small business printable business plan template

Business Plan Templates

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

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

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

Build A Business Plan That Works

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do you write a business plan.

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

Why do I need to fill out the information requested?

We will always keep your personal information safe..

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Where can I get a free business plan template?

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

Is this really free?

Absolutely.

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

What are the basic format of a business plan?

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

What is the best business plan template?

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

What is needed to start a business?

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

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Simple Business Plan Template (2024)

Updated: May 4, 2024, 4:37pm

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

Download free template as .docx

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

1. Your Mission or Vision

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

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

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

2. Offer and Value Proposition

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

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

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

3. Audience and Ideal Customer

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

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

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

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

4. Revenue Streams, Sales Channels and Marketing

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

Revenue Streams

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

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

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

Sales Channels

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

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

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

Channels that support other income streams might include:

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

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

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

5. Structure, Suppliers and Operations

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

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

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

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6. Financial Forecasts

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

Cost Forecast

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

Gross Profit Projections

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

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

Bottom Line

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

Is there a template for a business plan?

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

What does a simple business plan include?

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

How can I create a free business plan template?

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

What basic items should be included in a business plan?

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

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

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What is a business plan?

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

Typically, a good business plan consists of the following:

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

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

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

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

Should I use a business plan template?

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

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

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

Business plan templates for free

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

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

Grab a free template to get started!

Frequently asked questions

How many pages should my business plan be.

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

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

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

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

Who needs a business plan?

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

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

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

What is the best business plan template?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Should I use business planning software?

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

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

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Download Free Business Plan Examples

Download a free business plan in pdf or word doc format to make writing a plan fast and easy, find your sample plan.

Discover the sample plan that best fits your business. Search our gallery of over 550 sample business plans and find the one that's right for you.

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What You'll Get:

A complete business plan Unlike other blank templates, our business plan examples are complete business plans with all of the text and financial forecasts already filled out. Edit the text to make the plan your own and save hundreds of hours.

A professional business plan template All 550 of our business plans are in the SBA-approved format that’s proven to raise money from lenders and investors.

Instructions and help at every step Get help with clear, simple instructions for each section of the business plan. No business experience necessary.

A Word doc you can edit We don’t just have PDF documents that make editing a challenge. Each plan is available in Word format so you can start editing your business plan example right away.

Key Sections Included in our Example Business Plans:

Executive Summary : A quick overview of your plan and entices investors to read more of your plan.

Company : Describes the ownership and history of your business.

Products and Services : Reviews what you sell and what you’re offering your customers.

Market Analysis : Describes your customers and the size of your target market.

Strategy and Implementation : Provides the details of how you plan on building the business.

Management Team : An overview of the people behind the business and why they’re the right team to make the business a success.

Financial Plan : A complete set of forecasts including a Profit and Loss Statement, Cash Flow Statement, and Balance Sheet.

Looking for a sample business plan PDF? You can download a few PDF examples below:

• Accounting and Bookkeeping Sample Business Plan PDF
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• Cleaning Service Sample Business Plan PDF

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Yours to Download: A Basic Business Plan Template for Small Business Owners

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Whether you’re applying for a small business loan or setting goals for your growth, a small business plan is one of the most important documents you’ll create.

But it can also be incredibly frustrating and nerve-racking to create one yourself. What should go in it? How do you know if you’re including the correct information about your business? Do you need to add charts in there, too?

Wonder no more, because our FREE small business plan template not only helps answer those questions— it reduces the learning curve that comes with creating a small business plan.

Free PDF Download

Want some help creating your best business plan? Download our FREE business plan template here!

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Why You Need a Business Plan

Get a loan..

A business plan can show a bank or credit union how you intend to start and grow your business. The plan can play an essential role in convincing lenders to provide you with a small business loan, so it’s good to have on hand if you’re planning on securing financing.

Attract investors.

If you’re planning on financing your business through investors or cash from family and friends, a small business plan can help provide that extra confidence they might need to say yes. Provide copies of your business plan to potential investors so that they can get a better idea of how their money will be used if they invest in you.

