Essential Elements of a Good Business Plan

What are the key elements of a business plan? From market analysis to your company financials, this guide walks you through the essential components of your plan, including how to develop a funding request.

Business Plan Executive Summary

Your executive summary is a snapshot of your business plan as a whole and touches on your company profile and goals. This section offers tips on what to include and how to keep it brief and succinct.
Market Analysis

Before launching your business, it is essential for you to research your business industry, market and competitors.
Company Description

Your company description provides information on what you do, what differentiates your business from others, and the markets your business serves?
Organization & Management

Every business is structured differently. Find out the best organization and management structure for your business.
Marketing & Sales Management

How do you plan to market your business? What is your sales strategy? Read more about how to present this information in your plan.
Service or Product Line

What do you sell? How does it benefit your customers? What is the product lifecycle? Do you plan R&D activities? Get tips on how to tell the "story" of your product or service.
Funding Request

If you are seeking funding for your business, find out about the necessary information you should include in your plan.
Financial Projections

If you need funding, providing financial projections to back up your request is critical. Find out what information you need to include in your financial projections for your small business.
Appendix

An appendix is optional, but a useful place to include information such as resumes, permits, leases, and so on. Find out what else you should include in your appendix.