table of contents on business plan

Business Plan Example and Template

Learn how to create a business plan

What is a Business Plan?

A business plan is a document that contains the operational and financial plan of a business, and details how its objectives will be achieved. It serves as a road map for the business and can be used when pitching investors or financial institutions for debt or equity financing .

A business plan should follow a standard format and contain all the important business plan elements. Typically, it should present whatever information an investor or financial institution expects to see before providing financing to a business.

Contents of a Business Plan

A business plan should be structured in a way that it contains all the important information that investors are looking for. Here are the main sections of a business plan:

1. Title Page

The title page captures the legal information of the business, which includes the registered business name, physical address, phone number, email address, date, and the company logo.

2. Executive Summary

The executive summary is the most important section because it is the first section that investors and bankers see when they open the business plan. It provides a summary of the entire business plan. It should be written last to ensure that you don’t leave any details out. It must be short and to the point, and it should capture the reader’s attention. The executive summary should not exceed two pages.

3. Industry Overview

The industry overview section provides information about the specific industry that the business operates in. Some of the information provided in this section includes major competitors, industry trends, and estimated revenues. It also shows the company’s position in the industry and how it will compete in the market against other major players.

4. Market Analysis and Competition

The market analysis section details the target market for the company’s product offerings. This section confirms that the company understands the market and that it has already analyzed the existing market to determine that there is adequate demand to support its proposed business model.

Market analysis includes information about the target market’s demographics , geographical location, consumer behavior, and market needs. The company can present numbers and sources to give an overview of the target market size.

A business can choose to consolidate the market analysis and competition analysis into one section or present them as two separate sections.

5. Sales and Marketing Plan

The sales and marketing plan details how the company plans to sell its products to the target market. It attempts to present the business’s unique selling proposition and the channels it will use to sell its goods and services. It details the company’s advertising and promotion activities, pricing strategy, sales and distribution methods, and after-sales support.

6. Management Plan

The management plan provides an outline of the company’s legal structure, its management team, and internal and external human resource requirements. It should list the number of employees that will be needed and the remuneration to be paid to each of the employees.

Any external professionals, such as lawyers, valuers, architects, and consultants, that the company will need should also be included. If the company intends to use the business plan to source funding from investors, it should list the members of the executive team, as well as the members of the advisory board.

7. Operating Plan

The operating plan provides an overview of the company’s physical requirements, such as office space, machinery, labor, supplies, and inventory . For a business that requires custom warehouses and specialized equipment, the operating plan will be more detailed, as compared to, say, a home-based consulting business. If the business plan is for a manufacturing company, it will include information on raw material requirements and the supply chain.

8. Financial Plan

The financial plan is an important section that will often determine whether the business will obtain required financing from financial institutions, investors, or venture capitalists. It should demonstrate that the proposed business is viable and will return enough revenues to be able to meet its financial obligations. Some of the information contained in the financial plan includes a projected income statement , balance sheet, and cash flow.

9. Appendices and Exhibits

The appendices and exhibits part is the last section of a business plan. It includes any additional information that banks and investors may be interested in or that adds credibility to the business. Some of the information that may be included in the appendices section includes office/building plans, detailed market research , products/services offering information, marketing brochures, and credit histories of the promoters.

Business Plan Template

Here is a basic template that any business can use when developing its business plan:

Section 1: Executive Summary

• Present the company’s mission.
• Describe the company’s product and/or service offerings.
• Give a summary of the target market and its demographics.
• Summarize the industry competition and how the company will capture a share of the available market.
• Give a summary of the operational plan, such as inventory, office and labor, and equipment requirements.

Section 2: Industry Overview

• Describe the company’s position in the industry.
• Describe the existing competition and the major players in the industry.
• Provide information about the industry that the business will operate in, estimated revenues, industry trends, government influences, as well as the demographics of the target market.

Section 3: Market Analysis and Competition

• Define your target market, their needs, and their geographical location.
• Describe the size of the market, the units of the company’s products that potential customers may buy, and the market changes that may occur due to overall economic changes.
• Give an overview of the estimated sales volume vis-à-vis what competitors sell.
• Give a plan on how the company plans to combat the existing competition to gain and retain market share.

Section 4: Sales and Marketing Plan

• Describe the products that the company will offer for sale and its unique selling proposition.
• List the different advertising platforms that the business will use to get its message to customers.
• Describe how the business plans to price its products in a way that allows it to make a profit.
• Give details on how the company’s products will be distributed to the target market and the shipping method.

Section 5: Management Plan

• Describe the organizational structure of the company.
• List the owners of the company and their ownership percentages.
• List the key executives, their roles, and remuneration.
• List any internal and external professionals that the company plans to hire, and how they will be compensated.
• Include a list of the members of the advisory board, if available.

Section 6: Operating Plan

• Describe the location of the business, including office and warehouse requirements.
• Describe the labor requirement of the company. Outline the number of staff that the company needs, their roles, skills training needed, and employee tenures (full-time or part-time).
• Describe the manufacturing process, and the time it will take to produce one unit of a product.
• Describe the equipment and machinery requirements, and if the company will lease or purchase equipment and machinery, and the related costs that the company estimates it will incur.
• Provide a list of raw material requirements, how they will be sourced, and the main suppliers that will supply the required inputs.

Section 7: Financial Plan

• Describe the financial projections of the company, by including the projected income statement, projected cash flow statement, and the balance sheet projection.

Section 8: Appendices and Exhibits

• Quotes of building and machinery leases
• Proposed office and warehouse plan
• Market research and a summary of the target market
• Credit information of the owners
• List of product and/or services

Related Readings

Thank you for reading CFI’s guide to Business Plans. To keep learning and advancing your career, the following CFI resources will be helpful:

• Corporate Structure
• Three Financial Statements
• Business Model Canvas Examples
• See all management & strategy resources
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How to Write a Business Plan (Plus Examples & Templates)

Have you ever wondered how to write a business plan step by step? Mike Andes, told us: 

This guide will help you write a business plan to impress investors.

Throughout this process, we’ll get information from Mike Andes, who started Augusta Lawn Care Services when he was 12 and turned it into a franchise with over 90 locations. He has gone on to help others learn how to write business plans and start businesses.  He knows a thing or two about writing  business plans!

We’ll start by discussing the definition of a business plan. Then we’ll discuss how to come up with the idea, how to do the market research, and then the important elements in the business plan format. Keep reading to start your journey!

What Is a Business Plan?

A business plan is simply a road map of what you are trying to achieve with your business and how you will go about achieving it. It should cover all elements of your business including: 

• Finding customers
• Plans for developing a team
•  Competition
• Legal structures
• Key milestones you are pursuing

If you aren’t quite ready to create a business plan, consider starting by reading our business startup guide .

Get a Business Idea

Before you can write a business plan, you have to have a business idea. You may see a problem that needs to be solved and have an idea how to solve it, or you might start by evaluating your interests and skills. 

Mike told us, “The three things I suggest asking yourself when thinking about starting a business are:

• What am I good at?
• What would I enjoy doing?
• What can I get paid for?”

If all three of these questions don’t lead to at least one common answer, it will probably be a much harder road to success. Either there is not much market for it, you won’t be good at it, or you won’t enjoy doing it. 

As Mike told us, “There’s enough stress starting and running a business that if you don’t like it or aren’t good at it, it’s hard to succeed.”

If you’d like to hear more about Mike’s approach to starting a business, check out our YouTube video

Conduct Market Analysis

Market analysis is focused on establishing if there is a target market for your products and services, how large the target market is, and identifying the demographics of people or businesses that would be interested in the product or service. The goal here is to establish how much money your business concept can make.

Product and Service Demand

A search engine is your best friend when trying to figure out if there is demand for your products and services. Personally, I love using presearch.org because it lets you directly search on a ton of different platforms including Google, Youtube, Twitter, and more. Check out the screenshot for the full list of search options.

With quick web searches, you can find out how many competitors you have, look through their reviews, and see if there are common complaints about the competitors. Bad reviews are a great place to find opportunities to offer better products or services. 

If there are no similar products or services, you may have stumbled upon something new, or there may just be no demand for it. To find out, go talk to your most honest friend about the idea and see what they think. If they tell you it’s dumb or stare at you vacantly, there’s probably no market for it.

You can also conduct a survey through social media to get public opinion on your idea. Using Facebook Business Manager , you could get a feel for who would be interested in your product or service.

 I ran a quick test of how many people between 18-65  you could reach in the U.S. during a week. It returned an estimated 700-2,000 for the total number of leads, which is enough to do a fairly accurate statistical analysis.

Identify Demographics of Target Market

Depending on what type of business you want to run, your target market will be different. The narrower the demographic, the fewer potential customers you’ll have. If you did a survey, you’ll be able to use that data to help define your target audience. Some considerations you’ll want to consider are:

• Other Interests
• Marital Status
• Do they have kids?

Once you have this information, it can help you narrow down your options for location and help define your marketing further. One resource that Mike recommended using is the Census Bureau’s Quick Facts Map . He told us,  

“It helps you quickly evaluate what the best areas are for your business to be located.”

How to Write a Business Plan

Now that you’ve developed your idea a little and established there is a market for it, you can begin writing a business plan. Getting started is easier with the business plan template we created for you to download. I strongly recommend using it as it is updated to make it easier to create an action plan. 

Each of the following should be a section of your business plan:

• Business Plan Cover Page
• Table of Contents
• Executive Summary
• Company Description
• Description of Products and Services

SWOT Analysis

• Competitor Data
• Competitive Analysis
• Marketing Expenses Strategy 

Pricing Strategy

• Distribution Channel Assessment
• Operational Plan
• Management and Organizational Strategy
• Financial Statements and/or Financial Projections

We’ll look into each of these. Don’t forget to download our free business plan template (mentioned just above) so you can follow along as we go. 

How to Write a Business Plan Step 1. Create a Cover Page

The first thing investors will see is the cover page for your business plan. Make sure it looks professional. A great cover page shows that you think about first impressions.

A good business plan should have the following elements on a cover page:

• Professionally designed logo
• Company name
• Mission or Vision Statement
• Contact Info

Basically, think of a cover page for your business plan like a giant business card. It is meant to capture people’s attention but be quickly processed.

How to Write a Business Plan Step 2. Create a Table of Contents

Most people are busy enough that they don’t have a lot of time. Providing a table of contents makes it easy for them to find the pages of your plan that are meaningful to them.

A table of contents will be immediately after the cover page, but you can include it after the executive summary. Including the table of contents immediately after the executive summary will help investors know what section of your business plan they want to review more thoroughly.

Check out Canva’s article about creating a  table of contents . It has a ton of great information about creating easy access to each section of your business plan. Just remember that you’ll want to use different strategies for digital and hard copy business plans.

How to Write a Business Plan Step 3. Write an Executive Summary

An executive summary is where your business plan should catch the readers interest.  It doesn’t need to be long, but should be quick and easy to read.

Mike told us,

How long should an executive summary bein an informal business plan?

For casual use, an executive summary should be similar to an elevator pitch, no more than 150-160 words, just enough to get them interested and wanting more. Indeed has a great article on elevator pitches .  This can also be used for the content of emails to get readers’ attention.

It consists of three basic parts:

• An introduction to you and your business.
• What your business is about.
• A call to action

Example of an informal executive summary 

One of the best elevator pitches I’ve used is:

So far that pitch has achieved a 100% success rate in getting partnerships for the business.

What should I include in an executive summary for investors?

Investors are going to need a more detailed executive summary if you want to secure financing or sell equity. The executive summary should be a brief overview of your entire business plan and include:

• Introduction of yourself and company.
• An origin story (Recognition of a problem and how you came to solution)
• An introduction to your products or services.
• Your unique value proposition. Make sure to include intellectual property.
• Where you are in the business life cycle
• Request and why you need it.

Successful business plan examples

The owner of Urbanity told us he spent 2 months writing a 75-page business plan and received a $250,000 loan from the bank when he was 23. Make your business plan as detailed as possible when looking for financing. We’ve provided a template to help you prepare the portions of a business plan that banks expect.

Here’s the interview with the owner of Urbanity:

When to write an executive summary?

Even though the summary is near the beginning of a business plan, you should write it after you complete the rest of a business plan. You can’t talk about revenue, profits, and expected expenditures if you haven’t done the market research and created a financial plan.

What mistakes do people make when writing an executive summary?

Business owners commonly go into too much detail about the following items in an executive summary:

• Marketing and sales processes
• Financial statements
• Organizational structure
• Market analysis

These are things that people will want to know later, but they don’t hook the reader. They won’t spark interest in your small business, but they’ll close the deal.

How to Write a Business Plan Step 4. Company Description

Every business plan should include a company description. A great business plan will include the following elements while describing the company:

• Mission statement
• Philosophy and vision
• Company goals

Target market

• Legal structure

Let’s take a look at what each section includes in a good business plan.

Mission Statement

A mission statement is a brief explanation of why you started the company and what the company’s main focus is. It should be no more than one or two sentences. Check out HubSpot’s article 27 Inspiring Mission Statement for a great read on informative and inspiring mission and vision statements. 

Company Philosophy and Vision

The company philosophy is what drives your company. You’ll normally hear them called core values.  These are the building blocks that make your company different. You want to communicate your values to customers, business owners, and investors as often as possible to build a company culture, but make sure to back them up.

What makes your company different?

Each company is different. Your new business should rise above the standard company lines of honesty, integrity, fun, innovation, and community when communicating your business values. The standard answers are corporate jargon and lack authenticity. 

Examples of core values

One of my clients decided to add a core values page to their website. As a tech company they emphasized the values:

•  Prioritize communication.
•  Never stop learning.
•  Be transparent.
•  Start small and grow incrementally.

These values communicate how the owner and the rest of the company operate. They also show a value proposition and competitive advantage because they specifically focus on delivering business value from the start. These values also genuinely show what the company is about and customers recognize the sincerity. Indeed has a great blog about how to identify your core values .

What is a vision statement?

A vision statement communicate the long lasting change a business pursues. The vision helps investors and customers understand what your company is trying to accomplish. The vision statement goes beyond a mission statement to provide something meaningful to the community, customer’s lives, or even the world.

Example vision statements

The Alzheimer’s Association is a great example of a vision statement:

A world without Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementia.

It clearly tells how they want to change the world. A world without Alzheimers might be unachievable, but that means they always have room for improvement.

Business Goals

You have to measure success against goals for a business plan to be meaningful. A business plan helps guide a company similar to how your GPS provides a road map to your favorite travel destination. A goal to make as much money as possible is not inspirational and sounds greedy.

Sure, business owners want to increase their profits and improve customer service, but they need to present an overview of what they consider success. The goals should help everyone prioritize their work.

How far in advance should a business plan?

Business planning should be done at least one year in advance, but many banks and investors prefer three to five year business plans. Longer plans show investors that the management team  understands the market and knows the business is operating in a constantly shifting market. In addition, a plan helps businesses to adjust to changes because they have already considered how to handle them.

Example of great business goals

My all time-favorite long-term company goals are included in Tesla’s Master Plan, Part Deux . These goals were written in 2016 and drive the company’s decisions through 2026. They are the reason that investors are so forgiving when Elon Musk continually fails to meet his quarterly and annual goals.

If the progress aligns with the business plan investors are likely to continue to believe in the company. Just make sure the goals are reasonable or you’ll be discredited (unless you’re Elon Musk).

You did target market research before creating a business plan. Now it’s time to add it to the plan so others understand what your ideal customer looks like. As a new business owner, you may not be considered an expert in your field yet, so document everything. Make sure the references you use are from respectable sources. 

Use information from the specific lender when you are applying for lending. Most lenders provide industry research reports and using their data can strengthen the position of your business plan.

A small business plan should include a section on the external environment. Understanding the industry is crucial because we don’t plan a business in a vacuum. Make sure to research the industry trends, competitors, and forecasts. I personally prefer IBIS World for my business research. Make sure to answer questions like:

• What is the industry outlook long-term and short-term?
• How will your business take advantage of projected industry changes and trends?
• What might happen to your competitors and how will your business successfully compete?

Industry resources

Some helpful resources to help you establish more about your industry are:

• Trade Associations
• Federal Reserve
• Bureau of Labor Statistics

Legal Structure

There are five basic types of legal structures that most people will utilize:

• Sole proprietorships
• Limited Liability Companies (LLC)

Partnerships

Corporations.

• Franchises.

Each business structure has their pros and cons. An LLC is the most common legal structure due to its protection of personal assets and ease of setting up. Make sure to specify how ownership is divided and what roles each owner plays when you have more than one business owner.

You’ll have to decide which structure is best for you, but we’ve gathered information on each to make it easier.

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is the easiest legal structure to set up but doesn’t protect the owner’s personal assets from legal issues. That means if something goes wrong, you could lose both your company and your home.

To start a sole proprietorship, fill out a special tax form called a  Schedule C . Sole proprietors can also join the American Independent Business Alliance .

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

An LLC is the most common business structure used in the United States because an LLC protects the owner’s personal assets. It’s similar to partnerships and corporations, but can be a single-member LLC in most states. An LLC requires a document called an operating agreement.

Each state has different requirements. Here’s a link to find your state’s requirements . Delaware and Nevada are common states to file an LLC because they are really business-friendly. Here’s a blog on the top 10 states to get an LLC.

Partnerships are typically for legal firms. If you choose to use a partnership choose a Limited Liability Partnership. Alternatively, you can just use an LLC.

Corporations are typically for massive organizations. Corporations have taxes on both corporate and income tax so unless you plan on selling stock, you are better off considering an LLC with S-Corp status . Investopedia has good information corporations here .

There are several opportunities to purchase successful franchises. TopFranchise.com has a list of companies in a variety of industries that offer franchise opportunities. This makes it where an entrepreneur can benefit from the reputation of an established business that has already worked out many of the kinks of starting from scratch.

How to Write a Business Plan Step 5. Products and Services

This section of the business plan should focus on what you sell, how you source it, and how you sell it. You should include:

• Unique features that differentiate your business products from competitors
• Intellectual property
• Your supply chain
• Cost and pricing structure 

Questions to answer about your products and services

Mike gave us a list  of the most important questions to answer about your product and services:

• How will you be selling the product? (in person, ecommerce, wholesale, direct to consumer)?
• How do you let them know they need a product?
• How do you communicate the message?
• How will you do transactions?
• How much will you be selling it for?
• How many do you think you’ll sell and why?

Make sure to use the worksheet on our business plan template .

How to Write a Business Plan Step 6. Sales and Marketing Plan

The marketing and sales plan is focused on the strategy to bring awareness to your company and guides how you will get the product to the consumer.  It should contain the following sections:

SWOT Analysis stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Not only do you want to identify them, but you also want to document how the business plans to deal with them.

Business owners need to do a thorough job documenting how their service or product stacks up against the competition.

If proper research isn’t done, investors will be able to tell that the owner hasn’t researched the competition and is less likely to believe that the team can protect its service from threats by the more well-established competition. This is one of the most common parts of a presentation that trips up business owners presenting on Shark Tank .

SWOT Examples

Examples of strengths and weaknesses could be things like the lack of cash flow, intellectual property ownership, high costs of suppliers, and customers’ expectations on shipping times.

Opportunities could be ways to capitalize on your strengths or improve your weaknesses, but may also be gaps in the industry. This includes:

• Adding offerings that fit with your current small business
• Increase sales to current customers
• Reducing costs through bulk ordering
• Finding ways to reduce inventory
•  And other areas you can improve

Threats will normally come from outside of the company but could also be things like losing a key member of the team. Threats normally come from competition, regulations, taxes, and unforeseen events.

The management team should use the SWOT analysis to guide other areas of business planning, but it absolutely has to be done before a business owner starts marketing. 

Include Competitor Data in Your Business Plan

When you plan a business, taking into consideration the strengths and weaknesses of the competition is key to navigating the field. Providing an overview of your competition and where they are headed shows that you are invested in understanding the industry.

For smaller businesses, you’ll want to search both the company and the owners names to see what they are working on. For publicly held corporations, you can find their quarterly and annual reports on the SEC website .

