bank loan business plan pdf

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How to Write a Business Plan for Loan with Free Template

A business plan for bank loan is instrumental in getting a loan and funding for your business. When you approach the lenders or investors with a proper business plan , you increase your chances of getting a loan for your business plan. 

Why Do You Need Business Plan for Bank Loan?

• A Business Plan Helps You Get Loans and Funding

A Business Plan Increases Your Chances of Business Success

• A Business Plan Helps you Grow Strategically
• A Business Plan Helps You Measure Business Growth
• What is included business plan for bank loan?

Process of Writing a Business Plan for a Bank Loan

How to create a business plan for a loan with a free template.

• Sample Of Business Plan For Loan And Funding

Wondering how to write a business plan for a loan that could get you approved? Read our guide on the topic, check the business plan sample for bank loan, and use our business plan for loan template to make a killer business plan.

Get our affordable business plan writing services now!

A business plan clears your mind about business, helps you prepare for it, and makes you a good candidate for loans, funding, and investments. In short, writing a business plan for a loan is worth it. 

For Later: To learn more about how to write a business plan specifically for a bank loan, check out our bank ready business plan .

A Business Plan Helps You Get Loans and Funding 

When you present your business idea before investors and lenders (or anyone else you are looking to for funding), you look serious with a business plan. 

You may not need a book in the name of a business plan but you need to present your business idea in a convincing way.

When they know your business idea is sound and you can return the loan, they will be inclined to give you a loan. 

A research on the impact of business planning shows that the businesses that start with proper planning have more chances of success. 

A business plan helps both the new firms and the established firms. 

A Business Plan Helps you Grow Strategically 

A business plan is a road-map for your business growth, whether you use it as a roadmap or not. When you put effort into making a business plan, you set priorities, establish goals, create a strategy for achieving those goals, and set a time frame for achieving those goals. 

A Business Plan Helps You Measure Business Growth 

The market conditions will never be exactly the same as you had expected in the business plan. 

Here, your business plan will help you compare planning against actual developments. You can see if you are going in the right direction as you planned or you need to change course.

Maybe you need to make a new business plan as your business might take a different shape than you expected.

What is included business plan for bank loan?

A business plan starts with an executive summary that briefly describes the business idea and ends with the appendix that includes lengthy financial documents or other reference materials. 

These are the parts of a business plan. 

• Executive Summary
• Business Overview 
• Business Objectives and Goals
• Competitor Analysis 
• Market Analysis  
• Product and Services
• Operational Plan 
• Business Structure and Management
• Financial Analysis
• Marketing and Sales

Let’s see what you will write in each of the above-listed sections of the business plan for loan.

Executive Summary: Write this section after you have completed the business plan. Briefly discuss your business idea and its parts. 

Business Overview: Include basic details about your business like business name, address, year established, etc. 

Business Objectives and Goals: Discuss what are the short-term and long-term business goals and how do you plan to achieve them. 

Competitor Analysis: Conduct an analysis of your direct and indirect competitors. A SWOT analysis of your competitors can help you identify opportunities for creating your competitive advantage. 

Market Analysis: Discuss market conditions in your industry. Is your target industry seeing a growth trend or a decline? What are the driving factors for growth in your industry?

Product and Services: Introduce the products and services of your business, how your product or service works, how you will price them, and what is your sales and distribution strategy for your products or services. 

Operational Plan: Explain your operation plan and discuss how you plan to run your business. The operation plan will discuss organizational structure, team working, and almost all aspects of business operations. 

Business Structure and Management: Introduce business managers and key employees here. Also briefly discuss the legal structure of your business like if you are C-corp, S-corp, LLC , etc. 

Financial Analysis: Discuss initial business costs, running cost, business break even cost, the amount of funding you need and how you will spend that funding. Also create a financial forecast for your business. 

Marketing and Sales: This section will include the marketing and sales plan for your products or services.

Try to make it detailed so that the bank or your lender can understand how you will make your business profitable and if you will have solid capacity to pay back the loans. 

Appendix: Anything you didn’t or couldn’t mention in the previous business plan sections will go here. For example, you can include extended financial reports, research about your industry, detailed CVs of your team and management, etc. 

Download Free Example Business Plan for Loan

Make business plan for loan quick and easy, use this business plan template for loan. 

A template is an easy and straightforward way to write a business plan. A template gives you step by step instructions on what each business section is about and how to write it. 

Wisebusinessplans offers business plan for bank loan template that guides you with questions in every section of the business. Simply answer the questions in each section and your business plan will be ready in no time. 

These are the steps to writing a business plan for small business loan with a template: 

Collection Business Information : Make business information available, keep business documentation at hand as you will need to use data from these documents. 

Write Business Plan : Proceed with writing the business plan. You will not stop until you reach financial analysis. 

Prepare Financial Projections : When you are applying for a debt, the lender will most closely look at your financial projections. Take your time to write financial projections. Make sure you sound convincing.

Also, don’t bury information in the spreadsheets or too much data. State inference you draw from the data first, include necessary financial projections in the business plan and put the rest of them into the business plan appendix. 

Proofread and Revise : Business plan is a thorough document. It is highly likely to leave some holes in the first draft. Proofread your business plan at least once to check for language and factual mistakes. You also come up with a new and better way of saying something. 

Get Second Opinion : Engage a trusted friend, or family member, or an advisor and get their opinion on your business plan. Their unique perspective will force you to improve it,

Sample Of Business Plan For Loan And Funding 

Want to see a sample on the quest of ‘how to make a business plan for a loan’, check the link below.This  business plan for bank loan example will help you see how an actual business plan for a bank looks like and what is the end-product you are working towards. 

Business Plan for Loan

Get this simple business plan template and make better business plan

 A business plan is essential when applying for a loan as it provides lenders with a comprehensive understanding of your business, including its objectives, financial projections, market analysis, and operational strategies. It demonstrates your preparedness and increases the likelihood of securing funding.

To write a business plan for a loan, start by outlining your executive summary, company description, market analysis, products or services, marketing and sales strategies, organizational structure, financial projections, and appendices. Utilizing a free business plan template can help guide you through the process.

 Free business plan templates are widely available online. You can search for reputable websites or organizations that offer templates specifically designed for writing business plans for loans. These templates typically provide a structured format and guidance to ensure you include all the necessary components.

The financial projections section of your business plan should include a sales forecast, cash flow statement, profit and loss statement, and balance sheet. It is important to provide realistic estimates based on thorough market research and a detailed understanding of your business’s financial performance.

Absolutely. Seeking assistance or feedback when writing your business plan for a loan is highly recommended. You can consult with business advisors, mentors, or industry experts who can provide valuable insights and help ensure your business plan is comprehensive, well-structured, and compelling to potential lenders.

Want to write a business plan?

Hire our professional business plan writers now!

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How To Write A Business Plan for A Bank Loan (3 Key Steps)

Wondering how to create a business plan that will wow your banker.

You're not alone.

Most entrepreneurs see writing a business plan as a gargantuan task – especially if they've never written one before.

Where do you start?

How do you calculate the financials?

How can you be sure you're not making a mistake?

And if you need a business plan for a bank loan, getting this document right is absolutely essential.

So here's what we recommend: simplify the planning process by breaking the work up into manageable, bite–sized steps. That way, you can focus on one section at a time to make sure it's accurate.

Here's a quick overview of the step–by–step process we guide entrepreneurs through when they sign up for LivePlan.

Step 1: Outline The Opportunity

This is the core of your business plan. It should give loan officers a clear understanding of:

• What problem you're solving
• How your product or service fits into the current market
• What sets your business apart from the competition

There are three key parts to this step:

The Problem & Solution

Detail exactly what problem you are solving for your customers. How do their lives improve after you solve that “pain point” for them?

We recommend actually going out and chatting with your target audience first. That way, you can validate that you're solving a real problem for your potential customers.

Be sure to describe your solution in vivid detail. For example, if the problem is that parking downtown is expensive and hard to find, your solution might be a bike rental service with designated pickup and dropoff locations.

Target Market

Who exactly are you selling to? And roughly how many of them are there?

This is crucial information for determining whether or not your business will succeed long–term. Never assume that your target market is “everyone.”

For example, it would be easy for a barber shop to target everyone who needs a haircut. But most likely, it will need to focus on a specific market segment to reach its full business potential. This might include catering to children and families, seniors or business professionals.

Competition

Who are your direct competitors? These are companies that provide similar solutions that aim to solve your customers' pain points.

Then outline what your competitive advantages are. Why should your target market choose you over the other products or services available?

Think you don't have any competition? Think again. Your customers are likely turning to an indirect competitor that is solving their problem with a different type of solution.

For example: A taco stand might compete directly with another taco stand, but indirectly with a nearby hot dog vendor.

Boost your chances of securing a loan

See how LivePlan can help you write a fundable business plan

Step 2: Show how you'll execute

This is where the action happens! Here you'll get into the details of how you'll take advantage of the opportunity you outlined in the previous section. This part demonstrates to banks that you have a strong plan to achieve success.

The three main components of this step include:

Marketing & Sales Plan

There can be a lot of moving parts to this one, depending on your business model.

But most importantly, you'll need to fully explain how you plan to reach your target market and convert those people into customers. A few example of what should be included:

• Positioning strategy. What makes your business both unique and highly desirable to your target market?
• Marketing activities. Will you advertise with billboards, online ads or something else entirely?
• Pricing. What you charge must reflect consumer demand. There are a few models to choose from, including ‘cost–plus pricing’ and ‘value pricing.’

This is the nuts and bolts of your business. It's especially important for brick–and–mortar companies that operate a storefront or have a warehouse.

You may want to explain why your location is important or detail how much space you have available. Plan to work at home? You can also cover your office space and any plans to move outside your house.

Any specialized software or equipment and tools should also be covered here.

Milestones & Metrics

Lenders and investors want to be confident that you know how to turn your business plans into financial success. That's where your milestones come in.

These are planned goals that help you progress your company. For example, if you're launching a new product your milestones may include completing prototypes and figuring out manufacturing.

Metrics are how you will gauge the success of your business. Do you want to generate a certain level of sales? Or keep costs at a certain level? Figuring out which metrics are most important and then tracking them is essential for growth.

Step 3: Detail your financial plan

This is the most crucial – and intimidating – part of any business plan for a bank loan. Your prospective lender will look especially close at this section to determine how likely your business is to succeed.

But the financial section doesn't have to be overwhelming, especially if you break the work into smaller pieces. Here are 3 items that your plan must have:

Simply put, this is your projections for your business finances. It gives you (and the bank) an idea of how much profit your company stands to make. Just a few items you'll need to include:

• Revenue. List all your products, services and any other ways your business will generate income.
• Direct costs. Or in other words, what are the costs to make what you sell?
• Personnel. Salaries and expenses related to what you pay yourself, employees and any contactors.
• Expenses. Things like rent, utilities, marketing costs and any other regular expenses.

Exactly how will you use any investments, loans or other financing to grow your business? This might include paying for capital expenses like equipment or hiring personnel.

Also detail where all your financing is coming from. Lines of credit, loans or personal savings should be listed here.

Bankers will be giving this section a lot of attention. Here's what you'll need:

• Profit & Loss. This statement pulls in numbers from your sales forecast and other elements to show whether you're making or losing money.
• Projected Balance Sheet. This is likely the first thing a loan officer will look at: it covers your liability, capital and assets. It provides an overview of how financially sound your business is.
• Projected Cash Flow. Essentially, this statement keeps track of how much money you have in the bank at any given point. Loan officers are likely to expect realistic monthly cash flow for the next 12 months.

Don't forget the Executive Summary

The Executive Summary is the first section of your business plan, but we recommend you tackle it last.

It's basically an introduction to your company, summarizing the main points of your plan. Keep it to just one or two pages and be as clear and concise as possible.

Think of it as a quick read designed to get the lender excited about your business.

If you need help writing your plan

Not everyone feels confident writing a business plan themselves, especially if it's needed to secure a bank loan.

And although you don't need an MBA to write one, getting your business plan right often does require quite a bit of work. So if you need help writing your plan, here are two options to consider:

• Hire a professional business plan writer to do it for you. This is typically the most expensive route, but worth it if you're pursuing $100,000 or more in capital.
• Sign up for LivePlan. It's business planning software that walks you through a step–by–step process for writing any type of plan. It's an affordable option that also gives you an easy way to track your actuals against your business plan, so you can get the insights you need to grow faster.

LivePlan makes it easy to write a winning business plan

No risk – includes our 35-day money back guarantee.

Home » Blog » Business Loans » How To Write A Business Plan For A Loan

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How To Write A Business Plan For A Loan

A solid business plan is often critical to securing funding for your small business. Learn how to create a business plan for a loan that includes the information lenders want to see.

WRITTEN & RESEARCHED BY

Lead Staff Writer

A business plan is a crucial business document you need to have on hand when applying for business loans. However, the mere thought of writing a business plan for a loan is intimidating to a lot of business owners.

A one-page business plan may be sufficient for certain types of small business loans (for example, online loans), but bank loans and SBA loans typically require a more in-depth business plan that delves further into your financials.

If you need to write a business plan for a loan, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to learn more about everything you need to include in your business plan to improve your chances for loan approval.

Table of Contents

What Is A Business Plan For A Loan?

10 key sections to include in your business plan, what do lenders look for in a business plan, business plan examples, resources for writing a business plan for a loan, final thoughts on writing a business plan for a loan, faqs about how to create a business plan for a loan.

A business plan is a written document that provides a complete overview of your business, including information about your business’s services, strategies, finances, and goals. All businesses should have a business plan, but a business plan is especially important when applying for a business loan .

Most business plans should include some version of the following sections. Depending on your industry and other factors, such as whether you own a startup or established business, some sections could be condensed or combined. The exact verbiage for section titles can vary, as well.

For a business plan that’s longer than one page, it’s a good idea to preface these sections with a cover page and table of contents.

Executive Summary

This section is a condensed version of your entire business plan. It will likely include:

• Details of when, how, and why you started your business
• Your company mission statements
• High-level financial information about your business
• An explanation of how funding will help your business

Depending on whether you’re a startup or an established business, you may use this section to focus on your growth strategy or your past successes.

Company Description

Use this section to delve deeper into your company’s offerings, core principles, legal structure, and leadership. Your company description should also include your unique value proposition . Describe your company’s unique strengths that will ensure your success.

Products & Services

This section should detail the products and/or services your company provides. Make clear the problem that your offerings solve. Include information such as:

• Information on your raw materials and production process (if applicable)
• Profit margins
• Whether you have or plan to file patents or copyrights

Market Analysis

Use this section to demonstrate your understanding of your overall industry and the specific markets you serve, including market trends, competitors, and the demographics of your target customers. Some companies hire a consultant or agency to perform the research for the market analysis section.

Marketing & Sales Plan

Building off your market analysis, how will you market to your target customers and beat your competitors? How will you sell to them and distribute your product? What are your sales goals and projections? Provide these details in this section.

Organization & Management

Use this section to include your organizational and leadership structure, ideally including an organizational flowchart. Also include job descriptions, qualifications, and years of experience to demonstrate why your team is capable of delivering on your company goals and is worthy of investment.

Operational Strategy

This section is used to describe your day-to-day operational processes, including information about your location, facility, equipment, inventory, and daily production. If you have a service-based business, this section may focus more on your team’s daily activities and how they contribute to long-term goals.

Financial Outlook

This section should tell lenders how much you spend and how much you make in profits. Include up to five years of data if possible, including financial documents such as:

• Income statements
• Cash flow statements
• Balance sheets
• Capital expenditure budgets
• Sales forecasts
• Projected income statements
• Information on any collateral you have to secure the loan

Depending on how much financial documentation you have, you might refer to specific documents in this section and indicate that the full documents can be found in the Appendix section.