Measure your success.

A business plan can act like a roadmap that you’ll follow toward a successful outcome. It’s easy to start a business and not realize that you’re off-track until it’s too late. A small business plan can help you stay on track to achieve the goals you want to hit over the next six months to five years.

Keep yourself accountable.

Whether you’re building a business plan for yourself or to share with others, there’s no denying that a plan can help keep you accountable. For example, if you’re not on track for achieving a specific outcome by a certain timeframe, you can make the necessary adjustments to get yourself back on track.

Let’s Get Down to Business

Download your basic business plan template and get started. It’s easy to fill out and comes with helpful instructions to guide along the way.

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Legal Disclosure: Simply Business, LLC. is not a legal, financial, or accounting firm and does not provide legal, financial, or accounting advice. This document is intended to be used for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for obtaining professional advice. We cannot and do not guarantee that it suits your needs. By using this template, you agree that you are responsible for the content of the documents you create and you assume full responsibility for any outcomes associated with using it.

I love writing about the small business experience because I happen to be a small business owner – I’ve had a freelance copywriting business for over 10 years. In addition to that, I also head up the content strategy here at Simply Business. Reach out if you have a great idea for an article or just want to say hi! Mariah writes on a number of topics such as small business planning, contractor insurance, and business licenses.

This content is for general, informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal, tax, accounting, or financial advice. Please obtain expert advice from industry-specific professionals who may better understand your business’s needs.  Read our full disclaimer

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Free Simple Business Plan Templates

Are you a business startup and want to get a free business plan template for your business? If yes, then you are at the right place. As a business plan writing company , we list out professional business plan templates for you so you can write your business plan easily. We have shared a wide range of templates for diversified business needs. You can choose one that suits your requirements

Free One Page Business Plan Template

Utilize this concise Free one-page business plan to systematically record your essential concepts. This template assists in constructing a simplified overview of your business plan, making it easily digestible for stakeholders. Consider this one-page plan as a starting point, serving as a reference for developing a more comprehensive business blueprint.

Simple Business Plan Template

This template guides you step by step through all the elements of a small business plan , covering areas like the company’s history, introducing the management team, conducting market analysis, presenting product or service details, outlining financial projections, and more. Additionally, it includes a pre-built table of contents to maintain the structure of your plan, and it’s fully adaptable to suit your specific needs.

Lean Startup Business Plan Template

The lean business plan template offers a simplified alternative to the traditional business plan Template. It includes concise sections for your company’s overview, industry context, problem-solving approach, unique value proposition, target market, and essential performance metrics. Additionally, there’s space to map out a timeline of crucial activities.

Free Business Plan Template

Boost your business with our collection of easy-to-use templates designed just for you.

Business Plan Templates By Business Category​

Potential Issues with Business Plan Templates & How to Address Them

Generic templates vs. industry specificity.

• Issue: One-size-fits-all business plan templates might not capture industry-specific details crucial for investors.
• Solution: Look for templates with industry-tailored sections or customize existing ones to highlight your industry’s nuances.

Lack of Financial Expertise

• Issue: Users might struggle with financial projections or terminology.
• Solution: Include clear instructions and financial guidance within the simple business plan template.. Users can also consult free online resources or financial advisors.

Data Accuracy and Consistency

• Issue: Inaccurate or inconsistent data can mislead investors.
• Solution: Double-check all data entries and ensure consistency across the plan. Consider using real financial data from your business (if applicable).

Overreliance on Templates

• Issue: Business Plan Templates shouldn’t replace critical thinking and analysis specific to your business.
• Solution: Use the template as a framework, but personalize it with your unique value proposition, competitive landscape analysis, and strategic goals.

Formatting and Readability

• Issue: Poor formatting can make your plan look unprofessional.
• Solution: Pay attention to formatting elements like fonts, spacing, and visuals. Ensure the plan is clear, concise, and easy to read.

Remember: Our Page includes 45 different kinds of business plan templates tailored for specific industries, So you can choose any format that suits your business with your ease.

