Tips for each section
- Write the executive summary last. It is easier once the rest is done.
- Be specific about customers. The SBA’s advice: your business won’t be for everybody, so name the people it will serve.
- Use real numbers. Put your startup costs and break-even point in the financial section, and check your prices cover your costs.
- Keep it current. A plan is a working document. Update it as you learn.
Section names and prompts follow the SBA’s guide to writing a business plan.
Frequently asked questions
What should a business plan include?
The SBA lists nine common sections for a traditional plan: executive summary, company description, market analysis, organization and management, service or product line, marketing and sales, funding request, financial projections and an appendix. A lean one-page plan covers key partnerships, activities, resources, value proposition, customer relationships, customer segments, channels, cost structure and revenue streams.
Is this business plan template really free?
Yes. There is no sign-up and no watermark. Your text is saved only in your browser on this device.
How do I save my business plan as a PDF?
Click “Print / Save as PDF”, then choose “Save as PDF” (or “Microsoft Print to PDF”) as the printer. On a phone, use the share or print option and pick Save as PDF.
Can I edit it in Word or Google Docs?
Yes. “Download for Word” saves a .doc file that opens in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, Pages and LibreOffice. You can also copy the plain text and paste it anywhere.
Which format should I choose?
Choose the one-page lean plan if your business is simple or you want to start quickly. Choose the full plan if you will ask a bank or investor for money. The SBA says lenders and investors commonly request the traditional format. See lean vs traditional.