will help convince readers your company will succeed. For example, include customer lists, awards, and patents received among others.

I hope this business plan outline has helped you organize your thoughts and answer the key questions needed to start and grow a successful business. While twenty-three sections seems like a lot, if you complete them one at a time, you can make progress and finish your entire plan quickly and effectively. Likewise, feel free to use my proven business plan template to complete your business plan.

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Writting a business plan can be a springboard exercise for your business, and it's not as difficult as people think. All it takes is a bit of method, and some efficient tools. The good news our free articles and paid course have you covered!

Resources on Business Plan Writing :

An article of the Accelerated MBA written by:

Antoine Martin (Ph.D) | Business coach

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In this article:

Business plan outline, business plan format… what does a business plan look like.

Working on a business plan isn’t easy for most business owners. Still, on many occasions, small businesses have no choice but to go through the process. And, when they do that, they get confronted with questions related to outline and formatting.

As entrepreneurs and business coaches ourselves, we know the significance of this issue. We know that it tends to get people stuck real bad. And we know that the impact can be pretty bad from a time, money, and motivation perspective.

So, we decided to share a few business coaching tips that have proven helpful to our clients (and to us).

Far from being “just” a matter of aesthetics, the outline and the format of a business plan are two critical points. Why? Because an effective business plan must follow a code, your audience will expect you to know that code, and your job is to make the most of it.

In this article, I am going to explain the ins and outs of business plan construction and delivery, and I’ll give you tons of tips as to how you can make the most of that code.

I will talk about outlines and list the typical components of a business plan you really can’t miss. Then I’ll talk about formatting and looks.

I’ll also give you some tips on efficient presentation. And I’ll finish with some thoughts on pitching and storytelling that you a-bso-lu-tely need to consider if you want to give your business a chance.

Before we dig into the topic, though, please keep in mind three important points!

First, this article will not explain what business plans are and why they are important to your business . Long story short, a business plan is a storytelling tool that you should use to do some serious business planning, and it is pretty pointless if you don’t have a business with a plan in the first place. I have comprehensively covered this topic in a previous article, so please follow the link I just provided if you need a refresh.

Second, this article is part of a comprehensive series of blog posts on business plan writing that we’ve made available on Impactified . We’re trying to make your life easier with these, so give them a look!

Third, if you wonder how to write your business plan without losing your time and breaking the bank, search no more. Our best-selling Business Plan Builder tool and video tutorials are what you need.

The module includes a complete business plan template, two designer-made decks, a work tool to get you started and tell you what to write (and how), the automated financial tables you’ve been dreaming of, and over two hours of video that take you by the hand! So if writing a business plan is a topic for you, you have no excuse!

Now, back to our topic: business plan outline, business plan format, what does a business plan look like, and how can you ensure that yours will make sense?

What Does a Business Plan Look Like?

So, first things first, what does a business plan look like? As I’ve said earlier, a business plan is essentially a document that tells a reader everything you want them to know about your business. Still, the point is not to just produce a bland business description or a complicated set of financial statements.

Did you notice I just wrote “everything you want them to know”, not “everything they want to know”? That’s because the point of the exercise is to use the document as a teaser. That teaser then gets you into a more profound series of discussions in which you have the time to get into the details and answer the questions they want to ask.

Said differently? A business plan is based on two primary dimensions: the outline and the formatting.

What difference is there between outline and formatting?

You see where I’m going here: outlines and formatting are two different things you can’t afford to confuse. Can you tell what that difference is about, though?

First, the outline relates to the substance you want to provide and communicate . A business plan outline typically follows a very codified set of rules that business owners tend to follow because investors, bankers, and partners expect these rules to be followed to save time and get straight to the point in their discussions. See it as a guide!

Second, formatting relates to how you package and present the information to your audience.

I’m not talking about ordering the topics correctly here – that’s the outline part. What matters with business plan formatting is the length of the document and the way it is written and illustrated. Not to forget, of course, your ability to shape and reshape the same content into different types of documents depending on whom you are talking to.

Typically, your outline (the various topics to be discussed) won’t change. Still, it has to be displayed in a comprehensive report format or into a very synthetic set of slides that you’ll be able to use as a pitch deck.

A business plan is a document that:

• Outlines the characteristic points of your business following a very codified set of topics
• These topics can be displayed in different formats (comprehensive report or pitch deck) depending on your interlocutor.

How do I build a business plan outline that makes sense?

Now. Having clarified the difference between business plan outline and business plan formatting, let’s dig into each point separately. Starting with defining an outline that makes sense.

Key takeaway: a business plan outline should give your document a structure that’s easy to follow by the reader because the topics follow each other and flow from each other.