Get Your One Page Business Plan Template from Wisebusinessplan Today!

Essential elements of a business plan.

• Executive Summary
• Business Description
• Market Analysis
• Competitive Analysis
• Marketing and Sales Strategy
• Organization and Management
• Product or Service Line
• Financial Projections
• Funding Request
• Appendix (optional)

Tips for Creating a Business Plan

Creating a business plan can seem like a daunting task, but the following tips aim to simplify the process as you develop your plan:

• Utilize a business plan template (choose from the options above) or refer to the previous section to establish a standard outline for your plan.
• Adapt your outline to suit the specific needs of your business. If you’re using a standard business plan outline, remove any sections that don’t apply to your situation or aren’t vital for running your business.
• Begin by gathering all the information you currently have about your business. Then, use this information to complete each section in your plan outline.
• Leverage available resources and conduct additional research to fill in any remaining gaps. (Note: You don’t have to fill out your plan in sequence, but remember that the executive summary, which summarizes key points, should be completed last.)
• Ensure your plan effectively conveys the interplay between your marketing, sales, and financial objectives.
• Include details in your plan that outline your strategic course of action, looking ahead three to five years.
• Regularly revisit your plan as strategies and objectives evolve.

At the very least, ensure your business plan addresses the following questions:

• What product or service are we offering?
• Who is the product or service for?
• What problem does our product or service solve?
• How will we deliver the product or service to our target customers?
• What makes our product or service superior to alternatives?
• How can we surpass our competitors?
• What is our unique value proposition?
• When will tasks be completed, and who is responsible for them?
• If funding is needed, how will it be utilized?
• When are payments due, and when will income be received?
• What is the ultimate purpose of your business?

To determine the type of business plan that suits your needs and for more helpful guidance, consult our guide on crafting a concise business plan.

Benefits of Using a Business Plan Template

Developing a business plan can be a time-consuming task, particularly if you’re unsure how to get started. However, utilizing the right template tailored to your business needs can prove highly advantageous. Here’s how using a business plan template, as opposed to starting from scratch, can be particularly helpful:

Facilitates Organized Planning

A template allows you to promptly jot down your thoughts and ideas in an orderly fashion. It provides a structured framework that simplifies the planning process.

Provides Clarity and Structure

Using a template gives your plan a clear structure, helping you outline your business objectives, strategies, and goals with greater precision.

Time and Resource Efficiency

Templates save you precious time and resources. They eliminate the need to create every section from the ground up, enabling you to focus on the content and strategy, rather than the format.

Prevents Oversight

Templates serve as comprehensive guides, helping you cover all the essential details your business plan should encompass. This reduces the risk of omitting crucial elements vital to your business’s success.

In essence, a well-designed business plan template streamlines the planning process, making it more efficient and ensuring that your plan is both thorough and well-organized.

Restrictions of Business Plan Templates

While a business plan template can be a helpful starting point, it comes with certain limitations, particularly if the template doesn’t align precisely with your business’s unique requirements. Here are some drawbacks to consider:

Lack of Customization

Every business is distinct, and your business plan should reflect that individuality. A template may not adequately cater to your specific needs, potentially resulting in an ill-fitting plan.

Impaired Collaboration

Using a template may hinder effective collaboration among different teams involved in the plan’s development, such as sales, marketing, and accounting teams. It might not be conducive to seamless teamwork.

Data Dispersal

Templates can lead to the creation of multiple files stored in various locations. This can make it challenging to maintain a centralized and up-to-date plan.

Chart and Graph Creation

Templates often require you to manually generate charts and graphs to support your strategic points. This adds an extra layer of work and complexity.

Multiple Updates

Keeping your plan, spreadsheets, and supporting documents synchronized can be cumbersome when using a template. Changes made may not automatically update across all documents, potentially causing version control issues.

In summary, while business plan templates can be a useful starting point, it’s essential to be aware of their limitations, especially when your business has specific requirements that may not be accommodated by a generic template.