What another business plans to do can impact your business. Make sure to include things that might make it attractive for bigger companies to outsource to a small business.

Marketing Strategy

The marketing and sales part of business plans should be focused on how you are going to make potential customers aware of your business and then sell to them.

If you haven’t already included it, Mike recommends:

“They’ll want to know about Demographics, ages, and wealth of your target market.”

Make sure to include the Total addressable market .  The term refers to the value if you captured 100% of the market.

Advertising Strategy

You’ll explain what formats of advertising you’ll be using. Some possibilities are:

• Online: Facebook and Google are the big names to work with here.
• Print : Print can be used to reach broad groups or targeted markets. Check out this for tips .
• Radio : iHeartMedia is one of the best ways to advertise on the radio
• Cable television : High priced, hard to measure ROI, but here’s an explanation of the process
• Billboards: Attracting customers with billboards can be beneficial in high traffic areas.

You’ll want to define how you’ll be using each including frequency, duration, and cost. If you have the materials already created, including pictures or links to the marketing to show creative assets.

Mike told us “Most businesses are marketing digitally now due to Covid, but that’s not always the right answer.”

Make sure the marketing strategy will help team members or external marketing agencies stay within the brand guidelines .

This section of a business plan should be focused on pricing. There are a ton of pricing strategies that may work for different business plans. Which one will work for you depends on what kind of a business you run.

Some common pricing strategies are:

• Value-based pricing – Commonly used with home buying and selling or other products that are status symbols.
• Skimming pricing – Commonly seen in video game consoles, price starts off high to recoup expenses quickly, then reduces over time.
• Competition-based pricing – Pricing based on competitors’ pricing is commonly seen at gas stations.
• Freemium services –  Commonly used for software, where there is a free plan, then purchase options for more functionality.

HubSpot has a great calculator and blog on pricing strategies.

Beyond explaining what strategy your business plans to use, you should include references for how you came to this pricing strategy and how it will impact your cash flow.

Distribution Plan

This part of a business plan is focused on how the product or service is going to go through the supply chain. These may include multiple divisions or multiple companies. Make sure to include any parts of the workflow that are automated so investors can see where cost savings are expected and when.

Supply Chain Examples

For instance, lawn care companies  would need to cover aspects such as:

• Suppliers for lawn care equipment and tools
• Any chemicals or treatments needed
• Repair parts for sprinkler systems
• Vehicles to transport equipment and employees
• Insurance to protect the company vehicles and people.

Examples of Supply Chains

These are fairly flat supply chains compared to something like a clothing designer where the clothes would go through multiple vendors. A clothing company might have the following supply chain:

• Raw materials
• Shipping of raw materials
• Converting of raw materials to thread
• Shipping thread to produce garments
• Garment producer
• Shipping to company
• Company storage
• Shipping to retail stores

There have been advances such as print on demand that eliminate many of these steps. If you are designing completely custom clothing, all of this would need to be planned to keep from having business disruptions.

The main thing to include in the business plan is the list of suppliers, the path the supply chain follows, the time from order to the customer’s home, and the costs associated with each step of the process.

According to BizPlanReview , a business plan without this information is likely to get rejected because they have failed to research the key elements necessary to make sales to the customer.

How to Write a Business Plan Step 7. Company Organization and Operational Plan

This part of the business plan is focused on how the business model will function while serving customers.  The business plan should provide an overview of  how the team will manage the following aspects:

Quality Control

• Legal environment

Let’s look at each for some insight.

Production has already been discussed in previous sections so I won’t go into it much. When writing a business plan for investors, try to avoid repetition as it creates a more simple business plan.

If the organizational plan will be used by the team as an overview of how to perform the best services for the customer, then redundancy makes more sense as it communicates what is important to the business.

Quality control policies help to keep the team focused on how to verify that the company adheres to the business plan and meets or exceeds customer expectations.

Quality control can be anything from a standard that says “all labels on shirts can be no more than 1/16″ off center” to a defined checklist of steps that should be performed and filled out for every customer.

There are a variety of organizations that help define quality control including:

• International Organization for Standardization – Quality standards for energy, technology, food, production environments, and cybersecurity
• AICPA – Standard defined for accounting.
• The Joint Commission – Healthcare
• ASHRAE – HVAC best practices

You can find lists of the organizations that contribute most to the government regulation of industries on Open Secrets . Research what the leaders in your field are doing. Follow their example and implement it in your quality control plan.

For location, you should use information from the market research to establish where the location will be. Make sure to include the following in the location documentation.

• The size of your location
• The type of building (retail, industrial, commercial, etc.)
• Zoning restrictions – Urban Wire has a good map on how zoning works in each state
• Accessibility – Does it meet ADA requirements?
• Costs including rent, maintenance, utilities, insurance and any buildout or remodeling costs
• Utilities – b.e.f. has a good energy calculator .

Legal Environment

The legal requirement section is focused on defining how to meet the legal requirements for your industry. A good business plan should include all of the following:

• Any licenses and/or permits that are needed and whether you’ve obtained them
• Any trademarks, copyrights, or patents that you have or are in the process of applying for
• The insurance coverage your business requires and how much it costs
• Any environmental, health, or workplace regulations affecting your business
• Any special regulations affecting your industry
• Bonding requirements, if applicable

Your local SBA office can help you establish requirements in your area. I strongly recommend using them. They are a great resource.

Your business plan should include a plan for company organization and hiring. While you may be the only person with the company right now, down the road you’ll need more people. Make sure to consider and document the answers to the following questions:

• What is the current leadership structure and what will it look like in the future?
• What types of employees will you have? Are there any licensing or educational requirements?
• How many employees will you need?
• Will you ever hire freelancers or independent contractors?
• What is each position’s job description?
• What is the pay structure (hourly, salaried, base plus commission, etc.)?
• How do you plan to find qualified employees and contractors?

One of the most crucial parts of a business plan is the organizational chart. This simply shows the positions the company will need, who is in charge of them and the relationship of each of them. It will look similar to this:

Our small business plan template has a much more in-depth organizational chart you can edit to include when you include the organizational chart in your business plan.

How to Write a Business Plan Step 8. Financial Statements 

No business plan is complete without financial statements or financial projections. The business plan format will be different based on whether you are writing a business plan to expand a business or a startup business plan. Let’s dig deeper into each.

Provide All Financial Income from an Existing Business

An existing business should use their past financial documents including the income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement to find trends to estimate the next 3-5 years.

You can create easy trendlines in excel to predict future revenue, profit and loss, cash flow, and other changes in year-over-year performance. This will show your expected performance assuming business continues as normal.

If you are seeking an investment, then the business is probably not going to continue as normal. Depending on the financial plan and the purpose of getting financing, adjustments may be needed to the following:

• Higher Revenue if expanding business
• Lower Cost of Goods Sold if purchasing inventory with bulk discounts
• Adding interest if utilizing financing (not equity deal)
• Changes in expenses
• Addition of financing information to the cash flow statement
• Changes in Earnings per Share on the balance sheet

Financial modeling is a challenging subject, but there are plenty of low-cost courses on the subject. If you need help planning your business financial documentation take some time to watch some of them.

Make it a point to document how you calculated all the changes to the income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement in your business plan so that key team members or investors can verify your research.

Financial Projections For A Startup Business Plan

Unlike an existing business, a startup doesn’t have previous success to model its future performance. In this scenario, you need to focus on how to make a business plan realistic through the use of industry research and averages.

Mike gave the following advice in his interview:

Financial Forecasting Mistakes

One of the things a lot of inexperienced people use is the argument, “If I get one percent of the market, it is worth $100 million.” If you use this, investors are likely to file the document under bad business plan examples.

Let’s use custom t-shirts as an example.

Credence Research estimated in 2018 there were 11,334,800,000 custom t-shirts sold for a total of $206.12 Billion, with a 6% compound annual growth rate.

With that data,  you can calculate that the industry will grow to $270 Billion in 2023 and that the average shirt sold creates $18.18 in revenue.

Combine that with an IBIS World estimate of 11,094 custom screen printers and that means even if you become an average seller, you’ll get .009% of the market.

Here’s a table for easier viewing of that information.

The point here is to make sure your business proposal examples make sense.

You’ll need to know industry averages such as cost of customer acquisition, revenue per customer, the average cost of goods sold, and admin costs to be able to create accurate estimates.

Our simple business plan templates walk you through most of these processes. If you follow them you’ll have a good idea of how to write a business proposal.

How to Write a Business Plan Step 9. Business Plan Example of Funding Requests

What is a business plan without a plan on how to obtain funding?

The Small Business Administration has an example for a pizza restaurant that theoretically needed nearly $20k to make it through their first month.

In our video, How to Start a $500K/Year T-Shirt Business (Pt. 1 ), Sanford Booth told us he needed about $200,000 to start his franchise and broke even after 4 months.

Freshbooks estimates it takes on average 2-3 years for a business to be profitable, which means the fictitious pizza company from the SBA could need up to $330k to make it through that time and still pay their bills for their home and pizza shop.

Not every business needs that much to start, but realistically it’s a good idea to assume that you need a fairly large cushion.

Ways to get funding for a small business

There are a variety of ways to cover this. the most common are:

• Bootstrapping – Using your savings without external funding.
• Taking out debt – loans, credit cards
• Equity, Seed Funding – Ownership of a percentage of the company in exchange for current funds
• Crowdsourcing – Promising a good for funding to create the product

Keep reading for more tips on how to write a business plan.

How funding will be used

When asking for business financing make sure to include:

• How much to get started?
• What is the minimum viable product and how soon can you make money?
• How will the money be spent?

Mike emphasized two aspects that should be included in every plan, 

How to Write a Business Plan Resources

Here are some links to a business plan sample and business plan outline. 

• Sample plan

It’s also helpful to follow some of the leading influencers in the business plan writing community. Here’s a list:

• Wise Plans –  Shares a lot of information on starting businesses and is a business plan writing company.
• Optimus Business Plans –  Another business plan writing company.
• Venture Capital – A venture capital thread that can help give you ideas.

How to Write a Business Plan: What’s Next?

We hope this guide about how to write a simple business plan step by step has been helpful. We’ve covered:

• The definition of a business plan
• Coming up with a business idea
• Performing market research
• The critical components of a business plan
• An example business plan

In addition, we provided you with a simple business plan template to assist you in the process of writing your startup business plan. The startup business plan template also includes a business model template that will be the key to your success.

Don’t forget to check out the rest of our business hub .

Have you written a business plan before? How did it impact your ability to achieve your goals?

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How To Write A Business Plan (2024 Guide)

Updated: Apr 17, 2024, 11:59am

Table of Contents

Brainstorm an executive summary, create a company description, brainstorm your business goals, describe your services or products, conduct market research, create financial plans, bottom line, frequently asked questions.

Every business starts with a vision, which is distilled and communicated through a business plan. In addition to your high-level hopes and dreams, a strong business plan outlines short-term and long-term goals, budget and whatever else you might need to get started. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to write a business plan that you can stick to and help guide your operations as you get started.

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Drafting the Summary

An executive summary is an extremely important first step in your business. You have to be able to put the basic facts of your business in an elevator pitch-style sentence to grab investors’ attention and keep their interest. This should communicate your business’s name, what the products or services you’re selling are and what marketplace you’re entering.

Ask for Help

When drafting the executive summary, you should have a few different options. Enlist a few thought partners to review your executive summary possibilities to determine which one is best.

After you have the executive summary in place, you can work on the company description, which contains more specific information. In the description, you’ll need to include your business’s registered name , your business address and any key employees involved in the business. 

The business description should also include the structure of your business, such as sole proprietorship , limited liability company (LLC) , partnership or corporation. This is the time to specify how much of an ownership stake everyone has in the company. Finally, include a section that outlines the history of the company and how it has evolved over time.

Wherever you are on the business journey, you return to your goals and assess where you are in meeting your in-progress targets and setting new goals to work toward.

Numbers-based Goals

Goals can cover a variety of sections of your business. Financial and profit goals are a given for when you’re establishing your business, but there are other goals to take into account as well with regard to brand awareness and growth. For example, you might want to hit a certain number of followers across social channels or raise your engagement rates.

Another goal could be to attract new investors or find grants if you’re a nonprofit business. If you’re looking to grow, you’ll want to set revenue targets to make that happen as well.

Intangible Goals

Goals unrelated to traceable numbers are important as well. These can include seeing your business’s advertisement reach the general public or receiving a terrific client review. These goals are important for the direction you take your business and the direction you want it to go in the future.

The business plan should have a section that explains the services or products that you’re offering. This is the part where you can also describe how they fit in the current market or are providing something necessary or entirely new. If you have any patents or trademarks, this is where you can include those too.

If you have any visual aids, they should be included here as well. This would also be a good place to include pricing strategy and explain your materials.

This is the part of the business plan where you can explain your expertise and different approach in greater depth. Show how what you’re offering is vital to the market and fills an important gap.

You can also situate your business in your industry and compare it to other ones and how you have a competitive advantage in the marketplace.

Other than financial goals, you want to have a budget and set your planned weekly, monthly and annual spending. There are several different costs to consider, such as operational costs.

Business Operations Costs

Rent for your business is the first big cost to factor into your budget. If your business is remote, the cost that replaces rent will be the software that maintains your virtual operations.

Marketing and sales costs should be next on your list. Devoting money to making sure people know about your business is as important as making sure it functions.

Other Costs

Although you can’t anticipate disasters, there are likely to be unanticipated costs that come up at some point in your business’s existence. It’s important to factor these possible costs into your financial plans so you’re not caught totally unaware.

Business plans are important for businesses of all sizes so that you can define where your business is and where you want it to go. Growing your business requires a vision, and giving yourself a roadmap in the form of a business plan will set you up for success.

How do I write a simple business plan?

When you’re working on a business plan, make sure you have as much information as possible so that you can simplify it to the most relevant information. A simple business plan still needs all of the parts included in this article, but you can be very clear and direct.

What are some common mistakes in a business plan?

The most common mistakes in a business plan are common writing issues like grammar errors or misspellings. It’s important to be clear in your sentence structure and proofread your business plan before sending it to any investors or partners.

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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Ultimate Guide: Table Of Contents For A Business Plan

Staggeringly, 8 out of 10 businesses fail within the first 18 months. This often happens because of poor planning and lack of clarity. Creating a structured table of contents for your business plan can be a game-changer in navigating this challenge.

The table of contents serves as a roadmap, guiding readers through the essential components of your business vision. Historically, a well-organized plan has helped entrepreneurs secure funding and make informed decisions. A clear structure can mean the difference between success and failure, making it an indispensable tool.

Ultimate Guide: Table of Contents for a Business Plan

A table of contents in a business plan acts like a roadmap. It directs readers to key sections, making the plan easy to navigate. Without it, finding specific information can be a hassle. This guide helps you organize your content efficiently. An organized business plan increases your chances of impressing investors.

When creating your table of contents, it’s essential to think about your audience. Investors want to see a clear, logical structure. This means including sections like executive summary, company description, and financial projections. Here is a typical list of sections:

• Executive Summary
• Company Description
• Market Analysis
• Organization and Management
• Service or Product Line
• Marketing and Sales
• Funding Request
• Financial Projections

Each section has a purpose. The executive summary provides a snapshot of your business. The market analysis demonstrates your understanding of the industry. By organizing these sections well, you make your business plan clear and persuasive.

Remember, the table of contents is the first thing people see. It sets the tone for the entire document. A well-structured table of contents shows that you are organized and pay attention to detail. This can make a big difference when you’re seeking funding or partnerships.

The Importance of a Business Plan Table of Contents

A table of contents in a business plan doesn’t just make it look professional; it serves as a crucial navigation tool. Readers can find specific sections quickly without having to skim through the entire document. This saves time and reduces frustration. When investors see a well-structured table, they know the business owner pays attention to detail. It leaves a positive first impression.

A comprehensive table of contents sets the stage for what’s to come. It outlines the key sections of your business plan. These usually include the executive summary, market analysis, and financial projections. By summarizing the main sections, it gives readers an idea of what to expect. This helps them focus on areas that matter most to them.

Including a table of contents also shows that you are organized. Organization is a trait investors and partners highly value. They want to know you have planned your business meticulously. A good table of contents reflects your ability to structure and prioritize. It shows that you understand the flow of your own business plan.

Another benefit is that it acts as a checklist. Before you finalize your business plan, you can use it to ensure all important sections are covered. This reduces the chances of missing out on critical information. A complete and well-organized table of contents is a small step that can make a big impact on the success of your business plan.

Recommended Structure for your Business Plan

Having a proper structure for your business plan makes it easier to read and understand. It typically starts with an executive summary, which provides a brief overview of your plan. Then comes the company description, where you explain your business goals and what makes your company unique. Following that, the market analysis section dives into industry trends and target audience insights. These sections set the stage for more detailed parts of your plan.

After the market analysis, the organization and management section outlines your company’s hierarchy. This includes details about the team and their roles. The service or product line section describes what you are selling. Whether it’s a product or a service, this part explains its benefits, lifecycle, and any research and development efforts. This helps readers understand what you offer and how it stands out.

Next is the marketing and sales strategy, essential for showing how you plan to attract and retain customers. This includes pricing, advertising, and sales tactics. Following this, the funding request section details the financial resources you need, how you will use them, and your future financial plans. Investors pay close attention to this part, so be clear and concise.

Finally, the financial projections section provides a financial roadmap for the next three to five years. This includes income statements, cash flow projections, and balance sheets. The appendix, which is optional, can include resumes, product pictures, or any additional information. A well-structured business plan makes it easier for investors to follow and more likely to invest.

Components of a Business Plan: Deep Dive

The executive summary is the first critical component of any business plan. It provides a snapshot of your entire plan, including your business objectives and key financial points. This section should be engaging and concise to grab the reader’s attention. An effective executive summary can determine whether someone reads the rest of your plan. It acts as a hook, drawing people into the details.

Next is the company description, where you delve into the specifics of your business. This section outlines your mission, vision, and the nature of your organization. It also explains what sets your business apart from competitors. Providing background information helps readers understand the foundation of your company. This foundational knowledge is crucial for investors.

The market analysis section is all about understanding your industry. Here, you will include data and research on market trends, target audiences, and competitive landscapes. Showing a deep understanding of the market can convince stakeholders that you are well-prepared. Include tables or charts if needed to make the data easily digestible. An informed market analysis reveals your strategic thinking.

The organization and management section details your business’s structure. It introduces your team and their roles within the company. Use this part to highlight the skills and experiences that make your team strong. A well-structured management team can instill confidence in investors. Organizational charts or bios can add depth to this section.

In the service or product line section, you describe what you are selling. This part should explain the benefits of your offerings and how they meet market needs. Whether it’s a product or service, be clear about its life cycle and development status. Highlighting any unique selling points can set you apart from competitors. This section is essential to showcase your innovation.

Lastly, the financial projections section provides a future outlook for your business. You should include income statements, cash flow statements, and balance sheets. These projections offer insights into your financial health and future profitability. Clear and accurate financial projections can build trust with investors. This section ties everything together with quantitative support.

Optimizing your Business Plan for Your Target Audience

Knowing your audience is key when writing a business plan. Different stakeholders look for different things. For example, investors are interested in your financial projections and market strategy. Meanwhile, potential partners may focus on your team and management structure. Tailoring your content to meet these needs can make your business plan more effective.

Speak the language of your audience to keep them engaged. If your audience consists of financial experts, include detailed charts and figures. If they are not as familiar with the business lingo, simplify complex terms and explain them. This helps ensure that everyone can understand your plan, no matter their background. Clear communication is crucial.

Segment your document to highlight key areas of interest. Use headings, subheadings, and bullet points to make it easier to read. For instance, you can create sections like:

• Management Team

This structured format allows readers to skip to the parts they find most relevant. It makes your plan more reader-friendly.

Consider the tone and style of your content. Formal language may be appropriate for some audiences, while a more conversational tone might work better for others. Also, use visuals like graphs, tables, and infographics to break up text and present data clearly. This aids in making complex information accessible.

