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Free Business Plan Template for Small Businesses (2024)

Use this free business plan template to write your business plan quickly and efficiently.

A good business plan is essential to successfully starting your business —  and the easiest way to simplify the work of writing a business plan is to start with a business plan template.

You’re already investing time and energy in refining your business model and planning your launch—there’s no need to reinvent the wheel when it comes to writing a business plan. Instead, to help build a complete and effective plan, lean on time-tested structures created by other  entrepreneurs and startups. 

Ahead, learn what it takes to create a solid business plan and download Shopify's free business plan template to get started on your dream today. 

What this free business plan template includes

• Executive summary
• Company overview
• Products or services offered
• Market analysis
• Marketing plan
• Logistics and operations plan
• Financial plan

This business plan outline is designed to ensure you’re thinking through all of the important facets of starting a new business. It’s intended to help new business owners and entrepreneurs consider the full scope of running a business and identify functional areas they may not have considered or where they may need to level up their skills as they grow.

That said, it may not include the specific details or structure preferred by a potential investor or lender. If your goal with a business plan is to secure funding , check with your target organizations—typically banks or investors—to see if they have business plan templates you can follow to maximize your chances of success.

Shopify's free business plan template includes seven key elements typically found in the traditional business plan format:

1. Executive summary

This is a one-page summary of your whole plan, typically written after the rest of the plan is completed. The description section of your executive summary will also cover your management team, business objectives and strategy, and other background information about the brand. 

2. Company overview

This section of your business plan will answer two fundamental questions: “Who are you?” and “What do you plan to do?” Answering these questions clarifies why your company exists, what sets it apart from others, and why it’s a good investment opportunity. This section will detail the reasons for your business’s existence, its goals, and its guiding principles.

3. Products or services offered

What you sell and the most important features of your products or services. It also includes any plans for intellectual property, like patent filings or copyright. If you do market research for new product lines, it will show up in this section of your business plan.

4. Market analysis

This section includes everything from estimated market size to your target markets and competitive advantage. It’ll include a competitive analysis of your industry to address competitors’ strengths and weaknesses. Market research is an important part of ensuring you have a viable idea.

5. Marketing plan

How you intend to get the word out about your business, and what strategic decisions you’ve made about things like your pricing strategy. It also covers potential customers’ demographics, your sales plan, and your metrics and milestones for success.

6. Logistics and operations plan

Everything that needs to happen to turn your raw materials into products and get them into the hands of your customers.

7. Financial plan

It’s important to include a look at your financial projections, including both revenue and expense projections. This section includes templates for three key financial statements: an income statement, a balance sheet, and a cash-flow statement . You can also include whether or not you need a business loan and how much you’ll need.

Business plan examples

What do financial projections look like on paper? How do you write an executive summary? What should your company description include?  Business plan examples  can help answer some of these questions and transform your business idea into an actionable plan.

Professional business plan example

Inside the template, you'll find a sample business plan featuring a fictional ecommerce business . 

The sample is set up to help you get a sense of each section and understand how they apply to the planning and evaluation stages of a business plan. If you’re looking for funding, this example won’t be a complete or formal look at business plans, but it will give you a great place to start and notes about where to expand.

Lean business plan example

A lean business plan format is a shortened version of your more detailed business plan. It’s helpful when modifying your plan for a specific audience, like investors or new hires. 

Also known as a one-page business plan, it includes only the most important, need-to-know information, such as:

• Company description
• Key members of your team
• Customer segments

💡 Tip: For a step-by-step guide to creating a lean business plan (including a sample business plan), read Shopify's guide on how to create a lean business plan .

Benefits of writing a solid business plan

It’s tempting to dive right into execution when you’re excited about a new business or side project, but taking the time to write a thorough business plan and get your thoughts on paper allows you to do a number of beneficial things:

• Test the viability of your business idea. Whether you’ve got one business idea or many, business plans can make an idea more tangible, helping you see if it’s truly viable and ensure you’ve found a target market. 
• Plan for your next phase. Whether your goal is to start a new business or scale an existing business to the next level, a business plan can help you understand what needs to happen and identify gaps to address.
• Clarify marketing strategy, goals, and tactics. Writing a business plan can show you the actionable next steps to take on a big, abstract idea. It can also help you narrow your strategy and identify clear-cut tactics that will support it.
• Scope the necessary work. Without a concrete plan, cost overruns and delays are all but certain. A business plan can help you see the full scope of work to be done and adjust your investment of time and money accordingly.
• Hire and build partnerships. When you need buy-in from potential employees and business partners, especially in the early stages of your business, a clearly written business plan is one of the best tools at your disposal. A business plan provides a refined look at your goals for the business, letting partners judge for themselves whether or not they agree with your vision.
• Secure funds. Seeking financing for your business—whether from venture capital, financial institutions, or Shopify Capital —is one of the most common reasons to create a business plan.

Why you should you use a template for a business plan

A business plan can be as informal or formal as your situation calls for, but even if you’re a fan of the back-of-the-napkin approach to planning, there are some key benefits to starting your plan from an existing outline or simple business plan template.

No blank-page paralysis

A blank page can be intimidating to even the most seasoned writers. Using an established business planning process and template can help you get past the inertia of starting your business plan, and it allows you to skip the work of building an outline from scratch. You can always adjust a template to suit your needs.

Guidance on what to include in each section

If you’ve never sat through a business class, you might never have created a SWOT analysis or financial projections. Templates that offer guidance—in plain language—about how to fill in each section can help you navigate sometimes-daunting business jargon and create a complete and effective plan.

Knowing you’ve considered every section

In some cases, you may not need to complete every section of a startup business plan template, but its initial structure shows you you’re choosing to omit a section as opposed to forgetting to include it in the first place.

Tips for creating a successful business plan

There are some high-level strategic guidelines beyond the advice included in this free business plan template that can help you write an effective, complete plan while minimizing busywork.

Understand the audience for your plan

If you’re writing a business plan for yourself in order to get clarity on your ideas and your industry as a whole, you may not need to include the same level of detail or polish you would with a business plan you want to send to potential investors. Knowing who will read your plan will help you decide how much time to spend on it.

Know your goals

Understanding the goals of your plan can help you set the right scope. If your goal is to use the plan as a roadmap for growth, you may invest more time in it than if your goal is to understand the competitive landscape of a new industry.

Take it step by step

Writing a 10- to 15-page document can feel daunting, so try to tackle one section at a time. Select a couple of sections you feel most confident writing and start there—you can start on the next few sections once those are complete. Jot down bullet-point notes in each section before you start writing to organize your thoughts and streamline the writing process.

Maximize your business planning efforts

Planning is key to the financial success of any type of business , whether you’re a startup, non-profit, or corporation.

To make sure your efforts are focused on the highest-value parts of your own business planning, like clarifying your goals, setting a strategy, and understanding the target market and competitive landscape, lean on a business plan outline to handle the structure and format for you. Even if you eventually omit sections, you’ll save yourself time and energy by starting with a framework already in place.

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Business plan template FAQ

What is the purpose of a business plan.

The purpose of your business plan is to describe a new business opportunity or an existing one. It clarifies the business strategy, marketing plan, financial forecasts, potential providers, and more information about the company.

How do I write a simple business plan?

• Choose a business plan format, such as a traditional or a one-page business plan. 
• Find a business plan template.
• Read through a business plan sample.
• Fill in the sections of your business plan.

What is the best business plan template?

If you need help writing a business plan, Shopify’s template is one of the most beginner-friendly options you’ll find. It’s comprehensive, well-written, and helps you fill out every section.

What are the 5 essential parts of a business plan?

The five essential parts of a traditional business plan include:

• Executive summary: This is a brief overview of the business plan, summarizing the key points and highlighting the main points of the plan.
• Business description: This section outlines the business concept and how it will be executed.
• Market analysis: This section provides an in-depth look at the target market and how the business will compete in the marketplace.
• Financial plan: This section details the financial projections for the business, including sales forecasts, capital requirements, and a break-even analysis.
• Management and organization: This section describes the management team and the organizational structure of the business.

Are there any free business plan templates?

There are several free templates for business plans for small business owners available online, including Shopify’s own version.

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Simple Business Plan Templates

By Joe Weller | April 2, 2020

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In this article, we’ve compiled a variety of simple business plan templates, all of which are free to download in PDF, Word, and Excel formats.

On this page, you’ll find a one-page business plan template , a simple business plan for startups , a small-business plan template , a business plan outline , and more. We also include a business plan sample and the main components of a business plan to help get you started.

Simple Business Plan Template

Download Simple Business Plan Template

This simple business plan template lays out each element of a traditional business plan to assist you as you build your own, and it provides space to add financing information for startups seeking funding. You can use and customize this simple business plan template to fit the needs for organizations of any size.

One-Page Business Plan Template

Download One-Page Business Plan Template

Excel | Word | PDF  | Smartsheet

Use this one-page business plan to document your key ideas in an organized manner. The template can help you create a high-level view of your business plan, and it provides easy scannability for stakeholders. You can use this one-page plan as a reference to build a more detailed blueprint for your business. 

For additional single page plans, take a look at " One-Page Business Plan Templates with a Quick How-To Guide ."

Simple Fill-in-the-Blank Business Plan Template

Download Simple Fill-in-the-Blank Business Plan Template

Use this fill-in-the-blank business plan template to guide you as you build your business plan. Each section comes pre-filled with sample content, with space to add customized verbiage relevant to your product or service.

For additional free, downloadable resources, visit " Free Fill-In-the-Blank Business Plan Templates ."

Simple Business Plan for Startup

‌ Download Startup Business Plan Template — Word

This business plan template is designed with a startup business in mind and contains the essential elements needed to convey key product or service details to investors and stakeholders. Keep all your information organized with this template, which provides space to include an executive summary, a company overview, competitive analysis, a marketing strategy, financial data, and more. For additional resources, visit " Free Startup Business Plan Templates and Examples ."

Simple Small-Business Plan Template

Download Simple Small-Business Plan Template

This template walks you through each component of a small-business plan, including the company background, the introduction of the management team, market analysis, product or service offerings, a financial plan, and more. This template also comes with a built-in table of contents to keep your plan in order, and it can be customized to fit your requirements.

Lean Business Plan Template

Download Lean Business Plan Template

This lean business plan template is a stripped-down version of a traditional business plan that provides only the most essential aspects. Briefly outline your company and industry overview, along with the problem you are solving, as well as your unique value proposition, target market, and key performance metrics. There is also room to list out a timeline of key activities.