A business plan template is a pre-written document that provides a structure and outline for writing a business plan. It can help businesses of all sizes save time and effort, ensure completeness, improve consistency, and make a better impression on potential investors and lenders.

To write a business plan using a template, simply follow the structure and outline provided. Fill in the blanks with information about your company, its products or services, its target market, its financial projections, and its marketing and sales strategies. Be sure to customize the template to fit the specific needs of your business.

The best business plan templates for small businesses are those that are tailored to the specific needs of small businesses. Some popular options include:

• Lean Startup Canvas
• Business Model Canvas
• One-Page Business Plan
• SBA Business Plan Template
• SCORE Business Plan Template

To customize a business plan template, simply add or remove sections as needed to fit the specific needs of your business. You can also change the wording and formatting of the template to match your company’s brand voice.

Here are a few tips for writing a successful business plan using a template:

• Be honest and realistic in your projections.
• Be clear and concise in your writing.
• Be specific about your goals and objectives.
• Tailor your plan to your target audience.
• Proofread your plan carefully before submitting it to potential investors or lenders.

Here are a few examples of good business plans written using templates:

• Tesla Business Plan
• Airbnb Business Plan
• Warby Parker Business Plan
• Glossier Business Plan
• Spotify Business Plan

Download Pack of 3 Business Plan Templates

One Page Business Plan + Lean Business Plan + Simple Business Plan Template

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Business plan template

Streamline your strategic planning process with a free business plan template.

Leverage a professional business plan template to streamline your strategic planning process. It guides you through each critical aspect of your business, from market research to financial statements, ensuring that no essential detail is overlooked. With this template, organizing your business strategy and defining target customers becomes a more efficient, clear, and manageable task.

Try TimeCamp Planner for improved team collaboration and efficiency

The Importance of a Best Business Plan Template

A robust business plan is the foundation of any successful venture. It serves as a roadmap, guiding through the stages of growth and business development. A comprehensive business plan outlines objectives, strategies, and the means to achieve them, providing clarity and direction. It is essential not only for internal planning but also for communicating the business vision to potential investors and partners.

Overview of a Business Plan Template Structure

The structure of a business plan is critical to its effectiveness. It typically includes a summary, company overview, business model, market research, marketing plan, revenue and expense projections, and details about the management team. Each section plays a vital role in presenting a well-rounded view of the business, its goals, and its strategies. A well-structured business plan is not just a document; it's a strategic tool that can significantly influence the success of a business.

Crafting an Impactful Executive Summary with Simple Business Plan Templates

Key elements of a business plan executive summary.

The executive summary is a concise overview of the business plan, highlighting its key points. It should include the company description, business concept, primary objectives, market opportunity, income statement, and a summary of financial projections. This section is crucial as it's often the first part read by investors and stakeholders, and it sets the tone for the rest of the business plan.

Communicating Your Vision Effectively

Effectively communicating the business vision in the executive summary of the business plan template is vital. This section should encapsulate the essence of the business plan, conveying the ambition, potential, and direction of the business. It needs to be compelling enough to grab the reader's attention and encourage them to read further.

Conducting Thorough Market Analysis

Strategies for effective market analysis.

Market analysis is a critical component of the business plan. It involves examining the industry, target market, and competition. Effective competitive analysis requires gathering substantial data and insights to understand market trends, customer needs, and competitive dynamics. This analysis forms the basis for making informed decisions and strategies.

Interpreting Market Trends and Consumer Needs

Interpreting market trends and consumer needs is vital in positioning the existing business for success. This part of the competitor analysis helps in identifying opportunities and threats within the market and guides the development of strategies to address them. A thorough understanding of the market ensures that the business plan is grounded in reality and has a higher chance of success.

Developing a Strong Marketing Strategy with a Free Business Plan Template

Components of a successful marketing and business plan.

Marketing plans outline strategies for promoting products or services to the target audience. It should detail the marketing mix – product, price, place, and promotion – and explain how these elements will be utilized to reach the market effectively. Well-crafted marketing plans not only identify the target market but also outline specific actions for engaging with potential customers, enhancing brand visibility, and driving sales.