Though startups may not have all of this data, you can make projections based on monthly or quarterly data and industry averages.

Funding Request

Now that you’ve laid out your expenses and financial projections, it’s time to make your case for a loan. Be clear about how much money you need, how you will spend it, and how you will repay the loan. Be as detailed as possible.

In the Appendix, include any supporting documents, such as financial documents referred to in the Financial Outlook section. Some other types of documents you might include in this section are:

• Business licenses  or permits
• Credit reports
• Product photos
• Marketing materials
• Letter of intent to purchase business

If you know what lenders are looking for in a business plan for a loan, you will increase your chances of approval. Learn the five things lenders want to see in your business plan, followed by five tips to create a loan-worthy business plan.

The 5 Cs Of Credit

The Five Cs of Credit is a phrase that summarizes what lenders look for when deciding whether to extend a loan to a business. Lenders will, accordingly, look for the five Cs when reviewing the business plan in your loan application. The five Cs are:

• Character: Your knowledge, experience, and creditworthiness
• Capacity: Your ability to repay the loan
• Capital: How much you have already invested in your business
• Conditions: Your market viability, considering your industry as well as overall economic conditions
• Collateral: Assets you can use to secure the loan

5 Business Plan Tips For Loan Approval

Besides emphasizing your “5 Cs,” there are a few other things you can do to make the best impression with your business plan to increase your chances of securing funding.

• Avoid Industry Jargon: Use plain English rather than industry terminology that the lender might not be familiar with. Remember that the loan underwriter may not have deep knowledge of your specific industry.
• Show Cash Flow: Cash flow is one of the most important factors that determine loan eligibility. You can even get a loan with bad credit as long as your cash flow is sufficiently high. The more insight you can provide into your past, current, and future cash flow, the better.
• Show Your Investment: Before extending a loan, the lender will want to see that you have already invested some of your own resources, such as personal savings, into your business. Be sure to include documentation that demonstrates your investment.
• Enlist Help: You will likely need some professional assistance in creating your business plan, whether that means hiring a writer, an industry consultant, or both. At the very least, you should have a third party review your business plan before you submit it as part of a loan application.
• Revise Your Plan As Needed: If this is the first time you’ve taken a close look at your business strategy and financials, you will surely learn some things about your business while creating your plan. For example, you may realize you cannot afford a business loan as large as you planned to ask for. Rather than trying to justify the number you started with, it’s better to modify your funding request (and other aspects of your plan) to align with your financial reality.

It’s easy to find templates and examples of business plans online. Though you may not want to copy and paste from a template verbatim, these samples provide a starting point and show you different ways a business plan can be structured. Here are a few to start with:

• Business plan template for a startup (from SCORE)
• Business plan template for traditional businesses  (from the SBA)
• Business plan template for retail or eCommerce (from Shopify; requires email address)

These tools and resources can help you create a solid business plan for a loan. While some free business plan creation tools are available online, you will have to pay for some options.

SBA Business Plan Resources (Free)

The SBA has a great resource in its online learning center that includes business plan worksheets . In addition to business plan templates, the SBA also helps you connect to free local business counselors who may be able to help you with your business plan.

Business Plan Software ($)

If you need extra help creating a business plan and don’t mind spending a little bit of money, consider business plan creation software. For example, LivePlan ($20/month) is business plan software that connects with QuickBooks to import your financial data to your plan.

Business Plan Writer/Consultant ($$$)

If you’re willing to invest more heavily into your business plan, consider hiring a writer or consultant that specializes in creating business plans. This option costs anywhere from $2,000 to $20,000, with the lower end of that scale typically including only basic writing services and the higher end representing a specialized industry consultant agency.

While it’s helpful to know how to write a business plan for a loan, you can always hire someone to help you draft the plan if the task is too daunting. A business plan is a worthwhile investment no matter what type of business you have or whether you are currently trying to secure business funding. Even if you don’t need a loan right now, it’s important to maintain an updated business plan to serve as a guide for your own business decisions.

Was your loan denied because of your business plan (or another reason)? Learn what to do if your business loan was denied .

Do you need a business plan to get a loan?

No, you do not always need a business plan to get a loan. Most traditional business lenders, including banks and SBA lenders, do require a business plan. However, a lot of online business lenders (such as OnDeck ) do not ask for a business plan.

How do you write a business plan for a bank loan?

To write a business plan for a bank loan, you first need to lay the groundwork by analyzing your business’s finances, strategies, and market conditions. Alternatively, you can hire someone to do this research for you. Once you have all this information, you can use a guide, template, or software to help you organize it into a business plan.

How do you write a business plan for an SBA loan?

To get an SBA loan, you will usually need a comprehensive business plan, including a detailed plan for how you intend to use the funds. On the SBA website, you can find general information about what to include in a business plan, or you can download a free business plan template. Some online SBA loan services, such as SmartBiz , do not require a business plan.

How long should a business plan be?

There is no set length for a business plan. A typical business plan used to secure financing might be 20-40 pages. A so-called “lean business plan” that serves as an internal company document for a small business may only be one or two pages.

Who writes business plans?

Business plans are often written by the business owners themselves, but you can also hire a freelance writer or consultant to write a business plan. A business plan writer will still need the business owner’s input (and access to the business’s financial documents or accounting software ) in order to prepare the plan.

• Latest Posts

Shannon Vissers

@shannonvissers.

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• How To Write A Business Plan For A Loan - July 12, 2023
• How To Check SBA Loan Status - April 25, 2023
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How to Write a Successful Business Plan for a Loan

Lisa A. Anthony is a lead writer on NerdWallet’s small-business team, primarily covering small-business lending. She has over 20 years of diverse experience in finance, lending and taxes. Prior to joining NerdWallet, Lisa worked as a writer for Intuit Turbo Tax, loan officer for Bank of America and a business analyst for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. Over the years, she has had the opportunity to interact directly with consumers on lending products and tax preparation software. Her work has appeared in The Associated Press, Washington Post and Entrepreneur, among other publications.

Sally Lauckner is an editor on NerdWallet's small-business team. She has over 15 years of experience in print and online journalism. Before joining NerdWallet in 2020, Sally was the editorial director at Fundera, where she built and led a team focused on small-business content and specializing in business financing. Her prior experience includes two years as a senior editor at SmartAsset, where she edited a wide range of personal finance content, and five years at the AOL Huffington Post Media Group, where she held a variety of editorial roles. She is based in New York City.

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Table of Contents

What does a loan business plan include?

What lenders look for in a business plan, business plan for loan examples, resources for writing a business plan.

A comprehensive and well-written business plan can be used to persuade lenders that your business is worth investing in and hopefully, improve your chances of getting approved for a small-business loan . Many lenders will ask that you include a business plan along with other documents as part of your loan application.

When writing a business plan for a loan, you’ll want to highlight your abilities, justify your need for capital and prove your ability to repay the debt. 

Here’s everything you need to know to get started.

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A successful business plan for a loan describes your financial goals and how you’ll achieve them. Although business plan components can vary from company to company, there are a few sections that are typically included in most plans.

These sections will help provide lenders with an overview of your business and explain why they should approve you for a loan.  

Executive summary

The executive summary is used to spark interest in your business. It may include high-level information about you, your products and services, your management team, employees, business location and financial details. Your mission statement can be added here as well.

To help build a lender’s confidence in your business, you can also include a concise overview of your growth plans in this section.

Company overview

The company overview is an area to describe the strengths of your business. If you didn’t explain what problems your business will solve in the executive summary, do it here. 

Highlight any experts on your team and what gives you a competitive advantage. You can also include specific details about your business such as when it was founded, your business entity type and history.

Products and services

Use this section to demonstrate the need for what you’re offering. Describe your products and services and explain how customers will benefit from having them. 

Detail any equipment or materials that you need to provide your goods and services — this may be particularly helpful if you’re looking for equipment or inventory financing . You’ll also want to disclose any patents or copyrights in this section.

Market analysis

Here you can demonstrate that you’ve done your homework and showcase your understanding of your industry, current outlook, trends, target market and competitors.

You can add details about your target market that include where you’ll find customers, ways you plan to market to them and how your products and services will be delivered to them.

» MORE: How to write a market analysis for a business plan

Marketing and sales plan

Your marketing and sales plan provides details on how you intend to attract your customers and build a client base. You can also explain the steps involved in the sale and delivery of your product or service.

At a high level, this section should identify your sales goals and how you plan to achieve them — showing a lender how you’re going to make money to repay potential debt.

Operational plan

The operational plan section covers the physical requirements of operating your business on a day-to-day basis. Depending on your type of business, this may include location, facility requirements, equipment, vehicles, inventory needs and supplies. Production goals, timelines, quality control and customer service details may also be included.

Management team

This section illustrates how your business will be organized. You can list the management team, owners, board of directors and consultants with details about their experience and the role they will play at your company. This is also a good place to include an organizational chart .

From this section, a lender should understand why you and your team are qualified to run a business and why they should feel confident lending you money — even if you’re a startup.

Funding request

In this section, you’ll explain the amount of money you’re requesting from the lender and why you need it. You’ll describe how the funds will be used and how you intend to repay the loan.

You may also discuss any funding requirements you anticipate over the next five years and your strategic financial plans for the future.

» Need help writing? Learn about the best business plan software .

Financial statements

When you’re writing a business plan for a loan, this is one of the most important sections. The goal is to use your financial statements to prove to a lender that your business is stable and will be able to repay any potential debt. 

In this section, you’ll want to include three to five years of income statements, cash flow statements and balance sheets. It can also be helpful to include an expense analysis, break-even analysis, capital expenditure budgets, projected income statements and projected cash flow statements. If you have collateral that you could put up to secure a loan, you should list it in this section as well.

If you’re a startup that doesn’t have much historical data to provide, you’ll want to include estimated costs, revenue and any other future projections you may have. Graphs and charts can be useful visual aids here.

In general, the more data you can use to show a lender your financial security, the better.

Finally, if necessary, supporting information and documents can be added in an appendix section. This may include credit histories, resumes, letters of reference, product pictures, licenses, permits, contracts and other legal documents.

Lenders will typically evaluate your loan application based on the five C’s — or characteristics — of credit : character, capacity, capital, conditions and collateral. Although your business plan won't contain everything a lender needs to complete its assessment, the document can highlight your strengths in each of these areas.

A lender will assess your character by reviewing your education, business experience and credit history. This assessment may also be extended to board members and your management team. Highlights of your strengths can be worked into the following sections of your business plan:

Executive summary.

Company overview.

Management team.

Capacity centers on your ability to repay the loan. Lenders will be looking at the revenue you plan to generate, your expenses, cash flow and your loan payment plan. This information can be included in the following sections:

Funding request.

Financial statements.

Capital is the amount of money you have invested in your business. Lenders can use it to judge your financial commitment to the business. You can use any of the following sections to highlight your financial commitment:

Operational plan.

Conditions refers to the purpose and market for your products and services. Lenders will be looking for information such as product demand, competition and industry trends. Information for this can be included in the following sections:

Market analysis.

Products and services.

Marketing and sales plan.

Collateral is an asset pledged to a lender to guarantee the repayment of a loan. This can be equipment, inventory, vehicles or something else of value. Use the following sections to include information on assets:

» MORE: How to get a business loan

Writing a business plan for a loan application can be intimidating, especially when you’re just getting started. It may be helpful to use a business plan template or refer to an existing sample as you’re going through the draft process.

Here are a few examples that you may find useful:

Business Plan Outline — Colorado Small Business Development Center

Business Plan Template — Iowa Small Business Development Center

Writing a Business Plan — Maine Small Business Development Center

Business Plan Workbook — Capital One

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U.S. Small Business Administration. The SBA offers a free self-paced course on writing a business plan. The course includes several videos, objectives for you to accomplish, as well as worksheets you can complete.

SCORE. SCORE, a nonprofit organization and resource partner of the SBA, offers free assistance that includes a step-by-step downloadable template to help startups create a business plan, and mentors who can review and refine your plan virtually or in person.

Small Business Development Centers. Similarly, your local SBDC can provide assistance with business planning and finding access to capital. These organizations also have virtual and in-person training courses, as well as opportunities to consult with business experts.

Business plan software. Although many business plan software platforms require a subscription, these tools can be useful if you want a templated approach that can break the process down for you step-by-step. Many of these services include a range of examples and templates, instruction videos and guides, and financial dashboards, among other features. You may also be able to use a free trial before committing to one of these software options.

A loan business plan outlines your business’s objectives, products or services, funding needs and finances. The goal of this document is to convince lenders that they should approve you for a business loan.

Not all lenders will require a business plan, but you’ll likely need one for bank and SBA loans. Even if it isn’t required, however, a lean business plan can be used to bolster your loan application.

Lenders ask for a business plan because they want to know that your business is and will continue to be financially stable. They want to know how you make money, spend money and plan to achieve your financial goals. All of this information allows them to assess whether you’ll be able to repay a loan and decide if they should approve your application.

On a similar note...

How to write a business plan for a bank loan?

Whether you need a bank loan to start up a new business, grow an existing business or anything in between, writing a business plan can help make it a reality!

It involves outlining your goals and explaining how you plan to achieve them. A professional business plan is crucial to obtaining a bank loan and planning your outlook for both the short and long-term future.

Yet, most entrepreneurs view writing a business plan as a daunting task. But, it doesn't have to be!

In this guide, we explain what writing a business plan for a bank loan entails, why you need one, what tool you should use, and what content should be included.

Ready? Let's get started!

In this guide:

What is a business plan?

Do i need a business plan to secure a business loan, do banks actually look at business plans or is it just a box-ticking exercise, what do banks look for in a business plan, what tool should i use to write a business plan for a bank loan, what does a business plan for a bank loan look like, do i need a 3 or 5 year business plan for a bank, how long does a business plan for a bank loan need to be, key financial metrics and ratios banks look at when deciding on a loan application, examples and templates of business plans for a bank loan, pdf vs. powerpoint pitch: what format should you use to present your business plan to the bank, can i apply for multiple loans at the same time.

• Is it worth using a credit broker to apply to multiple lenders?

How long does the loan approval process usually take?

Key takeaways.

A business plan is a written document that contains two key parts:

• A written presentation that outlines what the company does, its medium term objectives and explains how it plans to achieve them.
• A financial plan that includes a cash flow statement, profit and loss statement and a balance sheet.

To get a business loan approved you need to convince the lender that your business will be able to repay it.

Regulated lenders also have legal obligations to demonstrate to their regulators that they are lending responsibly, meaning that your business can afford the loan.

Therefore, whilst a business plan is not strictly necessary to obtain a business loan, most banks will likely ask you to provide one, as it provides an objective way of assessing your borrowing capacity and to demonstrate affordability.

Imagine the following situation, a business borrows £100k from a regulated bank, and then goes bust. The regulator decides to investigate the bank. The bank can then provide the business plan to help demonstrate that the loan was affordable and that it behaved responsibly.

Need a convincing business plan?

The Business Plan Shop makes it easy to create a financial forecast to assess the potential profitability of your projects, and write a business plan that’ll wow investors.

Most banks will look at your business plan when you hand in a loan application. How in-depth the bank looks at it though will depend on whether you are borrowing against assets or cash flow.

Asset-based lending

Borrowing against assets involves lending money to businesses whilst using their assets as collateral. These loans are also called secured loans.

Secured loans help reduce risks for lenders, they can seize the collateral if the borrower is unable to repay and sell the asset to recoup part of their losses. That's what happens with mortgages, for example.

Banks usually have pre-set loan-to-value ratios (LTVs) for the most common types of assets (property, equipment, vehicles etc.).