Simple Business Plan Outline Template

Download Simple Business Plan Outline Template

Word  | PDF

Use this simple business plan outline as a basis to create your own business plan. This template contains 11 sections, including a title page and a table of contents, which details what each section should cover in a traditional business plan. Simplify or expand this outline to create the foundation for a business plan that fits your business needs.

Simple Business Planning Template with Timeline

Download Simple Business Planning Template with Timeline

Excel | Smartsheet

This template doubles as a project plan and timeline to track progress as you develop your business plan. This business planning template enables you to break down your work into phases and provides room to add key tasks and dates for each activity. Easily fill in the cells according to the start and end dates to create a visual timeline, as well as to ensure your plan stays on track.

Simple Business Plan Rubric Template

Download Simple Business Plan Rubric

Excel | Word | PDF | Smartsheet

Once you complete your business plan, use this business plan rubric template to assess and score each component of your plan. This rubric helps you identify elements of your plan that meet or exceed requirements and pinpoint areas where you need to improve or further elaborate. This template is an invaluable tool to ensure your business plan clearly defines your goals, objectives, and plan of action in order to gain buy-in from potential investors, stakeholders, and partners.

Basic Business Plan Sample

Download Basic Business Plan Sample

This business plan sample serves as an example of a basic business plan that contains all the traditional components. The sample provides a model of what a business plan might look like for a fictional food truck business. Reference this sample as you develop your own business plan.

For additional resources to help support your business planning efforts, check out “ Free Strategic Planning Templates .”

Main Components of a Business Plan

The elements you include in your business plan will depend on your product or service offerings, as well as the size and needs of your business. 

Below are the components of a standard business plan and details you should include in each section:

• Company name and contact information
• Website address
• The name of the company or individual viewing the presentation
• Table of Contents
• Company background and purpose
• Mission and vision statement
• Management team introduction
• Core product and service offerings
• Target customers and segments
• Marketing plan
• Competitive analysis
• Unique value proposition
• Financial plan (and requirements, if applicable)
• Business and industry overview
• Historical timeline of your business
• Offerings and the problem they solve
• Current alternatives
• Competitive advantage
• Market size
• Target market segment(s)
• Projected volume and value of sales compared to competitors
• Differentiation from competitors
• Pricing strategy
• Marketing channels
• Promotional plan
• Distribution methods
• Legal structure of your business
• Names of founders, owners, advisors, etc.
• Management team’s roles, relevant experience, and compensation plan
• Staffing requirements and training plans
• Physical location(s) of your business
• Additional physical requirements (e.g., warehouse, specialized equipment, facilities, etc.)
• Production workflow
• Raw materials and sourcing methods
• Projected income statement
• Projected cash flow statement
• Projected balance sheet
• Break-even analysis
• Charts and graphs
• Market research and competitive analysis
• Information about your industry
• Information about your offerings
• Samples of marketing materials
• Other supporting materials

Tips for Creating a Business Plan

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed at the thought of putting together a business plan. Below, you’ll find top tips to help simplify the process as you develop your own plan. 

• Use a business plan template (you can choose from the variety above), or refer to the previous section to create a standard outline for your plan.
• Modify your outline to reflect the requirements of your specific business. If you use a standard business plan outline, remove sections that aren’t relevant to you or aren’t necessary to run your business.
• Gather all the information you currently have about your business first, and then use that information to fill out each section in your plan outline.
• Use your resources and conduct additional research to fill in the remaining gaps. (Note: It isn’t necessary to fill out your plan in order, but the executive summary needs to be completed last, as it summarizes the key points in your plan.)
• Ensure your plan clearly communicates the relationship between your marketing, sales, and financial objectives.
• Provide details in your plan that illustrate your strategic plan of action, looking forward three to five years.
• Revisit your plan regularly as strategies and objectives evolve.
• What product or service are we offering?
• Who is the product or service for?
• What problem does our product or service offering solve?
• How will we get the product or service to our target customers?
• Why is our product or service better than the alternatives?
• How can we outperform our competitors?
• What is our unique value proposition?
• When will things get done, and who is responsible for doing them?
• If you need to obtain funding, how will you use the funding?
• When are payments due, and when do payments come in?
• What is the ultimate purpose of your business?
• When do you expect to be profitable?

To identify which type of business plan you should write, and for more helpful tips, take a look at our guide to writing a simple business plan .

Benefits of Using a Business Plan Template

Creating a business plan can be very time-consuming, especially if you aren’t sure where to begin. Finding the right template for your business needs can be beneficial for a variety of reasons. 

Using a business plan template — instead of creating your plan from scratch — can benefit you in the following ways:

• Enables you to immediately write down your thoughts and ideas in an organized manner
• Provides structure to help outline your plan
• Saves time and valuable resources
• Helps ensure you don’t miss essential details

Limitations of a Business Plan Template

A business plan template can be convenient, but it has its drawbacks — especially if you use a template that doesn’t fit the specific needs of your business.

Below are some limitations of using a business plan template:

• Each business is unique and needs a business plan that reflects that. A template may not fit your needs.
• A template may restrict collaboration with other team members on different aspects of the plan’s development (sales, marketing, and accounting teams).
• Multiple files containing different versions of the plan may be stored in more than one place.
• You still have to manually create charts and graphs to add to the plan to support your strategy.
• Updates to the plan, spreadsheets, and supporting documents have to be made in multiple places (all documents may not update in real time as changes are made).

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When teams have clarity into the work getting done, there’s no telling how much more they can accomplish in the same amount of time.  Try Smartsheet for free, today.

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Simple Business Plan Template for Startups, Small Businesses & Entrepreneurs

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Best Business Plan Template for Startups and Small Businesses

Growthink’s business plan template is the result of 25+ years of research into the business plans that help entrepreneurs and small business owners attract potential investors, raise investment capital, and build successful companies.

Using our business plan template, you will be able to write a proper business plan for your new or growing business. It will also help you lay out your business goals and your strategies for reaching them.

Importantly, our simple business plan template allows you to create a winning business plan much faster than starting from scratch. Our template features:

• Easy-to-follow instructions for completing each business plan section
• Questions to help you think through each component
• Automated financials to easily create your 5-year financial projections

What Does This Business Plan Template Include

This template includes the 10 key sections of a business plan, each with detailed guidance and examples to quickly and easily complete your own business plan.

1. Executive Summary

The Executive Summary provides a high level synopsis of your business plan, including your company’s business concept, mission statement, company description and an overview of your product and service offerings. The Executive Summary is the most important part of your business plan because if it doesn’t excite the reader, they won’t continue reading your plan, and they certainly won’t invest in your company.

2. Company Overview

This Company Overview section provides an overview of your business and lets readers know its history. Start this section with a concise explanation of your business and the products and services it offers. 

3. Industry Analysis

The Industry Analysis section describes the market in which your company will be competing, including market research, data on target market segments, and industry trends. 

4. Customer Analysis

The Customer Analysis provides insights about your key customer segments and their needs. This helps you create products, services and marketing strategies that best resonate with your customers. 

5. Competitive Analysis

The Competitive Analysis identifies your direct and indirect competitors, assess their strengths and weaknesses, and show your company’s competitive advantages. 

6. Marketing Plan

The Marketing Plan must detail your key products and services, your pricing strategy, your promotions plan and your distribution channels.

7. Operations Plan

The Operations Plan details the key day-to-day processes that your company performs to serve customers and the key milestones your company expects to accomplish as you grow. 

8. Management Team

The Management Team section demonstrates that your company has the required management team and staff to be successful. Include short biographies of key personnel along with their qualifications and experience.

9. Financial Plan

The Financial Plan includes your 5-year projected business financials including your pro forma income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements. These financial statements should clearly illustrate your company’s revenue streams, sales volume and profitability over the next five years.

10. Appendix

The Appendix supports your overall business plan and should include your full financial projections along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling.

Finish your business plan today!

Download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer and finish your plan today.

Growthink’s Free Business Plan Template

Below is our free business plan template to help you get started on your plan. You can edit each business plan template to fit your needs and each one is printable. 

Free Simple Business Plan Template

A simple, free startup business plan template in Word or PDF that can be used for any type of business.

Free Business Plan Template PDF

Free Business Plan Template Word

Additional business plan template resources.

Below are some of the best business plan template resources to help you quickly and easily complete your own business plan.

Growthink's Business Plan Template

Download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template and complete a solid business plan and your financial statements in hours.

Business Plan Examples

We have over 300 business plan examples for startups to help you to develop a professional business plan for your own business.

Writing a Business Plan and Business Plan Template FAQs

How can i access growthink's ultimate business plan template, why you need a business plan template.

Using a business plan template will significantly cut down on the time it takes to complete your plan. Specifically, our template, which:

• Starts you off with content already on the page. It’s hard to start any document from a blank page and having your key sections already listed is helpful.
• Lays out the key questions you must answer in each section, so you have guidance on what information to include and where.
• Helps you understand the questions you must focus on, and what’s not important, so you do a better job of conveying the key information readers need to know.

How Can I Write a Simple Business Plan?

Whether you are starting a new business or growing your existing business, you need a business plan. A business plan template will help you get started writing your plan and will provide you with a road map to long-term success and business growth. It should include the 10 key components of all business plans:

• Describe your business, mission and long-term goals in the executive summary.
• Explain the structure of your business, the physical location, and other basic business information in the company overview.
• Research your industry to explain current trends and influential factors for your business through a complete industry analysis.
• Identify the demographics and purchasing habits of your ideal customer in a detailed customer analysis.
• Better understand what your business is up against with a competitive analysis to identify their strengths and weaknesses.
• Develop a marketing plan that will help you reach your ideal customers, drive traffic to your website, and increase conversions.
• Create an operations plan that describes your day-to-day processes and procedures that make your business successful.
• Describe the management team that will be responsible for the success of your business.
• Create a comprehensive financial plan with realistic projections of where your business will be in the next 3-5 years.
• Attach supporting documents, financial statements, etc. in the appendix.

Learn the step-by-step writing process for how to write a business plan  and get a startup business plan template.

If you need help writing your plan, Growthink’s expert business plan consultants can help. We have helped develop winning business plans for countless happy customers .

How Can I Get a Printable Business Plan Template?