Finally, always proofread and get feedback. A polished business plan free of errors shows professionalism. Feedback from others can provide new perspectives and points of improvement. These steps will help you create a business plan that resonates with your target audience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid when Drafting a Business Plan Table of Contents

One frequent mistake is making the table of contents too vague. Unclear section titles can confuse readers and make it hard to find specific information. Titles should be precise and descriptive. This helps readers understand exactly what each section covers. Being specific and clear makes navigation easier.

Another common error is leaving out key sections. A complete business plan should include parts like an executive summary, market analysis, and financial projections. Skipping these can make your business plan seem incomplete. Always double-check to ensure you’ve included all essential sections. Missing important information can weaken your plan.

Inconsistency in formatting is also a problem. Different fonts, sizes, and styles can make the table of contents look unprofessional. Keeping a consistent layout throughout your document is crucial. Consistent formatting enhances readability and demonstrates attention to detail. This can make a significant difference.

Failing to update the table of contents as the plan evolves is another common oversight. As you add or remove sections, ensure your table of contents reflects these changes. An outdated table of contents can lead to confusion. Regularly updating it keeps everything aligned and accurate. This habit ensures your business plan stays current and reliable.

Finally, neglecting to proofread can lead to errors. Typos and mistakes in the table of contents can set a negative tone for the rest of the document. Taking the time to review and correct errors shows professionalism. A polished and error-free table of contents builds trust with your readers. Attention to detail is always appreciated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Understanding the essentials of a business plan’s table of contents can significantly enhance its effectiveness. Below are some common questions and detailed answers to help you craft a comprehensive and impactful table of contents for your business plan.

1. What is the purpose of a table of contents in a business plan?

A table of contents serves as a roadmap for your business plan. It allows readers to navigate through sections easily and find specific information quickly. This feature is especially useful for investors who may be looking to review particular aspects such as financial projections or market analysis. Therefore, it helps make the document more user-friendly.

The table of contents also sets a professional tone right from the start. It shows that you have meticulously organized your thoughts and data. By having an accessible structure, you demonstrate attention to detail, making it easier for readers to follow along. This can leave a positive first impression and can influence stakeholders’ perceptions.

2. How detailed should my table of contents be?

Your table of contents should be detailed enough to guide readers but not overcrowded with sub-sections. Typically, you’ll want major headings like Executive Summary, Market Analysis, and Financial Projections clearly outlined. If certain sections require further breakdowns, include appropriate sub-headings under those main categories.

This balance ensures that your document remains navigable without overwhelming your reader with too much information upfront. Keep in mind that simplicity often aids clarity. The goal is to enable the audience to get an overall sense of the document while knowing exactly where they can find crucial details without hassle.

3. What are some tools I can use to create a table of contents?

Most word processing software like Microsoft Word and Google Docs offer built-in features for generating tables of contents automatically. These tools allow you to mark section headings which then populate your content list dynamically as you write or edit your document. Utilizing these features can save you time and ensure consistency throughout your plan.

You can also use specialized business planning software which often includes templates with pre-designed tables of contents tailored specifically for business plans. Such tools usually offer drag-and-drop functionality, making it even easier to organize sections properly. Leveraging these resources helps ensure professional results with minimal effort.

4. How often should I update my business plan’s table of contents?

Your business plan’s table should be updated each time significant changes are made within the content itself. For instance, if new sections are added or reordered based on evolving strategies or feedback, ensure those updates reflect in the table promptly so it stays accurate.

An outdated TOC creates confusion among readers trying to locate revised parts within existing pages provided earlier copies used before amendments happened — ultimately leading them offtrack from point info matters most referred now ensuring lost opportunities arise correcting impression both organization thoroughwentness displayed initially intended!

5 Should Appendices Be Included Within Business Plan Besides Core Sections Covered Mainly Listed Properly Aligned Orderly Manner ?

Yes appendices additionals data visuals charts references documents support give context lend credibility ideas suggestions scenarios depicted basis recommendations proposed inherently linked described articulated relevant thoroughness guarantees verifiable evidence claiming indeed authored comprehensive assertive measure good practice !

Final Thoughts

Creating a well-structured table of contents for your business plan is essential for clarity and professionalism. It serves as a navigation tool, guiding readers through each crucial section. Paying attention to detail in this aspect can significantly impact the perception of your entire plan.

Remember, a detailed, organized plan impresses investors and stakeholders. It shows that you are prepared and serious about your business. Make sure each section is well-thought-out, informative, and easy to locate. This can set the stage for your business’s success.

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Business Plan Table of Contents

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on mastering the art of creating an effective Business Plan Table of Contents. As an entrepreneur or business owner, you understand the importance of having a well-structured and organized roadmap for your business. A Business Plan serves as the foundation for your venture, outlining your goals, strategies, and financial projections. However, the Table of Contents often gets overlooked, even though it plays a crucial role in guiding readers through your plan.

In this blog post, we will explore the definition and importance of a Business Plan, as well as the purpose of a Table of Contents within it. We will provide an overview of the key sections of a Business Plan, such as the Executive Summary, Company Description, Market Analysis, Marketing and Sales Strategy, and more.

Next, we will delve into the components of a Business Plan Table of Contents, including the cover page, table of contents itself, executive summary, and various sections of the plan. We will also discuss the role of appendices and supporting documents in providing additional credibility to your plan.

To help you create an effective Table of Contents, we will share valuable tips on organizing the sections in a logical and cohesive manner, as well as formatting and presentation techniques for clear headings and subheadings. We will also provide guidance on updating the Table of Contents to reflect any changes made to the plan’s content.

By the end of this guide, you will understand the importance of a well-structured Table of Contents and its impact on the overall effectiveness of your Business Plan. You will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to create a comprehensive and reader-friendly roadmap for your business.

So, let’s dive in and discover how to master the art of Business Plan Table of Contents and create an effective roadmap for your entrepreneurial journey!

Effective Communication and Order Management

Effective communication and efficient order management are vital components of a successful business plan. In this section, we will explore the importance of establishing clear lines of communication within your organization and implementing effective strategies for managing orders.

Clear and concise communication is essential for ensuring that everyone within your organization is on the same page. It allows for seamless collaboration, minimizes misunderstandings, and promotes a cohesive working environment. Whether it’s communicating with employees, stakeholders, or customers, effective communication lays the foundation for a well-functioning business.

Within your business plan, you should outline your communication strategies, including the channels you will use to communicate with different stakeholders. This may include regular team meetings, email updates, project management tools, or even a dedicated communication platform. By clearly defining these channels, you create a roadmap for efficient communication that aligns with your business goals.

Additionally, effective order management is crucial for businesses that sell products or provide services. Managing orders efficiently ensures timely delivery, customer satisfaction, and streamlined operations. Your business plan should outline the processes and systems you will implement to manage orders effectively.

Consider including information on order tracking systems, inventory management procedures, and fulfillment processes. Detail how orders will be received, processed, and fulfilled, including any technologies or software you will utilize to streamline these processes. By clearly outlining your order management strategies, you demonstrate to potential investors or lenders that you have a solid plan in place to handle customer orders and deliver exceptional service.

Moreover, it is important to address any potential challenges or risks that may arise in the realm of communication and order management. This demonstrates your ability to proactively identify and mitigate potential issues. For example, you may discuss how you will handle customer complaints, resolve order discrepancies, or address any supply chain disruptions. By addressing these challenges upfront, you showcase your preparedness and commitment to providing a seamless customer experience.

In conclusion, effective communication and order management are integral components of a well-rounded business plan. By devoting a section to these critical areas, you demonstrate your commitment to clear communication within your organization and efficient handling of customer orders. By outlining your strategies, processes, and potential challenges, you build confidence in your ability to execute your business plan successfully. So, let’s move forward and explore the next section of our comprehensive guide on Business Plan Table of Contents.

Executive Summary

The Executive Summary is a critical section of the Business Plan Table of Contents as it serves as an overview of the entire plan. It is typically the first section that potential investors, lenders, or stakeholders will read, making it essential to capture their attention and provide a concise summary of your business concept.

In this section, you need to provide a high-level summary of your business idea, highlighting the key elements of your plan. While it appears at the beginning of the document, it is often recommended to write the Executive Summary last, as it requires a comprehensive understanding of the entire business plan.

To create an impactful Executive Summary, focus on the most important aspects of your business. Start by introducing your company and its mission, vision, and values. This provides a glimpse into the overarching goals and aspirations that drive your business.

Next, highlight the unique selling points of your products or services. What sets your offerings apart from competitors? Clearly articulate the value that your business brings to the market and how it addresses customer needs or pain points.

Include a brief overview of your target market and the potential for growth. Demonstrate your understanding of the industry landscape, including market trends, customer demographics, and competitive analysis. This shows that you have conducted thorough research and have a solid grasp of your market’s dynamics.

Financial projections are another crucial element to include in the Executive Summary. Provide a snapshot of your expected revenue, profit margins, and growth projections. This gives potential investors a glimpse into the financial viability of your business and showcases your ability to generate returns.

Lastly, conclude the Executive Summary with a strong closing statement that reinforces the potential of your business and highlights your competitive advantage. Use compelling language to leave a lasting impression on the reader and pique their interest to explore the rest of your business plan.

Remember, brevity is key in the Executive Summary. Aim to keep it concise, usually within one to two pages. While it should provide an overview of your business plan, it should also entice the reader to delve deeper into the document for more detailed information.

In conclusion, the Executive Summary is a vital section of the Business Plan Table of Contents. It effectively summarizes your business concept, unique selling points, target market, financial projections, and competitive advantage. By crafting a compelling and concise Executive Summary, you can capture the attention of potential investors and stakeholders, encouraging them to further explore your business plan. Now let’s move on to the next section of our comprehensive guide.

Company Description

The Company Description section of a Business Plan provides a comprehensive overview of your organization. It serves as an introduction to your company, highlighting its background, mission, vision, and key details that make it unique.

Start by providing a brief history of your company, including its founding date and the story behind its establishment. Discuss the inspiration or motivation that led to the creation of your business. This narrative can help create an emotional connection with readers and showcase the passion and dedication behind your venture.

Next, define the mission and vision statements of your company. The mission statement should encapsulate the purpose of your business and the value it aims to deliver to customers. It should reflect your core principles and goals. The vision statement, on the other hand, outlines your long-term aspirations and how you envision your company’s future success.

In this section, it is also important to highlight the unique aspects of your company. What sets you apart from competitors? This can include factors such as innovative technology, exceptional customer service, sustainable practices, or a proprietary product. Emphasize your competitive advantage and explain why customers should choose your company over others in the market.

Additionally, provide details on the legal structure and ownership of your organization. Specify whether you are a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. Include information on any key shareholders or stakeholders who play a significant role in the company’s operations.

Furthermore, if your company has achieved any significant milestones or accomplishments, such as awards, patents, or partnerships, highlight them in this section. This helps to build credibility and showcases your track record of success.

Lastly, consider including a section on your company culture and values. This can include information on your approach to employee engagement, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and any philanthropic efforts your company supports. Demonstrating a strong company culture can attract top talent and foster a positive working environment.

In conclusion, the Company Description section provides an overview of your organization, its history, mission, vision, unique selling points, legal structure, and ownership. It sets the stage for the rest of your business plan, giving readers a clear understanding of your company’s identity and what makes it special. Now, let’s explore the next section of our comprehensive guide on Business Plan Table of Contents.

Products and Services

The Products and Services section of your Business Plan Table of Contents is where you provide a comprehensive description of the offerings your company provides to customers. This section plays a crucial role in demonstrating the value and uniqueness of your products or services.

Begin by providing a detailed description of each product or service your company offers. Explain how they meet the needs and solve the pain points of your target market. Include information on the features, functionality, and benefits of each offering. Use clear and concise language to ensure that readers fully understand what sets your products or services apart from the competition.

In addition to describing your products or services, it is important to highlight their unique selling points (USPs). These are the factors that differentiate your offerings from similar ones in the market. USPs can include aspects such as superior quality, affordability, customization options, or innovative features. Clearly articulate why customers should choose your products or services over those offered by competitors.

Furthermore, discuss any intellectual property or proprietary technology associated with your offerings. If you have patents, copyrights, or trademarks, highlight them in this section. Intellectual property protection can provide a competitive advantage and add value to your products or services.

Another important aspect to consider is the lifecycle of your products or services. Discuss any plans for future enhancements, upgrades, or new releases. This demonstrates your commitment to continuous improvement and staying ahead of market trends.

To further strengthen your business plan, consider including case studies or testimonials from satisfied customers. These real-life examples can provide concrete evidence of the value and benefits your products or services deliver. They can also help establish credibility and build trust with potential investors or lenders.

Lastly, discuss your pricing strategy for your products or services. Explain the rationale behind your pricing model, including factors such as production costs, competitive analysis, and perceived value. It is important to strike a balance between affordability for customers and profitability for your business.

In conclusion, the Products and Services section of your Business Plan Table of Contents provides a detailed overview of the offerings your company provides. By clearly describing your products or services, highlighting their unique selling points, and discussing future plans, you can demonstrate the value and potential of your offerings. Now, let’s move on to the next section of our comprehensive guide on Business Plan Table of Contents.

Market Analysis

The Market Analysis section of your Business Plan Table of Contents is a critical component that provides an in-depth understanding of your target market, industry trends, and competitive landscape. This section demonstrates your knowledge of the market dynamics and your ability to identify opportunities for success.

Begin by clearly defining your target market. Identify the specific demographics, characteristics, and behavior patterns of your ideal customers. This includes factors such as age, gender, location, income level, and interests. By clearly defining your target market, you can tailor your marketing and sales strategies to effectively reach and engage your potential customers.

Next, conduct a comprehensive analysis of the market size and potential growth. Utilize market research data and industry reports to understand the current market trends, demand patterns, and growth projections. This information helps you assess the market’s attractiveness and potential for your products or services.

Additionally, analyze the competition in your market. Identify your direct and indirect competitors, their strengths and weaknesses, and their market share. This analysis allows you to understand the competitive landscape and identify strategies to differentiate yourself from competitors. Highlight your competitive advantage and how it positions you for success in the market.

Consider including a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) in this section. This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of your company’s internal strengths and weaknesses, as well as external opportunities and threats. It helps you identify areas where you can leverage your strengths, address weaknesses, capitalize on opportunities, and mitigate potential threats.

Furthermore, discuss any regulatory or legal factors that may impact your business. This can include industry-specific regulations, licensing requirements, or environmental considerations. Understanding and addressing these factors demonstrates your commitment to compliance and responsible business practices.

To further enhance your market analysis, consider conducting primary research such as surveys, focus groups, or interviews with potential customers. This can provide valuable insights into their needs, preferences, and pain points, allowing you to refine your products or services to better meet their expectations.

In conclusion, the Market Analysis section of your Business Plan Table of Contents provides a comprehensive understanding of your target market, industry trends, and competitive landscape. By conducting a thorough analysis, you can identify opportunities, assess market potential, and develop effective strategies to differentiate yourself from competitors. Now, let’s move on to the next section of our comprehensive guide on Business Plan Table of Contents.

Marketing and Sales Strategy

The Marketing and Sales Strategy section of your Business Plan Table of Contents outlines your approach to promoting and selling your products or services. This section demonstrates your understanding of your target market, your strategies for reaching them, and your plans for generating revenue.

Begin by clearly defining your marketing objectives. What are the specific goals you aim to achieve through your marketing efforts? This can include objectives such as increasing brand awareness, expanding market share, driving website traffic, or generating leads. By setting clear objectives, you can align your marketing strategies and tactics accordingly.

Next, outline your marketing strategies. How do you plan to reach and engage your target market? This can include a mix of online and offline marketing channels such as social media, content marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), email marketing, advertising, events, and public relations. Discuss the rationale behind your chosen strategies and how they align with your target market’s preferences and behavior.

In addition to marketing strategies, outline your pricing and distribution plans. Discuss your pricing strategy and how it aligns with your target market’s willingness to pay, competitive pricing, and profitability goals. Detail your distribution channels, whether it’s through direct sales, e-commerce platforms, retail partnerships, or wholesalers. Explain how your chosen distribution channels will allow you to reach your target market effectively.

Consider including a section on your sales forecasts and projections. This can include expected sales volumes, revenue targets, and growth projections over a specific timeframe. Use market research, historical data, and industry benchmarks to inform your sales projections. This demonstrates your ability to forecast and anticipate revenue streams.

Furthermore, discuss your customer relationship management (CRM) strategies. How do you plan to build and maintain relationships with your customers? This can include customer service policies, loyalty programs, feedback mechanisms, or personalized communication strategies. Emphasize the importance of customer satisfaction and retention in driving long-term success.

Lastly, it is important to monitor and measure the effectiveness of your marketing and sales efforts. Discuss the key performance indicators (KPIs) you will track to evaluate the success of your strategies. This can include metrics such as website traffic, conversion rates, customer acquisition costs, customer lifetime value, or return on investment (ROI). By regularly analyzing and adjusting your strategies based on data-driven insights, you can optimize your marketing and sales efforts for maximum impact.

In conclusion, the Marketing and Sales Strategy section of your Business Plan Table of Contents outlines your approach to promoting and selling your offerings. By defining your marketing objectives, strategies, pricing and distribution plans, sales forecasts, and CRM strategies, you demonstrate a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to reaching your target market and generating revenue. Now, let’s move on to the next section of our comprehensive guide on Business Plan Table of Contents.

Organizational Structure and Management

The Organizational Structure and Management section of your Business Plan Table of Contents provides an overview of the key personnel and the structure of your organization. This section demonstrates your ability to effectively manage and lead your team, ensuring that all roles and responsibilities are clearly defined.

Start by introducing the key personnel in your organization. Provide brief profiles and backgrounds of the founders, executives, and other key team members. Highlight their expertise, skills, and experience that make them well-suited for their respective roles. This helps build credibility and confidence in your team’s ability to execute the business plan.

Next, outline the organizational structure of your company. Discuss the hierarchy and reporting lines within your organization. This includes detailing the different departments or functional areas, such as operations, marketing, finance, and human resources. Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each team member to ensure clarity and accountability.

Consider including an organizational chart to visually represent the structure of your company. This visual representation helps readers understand the reporting relationships and the overall flow of information within your organization.

Furthermore, discuss your management style and approach. How do you plan to lead and motivate your team? Highlight any leadership philosophies, values, or principles that guide your management practices. Emphasize your commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive work culture that values collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning.

In addition to your internal team, discuss any external advisors, consultants, or board members who provide guidance and expertise to your organization. Highlight their qualifications and the specific areas in which they contribute to your business’s growth and success.

Lastly, briefly touch upon your succession planning strategies. Outline your plans for developing and grooming future leaders within your organization. This demonstrates your long-term vision and commitment to building a sustainable and resilient organization.

In conclusion, the Organizational Structure and Management section of your Business Plan Table of Contents provides an overview of the key personnel and the structure of your organization. By introducing your team, outlining the organizational structure, discussing your management style, and addressing succession planning, you demonstrate your ability to effectively manage and lead your organization. Now, let’s move on to the next section of our comprehensive guide on Business Plan Table of Contents.

Operations and Production

The Operations and Production section of your Business Plan Table of Contents outlines the practical aspects of running your business, including location, facilities, production processes, and capacities. This section demonstrates your ability to effectively manage and execute the day-to-day operations of your company.

Start by discussing the location and facilities of your business. Describe the physical space where your operations will be conducted, whether it’s a commercial space, office building, or manufacturing facility. Highlight any unique features or advantages of your chosen location, such as proximity to suppliers, target market, or transportation infrastructure.

Next, provide an overview of your production processes and capacities. Detail the step-by-step processes involved in creating your products or delivering your services. Discuss any equipment, technology, or machinery that you will utilize in your production processes. Include information on the capacity of your production facilities and how it aligns with your projected demand.

Consider discussing any key partnerships or suppliers that play a crucial role in your operations. Highlight the relationships you have established and how they contribute to the efficiency and quality of your operations. This demonstrates your ability to manage and maintain important business relationships.

