DC DOING BUSINESS GUIDE 2018/2019 25
SAMPLE BUSINESS PLAN OUTLINE
COMPONENT NOTES
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Briefly and convincingly describe the fundamental elements of your business, including: the
problem your customers have, your solution, how you will make money, who your target
customers are, what your competitive advantage is, who is on your team, and your financial
summary. Write this section last since it summarizes the remaining components of your
business plan.
BUSINESS HISTORY, BACKGROUND, AND OBJECTIVES
Describe when, how, and why you formed the company and its development so far. List your
short term (next 12 months) and long term objectives.
BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
Describe how environmental factors such as the economy, changes in population, interest
rates, changes in levels of employment, climate for small disadvantaged businesses in your
market, etc. may affect your business.
PRODUCT AND/OR SERVICES
List and describe your present products/services. Describe any planned changes or additions to
your products/services within the next year.
PRESENT MARKET
Who needs to buy your product or services? Describe the target market, including geographic
location, relevant demographics, and growth potential.
COMPETITION
Who are your primary competitors in your market(s) and what are their strengths and
weaknesses? What are your company’s competitive advantages and disadvantages?
MARKETING PLAN
Describe the marketing techniques, strategies, and tools you will use in the future to promote
your business.
BUSINESS RESOURCES
List the major operating equipment that your company owns or leases. Identify other outside
resources used/or needed to fulfill customer requirements. Describe the skilled labor and
employee training necessary to meet your company needs.
MANAGEMENT AND ORGANIZATION
Who are you? Who are the owners of your business? Describe your management team, its
strengths and weaknesses, and professional development opportunities.
FINANCIAL PLAN/DATA
Explain sales and profit trends. Outline your strategy and timing for obtaining additional capital
for expansion and/or to meet current needs. Detail your credits, debts, liabilities, warranties,
claims, etc.
REMEMBER
There are many formats and
elements you should consider
when drafting a business plan.
You can access over 500 plan
templates at bplans.com.
Be concise, clear, and
convincing. Create a
longer version of your
business plan for your own
reference, if needed.
Use charts, graphs, and
diagrams when appropriate.
Always send in PDF.
From Microsoft Word, go to
Save As Save As Type PDF.
/bplans.com