A business plan is one of the most important steps you will take because it serves as your road map for the early years of your business. The business plan generally projects 3-5 years ahead and outlines the route a company intends to take to reach its yearly milestones, including sales and profit projections. The business plan can be used to monitor progress, hold yourself accountable and control the business’s fate. And of course, it’s a valuable tool for courting key employees, future investors, renting space, securing suppliers, purchasing insurance, or obtaining loans.

A business plan will have many different parts that must all work together. It becomes your living plan on how you will successfully own and operate your business. Because the business plan is based on the vision of the individual or individuals who are starting and/or operating the business, it should really be developed by the people who will be working the plan.

The best way to predict the future is to create it!

 – Peter Drucker

What is Your Mission?

Understanding all you plan to accomplish, who you want to service, and how you want to run your business are compiled in your business’ mission. Here are a few questions to ask yourself as you are crafting this important statement.

Business Plan Checklist

• Cover page with business name, logo and contact information
• Executive Summary – Snapshot of Full Scope
  • Product/Service Offered
  • Target Audience
  • Future Goal
• Company Description
  • Mission Statement
  • Principal Members
  • Legal Structure
• Market Research
  • Industry you Service
  • Description of Customers
  • Company Advantages
• Product/Service Description
  • List with pricing
  • Research & development on industry trends
• Marketing & Sales
  • Growth Strategy
  • Communication Plan