A loan-to-value assessment simply compares the appraised value of your asset against the value of the business loan.

For example, if you're buying a car worth £10,000 and the LTV ratio used by the bank is 70%, they can lend you up to £7,000 and will take the car as collateral.

The bank still needs to assess that you can afford the £7,000 business loan. They might ask you for a business plan, but might decide not to do so given that it's a small amount. They might simply look at your trading history or ask for a personal guarantee from the business owner instead.

BDC Bank - a Canadian bank - says that "financial institutions don’t use the same loan-to-value ratio for all asset types because of different asset liquidity levels".

In layman's terms, liquidity means how easy it is to sell the asset. If it's a delivery van, it's very easy as there is an established secondhand market (high liquidity), if it's a chemical plant it might take up to a year (low liquidity).

In a nutshell, the easier it is to sell the asset (if it needs to be seized), the higher the loan amount.

According to BDC Bank , likely LTV ratios for common asset types are:

• Marketable securities (high in liquidity): 90%
• Accounts receivables: 75%
• Commercial and industrial real estate: 65% to 100%
• Inventory (low in liquidity): 50%.

Capital Source Group - an alternate lender - says that some banks require a down payment of up to 20% of the market value of the equipment, referring to firms seeking finance to purchase key equipment, and mentions an indicative baseline LTV ratio of 50%.

Cash-flow-based lending

As we've seen above, asset-based lending is relatively straightforward, and lower risk as the asset is used as collateral. The decision making is more complicated if your business borrows against cash flows (for e.g. working capital purposes).

Cash-flow-based borrowing involves lending money to businesses based on their predicted cash flows. The bank has to assess how much you can borrow based on historical and projected financials.

Doing so requires to have a clear understanding of the future cash flows of the business, which can only be obtained through a business plan.

Most banks ask for business plans when you apply for a business loan because they need it to understand:

Who the borrower is

Whether or not there is collateral.

• If there is a trading history that supports the cash flow forecast
• What borrowing capacity and affordability can be inferred from the forecast

Firstly, the bank has to understand what entity or person it is lending money to. For example, if you take over a business, you could buy either its assets or shares.

If you were to buy their assets, a new company would likely be created but if you were to purchase their shares, you could do it directly or via a holding company (likelier option).

Depending on which option you choose, the bank has to decide whether it's lending to your current business, yourself or the holding company. The answer to this question then determines the level of risk the bank is undertaking.

Next, the bank has to decide whether or not there is sufficient collateral. Can it secure the loan against the business assets or does it need to request a personal warranty from the business owner(s)?

It will assess:

• Whether or not your current business has any assets that can be used as collateral
• If you, the business owner, have a house or cash in the bank or can offer a credible personal guarantee
• Whether or not the holding company will provide its shares as collateral or if it needs to ask its shareholders for a personal guarantee (or both)

Once the bank understands the value of the security, it can better estimate the borrowing capacity of the entity.

Does the trading history support the cash flow forecast

The bank will want to know if there is any trading history to support your cash flow forecast.

If there isn't, it becomes harder to judge and riskier from a lender's viewpoint.

Borrowing capacity and affordability: total indebtedness and credit metrics

Lastly, the bank will estimate your business credit score by taking into consideration: whether or not you have any outstanding debt, what your past repayments were like, and credit metrics such as fixed charge coverage ratio, net debt-to-equity ratio, and interest coverage ratio (we'll detail these 3 ratios later in this guide).

Writing a business plan can be both tedious and difficult if you start from scratch. Luckily for you, online business plan software can help you write a professional plan in no time.

There are several advantages to using specialised software like The Business Plan Shop:

• You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan
• You can be inspired by already written business plan templates
• You can easily make your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you
• You get a professional document, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank
• You can easily compare your forecast against actuals from your accounting system to ensure you are on track to deliver your plan, and adjust your forecast to keep it up to date as time goes by

If you are interested in this type of solution, you can try our software for free by signing up to The Business Plan Shop today .

There are seven key sections that any business plan for a bank loan must include:

• Executive summary
• Company Overview
• Products and services
• Market analysis
• Financial projections

Let's have a look at each one in more detail.

1. Executive summary

Your executive summary should provide the bank with a quick snapshot of your business (who you are, what you sell, and what your financial projections look like). Remember that this is the first section of your business plan that they will look at - you need to keep them interested and do not need to go into depth.

You should also include details such as the loan amount sought and its purpose, providing the bank with a clear understanding of how the funds will be utilized to support your business's growth and operations.

For example, if you're a small manufacturing company seeking a loan to purchase new equipment, your executive summary would outline the specific amount needed for equipment acquisition and how it will contribute to increasing production capacity and efficiency.

Above is an example of how the "Our Ask" section which details the funding requirements might look like. This image was taken from one of our business plan templates .

Additionally, the executive summary may highlight any collateral or security offered to mitigate the lender's risk.

This could include assets such as real estate, equipment, inventory, or accounts receivable that you're willing to pledge as security for the loan.

By clearly outlining the collateral available to secure the loan, you demonstrate your commitment to fulfilling your financial obligations and provide assurance to the bank regarding the loan's repayment.

Moreover, the executive summary may touch upon the key terms and conditions your business is willing to accept, such as interest rates, repayment schedules, and loan covenants, to ensure the loan aligns with your business's financial objectives and capabilities.

For instance, if you're a small retail store seeking a loan to open a second store, you may try to negotiate a loan repayment holiday to defer the principal repayments until after the second store has started trading in order to improve cash flow.

2. Company overview

In this section, you should explain what structure your business takes up (sole trader, partnership or limited liability company). This way, the bank understands whether or not you are liable if your business defaults on its loan. If you are not they might ask you for a personal guarantee.

If you are a partnership or limited liability company, state who your partners are and what percentage of the business they own. Also, outline any skills and experience they have that make them suitable for their role.

Finally, you should state where your business(es) are located and why that particular location was chosen (for example, it could be because of the parking slots available or transport links, making it very accessible for potential customers).

3. Products and services

You should include a detailed list of the products or services that you sell. Whilst you don't have to specify every single item or service, you should aim to include all of the key ones.

For example, for a hair salon, this might be hair care, washing, stylish haircuts, combing, hair colouring, waving, and hair straightening.

4. Market analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan for a bank loan is where you bring together your local and national market research. Using charts and graphs along with text makes it easier to illustrate your points clearly.

You should also state who you plan to target and the competitors in your local market. For example, if you were a coffee shop business, you could target people seeking a takeaway coffee, those looking for a lunch or snack or people looking for a place to work.

Finally, you should state the regulation in effect in the local market and whether there are any plans to make changes in the future (by the council for example).

5. Strategy

Your strategy section helps explain how you plan to make your business a success. Both marketing and pricing strategies feature in this section.

Explain how you've determined your prices and whether or not they differ from your competitors. Remember that this will depend on your overall pricing strategy (cost-plus pricing, competitive, price skimming, etc.).

Your marketing plan should explain how you plan to attract and retain customers. For example, you could have an attractive storefront with your logo to encourage potential customers to visit inside. You might also offer loyalty cards (for example, buy 3 burgers, get the fourth one free).

Finally, key milestones must also be outlined so that both parties are aware of what needs to be achieved within an agreed-upon timeframe along with measures taken against any foreseeable risks and mitigants related thereto.

6. Operations

The operations section of your business plan for a bank loan should include information about your staffing team. List any current and future recruitment plans, employee skills, experience and what roles they are going to take up.

Plus, you should state what suppliers you chose and why. For example, you might have chosen a particular supplier thanks to their eco-friendly stance or brand reputation.

7. Financial projections

Arguably the most important section in your business plan for a bank, your financial projections help the bank decide whether or not they should lend to your company.

This section includes your balance sheet, profit and loss statement and cash flow forecast. Figures from these three statements are used to compute key ratios (see the section below).

Profit and loss statement

A projected P&L statement shows how much money the company might make and how much it will grow in the future.

It helps stakeholders understand how successful the company could be.

Balance sheet

A balance sheet shows what your business owns (assets), what it owes (liabilities), and what has been invested by the owners (equity).

Looking at a balance sheet enables investors, lenders, and business owners to assess the capital structure of the business.

One key aspect of this analysis is achieved by calculating key liquidity (short-term) and solvability (long-term) ratios to understand if the company can pay its debts as they fall due.

Cash flow statement

A projected cash flow statement is a document used to plan out how much cash your business will generate (inflows) and spend over a certain period (outflows).

This document shows the expected cash flows from the operations, investments and other financial activities.

Having this information can help you decide how much money your business needs to save for future expenses or investments, as well as anticipate potential cash shortfalls.

When seeking a bank loan, one common question that arises is the duration of the business plan required.

Understanding whether you need a 3-year plan or a more detailed 5-year money lending business plan can impact your credit application process.

For startups, and most small businesses, a 3-year business plan strikes the right balance between providing a clear vision of the future and not overwhelming with excessive detail.

This shorter timeframe is also often preferred by banks as it allows for a focused projection of your business's trajectory without straying too far into the unknown.

For these reasons, three-years is the de facto standard business plan duration for a loan application.

That being said, it might make sense for businesses to use a 5-year business plan in certain situations. For example when there are delayed cash flows because of a longer development or sales cycle or when the loan is used to fund significant capital investments.

Consider a manufacturing company investing in a new factory to increase production capacity. A 5-year plan would detail the initial investment and leave enough time to show the expected returns and the long-term impact on revenue, costs, and market position.

This longer-term view offers a more comprehensive picture of your business's growth potential and can demonstrate to the bank that you have a clear strategy for sustained success.

In summary, whether you opt for a 3 or 5-year business plan depends on the nature of your business, its growth trajectory, and the level of detail required to support your loan application.

Like most business plans, there's no specific number of pages that yours must have. A good rule of thumb, however, is to keep it between 15 and 35 pages.

As long as you've covered all of the key sections, ranging from the executive summary to the financial projections, your business plan for a bank loan should be good to go.

Remember, quality is more important than quantity.

It's worth noting that ratio targets set by lenders are industry dependent.

There are usually three key financial ratios that banks calculate before lending money:

1. Fixed charged coverage ratio

This solvency ratio assesses how much headroom a business has over its upcoming debt repayments.

It is calculated by dividing the Cash flow available for debt service (or CFADS), which measures how much cash flow is available to pay off debt obligations, by the amount to be paid to service the debt (interest plus principal repayments).

It is one of the main ratios used by lenders to assess the borrowing capacity and the financial risk of a given business.

For businesses utilising bank debt, lenders usually expect the fixed charge coverage ratio to be above 2.0x, which implies that the business is expected to generate twice as much cash as is needed to service the debt, leaving a healthy buffer.

In any case, the ratio should be above 1.0x, below 1.0x the business is not generating enough cash to service its debt which puts lenders at risk.

For example, if your business records a CFADS of £500,000 and total debt service amounting to £250,000 (£50,000 of interest payments, and £200,000 of principal repayments), it will have a fixed charge coverage ratio of 2.0x.

2. Debt-to-EBITDA

This solvency ratio is used to assess the level of debt and borrowing capacity of the business. It compares the level of debt to the firm’s EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization), used as a proxy for the operating cash flow.

For example, if your company has debt worth £20m and an EBITDA of £5M, your debt to EBITDA ratio would be £20m/£5m = 4.0x.

In simple terms, a company with a debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 4.0x would need at least 4 years to repay its debt. Whether or not this is too high will depend on the sector and the risk appetite of the lender.

3. Interest coverage ratio 

This solvency ratio is commonly used by lenders to measure a business's ability to pay interest on its debt. It compares the firm’s EBITDA, used as a proxy for the operating cash flow, with the amount of interest expense due in a financial year. 

Let's assume that you are writing a restaurant business plan for bank loan. Your business has an EBITDA of £500,000 and interest expenses amounting to £50,000, meaning it will have an interest coverage ratio of 10.0x.

The rationale behind this ratio is that, if the company was to default on its debt, lenders could potentially agree to delay the principal repayments as long as the company remains able to at least pay the interest. In that scenario, their capital would remain at risk but lenders would still be able to earn a return.

The higher the interest coverage ratio the better. Targets set by lenders are industry dependent. An interest coverage ratio higher than 4.0x is generally a good starting point.

Most of the business plan templates offered by The Business Plan Shop are examples of companies seeking bank loans and so can be used to structure your own plan.

We have templates to fit various industries including hospitality, retail, services, construction, industrials and more.

When preparing to present your business plan to a bank, one crucial decision is choosing the right format.

Should you go with a traditional PDF document or opt for a more dynamic PowerPoint pitch?

Using a PDF format is usually recommended to present a money-lending business plan. What matters to the bank is the content of your document, and the PDF format offers a comprehensive and structured way to present your business's details, financial projections, and strategies.

This format allows you to include detailed written explanations, charts, and graphs, providing a thorough overview of your business to the bank.

PDFs are particularly suitable for conveying complex information in a clear and organized manner, making it easier for bank officials to review and assess your loan application.

Does it mean that PowerPoint should be avoided at all costs?

Not necessarily, a PowerPoint pitch offers a visual and concise way to present the main takeaways from your business plan to the bank, and could therefore be used to complement your PDF document.

This format allows you to highlight key points, trends, and projections using engaging visuals, bullet points, and diagrams.

PowerPoint presentations could be effective for capturing the attention of bank officials during meetings or presentations, enabling you to convey your business's essence and potential compellingly.

In conclusion, a business plan in PDF is expected when presenting a business plan to the bank, but a PowerPoint can also be provided alongside.

As a small business owner seeking financing, you may wonder if it's possible to cast a wider net by applying for multiple loans simultaneously.

While it may seem like a strategic approach to increase your chances of securing funding, there are important factors to consider before pursuing this avenue.

Impact on your credit score

The first factor you need to consider is the potential implications for your credit score, financial stability, and relationship with lenders.

Applying for multiple loans within a short timeframe can result in multiple hard inquiries on your credit report, which may lower your credit score and raise red flags for lenders.

What happens if your business loan request is denied?

The second factor you need to consider is what happens if your initial business loan requests are denied.

Despite your best efforts, there's always the possibility that your business plan for a bank loan may not be enticing enough.

If your business plan fails to meet the lender's requirements or to convince them, it could be worth revisiting and refining your business plan, addressing any weaknesses or gaps highlighted by the lender, before submitting another application to another bank.

For these reasons, it is usually more prudent to approach lenders one by one, to take on board their feedback and wait for a successful offer before playing the market to find the best offer.

Is it worth using a credit broker?

Navigating the loan application process can be daunting, especially when considering multiple lenders.

One option to streamline this process is to enlist the services of a credit broker.

However, it's essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of using a credit broker compared to applying to banks independently.

Let's delve into what a credit broker is and whether it's worth utilizing their services for your financing needs.

What is a credit broker?

A credit broker is a professional intermediary who assists individuals and businesses in finding suitable loan options from multiple lenders.

These brokers have extensive knowledge of the lending market and can help match borrowers with lenders that align with their financial needs and preferences.

Credit brokers typically charge a fee for their services, either upfront or upon successful loan approval.

For example, if you're a small business owner in the construction industry seeking financing for a new project.

Instead of approaching individual banks on your own, you'd engage a credit broker to help you navigate the lending landscape.

The broker evaluates your business's financial situation, objectives, and borrowing requirements, then identifies and presents you with tailored loan options from various lenders, saving you time and effort in the process.

Benefits and drawbacks of using a credit broker vs applying to banks independently

Using a credit broker offers several potential benefits, such as access to a wider network of lenders, personalized loan recommendations, and assistance throughout the application process.

Brokers can also negotiate on behalf of borrowers to secure favorable loan terms and conditions.