Because the structure is logical, the reader can read the document in depth or skim through it. Whatever their choice, the story should be logical and easy to process, understand and remember.

There is a catch here, however.

You can only achieve a satisfactory result if you ditch the usual BS (excuse my French) to focus on the real stake: business planning and business development.

Ditching the BS to focus on the real issue

Before I give you the typical outline you should be using in your document, let me (re)clarify an essential point I made in another article where I explained what your business plan should be about.

Nobody gives a damn about your business plan if all it is a plan without a business.

There you go. A business plan is only a tool. And while most business owners try to get rid of the exercise as fast as possible, you should use it as the best opportunity ever to write a strategic plan for your business and set a direction .

Yet, most business owners do things the other way around. And they struggle with defending their project (and raising capital for that matter) because storytelling is only possible if you have a story to tell.

The 7 components of a business plan outline that convert

Having clarified this, the business community has over time codified what needs to be in a business plan outline , so you don’t have that much wiggle room.

In fact, the only way is to follow a code, and the code says that your business plan should include the following seven components:

• An executive summary
• A big picture presentation of the issue solved by the business
• A description of your offering
• A go-to-market strategy presentation
• An operations presentation
• A team presentation
• Your financial projections and the corresponding financial documents & cash flow projections

Now, this structure is there for a reason.

When put together in this specific order, these points are the seven key components of a business plan outline that converts people. Why? because they tell a story that flows and can be processed quickly by whoever reads the document . Even if they are not a professional investor.

Business idea, products and services description, target market and target customers, market research, market analysis and competitive analysis, marketing plan, sales projections, management team, financial plan (P&L, cash flow statements, and balance sheet)… All that has to become exciting and inspiring.

Shameless plug: if you are looking for simple business plan templates that (i) guides you through the whole process with a working document, (ii) tells you precisely what to focus on for each of the points we just listed, (iii) provides you with a set of designer-made outputs, and (iv) comes with two hours of explanatory videos by a business coach – then The Impactified Business Plan Builder module is the tool you need. Give it a try!

How to write a business plan outline that converts?

• Make sure to identify the 7 typical components of a business plan outline
• Answer each point precisely
• Link each element to the next to tell the reader a logical story

Should I keep the business plan sections in that specific order?

Typical question but very relevant nonetheless.

Yes, you should keep the business plan sections I just provided in that specific order. Why? Because, as I just said, it gives a logical structure to tell a story about your business.

Now, of course, this structure gives you your final business plan outline. Still, you can always deal with the various points in the order you prefer as far as preparation is concerned . As long as the final document follows the code, you should be fine.

Having said this, we always suggest that you start from the big picture, explain the problem and the solution, then the strategy and the operations. It’s not always obvious, but writing your executive summary last also makes a lot of sense.

The same applies as far as the financial projections and financial planning part of the business plan is concerned: feel free to work on it at your own pace, but follow the code and give your reader what they expect.

And again – forgive the repetition here – the point is not to write some BS to get rid of a tedious exercise. It is to figure out what makes your business worth putting money into, and it is to show whomever you are trying to convince that you have (i) a business and (ii) a real plan for that business.

So? Leverage the code!

A reminder of the typical business plan sections

• Your financial projections and the corresponding financial documents

Is there a typical business plan format?

All right! So, now that we have clarified the business plan outline stakes, let’s move to the second focus point: the typical business plan format you’ll want to use.

As I’ve mentioned before, there is what needs to be in a business plan, and there is the way to package and display that information in a way that conveys the right message.

This point is critical but often overlooked by business owners who want to save time and costs. That’s a shame, though, because by doing this, they deprive themselves of a real opportunity to be read, listened to, and taken seriously.

Think about it for a second.

Imagine your potential investor or banker and then walk a mile in their shoes. Is your business plan the only one they will have to read today? Probably not.

So, tell me. What’s going to happen to your document if it is nothing more than a bland and neverending pdf amongst a dozen or more?

Hmm. See my point?

Awesome. So, well, here are two hints you might want to consider and leverage.

Hint one: make your business plan sexy to read

Forget the traditional business plan document printed in black on white that never ends and puts you under the pile (not to say in the bin) because it wasn’t written with a specific reader in mind.

Instead, opt for a short version, with illustrations and as little text as possible, designed to be read easily. Your business plan needs to be a sexy read!

One page for one topic.

Minimal amounts of text – calibrated to send a precise message.

And some powerful storytelling that makes people want to ask more questions about your business. That’s it!

Hint two: adapt your business plan to your audience

You really want to adapt your business plan’s format to your audience.