Furthermore, address any regulatory or compliance considerations that are relevant to your operations. This can include health and safety regulations, environmental regulations, or industry-specific compliance requirements. Discuss the steps you will take to ensure compliance and mitigate any associated risks.

Additionally, discuss any plans for scalability and expansion in this section. Outline how you will accommodate future growth in your operations and production capacity. This can include strategies such as investing in additional equipment, hiring more staff, or expanding into new markets.

Lastly, address any potential challenges or risks that may arise in your operations. This can include supply chain disruptions, equipment failures, or changes in market demand. By identifying these challenges upfront, you demonstrate your ability to proactively manage and mitigate risks.

In conclusion, the Operations and Production section of your Business Plan Table of Contents provides an overview of the practical aspects of running your business. By discussing your location, facilities, production processes, capacities, partnerships, compliance considerations, scalability plans, and addressing potential challenges, you demonstrate your ability to efficiently manage your operations. Now, let’s move on to the next section of our comprehensive guide on Business Plan Table of Contents.

Financial Projections

The Financial Projections section of your Business Plan Table of Contents provides a detailed analysis of your company’s financial forecasts, including sales projections, income statements, balance sheets, cash flow projections, and key financial ratios. This section demonstrates your ability to forecast and manage the financial aspects of your business.

Start by discussing your sales forecasts. Provide a breakdown of your projected sales volumes, revenue streams, and pricing assumptions. This can be based on market research, historical data, or industry benchmarks. Clearly outline the factors that contribute to your sales projections, such as market demand, customer acquisition strategies, and growth opportunities.

Next, include your income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow projections. These financial statements provide a comprehensive overview of your company’s financial health and viability. Detail your projected revenues, expenses, assets, and liabilities over a specific timeframe, usually three to five years. This allows potential investors or lenders to assess the profitability and sustainability of your business.

Consider including a break-even analysis in this section. This analysis helps determine the point at which your business generates enough revenue to cover its expenses. It demonstrates your understanding of the financial viability of your business model and the time it will take to reach profitability.

Furthermore, discuss the key financial ratios that are relevant to your industry. These ratios can include liquidity ratios, profitability ratios, efficiency ratios, or solvency ratios. Analyze and interpret these ratios to showcase your understanding of financial performance and your ability to make informed financial decisions.

Additionally, address any funding requirements or capital investments needed to support your business operations. If you are seeking external financing, outline your plans for securing funding, whether through loans, equity investments, or grants. This demonstrates your financial acumen and your ability to manage capital effectively.

Lastly, discuss any contingency plans or risk management strategies related to your financial projections. Identify potential risks or challenges that may impact your financial performance and outline your plans to mitigate these risks. This demonstrates your ability to proactively manage financial uncertainties.

In conclusion, the Financial Projections section of your Business Plan Table of Contents provides a detailed analysis of your company’s financial forecasts, including sales projections, income statements, balance sheets, cash flow projections, and key financial ratios. By presenting comprehensive and realistic financial projections, you demonstrate your financial acumen and your ability to manage the financial aspects of your business effectively. Now, let’s move on to the next section of our comprehensive guide on Business Plan Table of Contents.

The Appendices section of your Business Plan Table of Contents provides additional supporting documents that enhance the credibility and depth of your plan. While the main body of the business plan contains the essential information, the appendices allow you to include more detailed data, research, or financial statements that may be of interest to potential investors or lenders.

Consider including market research data in your appendices. This can include surveys, focus group results, or industry reports that provide valuable insights into your target market, customer preferences, and market trends. Including this data demonstrates your commitment to thorough research and your understanding of the market dynamics.

Additionally, you may include any legal or regulatory documents that are relevant to your business. This can include licenses, permits, patents, trademarks, or copyrights. These documents provide evidence of your compliance with legal requirements and can add credibility to your business.

Financial statements are an important component of the appendices. Include detailed income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements for the projected period. These financial statements offer a comprehensive view of your company’s financial health and allow potential investors or lenders to assess your financial viability.

You may also consider including any relevant contracts or agreements in the appendices. This can include partnerships, supplier agreements, lease agreements, or distribution agreements. These documents validate your business relationships and provide a complete picture of your operations and partnerships.

Furthermore, if you have any testimonials or case studies from satisfied customers, you can include them in the appendices. These real-life examples can demonstrate the value and quality of your products or services, adding credibility to your business.

Lastly, consider including any other relevant documents that support your business plan. This can include resumes of key team members, press releases, or any other documentation that strengthens your case and provides additional insights into your business.

In conclusion, the Appendices section of your Business Plan Table of Contents provides additional supporting documents that enhance the credibility and depth of your plan. By including market research data, financial statements, legal documents, testimonials, and relevant agreements, you showcase your thoroughness and provide a more comprehensive view of your business. Now, let’s move on to the next section of our comprehensive guide on Business Plan Table of Contents.

Tips for Creating an Effective Business Plan Table of Contents

Creating an effective Business Plan Table of Contents is crucial to ensure that your plan is well-organized, easy to navigate, and provides a clear roadmap for readers. Here are some valuable tips to help you create an impactful Table of Contents for your business plan:

• Organizing the Table of Contents:
• Structure: Organize your sections in a logical and sequential order that flows naturally. Start with an overview and progress through the different aspects of your business.
• Grouping: Group related sections together to create a cohesive flow. For example, place sections related to marketing and sales strategies in close proximity to each other.
• Subsections: If your business plan has subsections within each section, consider using indents or bullet points to clearly differentiate them within the Table of Contents.
• Formatting and Presentation:
• Clear Headings: Use clear and descriptive headings for each section. Avoid using generic or vague titles that do not provide a clear indication of the content.
• Font Styles: Use consistent font styles throughout the Table of Contents. Choose a font that is easy to read and aligns with the overall design of your business plan.
• Page Numbers: Include the page numbers for each section in the Table of Contents. Ensure that the page numbers are accurate and updated if any changes are made to the plan’s content.
• Updating the Table of Contents:
• Revisions: As you make revisions to your business plan, remember to update the Table of Contents accordingly. Ensure that the page numbers are accurate and reflect any changes made.
• Renumbering: If you add or remove sections, renumber the sections and subsections throughout the Table of Contents to maintain consistency.
• Cross-Referencing: If your business plan includes cross-references between sections, ensure that these references are accurately reflected in the Table of Contents.

By following these tips, you can create a well-structured and user-friendly Table of Contents for your business plan. A clear and organized Table of Contents not only makes it easier for readers to navigate through your plan but also demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism.

In conclusion, the Table of Contents is an essential component of your business plan. It provides a clear roadmap for readers and allows them to quickly access the information they need. By organizing the Table of Contents effectively, formatting it consistently, and keeping it updated, you can create a professional and impactful representation of your business plan. Now, let’s move on to the next section of our comprehensive guide on Business Plan Table of Contents.

Congratulations! You have reached the end of our comprehensive guide on creating an effective Business Plan Table of Contents. Throughout this blog post, we have explored the importance of a well-structured Table of Contents and its impact on the overall effectiveness of your business plan.

We began by understanding the definition and significance of a business plan, recognizing it as the foundation of your venture. We then delved into each section of the Business Plan Table of Contents, providing in-depth insights and tips for crafting compelling content.

From the Executive Summary to the Company Description, Market Analysis to Marketing and Sales Strategy, Organizational Structure and Management to Operations and Production, and Financial Projections to Appendices, we covered every key aspect of a business plan. Each section plays a critical role in showcasing your vision, strategy, market understanding, organizational capabilities, and financial projections.

We also provided valuable tips for creating an effective Table of Contents, emphasizing the importance of logical organization, clear headings, consistent formatting, and regular updates. A well-structured Table of Contents enhances the readability and usability of your business plan, guiding readers through its contents with ease.

Remember, your business plan is a living document that should be regularly reviewed, revised, and updated to reflect the evolving nature of your business. As you make any changes, ensure that the Table of Contents accurately represents the content within your plan.

By following the guidelines and tips outlined in this blog post, you can create a comprehensive and professional Business Plan Table of Contents that impresses potential investors, lenders, and stakeholders. A well-crafted business plan not only serves as a roadmap for your own success but also demonstrates your commitment, knowledge, and preparedness to external parties.

We hope that this guide has provided you with valuable insights and practical advice to create an effective Business Plan Table of Contents. Now it’s time for you to put this knowledge into action and craft a compelling business plan that sets you on the path to success.

Remember, a business plan is just the beginning. The real work lies in executing your strategies, adapting to market changes, and continuously refining your approach. Embrace the journey, stay focused, and keep striving for excellence.

All the best in your entrepreneurial endeavors!

Use This Business Plan Format to Expertly Write Your Plan

Written by Dave Lavinsky

In this guide, you’ll learn how to format your business plan professionally. Business plan structure and format helps readers look beyond distracting style to the real meat of your idea.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

How to Format Your Business Plan: The Cover Sheet

Every business plan should begin with a simple business plan cover page including the business name, your name and contact information. An easy to read table of contents should follow.

Example Business Plan Table of Contents

I: Executive Summary      a. Business Overview      b. Success Factors      c. Financial Highlights

II: Company Overview      a. Who is [Company Name]?      b. [Company Name]’s History      c. [Company Name]’s Products & Services

III: Industry Analysis      a. Industry Trends

IV: Customer Analysis      a. Customer Segmentation

V: Competitive Analysis      a. Direct & Indirect Competitors      b. Competitive Advantage

VI: Marketing Plan      a. The [Company Name] Brand      b. Promotions Strategy      c. Pricing Strategy

VII: Operations Plan      a. Functional Roles      b. Goals and Milestones

VIII: Management Team      a. Management Team Members      b. Hiring Plan

IX: Financial Plan      a. Revenue Model      b. Revenue and Cost Drivers      c. Key Assumptions & Forecasts

X: Appendix

The cover sheet should leave no question for readers to be able to identify the business plan when it is in a stack with dozens of others on their desk. The table of contents allows them to easily refer to sections within the plan. For example, after reading the executive summary, some investors with an eye for numbers may turn directly to the financial plan and statements. Proper business plan format allows readers to quickly get the information they want.

Example Business Plan Format

There are 10 business plan components or sections that every entrepreneur and business owner must include in their plan. These include:

• Executive summary
• Company overview
• Industry analysis
• Customer analysis
• Competitive analysis
• Marketing plan
• Operations plan
• Management team
• Financial plan

You should recognize these if you’ve ever worked with the best business plan template .

Formatting your business plan with charts and graphs is welcomed to break up long blocks of text. However, charts and graphs shouldn’t be used for their own sake. They must make the information easier to pass on than text would.

The business plan format that investors and lenders expect includes the following 10 sections. You can download our business plan format pdf here, to help you get started. We’ve included important notes in each section specific to business plan formatting to help you as you write your plan.

1. Start with Your Executive Summary

An executive summary gives readers a crisp overview of your business at the start of your plan. This section should not be more than two pages long and should include the following:

• What is the business about?
• Where and why did the idea of the business originate?
• Who are the owners?
• Which industry is it operating in?
• What is its core function?
• Where is it located?
• How is it going to make money?
• How much money (if any) is it already making?
• What are its financial projections?

The best format for your executive summary is paragraphs. Utilizing bullets and headings is also useful formatting within an executive summary, as it aids the reader in scanning the content on the page.

2. Company Overview Section

The company overview is the perfect place to highlight the strengths of your business. This section gives the reader additional information about your products and/or services and describes your company’s past accomplishments.

Including the below in this section will provide further clarity about your business:

• What type of business you are (e.g., C-Corporation, sole proprietor)
• When your business started
• Business’ accomplishments to date

The best formatting to use in this section is paragraphs to describe your company’s strengths and products/services. You should also include a chart that outlines your company’s achievements to date.

3. Industry or Market Analysis

The industry or market analysis gives the reader a clear understanding of your industry and the audience it serves. It includes a detailed explanation of your market size and trends.

Typically, the format of this section should be paragraphs. Feel free to include charts and graphs to best convey the information to the reader.

4. The Customer Analysis States Who Your Customers Are and What They Need

In this section of your plan, explain who your target customers are and identify their specific needs. Doing this will help you better target and attract customers.

5. Competitive Analysis

The Competitive Analysis section identifies your direct and indirect competitors. It discusses who they are and their strengths and weaknesses. It then details your areas of competitive advantages.

Whether your competitors are small or large businesses, describe them. Telling investors there are no competitors (big or small) often gives the impression that a market does not exist for your company.

With regards to formatting, use paragraphs to describe each competitor. As appropriate, adding a competitor matrix to show similarities and differences between your company and the competition can be very powerful.

6. Your Marketing Plan is a Key Section

The marketing & sales section of your business plan should outline how you plan to attract new customers and retain old ones. This section should outline the ways customers can be introduced to and engage with your offerings and describe how you will convert these prospects into paying customers.

Set marketing objectives that include the following (if applicable):

• Introducing new products
• Extending the market reach
• Exploring new markets
• Boosting sales
• Cross-selling
• Creating a long-term partnership with clients
• Increasing prices without affecting sales
• Creating a content marketing strategy

Organize your Marketing Plan into the 4 P’s – Price, Product, Promotions and Place. If you have multiple products or services, include a menu with each key item and its price.

7. The Operations Plan Format

Your Operations Plan identifies your key operational processes and milestones you expect to accomplish. Using a Gantt chart is a great way to show your expected future milestones. You can also format this section with tables that document the dates of future milestones.

8. You Need to Prove Your Management Team Can Execute

“A company is only as good as the people it keeps.” – Mary Kay Ash, American Entrepreneur and Businesswoman

The Management Team section of your business plan focuses on the people who run the business.

Who are the decision-makers, who is the product expert, who is the operations head, and who is running the entire show? A glimpse into the expertise and capabilities of your team members and how their experiences will help grow your business will boost stakeholder confidence.

To improve the formatting and best convey your management team to readers, consider adding an organizational chart that shows your team members and reporting structure.

9. Format Your Financial Plan

The goal of this section is to convince the reader that your business is stable and will be financially successful. Arm this section with past and/or forecasted cash flow statements, balance sheets, profit & loss statements, expense budgeting and sales forecasts.

If you run an operational business, include 3 years of historical data to help investors gain an understanding of how feasible your funding request is and if your business is capable of generating good returns.

Also include your funding request, if applicable, in this section. You should mention how much investment is required to take your business to the next significant milestone and how the money will be spent. You should also define if you are seeking debt or equity funding. If you are seeking debt financing like an SBA loan, ensure your financial projections include the debt and show steady repayments of both the principal and return under reasonable loan terms.

If you are seeking equity financing, you don’t need to include your valuation expectations in the business plan, but you should be aligned within your ownership team on the amount of equity you are willing to exchange before you pitch investors.

Example Financial Plan

Projected sales, gross profit & net income.

5 Year Annual Income Statement

5 Year Annual Balance Sheet

5 Year Annual Cash Flow Statement

10. Appendix

This section includes supporting documentation of your business case. This could include renderings of a planned store location, market research reports referenced in the plan, key supplier or buyer contracts that substantiate your financial projections or historical marketing and sales data.

Formatting Your Business Plan

Overall, business plans should use simple and standard formatting. Twelve point font size in a standard font like Arial or Times New Roman is best, as well as the standard margin size of one inch on each side. Pages should be numbered, and the name of the company should appear on each page in the header or footer.

Use charts whenever possible as it makes it much easier for readers to consume the information in your plan.

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4 Examples of Business Plan Table of Contents

Written by   Peter Keszegh

When crafting a lengthy business plan, it’s best to create a table of contents that can serve as the backbone for your business blueprint. This will allow you to guide readers and potential investors from beginning to end, allowing them to find what exactly they need to know about your business proposal in a convenient way.

In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to structure your business plan table of contents and provide you with a few examples to help you get started.

What’s a business plan table of contents?

A business plan table of contents is an outline of all the relevant sections listed in your business plan. It’s more than just a simple list; it’s also the first impression you’ll be giving to potential investors , which is why it’s important to make sure your table of contents is well-written and detailed from the get-go.

The business plan table of contents will immediately show what your business is all about, and will give readers an overview of relevant subsections and other aspects of your proposal.

A roadmap to your business strategy

Your business plan table of contents is an overview of all the relevant parts of your overall business strategy . This will make it easier for readers and potential investors to identify the key elements to how you plan to run your business.

Saves time for busy readers

In today’s busy world, time is money. Don’t waste the time of potential investors by giving them a business plan that’s difficult to get through. A good business plan table of contents should save readers time and provide them a detailed outline of your business proposal from the start.

Reflects your attention to detail

If you put a lot of thought into making your business plan table of contents detailed, that’s a testament to how meticulous you are as an entrepreneur and how well you handle business strategies and finances. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone!

Enhances readability and professionalism

If you have a business plan table of contents that’s easy to read and concisely written, that shows potential investors that you know your business plan inside and out , and understand your vision well enough to write it all down in simple terms. It’s a good look for professionalism!

Ultimately, a good table of contents all comes down to getting your business vision across in the most effective way possible, and leaving an impact on potential investors. This document should spell out why these investors should believe in your vision for the future.

Sections to include in your business plan

It’s important to make sure you nail down all the important details in your business plan. Here are some sections you should consider including in your own plans:

Executive summary

An executive summary is exactly that – a glimpse into what your business is all about. Here, you should state your business mission statement, what products and services you’re offering, your leadership team and its employees, and where relevant stakeholders can find you.

It’s also important to mention what your business goals are and the financing you’ll need to achieve those objectives.

Company description

This section will provide readers with a more detailed look into your business. Here, you should describe what your business does, the market needs you address, and the impact of your products or services on the existing market.

Emphasize what sets your business apart from others and explicitly mention the competitive advantages you have.This section will be dedicated to a more extensive look into your business.

Market analysis

In this section, you’ll have to show potential investors that you have a deep understanding of your market, competitors, and overall industry. Write about your target market and its demographics and needs , as well as areas for potential growth . You can use case studies and statistics to illustrate your arguments.

Organization and management

Investors need to know your business’ organizational framework , as well as who your team managers and members are. Make sure to provide biographies of relevant team members that include their current duties and responsibilities , as well as how they contribute to larger organizational goals.

Services or products

Let investors know the products you’re selling or the services you’re providing. This section should give them an idea of the life cycles of your products as well as the research and development activities your business is investing in for future products and services.

Marketing and sales

This section should discuss your business strategies in attracting customers and keeping them . Outline your marketing and sales plans and give investors an idea of what your brand messaging and advertising strategies are.

Funding request

If you’ll be needing additional funds from external financing and investments , you should also include this in your business plan. Make sure to mention how much money you’ll be needing and how you’ll be using them , and whether you plan to source them via loans, grants, or other means . Include specific timeframes as well.

Financial projections

A business plan should also include financial forecasts to show potential investors the business’ profitability. Prepare an income statement, cash flow forecasts, and a balance sheet. It’s also good to provide a break-even analysis to determine the period when your business is likely to become profitable.

The appendix is where you should include all supporting documents or materials mentioned earlier on in your business plan. These may include resumes, permits, lease agreements, legal documents, and any other relevant files.

Consider each section of your business plan as a building block that will shape your overall vision, to make it attractive and easy to understand for investors. By working on these sections, you’ll be able to create a well-prepared document that reflects the true potential of your business.

Business plan table of contents examples

A clear and concise business plan table of contents is a great tool that will help entrepreneurs from all kinds of industries.

Here are four examples:

Standard business plan table of contents

You can opt to use a standard structure for your business plan table of contents. This format is good for any industry, and gives your potential investors a simple but powerful look into what your business is all about.

Executive Summary

Business concept and vision

Financial features and requirements

Current business position and major achievements

Company Description

Business formation history and milestones

Location and facilities

Mission statement and core values

Market Analysis

Industry background

Market needs and trends

Target market and customer profile

Organization and Management

Organizational structure chart

Management team bios

Legal and ownership structure

Products or Services

Detailed description of products or services

Development status and R&D activities

Sourcing and fulfillment

Marketing and Sales Strategy

Market penetration and growth strategy

Sales strategy and forecast

Communication channels

Funding Request

Current funding requirements

Future funding requirements over five years

Proposed terms and use of funds

Financial Projections

Income statements and cash flow statements

Balance sheets

Break-even analysis

Resumes of key managers

Legal documents

Any other relevant documents

Tech startup business plan table of contents

If you’re running a tech startup or looking to create an innovative product that will disrupt the market, you may want to tailor your business plan to highlight these. This kind of table of contents will emphasize your startup’s vision, how you plan to develop your products, and your user acquisition strategies.