However, it's essential to consider the drawbacks as well, including the cost of using a broker, the potential for conflicts of interest, and the risk of relying solely on the broker's advice without conducting independent research.

For example, if you were a small business owner in construction, using a credit broker may provide access to specialized lenders familiar with the construction industry's unique financing needs.

The broker can negotiate competitive interest rates and favorable repayment terms, ultimately saving the business owner money and time.

But, you must carefully weigh the broker's fee against the potential savings and ensure transparency in the broker's recommendations to make an informed decision.

In summary, whether it's worth using a credit broker to apply to multiple lenders depends on your specific financial situation, borrowing needs, and preferences.

While brokers offer valuable expertise and assistance, it's essential to evaluate the costs and benefits carefully and consider alternative approaches before making a decision.

Understanding the timeline for the loan approval process is crucial for effectively managing your business's financial needs and expectations.

While the duration can vary depending on various factors, having a general understanding of the typical timeline can help you plan accordingly and avoid unnecessary delays.

Let's explore what factors may influence the timeline for the loan approval process.

The loan approval process typically involves several stages, including application submission, review and assessment by the lender, underwriting, and final approval.

The duration of each stage can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the loan application, the lender's internal processes, and external factors such as market conditions or regulatory requirements.

While some loans may be approved relatively quickly, others may require more time for thorough evaluation and due diligence.

For example, suppose you're a small business owner in the manufacturing sector seeking a term loan to expand your production facility.

After submitting your loan application to a bank, the initial review and assessment may take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the lender's workload and responsiveness.

Once the application passes the initial review stage, it undergoes underwriting, where the lender evaluates your business's creditworthiness, financial stability, and repayment ability.

This stage can also vary in duration, ranging from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the loan and the thoroughness of the underwriting process.

Banks know how long their processes usually take so they will be able to give you a clear timeline when you apply. They also appreciate that you may take your business elsewhere if they are too slow to respond, so they usually try to be as fast as possible to be competitive.

On your side, you can speed up the timeline by making sure you have all the documents ready beforehand (including the various documents needed to clear anti-money-laundering checks), and by staying proactive and engaged throughout the process and working closely with your lender.

Now that we've covered various aspects of crafting a business plan for bank financing, let's summarize the key points to remember:.

• A business plan is mandatory in order to secure a bank loan.
• Use a business plan software (such as The Business Plan Shop) to ensure you write a professional business plan with all the information that banks expect to see.
• Choose a 3-year plan presented in PDF, unless advised otherwise by the bank.
• Take time to understand the loan application process before submitting your application.
• Be prepared for the possibility of your initial loan request being denied, and know how to address and improve your business plan if it fails to secure funding the first time.
• Remember that banks look at credit metrics in different ways, a rejection by one lender doesn't mean you won't get approved by another.
• Consider using a credit broker to apply to multiple lenders if their services align with your financing goals.

We hope that this guide has helped you to better understand how to write a business plan for a bank loan. Do not hesitate to contact us if you still have questions.

Also on The Business Plan Shop

• How investors analyse business plans
• Business plan vs budget: what's the difference?
• Business plan for grant application

Know someone looking to take out a bank loan for their business? Share this article with them!

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

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Why Do I Need a Business Plan?

Sections of a business plan, the bottom line.

• Small Business

How to Write a Business Plan for a Loan

How to secure business financing

Matt Webber is an experienced personal finance writer, researcher, and editor. He has published widely on personal finance, marketing, and the impact of technology on contemporary arts and culture.

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A business plan is a document that explains what a company’s objectives are and how it will achieve them. It contains a road map for the company from a marketing, financial, and operational standpoint. Some business plans are more detailed than others, but they are used by all types of businesses, from large, established companies to small startups.

If you are applying for a business loan , your lender may want to see your business plan. Your plan can prove that you understand your market and your business model and that you are realistic about your goals. Even if you don’t need a business plan to apply for a loan, writing one can improve your chances of securing finance.

Key Takeaways

• Many lenders will require you to write a business plan to support your loan application.
• Though every business plan is different, there are a number of sections that appear in every business plan.
• A good business plan will define your company’s strategic priorities for the coming years and explain how you will try to achieve growth.
• Lenders will assess your plan against the “five Cs”: character, capacity, capital, conditions, and collateral.

There are many reasons why all businesses should have a business plan . A business plan can improve the way that your company operates, but a well-written plan is also invaluable for attracting investment.

On an operational level, a well-written business plan has several advantages. A good plan will explain how a company is going to develop over time and will lay out the risks and contingencies that it may encounter along the way.

A business plan can act as a valuable strategic guide, reminding executives of their long-term goals amid the chaos of day-to-day business. It also allows businesses to measure their own success—without a plan, it can be difficult to determine whether a business is moving in the right direction.

A business plan is also valuable when it comes to dealing with external organizations. Indeed, banks and venture capital firms often require a viable business plan before considering whether they’ll provide capital to new businesses.

Even if a business is well-established, lenders may want to see a solid business plan before providing financing. Lenders want to reduce their risk, so they want to see that a business has a serious and realistic plan in place to generate income and repay the loan.

Every business is different, and so is every business plan. Nevertheless, most business plans contain a number of generic sections. Common sections are: executive summary, company overview, products and services, market analysis, marketing and sales plan, operational plan, and management team. If you are applying for a loan, you should also include a funding request and financial statements.

Let’s look at each section in more detail.

Executive Summary

The executive summary is a summary of the information in the rest of your business plan, but it’s also where you can create interest in your business.

You should include basic information about your business, including what you do, where you are based, your products, and how long you’ve been in business. You can also mention what inspired you to start your business, your key successes so far, and your growth plans.

Company Overview

In this section, focus on the core strengths of your business, the problem you want to solve, and how you plan to address it.

Here, you should also mention any key advantages that your business has over your competitors, whether this is operating in a new market or a unique approach to an existing one. You should also include key statistics in this section, such as your annual turnover and number of employees.

Products and Services

In this section, provide some details of what you sell. A lender doesn’t need to know all the technical details of your products but will want to see that they are desirable.

You can also include information on how you make your products, or how you provide your services. This information will be useful to a lender if you are looking for financing to grow your business.

Market Analysis

A market analysis is a core section of your business plan. Here, you need to demonstrate that you understand the market you are operating in, and how you are different from your competitors. If you can find statistics on your market, and particularly on how it is projected to grow over the next few years, put them in this section.

Marketing and Sales Plan

Your marketing and sales plan gives details on what kind of new customers you are looking to attract, and how you are going to connect with them. This section should contain your sales goals and link these to marketing or advertising that you are planning.

If you are looking to expand into a new market, or to reach customers that you haven’t before, you should explain the risks and opportunities of doing so.

Operational Plan

This section explains the basic requirements of running your business on a day-to-day basis. Your exact requirements will vary depending on the type of business you run, but be as specific as possible.

If you need to rent office space, for example, you should include the cost in your operational plan. You should also include the cost of staff, equipment, and any raw materials required to run your business.

Management Team

The management team section is one of the most important sections in your business plan if you are applying for a loan. Your lender will want reassurance that you have a skilled, experienced, competent, and reliable senior management team in place.

Even if you have a small team, you should explain what makes each person qualified for their position. If you have a large team, you should include an organizational chart to explain how your team is structured.

Funding Request

If you are applying for a loan, you should add a funding request. This is where you explain how much money you are looking to borrow, and explain in detail how you are going to use it.

The most important part of the funding-request section is to explain how the loan you are asking for would improve the profitability of your business, and therefore allow you to repay your loan.

Financial Statements

Most lenders will also ask you to provide evidence of your business finances as part of your application. Graphs and charts are often a useful addition to this section, because they allow your lender to understand your finances at a glance.

The overall goal of providing financial statements is to show that your business is profitable and stable. Include three to five years of income statements, cash flow statements, and balance sheets. It can also be useful to provide further analysis, as well as projections of how your business will grow in the coming years.

What Do Lenders Look for in a Business Plan?

Lenders want to see that your business is stable, that you understand the market you are operating in, and that you have realistic plans for growth.

Your lender will base their decision on what are known as the “five Cs.” These are:

• Character : You can stress your good character in your executive summary, company overview, and your management team section.
• Capacity : This is, essentially, your ability to repay the loan. Your lender will look at your growth plans, your funding request, and your financial statements in order to assess this.
• Capital : This is the amount of money you already have in your business. The larger and more established your business is, the more likely you are to be approved for finance, so highlight your capital throughout your business plan.
• Conditions : Conditions refer to market conditions. In your market analysis, you should be able to prove that your business is well-positioned in relation to your target market and competitors.
• Collateral : Depending on your loan, you may be asked to provide collateral , so you should provide information on the assets you own in your operational plan.

How Long Does It Take to Write a Business Plan?

The length of time it takes to write a business plan depends on your business, but you should take your time to ensure it is thorough and correct. A business plan has advantages beyond applying for a loan, providing a strategic focus for your business.

What Should You Avoid When Writing a Business Plan?

The most common mistake that business owners make when writing a business plan is to be unrealistic about their growth potential. Your lender is likely to spot overly optimistic growth projections, so try to keep it reasonable.

Should I Hire Someone to Write a Business Plan for My Business?

You can hire someone to write a business plan for your business, but it can often be better to write it yourself. You are likely to understand your business better than an external consultant.

Writing a business plan can benefit your business, whether you are applying for a loan or not. A good business plan can help you develop strategic priorities and stick to them. It describes how you are going to grow your business, which can be valuable to lenders, who will want to see that you are able to repay a loan that you are applying for.

U.S. Small Business Administration. “ Write Your Business Plan .”

U.S. Small Business Administration. “ Market Research and Competitive Analysis .”

U.S. Small Business Administration. “ Fund Your Business .”

Navy Federal Credit Union. “ The 5 Cs of Credit .”

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How To Write a Business Plan For a Loan

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Getting the funds you need is a critical step for any new business . Many startups rely on business loans to get off the ground, but securing that loan hinges on a strong business plan . This plan acts as a roadmap for your small business by outlining your goals, strategies and financial projections . It convinces lenders of your viability and increases your chances of getting approved.

While writing a business plan might seem intimidating, understanding its key components and how lenders evaluate them can empower entrepreneurs to create a persuasive document. Here's what you need to know.

Do you need a business plan to get a loan?

Absolutely. A business plan is essentially a detailed loan proposal. It addresses the questions lenders have about your business, showcasing its potential and your preparedness. It demonstrates the time and effort you've invested in planning and research, building confidence in your venture.

If you want to borrow money to fund your company, then, you need a business plan that's detailed and requires a plethora of information. It tells the lender the business type, target market, strategies and more. It also reveals how you plan to make money, your projected expenses and expected revenues. Before taking on this challenging task, you must learn how to write a business plan .

Key elements of loan-focused business plan

Creating a business plan for a loan takes time, thought and effort. And it needs to contain the following components:

Executive summary

Even though the executive summary is the first paragraph in a business plan , it's the last section you should write. The executive summary summarizes the main points of your plan and tells the lender why it should invest in your business idea . It's a snapshot of your business's highlights and states how much money you want to borrow.

You can choose a business plan template for loan requests to simplify the plan's writing process instead of starting from scratch. Many templates suggest including your mission statement in the executive summary . The core goal of this initial section is to spark the lender 's interest in your company. If you can do that, the lender will continue reading it.

Company description

This section tells the lender your business type and the industry it's in. It allows business owners to highlight their previous work, jobs and skills to demonstrate experience in the field. It states where your business will operate and who will run the company.

This section also provides the ideal opportunity to explain your commitment to the startup . Be as transparent and detailed as possible when describing this new endeavor. The number one goal of this section is for the lender to fully understand what your business does. Describing the business model you plan to use is also helpful, along with the growth plan you propose if you are successful.

Products or services

Every business sells products, services or a combination of both. Selling something — whether it be a product or a service — is how a business generates revenue. Start by describing in detail what your business will sell. Next, highlight the features that set your products and services apart from those of your competitors. List the patents or copyrights of your goods, if applicable, and list the things your business needs to operate. For example, you might need a building from which to operate or equipment to produce products.

Market analysis

Creating a business that offers a unique product or service is nearly impossible today. As a result, your business will likely compete with other businesses. You must address this by presenting a competitive analysis of your venture’s business goals and how it will stand out from others in the field.

What other local businesses have similar products or services? How do you plan to attract some of this market? Do you own relevant intellectual property that may help you to achieve success?

Include the results of your market research in the market analysis section of your business plan . You might include some details about your target customers, such as their demographics, and your planned pricing . Finally, include a brief synopsis of your marketing plan in this section..

Competitor analysis

Lenders want to know if your business will succeed before they approve your loan proposal. Therefore, they want to know that you've thoroughly researched your competition. You can list your competitors in this section, including their products and services, and what you see as your competitive advantages over them.

Next , give a more detailed analysis of what differentiates your services and products from theirs. What is unique about your company? What advantages will your company have over its competitors? Keep in mind that lenders base loan decisions on risk levels. If the lender can't see the need for your business's products, they might turn down the loan. The goal of this section is to convince the lender that there is a demand for your company's products and services..

Marketing plan

Next , include specific details about your marketing strategy , including financial plans . How much money will you spend on marketing efforts? What methods will you use? How do you know they'll be effective? Marketing is a massive part of a business strategy, so your plan must answer these questions.

Operational plan

The operational plan explains how you'll execute your business startup to the lender . It reveals more details about your company's location, its target market and the equipment and software you'll use. Additionally, it explains the processes you'll use to produce or sell your goods.

Management structure

A business plan must also list your management team . You might be the sole owner of the business, but will you work alone? If not, who will work for you?

Not only should you list colleagues’ names, but you should also describe each person's experience, skills and qualifications. Additionally, explain staffers’ roles, duties and responsibilities and the hierarchy of the management structure.

Funding request

The purpose of writing a business plan is to request a loan. Therefore, you must include your funding requirements in the business plan . How much money do you want to borrow? How will you spend it? You should explain in detail how you will spend the funds, as this validates your need for the loan. The lender can see if you have a clear plan and if the plan makes sense.

Financial projections

This next section outlines your company's projected profitability, which is vital for repaying the money you borrow. Lenders spend a lot of time reading through the financial parts of a funding request .

When writing this section, begin by stating your projected annual revenues for the next three to five years. Next , include income statements to highlight your company's potential net profits. You can also include forecasted balance sheets , which help the lender see your assets, liabilities and capital. Graphs and other elements can be useful in this section.

Be sure to cover how business financing will allow your plan to flourish. Including a break-even report is helpful. This metric reveals how much you must sell to cover your expenses. For a lender , it reveals safety margins, helping lenders assess risk levels.

This section offers a place to add supporting documents to the plan. It should contain a list of your business licenses and permits needed to operate the company. You can also include your management teams ' resumes and a copy of your lease agreement for the space you'll rent. Include any other documents the lender might want to see, such as contractor or business arrangements.

Many businesses hire lawyers to create their business entities. Include these legal documents if you created a business entity. If you haven't created one yet, you should consider which type to use. An LLC is a good option, as it provides tax benefits and liability protection. You can look for the best LLC loans if you choose this route.

How lenders score your business loan application

You submit a business plan to secure funding, but a lender must approve the plan before you receive the loan. Lenders determine how to respond to business loan requests by analyzing the business plans they receive. To do this, they look at five primary things.

Your character reveals intangible qualities about you and those who will work with and for you. Lenders look for integrity and honesty and try to answer the question, "Is this person trustworthy?"

Lenders analyze your personal credit history and assess your credit score to determine your creditworthiness. In addition, lenders evaluate your job experience, reputation and qualifications. They also look at your previous endeavors to determine the risk level associated with offering you a business loan.