If you’re looking for a printable business plan template, there are a few different options available to you:

• One option is to download a free business plan template .
• Another option is to purchase a template . These are often considered the best business plan templates because they are of higher quality and include a range of features that can help you to create professional-looking business plans and financial model including the income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your needs and budget. If you’re looking for high-quality, printable business plan templates that are easy to edit, then a purchasing a business plan template is the best option. If you’re on a tight budget or you don’t need a lot of features, then a free, simple business plan template may be a better choice. Whichever option you choose, make sure to take the time to customize the template to fit your specific business.

Is a Business Plan Required For Funding?

Yes, a written business plan is nearly always required when seeking financing.  You need a business plan whether you are a small business, a startup, an existing business looking to grow or a seasoned business owner. Business plans fall into three common categories: business plans for funding, those used for strategy, and business plans for both fundraising and strategy.

Regardless of their business model, whether created from scratch or created using  business plan examples for startups, many business owners use their business plans to raise bank loans to grow. The funding request allows them to acquire additional business resources and improve their financial health. New business owners often seek bank loans and SBA Loans as well as funding from angel investors and/or friends and family.

Importantly, regardless of the source of funding you desire, a good business plan will stand out to a potential investor by showing compelling reasons why you will achieve financial success. A successful business plan must clearly highlight the business opportunity and want investors to buy in.  Investors will recognize a well researched business plan. A winning business plan will help you achieve long-term success, business growth and secure funding.

Dave Lavinsky is an internationally renowned expert in business planning, capital raising & new venture development. He has helped over 1 million entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses over the past 25 years.

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Business plan templates

From competitive analysis to financial projections, business plans give your new business a roadmap for success. Download one of our free business plan templates and take your company to the next level.

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Virtual Reality (VR) Business Plan

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Create your success roadmap with a laundromat business plan template, designed to arrange the essentials of the laundry business.

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Empower your path to long-term success with our 5-year business plan template.

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Gym Business Plan Template 

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What is a business plan?

A business plan is a document that helps small business owners determine the viability of their business idea. Combining market research and financial analysis, a professional business plan helps startup CEOs and potential investors determine if the company can compete in the target market.

Typically, a good business plan consists of the following:

• Executive summary
• Company description
• Mission statement
• Product and services
• Marketing plan
• Operations plan
• Management organization
• Financial plan
• Conclusion & appendix

Every section involved in a business plan is designed to help startup businesses reach their target market.

A business plan asks founders and entrepreneurs to detail their business strategy in a step-by-step process that makes sense from an operational perspective. This is essential if a startup is seeking a business loan or an investment from a venture capital firm.

However, even small businesses that are already economically viable can benefit from creating a business plan, since it encourages business owners and their management teams to examine their business model and reevaluate the best ways to reach their target customers.

Should I use a business plan template?

Yes.  If you’ve never written one, a business plan can be challenging to write.

Creating a successful plan that you can use to grow your small business can require weeks of market analysis and financial preparation. You may spend time using Microsoft Excel or Powerpoint in order to create documentation which better supports our operational decisions.

However, almost every professional business plan is structured in the same way and most ask for the same information. Because of this, using a business plan template is advisable to save time, money, and effort.

Business plan templates for free

Rather than spending time trying to figure out how to write a business plan , use a free template as a guide to completion.

Business plan templates from PandaDoc can help you reach an effective go-to-market strategy even faster by asking you to provide all the relevant information you need when creating an effective business plan.

Grab a free template to get started!

Frequently asked questions

How many pages should my business plan be.

This depends on the kind of business plan you need to write and how you intend to use the plan that you create.

For example, a plan for a small business seeking potential investors or a business loan will need to provide income statements, cash flow statements, and a balance sheet (usually for a three-year or five-year forecast period).

These financial statements can be omitted if a small business owner isn’t seeking funding and is instead planning to use their business plan as a guiding document for themselves and their management team members.

Some business plans may only run a few pages. Fully-developed business plans can be as long as 50 pages. Much of this depends on the type of business, the operational strategy, and the level of detail that goes into developing the business plan.

Who needs a business plan?

Every business should have a business plan. This is an essential guidance document for any founder or CEO.

Good business plans help a company determine the viability of its place in the market and can help the business develop better strategies for differentiating itself from its competitors.

Business planning also forces business owners to evaluate their marketing strategy, the cost of customer acquisition and retention, and how they plan to grow their business over time.

What is the best business plan template?

Business plans come in all shapes and sizes. The best business plan template for your business is one that you understand and that matches the size and legal structure of your operation.

If you’re a sole proprietor, a business plan template designed for a big corporation probably doesn’t make sense. However, a business plan that helps you build an effective roadmap to grow your business while protecting your intellectual property is a good starting point.

PandaDoc offers specialized business plan templates for common industries along with tips to help you get started with business planning.

Should I hire someone to write my business plan for me?

No. You’ll find freelance writers and business strategy companies out there who are happy to write your business plan for a fee.  These resources can guide you through the process, but you should write (or be heavily involved in) the creation of your business plan.

The reason for this is simple: You know the most about your business, and your business needs you to succeed.

A writer can work with you to make your business plan sound better to investors, and a consultant can help you fill in knowledge gaps — like how to conduct a SWOT analysis — and point out weaknesses in your plan. But, at the end of the day, you need to use the business plan to pitch investors and run your business.

Those ideas and guiding principles aren’t something you can outsource.

Should I use business planning software?

Software isn’t required when creating an effective business plan. Most business planning software is designed to help you navigate the outlining and writing process more effectively.

You don’t need software to write a professional business plan, but a solid template can help you get started. Download a free template from PandaDoc today and take your business to the next level.

Get started with PandaDoc today

Simple Business Plan Template (2024)

Updated: May 4, 2024, 4:37pm

Table of Contents

Why business plans are vital, get your free simple business plan template, how to write an effective business plan in 6 steps, frequently asked questions.

While taking many forms and serving many purposes, they all have one thing in common: business plans help you establish your goals and define the means for achieving them. Our simple business plan template covers everything you need to consider when launching a side gig, solo operation or small business. By following this step-by-step process, you might even uncover a few alternate routes to success.

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Whether you’re a first-time solopreneur or a seasoned business owner, the planning process challenges you to examine the costs and tasks involved in bringing a product or service to market. The process can also help you spot new income opportunities and hone in on the most profitable business models.

Though vital, business planning doesn’t have to be a chore. Business plans for lean startups and solopreneurs can simply outline the business concept, sales proposition, target customers and sketch out a plan of action to bring the product or service to market. However, if you’re seeking startup funding or partnership opportunities, you’ll need a write a business plan that details market research, operating costs and revenue forecasting. Whichever startup category you fall into, if you’re at square one, our simple business plan template will point you down the right path.

Copy our free simple business plan template so you can fill in the blanks as we explore each element of your business plan. Need help getting your ideas flowing? You’ll also find several startup scenario examples below.

Download free template as .docx

Whether you need a quick-launch overview or an in-depth plan for investors, any business plan should cover the six key elements outlined in our free template and explained below. The main difference in starting a small business versus an investor-funded business is the market research and operational and financial details needed to support the concept.

1. Your Mission or Vision

Start by declaring a “dream statement” for your business. You can call this your executive summary, vision statement or mission. Whatever the name, the first part of your business plan summarizes your idea by answering five questions. Keep it brief, such as an elevator pitch. You’ll expand these answers in the following sections of the simple business plan template.

• What does your business do? Are you selling products, services, information or a combination?
• Where does this happen? Will you conduct business online, in-store, via mobile means or in a specific location or environment?
• Who does your business benefit? Who is your target market and ideal customer for your concept?
• Why would potential customers care? What would make your ideal customers take notice of your business?
• How do your products and/or services outshine the competition? What would make your ideal customers choose you over a competitor?

These answers come easily if you have a solid concept for your business, but don’t worry if you get stuck. Use the rest of your plan template to brainstorm ideas and tactics. You’ll quickly find these answers and possibly new directions as you explore your ideas and options.

2. Offer and Value Proposition

This is where you detail your offer, such as selling products, providing services or both, and why anyone would care. That’s the value proposition. Specifically, you’ll expand on your answers to the first and fourth bullets from your mission/vision.

As you complete this section, you might find that exploring value propositions uncovers marketable business opportunities that you hadn’t yet considered. So spend some time brainstorming the possibilities in this section.

For example, a cottage baker startup specializing in gluten-free or keto-friendly products might be a value proposition that certain audiences care deeply about. Plus, you could expand on that value proposition by offering wedding and other special-occasion cakes that incorporate gluten-free, keto-friendly and traditional cake elements that all guests can enjoy.

3. Audience and Ideal Customer

Here is where you explore bullet point number three, who your business will benefit. Identifying your ideal customer and exploring a broader audience for your goods or services is essential in defining your sales and marketing strategies, plus it helps fine-tune what you offer.

There are many ways to research potential audiences, but a shortcut is to simply identify a problem that people have that your product or service can solve. If you start from the position of being a problem solver, it’s easy to define your audience and describe the wants and needs of your ideal customer for marketing efforts.

Using the cottage baker startup example, a problem people might have is finding fresh-baked gluten-free or keto-friendly sweets. Examining the wants and needs of these people might reveal a target audience that is health-conscious or possibly dealing with health issues and willing to spend more for hard-to-find items.

However, it’s essential to have a customer base that can support your business. You can be too specialized. For example, our baker startup can attract a broader audience and boost revenue by offering a wider selection of traditional baked goods alongside its gluten-free and keto-focused specialties.

4. Revenue Streams, Sales Channels and Marketing

Thanks to our internet-driven economy, startups have many revenue opportunities and can connect with target audiences through various channels. Revenue streams and sales channels also serve as marketing vehicles, so you can cover all three in this section.

Revenue Streams

Revenue streams are the many ways you can make money in your business. In your plan template, list how you’ll make money upon launch, plus include ideas for future expansion. The income possibilities just might surprise you.

For example, our cottage baker startup might consider these revenue streams:

• Product sales : Online, pop-up shops , wholesale and (future) in-store sales
• Affiliate income : Monetize blog and social media posts with affiliate links
• Advertising income : Reserve website space for advertising
• E-book sales : (future) Publish recipe e-books targeting gluten-free and keto-friendly dessert niches
• Video income : (future) Monetize a YouTube channel featuring how-to videos for the gluten-free and keto-friendly dessert niches
• Webinars and online classes : (future) Monetize coaching-style webinars and online classes covering specialty baking tips and techniques
• Members-only content : (future) Monetize a members-only section of the website for specialty content to complement webinars and online classes
• Franchise : (future) Monetize a specialty cottage bakery concept and sell to franchise entrepreneurs

Sales Channels

Sales channels put your revenue streams into action. This section also answers the “where will this happen” question in the second bullet of your vision.