Startup vision and quick growth plan

Unique value proposition

Company Overview

Founding story

Technology and innovation edge

Market Validation

Proof of concept results

Customer feedback and market demand

Product Roadmap

Current product offerings

Future development pipeline

User Acquisition and Marketing

Digital marketing strategy

Partnership and network growth plans

Operational Plan

Day-to-day operational details

Supplier and partner relationships

Management Team

Founders and key team members

Advisory board

Financial Plan

Revenue model and projections

Funding history and future rounds

Technical specifications

Patent details

Any additional supporting information

Service industry business plan table of contents

If you're working in the service industry, make sure your business plan table of contents clearly outlines your daily operations and workflows, your customer engagement strategies, and quality control measures.

Service offerings and key benefits

Summary of financial objectives

Business Description

Background and development

Service delivery process

Market Analysis and Strategy

Competitive landscape

Pricing and sales strategy

Customer Engagement

Customer service approach

Loyalty and retention programs

Operational Workflow

Service fulfillment logistics

Quality control measures

Management and Staffing

Organizational chart

Hiring and training plans

Financial Overview

Cost structure and profitability analysis

Funding requirements and strategy

Client testimonials

Key contracts and agreements

Retail business plan table of contents

If you’re working in retail, it’s ideal to highlight your strategies for inventory management , customer relations, and sales. This will give potential investors a clear look into how you plan to run your retail business.

Overview of business concept

Financial features

Current market position

History and vision

Unique value proposition in the retail industry

Detailed examination of target market

Customer demographics

Overview of competitive landscape

Product Line and Services

Description of products

Inventory sourcing strategies

Additional services offered

Marketing Strategy

Advertising strategies

Customer loyalty programs

Operations Plan

Daily operations

Location details

Supplier agreements

Management and Organization

Structure of the business

Profiles of management team

Employee roles

Sales Strategy

Sales forecast

Pricing strategy

Sales channels (in-store and online)

Detailed financial projections including profit and loss

Cash flow statement

Resumes of key staff

Detailed market research

Letters of intent from suppliers

All in all, it’s good to make sure your business plan table of contents lays out all the important details your investors need to know, depending on what industry you’re in. Make sure your table of contents has everything others need to know about your business, and that it’s complete and easy to understand.

Final thoughts: Business plan table of contents

When you’re creating a detailed and well-structured business plan table of contents, you’re a step closer to realizing your business ambitions. Remember that your business plan is what’ll give you a strong case and make you look good to investors, so it’s ideal that you promote your vision in the best way possible.

Once you’ve created a solid business plan, you can ensure that you’ll be on your way to career development, business growth, and meaningful success.

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How to Write a Business Plan: 10 Easy Steps + Examples

Free Business Plan Template

• Vinay Kevadia
• June 13, 2024

22 Min Read

Is it possible to finish writing a detailed business plan in a day or two? (research included)

I don’t want to come off as some Messiah blabbering stuff, but it can be easily done with ChatGPT and many similar tools at your disposal.

I remember talking to a friend who spent almost a week outlining his plan.

As I spoke to him, I got to the bottom of why it is so tough for entrepreneurs.

You start working on a business plan with 100% motivation, but the anxiety—fear of accuracy, poor writing skills, complexity and length of your plan, and not having enough time—comes in and forces you to rethink.

Is it really something I should do?

I can help, just as I did to my friend.

Here’s a step-by-step business planning guide with necessary tips, tool recommendations, and mistakes to avoid to help you draft your business plan in less than a week.

It’s going to be a while, so buckle up. Let’s dive right in.

What is a Business Plan?

A business plan, in simple words, is a document that highlights a company’s goals and its plan to achieve them. A well-prepared business plan outlines the company’s mission statement, purpose, future goals, market research, go-to marketing plan, and financial projections.

It may also highlight your operational plan and introduce key staff responsible for managing day-to-day operations.

A well-versed business plan is undoubtedly critical in getting any business up, running, and successful.

Likewise, It’s your business’s key to documenting business models, project financials, and securing investor funding. In short, it is your business plan that turns your business idea into reality.

However, not all business plans are the same; it all depends on the purpose of your plan. Let’s understand it before we head to our how-to guide.

Knowing the purpose of your business plan

The following are mostly the reasons why people write business plans .

Let’s understand these and what could be done differently to make business plans more relevant to serve that purpose.

1. Securing financing from Investors/lenders

Starting with the most popular one—entrepreneurs usually write a business plan because they need funds. They use it to pitch to investors or lenders seeking financing, be it investor funding, government grants, or bank loans.

To make your business plan more appealing and relevant to investors, understand what they look for before investing in a business—clarity, potential return on investment, and risk mitigation.

So, emphasizing market analysis, providing accurate and realistic financial projections, and showcasing the expertise of your management could be a few things you could do differently in your plan to appeal to your investors.

2. Attracting partners and stakeholders

Starting up and growing an entire business all by yourself, it’s a huge task! You’re just starting, you don’t know everything, funds are limited, and so are the hours in a day. That’s why you need partners.

Partners and stakeholders play a crucial role in the success and sustainability of a business. To attract partners for your business, understand why they would be interested in working with you; it could be a shared value proposition, growth opportunities, and more.

Outlining shared values and vision, demonstrating competitive advantage, and detailing partnership opportunities are some of the things you should consider focusing on while seeking a co-founder for your business.

3. Setting and documenting business goals

It’s important for a founder to set realistic business goals to provide them with direction and a benchmark for success.

So, if your primary goal of writing a business plan is setting business goals, emphasize including KPIs, setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals, and establishing milestones for realistic deadlines.

4. Business growth & operations planning roadmap

This one is mostly required by well-established entrepreneurs planning to grow, expand, or optimize their business operations.

If you need help optimizing operations planning or planning to grow your business, focus on outlining your growth strategies, like how you plan to grow or scale, and detail operational processes, including supply chain management, quality control measures, and production processes.

Furthermore, do your research and identify potential risks or unforeseen threats involved and counter-measures to mitigate them.

Now that we have discussed knowing the purpose of your plan, let’s discuss the steps to write one.

How to write a business plan (10 easy steps)

Creating the first draft of your traditional business plan may seem like a time-consuming process, but it’s not.

(Of course, only with the right steps and correct approach)

Not really sure about it? Check out the quick steps to write a comprehensive business plan in a few hours.

1. Prepare an executive summary

As the name suggests, an executive summary is a concise overview of your entire business plan. While it’s the first chapter of your plan, it is usually written at the end as a summary of all the sections.

Since your executive summary holds the weight of your 40-page plan in just a page or two, it should be written in a way that makes readers want to know more about your business and read further.

So the question here is— why would an investor want to know more?

For instance,

• Are you indicating a significant market opportunity?
• Is there a clear and exciting value proposition?
• Do you have a sound business model and promising numbers?

These are just the examples. However, you should focus on clearly providing the information investors usually seek while reviewing a formal business plan.

Your executive summary should include the following info:

• A clear description of your business concept.
• Your mission statement, long-term vision, and business goals
• Products or services you offer as well as your differentiator.
• An overview of your target market
• Your go-to-market strategy
• An overview of your management team
• Summary of your business financials
• Your funding requirements (only if raising funds)

2. Provide a company overview

Next up—it’s your company overview. If you’ve ever been to an interview, you’d know the first question an interviewer asks.

Tell me something about yourself.

The company overview is just like that question. It provides your readers with basic background information about your business, such as what you do, your business model, your value proposition, and more.

I recently had a chat with Logan Mallory , VP of marketing at Motivosity , on the importance of value propositions, and he says,

“Don’t underestimate the power of a strong value proposition. Initially, we concentrated too much on product features rather than how they solved specific problems for our customers. This error diluted our message and made it difficult to stand out.”

He further added, “We pivoted by stressing our distinct approach to employee engagement, highlighting real-world success stories and tangible results. For example, we demonstrated how our platform reduced employee turnover at a mid-sized technology company by 20% in six months.”

Logan says this adjustment was more appealing to their target audience and investors. It clearly communicated the value they provided, which eventually helped.

While you can talk about your business all day, it’s wise to know what they want to learn and emphasize simply that.

Investors are generally looking for answers to these two fundamental questions: who are you, and what do you plan to do? Besides, your company description section should also include the necessary details like:

• Your business structure (e.g. LLC, sole proprietorship, etc.)
• Your business model
• Vision, mission, and value proposition
• Your industry
• Business history and future goals

As mentioned before, with a boatload of information to tell about your business, it’s easier to distract and go sideways.

So make sure your company overview section is concise and to the point. And, of course, language to be easy to understand.

3. Perform market and industry analysis

You already knew your business inside-out when it came to writing the company description; this time, it is different. Now, you need to understand your market yourself before you go explaining it to others.

A market analysis is simply a part of your plan where you bring together all the information you have about your customers—who they are, where they live, why they will buy what you’re selling, and more.

A group of these customers is called your target market, they are the people you will sell your product or service to.

Your business can have multiple target markets, depending on your offerings.

For example: A bakery with a product line of various baked goods may target families, young professionals, as well as health-conscious consumers for their different sets of products.

Besides a specific and clear description of your target market, your market analysis should also include:

• Market size and growth potential
• Key market trends
• List of regulations and licensing requirements

Make sure you present your numbers in a way that demonstrates how your market has grown over time and how you can take advantage of it.

4. Conduct competitive analysis

Similar to how market analysis is about knowing your target market, competitive analysis is about knowing your competitors. Knowing and understanding your competitors is an aspect when it comes to defining your business opportunity.

Every business on the planet Earth has some type of competition.

(Must be from Mars if they don’t!)

If you’re seriously unable to spot any competitors, try looking for the indirect ones—indirect competitors are other alternatives available in the market for your product or service.

For instance , If you are a coffee shop owner and there isn’t any coffee shop nearby, you may consider the restaurant across the road as your indirect competitor.

Once you’ve figured out your direct and indirect competitors, research their business, product or service offerings, marketing strategies, and more.

Conduct a SWOT analysis to understand how your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats are compared with them. It’s an easy way to determine your competitive edge in the market.

After you’ve done all this, you will have a much better understanding of your business as well as your competitors, which will eventually help in developing a clear differentiator. It can be anything from competitive pricing to improved offerings.

5. List your product and service offerings

This section is at the center of your plan, and the rest revolves around it. After all, your product and service are what brings in money for your business.

Your product and services section is a clear description of the product and/or service you are selling to your customers and how it solves their problems.

You may start by describing the customer pain points and problems that exist in the market. Followed by how you plan to solve that problem with your offerings.

The structure of your products and services sections may heavily vary depending on your business model.

For example: If you have a range of products, you may not require a detailed description and a long list of features. However, if you’re writing a traditional business plan for SaaS software, you need to make it as detailed as possible.

Your product or service description may include the following:

• A detailed description of how your product or service works
• Your product or service pricing model
• Details on product development or procurement
• How do you maintain quality standards

Besides the must-add info, focus on developing a compelling narrative around your product/service offerings. How will the users use your product, and how will it make an impact in their day-to-day lives?

Have you heard the old saying, “Facts tell, but stories sell?” This is something that draws in potential investors.

6. Develop a sales and marketing plan

Your sales and marketing plan explains how you will spread the word to your potential customers to sell your products.

However, the first thing your marketing plan should do is to position your product or service in the market appropriately.

How exactly should you position yourself? It depends. You can position yourself as a premium brand with the highest pricing but top-quality service. Or focus on competitive solutions.

Market positioning varies from business type to business model, so the information you gather during your competitive analysis will be useful. Refer to how your competitors are positioned and plan accordingly.

Once you’re done positioning yourself, bring in the information you have on your target customer to develop a winning marketing strategy.

Reasons? Depending on who your customers are, do they make online purchases, and how they buy products like you, you might need to plan different strategies to target your customers. It could be promoting your business on Instagram and TikTok to affiliate marketing, anything.

While your marketing strategy includes reaching potentially interested customers, the sales process starts once a customer has already shown interest in what you have to offer.

Getting the right mix of sales and marketing strategy is crucial for acquiring more customers.

7. Introduce your management team

Of course, the first thing investors look at is a great business idea and the product. However, they also look at the founder as well as the team behind the scenes they’re taking a bet on.

And this particular chapter helps them understand who’s running the show.

You should provide a brief introduction of each management team member, their qualifications, area of expertise, and the tasks they perform at the organization.

Make sure your management and organization section answers a few questions for investors: Do you have the key people for efficient operations? Do they have relevant industry experience? What are the roles you are actively seeking (if any)? And more.

Consider including an organizational chart to show your organization’s internal structure, including employee roles, responsibilities, and hierarchy. Explain how each individual contributes to the company’s success. This will make your investors feel confident about your core team.

8. Create a logistics and operations plan

Your operations plan is where you will talk about how your day-to-day business operations will look like.

Unlike some other chapters of your plan, an operations plan is an essential one for both investors as well as your internal team. Of course, you don’t need to be super specific or detailed when writing for yourself.

The basic components to include your operational plan are:

• Vendors or suppliers
• Manufacturing process
• Supply chain management
• Equipment and machinery
• Inventory management
• Facilities, and more.

The contents of your operations plan totally depend on your industry, product/services, how your business is structured, and who it is written for—internal team or lenders.

Let’s take it from an example:

Suppose you are a candle-making company (manufacturing business).

In this case, your operations plan may include raw-material requirements, machinery requirements, production process, quality control, distribution, and more. It will require a detailed description.

On the other hand, if you own a scented candle retail shop, the processes to include in your plan would be much less.

So, there cannot be a perfect template or structure to follow. Just understand your business and try to explain best how you manage your day-to-day operations.

9. Make accurate financial projections

Here comes the elephant in the room. Most entrepreneurs consider a financial plan as the most challenging one to mark as done. While it indeed is an important one for investors to consider, it isn’t as complicated as people think.

Similar to the previous section, the level of detail here also depends on your audience and the purpose of your plan. However, a typical startup financial plan includes the following financial statements and forecasts:

• Profit and loss statement
• Balance sheet
• Cash flow statement
• Sales forecast
• Projected expenses

But how do you project financials and make these statements? Start by determining your financial requirements, followed by setting financial goals, analyzing current financials, and making future assumptions.

Preparing detailed forecasts simply using generic Excel templates can be challenging and time-consuming. You should consider using a financial forecasting tool for accurate and timely results.

10. Assemble a well-organized appendix

While the appendix cannot be considered a primary section of a business plan, this is the place for you to add additional data, charts, support documents, and other necessary information.

Although it is an optional chapter of your plan, having a well-organized appendix helps you add credibility to your plan with the necessary information and documentation backing your business idea.

Here’s a list of information or documents you should consider including:

• Legal documents—Incorporation docs, licenses, and permits, etc.
• Personnel details—organizational charts, personnel certifications, and degrees, etc.
• Additional financial documents—Credit history, past and current financial statements, business assets, etc.
• Supplementary information—sales and marketing materials, product blueprints and designs, etc.

11. Business plan cover page (optional)

Don’t judge a book by its cover.

The popularity of this metaphor doesn’t make it very accurate since most people form their perception just by looking at the “cover”.  I may sound like a philosopher speaking, but that’s true.

A compelling and well-designed cover page that reflects your brand and vision is essential to form a good first impression for potential investors and stakeholders.

Besides having a good design and using brand colors, make sure you include the following information on your cover:

• Business name
• Company logo
• Tagline or motto
• Business plan title and year
• Prepared by
• Contact information
• Confidentiality statement

Remember, it’s optional to have a business plan cover page . While it is an excellent addition to your plan, don’t put extra effort into the design part; keep it simple.

Common business planning mistakes to avoid

As you’re reading this article, I suppose you’re creating a business plan for the very first time. A traditional business plan is generally a 30-40 page long document, and you’re bound to make mistakes, but we’ll help you skip the most common ones.

Here are the business planning mistakes entrepreneurs make that you should avoid:

1. Insufficient market research

Conducting thorough market research is a must before you write your business plan. Insufficient market research can result in inaccurate market understanding, wrongly defined target markets, irrelevant marketing strategies, and unrealistic financial projections.

In short, this is one mistake that can cost you your business.

2. Lack of focus on the customer

Your ultimate goal as a business owner must be to provide the best solution and meet customer needs. Lack of focus on customer requirements may result in dropped sales numbers and limited market penetration.

Keep checking on your customers, asking for their feedback, and improving your offerings to align with their requirements.

3. Overly optimistic financial projections

It’s your business, and it’s natural for you to imagine good things about it. This often leads to making unrealistic financial projections. Having overly optimistic financials can result in poor decision-making, losing investor trust, overspending cash in hand, and more.

4. Spending too much time planning

Planning is essential, but execution is where theory meets reality. Spending too much time planning can prevent you from taking timely action, resulting in several missed opportunities.

An effective plan should lead to actionable steps implemented within a reasonable timeframe.

5. Inconsistent monitoring and updating

A business plan isn’t a one-off document you create and forget about. Inconsistent monitoring and updating your business plan can lead to strategic inconsistencies and operational inefficiencies.

On the other hand, regularly updating your business plan helps you keep up with competitors, manage customer demands, address recent market trends, and efficiently track progress.

Tips for writing a compelling business plan

While a step-by-step guide helps you stick to the process and finish the task, tips are like best practices some field experts have used to make things easier.

Here are some tips on writing a business plan that can help you save a lot of time.

1. Determine the purpose of your business plan

As I mentioned up front in the article, this feels like an extra addition to the list. Anyways, knowing the purpose of your plan beforehand is super important.

The sole factor decides the text’s tone, what sections would be there, and what parts would be emphasized more than the others. If you fail here, I am not sure how your plan will turn out.

2. Know your audience

Knowing your audience, and the people reading your plan is essential to make your business plan specific to them. If you’re writing a business plan for your internal team, it would emphasize operations and marketing strategies more and less on the company description.

Likewise, it would point up financials if it were written for venture capitalists. The dynamics of a plan change as the audience reads it; that’s why it’s crucial to know your audience.

3. Get inspiration from sample business plans

You cannot draft the whole thing from scratch without a basic blueprint. Referring to sample business plans helps you have a basic understanding of the requirements of a business plan, and it can massively help in developing one.

Upmetrics has a library of 400+ sample business plans you can refer to. Select a business plan template and start planning.

4. Have someone review it for you

It’s common for us humans to overlook our mistakes. Having someone else review your plan would help you get a different perspective and may help you highlight a few aspects of your plan that you may have overlooked or missed.

Besides having someone else review your plan, you may also seek help from AI. AI tools like ChatGPT and Upmetrics can review your plan and give human-like feedback.

Reviewing and updating your business plan

Reality check: finishing the first draft of your business plan isn’t the end.

A business plan isn’t something you create once to keep it as it is forever. It is a dynamic document that requires timely revisions and updates to keep it relevant to the changing market trends.

Your first review will be just after you complete your first draft. Since you have just finished it, it may not require any significant changes. However, conducting a thorough review is crucial before you send it to investors.

The last thing you want is for them to reject your proposal because of a bunch of typos that could have easily been avoided.

Besides the first review, it’s suggested to follow a review cycle of 45 days to 6 months to stay relevant to the market and consumer shifts. It’s okay if you cannot have regular review meetings, but consider reassessing and updating your business plan and processes when there is a signifi cant market shift.

How to use AI to write your business plan

The rise of generative AI tools has changed the entire business planning process. AI tools like ChatGPT and Upmetrics can help simplify business planning concepts like competitor analysis, market segmentation, and target market.

Not just simplify, but they can help reduce time spent on activities like market research, competitor analysis, and financial planning by a huge margin.