Lenders spend a lot of time analyzing a borrower's ability to repay the money they borrow, and they call this capacity. Are you capable of repaying the money if they approve the loan? To determine the answer, your lender will thoroughly review your projected revenue.

Additionally, lenders analyze the forecasted financial statements , including such financial information as cash flow statements . Lenders review the products and services you'll offer to ensure there is demand and consider your funding request and your plans for using it.

Next , the lender looks closely at your capital. They want to see how much money you have invested in the business and compare it with the amount you're requesting.

Your investment shows your level of commitment. A large investment into your business startup shows the lender you're serious about making it work. It also tells them you've researched it, worked hard on planning it and expect to make a good profit from it. Therefore, make sure your business plan clearly indicates your investment amount.

In addition to your investment, the lender wants to know what you can offer as collateral. For example, you could offer the building you'll operate out of as collateral if you own it or have equity in it. You could also use equipment, machines or vehicles. Being willing to offer assets as collateral improves your odds of getting the loan.

Finally, lenders will look at the following conditions:

• Demand for your service: Proving a high demand for your products is critical to get a loan approved.
• Competition: Your lender will evaluate the competition and look for things that distinguish your business from your competitors.
• Trends and marketing strategies: Will there be a demand for your products in the future? If so, does your plan outline how you'll reach more people? Lenders look at your digital marketing strategies, as this is the newer trend. It also looks at your advertising strategies, including your website, SEO strategies and inbound marketing plans.

Summary of Money's how to write a business plan for a loan

Learning how to write a business plan for a loan is essential. Your chances of getting approved for startup funding are significantly higher with a clear, thorough and well-researched business plan. Your plan should contain a comprehensive description for each section, allowing the lender to learn as much as possible about your business endeavor. After submitting it, the lender will use the 5 Cs to analyze your loan proposal. A well-written and researched business plan is imperative for any new business startup or newly formed company that needs to borrow some cash.

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Get Your Loan Approval Quickly

Business plans for bank & sba loans, when it comes to bank and small business administration (sba) loans for startups and acquisitions, a business plan is the cornerstone of your funding eligibility..

Strategize. Secure. Succeed.

Unlocking business potential with sba-backed loans, bank & sba loans offer a powerful springboard for budding entrepreneurs and established businesses to launch and grow ventures. .

Starting a business journey is a monumental step, and the right financial backing can make all the difference . Securing a business loan, especially one guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA), comes with its set of stringent standards . Central to these requirements is the necessity of a comprehensive business plan . At Masterplans, we recognize the significance of this document and the rigorous standards it must adhere to, ensuring your business is set on a path to success .

“ I’m out there trying to find real estate and sign leases and hire management teams. I don’t have time to write the business plan myself.

Masterplans presented me with an expert piece of work that displayed everything i'm trying to accomplish in the next five years.”.

Travis Grappo Owner/Operator, Oak House

Why Business Owners Trust Masterplans

With 18,000+ business plans crafted across diverse industries, here's why savvy entrepreneurs consistently choose to partner with us when they seek bank funding..

Experience & Expertise

For over two decades, Masterplans has had the privilege of turning the dreams of founders into reality by crafting business plans ready for both traditional bank lending and the SBA loan application process. 

Award-Winning Excellence

Our reputation as an award-winning firm is built on our unwavering commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. We take immense pride in the feedback from lenders who consider our business plans the best they've ever seen.

Proven Track Record

Our approach is grounded in enterprise-level research and analysis from pay-to-access platforms like IBISWorld, Esri, and Statista, ensuring your plan is a tool to obtain business financing and a practical roadmap to achieve your goals.

cutting through the red tape

Navigate the intricacies of the commercial loan process with confidence, we turn complexity into clarity, saving you time and headaches..

The banking landscape, with its maze of requirements, can be overwhelming and intimidating, especially for those venturing into the SBA loan process for the first time.

With Masterplans by your side, you're not navigating this terrain alone. You benefit from two decades of experience to ensure that you are prepared for your loan interview. Our understanding of the nuances of underwriting eliminates potential headaches, saving you invaluable time, and providing you with a clear path to loan approval.

Download Sample Business Plans ›

Key Sections a Bank & SBA Business Plan

Your business plan is structured so loan officers and underwriters can easily find what they need, while ensuring a cohesive, consistent, and comprehensive overview of your venture..

Executive Summary

You never get a second chance to make a great first impression. An Executive Summary provides a concise yet compelling snapshot of your venture , ensuring lenders immediately grasp its potential and viability. Integral to this is clearly stating your startup costs and the specific reasons why. The Executive Summary should stand on its own, but more than that, it should leave the banker wanting to learn more.

Company Overview

This company description provides a comprehensive overview of your business, highlighting its unique business model, products and services, and competitive advantage. It underscores your business's unique value proposition , its position within the market, and, critically, details of the sources and uses of funds during the startup, expansion, or acquisition phase.

Market Analysis

To secure a bank loan, your business plan must demonstrate deep understanding of your local market and offer a thorough industry analysis to gauge your projections within that context . Masterplans employs industry-leading market research tools , such as Statista, IBISWorld, and Esri's Business Analyst, to ensure that you grasp the broader industry trends as well as the dynamics of your specific target market.

Strategy & Implementation

The "Strategy & Implementation Summary" provides a detailed roadmap of pragmatic steps and tactics essential for reaching your business goals. Included is a synopsis of your marketing plan, meticulously crafted to convey how your business will attract your target customer .

Management Team

At the heart of a business's potential to service a loan is the capability of the business owner and managers. By spotlighting the hands-on professional experience and industry knowledge that prepares them to run and manage the business effectively, Masterplans ensures that a potential lender will have confidence in the leadership's ability to drive consistent performance.

Financial Projections

Masterplans builds a custom five-year financial projection, which includes an income statement, cash flow statement , and balance sheets that are grounded in solid assumptions and drivers. This approach ensures bankers see a realistic and reliable revenue projection , ensuring key metrics like the Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) are met.

“It was obvious that everyone who worked on the business plan put in a lot of effort and took pride in what they did.

It read so fluidly. every page led into the next, and it was easy for the bank to find the information they needed.”.

Peter Schellinger Owner/Operator, Diversified Land Management

Make SBA Lenders Compete for you

We put you in the driver’s seat, rather than being just another loan applicant, transform yourself into a sought-after client, making banks compete for your business..

A bank-ready business plan from Masterplans not only showcases your company's potential, but also outlines potential risks and offers strategies to address them , reassuring lenders of your proactive approach.

Our team of business plan writers provide small business owners with the leverage to attract multiple lenders, ensuring you get the best possible terms. With Masterplans, you're not just obtaining a loan; collaborating with us means delving into strategic planning that not only secures loan terms to set you up for success, but also ensures you're fully prepared to capitalize on it .

Our Latest Bank-Ready Business Plans

For over 21 years, we've been privileged to collaborate with clients spanning every industry. below are just a few of the 18,000+ business plan projects we've worked on..

Team Member Spotlight

Christina hersey, with over a decade of experience as a business plan writer, christina helps clients understand and exceed the stringent requirements of banks and the sba..

Christina's clients frequently commend her uncanny ability to "get into their head," a talent she seamlessly integrates into her role as Team Lead. She's fluent in English, Greek, and Spanish. Her dedication to excellence ensures that every business plan is not only compliant but also compelling, positioning entrepreneurs for success.

Meet The Team ›

Business plans for sba & bank loans faqs,  we've compiled a list of frequently asked questions to provide clarity on our service and process. if you don't find the answer to your specific question here, please don't hesitate to contact us ., how is the cost of a business plan for bank and sba loans determined.

Our pricing is influenced by several factors including industry type, plan length and scope, variables like multiple physical locations, the intended audience, and your timeframe.

Our bank-ready business plans typically range from $1,800 to $5,100, based on complexity and the team members required. This fee covers an in-depth discovery process, detailed research, professional writing and editing, and advanced financial modeling. We are happy to provide a complete scope of work for your project, free of charge, in as little as 24 hours. Simply contact us to set up an appointment.

For more information about what is included in our engagements, please see our pricing page .

How many pages is an bank-ready business plan?

The ideal length of a bank/SBA-loan business plan is precisely as long as it needs to be, and not a page more. While most bank-ready business plans fall within the 30-45 page range, with around 15 pages dedicated to financial statements, it's essential to remember that quality isn't determined by page count. Evaluating a business plan's merit based solely on its length misses the true value and depth of its content. 

You can see some examples of our bank-ready business plans here .

How long will my business plan project take?

Our projects kick off within 24 hours of receiving payment. From there, the timeline largely depends on your pace and preferences. Some clients prefer a more deliberate and procedural approach, while others are working against tight deadlines. Typically, we can deliver a complete first draft of the business plan within two weeks. We offer both 45-day and 90-day engagement timelines, ensuring ample time to integrate your feedback and steer the direction of the project.

You can learn more about our process and timeline here.

Do you guarantee funding, or accept payment after funding?

Our primary goal is to provide a top-notch business plan that positions clients in the best light for lenders. There are too many other factors involved for us to guarantee funding. We do, however, guarantee that if your bank loan is turned down on the basis of the business plan, we will refund your money in full. (Note: In over 20 years of business plan writing, this has never happened. Not once.)

As far as payments go, all terms are discussed upfront, and payment after funding is not a typical arrangement.

Will you help find funding?

While we specialize in crafting bank-ready business plans, we are not a certified SBA loan broker, which means we don't facilitate the SBA loan application process directly in exchange for a fee. However, over our 21-year tenure, we've fostered relationships with both regional and national banks. As a result, we are often able to make introductions where appropriate.

For those specifically interested in SBA loans, many clients find success working with preferred SBA lenders in your local market. We recommend using the SBA's Lender Match tool to find suitable lenders. You can access this resource at SBA Lender Match .

What experience do I need for an SBA loan?

Experience is a crucial factor when it comes to securing a loan for your business. Most lenders, including those offering SBA-backed loans, require applicants to have a certain level of experience in the industry or business they intend to operate; for example, the SBA typically requires a small business owner to have a minimum of five years of relevant experience. This experience can be in a management or operational role within the industry. If you lack direct industry experience but have other strong qualifications, such as a solid track record in a management or supervisory role in another field, you may still be considered for a loan.

The aim of this requirement is to ensure that you have the necessary expertise to manage and grow a successful enterprise. Lenders view this experience as a strong indicator of your ability to repay the loan and operate a viable business.

For more details on what's required for an SBA-backed loan, you can refer to our comprehensive guide on SBA loans .

Will a bank or the SBA fully-fund my business?

In many instances, SBA loans necessitate collateral as a form of security for the lender. Most SBA loans will require a down payment of 20%, and having assets that can be used as collateral can enhance your loan application. Additionally, demonstrating a personal investment in your business showcases commitment and responsibility, further augmenting your eligibility.

How important is my credit score when presenting my business plan to lenders or investors?

Your credit score plays a pivotal role when seeking financing, especially from traditional lenders like banks. It serves as a numerical summary of your financial reliability based on your past borrowing and repayment behaviors.

Most banks have minimum credit score requirements, often setting a threshold at or above 600. It's common for lenders to have a benchmark of 620. A higher score not only increases your likelihood of securing financing but can also secure more favorable terms for the loan.

Can a bank business plan be used to find an investor?

Generally, the expectations and objectives of investors differ from those of bank lenders. Banks tend to prioritize funding small businesses that foster local job creation, adopting a naturally conservative approach. In contrast, investors typically search for ventures with potential for rapid scaling and significant earnings, inherently embracing greater risk.

However, there are unique scenarios, especially when real estate plays a role , where an investor might be included in the capital stack. In such instances, we are well-equipped and eager to assist in presenting these cases effectively.

Do you use a standard "business plan template" or an "SBA business plan template" when developing plans for clients?

Every business is distinct, and consequently, every business plan we develop is uniquely tailored to that enterprise. While we don't rely on a specific "business plan template" or "SBA business plan template," our vast experience allows us to craft plans with efficiency. By building on our accumulated knowledge, we ensure both customization and efficiency in our deliverables.

Talk With An Expert Today

Leverage over two decades of experience by scheduling a free , no-obligation, 30-minute consultation with  one of our business plan experts..

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Bank Loan Proposal Template

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​ [Sender.FirstName] [Sender.LastName] [Sender.Company] ​

​ [Sender.Company] ​ [Sender.StreetAddress] [Sender.City] [Sender.State] [Sender.PostalCode] ​

​ [Sender.Phone] [Sender.Email] ​

Bank Loan Proposal Template

Lender: [Lender.Company] ​

Attn: [Lender.FirstName] [Lender.LastName] ​

Table of Contents

Introduction, company profile, partner histories, loan request, loan repayment, financial statements.

Income statements

Cash flow statements

Balance sheet

Financial forecast, projections, business operational data, confirmation, loan proposal letter.

Dear [Lender.FirstName] [Lender.LastName] ,

I have been in the restaurant industry for more than two decades, holding both front of house and back of house positions. I've worked in several major U.S. markets, including New York City and the San Francisco Bay Area, and overseas in South America and Europe.

I first started out in my grandfather's restaurant busing tables and doing dishes, and for the past 5 years I have been the manager of a highly acclaimed and popular destination restaurant in San Francisco. I also hold a Bachelor's Degree in Food Business Management from the Culinary Institute of America.

Since those early days in grandpa's kitchen, I have wanted to run my own restaurant. I believe my time is now, as I have the necessary experience, industry relationships and connections to make this happen. With help from those industry connections, I've created a sound business plan that borrows from established ventures but takes things a step further.

The following proposal will show [Lender.Company] why I’m seeking a loan to launch my restaurant and how the money will be used to complement my existing capital.

​ [Sender.FirstName] [Sender.LastName] ​

At its core, a restaurant is a gathering place to relax, refuel, and socialize with others. The world is full of different cultures, but one thing we all share are meals together. I've taken this ethos to heart, and it is the driving force behind my concept for a restaurant.

In San Francisco, it's not enough to just serve good food; you are selling an experience as much as a meal. The city is one of the top markets for restaurants in the country. It was one of the first two regions, along with New York, in the U.S. reviewed by Europe's esteemed Michelin Guide, and it contains the most restaurants per capita of any U.S. city. In essence, San Francisco is a trend-setter in the food world.

My restaurant is currently in the buildout phase, with an anticipated opening date of six months from now. We have secured a lease for a space in a neighborhood that has steady foot traffic, is popular with tourists and locals alike, and does not have any similar restaurants already.

The space will be bright and open, with an exposed kitchen in the rear to show off food production and a 360 degree bar in the center with ample space to wait for a table and have a drink. We are aiming for seating of up to 50 at a time in order to give patrons a more personal experience.

We envision a younger clientele, with plenty of out-of-towners due to the neighborhood being popular with tourists. Our prices will be very competitive in order to attract customers, but I also believe in living wages and benefits for our employees. To this end, all tips generated by the service staff are pooled together and dispersed equally depending on each employee's function in the overall operation of the restaurant.

In addition to myself, there are two more investors in my restaurant. We each bring something unique to the concept, all having spent our careers in the restaurant industry.

One investor is a veteran in beer, wine, and spirits who runs a bar consulting business in San Francisco. He has helped open some of the city's most popular and well-respected establishments. He has also won numerous industry awards. His focus is on using fresh ingredients to craft cocktails that pair well with food.

The other investor is a seasoned chef who has worked for some of the finest restaurants in the U.S. for two decades. He studied cooking in France, and held two apprenticeships in Spain. His food has been lauded as "cutting-edge California cuisine."

I bring to the team the front of house experience, handling the direct contact with customers and managing the service staff. I have over 10 years of direct restaurant management experience at high-volume locations in San Francisco and New York.