Bankers don’t think like investors. Bankers want to be repaid fast and want stability. In contrast, investors want to see potential because they invest in making a profit later on.

Hence, a business plan written to obtain a bank loan should not be written like a business plan written for an investor . And your job is to adapt your storytelling to ensure the right message is conveyed to the right interlocutor.

Likewise, adapt the length and the style of your document . Some will want to read a report-shaped document that gives information to chew on. Others will prefer a one-page business plan or a slide-based pitch deck that only gives a big picture summary of your project  business proposal.

Shameless plug (yes, again), the Impactified Business Plan Builder contains a set of videos that will explain all those nuances in detail. And it will provide you with the tools you need to (i) build a calibrated document that goes to the point and (ii) put it in shape with very visual and fully customizable designer-made templates.

In the end, formatting depends very much on the audience you have in mind and is totally up to you.

But, since you are reading this page, our suggestion to you is very straightforward: avoid endless pages of black text on a white page, opt for a designer-made template, and make sure to calibrate your content to convey a message they will remember rather than a message they’ll send to the bottom of the pile. Period.

What is the typical business plan format?

• It depends on the reader’s expectation (report, one-page, pitch deck)
• Avoid endless pages of black text on white pages
• Opt for a designer-made template
• Make sure to calibrate your text to convey a message they will remember

5 Tips for an efficient business plan presentation

So, I’m nearly done here, but before we get to wrap things up, I wanted to give you five final tips for an efficient business plan presentation.

One, take the business plan outline suggestions we made previously very seriously. And make sure that your formatting shows off your outline with a clear design. One page, one topic, that’s it.

Two, define in advance what you expect from your business plan presentation. If the plan is to raise capital from an investor, do your research. Figure out what presentation style will work best for them (report, pitch deck, one page business plan), and make sure that they leave with a clear understanding of your story, otherwise, your company doesn’t stand a chance.

Three, give equal importance to the seven typical components of a business plan outline . Don’t overlook any of them because they all have a role to play. For example, if your business solves no specific problem or has no particular offering, investors will have no potential to see. And if you see a problem to solve but can’t show any convincing numbers, then there won’t be any potential either.

Four, as much as possible, avoid working on a business plan at the last minute, just because you need money . No, you can’t avoid that step. Still and again, the point is not to produce a quick pdf. It is to show that you have a viable business, with a viable plan. And your job is to turn that into a very clear and very inspiring storytelling opportunity!

Last but not least, train, train, and train more! A good business plan presentation depends on the quality of your content. Still, the way you convey the message is also critical, and repeating your pitch multiple times makes the difference in the end. Investors look for leading and inspiring partners, not boring ones!

5 business plan presentation tips

• Leverage the typical outline, and format it properly
• Know what you expect
• Don’t overlook any topic
• Build storytelling, storytelling, storytelling
• Train, train, train!

Wrap up: Set the proper business plan outline and build storytelling

Time to wrap up. Your business plan presentation will be seen as convincing if your pitch follows a codified logic people expect to hear and if it provides an inspiring story people will want to remember.

The good news is that you can’t have inspiring storytelling without a logical outline that goes methodically through the essential components of a business plan. So, starting there will give you all the information, the logic, and the storytelling you need! Easy as 1, 2, 3!

The Business Plan Builder: 2 hours of tutorial videos and the tools you need to get started

And again, if you are looking for a push to get started with your business plan, we – at Impactified – have built The Business Plan Builder – THE tool you have been dreaming of.

The Builder comes very handily, in the shape of a Module built around over 2 hours of explanatory videos and a package you’ll be able to use to

• Figure out what you need to figure out – powerful, uh?
• Understand the business plan code
• Write your business plan – with just the right number of words and pages
• Build your financial estimates – with an automated table
• Create a visually appealing (designer-made!) document, and deck people will want to read

If you want to stop wasting your time, this is THE simplest business plan template, and you can’t afford to miss it!

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Topics related to Business Plan Outline, Business Plan Format… What Does a Business Plan Look Like?:

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Do I Need a Business Plan Consultant? No, You Don’t!

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The Complete Guide To A Business Plan Outline For 2024

A good business plan outline will help you start and run your business. It is a necessary document as a roadmap for structuring, operating, and growing your new business. The business plan outline can also help you obtain funding or attract partners. 

Your business plan outline is the tool you can use to convince others that you are worth working with or financing your business.

Make sure you have a good template for your business plan outline. This will make the time you spend writing the plan shorter and more accessible. 

A typical business plan outline may include background research, market analysis, customers, competitors, and advertising or operating methods strategies and concludes with financial data.

Choose an outline for your business plan that suits you. Most plans fall into one of the two categories: traditional or lean startup. Traditional business plans are more common and use standard structures. 