The easiest way to plan today would be to collaborate with an AI business plan generator . We are not totally relying on AI to do it for you, but handing over the manual, complex, and boring tasks to be more productive.

Talking about the planning process—AI can help you brainstorm ideas, suggest marketing strategies, write sections of your plan, help in industry and market research, develop realistic financial projections, and more.

While AI has pros and cons for business planning, understanding all the things you can outsource to AI will help you get the most out of it.

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Start writing your business plan

Let’s face it—preparing a business plan that lures investors requires putting in some serious work; there’s no secret sauce. But you must take the first step to stay ahead in the cut-throat competition; there is no way around it.

So, what are you waiting for? You have the steps to get started right here. It’s time to get into details—better understand your business and the value it offers to its consumers, get the right business planning tool , and start planning.

Free business plan templates and examples

Need help getting started writing a business plan? Here are business plan templates and examples to help you get started.

Sample Business Plan Library

Explore over 400 real-world business plan examples from a wide variety of industries.

One Page Business Plan Template

Use this simple one-page business plan template to immediately get started on your plan.

Free Startup Business Plan Template

Use this simple startup business plan template to immediately get started on your plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a business plan be.

The ideal length of a business plan depends on the purpose of your business plan. However, a typical business plan can range from 15 to 35 pages and beyond, depending on what it is written for.

Can I use business plan software or templates?

Indeed. Using business plan software or templates is considered the most efficient and reliable method for creating a business plan. A business planning tool like Upmetrics allows you to import a template and start editing to help you create a business plan in no time.

How do I start writing a business plan?

Business planning is a thorough process divided into multiple steps. Starting with market and industry research to writing the executive summary, outlining the business idea, value proposition, and mission to company overview, products and services, and followed by the rest of the chapters, including financial projections.

Can I write a business plan myself?

Of course, you can. With many AI business plan generators and business plan templates available online, creating a business plan is easier than ever before. So, you can easily write a business plan yourself.

What are the types of business plans?

There are various types of business plans entrepreneurs create considering their different requirements. These include:

• Traditional business plan
• One page business plan
• Lean business plan
• Internal business plan

About the Author

Vinay Kevadiya

Vinay Kevadiya is the founder and CEO of Upmetrics, the #1 business planning software. His ultimate goal with Upmetrics is to revolutionize how entrepreneurs create, manage, and execute their business plans. He enjoys sharing his insights on business planning and other relevant topics through his articles and blog posts. Read more

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What Is a Business Plan?

Understanding business plans, how to write a business plan, common elements of a business plan, the bottom line, business plan: what it is, what's included, and how to write one.

Adam Hayes, Ph.D., CFA, is a financial writer with 15+ years Wall Street experience as a derivatives trader. Besides his extensive derivative trading expertise, Adam is an expert in economics and behavioral finance. Adam received his master's in economics from The New School for Social Research and his Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in sociology. He is a CFA charterholder as well as holding FINRA Series 7, 55 & 63 licenses. He currently researches and teaches economic sociology and the social studies of finance at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.

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A business plan is a document that outlines a company's goals and the strategies to achieve them. It's valuable for both startups and established companies. For startups, a well-crafted business plan is crucial for attracting potential lenders and investors. Established businesses use business plans to stay on track and aligned with their growth objectives. This article will explain the key components of an effective business plan and guidance on how to write one.

Key Takeaways

• A business plan is a document detailing a company's business activities and strategies for achieving its goals.
• Startup companies use business plans to launch their venture and to attract outside investors.
• For established companies, a business plan helps keep the executive team focused on short- and long-term objectives.
• There's no single required format for a business plan, but certain key elements are essential for most companies.

Investopedia / Ryan Oakley

Any new business should have a business plan in place before beginning operations. Banks and venture capital firms often want to see a business plan before considering making a loan or providing capital to new businesses.

Even if a company doesn't need additional funding, having a business plan helps it stay focused on its goals. Research from the University of Oregon shows that businesses with a plan are significantly more likely to secure funding than those without one. Moreover, companies with a business plan grow 30% faster than those that don't plan. According to a Harvard Business Review article, entrepreneurs who write formal plans are 16% more likely to achieve viability than those who don't.

A business plan should ideally be reviewed and updated periodically to reflect achieved goals or changes in direction. An established business moving in a new direction might even create an entirely new plan.

There are numerous benefits to creating (and sticking to) a well-conceived business plan. It allows for careful consideration of ideas before significant investment, highlights potential obstacles to success, and provides a tool for seeking objective feedback from trusted outsiders. A business plan may also help ensure that a company’s executive team remains aligned on strategic action items and priorities.

While business plans vary widely, even among competitors in the same industry, they often share basic elements detailed below.

A well-crafted business plan is essential for attracting investors and guiding a company's strategic growth. It should address market needs and investor requirements and provide clear financial projections.

While there are any number of templates that you can use to write a business plan, it's best to try to avoid producing a generic-looking one. Let your plan reflect the unique personality of your business.

Many business plans use some combination of the sections below, with varying levels of detail, depending on the company.

The length of a business plan can vary greatly from business to business. Regardless, gathering the basic information into a 15- to 25-page document is best. Any additional crucial elements, such as patent applications, can be referenced in the main document and included as appendices.

Common elements in many business plans include:

• Executive summary : This section introduces the company and includes its mission statement along with relevant information about the company's leadership, employees, operations, and locations.
• Products and services : Describe the products and services the company offers or plans to introduce. Include details on pricing, product lifespan, and unique consumer benefits. Mention production and manufacturing processes, relevant patents , proprietary technology , and research and development (R&D) information.
• Market analysis : Explain the current state of the industry and the competition. Detail where the company fits in, the types of customers it plans to target, and how it plans to capture market share from competitors.
• Marketing strategy : Outline the company's plans to attract and retain customers, including anticipated advertising and marketing campaigns. Describe the distribution channels that will be used to deliver products or services to consumers.
• Financial plans and projections : Established businesses should include financial statements, balance sheets, and other relevant financial information. New businesses should provide financial targets and estimates for the first few years. This section may also include any funding requests.

Investors want to see a clear exit strategy, expected returns, and a timeline for cashing out. It's likely a good idea to provide five-year profitability forecasts and realistic financial estimates.

2 Types of Business Plans

Business plans can vary in format, often categorized into traditional and lean startup plans. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) , the traditional business plan is the more common of the two.

• Traditional business plans : These are detailed and lengthy, requiring more effort to create but offering comprehensive information that can be persuasive to potential investors.
• Lean startup business plans : These are concise, sometimes just one page, and focus on key elements. While they save time, companies should be ready to provide additional details if requested by investors or lenders.

Why Do Business Plans Fail?

A business plan isn't a surefire recipe for success. The plan may have been unrealistic in its assumptions and projections. Markets and the economy might change in ways that couldn't have been foreseen. A competitor might introduce a revolutionary new product or service. All this calls for building flexibility into your plan, so you can pivot to a new course if needed.

How Often Should a Business Plan Be Updated?

How frequently a business plan needs to be revised will depend on its nature. Updating your business plan is crucial due to changes in external factors (market trends, competition, and regulations) and internal developments (like employee growth and new products). While a well-established business might want to review its plan once a year and make changes if necessary, a new or fast-growing business in a fiercely competitive market might want to revise it more often, such as quarterly.

What Does a Lean Startup Business Plan Include?

The lean startup business plan is ideal for quickly explaining a business, especially for new companies that don't have much information yet. Key sections may include a value proposition , major activities and advantages, resources (staff, intellectual property, and capital), partnerships, customer segments, and revenue sources.

A well-crafted business plan is crucial for any company, whether it's a startup looking for investment or an established business wanting to stay on course. It outlines goals and strategies, boosting a company's chances of securing funding and achieving growth.

As your business and the market change, update your business plan regularly. This keeps it relevant and aligned with your current goals and conditions. Think of your business plan as a living document that evolves with your company, not something carved in stone.

University of Oregon Department of Economics. " Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Business Planning Using Palo Alto's Business Plan Pro ." Eason Ding & Tim Hursey.

Bplans. " Do You Need a Business Plan? Scientific Research Says Yes ."

Harvard Business Review. " Research: Writing a Business Plan Makes Your Startup More Likely to Succeed ."

Harvard Business Review. " How to Write a Winning Business Plan ."

U.S. Small Business Administration. " Write Your Business Plan ."

SCORE. " When and Why Should You Review Your Business Plan? "

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Business Plan Format Guide

A comprehensive business plan format guide. a full guide to the business plan contents including the standard business plan format for these 10 basic elements: the overview, executive summary; general company description; the opportunity; industry and market; your strategy; the team; a marketing plan; operational plan; financial plan and the appendix..

Related Topics

7 steps to a perfectly written business plan.

When it comes to a business plan format , there are ten basic elements that must be covered when writing a business plan.

The standard contents of a business plan includes:

• an overview
• executive summary
• general company description
• the opportunity
• industry and market
• your strategy
• a marketing plan
• operational plan
• financial plan
• an appendix.

What to Include in Your Business Plan

Before you physically start writing your business plan, you need to spend some time doing in-depth research into your industry and market. This is important regardless of whether you have previous experience in that particular industry.

You can use the Internet, industry experts and associations, suppliers and existing competitors for the information. Your research will help you in putting the business plan together as it will give you an understanding of the dynamics and forces affecting the industry.

All sections in the business plan format are interrelated, and cannot be written in isolation. Each should be written by people who are fully aware of the contents and intricacies of the other areas of the plan so that the different sections are all integrated.

The best option is to write the plan yourself as you know your business best. Also, if you are responsible for writing the business plan, you could identify certain challenges and find solutions to them, it will also ensure that you know every single aspect of the business, which is critical when meeting with potential investors.

You may need assistance putting together the financial information if you don’t have a financial background, but make sure you get an accountant to explain what all the figures mean. Although there is a fairly well accepted structure for a business plan format , there are many ways of putting it down on paper.

There are three primary parts of a business plan :

• The Business concept
• The Marketplace section
• The Financial section.

Some of the contents will have different names and be presented in a different order but almost any business plan will cover these broad areas:

Business Plan Format Contents

Table of contents.

Your contents page should be the very last thing you write to ensure that all the page numbers are correct. Make sure that you number your pages correctly so that a person can quickly and easily find the sections they are interested in. _

The following 10 sections need to be included in your business plan – click on each section to find out more:

• Executive Summary
• General Company Description
• The Opportunity, Industry & Market Description
• Business Model Explanation
• Team: Management & Organisation
• Marketing Plan
• Operational Plan
• Financial Plan

Greg Fisher

A master of strategy, Greg Fisher is a Professor in the Management and Entrepreneurship Department at the Kelley School of Business , Indiana University and is also a visiting lecturer at the Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS) in South Africa and at the SKK Graduate School of Business in South Korea. He teaches in the areas of strategy and entrepreneurship and he has won teaching awards at Indiana University, the University of Washington and GIBS. He holds a Ph.D. in Entrepreneurship and Strategy from the University of Washington in Seattle and an MBA from GIBS. Greg Fisher was named on The List of the ‘40 Most Outstanding Business School Professors under 40’ in the USA in 2014 and in 2016 he was named among the ‘Favorite Business School Professors Teaching MBAs’. He teaches in the areas of strategy and entrepreneurship and he has won teaching awards at Indiana University, the University of Washington and GIBS. He holds a Ph.D. in Entrepreneurship and Strategy from the University of Washington in Seattle and an MBA from GIBS. Greg Fisher was named on The List of the ‘40 Most Outstanding Business School Professors under 40’ in the USA in 2014 and in 2016 he was named among the ‘Favorite Business School Professors Teaching MBAs’.

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Business Plan Contents Page: Everything You Need to Know

A business plan contents page will cover the important topics that should be included in a business plan. 3 min read updated on September 19, 2022

A business plan contents page will cover the important topics that should be included in a business plan. A business plan is a strategy for how the business will operate and can also be utilized for the marketing and production of a new product or service. The strategy will look to the future and attempt to figure out what the company or product will be like. A business plan also serves the following purposes:

• Make financial projections
• Establish a budget
• Determine and calculate risk
• Strategize on how to manage risk
• Predict how money will be spent
• Predict how revenue will be earned
• Prioritization of business goals
• Label main assumptions

A business plan should be utilized for any type of company , whether it is a small business or a nonprofit. The type of company will determine what elements should be present in the business plan.

Startups often rely heavily on financial support from investors. Established companies that have been achieving their goals will indicate similar content in their business plan. The business plan, in these cases, is designed to illustrate to investors the following information:

• Good business leads
• Competency of employees
• Employee comprehension of product, the market, and competitors
• Thorough planning and company strategy
• Forecasted investor returns

A company that has not been performing as anticipated should cover these topics in the development of a business plan :

• The company understands why they have performed poorly
• The company has developed a promising game plan on how to improve
• The company the resources and skill to carry out the new game plan

A government agency or nonprofit organization will have a similar business plan to that of a business that offers a service or sells a product. Government agencies and nonprofits also offer a service to a specific market or customer base and must operate within a strict budget. Like a startup that relies on investor dollars, these organizations must find funding to offset the cost of expenses.

Business Case

People are often confused by how a business plan and business case are different and how they work together. Simply put, the business plan is an overview of the company, while the business case focuses on a single action and its consequences. The business case will answer questions such as, what will be the likely financial consequences for choosing this versus that? What are the crucial non-financial results of either choice? Can you rationalize this investment?

To better understand the differences, take a look at the following examples:

• The business plan will predict performance, especially financially. The business case will predict financial and non-financial impacts of a particular action.
• The business plan focuses on the company goals. The business case focuses on the company goals for a specific step and the results of said step.
• The business plan centers on the business model, including company earnings, anticipated market, and competitor behavior. The business case centers on the earnings, market, and competitor behavior of an action.
• The business plan assesses overall performance in sales, margins, and profits. The business case assesses specific fiscal metrics, such as the return of investment or net present value. A business case also assesses the non-fiscal results.

The business plan follows a specific format that is divided into three main sections : the business concept, marketplace, and finances.

Begin with the cover page. The cover page must include the company name, logo, contact person, address, phone number, date of incorporation, state of incorporation, and a confidentiality and nondisclosure statement. The table of contents should include all the sections of the business plan and what page to find a certain section.

Following the table of contents will be the executive summary. This will be the first section read, so ensure that it stands out and is strongly written. The executive summary will describe the company and determine what stage the company is currently in. Also, include details about the company's strategy, customer base, marketing efforts, the background of the management team, and expected revenue and profits.

The body of the plan should include the following sections: background and purpose, market analysis, product or service development, marketing, financial data, organization structure and management, ownership, risk factors, and the conclusion. Each of these sections will include additional subsections where further details can be discussed. A table of appendices, referencing back to key concepts, will be the last section of the business plan.

If you need help developing your business plan contents, you can post your job on UpCounsel's marketplace. UpCounsel accepts only the top 5 percent of lawyers to its site. Lawyers on UpCounsel come from law schools such as Harvard Law and Yale Law and average 14 years of legal experience, including work with or on behalf of companies like Google, Menlo Ventures, and Airbnb.

Hire the top business lawyers and save up to 60% on legal fees

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• Creating a Business Plan
• Contents of a Business Plan
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• Sample of a Good Business Plan
• How to Make a Business Plan Format
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Free PDF Business Plan Templates and Samples

By Joe Weller | September 9, 2020

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We’ve gathered the most useful collection of business plan PDF templates and samples, including options for organizations of any size and type.

On this page, you’ll find free PDF templates for a simple business plan , small business plan , startup business plan , and more.

Simple Business Plan PDF Templates

These simple business plan PDF templates are ready to use and customizable to fit the needs of any organization.

Simple Business Plan Template PDF

This template contains a traditional business plan layout to help you map out each aspect, from a company overview to sales projections and a marketing strategy. This template includes a table of contents, as well as space for financing details that startups looking for funding may need to provide. 

Download Simple Business Plan Template - PDF

Lean Business Plan Template PDF

This scannable business plan template allows you to easily identify the most important elements of your plan. Use this template to outline key details pertaining to your business and industry, product or service offerings, target customer segments (and channels to reach them), and to identify sources of revenue. There is also space to include key performance metrics and a timeline of activities. 

Download Lean Business Plan Template - PDF

Simple 30-60-90 Day Business Plan Template PDF

This template is designed to help you develop and implement a 90-day business plan by breaking it down into manageable chunks of time. Use the space provided to detail your main goals and deliverables for each timeframe, and then add the steps necessary to achieve your objectives. Assign task ownership and enter deadlines to ensure your plan stays on track every step of the way.

Download Simple 30-60-90 Day Business Plan Template

PDF | Smartsheet

One-Page Business Plan PDF Templates

The following single page business plan templates are designed to help you download your key ideas on paper, and can be used to create a pitch document to gain buy-in from partners, investors, and stakeholders.

One-Page Business Plan Template PDF

Use this one-page template to summarize each aspect of your business concept in a clear and concise manner. Define the who, what, why, and how of your idea, and use the space at the bottom to create a SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) for your business. 

Download One-Page Business Plan Template

If you’re looking for a specific type of analysis, check out our collection of SWOT templates .

One-Page Lean Business Plan PDF

This one-page business plan template employs the Lean management concept, and encourages you to focus on the key assumptions of your business idea. A Lean plan is not stagnant, so update it as goals and objectives change — the visual timeline at the bottom is ideal for detailing milestones. 

Download One-Page Lean Business Plan Template - PDF

One-Page 30-60-90 Day Business Plan Template

Use this business plan template to identify main goals and outline the necessary activities to achieve those goals in 30, 60, and 90-day increments. Easily customize this template to fit your needs while you track the status of each task and goal to keep your business plan on target. 

Download One-Page 30-60-90 Day Business Plan Template

For additional single page plans, including an example of a one-page business plan , visit " One-Page Business Plan Templates with a Quick How-To Guide ."

Small Business Plan PDF Templates

These business plan templates are useful for small businesses that want to map out a way to meet organizational objectives, including how to structure, operate, and expand their business.

Simple Small Business Plan Template PDF

A small business can use this template to outline each critical component of a business plan. There is space to provide details about product or service offerings, target audience, customer reach strategy, competitive advantage, and more. Plus, there is space at the bottom of the document to include a SWOT analysis. Once complete, you can use the template as a basis to build out a more elaborate plan. 

Download Simple Small Business Plan Template

Fill-In-the-Blank Small Business Plan Template PDF

This fill-in-the-blank template walks you through each section of a business plan. Build upon the fill-in-the-blank content provided in each section to add information about your company, business idea, market analysis, implementation plan, timeline of milestones, and much more.

Download Fill-In-the-Blank Small Business Plan Template - PDF

One-Page Small Business Plan Template PDF

Use this one-page template to create a scannable business plan that highlights the most essential parts of your organization’s strategy. Provide your business overview and management team details at the top, and then outline the target market, market size, competitive offerings, key objectives and success metrics, financial plan, and more.

Download One-Page Business Plan for Small Business - PDF

Startup Business Plan PDF Templates

Startups can use these business plan templates to check the feasibility of their idea, and articulate their vision to potential investors.

Startup Business Plan Template

Use this business plan template to organize and prepare each essential component of your startup plan. Outline key details relevant to your concept and organization, including your mission and vision statement, product or services offered, pricing structure, marketing strategy, financial plan, and more.

‌Download Startup Business Plan Template

Sample 30-60-90 Day Business Plan for Startup

Startups can use this sample 30-60-90 day plan to establish main goals and deliverables spanning a 90-day period. Customize the sample goals, deliverables, and activities provided on this template according to the needs of your business. Then, assign task owners and set due dates to help ensure your 90-day plan stays on track.

‌Download Sample 30-60-90 Day Business Plan for Startup Template 

For additional resources to create your plan, visit “ Free Startup Business Plan Templates and Examples .”

Nonprofit Business Plan PDF Templates

Use these business plan PDF templates to outline your organization’s mission, your plan to make a positive impact in your community, and the steps you will take to achieve your nonprofit’s goals.