Our budget for the restaurant is $250,000. Of that, the three investors (myself and the two others mentioned) have raised $125,000, meaning we need another $125,000 to launch the restaurant.

Our existing investment is being used to pay lease costs on the space while it's built out and construction expenses to renovate the interior. It's also going toward city and state permit and licensing costs associated with restaurant and bar operations. As stated previously, we anticipate an opening date of six months from now.

The money we are requesting from [Lender.Company] will go toward the following needs:

Kitchen equipment, $75,000: We believe quality food comes from good products. We need to purchase general cooking utensils, tableware and silverware, a new industrial-size oven with a 10-top burner, and refrigeration equipment.

Bar equipment, $25,000: Our bar will use only the finest ingredients and spirits available, in addition to a small and well-curated beer and wine list. We have established relationships with beverage industry distributors for these products at competitive rates.

Food, $25,000: No restaurant is complete without its menu. Through our years of experience and vast connections, we have established relationships with food purveyors around the state of California and elsewhere in the U.S. to supply the restaurant. These products will be the last items ordered before opening.

We are asking [Lender.Company] for a loan of $125,000 to be repaid over one year at a rate of 6% interest, making payments of $11,041.67 monthly.

Our estimates for revenue are an average of $6,000 per day over 22 operational days per month for a total revenue stream of $132,000 a month. After factoring in staff costs of $25,000 per month and operational costs of $75,000, we are left with enough money to comfortably repay a loan under those terms.

Spreadsheets for each partner are attached showing various forms of collateral we are putting up as security for our loan request. Among them are mutual fund investments, equity from ownership of two separate residential properties, and savings accounts.

Attached to this loan request are personal and business financial statements for each partner.

Income statement

Mention your income statement details here

Cash flow statement

Other documentation attached to this request includes income and cash flow projections for the restaurant, and alternative operational structures in the event our projections do not materialize.

I, [Sender.FirstName] [Sender.LastName] , attest that all information mentioned above is true to the best of my knowledge and understanding.

​ [Sender.Company] ​

​ [Lender.Company] ​

​ [Lender.FirstName] [Lender.LastName] ​

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How to Write an SBA Business Plan + Template

Noah Parsons

10 min. read

Updated November 21, 2023

Applying for a Small Business Administration loan typically requires a business plan.

Unfortunately, there’s no SBA loan business plan format that guarantees approval. The SBA even states you should “pick a business plan format that works for you.” 

While I agree with this sentiment, I’ve found that entrepreneurs who explain how funds will be used and how they will repay the loan tend to be more successful. 

Luckily, these details can be covered using our SBA-lender-approved business plan format . I’ll go over that structure in this article, and focus on the sections that the SBA prioritizes, so you can maximize your chances of getting funded .

You can even download a free SBA-lender-approved business plan template to fill out as you read. 

Let’s get started.

• Why you need a business plan for SBA loans

SBA loans require good documentation of your business and personal finances. You’ll need to pull together your past tax returns, bank statements, and various application forms depending on the type of SBA loan you apply for.

The bank issuing the loan will also want to know about the future of your business. 

They’ll want to see how the loan will be used and if future cash flow projections are realistic and indicate you can afford loan payments.

That’s where writing an SBA business plan comes in. 

Not only will your business plan describe your business to the lender, but it will include the financial projections the bank will use to determine if you qualify for the loan .

• What your business plan should include, according to the SBA

Business plans for SBA loans follow a fairly standard structure, but that doesn’t mean you need to follow it exactly. 

The SBA even recommends adjusting the plan outline to serve your needs. If a section does not apply to your business, it’s fine just to remove it.

Here’s the successful business plan structure I recommend for SBA loans:

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1. Executive summary

A great executive summary is a short, simple overview of your business. It should be easy for a loan officer to read and clearly understand what your business does. 

When applying for an SBA loan, highlight your: 

• Business opportunity
• Financial forecast
• How much money you want to borrow and how it will be used

Remember, an executive summary should be short and to the point. The rest of your business plan will provide additional details.

[Dig deeper: How to write an executive summary ]

2. Company description

Some people call this section “Products and Services.” Either option is fine. The important thing is that you use this section to explain what your business opportunity is. 

You need to cover: 

• The problem you solve
• Who you’re solving it for
• What your solution is and why it’s better

Be specific and tell the story of your business and your customers. Focus on your strengths and what sets you apart from competitors. 

If your company is developing a product, include information on:

• What the product life cycle looks like
• Intellectual property filings
• Current research and development

If these topics don’t apply to your product, that’s fine. Just be sure that the description of what you sell is clear.

3. Market analysis

The market analysis chapter explains who your customers are. It provides an overview of your target market, competition, and industry.

Your target market is essentially a description of your ideal customers. Be sure to include specific demographic information (like age, gender, location, income) and psychographic information (hobbies, purchasing behaviors). 

This data should reinforce that your target market needs your solution .

It’s helpful to also include information on the size of your target market . Lenders will want to see evidence of enough potential customers to drive growth. 

While your target market information describes your customers, an industry overview discusses the type of business you’re in and its potential for growth. 

For example: If you’re starting a fast-casual restaurant, your industry overview might discuss the increased interest in fast-casual dining and how more people are eating in these types of restaurants every year. 

Finally, you’ll need to include a competitive analysis . This is a list of current competitors and alternatives, with explanations of why your business is a better option. 

Your goal is to show how your business is unique, what opportunities and threats there are, and how you plan to address the competition.

4. Organization and management

Also known as your company overview, this section is where you describe your legal structure, history, and team .

For your SBA loan application, you should focus on describing who is managing the business as clearly as possible. 

You may want to include an organizational chart. You should provide detailed resumes for everyone in leadership positions. Each team member’s experience, skills and professional qualifications can mitigate risk in the eyes of a lender .

To show you’re thinking ahead, it’s also helpful to include key positions you plan to fill as you grow. 

5. Sales and marketing plan

Your goal in this section is to summarize how you will attract, retain, and sell to your customers.

The marketing strategies and sales methods you describe should always have the customer top of mind, and demonstrate that you know how to connect with them. 

To help a loan officer visualize this, you can provide examples of marketing messaging, visuals, and promotions. If you have any research or results to show that your strategy has merit, include those as well. 

6. Financial projections

SBA lenders typically require 5 years of financial projections — including profit and loss statements , balance sheets , and cash flow statements . 

Be sure to include the SBA loan in your projections in the following areas: 

• A liability on your balance sheet.
• Payments on your cash flow.
• Interest expenses on your profit and loss statement. 

I’ll dive into specific details of what you should focus on in the “how to improve your chances” section.

Your first year of financial projections should include monthly details. After that, annual summaries are usually sufficient for most SBA lenders. Occasionally, a lender might require 24 months of monthly projections, so check with your bank before submitting your business plan. 

If your business is up and running, you must also provide historical financial reports for the past 12-24 months of operations—including income statements and a current balance sheet.

Typically, you will also need to provide reports on your personal finances , including any assets you have, such as a home or car. 

Finally, include a section explaining your use of funds—what exactly you plan to use the loan for.

7. Appendix

The appendix is your chance to provide additional documents that support sections of your business plan. 

When applying for a loan, these may include:

• Employee resumes
• Licenses and permits
• Patents and other legal documents
• Historical financial statements
• Credit histories

Don’t worry about stuffing your appendix full of additional documentation. Only include information if you believe it will strengthen your approval chances, or if your lender specifically asks for it.

• How to improve your chances of being approved for an SBA loan

Your SBA business plan needs to focus on the loan you are applying for and how that will impact your business financially. 

Make sure to include the following information in your financial plan to increase your chances of success with your lender:

Funding request 

In your executive summary, document how much money you are asking for. It’s best to put your number where it can be clearly read, instead of trying to bury it deep within your business plan.

Remember, there are limitations to how much you can borrow through SBA-backed loans.  Most have a maximum loan amount of $5 million, while SBA Express loans have a maximum loan amount of $350,000. 

Use of funds

You should also describe how you plan to use the loan and which aspects of the business you want to invest in. 

Some SBA loans are designed specifically for expanding export businesses or funding real estate transactions. So, make sure your use of funds description is appropriate for the loan you are applying for.

Cash flow forecast

Be sure to include the loan in your cash flow statements and projections . You want to demonstrate that you’ve planned how you will use and repay the loan.

You need to show:

• When you anticipate receiving the loan.
• How the loan will impact your finances. 
• Loan payments for the life of the loan. 

Having this prepared won’t just increase the chances of your application being approved—It  will make it much easier to manage the loan after you receive funding . 

Balance sheet 

You’ll also want to put the loan on your projected balance sheet , and show how the loan will get paid down over time. 

The money you owe will show up on your balance sheet as a liability, while the cash you receive from the loan will be an asset. Over time, your forecasted balance sheet will show that the loan is getting paid back. 

Your lender will want to see that you have forecasted this repayment properly.

Profit & Loss forecast

Your P&L should include the interest expenses for the loan, and show how the interest will impact your profitability in the coming months and years.

• How long does an SBA business plan need to be?

The SBA doesn’t have an official recommended or required business plan length . As a general rule of thumb, you should make your business plan as short and concise as possible. 

Your business plan is going to be reviewed by a bank loan officer, and they will be less than excited about the prospect of reading a 50-page business plan.

If possible, keep the written portion of your business plan between 10-15 pages. Your financial forecasts will take up several additional pages. 

If you’re struggling to keep it short, try a one-page plan

A great way to start your business plan is with a simple, one-page business plan that provides a brief and compelling overview of your business. 

A good one-page plan is easy to read and visually appealing. Once you have your one-page plan, you can expand on the ideas to develop your complete written business plan, and use the one-page plan as your executive summary. 

Loan officers will appreciate a concise overview of your business that provides the summary they need before they start looking at your complete business plan and financial plan .

• Resources and tools for writing an SBA business plan

Remember, you can download a free SBA-lender-approved business plan template . It includes detailed instructions to help you write each section, expert guidance and tips, and is formatted as lenders and investors expect.

If you’re looking for a more powerful plan writing tool, one that can also help you create financial forecasts for the use of your loan, I recommend you check out LivePlan . 

With LivePlan, you get:

• AI-powered recommendations: Generate and rewrite sections of your plan to be more professional and persuasive.
• Step-by-step instructions: In-app examples, tutorials, and tips to help you write an impressive business plan.
• Automatic financials: Skip the spreadsheets and complex formulas, and quickly create accurate financial forecasts with everything a lender needs.
• A built-in pitch presentation: Print or share your full business plan, one-page pitch, and financial reports—all with a professional and polished look.

Whether you use the template, LivePlan, or try writing a business plan yourself, following the structure and tips from this article will improve your chances of getting an SBA-backed loan. 

And for additional SBA-focused resources, check out our guide on how to get an SBA loan .   

Noah is the COO at Palo Alto Software, makers of the online business plan app LivePlan. He started his career at Yahoo! and then helped start the user review site Epinions.com. From there he started a software distribution business in the UK before coming to Palo Alto Software to run the marketing and product teams.

Table of Contents

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Bank Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Bank Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 500 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their banks.

If you’re unfamiliar with creating a bank business plan, you may think creating one will be a time-consuming and frustrating process. For most entrepreneurs it is, but for you, it won’t be since we’re here to help. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write a bank business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What Is a Bank Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your bank as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for Your Bank Business

If you’re looking to start a bank or grow your existing bank, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your bank to improve your chances of success. Your bank business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Banks

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a bank are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for banks.  

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a bank.

If you want to start a bank or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The guide below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of your bank business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of bank you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a bank that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of banks?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan.

• Give a brief overview of the bank industry.
• Discuss the type of bank you are operating.
• Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers.
• Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team.
• Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of bank you are operating.

For example, you might specialize in one of the following types of banks:

• Commercial bank : this type of bank tends to concentrate on supporting businesses. Both large corporations and small businesses can turn to commercial banks if they need to open a checking or savings account, borrow money, obtain access to credit or transfer funds to companies in foreign markets.
• Credit union: this type of bank operates much like a traditional bank (issues loans, provides checking and savings accounts, etc.) but banks are for-profit whereas credit unions are not. Credit unions fall under the direction of their own members. They tend to serve people affiliated with a particular group, such as people living in the same area, low-income members of a community or armed service members. They also tend to charge lower fees and offer lower loan rates.
• Retail bank: retail banks can be traditional, brick-and-mortar brands that customers can access in-person, online, or through their mobile phones. They also offer general public financial products and services such as bank accounts, loans, credit cards, and insurance.
• Investment bank: this type of bank manages the trading of stocks, bonds, and other securities between companies and investors. They also advise individuals and corporations who need financial guidance, reorganize companies through mergers and acquisitions, manage investment portfolios or raise money for certain businesses and the federal government.

In addition to explaining the type of bank you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of clients served, the number of clients with positive reviews, reaching X number of clients served, etc.
• Your legal business Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the bank industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the bank industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your bank business plan:

• How big is the bank industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your bank? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your bank business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, small businesses, families, and corporations.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of bank you operate. Clearly, corporations would respond to different marketing promotions than individuals, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other banks.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. This includes trust accounts, investment companies, or the stock market. You need to mention such competition as well.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What type of bank are they?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide loans and retirement savings accounts?
• Will you offer products or services that your competition doesn’t?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a bank business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of bank company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide savings accounts, auto loans, mortgage loans, or financial advice?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your plan, you are presenting the products and/or services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your bank. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your bank located in a busy retail district, a business district, a standalone office, or purely online? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your bank marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
• Reach out to websites
• Distribute flyers
• Engage in email marketing
• Advertise on social media platforms
• Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your bank, including reconciling accounts, customer service, accounting, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to sign up your Xth customer, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your bank to a new city.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your bank’s potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing banks. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a bank or successfully running a small financial advisory firm.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you see 5 clients per day, and/or offer sign up bonuses? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your bank, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a bank:

• Cost of furniture and office supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and equipment

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your bank location lease or a list of accounts and loans you plan to offer.  

Writing a business plan for your bank is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will understand the bank industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful bank.  

Bank Business Plan Template FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my bank business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your bank business plan.

How Do You Start a Bank Business?

Starting a bank business is easy with these 14 steps:

• Choose the Name for Your Bank Business
• Create Your Bank Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Bank Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Bank Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Bank Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Bank Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Bank Business Equipment
• Develop Your Bank Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Bank Business
• Open for Business

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Bank business plan?

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Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.   Click here to see how a Growthink business plan consultant can create your business plan for you.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

• 425-289-3200

How to Write a SBA Loan Business Plan

A business plan is a crucial piece of any SBA loan application. It’s what lenders will look at most closely when approving a loan, so it should be organized, well planned and persuasive. Set yourself up for success by learning how business plans impact loan approval and which critical elements to include.

What is a business plan?

Many entrepreneurs talk about their business plan — whether it’s stored only in their minds or scratched on napkin — but truly savvy business owners take the to time author a well-written one. So what exactly is a business plan?

A business plan is a living document (meaning it can and should be updated as your business progresses) with a three- to five-year outlook into your business. It should provide an overall summary of where the business is headed, plans for growth and projected revenue. Business plans take time, research and due diligence, but the reward is organized and actionable steps to grow your business. In fact, companies with a formal written business plan see a  30 percent increase in growth  compared to those that don’t.

How does a business plan help you get an SBA loan?

Outside of your basic eligibility requirements ( see Chapter 2 for the 5 C’s ), your business plan is the top element lenders will review to determine your attractiveness as a borrower. Having a solid business plan with clear ideas makes it easier it is for banks to see that your business will be successful, and therefore that you’ll be able to repay the loan. However, business plans are not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. If you’re running an independent business or launching a start-up, the importance of your business plan carries additional weight and will be more carefully scrutinized. If you’re funding the purchase of a franchise, the competitive analysis and management sections will be more closely reviewed than others because the business model has already proven successful.