Aligning Marketing Strategies with Business Goals

Aligning marketing strategies with business goals is crucial for the success of any winning business plan. This alignment ensures that marketing efforts are not just tactical but strategic, contributing directly to the achievement of overall business objectives. It requires a deep understanding of both the business goals and the dynamics of the market to create a marketing plan that effectively bridges the gap between the two.

Building Financial Success

Projecting financials and managing budgets.

The finance plan section of the written business plan involves projecting financials, seeking financing, and managing budgets. This section should provide detailed financial forecasts, including income statements, cash flow statements, and balance sheets for the next few years. It's crucial for demonstrating the financial viability of the business and planning for future growth. Accurate financial projections help in making informed decisions about budget allocation, pricing strategies, and funding requirements.

Strategies to Secure Funding and Financial Growth

Strategies to secure funding are a key part of the financial plan. This involves identifying potential sources of funding, such as loans, investors, or grants, and developing a compelling case to secure these funds. The financial plan should convincingly show how the funds will be used to grow the business and how this growth will be financially sustainable in the long run.

Creating a Competitive Advantage

Identifying and leveraging competitive strengths.

Creating a competitive strength service offering is about identifying and leveraging the unique strengths or differentiators of the business. This could be through superior technology, innovative products, exceptional service, or strong brand positioning. The business plan should articulate these competitive strengths clearly and demonstrate how they will be used to capture market share and achieve business goals.

Sustaining Competitive Advantage in a Changing Market

Sustaining competitive business ideas in a constantly evolving market is challenging. The simple business plan template should outline strategies for maintaining this advantage, such as continuous innovation, adaptability to market changes, and consistent customer engagement. It's about creating a long-term financial plan to stay ahead of competitors and remain relevant in the market.

Assembling an Effective Management Team

Criteria for selecting management team members.

An effective managers team is essential for the success of any detailed business plan. The criteria for selecting key members should focus on diverse skills, experience, and leadership qualities. Each member should bring a unique set of abilities to the table, complementing each other and contributing to a well-rounded leadership team. A well-researched business plan should detail the roles, backgrounds, and responsibilities of each team member, showcasing how their collective expertise will drive the business forward.

Roles and Responsibilities within the Business Planning Team

Defining the roles and responsibilities within the managers' team and business partners is crucial for effective business plans. A successful business plan should clearly outline who is responsible for what areas of the business, ensuring accountability and efficiency. This clarity helps in avoiding overlaps and gaps in leadership, leading to better decision-making and a more cohesive team dynamic.

Navigating Legal and Regulatory Frameworks

Understanding legal requirements and compliance.

Navigating legal and regulatory frameworks is a non-negotiable aspect of any business plan. It involves understanding and complying with all relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards. This section should detail the legal considerations pertinent to the business, such as licenses, permits, and compliance requirements. Adequate attention to legalities not only protects the business from potential liabilities but also builds trust with stakeholders.

Mitigating Risks through Strategic Planning

Mitigating risks through strategic planning is essential for safeguarding a business idea. The business plan template should identify potential risks – financial, operational, legal, and market-related – and outline strategies to mitigate them. This includes plans for risk management, insurance, and contingency planning, ensuring the business is well-prepared for unforeseen challenges.

Utilizing Free Business Plan Templates

Advantages of using a printable business plan template.

Utilizing a free business template can be a practical starting point for drafting a new business plan. These templates provide a structured format and essential guidelines, which can be particularly beneficial for first-time entrepreneurs or small business owners. They help in organizing thoughts, ensuring all critical components of business plans are covered, and saving time in the planning process.

Customizing Templates to Fit Specific Business Needs

While free business templates offer a solid foundation, customizing them to fit specific business needs is crucial. This customization involves adapting the template to reflect the unique aspects of the new business, its industry, and its market. Tailoring the template ensures that the business plan format is relevant, focused, and aligned with the business’s specific goals and strategies.