The product sales channels for our cottage bakery example can include:

• Mobile point-of-sale (POS) : A mobile platform such as Shopify or Square POS for managing in-person sales at local farmers’ markets, fairs and festivals
• E-commerce platform : An online store such as Shopify, Square or WooCommerce for online retail sales and wholesale sales orders
• Social media channels : Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest shoppable posts and pins for online sales via social media channels
• Brick-and-mortar location : For in-store sales , once the business has grown to a point that it can support a physical location

Channels that support other income streams might include:

• Affiliate income : Blog section on the e-commerce website and affiliate partner accounts
• Advertising income : Reserved advertising spaces on the e-commerce website
• E-book sales : Amazon e-book sales via Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing
• Video income : YouTube channel with ad monetization
• Webinars and online classes : Online class and webinar platforms that support member accounts, recordings and playback
• Members-only content : Password-protected website content using membership apps such as MemberPress

Nowadays, the line between marketing and sales channels is blurred. Social media outlets, e-books, websites, blogs and videos serve as both marketing tools and income opportunities. Since most are free and those with advertising options are extremely economical, these are ideal marketing outlets for lean startups.

However, many businesses still find value in traditional advertising such as local radio, television, direct mail, newspapers and magazines. You can include these advertising costs in your simple business plan template to help build a marketing plan and budget.

5. Structure, Suppliers and Operations

This section of your simple business plan template explores how to structure and operate your business. Details include the type of business organization your startup will take, roles and responsibilities, supplier logistics and day-to-day operations. Also, include any certifications or permits needed to launch your enterprise in this section.

Our cottage baker example might use a structure and startup plan such as this:

• Business structure : Sole proprietorship with a “doing business as” (DBA) .
• Permits and certifications : County-issued food handling permit and state cottage food certification for home-based food production. Option, check into certified commercial kitchen rentals.
• Roles and responsibilities : Solopreneur, all roles and responsibilities with the owner.
• Supply chain : Bulk ingredients and food packaging via Sam’s Club, Costco, Amazon Prime with annual membership costs. Uline for shipping supplies; no membership needed.
• Day-to-day operations : Source ingredients and bake three days per week to fulfill local and online orders. Reserve time for specialty sales, wholesale partner orders and market events as needed. Ship online orders on alternating days. Update website and create marketing and affiliate blog posts on non-shipping days.

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6. Financial Forecasts

Your final task is to list forecasted business startup and ongoing costs and profit projections in your simple business plan template. Thanks to free business tools such as Square and free marketing on social media, lean startups can launch with few upfront costs. In many cases, cost of goods, shipping and packaging, business permits and printing for business cards are your only out-of-pocket expenses.

Cost Forecast

Our cottage baker’s forecasted lean startup costs might include:

Gross Profit Projections

This helps you determine the retail prices and sales volume required to keep your business running and, hopefully, earn income for yourself. Use product research to spot target retail prices for your goods, then subtract your cost of goods, such as hourly rate, raw goods and supplier costs. The total amount is your gross profit per item or service.

Here are some examples of projected gross profits for our cottage baker:

Bottom Line

Putting careful thought and detail in a business plan is always beneficial, but don’t get so bogged down in planning that you never hit the start button to launch your business . Also, remember that business plans aren’t set in stone. Markets, audiences and technologies change, and so will your goals and means of achieving them. Think of your business plan as a living document and regularly revisit, expand and restructure it as market opportunities and business growth demand.

Is there a template for a business plan?

You can copy our free business plan template and fill in the blanks or customize it in Google Docs, Microsoft Word or another word processing app. This free business plan template includes the six key elements that any entrepreneur needs to consider when launching a new business.

What does a simple business plan include?

A simple business plan is a one- to two-page overview covering six key elements that any budding entrepreneur needs to consider when launching a startup. These include your vision or mission, product or service offering, target audience, revenue streams and sales channels, structure and operations, and financial forecasts.

How can I create a free business plan template?

Start with our free business plan template that covers the six essential elements of a startup. Once downloaded, you can edit this document in Google Docs or another word processing app and add new sections or subsections to your plan template to meet your specific business plan needs.

What basic items should be included in a business plan?

When writing out a business plan, you want to make sure that you cover everything related to your concept for the business,  an analysis of the industry―including potential customers and an overview of the market for your goods or services―how you plan to execute your vision for the business, how you plan to grow the business if it becomes successful and all financial data around the business, including current cash on hand, potential investors and budget plans for the next few years.

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Krista Fabregas is a seasoned eCommerce and online content pro sharing more than 20 years of hands-on know-how with those looking to launch and grow tech-forward businesses. Her expertise includes eCommerce startups and growth, SMB operations and logistics, website platforms, payment systems, side-gig and affiliate income, and multichannel marketing. Krista holds a bachelor's degree in English from The University of Texas at Austin and held senior positions at NASA, a Fortune 100 company, and several online startups.

BUSINESS STRATEGIES

How to write a business plan in 7 easy to follow steps

• Amanda Bellucco Chatham

Creating a successful business is about more than launching a business website or hanging a shingle on your front door. It requires a well-crafted plan that keeps you on track, anticipates obstacles and acts as a concrete roadmap for launching or improving your small business.

Business planning allows you to clarify your vision while providing information to both intrigue and reassure potential investors. The process may seem daunting, but creating a business plan isn’t difficult—and templates like the one below can help simplify the process even further.

Ready to launch your business? Create a website today.

What is a business plan?

A business plan is used by small business owners and entrepreneurs when starting a new business venture. It’s a strategic document that outlines the goals, objectives and strategies of your new or expanding business, including the company's vision, target market, financial projections and operational plans.

A business plan can attract potential partners, convince investors and banks to help you raise capital, and serve as a resource for future growth. Most importantly, you’ll be able to use your business plan as a roadmap for how to structure, operate and manage your new venture, whether it’s a sole proprietorship, a partnership or something larger.

Who needs a business plan?

Every business owner needs a business plan. They’re an essential tool for any person or entity interested in starting a business . There are many benefits, including:

Defining your business idea

Clarifying the market and competitive landscape

Outlining your marketing strategy

Stating your value proposition

Identifying/anticipating potential risks

Seeking investments from banks and other sources

Setting benchmarks, goals and key performance indicators (KPIs)

A business plan also gives you a way to assess the viability of a business before investing too much time or money into it. While all business involves risk, taking the time to create a plan can help mitigate fallout and avoid potentially costly mistakes.

When creating a business plan, it's important to establish your business goals up front and be prepared to spend time researching the market, performing a competitor analysis and understanding your target market .

How to write a business plan in 7 steps

In terms of types of business plans , there are two main formats to choose from: traditional and lean. Here we'll rundown the most traditional plan first, while touching on how to write a more lean business plan for a startup.

A traditional business plan includes every detail and component that defines a business and contributes to its success. It's typically a sizable document of about 30 to 50 pages. Here are the steps to creating one.

Executive summary

Company description, market analysis, organization and management, service or product line, marketing and sales strategies, financial projections and funding requests, 01. executive summary.

Your executive summary should contain a high-level overview of everything included in the plan. It generally provides a short explanation of your business and its goals (e.g., your elevator pitch ). Many authors like to write this section last after fleshing out the sections below.

02. Company description

A company description should include essential details like your business name, the names of your founders, your locations and your company’s mission statement .

Briefly describe your core services (or products if you’re writing an eCommerce business plan ), but don't go into too much detail since you’ll elaborate on this in the service/product section.

Wix offers some helpful mission statement examples if you get stuck. It’s also a good idea to create a vision statement . While your mission statement clarifies your company’s purpose, a vision statement outlines what you want your company to achieve over time.

03. Market analysis

One of the most extensive sections of the business plan, this section requires that you conduct market research and write your conclusions. Include findings for the following: industry background, a SWOT analysis , barriers/obstacles, target market and your business differentiators.

04. Organization and management

This is where you outline how your business is structured and who's in charge, including founders, executive team members, board members, employees and key stakeholders. To this end, it can be helpful to create a visual layout (e.g., org chart) to illustrate your company structure.

05. Service or product line

Create a detailed list of your current and future products and services. If you’re still working on your idea, create a concept statement to describe your idea or product. You should also include a proof of concept (POC), which demonstrates the feasibility of your idea. Wherever applicable, include diagrams, product images and other visual components to illustrate the product life cycle.

06. Marketing and sales strategies

Detail how your business idea translates into selling and delivering your offerings to potential customers. You can start by outlining your brand identity, which includes the colors and fonts you plan to use, your marketing and advertising strategy, and details about planned consumer touchpoints (like your website, mobile app or physical storefront).

07. Financial projections and funding requests

Include financial statements, such as a balance sheet, profit-and-loss statement (P&L), cash flow statement and break-even analysis. It's not uncommon for a business plan to include multiple pages of financial projections and information. You’ll also want to mention how much funding you seek and what you plan to do with it. If you’ve already secured funding, provide details about your investments.

Lean startup business plan format

A lean startup business plan—also referred to as a “lean canvas”—is presented as a problem/solution framework that provides a high-level description of your business idea. A lean plan is a single-page document that provides a basic overview of the most essential aspects of your business. It’s a good way to dip a toe into business planning since it doesn't require the same level of detail as a traditional plan. This includes:

Problem: What problem does your product or service solve, or what need does it fulfill?

Solution: How do you intend to solve it?

Unique value proposition (UVP): Why should people use your product or service versus someone else’s?

Unfair advantage: What do you have that other companies don’t?

Customers: Who are your ideal customers?

Channels: How will those customers find you?

Key metrics: How do you define success? How will you track and measure it?

Revenue streams: How will your business make money?

Cost structure: What will you spend money on (fixed and variable costs)?

Sample business plan for a small business

Want to see what a business plan should look like? We've put together this sample plan, for a beauty business to show you.

Our beauty studio, aims to establish a luxury beauty salon in a prime location, offering a range of premium beauty services and products to cater to upscale clientele. With a focus on exceptional customer service, professional expertise and a relaxing atmosphere, ABC Beauty Studio seeks to become a top destination for people seeking high-quality treatments and personalized care.