Nonprofit Business Plan Template PDF

Use this customizable PDF template to develop a plan that details your organization’s purpose, objectives, and strategy. This template features a table of contents, with room to include your nonprofit’s mission and vision, key team and board members, program offerings, a market and industry analysis, promotional plan, financial plan, and more. This template also contains a visual timeline to display historic and future milestones.

Download Nonprofit Business Plan Template - PDF

One-Page Business Plan for Nonprofit Organization PDF 

This one-page plan serves as a good starting point for established and startup nonprofit organizations to jot down their fundamental goals and objectives. This template contains all the essential aspects of a business plan in a concise and scannable format, including the organizational overview, purpose, promotional plan, key objectives and success metrics, fundraising goals, and more.

Download One-Page Business Plan for Nonprofit Organization Template - PDF

Fill-In-the-Blank Business Plan PDF Templates

Use these fill-in-the-blank templates as a foundation for creating a comprehensive roadmap that aligns your business strategy with your marketing, sales, and financial goals.

Simple Fill-In-the-Blank Business Plan PDF

The fill-in-the-blank template contains all the vital parts of a business plan, with sample content that you can customize to fit your needs. There is room to include an executive summary, business description, market analysis, marketing plan, operations plan, financial statements, and more. 

Download Simple Fill-In-the-Blank Business Plan Template - PDF

Lean Fill-In-the-Blank Business Plan PDF

This business plan is designed with a Lean approach that encourages you to clarify and communicate your business idea in a clear and concise manner. This single page fill-in-the-blank template includes space to provide details about your management team, the problem you're solving, the solution, target customers, cost structure, and revenue streams. Use the timeline at the bottom to produce a visual illustration of key milestones. 

Download Fill-In-the-Blank Lean Business Plan Template - PDF

For additional resources, take a look at " Free Fill-In-the-Blank Business Plan Templates ."

Sample Business Plan PDF Templates

These sample business plan PDF templates can help you to develop an organized, thorough, and professional business plan.

Business Plan Sample 

This business plan example demonstrates a plan for a fictional food truck company. The sample includes all of the elements in a traditional business plan, which makes it a useful starting point for developing a plan specific to your business needs.

Download Basic Business Plan Sample - PDF

Sample Business Plan Outline Template

Use this sample outline as a starting point for your business plan. Shorten or expand the outline depending on your organization’s needs, and use it to develop a table of contents for your finalized plan.

Download Sample Business Plan Outline Template - PDF

Sample Business Financial Plan Template

Use this sample template to develop the financial portion of your business plan. The template provides space to include a financial overview, key assumptions, financial indicators, and business ratios. Complete the break-even analysis and add your financial statements to help prove the viability of your organization’s business plan.

Download Business Financial Plan Template

PDF  | Smartsheet

For more free, downloadable templates for all aspects of your business, check out “ Free Business Templates for Organizations of All Sizes .”

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How to Write a Business Plan Outline

A step-by-step guide to your best first impression

Susan Ward wrote about small businesses for The Balance for 18 years. She has run an IT consulting firm and designed and presented courses on how to promote small businesses.

Business Plan Outline

• Organize Your Business Plan
• Title Page and Table of Contents
• Appearance Matters

Adrian Mangel / The Balance

Are you an entrepreneur looking to turn your idea into a business? Do you have a business plan? There is some debate about whether new businesses need a business plan when just starting out, especially if they're not asking for money. According to Carl Schramm, author of "Burn the Business Plan," many large corporations didn't have business plans when they first started:

"If you look at all our older major corporations—U.S. Steel, General Electric, IBM, American Airlines—and then you look at our newer companies like Amazon, Apple, Facebook, Microsoft, none of these companies ever had a business plan before they got started."

The U.S. Small Business Administration takes a middle-of-the-road approach, recognizing that not all businesses need a comprehensive plan. Instead, it suggests that smaller businesses and startups use a "leaner" and more streamlined version to outline the essentials and highlight strengths. Lean or long, your business plan should cover the basics.

The outline below offers a brief overview of what each section of your business plan should cover. It is not a definitive guide, as you may wish to expand or combine sections, or add extra detail in a way that is customized to your particular venture. Keep in mind the idea is to present your venture in the most attractive and professional way possible.

Executive Summary

Though it appears first in the business plan, the executive summary is a section that is usually written last, as it encapsulates the entire plan. It provides an introduction and high-level overview of your business, including your mission statement and details about what product(s) and/or service(s) you offer.

Since the executive summary is your business's first impression, it's critical that it be outstanding, especially if you're seeking funding.

Business Description

Provide information about the business you're starting, including what sort of problem your products/services solve and your most likely buyers. You can also expand this description by offering an overview of the industry that your business will be a part of, including trends, major players, and estimated sales. This section should give a positive perspective on your place within the industry. Set your business apart from the competition by describing your or your team's expertise, as well as your competitive advantage.

Market Analysis

The market analysis is a crucial section of the business plan, as it identifies your best customers or clients. To create a compelling market analysis, thoroughly research the primary target market for your products/services, including geographic location, demographics, your target market's needs, and how these needs are currently being met. Your purpose here is to demonstrate that you have a solid and thorough understanding of the people you are planning to sell your products/services to so that you can make informed predictions about how much they might buy, and convince other interested parties.

Competitive Analysis

In preparing to write the competitive analysis section, you'll learn how successful your direct and indirect competitors are in the marketplace. This section of your business plan includes an assessment of your competition's strengths and weaknesses, any advantages they may have, and the unique qualities that make your business stand out from the competition. It also includes an analysis of how you will overcome any barriers to entry in your chosen market.

The primary goal here is to distinguish your business from the competition, but a strong competitive analysis will be able to persuade potential funding sources that your business can compete in the marketplace successfully . A useful tool to help articulate this section of the plan is sometimes referred to as a SWOT analysis, or a "Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats" assessment.

Sales and Marketing Plan

The sales and marketing section offers a detailed explanation of your sales strategy, pricing plan, proposed advertising and promotion activities, and all the benefits of your products/services. This is where to outline your business's unique selling proposition, describe how you plan to get your products/services to market, and how you'll persuade people to buy them.

When developing your unique selling proposition, your goal is to answer the question: Why should people buy from me over my competition?

Ownership and Management Plan

This section outlines your business's legal structure and management resources, including the internal management team, external management resources, and human resources needs. Include any experience or special skills that each person in your management team brings to the business. If the goal of your business plan is to get funding, it's wise to include an advisory board as a management resource.

Operating Plan

The operating plan offers detailed information about how your business will be run. It provides your business's physical location, descriptions of facilities and equipment, types of employees needed, inventory requirements, suppliers, and any other applicable operating details that pertain to your precise type of business, such as a description of the manufacturing process, or specialty items needed in day-to-day operations.

Financial Plan

Starting a business is usually about making a profit, so it's important to demonstrate that you have a solid sense of your current finances, funding needs, as well as projected income. In the financial section , provide a description of your funding requirements, your detailed financial statements, and a financial statement analysis. This part of the business plan is where you present the three main financial documents of any business: the balance sheet, the income statement, and the cash flow statement, or in the case of a new business, a cash flow projection.

Appendices and Exhibits

In addition to the sections outlined above, at the end of your business plan, include any additional information that will help establish the credibility of your business idea, or bolster your potential success. You may choose to include marketing studies, photographs of your product, permits, patents and other intellectual property rights, credit histories, résumés, marketing materials, and any contracts or other legal agreements pertinent to your business.

How to Organize Your Business Plan

There is no set order to your business plan, the only exception being that the executive summary should always come first. Beyond that, the order depends on your goals.

If your purpose for writing a business plan is to help you organize, gather information, and create a roadmap, organize it in the way that is most intuitive to your process. You might group similar content together, such as all the material relating to markets (industry overview, marketing analysis, competitive analysis, and marketing plan).

If your goal is to seek funding, organize the plan based on what your audience values, and lead with the best, most convincing material first. If you have a stellar group of people serving on your new business's advisory board, put that section directly after the executive summary. Highlighting your new business's strengths will encourage your reader to continue reading your plan.

Add a Title Page and Table of Contents

After completing all the sections, don't forget to insert a title page at the beginning of the plan followed by a table of contents listing each section with page numbers.

The Appearance of Your Business Plan Matters

If you're writing a business plan as an organizational exercise—for your eyes only—feel free to get loose with the style and organization; the simple act of putting all your ideas into a practical template may be a valuable brainstorming tool. However, if you're looking for funding or investors, the business plan is a formal document, so it should look like one. Every aspect of your business plan should impress your potential funding source.

Pay attention to margins and formatting; make sure it's spell-checked and grammatically sound. If you're not good at this, pay a professional to do it.

Hiring a professional to design, edit, or review your business plan may be a good idea, regardless of how skilled you are; a fresh pair of eyes can often spot issues that the original writer missed.

If you need printed copies, get them professionally printed and bound. Keep in mind that you may only have a short amount of time to sell your idea, and first impressions pack a powerful punch.

How Long Should a Business Plan Be?

A good business plan can't be pinned to a minimum or maximum page count. This is because the right length depends on your business. Your business plan should be brief enough to convey the essentials without redundancy or fluff content, yet long enough to demonstrate to your audience that your business is well-researched and fully considered. A simple plan for a modest startup might be around 40 pages, while a more complex business plan may need 100 pages to convey an ambitious financing strategy, product diagrams, industry data, or the full scope of the venture. The goal is to allow for a full explanation of the pertinent information about your business, presented in a concise and well-organized fashion.

Knowledge@Wharton. " Why Creating a Business Plan Is a ‘Waste of Time’ ."

U.S. Small Business Administration. " Write Your Business Plan ."

Corporate Finance Institute. " Barriers to Entry ."

U.S. Small Business Administration. " SBA Recommended Business Plans and Length ."

Simple Business Plan Table of Contents Template

Unleash your creativity and structure your business vision with our simple Plan Template.

• Design style modern
• Colors light
• Size Letter (8.5 x 11 in)
• File type PNG, PDF, PowerPoint

Presenting the Simple Business Plan Table of Contents Template - your ideal partner in crafting a seamless and comprehensive business plan. This template is primed to help you highlight all the necessary areas of your business plan in a well-structured manner. It is ripe and ready for you to customize to your preferences. Add some splash of colors, modify the sizes, or even incorporate visually appealing photos or icons from our free stock libraries on Venngage to bring your business plan to life. Utilize this template to effectively promote your plan and ensure every detail gets the attention it deserves. Start creating your ideal design with us today!

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40 Professional Table of Contents Templates [2024 Update]

Written by: Orana Velarde

Are you creating a document or writing a report , and you’re stuck on the Table of Contents page? Does your Word document look more boring than ever?

In general, most tables of contents pages are dull and uneventful, but they don’t need to be that way. Visme's custom table of contents templates is here to save the day.

In this guide, we’ve collected 40 different template designs for Table of Contents pages. All templates in the list below are part of multipage documents and printable templates in Visme .

Forget the boring Word templates, and you’ll find what you need here, from many free tables of contents templates to the more premium offerings.

Click on the category that interests you in the list below, or scroll until you find a template that works for you.

Let’s get started!

Here's a short selection of 8 easy-to-edit Table of contents templates you can edit, share and download with Visme. View more below:

40 Table of Contents Templates for Various Documents

What does a table of contents do, category #1: table of contents for business plans, category #2: table of contents for marketing plans, category #3: table of contents for proposals, category #4: table of contents for ebooks, category #5: table of contents for white papers, category #6: table of contents for reports.

• Category #7: Table of Contents for Brand Guidelines
• Category #8: Table of Contents for Employee Handbooks
• Category #9: Table of Contents for Lead Magnets

Table of Contents FAQs

Just in case you need some help designing your document, here's a tutorial video that will show you how to make a marketing plan with Visme.

• A Table of Contents is typically placed immediately after the title page to provide readers with an overview of the document's contents and their corresponding page numbers.
• A well-structured table of contents should have a clear and concise title, section headers with corresponding page numbers and a hierarchical structure that is easy to navigate.
• In this article, we have shared a Table of Contents for business plans, marketing plans, proposals, ebooks, whitepapers, reports, whitepapers, brand guidelines, employee handbooks and lead magnets.
• All the templates listed here are included in multi-page editable document templates available in the Visme template library . If you found the table of contents templates appealing, you will be thrilled with the complete templates across different categories such as reports , plans , proposals , ebooks , whitepapers , case studies , training manuals and other document types .

Every document with more than four or five pages benefits from having a table of contents. This page is placed immediately after the title page to inform the readers what they can expect to find inside the document and on which page.

A good table of contents includes a title header, a list of sections and page numbers that show levels of hierarchy. A great table of contents includes a design element that unites it to the cover page and the rest of the document.

For digital PDF documents, the table of contents should be interactive. Each list item links to its page, making navigation easier for readers. Including a home tab on every page to take readers back to the table of contents will add even more value.

Regardless if you’re looking for design ideas for your table of contents or maybe a customizable template, we’ve got your back.

Let’s dive into our selection of table of content examples.

Business Plans are documents that showcase a specific plan for a business. It can be an overarching plan or a particular project plan . These include pages like goals, projections and timelines .

Here are some table of contents templates for business plans.

Template #1: SaaS Business Plan

This SaaS business plan table of content template has a white background with purple accents. It’s a minimal design in a bullet point format. The heading text in this template is in a vertical layout, while the table of contents has good spacing around it.

Use this template for a document with a simple design with a pop of color. It’ll fit into the business plan it belongs to or other documents like it.

Template #2: Startup Business Plan

The table of contents in the startup business plan uses a color block design to showcase the section titles. The section numbers are orange over dark gray, making them pop.

Pitch your startup business plan in style with this customizable document template. Or, just use the table of contents for any other document you're creating.

Template #3: Fashion Business Plan

Are you in search for a sleek design that looks elegant and professional? Look no further than this fashion business plan.

The table of contents template in this document is center-aligned over a black background. Thin vertical lines complete the design, creating a visual hierarchy of elements.

Choose the fashion business plan if you want to impress the reader with a professional and timeless design.

Template #4: Consulting Business Plan

This table of contents template takes a fresh approach with a list of sections separated into color into two columns separated by a thin and lengthy arrow point downwards.

The consultancy business plan as a whole is friendly and approachable and is perfect for any business looking to attract high-end clients.

Template #5: Restaurant Business Plan

This table of contents page uses a unique layout style with an inviting image of food in a circular frame. The sections in this design include the word ‘page’ with each corresponding number.

Use this template if you’re looking for an elegant, modern design that appeals to the senses. Update this table of contents easily by copying from your Word document into your Visme project.

Next up on our list are tables of contents for marketing plans . These are for documents that detail a specific marketing plan for your business, such as explaining how you plan to tackle social media or emails after visualizing your target market and ideal audience.

Create your marketing plan with a professional table of contents easily with Visme templates. Let’s dive in.

Template #1: Social Media Marketing Plan

The social media marketing plan template has a fun and colorful layout. The thin pink line to the left unifies all the elements, creating a flowing visual hierarchy. The contents are listed at the top of the page over a collage of images.

Customize this template easily with your images and colors.

Template #2: Real Estate Marketing Plan

This clean-cut table of contents design uses a different style of layout. Instead of a list, the sections are organized as items on a grid. Moving away from the usual, this table of contents template will surely make an impact.

Swap the background image with one that fits your business better, or change for a background pattern or color .

Template #3: Marketing Communication Plan

Large numbers make this table of contents template stand out. The section titles are displayed in all caps, further emphasizing the hierarchy. The design of interlocking circles continues throughout all the pages of this template for a fresh, artistic feel.

For a digital design, add a relevant hyperlink to both the number and the section title.

Template #4: Digital Marketing Plan

Here’s another table of contents template with a grid design. This one goes one step further and uses yellow gradients for each item’s background. The minimalistic image at the top is a supporting element that helps the yellow squares shine.

Use this template with your colors by replacing the yellow with a six-layer gradient of your brand color.

Template #5: Restaurant Marketing Plan

This template is all about vertical layouts and color columns. The pink color block holds the section numbers while the section titles are aligned over the white. It's simple and to the point, with minimal customization needed.

Use this versatile table of contents template with any document design that uses color blocks. Then, simply save it to your custom block library.

A well-designed proposal makes a positive impression towards the reader accepting what you propose. Including a table of contents that’s inviting and approachable will help the readers navigate your document easily.

When sharing a PDF version of your proposal, make sure to hyperlink the table of contents to their corresponding pages. Include a back to ToC button on every page so readers don’t get lost.

Template #1: Roofing Proposal

Like other table of contents layouts on our list, this one uses a vertical block of color but replaces the solid color with a bold image. This image repeats throughout the proposal as a unifying element.

The section titles and numbers are center-aligned on the right panel, with the numbers using a zero instead of single digits. This design will help if you have more than ten sections to list and don’t want to lose the visual balance.

Template #2: Insurance Proposal

This sleek table of contents template uses contrasting colors and circles for the section numbers and light lettering for the section titles. The layout is standard but uses unique visual elements that stand out.

Easily customize this template with your brand colors and fonts. Then, for heightened productivity, use the whole template and save it as a brand template when finished. This way, your team will use the brand proposal and customize it accordingly for every new client.

Template #3: Documentary Proposal

This table of contents template is fresh and colorful — well-balanced contrasting colors make the page stand out. You can easily swap the film icon for an element that matches your business or project. The background can also be replaced with one that’s more suited to your brand.

If you have trouble finding heading styles for your table of contents, take a look at other templates on this list or use one of our pre-design header blocks.

Template #4: Grant Proposal

Part of securing a grant is making a good impression with your proposal. This elegant and minimalistic table of contents design showcases the section titles with a half arrow instead of numbers.

Use this template if you’re looking for a professional and clean-cut design that’s impactful and inviting.

Template #5: Real Estate Investment Proposal

This table of contents template is a bit different from the others. The layout is unique and exciting, with a pop of neon as the page number that repeats on every document page.

Although a design like this works well with the other pages in the same template, it won’t match different document templates.

Easily the most common lead magnet in content marketing and blogging, eBooks also need a table of contents page. Since eBooks are generally longer than proposals or reports, the ToC layout needs to be slightly different to fit more section titles and numbers.

Let’s take a look at the available eBook table of contents templates available in Visme.

Template #1: WordPress eBook

Longer eBooks usually have a higher number of sections or chapters; therefore, they need a table of contents that can handle more listed items. To save space, this table of contents template uses a vertical title design.

This design is versatile and highly customizable, and will fit right in with other eBook templates if you wish to mix and match.

Template #2: The Future of Event Marketing eBook

Simplicity never goes unnoticed. This minimalistic table of contents template might seem like a standard layout except that the section numbers and section titles have a wide gap between them.

This minimalistic design solution makes the page stand out while also keeping it sleek and non-conforming.

Template #3: Graphic Design eBook

This table of contents example is separated into two visual sections; a top image header and a list on the bottom half. The numbers are encased inside a colored rectangle, creating a visual hierarchy for the section list.

Use this eBook table of contents template if you have no more than ten sections. Alternatively, you can shrink the top image header to fit more section items.

Template #4: Environmental Protection eBook

This table of contents template has a frame design that makes the white area stand out. The background image is repeated from the cover to create a harmonious balance between pages.

Use this template with a dark photography background so the inside block is more noticeable.

Template #5: HR eBook

Here, we have another unique layout design with a diagonal grid. In this case, the item squares are supported with images and gray triangles for better visual flow. The two-toned vertical line on the right completes the layout. Customize this template easily with your brand colors and fonts.

If you’re running out of time and need to create your ebook quickly, take advantage of our AI Document Generator to generate professional-looking ebooks in minutes. Simply provide information about the type of ebook you want to create, select your design style and let the tool do the rest.

The difference between an eBook and a brand is the audience. The former includes easily skimmable information for non-experts, while the latter is mostly an in-depth report of expert information relayed to professionals in a certain field.

White papers are similar to research papers , and sometimes there’s an overlap between the two styles. Our template library has many options, no matter which side of the spectrum your document stands on.

Since white papers also have many pages, they need a table of contents page. Let’s look at the table of contents examples you have access to in your Visme dashboard.