Integrating TimeCamp Planner in Business Planning

Enhancing solid business plan execution with timecamp planner.

Integrating TimeCamp Planner into writing a business plan can significantly enhance execution efficiency. TimeCamp Planner offers features that support task management, time tracking, and progress monitoring – all crucial for implementing the strategies outlined in the business plan. Its use can lead to better resource allocation, improved time management, and more effective project execution.

TimeCamp Planner’s Role in Streamlining Business Processes

TimeCamp Planner plays a pivotal role in the writing process and streamlining established business processes, aligning perfectly with the principles of effective business planning. It provides insights into productivity, helps in identifying bottlenecks, and offers data-driven analytics for continuous improvement. Incorporating TimeCamp Planner in the business plan demonstrates a commitment to using advanced tools for optimal business management.

Conclusion: Executing and Revising Your Simple Business Plan Template

The journey from business planning to business success.

The journey from drafting a business plan template to achieving business success involves diligent execution and constant revision. A well-crafted business plan sets the stage, but it is the ongoing effort, adaptability, and commitment to the plan that ultimately lead to success. Regularly reviewing and updating the business plan in response to market changes, business growth, and new opportunities is crucial.

The Importance of Continual Plan Evaluation and Adaptation

Continual evaluation and adaptation of a business plan template is essential in today's dynamic business environment. The business plan template should not be a static document; it needs to evolve as the business grows and the market changes. Periodic reviews and updates help in staying relevant, addressing new challenges, and seizing emerging opportunities.

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Powerful business plan templates

Plan for the future, no matter what your business plans are or the size of your business with these designs and templates. whether it's just one big project or an entire organization's worth of dreams, these templates will keep you and your company on track from ideation to completion..

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

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

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Sample business plans

About this document and download, translations, variations of this document.

• Version Rebecca's Plan-Traditional | File size: 245KB | Download .doc for Rebecca's Plan-Traditional /
• Version Andrew's Plan - Traditional | File size: 244KB | Download .doc for Andrew's Plan - Traditional /
• Version Andrew's Lean Business Plan | File size: 247KB | Download .doc for Andrew's Lean Business Plan /

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Disclaimer : Translations are for informational purposes only. Applications must be submitted in English.

Free Business Templates for Organizations of All Sizes

By Kate Eby | April 8, 2020

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In this article, you’ll find an extensive collection of expert-tested, easy-to-use business templates to help you save time and improve productivity. Download free templates for  business planning , financial planning and budgeting , inventory management , and more.  

Business Plan Templates

At the foundation of any thriving business is intentional and persistent planning. Whether you are starting up a small business, expanding your current business, or simply need strategic direction as an entrepreneur, these business planning templates will empower you to develop your business blueprint and achieve your short and long-term goals.

Simple Small Business Plan Template

Use this essential one-page business plan template as a starting point to record the purpose of your business, the problem you are solving, the strategies of top competitors, as well as your key milestones marketing strategies, and a SWOT analysis. This template was designed with small businesses in mind, but can be used for organizations of any size.

Download Simple Small Business Plan Template

Excel | Word | PDF | Smartsheet

Startup Business Plan Template

This customizable startup business plan template enables you to outline strategies for your new business, so you can adapt to internal and external factors, as well as stay ahead of the competition. Modify this template to fill in the company’s background information, financial overview (including growth projections), business offerings, pricing structure, marketing strategy, competitive analysis, and more. Having all this data in one place will provide you with the clear direction you need to meet your business objectives. 

Download Startup Business Plan Template

Word | Smartsheet

Business Plan Executive Summary Template

This business plan executive summary template organizes, clarifies, and simplifies the process of communicating with potential investors concerning the essential details of your business, product, or idea. This template includes sections to showcase your vision, mission, history, value proposition, competitive advantage, target market, market opportunity, competitors, financials, and more. With this executive summary, your business plan will command attention from the start.

Download Business Plan Executive Summary Template

Excel | Word | PDF  | Smartsheet

For additional resources and free downloads, take a look at " Simple Business Plan Templates ."