Our beauty studio will be a full-service salon offering a variety of beauty services, including skincare treatments, hair styling, makeup services and nail care. Our team of experienced beauty professionals will provide customized solutions to meet each client's unique needs and preferences. The salon will feature a modern and elegant design to create a luxurious and tranquil environment for clients to relax and rejuvenate.

The beauty industry is a thriving market with a growing demand for quality beauty services and products. The target market for our beauty studio includes affluent individuals who value premium beauty experiences and are willing to invest in high-end treatments. The salon's strategic location in a busy shopping district with high foot traffic and visibility will help attract a steady flow of clientele.

ABC Beauty Studio will be led by a team of seasoned beauty professionals with expertise in various areas of the industry, including skincare, haircare, makeup, and business management. The management team will focus on delivering exceptional service, fostering a positive work culture, and implementing effective operational strategies to ensure the salon's success.

Our service line will include facial treatments, haircuts and styling, bridal makeup, manicures and pedicures, waxing services and retail products from top beauty brands. We will also offer personalized beauty consultations to help clients create customized beauty routines and achieve their desired look.

Our beauty studio will implement a multi-faceted marketing approach, including social media campaigns, influencer partnerships, local advertising and promotional events to build brand awareness and attract new clients. We'll also focus on building customer loyalty through loyalty programs, referral incentives, and exclusive promotions.

Initial funding of $200,000 is sought to cover start-up costs, including leasehold improvements, equipment purchases, inventory, marketing expenses, and working capital. Financial projections indicate a steady revenue growth over the first three years, with a focus on achieving profitability by the end of year 2. Sales are forecasted to increase through the expansion of services, repeat business, and targeted marketing initiatives. Continued funding may be required for future growth and expansion plans, including additional locations and service offerings.

Download Wix’s free business plan template

Creating a successful business plan is no easy feat. That’s why we’ve put together a simple, customizable, and free-to-download business plan template that takes the guesswork out of getting started. Use it to create a new business plan or to refresh an existing one.

What are the main benefits of writing a business plan?

Writing a business plan offers a range of benefits that can significantly impact the success and sustainability of a business. Here are the main advantages of creating a well-thought-out one:

Clarity and focus: A business plan helps clarify your company's mission, vision, goals, and strategies, providing a clear roadmap for your business's direction and focus. This can be what takes your business idea from just an idea, to an actual business so it's important.

Strategic planning : It enables the identification of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT analysis), allowing for informed decision-making, effective resource allocation and proactive risk management. When running a business, the more prepared you are for any eventuality, the more successful you're likely to be long term — a business plan helps you plot the potential risks or downturns.

Goal setting: Writing a business plan helps set measurable objectives, timelines, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and evaluate the business's performance against targets.

Communication and alignment: A business plan serves as a communication tool to share the company's vision, objectives, and strategies with stakeholders, employees, investors and partners, ensuring alignment and shared understanding.

Attracting funding and investment : Investors, lenders and potential partners often require a detailed business plan to assess the viability, potential return on investment, and growth prospects of the business.

Continuous improvement: Regularly reviewing and updating the business plan facilitates ongoing evaluation, adjustment and improvement of strategies, operations, and goals to adapt to changing market conditions and drive long-term success.

Tips for filling out your business plan

The hardest part of a journey is always the first step, or so the saying goes. Filling out your business plan can be daunting, using a template helps and we would always recommend doing that.

Remember also, these are best practices—they’re not rules. Do what works for you. The main thing to remember is that these tips can help you move more easily through the planning process, so that you can advance onto the next (exciting) step, which is launching your business.

Consider your goals

What's the purpose of your business? Are you looking to expand, launch a new product line or fund a specific project? Identifying your goals helps you prioritize important information in your business plan.

Fill out what you can

You may already have a vague—or specific—idea of what you want your business to achieve. Go through each section of the template and fill out what you can. We suggest leaving the executive summary blank for now, since it'll be the last thing you write. At the same time be realistic, even though this document is meant to serve as a marketing tool for potential investors, don't exaggerate any numbers or make any false promises.

Dig into the research

Nothing's more motivating than getting some intel about your competitors and your market. If you're truly stuck, a little research can help motivate you and provide valuable insight about what direction to take your business. For example, if you plan to start a landscaping business, learn about the specific pricing offered in your area so that you can differentiate your services and potentially offer better options.

Get help from others

Bouncing your ideas off a friend, mentor or advisor is a great way to get feedback and discover approaches or products to incorporate into your plan. Your network can also give you valuable insight about the industry or even about potential customers. Plus, it's nice to be able to talk through the challenges with someone who understands you and your vision.

Revise and review your business plan

Once complete, step back from your plan and let it "cook." In a day or two, review your plan and make sure that everything is current. Have other people review it too, since having another set of eyes can help identify areas that may be lacking detail or need further explanation.

Once you’ve completed your business plan template, it can become a meaningful resource for developing your mission statement, writing business proposals and planning how to move forward with the marketing, distribution and growth of your products and services.

After launch, you can also analyze your value chain to identify key factors that create value for your customers and maximum profitability for you. This can help you develop a more effective business plan that considers the entire value chain, from research and development to sales and customer support.

Business plan template FAQ

What is the easiest way to write a business plan.

The easiest way to write a business plan is to utilize a template. Templates provide a structured format and guide you through each section, simplifying the process of creating a comprehensive plan.

Is there a template for how to write a business plan?

What are the 7 essential parts of a business plan, related posts.

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8 Business Plan Templates You Can Get for Free

8 min. read

Updated July 3, 2024

A business plan template can be an excellent tool to simplify the creation of your business plan. 

The pre-set structure helps you organize ideas, covers all critical business information, and saves you time and effort on formatting.

The only issue? There are SO many free business plan templates out there. 

So, which ones are actually worth using? 

To help remove the guesswork, I’ve rounded up some of the best business plan templates you can access right now. 

These are listed in no particular order, and each has its benefits and drawbacks.

What to look for in a business plan template

Not all business plan templates are created equal. As you weigh your options and decide which template(s) you’ll use, be sure to review them with the following criteria in mind:

• Easy to edit: A template should save you time. That won’t be the case if you have to fuss around figuring out how to edit the document, or even worse, it doesn’t allow you to edit at all.
• Contains the right sections: A good template should cover all essential sections of a business plan , including the executive summary, product/service description, market/competitive analysis, marketing and sales plan, operations, milestones, and financial projections. 
• Provides guidance: You should be able to trust that the information in a template is accurate. That means the organization or person who created the template is highly credible, known for producing useful resources, and ideally has some entrepreneurial experience.
• Software compatibility: Lastly, you want any template to be compatible with the software platforms you use. More than likely, this means it’s available in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or PDF format at a minimum. 

1. Bplans — A plan with expert guidance

Since you’re already on Bplans, I have to first mention the templates that we have available. 

Our traditional and one-page templates were created by entrepreneurs and business owners with over 80 years of collective planning experience. We revisit and update them annually to ensure they are approachable, thorough, and aligned with our team’s evolving best practices.  

The templates, available in Word, PDF, or Google Doc formats, include in-depth guidance on what to include in each section, expert tips, and links to additional resources. 

Plus, we have over 550 real-world sample business plans you can use for guidance when filling out your template.

Download: Traditional lender-ready business plan template or a simple one-page plan template .

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2. SBA — Introduction to business plans

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers two different business plan templates along with a short planning guide. 

While not incredibly in-depth, it’s enough to help you understand how traditional and lean plans are structured and what information needs to be covered. The templates themselves are more like examples, providing you with a finished product to reference as you write your plan.

The key benefit of using these templates is that they were created by the SBA. While they may provide less guidance, you can be assured that the information and structure meet their expectations.

Explore: The SBA’s planning guide and free templates

3. SCORE — Planning workbook

SCORE’s template is more like a workbook. It includes exercises after each section to help you get your ideas down and turn them into a structured plan.

The market research worksheets are especially useful. They provide a clear framework for identifying your target market and analyzing competitors from multiple angles. Plus, they give you an easy way to document all the information you’re collecting.

You will likely have to remove the exercises in this template to make it investor-ready. But it can be worth it if you’re struggling to get past a blank page and want a more interactive planning method.

Download: SCORE’s business plan template

4. PandaDoc — A template with fillable forms

PandaDoc’s library offers a variety of industry-specific business plan templates that feature a modern design flair and concise instructions. 

These templates are designed for sharing. They include fillable fields and sections for non-disclosure agreements, which may be necessary when sending a plan to investors.  

But the real benefit is their compatibility with PandaDoc’s platform. Yes, they are free, but if you’re a PandaDoc subscriber, you’ll have far more customization options. 

Out of all their templates, the standard business plan template is the most in-depth. The rest, while still useful, go a bit lighter on guidance in favor of tailoring the plan to a specific industry.

Explore: PandaDoc’s business plan template library  

5. Canva — Pitch with your plan

Canva is a great option for building a visually stunning business plan that can be used as a pitch tool. It offers a diverse array of templates built by their in-house team and the larger creative community, meaning the number of options constantly grows.

You will need to verify that the information in the template you choose matches the standard structure of a traditional business plan. 

You should do this with any template, but it’s especially important with any tool that accepts community submissions. While they are likely reviewed and approved, there may still be errors.

Remember, you can only edit these templates within Canva. Luckily, you only need a free subscription, and you may just miss out on some of the visual assets being used. 

To get the most value, it may be best to create a more traditional planning document and transfer that information into Canva. 

Explore: Canva’s business plan gallery

6. ClickUp — The collaborative template

Out of all the project management tools that offer free business plan templates, ClickUp’s is the most approachable.

Rather than throwing you into all the features and expecting you to figure it out—ClickUp provides a thorough startup guide with resource links, images, and videos explaining how to write a plan using the tool. 

There’s also a completed sample plan (structured like an expanded one-page plan) for you to reference and see how the more traditional document can connect to the product management features. You can set goals, target dates, leave comments, and even assign tasks to someone else on your team. 

These features are limited to the ClickUp platform and will not be useful for everyone. They will likely get in the way of writing a plan you can easily share with lenders or investors. 

But this is a great option if you’re looking for a template that makes internal collaboration more fluid and keeps all your information in one place.

Sign Up: Get a free trial of ClickUp and explore their template library

7. Smartsheet — A wide variety of templates

I’m including Smartsheet’s library of templates on this list because of the sheer number of options they provide. 

