How to Fill Out a Business Plan
- 1). You should write down the basics of your plan. Make sure to include information pertaining to specific products and services you will offer, how you will market them and data on your potential client base. In addition, consider how you will finance your business. This information doesn't require a formal layout, as it will simply provide direction for completion of your business plan.
- 2). You should create a business plan template. This allows you to design a plan using samples and guidelines provided. You should include sections such as an executive summary, market analysis and financial overview in your template to address the main requirements of a business plan. You can create a template by viewing sample plans appropriate for your business and industry. To do this, visit the U.S. Small Business Administration recommended website, Bplans.com, for business plan template ideas.
- 3). You should describe your business by filling in the executive summary section of the business plan template. This should include information pertaining to an overview of your business, current goals and future plans.
- 4). Complete the market analysis section of your business plan template by including marketing data relative to your industry and product or service. This should include expected industry growth, your target market and the ways you seek to market and advertise your business.
- 5). You should include a cash flow statement, balance sheet and a projected profit or loss statement. You should seek the help of an accountant or financial professional if you are unsure how to prepare these statements. Also, graphs will help you illustrate financial statistics provided.
- 6). You should include the names and roles of all business executives and partners.