Small Business Templates

These professionally designed templates cater to the small business owner, and you can customize them to fit your needs. Download and use these templates to help save time as you plan out your budget, track sales, and keep a finger on the financial pulse of your business.

Small Business Budget Template

This basic budgeting plan is ideal for small businesses that need a simple, easy-to-use template to track monthly business revenue and expenditures. This template comes with separate tabs to track monthly income and monthly fixed and variable expenses. It also includes a log to record cash transactions and remaining balances. 

Download Small Business Budget Template

Excel | Smartsheet

Small Business Sales Tracking Template

Use this sales tracker template to track costs, sales, income, and more for multiple items. You can also track the shipping costs, returns, and profit per item sold. This template comes with built-in graphs that correspond to the values you enter, and you can customize it to fit your needs. 

Download Small Business Sales Tracking Template — Excel

Small Business Pro Forma Balance Sheet Template

Use this pro forma balance sheet template to help manage your business assets and make monetary projections. Use financial statements to project the future status of receivables, inventory, equipment, debt, retained earnings, and more. With built-in formulas, this template also provides space to calculate key financial ratios. 

Download Small Business Pro Forma Balance Sheet Template — Excel

Startup Business Templates

Patience, diligent planning, and proper timing are all key aspects of a successful startup. Use these customizable templates to organize your ideas and finances so you can get your startup off the ground.

Startup Business Planning Schedule

Planning the launch of a startup business can be overwhelming. This template will support you in the planning process by allowing you to organize each phase of the process into actionable steps. Use this startup business planning schedule to define key tasks and deadlines, and use the built-in calendar to visualize progress and milestones.

Download Startup Business Planning Schedule

Startup Budget Template

One of the fundamental elements of a successful startup business is a detailed plan for resource allocation. This comprehensive startup budget template enables you to plan out estimates for funding, including investor funding and loans. It also allows you to plan out estimated expenses, including administrative, office, and marketing costs. In addition, the template compares budgeted to actual amounts at both a granular and high-level view.

Download Startup Budget Template — Excel

Startup Financial Projections Template (Profit and Loss, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statement)

Use this template to make financial projections for a startup business. This customizable template bundle with built-in formulas includes a detailed profit and loss projection over a 12-month period, a balance sheet, and a cash flow statement. 

Download Startup Financial Projections Template — Excel 

For additional startup template options, see “Free Startup Plan, Budget, and Cost Templates.”

Business Budget Templates

In order to make strategic decisions, a business must engage in effective budgeting practices. When an organization follows this maxim, it can accurately chart its current and projected financial standing. Use these professionally built budgeting templates to track cash flow, expenses, and costs and, in doing so, increase your company’s profitability and ROI.

Business Budget Template

This customizable business budget template enables you to plan your business expenses and break them down into goods and services. To create a spending plan for your finances, compare budgeted and actual amounts for all elements of the business, including operating expenses, payroll expenses, office expenses, health expenses, costs for labor and materials, and more.

Download Business Budget Template

Excel |  Smartsheet

Monthly and Yearly Business Budget Template

Use this 12-month business budget template for both a high-level and granular view of your organization’s financial performance over time. This template contains both a profit and loss section and balance sheet section to track revenue, costs, and expenses — fill out these sections to see the financial status of your business at a monthly, quarterly, and annual view.

Download Annual Business Budget Template

Excel | Smartsheet 

For additional budget template options, see “Free Business Budget Templates for Any Company.”

Business Invoice Templates

Download the following free business invoice templates — designed for organizations of any size — to provide your clients with invoices for the products or services they purchase. You’ll find simple templates, as well as advanced templates with built-in calculators.

Business Invoice Template

Organizations in any industry or of any size can use this professional business invoice template to bill clients for work. Simply enter product prices, quantities, shipping costs, and tax rates, and built-in formulas will automatically calculate total values. There is also room to add a logo, special remarks or instructions for payment, contact information, and other payment details that you can customize to fit your needs.