They have a simple business plan template, a one-page plan, a fill-in-the-blank template, a plan outline, a plan grading rubric, and even an Excel-built project plan. All are perfectly usable and vary in visual style, depth of instructions, and the available format.

Honestly, the only drawback (which is also the core benefit) is that the amount of templates can be overwhelming. If you’re already uncertain which plan option is right for you, the lengthy list they provide may not provide much clarity.

At the same time, it can be a great resource if you want a one-stop shop to view multiple plan types.

8. ReferralRock affiliate marketing business plan

I’m adding ReferralRock’s template to this list due to its specificity. 

It’s not your standard business plan template. The plan is tailored with specific sections and guidance around launching an affiliate marketing business. 

Most of the template is dedicated to defining how to choose affiliates, set commissions, create legal agreements, and track performance.

So, if you plan on starting an affiliate marketing business or program, this template will provide more specific guidance. Just know that you will likely need to reference additional resources when writing the non-industry sections of your plan.

Download: ReferralRock affiliate marketing business plan template

Does it matter what business plan template you use?

The short answer is no. As long as the structure is correct, it saves you time, and it helps you write your business plan , then any template will work. 

What it ultimately comes down to, is what sort of value you hope to get from the template. 

• Do you need more guidance? 
• A simple way to structure your plan? 
• An option that works with a specific tool?
• A way to make your plan more visually interesting?

Hopefully, this list has helped you hone in on an option that meets one (or several) of these needs. Still, it may be worth downloading a few of these templates to determine the right fit. 

And really, what matters most is that you spend time writing a business plan . It will help you avoid early mistakes, determine if you have a viable business, and fully consider what it will take to get up and running. 

If you need additional guidance, check out our library of planning resources . We cover everything from plan formats , to how to write a business plan, and even how to use it as a management tool . 

If you don’t want to waste time researching other templates, you can download our one-page or traditional business plan template and jump right into the planning process.

Kody Wirth is a content writer and SEO specialist for Palo Alto Software—the creator's of Bplans and LivePlan. He has 3+ years experience covering small business topics and runs a part-time content writing service in his spare time.

Table of Contents

• Qualities of a good template
• ReferralRock
• Does the template matter?

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Put your ideas to work with simple templates for every business plan

Every successful business took a lot of planning to get there, and these templates will be cornerstones of your future success. Whether you're looking to attract new business, pitch your services or reimagine your company, with these simple, customizable templates at your fingertips you can turn complexity into something tangible. These templates can become marketing assets or simply remain internal touchpoints for your team. And as your dreams change, you'll always have this template to refer to – it's easy to change what exists on paper. If you're a small business, focusing on your niche can help you dominate in your field, and you can forge a plan to figure out exactly what that niche might be and how to target your ideal customer . When it's time to share your vision with stakeholders, craft a presentation that outlines your plan succinctly and with style. Let these templates from Microsoft Designer be your partner in business strategy for years to come.

Business Plan Templates

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2 Essential Templates For Starting Your Business. Available as an interactive PDF or a Google Docs template.

With this business plan template, you'll be able to:

• Write a company description that sells your story
• Plan for the future: lay out goals and metrics for success
• Describe your product line in detail and plan for how to stand out from competitors
• Consider any legal formalities that require attention when starting your business
• Put together necessary financial projections to make a strong start
• Create your buyer persona and determine your product/marketing fit

Build A Business Plan That Works

Available as a one-page interactive PDF and a full template on both Google Docs and Microsoft Word!

Whether you’re starting a business or drafting a formalized document with  your current business goals, it’s important to clearly defi ne the scope of all aspects of the venture — from mission, to target customers, to fi nances, and beyond.

When just starting out, it can be tempting to think of a business plan as simply your company’s name and a description of your product or service. But in reality, planning a business involves thinking through a lot more details.

In this business plan template we’ll guide you through the steps of writing company and product descriptions, setting sales and marketing goals and plans, and thinking through legal and fi nancial logistics. We've included a  plain text, designed , and  completed example version of this template. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do you write a business plan.

A business plan is a formal written document that you can use to identify the purpose of your company, make important decisions about your future and help grow your company. HubSpot's free business plan templates provides guidance to establishing your company mission, customer research, competition, and a business strategy to profitability.

Why do I need to fill out the information requested?

We will always keep your personal information safe..

We ask for your information in exchange for a valuable resource in order to (a) improve your browsing experience by personalizing the HubSpot site to your needs; (b) send information to you that we think may be of interest to you by email or other means; (c) send you marketing communications that we think may be of value to you. You can read more about our privacy policy here .

Where can I get a free business plan template?

HubSpot's Free Business Plan Templates are the best way to create a professional, thorough business plan. The templates include instructions and everything you need to know about starting your company.

Is this really free?

Absolutely.

Just sharing some free knowledge that we hope you’ll find useful. Keep us in mind next time you have marketing questions!

What are the basic format of a business plan?

A business plan is a written document that outlines the company's goals, strategy and implementation. The format of the plan varies depending on the type of organization (e.g., for-profit or nonprofit) and size, but most plans share some common features such as an overview, executive summary, and financial information.

What is the best business plan template?

A great business plan template clearly defines the scope of the venture -- from mission, to target customers, to finances, and beyond. HubSpot's business plan template will guide you through the steps of writing company and product descriptions, setting sales and marketing goals and plans, and thinking through legal and financial logistics.

What is needed to start a business?

If you're thinking about starting a business, you'll need to do some research first. You can't just start a business without doing any market research. Market research will tell you if there's an opportunity to turn your idea into a successful business. After that, write your business plan so that you know how much money and time it will take for the project to succeed. Use HubSpot's free business plan template today!

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To help entrepreneurs and business owners start and grow their own businesses, we have compiled over 250 free business plan samples and examples within a variety of industries. From startups to established companies, our business plan templates provide the guidance and structure necessary for success.

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Business plan template

If you’re looking for a way to start your business off on the right foot, a business plan template can help you establish the foundation for your strategy. Get started in a few clicks with Asana’s free business plan template.

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You’re pumped—you just thought of the greatest business idea ever. You want to get started, but you don’t have a plan laid out. You need a loan to get your idea off the ground, and the bank wants to see an in-depth business plan. We’re here to help.

What is a business plan template?

A business plan template is a framework that helps you solidify your ideas in an organized format. Our free business plan template walks you through how to create a new business from scratch, or re-imagine your existing business in a new market.

What components are included in a business plan template?

Our business plan template covers what an organization wants to achieve within three to five years. By using our template, you’ll have a place to capture all of the major information you need in order to complete your business plan. That includes:

Company description : Information like your executive summary , your company’s mission statement and vision, and your founder’s bio. 

Product and services: A high-level overview of what your company provides, including core products or services. This may also include how your product is developed, any potential screenshots or prototypes of your product, and pricing plans.

Marketing plan: How you plan to bring your product into market at a high level. You can add information like a SWOT analysis , target market research, and brand positioning in this section.

Financial plan: Important financial information such as balance sheets, a break-even analysis, and your cash flow projections. 

Management and organization information: Information on your company’s founders, executive team, and the board of directors.

How to use our free business plan template

Using Asana’s free business plan template is simple. Start by creating a new project with our free template. From there, add relevant information for your specific business plan in the sections provided in our template. If there’s more information you want to include in your business plan, you’re free to add sections, custom fields, or additional tasks to make this template fit your needs.

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How do I create a business plan template? .css-i4fobf{-webkit-transition:-webkit-transform 200ms ease-in-out;transition:transform 200ms ease-in-out;-webkit-transform:rotateZ(0);-moz-transform:rotateZ(0);-ms-transform:rotateZ(0);transform:rotateZ(0);}

Instead of taking the time to create a business plan from scratch, start the process off with Asana’s free template.To further customize your template, add evergreen information about your specific business, such as your business model, company name, address, mission statement, value proposition, or target audience. Adding these details to your template lets you avoid documenting this information from scratch every time you create a new business plan.

What components should I include in a business plan template?

Business plan templates typically contain five main sections: a company description, products and services, a marketing plan, basic management and organization information, and your current financial plan.

How long should my business plan be?

Short answer—as long as you need it to be. The long answer is that your business plan should have the answers to specific questions on how your business is run, from the perspective of an investor. The goal of a business plan is to highlight your business strategy for the next three to five years. This means any important operational, financial, and strategic information should be included. 

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Product Marketing Business Plan Design

I. executive summary.

This Product Marketing Business Plan outlines the strategic approach for marketing [Your Company Name]’s latest product. This plan focuses on key aspects such as product positioning, target audience identification, and promotional tactics that will drive the product's success in the market. The financial forecasts and marketing budget have been meticulously planned to ensure the effective allocation of resources while maximizing Return on Investment (ROI).

In terms of financials, the projected marketing budget for this product is set at $500,000 for the first year, with an expected revenue of $2,000,000, providing a solid foundation for profitability. The marketing efforts will be spread across various channels including digital, print, and direct marketing, ensuring a well-rounded and comprehensive outreach.

The implementation plan will span over a 12-month period, beginning in January 2051, with a focus on mitigating potential risks such as market competition and economic downturns. A detailed risk and mitigation strategy will ensure the plan's resilience, ultimately guiding the product to market dominance.

II. Product Positioning

A. market analysis.

The following table provides an overview of the competitive landscape within which [Your Company Name]’s product will be positioned. Competitors include established brands as well as emerging market entrants.

Kinford Co. dominates the market with a strong brand and customer loyalty, which suggests that breaking into the market will require significant branding efforts. Lynx Dynamics's innovation in product features implies a need for continuous product development to remain competitive. Meanwhile, Happy Cozy's distribution strength highlights the importance of building a robust distribution network to ensure widespread product availability.

Understanding the competitive landscape is crucial for positioning [Your Company Name]’s product effectively. By leveraging the weaknesses of these competitors, such as their pricing models or gaps in innovation, [Your Company Name] can carve out a unique market position that resonates with the target audience.

B. Product Differentiation

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): The product’s unique selling proposition will focus on delivering exceptional value through advanced features and superior customer service. This differentiation will be communicated clearly in all marketing materials.

Brand Messaging: The brand messaging will emphasize innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, aligning with the needs and preferences of the target audience.

Product Features: Highlight the top three features that distinguish the product from competitors, ensuring they align with the identified market needs.

Customer Experience: The emphasis will be placed on creating a seamless and enjoyable customer experience, from the initial purchase to after-sales support.