Lean business plans for startups are less common but use the same structure as the other types of business plans – they focus on summarizing only the critical points of the essential elements of your project. They usually take an hour or less to complete and can even be as little as one page long if you need to move quickly. 

Lean startup plans are quick to create and focus only on the essential elements you may need additional information.

Traditional Business Plan Outline 

Traditional business plan outlines are more common, use standard structures, and encourage you to go into detail in every section – they usually require more work upfront and can be dozens of pages long. It is detailed, takes more time to write, and is more comprehensive. Lenders and investors usually require this type of plan, but it can be time-consuming.

The outline below summarizes what each section of your business plan outline should contain. There is no definitive guide to creating the perfect business plan for your particular venture, as you may want to combine sections or add additional detail on a personal level. The idea is to paint the best possible picture and present yourself as attractive and professional, whatever that means to you.

1) Executive Summary

The executive summary is written at the end of a business plan outline, summarizing everything that was described earlier in the document. It offers an introduction and overview of your company’s mission statement, what product(s) or service(s) you offer, as well as highlights any pertinent industry background information.

Although the executive summary is essential in plans written for outsiders, depending on who your audience will be, many people will only read the executive summary and not go into detail. Others may look at the summary of a plan first to decide whether or not they want to read more about it. Therefore, it is important that a summary captures the reader’s attention. 

The general rule of thumb for an effective summary is that it should be as short as possible so that readers can get all the information they need quickly and easily; this usually means a maximum of 2 pages (though if you have absolutely no choice but to include additional information, you can include your cover page last).

Briefly explain to the reader what our company is and why it will be successful. Include the mission statement, product or service, and basic information about the leadership team responsible for running the company. You should also include financial information and high-level growth plans if you apply for funding. Keep the following pointers in mind while writing the abstract. 

A summary of the problem we are solving and an identifiable need in this market that we are addressing.

A description of the product/service that will solve the problem (explain).

Target Market: 

A defined customer base that is most likely to buy the products or services mentioned.

Competition

Current alternatives or substitutes are currently available to customers in this market. Present both types prominently, 

Financial Summary

Highlight critical points such as cost, revenue, and profitability. 

Target market

A defined customer base that is most likely to buy the product or service 

Funding Requirements

Provide a brief overview of how much money you will need to start your business . 

Milestones indicate where you are currently and what goals you hope to achieve later, also indicating funding needs if you are seeking investors for this project.

2) Business description

Use your business description to provide detailed information about your company. Go into detail about your business’s problems and list whom you plan to serve. Explain what makes your company successful and highlight its strengths over the competition. 

In this section, you can also highlight industry trends and key players so readers can better understand where your company fits within the industry – or outside of it, if applicable. Also, provide an overview of the current status or future revenue potential. 

The goal should be to present yourself in a way that sets you apart from other similar businesses; explain why customers should choose your business

3) Market Analysis. 

The market analysis section of your business plan outline is crucial as it identifies your best potential customers or clients. To create a practical market analysis, you should thoroughly research the primary target market for your products/services, including geographic location, demographics, and why they are a good target for you.

This is to show that you know exactly who you are selling to, so you can make educated predictions about how much these people would buy from you – and convince other prospects, too.

With a marketing analysis, you can reduce your risk, identify emerging trends, and forecast revenue. You can use a marketing analysis at various stages of your business to keep up with any major changes in the marketplace.

A detailed market analysis is usually part of your business plan because it tells you who you serve and what competitors have done so far to position themselves as well.

Below is an example of a marketing analysis that graphically illustrates how a marketing analysis is conducted.

Source  

4) Competitive Analysis 

As you prepare for the competitive analysis section, you will learn how successful your direct and indirect competitors are in the marketplace. This section of your business plan outline includes an assessment of your competitors’ strengths and weaknesses, the advantages they currently have over you, and the factors that set your business apart from all others. 

It also includes whether any obstacles might hinder your success as a new entrant in this market. 

The main goal is to stand out from other companies to convince potential investors that investing in this company will give them a significant advantage over the competition. 

However, a solid competitive analysis should identify the areas where there are no natural barriers that would prevent the future success of anyone entering those markets with a similar product line . 

5) Sales and Marketing Plans 

You can explain your sales strategy in detail in the sales and marketing section. This is where you outline your company’s unique selling proposition. 

You should describe how you plan to bring it to market – and how you will convince people that they need what this product or service has for them. You can also include information about pricing, planned advertising and sales promotions, and any benefits of your products/services.

