Whether you’re starting a business from scratch or you’re a few years in, the good news is you don’t need to re-invent the wheel. Download our free business plan template below, where each section is mapped out ready to go.
1. Do your research. You will need to make quite a few decisions about your business including structure, marketing strategies and finances before you can complete the template.
2. Determine who the plan is for. Does it have more than one purpose? Will it be used internally or will third parties be involved? Deciding the purpose of the plan can help you target your answers.
3. Do not attempt to fill in the template from start to finish. First decide which sections are relevant for your business and set aside the sections that don’t apply.
4. Use the [italicised text]. The italicised text is there to help guide you by providing some more detailed questions you may like to answer when preparing your response.
5. Get some help. If you aren’t confident in completing the plan yourself, you can enlist the help of a professional
6. Actual vs. expected figures. Existing businesses can include actual figures in the plan, but if your business is just starting out and you are using expected figures for turnover and finances you will need to clearly show that these are expected figures or estimates.
7. Write your summary last. Use as few words as possible. You want to get to the point but not overlook important facts. This is also your opportunity to sell yourself. But don’t overdo it.
8. Review. Review. Review. Your business plan is there to make a good impression. Errors will only detract from your professional image. So ask a number of impartial people to proofread your final plan.
