How to Prepare a Business Plan Without an Agent
Step 1. Review Official SBA Guidelines The U.S. Small Business Administration offers free templates and examples. SBA Business Plan Tool - https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/plan-your-business/write-your-business-plan
Step 2. Research Your Market Use U.S. Census Bureau, Statista, or IBISWorld (free summaries) to understand your target market, demographics, and competitors. https://www.census.gov/econ/https://www.bls.gov/ooh/https://www.uschamber.com/co/start/strategy/market-research-small-business
Step 3. Create Financial Projections Estimate startup costs, recurring expenses, and revenue potential using online calculators. SBA Financial Templates - https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/plan-your-business/calculate-your-startup-costsBusiness Financial Template Gallery - https://www.score.org/resource/business-planning-financial-statements-template-gallery
Step 4. Format to SBA or Investor Standards Include: ● Executive Summary ● Market Analysis ● Organizational Structure ● Product/Service Description ● Marketing Plan ● Financial Forecasts ● Funding Request (if applicable) Step 5. Review and Finalize ● Proofread for clarity, accuracy, and consistency. ● Consider professional review before submission to lenders or investors - https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance
Common Mistakes to Avoid
● Using generic templates without customized market or financial data ● Overestimating early-stage revenue or underestimating expenses ● Ignoring competitor analysis or customer segmentation ● Submitting incomplete or non-SBA-compliant plans for funding ● Failing to include measurable growth and marketing milestones
Documents & Information Needed
● Business name and structure (LLC, Corporation, Partnership, Sole Proprietor) ● Business address and EIN ● Description of products or services ● Target customer profile (age, location, industry, or consumer segment) ● Competitive research or known competitors ● Financial records or estimates (startup costs, monthly expenses, revenue goals) ● Funding needs and sources (loans, investments, or grants) ● Ownership details and team bios
Let Victoria Handle It for You
Skip the paperwork, avoid mistakes, and let us work on your Custom Small Business Plan Preparation. As a corporate compliance specialist, Victoria takes care of filings, compliance, and deadlines - so you can focus on growing your business.
Agency Founder, Victoria Duchovny