Writing a business plan can sound intimidating, but even a thorough plan only needs to be seven to ten pages. Check out our free  eBook  and business plan template to help guide you through the process, and keep reading for an overview of each section of the business plan.

The 10 Elements of a Business Plan

Whether you’re writing a business plan as a part of your SBA loan application package or not, there are 10 essential elements to include. Here’s a look at what those sections are as well what’s included in a complete plan.

Cover Page and Table of Contents

The cover page and table of contents of your business plan is a great way to show your lenders that you’re a professional and organized businessperson. These pages should be simple and straightforward, but you can (and should) make them your own by including your company’s logo.

What’s included in the cover page and table of contents?

• The business’s name and logo.
• Your contact information as the owner.
• A standard table of contents with page numbers.

Executive Summary

As the first thing that lenders will read in your business plan, the executive summary is the most important section. Here, you will introduce yourself to potential lenders or investors, so the overall tone should be professional, but it should also paint a positive picture about the business.

What’s included in the executive summary?

• An overview of the business idea, what problem it solves for consumers and how it fits into the market.
• How much the business will cost and how much funding you’re seeking.
• Plans for growth and why the business will be successful.
• Information about your business background.

Company Description

The company description is a closer look at how the business will function. This information is a good opportunity to show lenders you’ve thought through the day-to-day details and have a solid strategy in place. Consider the company description your extended elevator pitch.

What’s included in the company description?

• Your company’s name, mission and vision.
• An explanation of the business structure, including products sold or services provided.
• Any information regarding strategic partnerships.
• Business location and when it will open.
• Business goals and competitive advantages.

Market Plan and Analysis

The market analysis section should show readers your deep understanding of the market and your plan to be competitive. Those looking to fund a franchise should give this section extra attention, as lenders will be reviewing this information closely. This is also great space to use visuals to help support your story.

What’s included in the market plan and analysis?

• An industry overview and outlook, including trends, size and expected growth.
• Target market demographics and market research data.
• A marketing plan tailored to the audience you’ve identified.
• Competitive analysis.

Organization and Management

Depending on the size of your business, the amount of detail in the management section can vary greatly. Even if there are only a few people in leadership roles, an organizational chart is an effective way to show lenders how the management team will be structured. If you are your only employee (and plan to remain so), you can write a short paragraph explaining this as well as your qualifications.

What’s included in the organization and management section?

• A list of each management position including who will fill the role and their qualifications.
• Any additional information about how the management team will contribute to the success of the business.
• Information about the Board of Directors.

Service or Product

When describing your service or product in your business plan, it’s important to emphasize how your particular offering will meet a need for your target market. Try to think beyond providing a general description of what your company is selling and focus on how your company provides value to your customers.

What’s included in the service or product section?

• A detailed description of your product or service.
• Pricing details.
• Product research and development
• Intellectual property rights.
• An overview of the sales process and order fulfillment.

Marketing and Sales

The marketing and sales information in your business plan is all about how you’re going to connect with customers. Whether your strategy is to focus on advertising or inbound marketing, you should detail your plan here and explain why it makes sense for your target audience. You should also discuss how you plan to build and support your sales strategy.

What’s included in the sales and marketing section?

• Detailed marketing plan geared toward your target audience.
• Sales and marketing goals and KPIs.
• Budgets for both sales and marketing.
• A training plan for your sales team (if applicable).
• Revisit your pricing strategy.

Funding Request

Your funding request is an opportunity to tell lenders how SBA funding will help your business, as well as how your business will successfully repay the loan. Here, you should explain why you’re asking for small business financing as well as an overview of how the funds will be used.

What’s included in the funding request?

• An overview of your business.
• Financial information for current operations (if applicable).
• An outline of how much funding you need now and in the near future (up to five years).
• Detailed explanation of how the funds will be used.
• Strategic financial plans for the future.

Financial Projections

The information in the financial projections section of your business plan should cover three years of forecasted financial information. Keep in mind, you’re showing lenders how your business will perform by providing profit and loss, balance sheet and cash flow details. Remember, your business plan is a living document, so for your own benefit, you should continue to update this information even after funding.

What’s included in the financial projections section?

• Financial statements.
• An expenses budget, including both fixed and variable costs.
• A break-even analysis.
• A sales forecast for each service or product line.
• Historical financial data (if you own or are purchasing an existing business).

The appendix is the final section of your business plan, and is the best place to add any supporting documents. For example, if you had multiple pages of data to support your market analysis, you can include them here. You should reference which documents are in the appendix in earlier sections so lenders know where to find additional information.

What’s included in the appendix?

• Charts, graphs and data to support the information provided in earlier sections.
• Licenses and contracts with vendors or partners.
• Building permits.
• Resumes and professional certificates.
• Credit history.

Creating a written business plan may seem like an arduous task, but it’s a crucial step to obtain SBA financing. This living document can also help to guide you once you’re in business — keeping you on track, helping you to see what’s working and possibly what’s not. Taking the time to write a business plan now will help you find success down the road.

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Bank Loan Business Plan [Sample Template]

Home » Business Plans » Financial Services

Do you need a loan for your business? If YES, here is a detailed sample bank loan business plan template & proposal for a beverage distribution company.

Loan Proposal for Charlie & Tango Beverage Distribution Company®, LLC.

1. industry overview.

Charlie & Tango Beverage Distribution Company®, LLC is seeking to:

(a) Convert existing short-term notes of $165,000 to a long-term note to be repaid at $3,000 per month (plus interest).

(b) Establish a credit line of $300,000 to finance expected seasonal fluctuations in inventory and accounts receivable.

We have structured the business in such a way that repayment on long-term financing will come from continuing net profits that we will generate. So also, the repayment of the seasonal credit line will come from liquidation of inventory and receivables.

• Corporate Data

Name: Charlie & Tango Beverage Distribution Company®, LLC

Address: 1310 – 23nd Avenue N.W.

Seattle, Washington 98128

Phone: (206) 478-2600

Date Established: January 3, 2005

Form of Organization: Washington Corporation

Incorporated by Irwin and Irene Dickson on March 1, 2005.

Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC is a family business that is owned by Irwin Dickson and his immediate family members. Irwin Dickson has a B.Sc. in Business Administration, with over 8 years of hands on experience in the retailing and distribution industry, working for some of the leading brands in the united states.

Although the business is launching out by focusing on Trenton – New Jersey, but there is a plan to expand our distribution network all across the state of New – Jersey.

2. Executive Summary

Charlie & Tango Beverage Distribution Company®, LLC is a Seattle-based corporation that distributes different types of beverages to retailers and distributors out of a North Seattle warehouse location. The average customer is a small or medium – sized retailer of beverages, and other related retailers including mom and pop shops and shopping malls.

Estimated sales for fiscal 2005 is $1,250,000. Advertising expense has been low since most advertising is at the retail-level, co-op by the manufacturer of the products we will be distributing.

The primary focus of the business is excellent service and quality product delivery — and the ability to keep beverages in stock. Most accounts are carried on a 2 percent 10/Net 30 basis; few customers take discounts. Third party distributors are generally carried on a Net 10 basis.

Distribution is from a central warehouse in North Seattle, which is connected to a small showroom and also contains the corporate offices. Lead-time on ordering for inventory is quite short and style changes generally occur once per year.

Our major supplier is Nestle. Nestle’s terms are 2% 10/Net 30. Almost all the suppliers offer discounts, some even larger than 2% 10/Net 30. During 2005 there was one major price increase of about 5 percent. Charlie & Tango Beverage Distribution Company®, LLC operates out of leased premises and holds a very favorable lease through 2007.

For a business such as ours, location is not critical, although our current location does provide excellent access for delivery trucks. This is a distribution business and, therefore, depends upon efficient routing and /or shipping. It is important to note that bad debts have recently taken an alarming upturn in our line of business.

3. Our Products and Services

• Distribution of functional beverages and sports drinks
• Distributions of carbonated soft drinks
• Distribution of bottled water
• Distributions of fruit juices and cocktails
• Distribution of teas
• Distribution of energy and sport drinks

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to ensure that we not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients no matter what those expectations are.
• Our mission is to build a world best loan business company that will favorably compete with other loan business in the industry.

Our Business Structure

Below is our management and organization structure please note that this excludes unskilled laborers who we will engage from time to time;

• Chief Executive Officer (Owner)
• Warehouse Manager
• Human Resources and Amin Manager
• Merchandize Manager

Sales and Marketing Manager

Information Technologist

• Accountants / Cashiers
• Customer Services Executive
• Drivers / Distributors

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results
• Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Reports to the board

Admin and HR Manager

• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Defining job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carrying out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Oversee the smooth running of the daily office activities.

Warehouse Manager:

• Responsible for organizing the safe and efficient receipt, storage and dispatch of warehoused goods
• Responsible for liaising with customers, suppliers and transport companies
• In charge of planning, coordinating and monitoring the receipt, order assembly and dispatch of goods
• Responsible for using space and mechanical handling equipment efficiently and making sure quality, budgetary targets and environmental objectives are met
• Responsible for keeping stock control systems up to date and making sure inventories are accurate;
• Responsible for producing regular reports and statistics on a daily, weekly and monthly basis
• In charge of overseeing the planned maintenance of vehicles, machinery and equipment.
• Ensures that proper record of goods are kept and warehouse does not run out of products
• Ensure that the warehouse facility is in tip top shape and goods are properly arranged and easy to locate
• Control beverage and carbonated soft drinks distribution and supply inventory
• Supervise the workforce in the warehouse floor.

Merchandise  Manager

• Manage vendor relations, market visits, and the ongoing education and development of the organizations’ buying teams
• Responsible for the purchase of beverages and carbonated drinks for the organizations
• Responsible for planning sales, monitoring inventory, selecting the merchandise, and writing and pricing orders to vendors
• Ensures that the organization operates within stipulated budget.
• Manage external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Model demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customer purchases
• Identify, prioritize, and reach out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Document all customer contact and information
• Represent the company in strategic meetings
• Help increase sales and growth for the company
• Manage the organization website
• Handles ecommerce aspect of the business
• Responsible for installing and maintenance of computer software and hardware for the organization
• Manage logistics and supply chain software, Web servers, e-commerce software and POS (point of sale) systems
• Manage the organization’s CCTV
• Handles any other technological and IT related duties.

Accountant/Cashier:

• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensuring compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the organization
• Serves as internal auditor for the organization

Client Service Executive

• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with customers on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the human resources and admin manager in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to customers when they make enquiries

Distribution Truck Drivers

• Assist in loading and unloading beverages and carbonated soft drinks
• Maintain a logbook of their driving activities to ensure compliance with federal regulations governing the rest and work periods for operators.
• Keep a record of vehicle inspections and make sure the truck is equipped with safety equipment
• Assist the transport and logistics manager in planning their route according to a distribution schedule.
• Local-delivery drivers may be required to sell products or services to stores and businesses on their route, obtain signatures from recipients and collect cash.
• Inspect vehicles for mechanical items and safety issues and perform preventative maintenance
• Comply with truck driving rules and regulations (size, weight, route designations, parking, break periods etc.) as well as with company policies and procedures
• Report defects, accidents or violations

Modus Operandi and Source of Supply

It is the duty of our merchandise manager or marketing manager to help the organization source for beverage manufacturing companies to help distribute their products. We will go out there to source for good wholesale distribution deals and also ensure that we do not only distribute at the right prices that will guarantee the organization good profit margin, but also, we will ensure that we distribute beverages that are in demand.

Once the deal is sealed, the drivers either load their trucks directly from the company or warehouse and then go around distributing it. Once the products are distributed, we will either collect money on delivery or we will go back later to collect our money. Usually there will be a business agreement with the beverage manufacturing companies and we can access credit based on our capacity.

The names of our major suppliers are;

• The Coca Cola Company
• PepsiCo Inc.

When it comes to available storage facilities, our warehouse is designed based on the requirements of our major suppliers and the zoning regulations of our location.

Professional and Advisory Support

Board of Directors

• Irwin Dickson – Chairman
• Irene Dickson (Mrs.) – Director
• Isabella Dickson – Director
• Maria Rosenberg – Director
• Collins Jones – Director
• McCain Greene – Secretary

Management Advisory Board

• Luke Sharpton
• Allen Shaun
• Cecelia Hall

Attorney – Bar. Felix Leighton (LLB, LLM)

Accountant – Deb Rosen

Insurance agent – Alliance Insurance Group

Banker – Platform™ Investment Bank, Inc.

6. SWOT Analysis

Our intention of starting out in Trenton and distribute our goods only within Trenton – New Jersey is to test run the business for a period of 2 to 5 years to know if we will invest more money, expand the business and then start distributing all around the state.

We are quite aware that there are several beverage distribution companies all over Trenton and even in the same location where we intend locating ours, which is why we are following the due process of establishing a business. We know that if a proper SWOT analysis is conducted for our business, we will be able to position our business to maximize our strength, leverage on the opportunities that will be available to us, mitigate our risks and be equipped to confront our threats.

Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC employed the services of an expert HR and Business Analyst with bias in retailing and distribution to help us conduct a thorough SWOT analysis and to help us create a Business model that will help us achieve our business goals and objectives. This is the summary of the SWOT analysis that was conducted for Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC;

Our location, the business model we will be operating on (robust distribution network), varieties of payment options, wide range of products from top brands and our excellent customer service culture will definitely count as a strong strength for us. Also our management team members are people who have what it takes to grow a business from startup to profitability with a record time.

A major weakness that may count against us is the fact that we are a new beverage and carbonated soft drink distribution business and we don’t have the financial capacity to compete with leaders in the industry for now.

• Opportunities:

The fact that we are going to be operating our business in Trenton – New Jersey provides us with unlimited opportunities to sell our goods to a large number of retailers and businesses. We have been able to conduct thorough feasibility studies and market survey and we know what our potential clients will be looking for when they patronize our products and services; we are well positioned to take on the opportunities that will come our way.

Just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing/spending power. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of a similar business in same location where ours is located.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

Distribution of goods as wholesaler to retailers has been in existence for as long as human started trading goods, but one thing is certain, the distribution industry is still evolving. The introduction of technology has indeed helped in reshaping the industry.

Lastly, it is now a common phenomenon for distribution companies to leverage on technology to effectively predict consumer demand patterns and to strategically position their business to meet their needs; in essence, the use of technology helps businesses like ours to maximize supply chain efficiencies. Data collected from customers goes a long way to help beverage and carbonated soft drinks serve them better.

8. Our Target Market

The beverage and carbonated soft drinks industry has a wide range of customers; a good number of people on planet earth consume beverages and carbonated soft drinks and it is difficult to find people around who don’t.

In view of that, we have positioned our company to service businesses in Trenton – New Jersey and every other location. We have conducted our market research and we have ideas of what our target market would be expecting from us.

We are in business to retail (distribute) a wide range of beverages and carbonated soft drinks from different production companies to the following businesses;

• Retailers of beverages and carbonated soft drinks
• Restaurants
• Night clubs and bars

Our Competitive Advantage

A close study of the beverage and carbonated soft drinks industry reveals that the market has become much more intensely competitive over the last decade. As a matter of fact, you have to be highly creative, customer centric and proactive if you must survive in this industry. We are aware of the stiff competition and we are prepared to compete favorably with other leading supermarkets and grocery stores in Trenton – New Jersey.

Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC is launching a standard beverage and carbonated soft drinks distribution business that will indeed become the preferred choice of retailers, hotels, and restaurants et al in Trenton – New Jersey.

