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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. Read these tips about what to include.
  • 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

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

    What do you sell? How does it benefit your customers? What is the product lifecycle? Get tips on how to tell the story about 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 and leases. Find additional information you should include in your appendix.

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