1. Executive Summary
- Business Name and Location
- Business Concept or Mission Statement
- Brief Description of Products/Services
- Founders and Team
- Funding Requirements and Purpose
- Business Objectives and Milestones
2. Business Description
- Industry Overview
- Business Structure (e.g., sole trader, Ltd)
- History or Idea Origin
- Vision and Mission Statements
- Business Goals (short-term and long-term)
3. Market Research and Analysis
- Target Market Definition
- Customer Demographics and Behaviors
- Market Size and Trends
- Industry Analysis
- Competitive Landscape
- Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
4. Products or Services
- Detailed Description of Offerings
- Key Features and Benefits
- Pricing Strategy
- Product Lifecycle (new, growth, mature)
- Research and Development Plans
5. Marketing and Sales Strategy
- Branding and Positioning
- Marketing Channels (online, offline, events)
- Advertising and Promotions Plan
- Customer Acquisition Strategy
- Sales Process and Distribution Channels
- Partnerships or Collaborations
6. Operations Plan
- Location and Facilities
- Technology and Equipment
- Suppliers and Supply Chain Management
- Inventory Management
- Day-to-Day Operations Workflow
7. Management and Organisation
- Organisational Structure
- Management Team and Roles
- Key Staff and Responsibilities
- Advisory Board or Mentors (if any)
- Hiring Plans
8. Financial Plan
- Startup Costs and Capital Requirements
- Revenue Model and Pricing
- Projected Profit and Loss Statement (1-3 years)
- Cash Flow Forecast
- Balance Sheet Projections
- Break-Even Analysis
- Funding Use Breakdown
9. Funding Request (If Applicable)
- How Much You’re Requesting
- How Funds Will Be Used
- Preferred Funding Type (loan, equity, grant)
- Repayment or ROI Plan
10. Appendix
- Resumes of Founders and Key Staff
- Additional Market Data or Research
- Product Photos or Mockups
- Legal Documents (registrations, licenses)
- Sample Marketing Materials
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a business plan template used for?
It provides a structured guide to map out your business idea, secure funding, and set clear goals.
Can I modify this template for any industry?
Yes. It’s flexible and should be tailored to match your specific business model and sector.
Do I need a business plan to start a small business?
It’s not legally required but strongly recommended to stay organized and attract investors or lenders.
How long should a business plan be?
Typically 10–20 pages, depending on the complexity of the business.
Do investors really read business plans?
Yes. A well-written plan shows professionalism, direction, and understanding of the market.
Should my financials be detailed in the business plan?
Absolutely. Accurate and realistic projections are key for securing funding and planning operations.
Conclusion
This template of a business plan offers a comprehensive framework to help you build a solid foundation for your new venture. Whether you’re applying for funding or clarifying your business vision, a structured plan is a powerful tool to guide your journey from idea to execution.