Template #1: Environmental White Paper

This table of contents template design includes a colored column containing all the content. A two-color line on the right of the page continues throughout the entire template.

If you are using this template with another document design, we suggest you remove that line. Or, use the white paper document template in its entirety and simply modify the content inside.

Template #2: Public Health Awareness White Paper

If you’re looking for a table of contents template that makes an impact, look no further than this public health awareness white paper template. The black background, red splatter and white text of this table of contents page create great visual contrast.

Easily customize this template with your choice of colors and fonts. Then, copy the text from your Word document or Google Docs file.

Template #3: Tackling a Social Problem White Paper

Dark backgrounds with a pop of bright color are always a great idea when you’re looking to make a statement. This table of contents template is no different. The layout includes a narrow image column on the left and the contents list aligned to the left for a unique visual approach.

If you have bright and contrasting colors in your branding, this template design will fit right in.

Template #4: Social Media Privacy Concern White Paper

This example is another framed design for a table of contents page. The background is an image at the top and soft gray on the bottom two-thirds. The yellow rectangle that contains the content keeps everything orderly and easy to navigate.

Select this template and save it as a custom content block; then you can use it on any of your multipage document projects.

Template #5: Levels of Arsenic Contamination in Water White Paper

Vertical columns with images are a great framing option for a table of contents that would otherwise look boring and uneventful. This particular design uses line separations between section titles, resembling a table layout.

Easily customize this template with your fonts, images and a semi-transparent background of your lightest brand color.

The last category on our list of table of contents template inspiration is for reports. One of the most common and widely used document projects, reports come in all sizes and styles . As long as they have more than three pages, they’ll need a table of contents.

Keep scrolling to browse table of contents examples for reports, all available to customize and download inside your Visme dashboard.

Template #1: Market Research Report

This colorful table of contents template includes unique rounded shapes as a visual element plus a cutout tiger framing the content list. The contrasting colors make this layout eye-catching and exciting.

For your project, replace the tiger with another cutout element that better matches your content and message. Keep the formatting of the colored shapes for a unique visual feature.

And if you’re struggling to create an outline for your report, use Visme’s AI writer to generate a draft outline, create unique copy or proofread your report.

Template #2: Inspection Report

This table of contents template uses a two-tone color overlay on a photo. The contrasting color overlays create a separation between header and subsections. For example, the bright pop of orange stands out from the dark blue making it easier to skim the sections.

Further into this report template, you’ll be able to import data from Excel, Google Sheets or Google Analytics.

Template #3: Technical Report

The overall design of this report template uses a three-shape concept that repeats from page to page. In part, the arrow directs the reader to the rest of the document from the table of contents page, creating a guiding line.

Select this colorful table of contents template, especially if you plan to use the report template in its entirety. Each page complements the other for a coherent feel.

Template #4: Sales Calls Report

When it comes to branded templates , this is a great example. The decorative design on the side of this table of contents layout is a logo repeated as a pattern.

To use this printable table of contents template for your brand, follow the suggested format and replace each placeholder logo with your own. Upload a high-quality PNG image with transparent background to achieve the effect.

The top right corner detail is repeated on each report page, creating a union between the table of contents and each page of the document.

Template #5: Green Annual Nonprofit Report

This full-color page design lays out the content aligned to the left. The arrows on the left create flow for the rest of the page. It's not as contrasting as other designs, but still very striking and impactful.

Use your bold brand color in the background and change the fonts to your own.

When it comes to creating report, Visme’s AI Report Writer makes it a breeze. Just input a prompt describing what you want to create, choose your preferred design and let the tool do the heavy lifting.

Category #7: Table of Content for Brand Guidelines

Brand guidelines are rules that govern how you communicate your brand. They determine the overall design, look and feel of brand elements, including voice, logos, colors and typography.

Template # 1: Marketing Consultancy Firm Brand Guidelines

This table of content template features a rich blend of images, colors and icons to create a strong visual impression.

The content page design is split into three unequal parts. The left block contains a high-quality image, while the title and number list sit pretty on the right block. The dark blue background and white and sky-blue fonts create a strong visual contrast, making the text readable.

The third block has a sky blue background and a white call-out icon that ushers readers into the rest of the document. Feel free to replace text, images, fonts and colors to make this template your own.

Template #2: Software Company Brand Guidelines

Are you looking for a table of content examples with captivating and professional design? Look no further. This template is a perfect fit.

This template has a white background, lined with a soft blue accent at the top and a gray accent at the bottom. The critical sections of the document are listed in an arrow-shaped bullet format along with page numbers.

This table of contents template can be customized and used for other documents. You can edit content, apply custom colors, change images and upload your company logo.

Template #3: Interior Design Company Brand Guidelines

This table of contents template has a unique layout, a dark green background and a brightly colored font. The title occupies the top part of the page, followed by a centered image in an oval frame. Below the image, you'll find the numbered list of sections separated into two columns.

This striking design concept gives your documents an elegant feel, making them ideal for any creative or design project. You can use your visuals or select from Visme's rich image and design library.

Category 8: Table of Contents for Employee Handbooks

An employee handbook can be a vital onboarding resource for your company. You can use it to educate employees about your company's policies, culture and code of ethics.

Template # 1: Institute Employee Handbook

Give your audience a brief rundown of your handbook using this stunning table of content example. The template has an eye-catching design layout. The numbered list is left aligned on a bright red background while the text creates a strong visual contrast.

Use this template with your brand style and colors. Replace the logo with your own and your document is ready for download.

Template # 2: MGAccounts Employee Handbook

This template's striking layout design and color combination make your document come alive. The contents are listed at the top of the page. Below the content is a gorgeous black and white image

The arrangement and image contrast draw the viewer in and guide their gaze throughout the design. Swap the template logo, color and images with elements that match your brand identity.

Template #3: Topflix Employee Handbook

This is another example of a template with a numbered list design. This table of contents page uses a multicolored background, making the visuals and design elements stand out. It features the logo and title at the top and an image right at the center of the page. The numbered list is written in small beautiful fonts, right under the image.

Using Visme's editor, you can change the content, list format, fonts and other design elements. Feel free to add your logo and colors to reflect your brand image.

Template #4: Textile Company Employee Handbook

This table of content example uses a symmetrical layout to create a visual balance. On the left, you'll find an image aligned vertically while the contents list is presented in a numbered list and aligned to the right.

You can add hyperlinks to the section titles and page numbers to make your content interactive. Modify the background color and images to match your unique style.

Category 9: Table of Contents for Lead Magnets

A lead magnet is a free and valuable resource that entices potential customers to provide their contact information.

What's in it for you? Lead magnets help you acquire leads and position your brand as an authority in your niche.

Template #1: Digital Marketing Checklist

You can create stunning lead magnets using editable templates like the one below. You can use it to promote your brand or nudge prospects to submit their information.

The table of contents page features bold numbers and section titles displayed in caps. The intersection of multiple bright colors evokes emotions and attracts the reader's attention.

Select your background, color and font style to make your template personal. You can add photos and mix and match elements from Visme's library to make your designs pop.

Template #2: Business Guide Lead

This template has a distinct design and layout. In this case, the numbered content list isn't presented in the conventional vertical format. Instead, the list of sections is embedded in two frames facing each other, with section numbers sitting above the text.

Each frame uses elements that create a solid visual contrast, ensuring the text is visible. You can use fonts, images and colors to suit your unique needs.

Share valuable insights with your audience using this editable document template. Or, you can use the table of contents for any other lead magnet you're creating.

Template #3: Roadmap Lead Magnet Template

Do you want to promote your business or showcase your expertise? This eye-catching lead magnet template is your best bet.

This template arranges the table of content in a grid layout. It also features a compelling image and design that blends with the rest of the document. The orange color fonts on the light background make the text legible.

To increase the impact of your lead magnet, you can download this template and use it as it is. Or customize this design using Visme's intuitive drag and drop template editor.

Feel free to apply a custom color scheme or add new design elements such as elegant fonts, free stock photos and high-quality icons.

Q. What Is a Good Table of Contents Layout?

A good table of contents layout should:

• Use clear headings and subheadings to represent the hierarchy of the document.
• Utilize consistent formatting for each level of the hierarchy. For example, use bold for main headings and italics for subheadings.
• Keep the text aligned, whether it's left-aligned or centered, to maintain a neat appearance.
• Include page numbers aligned with the corresponding sections or headings.
• Use appropriate spacing between entries to enhance readability.
• Use a legible font and an appropriate font size for the text in your table of contents. Consistency
• Have hyperlinks that allow readers to click and navigate directly to the corresponding section.

Q. Can Canva Generate a Table of Contents?

While Canva doesn’t automatically generate a Table of Contents, it provides tools to help you create one manually for any type of document.

Q. What Is the Easiest Way to Create a Table of Contents?

One of the easiest ways to create a Table of Contents is by using Microsoft Word, Google Docs and Visme templates. Most of the document templates in Visme come with a Table of Contents so you can customize it to match your preferred format or style. Visme also provides features to help you build an interactive table of contents and clickable menus.

Q. What Can I Write Instead of a Table of Contents?

If you're considering alternatives to a traditional table of contents, you might explore different ways to guide readers through your document. You can use any of these strategies.

• Include visually appealing thumbnails or images next to each section title
• In digital documents, especially those viewed online, you can include interactive links in the introduction or header that guide readers to specific sections when clicked.
• Create a visual timeline or flowchart that represents the document's structure
• Use icons or symbols next to each section title to represent the content or theme of that section.
• Provide a brief paragraph or bullet points before each major section, summarizing what readers can expect to find in that part of the document.
• Visualize the document's structure as a mind map, presenting the interconnectedness of ideas and topics.
• If you're creating a digital document, consider using dropdown menus or collapsible sections for an interactive and space-efficient way to organize content.
• Instead of a separate section, provide a comprehensive summary or overview at the beginning of the document.
• If your document is technical or contains specific terms, create an index or keyword list that directs readers to relevant sections. Regardless of how you want

Q. How Do You Create a Table of Contents Without Using Headings?

One way to create a table of contents without using headings is to manually create a list of the sections or chapters in your document and their corresponding page numbers. This list can then be placed at the beginning of the document and formatted to resemble a table of contents. Another option is to use bookmarks or hyperlinks to create a clickable table of contents.

To do this, you would first need to select the text you want to include in the table of contents and then create a bookmark or hyperlink for that text. Once all bookmarks or hyperlinks are created, they can be listed in a separate section at the beginning of the document and formatted to resemble a table of contents.

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Budget Model Change FAQs

Table of contents, why are we making changes to the current budget model, what were the major concerns about the current model, does the model need to be changed if the universities of wisconsin receive additional operating funding as requested by the board of regents on august 22, 2024, what was the process around reviewing the budget model, were changes to the model approved, what core principles underlie the budget model, what are the changes to the model, how do these changes support our overall campus strategy, how long will units have to adjust to the new model, how does this model support our research mission, how does the model address disciplines that may have higher cost structures , how does the model address programs or activities that may not be able to cover their costs but which are institutional priorities , when you look at the changes, it appears that lubar college of business, college of community engagement and professions, and college of the arts and architecture will see large increases. why is that , what is the budget model referred to as.

The 2030 action teams called for a review of the current budget model to ensure it is aligned to UWM’s strategic goals; further, UWM had planned on a five-year review of the model launched in 2018 to learn from its experiences in the first several years.

The overall financial context is that UWM has 29% fewer undergraduate students than it did in 2011. Coupled with state funding that has not kept pace with inflation and a decade-long tuition freeze, the result is per-student funding lags far behind our peers. In addition, the number of high school graduates will decline by about 8% between  this academic year and 2034-25 . The new budget model will better position UWM to align our investments and our future with these economic realities, while continuing to serve students and fulfill our research mission.

To do that, the model provides UWM units with clearer incentives to improve enrollment, retention and external funding, thus supporting the university’s strategic goals.

Most concerns around the current budget model were due to its complexity. This made it hard for divisions to determine how revenue would be allocated.

In addition, the current model employs subvention, which adjusts the results of the budget model formula and gives some colleges more money than their activities justify. With no limits on subvention, there was not enough incentive for units to innovate and adapt, especially to improve enrollment and retention.

It also was difficult for divisions to understand how their actions would impact revenue allocation because, essentially, the formula as applied changed each year. Divisions and units want greater stability and predictability in the formula so they can better plan and drive their own futures.

Other concerns centered on divisions’ inability to invest in activities to improve retention and enrollment due to a two-year average that effectively delayed the financial progress they might hope to gain from enrollment and retention gains at the undergraduate level.

The recommended changes to the budget model are necessary regardless of the UWs proposed 2025-2027 biennial operating budget. The proposed changes to the budget model are aligned with the 2030 action plan and the institution’s mission.

There is a long process ahead before we will know whether all or part of the board’s 2025-27 biennial operating budget request will be funded.

Further, if it is funded, UWs plans to use the money for specific priorities, such as student financial aid, compensation increases for faculty and staff, new research priorities such as in the area of artificial intelligence, and inflationary cost increases that would otherwise need to be covered by cuts.

If UWM wishes to change its financial trajectory and make substantial improvements in student success, these budget model changes are also critically needed. 

The project charge was issued in May 2023.  Soon after, Provost Andrew Daire and Sr. Vice Chancellor Robin Van Harpen formed a Budget Model Review Committee. The project was implemented in three phases, with the first phase involving stakeholder feedback (surveys) and meetings with all colleges, Divisional Finance Officers and the Academic Planning and Budget Committee.

The second phase involved:

• Assessing stakeholder feedback,
• Reviewing best practices nationally, including a peer assessment,
• And forming principles to guide proposed changes.

The final phase involved:

• Discussion of options by the committee,
• Feedback sessions with every college, deans, the Academic Planning and Budget Committee, University Committee, Academic Staff Committee and the Divisional Finance Officers from across the institution.

The Budget Model Review Committee met 11 times between June 2023 and July 2024.

Yes. Provost Daire and Sr. Vice Chancellor Van Harpen kept Chancellor Mark Mone apprised of the work of the review committee throughout the process. They presented final recommendations to the chancellor on August 15, 2024, which he accepted.

In Fall 2023, the Budget Model Review committee established nine key principles and circulated those to stakeholders for feedback, underlying review of the model. Those principles were formally adopted in December 2023. They were:

• Incentivize performance: The budget model should incentivize performance of units to align with campus strategic priorities and UW-Milwaukee’s mission.
• Ease of predicting revenues : The budget model should be simple enough to predict revenues related to key drivers, such as enrollment. It also should enable multiyear financial planning.
• Establish a subvention pool: Develop an updated strategy for the subvention pool and a limit on the total dollar amount.
• Establish a strategic pool: The budget model should continue to support a pool of funds for strategic initiatives.
• Flexibility to support the uniqueness of units: The budget model should allow for some flexibility in the allocation of funds to units based on their unique characteristics, such as costs of instruction and the availability of differential tuition.
• Granularity: The budget model should be granular enough for decision-makers to assess financial health at the program and subunit levels.
• Tax Structure: Explore usage-based charges of campus services as an alternative to the revenue contribution approach.
• Accumulated fund balances (“carryforward”): Explore enabling divisions who have a recent history of meeting budget targets to use some carryforward balances without seeking permission during the budget process.
• Enable timely improvements: To the extent recommended changes may take time, establish phases to enable the highest impact changes as soon as possible.

The primary changes being made to the model are:

• Change the formula for distribution of undergraduate tuition to focus on student credit hours and majors. 
• Incorporate residency mix into the distribution of undergraduate tuition. 
• Use more recent undergraduate enrollment performance in the formula. 
• Distribute state appropriations based on resident student credit hours and research.
• Replace the current subvention pool with a College Strategic Initiatives fund with a five-year phase-in.
• Allow colleges and divisions greater discretion in the use of carryforward balances.

The current model aims to incentivize the institution’s 2030 goals of student success, research, innovation and community impact, and financial sustainability. These goals remain our priorities.

The proposed changes will enable all colleges to transparently see the financial impact of different activities.

The institution will still retain the ability both at the college and institutional level to invest in a limited number of activities that may not cover their direct costs but are important to the institution. However, the institution and divisions will have to prioritize these activities in line with funding levels.

The model will be used beginning in FY26, which starts on July 1, 2025. Having said that, the elimination of subvention and replacement with a College Strategic Initiatives fund will be phased in over five years, beginning in FY26. FY26 budget planning starts in September 2024.

The model continues to distribute 80% of indirect cost return to colleges, which is a significantly larger percentage than most institutions provide.

In addition, the model will provide 50% of undesignated state appropriations, currently a pool of about $10 million, to be distributed based on a college’s relative share of external award activity. External award activity includes contract and grant expenses on funds 133 and 144.

Many disciplines have unique characteristics that impact their cost structure. These range from programs that operate teaching laboratories to accreditation or programmatic design (e.g. music, architecture).

As they do today, colleges will need to balance these needs in line with the institution’s overall funding levels. However, the new model retains differential tuition being distributed exclusive of the contribution to central services. This means that differential tuition is not assessed the current campus contribution rate of 41.5%.

In addition, the model establishes a $2 million College Strategic Initiative and Adjustments Pool, which could provide additional funding if warranted.

These programs or activities could be supported by the College Strategic Initiative Fund, although only for five years. During that time, they must find a path to become self-sustaining.

This is not so much the result of a change in the formula as much as it is a decision to reduce or eliminate subvention. Even under the current model, Lubar College of Business and College of Community Engagement and Professions should receive significantly more resources due to their larger enrollments.

The current budget model, which was created over five years ago, is referred to as the “New Budget Model” colloquially. Thus, we are recommending that the model implemented in FY26 be referred to as the UW-Milwaukee Activity-Based Budget Model.

Racial Equity Action Plan Progress and Impact Report

Since issuing a formal apology in October 2021 for our historical role in promoting, perpetuating, and failing to challenge racism and human hierarchy, APA has been steadfast in its mission to rectify systemic inequities and foster an inclusive and equitable future. The apology marked the beginning of a profound transformation within our organization—one that acknowledges the previous actions and inactions of APA and psychology, improves coordination across the association and field, and commits to substantial, lasting change.

This Racial Equity Action Plan Progress and Impact Report describes the collaborative efforts undertaken to date and the tangible progress made toward dismantling systemic racism in psychology and society at large, as well as the strategic principles guiding this work. This report does more than highlight APA’s progress on this complex issue. It reaffirms our dedication to building a more equitable future for all.

As outlined in this report, APA’s work to help advance racial equity has relied on systematic engagement, continuous introspection, and the establishment of critical infrastructure to foster sustainability. Underlying all these strategies is the foundational belief that equity, diversity, and inclusion must be infused into our association’s fabric if we are to reach our goals successfully.

This journey has not been perfect. However, each day has been a learning opportunity, and we have remained committed to the process. APA remains dedicated to taking responsibility for our role in perpetuating inequalities, and continuously learning and evolving as we move forward.

Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD Chief Executive Officer/Executive Vice President

Maysa Akbar, PhD, ABPP Chief Diversity Officer Chief of Psychology in the Public Interest

Download in PDF format (900KB)

Table of contents

APA’s EDI Framework and Racial Equity Action Plan

• Guiding Principles for Systemic Change

Demonstrating APA’s Work to Advance Racial Equity Aligned with the EDI Framework

• The APA Level
• The Field of Psychology and Society Levels

Progress and Impact: From 2022 Audit on Racial Equity to Now

• Shifting Approaches for Systemic Change: APA’s Impact Across Racial Equity Domains
• Enhancing Diversity: Insights into Representation Across APA

Detailed Impact Summaries Demonstrating Achievements in Advancing the REAP: Knowledge Production and Health Equity Priorities

• Priority 1: Advancing Racially Conscious Knowledge Production and Scholarship
• APA’s Collaborative Work to Advance Racially Conscious Knowledge Production and Scholarship
• Priority 2: Utilizing the Breadth of the Field to Advance Health Equity in Communities of Color
• APA’s Collaborative Work to Advance Health Equity

Looking Ahead to 2025 and 2026

• Snapshot of APA’s Workforce and Educational Equity Activities