Write a Business Plan

A well-written business plan is essential to starting and running a business. Business plans are required when applying for business loans or seeking investors. A good business plan describes in detail a business’ mission and goals, and how these goals will be achieved. The following resources will help you develop a sound business plan.

• How to Write a Business Plan
  Guidance on writing winning business plans.
• Business Plan for Home Based Businesses
  Provides a comprehensive approach to developing a business plan for a home based business.
• Free Business Planning Courses
  Free at-your-own-pace courses on developing and writing successful business plans.
• Sample Business Plans
  Bplan is a commercial site providing access to hundreds of free sample business plans.
• Podcast: Creating a Business Plan
  Expert advice on writing a good business plan. Read the Transcript.
• Video: Business Planning & Research
  Successful entrepreneurs share the lessons they’ve learned about writing business plans.
• Video: Business Planning Tutorials
  Business.gov’s Industry Word author, Tim Berry, has created a series of videos that discuss ways to create a business plan without getting overwhelmed by the formalities of an official document.
• Franchises and Business Opportunities
  Thinking about buying into a franchise? These resources will help you develop a plan and avoid costly pitfalls.
• Start Up Assessment Tool
  This simple assessment tool is designed to help you better understand your readiness for starting a small business. Takes less than 5 minutes to complete.

U.S. Small Business Administration’s Small Business Planner provides guides and resources on developing business plans and common-sense advise on starting a new business.

Visit our Small Business Assistance and Training page to learn about free counseling and training programs that are available to help you plan and start your small business.