Clearly defining and communicating the product’s unique features and benefits is essential for differentiation in a crowded market. By focusing on what sets the product apart, [Your Company Name] can attract and retain customers who are seeking these specific attributes.

III. Target Audience

A. demographic analysis.

Age Group: The primary target audience consists of individuals aged 25-45, who are likely to be early adopters of new products and technologies.

Income Level: Targeting middle to high-income earners who have the purchasing power to invest in premium products.

Geographical Location: Focus on urban areas with a high concentration of the target demographic, ensuring efficient resource allocation.

By identifying and understanding the demographic characteristics of the target audience, [Your Company Name] can tailor marketing messages and strategies to resonate with potential customers, increasing the likelihood of successful product adoption.

B. Psychographic Analysis

Lifestyle: Target individuals who value convenience, innovation, and high-quality products, and who are willing to pay a premium for these attributes.

Buying Behavior: Focus on consumers who are likely to engage in research before making a purchase and who value brand reputation and product reviews.

Motivations: Appeal to the emotional and practical needs of the target audience, ensuring that the product’s features and benefits align with their motivations.

Understanding the psychographics of the target audience allows [Your Company Name] to craft marketing strategies that speak directly to the desires and needs of potential customers, fostering stronger connections and brand loyalty.

IV. Promotional Tactics

A. digital marketing.

Social Media Campaigns: Utilize platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to reach a broad audience with targeted ads and engaging content.

Email Marketing: Implement personalized email campaigns to nurture leads and convert them into loyal customers.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Optimize the company website and product pages to rank higher in search engine results, driving organic traffic.

Digital marketing provides an efficient and cost-effective way to reach a large audience. By leveraging the power of social media, email marketing, and SEO, [Your Company Name] can increase brand visibility and drive sales.

B. Traditional Marketing

Print Advertising: Place ads in relevant industry magazines and newspapers to reach an audience that prefers traditional media.

Direct Mail Campaigns: Send personalized direct mail to potential customers, offering special promotions and product information.

Event Sponsorship: Sponsor industry events to increase brand exposure and establish credibility within the market.

While digital marketing is essential, traditional marketing tactics remain valuable for reaching specific segments of the target audience. Combining both approaches will ensure comprehensive market coverage.

C. Sales Promotions

Discount Offers: Introduce limited-time discounts to create a sense of urgency and encourage purchases.

Loyalty Programs: Develop a customer loyalty program that rewards repeat purchases and fosters long-term relationships.

Bundling Strategies: Offer product bundles at a discounted price to increase the average transaction value and enhance customer satisfaction.

Referral Programs: Implement a referral program that incentivizes existing customers to bring in new business, expanding the customer base.

Sales promotions are effective tools for driving short-term sales and building long-term customer relationships. By strategically planning promotions, [Your Company Name] can boost sales while maintaining profitability.

V. Product Distribution Strategy

A. distribution channels.

Online Channels: Leverage e-commerce platforms and the company’s website to reach a global audience with ease.

Retail Partnerships: Establish partnerships with key retailers to ensure product availability in high-traffic stores.

Direct Sales: Implement a direct sales strategy to connect with customers through personalized interactions and build stronger relationships.

Wholesale Distribution: Engage with wholesalers to distribute the product in bulk, expanding market reach.

A well-rounded distribution strategy that includes both online and offline channels is crucial for maximizing product reach. By balancing these channels, [Your Company Name] can ensure that the product is available wherever customers prefer to shop.

B. Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Inventory Management: Implement robust inventory management practices to avoid stockouts and overstock situations.

Shipping and Delivery: Partner with reliable logistics providers to ensure timely and efficient product delivery.

Supplier Relationships: Maintain strong relationships with suppliers to ensure a consistent supply of high-quality materials and products.

Effective logistics and supply chain management are critical for maintaining customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. By optimizing these areas, [Your Company Name] can deliver products quickly and reliably, enhancing the overall customer experience.

VI. Marketing Budget

A. budget allocation.

Digital Marketing: Allocate $200,000 for digital marketing activities, including social media, email campaigns, and SEO.

Traditional Marketing: Set aside $150,000 for traditional marketing efforts such as print advertising, direct mail, and event sponsorships.

Sales Promotions: Budget $100,000 for sales promotions, including discounts, loyalty programs, and referral incentives.

Miscellaneous Expenses: Reserve $50,000 for unexpected marketing expenses that may arise during the campaign.

Proper budget allocation is essential for the successful execution of the marketing plan. By distributing the budget across various channels, [Your Company Name] can ensure a well-rounded approach that maximizes reach and impact.

B. Financial Projections

The following chart and table present the financial projections for the marketing budget and expected revenue:

The budget allocation is expected to generate a total revenue of $2,000,000, providing a substantial return on investment. The emphasis on digital marketing reflects the growing importance of online channels in driving sales and brand awareness. Traditional marketing, while still valuable, is allocated a smaller portion of the budget to balance cost-effectiveness with reach.

These projections indicate a strong potential for the product’s success in the market. By carefully monitoring the performance of each marketing channel, [Your Company Name] can make adjustments as needed to optimize the campaign’s effectiveness and ensure the best possible outcome.

VII. Implementation Plan

A. timeline overview.

The implementation of the Product Marketing Business Plan will be carried out over a 12-month period, beginning in January 2051. The following table outlines the key milestones and activities scheduled throughout the year:

The timeline provides a clear roadmap for the execution of the marketing plan, with each activity strategically scheduled to ensure a smooth and efficient rollout. The initial focus on market research and product positioning will lay a solid foundation for the subsequent marketing efforts, ensuring that all activities are aligned with the overall strategy.

By adhering to this timeline, [Your Company Name] can ensure that each phase of the plan is executed effectively and on schedule. Regular performance evaluations will be crucial for identifying any necessary adjustments and ensuring that the marketing efforts remain on track to achieve the desired outcomes.

B. Roles and Responsibilities

Market Research Team: Responsible for gathering and analyzing market data, identifying target audience segments, and providing insights for product positioning.

Product Management Team: In charge of developing the product positioning strategy, ensuring that the product's unique selling proposition is clearly defined and communicated.

Digital Marketing Team: Tasked with executing digital marketing campaigns, including social media, SEO, and email marketing, to drive online engagement and sales.

Marketing Team: Oversees traditional marketing activities, including print advertising, direct mail campaigns, and event sponsorships, to reach a broader audience.

Sales & Marketing Team: Focuses on implementing sales promotion initiatives, such as discounts, loyalty programs, and referral incentives, to boost sales and customer retention.

Logistics Team: Manages the distribution channels and supply chain, ensuring that the product is available to customers in a timely and efficient manner.

Executive Team: Responsible for overseeing the entire marketing plan, making high-level decisions, and conducting performance evaluations to assess the effectiveness of the strategies.

Clearly defined roles and responsibilities are essential for the successful execution of the marketing plan. By assigning specific tasks to dedicated teams, [Your Company Name] can ensure that each aspect of the plan is handled with expertise and accountability.

VIII. Risk and Mitigation Strategy

A. market risks.

Competitive Pressure: The entry of new competitors or aggressive strategies by existing players could impact market share. To mitigate this risk, [Your Company Name] will focus on continuous innovation and differentiation to maintain a competitive edge.

Changing Consumer Preferences: Shifts in consumer preferences could affect product demand. To address this, the company will implement regular market research and adapt the product offering as needed.

Economic Downturn: An economic recession could reduce consumer spending, affecting sales. To mitigate this, [Your Company Name] will explore cost-effective marketing strategies and consider diversifying the product portfolio to appeal to budget-conscious consumers.

Market risks are an inherent part of any business strategy, but with proactive planning and flexibility, [Your Company Name] can navigate these challenges effectively. The focus on innovation and market adaptability will be crucial in maintaining resilience against competitive and economic pressures.

B. Operational Risks

Supply Chain Disruptions: Any disruption in the supply chain could delay product availability. To mitigate this risk, the company will establish relationships with multiple suppliers and maintain a buffer stock of key materials.

Logistics Challenges: Issues in logistics, such as shipping delays or inventory mismanagement, could impact customer satisfaction. To address this, [Your Company Name] will partner with reliable logistics providers and implement robust inventory management systems.

Technology Failures: Reliance on digital platforms for marketing and sales introduces the risk of technology failures. The company will implement backup systems and regularly update software to ensure smooth operations.

Operational risks can have a significant impact on the overall success of the marketing plan. By proactively addressing potential supply chain, logistics, and technology challenges, [Your Company Name] can minimize disruptions and ensure a seamless execution of the marketing strategy.

C. Financial Risks

Budget Overruns: The risk of exceeding the marketing budget could strain financial resources. To mitigate this, [Your Company Name] will closely monitor expenses and implement cost control measures throughout the campaign.

Revenue Shortfalls: If the product fails to generate the expected revenue, it could impact overall business performance. The company will conduct regular performance reviews and adjust the marketing strategy as needed to improve sales.

Currency Fluctuations: For international markets, fluctuations in currency exchange rates could affect profitability. [Your Company Name] will use hedging strategies to manage this risk and protect against adverse currency movements.

Financial risks require careful planning and ongoing oversight to ensure that the marketing plan remains financially viable. By monitoring expenses and revenue closely, [Your Company Name] can make timely adjustments that keep the plan on track.

IX. Conclusion and Next Steps

A. conclusion.

This Product Marketing Business Plan of [Your Company Name] outlines a comprehensive approach to launching and promoting the company’s latest product. Through detailed market analysis, targeted audience identification, and well-planned promotional tactics, the plan aims to position the product for success in a competitive market. The careful allocation of a $500,000 marketing budget, combined with a robust implementation timeline, ensures that the product will reach its intended audience and generate the projected $2,000,000 in revenue.

Moreover, the risk and mitigation strategies discussed in this plan will help [Your Company Name] navigate potential challenges, ensuring that the marketing efforts remain resilient and adaptable. By focusing on innovation, operational efficiency, and financial prudence, [Your Company Name] is well-positioned to achieve its marketing objectives and drive long-term business growth.

B. Next Steps

The following next steps outline the immediate actions required to begin the implementation of the Product Marketing Business Plan:

Finalize Product Positioning: Complete the product positioning strategy and ensure all marketing materials align with the defined brand messaging.

Develop Marketing Campaigns: Begin the development of digital and traditional marketing campaigns, focusing on content creation, ad placements, and promotional offers.

Establish Distribution Partnerships: Secure partnerships with key retailers and logistics providers to ensure a smooth distribution process.

