RESOURCE COLLECTION
Create a business plan
Don’t just wing it – create a game plan. Writing out business goals and action steps not only helps you clarify and organize priorities, it gives potential investors a clear vision of your roadmap to profitability.
Part of
Elements of an Effective Business Plan
The plan usually projects 3-5 years into the future and includes 8 basic parts.
- Executive Summary
Briefly explain your business and plans for the future - Business Description
Describe your business and your product or service, and explain how they are different from other businesses. - Market Analysis
Identify your potential customers, and describe your industry and competition. - Organization & Management
Show how you plan to structure your business and introduce your management team and their responsibilities. - Service or Product Line
Describe your product or service, including the features and benefits of your product or service. - Marketing & Sales
Explain how you plan to market and sell your product or service to the potential customers you’ve identified. - Finances
Show your current and projected financial status, including balance sheets, a cash flow statement, and revenue projections. - Appendix or Supporting Documents
Include additional documents that support your plan.
As you form your business plan, consider the impact it may have on the environment. Learn how to Green your business.
Resources
Guides
Technical Assistance Services
Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
The SBDC provides free, confidential one-on-one business counseling, hands-on workshops and access to capital.
Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center
A nonprofit offering comprehensive small business training and support services throughout the Bay Area.
City College of San Franicsco
Offering low-cost business related classes such as Ownership and Operations of a Small Business.
SF Public Library Business Center
The Small Business Center is on the fourth floor of the SF Library Main Branch.
SCORE
Free, confidential business counseling from professionals with real world experience.
SBA Workshops
Workshops cover a wide range of topics such as bookkeeping, business law basics, marketing, etc.
Documents
Business Plan Template - US Small Business Administration (SBA)
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