Download Business Invoice Template — Excel

Simple Invoice Template

This sales or service invoice template is designed to be easy to fill out and submit to clients. Simply add your logo and company information at the top, fill in the customer contact details, and add each line item description and amount. There is also space at the bottom of the template to add your contact information, should the client have any questions or concerns.

Download Simple Invoice Template

Blank Invoice Template

To use this invoice template, simply add billing and shipping information, product or service purchase details, special remarks or instructions, and contact information. There is also room at the top to insert a company logo. You can fully customize and print this blank invoice template or send it to clients electronically. 

Download Blank Invoice Template 

PDF | Smartsheet

If you need additional resources for accounting and bookkeeping, check out “55 Free Invoice Templates. ”

Business Financial Templates

With effective financial planning, you can set short and long-term goals and establish parameters for your work as you develop your strategy and prioritize your action plan. These free financial planning templates can assist you in the process of allocating resources in order to meet your overall business objectives.

Yearly Financial Projections Template

This detailed, all-in-one financial projection template contains separate tabs, and includes a profit and loss statement, a balance sheet, and a cash flow statement. Enter monthly financial data, and the built-in formulas will automatically calculate profit and loss ratios at a monthly, quarterly, and yearly view. Next, enter assets, liabilities, and stakeholder funds to track quarterly changes on the balance sheet and the formulas will also calculate balance sheet ratios. Finally, enter cash flow from operations, as well as investing and financing activities, to identify the cash position of your business.

Download Yearly Financial Projections Template

Financial Summary Report Template

Use this customizable financial summary report template to compare financial data from the previous year to the reporting year. This document also allows you to reference built-in visuals in order to see performance at a glance. This template enables you to report on total revenue, operating profit, net profit, assets, liabilities, and other financials at a high-level view.

Download Financial Summary Report Template — Excel

Financial Management Plan Template

Use this customizable financial management plan template to create a comprehensive financial plan of action. This template provides a basic outline to help you detail the purpose, scope, milestones, stakeholders, assumptions, risks, and methods you use to manage your business finances. Set up meetings on a regular basis to review your financial plan. Scheduling a standing meeting ensures that you will reach your goals and allows you to make modifications according to updated objectives.

Download Financial Management Plan Template

If you need additional financial resources and templates, check out our financial planning templates and Excel financial templates .  

Inventory Templates

Keeping track of inventory levels and product orders can help lower costs and improve efficiency. Use these free inventory templates to accurately track your company’s assets and support your inventory management process.

Small Business Inventory Control Template

This basic inventory control template enables you to track the total quantity and value of your organization’s current inventory, as well as see items that you need to reorder. When you enter the item number, name, manufacturer, cost, stock quantity, reorder level, and days per reorder, each item’s inventory value will calculate automatically via built-in formulas.

Download Small Business Inventory Control Template

Asset Tracking Template

Keep track of your company’s computer hardware, office furniture, intellectual property, and other business assets using this asset tracking template. This template keeps a record of each asset’s name, description, department, order date, vendor, warranty expiration date, model, quantity, value, and more. There is also space to add a link to (or image of) each asset. 

Download Asset Tracking Template

Stock Inventory Management Template

Use this stock inventory control management template to keep inventory levels in check, maintain a record of inventory value and location, and track when it’s time to reorder. This template contains separate tabs, including a stock inventory control tab, stock tracking tab, stock inventory item tab, and stock vendor list tab, to store all inventory and vendor contact details in one convenient location. 

Download Stock Inventory Management Template

For additional resources for inventory management, check out “Free Excel Inventory Templates.”

Additional Business Templates to Help Your Organization

For additional resources to support you in all aspects of your business, check out our wide selection of free, downloadable templates — from planning and scheduling to project management and reporting:

Agenda Templates

Calendar Templates

Dashboard Templates

Estimate & Quote Templates

Marketing Templates

Project Management Templates

Proposal Templates

Receipt Templates

Sales Templates

Work Scheduling Templates

Business Case Templates

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