This is an important section of the business plan outline as it is this section you describe how you will attract and retain customers. When you talk about your marketing and sales strategies, you also need to address the actual sales process. If you are making financial projections later, you should read about what they might look like here.

The basics of marketing and sales are about understanding your market and competition and crafting a product’s message, pricing, and strategy to make it successful. There are five P’s that play a role in these processes, as well as how you will measure the success of your marketing mix. The following elements should be included in sales and marketing plans. 

Product 

Describe the products or services you offer to customers as part of your home business. Include details about physical characteristics (size, color, etc.), features, and differences from other similar products on the market or compared to other services. Explain why potential customers should buy these products from you and not from another vendor, 

Price 

Pricing strategies should always be focused on achieving your target profit margin. Consider whether you want to charge more or less than the competition and how this can be justified (i.e., what do buyers get for paying more for your product?).

Place  

Indicate where the products will be sold, whether online or in-store or both and how they will reach consumers. Here it is also important to indicate if there are any shipping or labeling requirements that need to be followed and how the company will take care of them. In the end, the transaction and return policy must also be mentioned. 

Promotion 

This refers to the type of promotional strategies the company will use to reach the target customers. Other elements like incentives and coupons offered to the consumers can also be mentioned.

People 

Once you have decided on a marketing strategy, you also need to determine the people who will be tasked with selling and marketing the product. Incentives for the sales staff and consumer satisfaction are other elements you need to pay attention to.

Source   

6) Operating Plan 

The operating plan is a detailed breakdown of how your business will be run. It includes the location, descriptions of facilities and equipment, the type of employees needed for the industry, inventory requirements, and vendors. In addition to these items, other details may be included that relate to specific types of businesses, such as manufacturing processes or special items needed for daily operations.

When writing this section of the business plan, you should first explain what you have done so far to make the business operational, and then explain what remains to be done. The following items should be included:

Production overflow. 

A detailed, step-by-step description of how your product or service will be produced. At the end of this section, include a subsection titled “Risks” where you discuss potential problems that could affect production and what you will do to address them before they can occur. Provide an overview of how employees will be trained to deal with safety issues related to the use of hazardous materials.

Memberships in industry associations. 

In this section, demonstrate your knowledge of regional, local, or national industry standards by indicating which industries you are already a member of or would like to join. 

Supply Chains

In this section, you should detail who your suppliers are, their pricing, and the standards to which they operate. You should also address crisis management, i.e. alternative methods in case the supply chain fails for any reason. 

Quality Control 

This section includes the quality controls that are already in place or have yet to be implemented.

7) Financial Plan 

Your goal is to convince the reader that your business is stable and financially successful. If you have other collateral, list it now. Provide an outlook for the next five years, including projected income statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements, and capital budgets.

Include projections for all of these categories on an annual basis – quarterly or monthly predictions are necessary to provide more detail on the future goals of this business plan.

The reason for financial data in a business plan is twofold. First, you need these numbers if you are seeking investment from venture capitalists, angel investors, or even smart family members.

They need to see that your business can grow and make a profit quickly while they still have time to enjoy it before it is sold to them with stock so they do not suffer a loss and that you are able to repay their loans in full – something any bank or lender would require as well!

Plan your sales over a three-year period by creating a spreadsheet with different sections for each sales area and columns for each month. This will keep you on track.

Following the revenue forecast, create an expense budget to understand how much it will cost you to generate the projected revenue. After you have created the expense budget, create a cash flow statement detailing the amount of cash coming in and going out.

You will also need to create an income projection, which is a pro forma income statement that lists the projections for the business for the next three days. You must also project a balance sheet.

8) Appendices and Attachments. 

In addition to the sections above, please include any other information supporting your business idea’s credibility and underpinning its potential success. 

You may have in this section marketing studies, photos of your product, permits/patents/ other intellectual property rights, credit histories (including bankruptcies), resumes, marketing materials, and contracts or other legal agreements relevant to your business.

How long should a business plan outline be?

The length of a business plan varies depending on the level of detail you include in each section. However, if you are not seeking any funding, your first business plan doesn’t need to be lengthy. 

You only need enough information that can be completed within 30-minutes, and this should serve as more like a long-term management tool where updates can quickly happen regularly. 

There is no set order to your business plan, the only exception being that the executive summary should always come first. Beyond that, it depends on what you want to achieve with your plan.

If you are writing a business plan to help yourself organize and gather information and create a roadmap, then managing it intuitively would be most helpful for your process (for example by grouping similar content together, such as all material related to markets). 

However, they are written to seek funding or gather support from other people before launching the company, then leading with convincing materials is essential. This will encourage readers who may have been skeptical about reading more of this document because they might value these things (such as highlighting strengths).

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