Library

Here is a quick review of the major elements that you should consider including in your business plan. Before you take on this task and commit both your time and resources to doing a business plan, be sure to do some basic research.
We have taken the time to review and a recommend a few books in our library that will help you answer these basic questions:

Is this business right for you? Have you considered some alternative ideas?   Book Reviews

What are some proven ways to minimize risks and costs as you proceed?  Book Reviews

As Thomas Edison said, "There is no substitute for hard work". How do you remain motivated and productive in your business to ensure success?  Book Reviews

What are some available business planning books or software to ease the process if you decide to go ahead?  Book Reviews

TABLE OF CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

The executive summary is a stand-alone document that allows an investor to review the most important parts of the plan quickly. It should include the following elements.

Business Description: The product or service, major features and benefits, location and target market.

Mission Statement: The core values of which the company is dedicated to impart to its customers.

Industry Trends: Growth trends and significant positive indicators.

Target Market: A description of the consumer base.

Competitive Advantages: What aspects of the business, product, or service differentiate it from competitors.

Management Description: History, experience, and training of management.

Business Type: Sole proprietorship, partnership, or corporation.

Milestones: What tasks have been completed to date?

Financial Outlook: Profit and loss outlook for the future three to five years.

Sources and Uses: Where will cash be coming from and where will it go?

Long Term Vision: What will the firm look like in five years?

Risks and Risk Containment: What are the major risks and how will they be covered or reduced?

MARKETING

Mission Statement: The core values which the company is dedicated to impart to its customers.

The Product or Service: A list of products and services and descriptions of the features and benefits.

Industry Trends: Growth trends and specific indicators or opportunities in the industry.

S.W.O.T Analysis: The strengths and weaknesses of the firm, and the opportunities and threats it faces.

Market Research: Primary and Secondary research in regard to the following:

Target Market (The Customer): A description of the demographics, psychographics, and sociographics for consumers and/or a description of businesses serviced.

Market Segments: Specific market niches or communities that will be targeted.

Competitive Analysis: A list of relevant competitors as well a comprehensive comparison of product or service features and benefits, and important business components.

Positioning: How the business, product, and/or service is perceived by the business's best customer?

Pricing: What are the company's pricing policies?

Promotion: A description of the methods and media utilized to communicate with the target audience(s).

Sales & Distribution Strategy: A description of how the goods or services will be delivered and the sales plan and processes.

MANAGEMENT & OPERATIONS

Management Vision: How does the management see the firm evolving over the next three to five years?

Management Team: A description of key management and their roles.

Professional Advisors: A list of professional resources and how they will contribute.

Strategic Partners: Strategic alliances that will be formed for the mutual benefit of both organizations.

Table of Organization: An organizational chart showing the hierarchy of management and decision-making.

Support Staff: Identify key personnel and their roles.

Contractors and Suppliers: Identify, list, and describe the roles of key contractors and suppliers.

Legal Requirements: What licenses, permits, certificates, etc. are required?

Insurance: The purpose, risks covered, and limits of required insurance.

Operations & Production: A description of the production processes including inputs, facilities, equipment, and outputs.

Processes and Specifications (optional): A detailed description of processes including timelines and specifications.

FINANCES

Pro Forma Income & Expense Statement: Three to five year projections.

Projected Cash Flows: Three to five year projections.

Pro Forma Balance Sheet & Ratios: Reflect the financial stability of company in year one and years three and/or five.

Projected Financing Requirements: How much money required and is it in the form of short term financing, long term financing, or equity financing (common or preferred shares).