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7 Steps to a Perfectly Written Business Plan Your business plan is how investors and potential partners see that you know everything you can about your industry.

By John Rampton

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Every business needs to have a written business plan. Whether it's to provide direction or attract investors, a business plan is vital for the success for your organization. But, how do you write a business plan?

SBA.gov recommends that a business plan include:

  • Executive summary -- a snapshot of your business
  • Company description -- describes what you do
  • Market analysis - research on your industry, market and competitors
  • Organization and management -- your business and management structure
  • Service or product -- the products or services you're offering
  • Marketing and sales -- how you'll market your business and your sales strategy
  • Funding request -- how much money you'll need for next 3 to 5 years
  • Financial projections -- supply information like balance sheets
  • Appendix -- an optional section that includes résumés and permits