Monitor and Adjust: Set up regular performance reviews and monitoring systems to track the effectiveness of the marketing efforts and make necessary adjustments.

By following these steps, [Your Company Name] will be able to effectively launch its product into the market, achieve its revenue targets, and build a strong foundation for future growth.

Marketing Templates @ Template.net

Printing And Marketing Business Plan

Printing, copying and marketing companies can organize financial plans and predict profit and loss for their auto sales in the public and private sector with this free, printable business plan.

Sample text from Printing And Marketing Business Plan:

1.0 Executive Summary

COMPANY NAME is a 100% woman privately owned and operated S Corporation with well established relationships in the rapidly-growing Tri-Valley region of [CITY]'s [LOCATION]. It was incorporated in 2004. COMPANY NAME was founded by INSERT NAME and fully operated by INSERT NAMES who is established as Vice President of Sales and Acquisitions.

Located in the rapidly-growing Tri-Valley region of [CITY]'s [LOCATION], [NAME] is located at the crossroads of I-580 and I-680. [CITY] is 14.01 square miles in size and currently has an approximate population of 41,907 (and growing).

[CITY] has a mild climate and a positive attitude toward commercial, industrial and residential growth. COMPANY NAME already does well in the area and even nationwide and overseas due to the company's availability and presence online.

In the early 1990s, INSERT NAME launched his career in the printing industry with a sales position at a regional auto sales publication. Over the next few years, he made great professional strides, continuing his career with the #1 rated local daily newspaper. In 1995, he took the next step in his career as a sales representative with one of the premier, high-end printers in the country, Lithographix. INSERT NAME spent the next decade working for various high-end commercial printers, learning the industry, increasing his printing knowledge, and building relationships. His growing list of clients learned that his experience and expertise were second to none. In early 2004, these customers began expressing their desire to have Mike manage ALL of their printing needs, not just the high-end projects. There was a need in the marketplace to have a company that could facilitate all levels of printing. And so, in the fall of 2004, in response to these client demands, INSERT NAME, launched COMPANY NAME.

INSERT NAME has over 12 years of marketing and sales experience across a broad spectrum of business types. She has worked as a marketing manager for several public and private entities. Her in-depth understanding of marketing and sales needs across various business platforms leaves her uniquely qualified to help clients strategize and fulfill their own promotional needs.

1.1 Objectives

1. To generate generous annual sales by the third year of this plan.

2. To establish a tiered client hierarchy:

• 20% long term, established customers

• 60% customers with ongoing irregular and periodic needs

• 20% new customers with unestablished needs.

3. To hire permanent employees and eliminate the need for independent contractors, providing more job stability to the area.

4. To establish business and sell services in the greater Northern and Southern [STATE] areas.

5. To be a true one-stop operation by being able to accommodate all of a customer's printing needs from consulting and design assistance to printing, binding, and distribution. Our goal is to eliminate the need for our customers to source any printing outside of our scope.

6. To promote an awareness of green technology and eco-friendly product and publication and so as to support sales and income goals through aggressive marketing and telephone contact. This awareness will come from both marketing and word-of-mouth referrals.

1.2 Mission

COMPANY NAME is a printing solutions provider dedicated to offering a single source for all printing needs with a priority on earning and maintaining our customer's trust. COMPANY NAME will maintain a consistent and reasonable margin while providing customers with a fair price and exceptional service in the United States and abroad. The company will also maintain a friendly, fair, and creative work environment that respects new ideas and hard work.

With the demise of the newspaper industry many advertisers are seeking ways to reach each consumer in the market place without major expenses of direct mail and postage costs. COMPANY NAME has created a solution, the PRODUCT NAME. [INSERT PRODUCT FUNCTION]. Customers are able to pick and choose market zone coverage by zip codes and receive a cost effective way to reach consumers in their desired demographic areas.

CHAIN RETAILER Business Value Book, COMPANY NAME and their advertising team has been chosen to produce the quarterly CORPORATE STORE book for the REGION market. Many other CHAIN RETAILERS are now considering COMPANY NAME to produce the very same advertising vehicle for their warehouses.

Both of these vehicles allow our sales force to cross sell into all vehicles and build relationships for our design, print and collateral capabilities.

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Business Roadmap Templates

• July 2, 2024
• Project Management

What are Business Roadmap Templates?

These templates are strategic planning tools that outline the key milestones and deliverables of a project. They provide a visual timeline that helps teams understand the sequence of tasks and the dependencies between them. These templates can cover various types of roadmaps, including product, marketing, technology, and organizational development. By using a standardized template, businesses can ensure consistency and clarity in their project planning.

Related Article: Project Portfolio Tracker Template 

Key Components of Business Roadmap Template

• Objectives and Goals : Every Business Roadmap Template starts with clear objectives and goals. These define the purpose of the project and the desired outcomes. Setting specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals helps ensure the project’s success.
• Milestones : Milestones are critical points in the project timeline that signify major achievements or deliverables. They help track progress and ensure that the project stays on schedule. Milestones provide a sense of accomplishment and motivation for the team.
• Timeline : The timeline is a crucial element of any Business Roadmap Template. It provides a visual representation of the project’s duration, including start and end dates for each task and milestone. A well-defined timeline helps manage expectations and ensures that the project remains on track.
• Tasks and Activities : Detailed tasks and activities are listed to break down the project into manageable steps. Each task should have a clear description, assigned resources, and a deadline. This ensures that everyone understands their responsibilities and can work efficiently.
• Dependencies : Dependencies illustrate the relationships between tasks. They show which tasks must be completed before others can begin. Understanding dependencies helps identify potential bottlenecks and allows for better resource allocation.
• Resources : A comprehensive Business Roadmap Template includes a list of required resources, such as personnel, equipment, and budget. Proper resource planning ensures that the project has everything it needs to proceed without interruptions.
• Stakeholders : Identifying key stakeholders and their roles is essential for successful project management. Stakeholders can include team members, project sponsors, customers, and other relevant parties. Understanding stakeholder expectations and maintaining open communication is crucial for project success.
• Risk Management : Risk management involves identifying potential risks and developing strategies to mitigate them. A robust Business Roadmap Template includes a risk management plan to address uncertainties and ensure the project remains on course.
• Performance Metrics : Tracking performance metrics helps measure the project’s progress and success. Metrics can include key performance indicators (KPIs), such as budget adherence, timeline compliance, and quality standards. Regularly reviewing these metrics allows for timely adjustments and continuous improvement.
• Review and Adaptation : A successful Business Roadmap Template incorporates regular review and adaptation processes. This ensures that the project remains aligned with changing business needs and external factors. Flexibility and adaptability are key to maintaining project relevance and effectiveness.

Related Article: Stakeholder Matrix Template

Role in Project Management

These Business Roadmap Templates play a vital role in project management by providing a structured approach to planning and execution. They help ensure that all team members understand the project’s goals, timelines, and tasks. This alignment is critical for achieving project success. Here are some keyways in which these templates contribute to effective project management:

Clarity and Communication : These templates provide a clear and concise way to communicate the project’s plan to all stakeholders. This helps ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards the same goals. Clear communication reduces misunderstandings and improves collaboration.

Alignment and Focus : By outlining the project’s objectives, milestones, and tasks, these templates help teams stay focused on their priorities. This alignment ensures that resources are used efficiently and that the project remains on track.

Resource Management : Effective resource management is crucial for project success. This template help identify the necessary resources and allocate them appropriately. This prevents resource shortages and ensures that the project has the support it needs to succeed.

Risk Management : Identifying potential risks and developing mitigation strategies is a key aspect of project management. Business Roadmap Templates include risk management plans that help teams anticipate and address challenges before they become critical issues.

Related Article: Inventory Management Templates

Performance Tracking : Tracking progress against the roadmap’s milestones and performance metrics allows for timely adjustments. This helps ensure that the project stays on schedule and meets its objectives. Regular performance reviews provide opportunities for continuous improvement.

Stakeholder Engagement : Engaging stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle is essential for success. This Template helps identify key stakeholders and outline their roles and responsibilities. This ensures that stakeholders remain informed and engaged, leading to better decision-making and support.

Flexibility and Adaptability : Projects often encounter changes in scope, resources, or external factors. These templates provide a structured approach to reviewing and adapting the project plan. This flexibility helps maintain project relevance and effectiveness in a dynamic environment.

Related Article: Project Schedule Template

Best Practices for Using Business Roadmap Template

To maximize the effectiveness of Business Roadmap Template, businesses should follow best practices. These practices ensure that the templates are used correctly and provide the desired outcomes. Here are some best practices for using these templates:

• Define Clear Objectives : Start with clear objectives and goals for the project. This ensures that the roadmap aligns with business needs and provides a clear direction.
• Engage Stakeholders : Involve key stakeholders in the planning process. This ensures that their input and expectations are considered and increases their commitment to the project.
• Use Visuals : Utilize visual elements, such as charts and graphs, to make the roadmap easy to understand. Visuals help communicate complex information and enhance stakeholder engagement.
• Keep it Simple : Avoid overcomplicating the roadmap with excessive details. Focus on the key milestones, tasks, and dependencies. A simple and clear roadmap is more effective and easier to follow.
• Regularly Review and Update : Conduct regular reviews of the roadmap to ensure that it remains relevant and accurate. Update the roadmap as needed to reflect changes in the project scope, resources, or external factors.
• Communicate Effectively : Use the roadmap as a communication tool to keep stakeholders informed. Regularly share updates and progress reports to maintain transparency and build trust.
• Monitor Performance : Track performance metrics and milestones to ensure that the project stays on track. Use these metrics to identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments.
• Be Flexible : Maintain flexibility in the project plan to adapt to changes. A flexible roadmap allows for adjustments and helps the project remain effective in a dynamic environment.

Related Article: business plan

Business Roadmap Templates serve as essential tools in project management. They provide a structured approach to planning and executing projects, ensuring that teams remain aligned and focused on their objectives. By outlining clear goals, milestones, and tasks, these templates help manage resources, mitigate risks, and track performance. Businesses that utilize these templates can achieve better project outcomes and drive organizational success. To maximize their effectiveness, it is crucial to define clear objectives, engage stakeholders, use visuals, keep the roadmap simple, regularly review and update it, communicate effectively, monitor performance, and maintain flexibility. By following these best practices, businesses can leverage business roadmap template to navigate their projects successfully and achieve their strategic goals.

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