One thing is certain; we will ensure that we have a wide range of products available in our warehouse at all times. One of our business goals is to make Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC is a one stop beverage and carbonated soft drinks distribution company. Our excellent customer service culture, timely and reliable delivery services, online presence, and various payment options will serve as a competitive advantage for us.

Lastly, our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category in the industry meaning that they will be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our objectives. We will also give good working conditions and commissions to freelance sales agents that we will recruit from time to time.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC is in business to retail a wide range of beverages from top beverage production companies to hotels, restaurants and retailers in Trenton – New Jersey. We are in the distribution industry to maximize profits and we are going to ensure that we achieve or business goals and objectives.

Our source of income will be the retailing (distribution) of a wide range of beverages at affordable prices. We will generate income for the business by;

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain when it comes to the distribution business, if your business is centrally positioned coupled with effective and reliable vans/trucks and distribution network, you will always attract customers cum sales and that will sure translate to increase in revenue generation for the business.

We are positioned to take on the available market in Trenton – New Jersey and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income/profits from the first six months of operations and grow the business and our clientele base.

We have been able to examine the beverage and carbonated soft drinks distribution industry and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. Below are the sales projections for Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC.

• First Fiscal Year:  $240,000
• Second Fiscal Year:  $450,000
• Third Fiscal Year:  $750,000

N.B : This projection was done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and there won’t be any major competitor offering same products, home delivery services and customer care services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Before choosing a location for Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC, we conducted a thorough market survey and feasibility studies in order for us to penetrate the available market and become the preferred choice for beverage and carbonated soft drinks retailers, hotels, and restaurants in Trenton – New Jersey.

We hired experts who have good understanding of the retailing and distribution industry to help us develop marketing strategies that will help us achieve our business goal of winning a larger percentage of the available market in Trenton – New Jersey.

In summary, Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC will adopt the following sales and marketing approach to win customers over;

• Open our business in a grand style with a party for all.
• Introduce our business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to beverages and carbonated soft drinks retailers, hotels, restaurants, households and key stake holders in Trenton – New Jersey
• Ensure that we have a wide range of beverages and carbonated soft drinks from different brands within and outside the United States at all times.
• Make use of attractive hand bills to create awareness business
• Position our signage/flexi banners at strategic places around Trenton – New Jersey
• Create a loyalty plan that will enable us reward our regular customers

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Despite the fact that our beverage and carbonated soft drinks distribution business is well structured and well located, we will still go ahead to intensify publicity for the business. Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC has a long-term plan of opening distribution channels all around the state of New Jersey which is why we will deliberately build our brand to be well accepted in Trenton before venturing out.

Here are the platforms we intend leveraging on to promote and advertise Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC;

• Place adverts on community based newspapers, radio and TV stations
• Encourage the use of word of mouth publicity from our loyal customers
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; YouTube, Instagram, Facebook ,Twitter, LinkedIn, Snapchat, Badoo, Google+  and other platforms to promote our business.
• Ensure that our we position our banners and billboards in strategic positions all around Trenton – New Jersey
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas in and around our neighborhood
• Contact beverage and carbonated soft drinks retailers, hotels, restaurants, night clubs and bars by calling them up and informing them of Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC and the products we sell / distribute
• Advertise our grocery home delivery services business in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site
• Brand all our official cars and distribution vans / trucks and ensure that all our staff members wear our branded shirt or cap at regular intervals.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Pricing is one of the key factors that gives leverage to distribution companies and retailers, it is normal for retailers to purchase products from distribution companies that they can goods at cheaper price. We will work towards ensuring that all our goods are distributed at highly competitive prices compared to what is obtainable in the United States of America.

We also have plans in place to discount our goods once in a while and also to reward our loyal customers from time to time.

• Payment Options

The payment policy adopted by Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC is all inclusive because we are quite aware that different customers prefer different payment options as it suits them but at the same time, we will ensure that we abide by the financial rules and regulation of the United States of America.

Here are the payment options that Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC will make available to her clients;

• Payment via bank transfer
• Payment via credit cards / Point of Sale Machines (POS Machines)
• Payment via POS machines
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via bank draft

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will enable our clients make payment for farm produces purchase without any stress on their part. Our bank account numbers will be made available on our website and promotional materials.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

This is the key areas where we will spend our start – up capital;

• The total fee for registering the business in the United States of America – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits as well as the accounting services (software, P.O.S machines and other software) – $3,300.
• Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening of Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC in the amount of $3,500 and as well as flyer printing (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of $3,580.
• The cost for hiring business consultant – $2,500.
• The cost for insurance (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $2,400.
• The cost for payment of rent for 12 month at $1.76 per square feet warehouse facility in the total amount of $105,600.
• The total cost for warehouse facility remodeling (construction of racks and shelves) – $20,000.
• Other start-up expenses including stationery ($500) and phone and utility deposits ($2,500).
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $60,000
• The cost for Start-up inventory (stocking with a wide range of beverages, and carbonated soft drinks) – $100,000
• Storage hardware (bins, rack, shelves, food case) – $3,720
• The cost for store equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $13,750
• The cost of purchase and installation of CCTVs – $5,000
• The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets (Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, Sound System, tables and chairs et al) – $4,000.
• The cost for the purchase of distribution vans / trucks – $25,000
• The cost of launching a website –  $600
• The cost for our opening party –  $7,000
• Miscellaneous – $10,000

We would need an estimate of $500,000 to successfully set up our beverage and carbonated soft drinks distribution business in Trenton – New Jersey.

Generating Funds/Startup Capital for Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC

Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC is a private business that is solely owned and financed by Charlie Tango and his immediate family members. They do not intend to welcome any external business partner which is why he has decided to restrict the sourcing of the startup capital to 3 major sources.

• Generate part of the startup capital from personal savings
• Source for soft loans from family members and friends
• Apply for loan from the bank

N.B: We have been able to generate about $200,000 (Personal savings $150,000 and soft loan from family members $50,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $300,000 from our bank. All the papers and documents have been signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited with the amount.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the number of loyal customers that they have, the capacity and competence of the employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business (company), then it won’t be too long before the business close shop.

One of our major goals of starting Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running.

We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to retail / distribute our beverages and carbonated soft drinks a little bit cheaper than what is obtainable in the market and we are well prepared to survive on lower profit margin for a while.

Charlie & Tango Distribution Company®, LLC will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Attached Documents

• Lease (or copies of proposal)
• Franchise agreement
• Purchase agreement
• Articles of Incorporation
• Partnership agreements
• Copies of business licenses and registrations required my us to conduct business
• Copies of contracts with third parties

Include details and studies used in your business plan; for example:

• Brochures and advertising materials
• Industry studies
• Blueprints and plans
• Maps and photos of location
• Magazine or other articles
• Detailed lists of equipment owned or to be purchased
• Copies of leases and contracts
• Letters of support from future customers
• Any other materials needed to support the assumptions in this plan
• Market research studies
• List of assets available as collateral for a loan

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For the development and improvement of any business, be it a small business or a large one, it needs some amount of fundings or loan. To apply for these business loans, you need a set of documents that you can use to sell yourself or your business in the eyes of the lender. Such plans should be simple but exhaustive enough to document the details of a particular company. Create a loan business plan by utilizing some of our plan templates which should help you create an image of the company.

Step 1: Provide an Outline of the Plan

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How To Start A Business In 11 Steps (2024 Guide)

Updated: Apr 7, 2024, 1:44pm

Table of Contents

Before you begin: get in the right mindset, 1. determine your business concept, 2. research your competitors and market, 3. create your business plan, 4. choose your business structure, 5. register your business and get licenses, 6. get your finances in order, 7. fund your business, 8. apply for business insurance, 9. get the right business tools, 10. market your business, 11. scale your business, what are the best states to start a business, bottom line, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Starting a business is one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences you can have. But where do you begin? There are several ways to approach creating a business, along with many important considerations. To help take the guesswork out of the process and improve your chances of success, follow our comprehensive guide on how to start a business. We’ll walk you through each step of the process, from defining your business idea to registering, launching and growing your business .

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The public often hears about overnight successes because they make for a great headline. However, it’s rarely that simple—they don’t see the years of dreaming, building and positioning before a big public launch. For this reason, remember to focus on your business journey and don’t measure your success against someone else’s.

Consistency Is Key

New business owners tend to feed off their motivation initially but get frustrated when that motivation wanes. This is why it’s essential to create habits and follow routines that power you through when motivation goes away.

Take the Next Step

Some business owners dive in headfirst without looking and make things up as they go along. Then, there are business owners who stay stuck in analysis paralysis and never start. Perhaps you’re a mixture of the two—and that’s right where you need to be. The best way to accomplish any business or personal goal is to write out every possible step it takes to achieve the goal. Then, order those steps by what needs to happen first. Some steps may take minutes while others take a long time. The point is to always take the next step.

Most business advice tells you to monetize what you love, but it misses two other very important elements: it needs to be profitable and something you’re good at. For example, you may love music, but how viable is your business idea if you’re not a great singer or songwriter? Maybe you love making soap and want to open a soap shop in your small town that already has three close by—it won’t be easy to corner the market when you’re creating the same product as other nearby stores.

If you don’t have a firm idea of what your business will entail, ask yourself the following questions:

• What do you love to do?
• What do you hate to do?
• Can you think of something that would make those things easier?
• What are you good at?
• What do others come to you for advice about?
• If you were given ten minutes to give a five-minute speech on any topic, what would it be?
• What’s something you’ve always wanted to do, but lacked resources for?

These questions can lead you to an idea for your business. If you already have an idea, they might help you expand it. Once you have your idea, measure it against whether you’re good at it and if it’s profitable.

Your business idea also doesn’t have to be the next Scrub Daddy or Squatty Potty. Instead, you can take an existing product and improve upon it. You can also sell a digital product so there’s little overhead.

What Kind of Business Should You Start?

Before you choose the type of business to start, there are some key things to consider:

• What type of funding do you have?
• How much time do you have to invest in your business?
• Do you prefer to work from home or at an office or workshop?
• What interests and passions do you have?
• Can you sell information (such as a course), rather than a product?
• What skills or expertise do you have?
• How fast do you need to scale your business?
• What kind of support do you have to start your business?
• Are you partnering with someone else?
• Does the franchise model make more sense to you?

Consider Popular Business Ideas

Not sure what business to start? Consider one of these popular business ideas:

• Start a Franchise
• Start a Blog
• Start an Online Store
• Start a Dropshipping Business
• Start a Cleaning Business
• Start a Bookkeeping Business
• Start a Clothing Business
• Start a Landscaping Business
• Start a Consulting Business
• Start a Photography Business
• Start a Vending Machine Business

Most entrepreneurs spend more time on their products than they do getting to know the competition. If you ever apply for outside funding, the potential lender or partner wants to know: what sets you (or your business idea) apart? If market analysis indicates your product or service is saturated in your area, see if you can think of a different approach. Take housekeeping, for example—rather than general cleaning services, you might specialize in homes with pets or focus on garage cleanups.

Primary Research

The first stage of any competition study is primary research, which entails obtaining data directly from potential customers rather than basing your conclusions on past data. You can use questionnaires, surveys and interviews to learn what consumers want. Surveying friends and family isn’t recommended unless they’re your target market. People who say they’d buy something and people who do are very different. The last thing you want is to take so much stock in what they say, create the product and flop when you try to sell it because all of the people who said they’d buy it don’t because the product isn’t something they’d buy.

Secondary Research

Utilize existing sources of information, such as census data, to gather information when you do secondary research. The current data may be studied, compiled and analyzed in various ways that are appropriate for your needs but it may not be as detailed as primary research.

Conduct a SWOT Analysis

SWOT stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Conducting a SWOT analysis allows you to look at the facts about how your product or idea might perform if taken to market, and it can also help you make decisions about the direction of your idea. Your business idea might have some weaknesses that you hadn’t considered or there may be some opportunities to improve on a competitor’s product.

Asking pertinent questions during a SWOT analysis can help you identify and address weaknesses before they tank your new business.

A business plan is a dynamic document that serves as a roadmap for establishing a new business. This document makes it simple for potential investors, financial institutions and company management to understand and absorb. Even if you intend to self-finance, a business plan can help you flesh out your idea and spot potential problems. When writing a well-rounded business plan, include the following sections:

• Executive summary: The executive summary should be the first item in the business plan, but it should be written last. It describes the proposed new business and highlights the goals of the company and the methods to achieve them.
• Company description: The company description covers what problems your product or service solves and why your business or idea is best. For example, maybe your background is in molecular engineering, and you’ve used that background to create a new type of athletic wear—you have the proper credentials to make the best material.
• Market analysis: This section of the business plan analyzes how well a company is positioned against its competitors. The market analysis should include target market, segmentation analysis, market size, growth rate, trends and a competitive environment assessment.
• Organization and structure: Write about the type of business organization you expect, what risk management strategies you propose and who will staff the management team. What are their qualifications? Will your business be a single-member limited liability company (LLC) or a corporation ?
• Mission and goals: This section should contain a brief mission statement and detail what the business wishes to accomplish and the steps to get there. These goals should be SMART (specific, measurable, action-orientated, realistic and time-bound).
• Products or services: This section describes how your business will operate. It includes what products you’ll offer to consumers at the beginning of the business, how they compare to existing competitors, how much your products cost, who will be responsible for creating the products, how you’ll source materials and how much they cost to make.
• Background summary: This portion of the business plan is the most time-consuming to write. Compile and summarize any data, articles and research studies on trends that could positively and negatively affect your business or industry.
• Marketing plan: The marketing plan identifies the characteristics of your product or service, summarizes the SWOT analysis and analyzes competitors. It also discusses how you’ll promote your business, how much money will be spent on marketing and how long the campaign is expected to last.
• Financial plan: The financial plan is perhaps the core of the business plan because, without money, the business will not move forward. Include a proposed budget in your financial plan along with projected financial statements, such as an income statement, a balance sheet and a statement of cash flows. Usually, five years of projected financial statements are acceptable. This section is also where you should include your funding request if you’re looking for outside funding.

Learn more: Download our free simple business plan template .

Come Up With an Exit Strategy

An exit strategy is important for any business that is seeking funding because it outlines how you’ll sell the company or transfer ownership if you decide to retire or move on to other projects. An exit strategy also allows you to get the most value out of your business when it’s time to sell. There are a few different options for exiting a business, and the best option for you depends on your goals and circumstances.

The most common exit strategies are:

• Selling the business to another party
• Passing the business down to family members
• Liquidating the business assets
• Closing the doors and walking away

Develop a Scalable Business Model

As your small business grows, it’s important to have a scalable business model so that you can accommodate additional customers without incurring additional costs. A scalable business model is one that can be replicated easily to serve more customers without a significant increase in expenses.

Some common scalable business models are:

• Subscription-based businesses
• Businesses that sell digital products
• Franchise businesses
• Network marketing businesses

Start Planning for Taxes

One of the most important things to do when starting a small business is to start planning for taxes. Taxes can be complex, and there are several different types of taxes you may be liable for, including income tax, self-employment tax, sales tax and property tax. Depending on the type of business you’re operating, you may also be required to pay other taxes, such as payroll tax or unemployment tax.

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When structuring your business, it’s essential to consider how each structure impacts the amount of taxes you owe, daily operations and whether your personal assets are at risk.

An LLC limits your personal liability for business debts. LLCs can be owned by one or more people or companies and must include a registered agent . These owners are referred to as members.

• LLCs offer liability protection for the owners
• They’re one of the easiest business entities to set up
• You can have a single-member LLC
• You may be required to file additional paperwork with your state on a regular basis
• LLCs can’t issue stock
• You’ll need to pay annual filing fees to your state

Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)

An LLP is similar to an LLC but is typically used for licensed business professionals such as an attorney or accountant. These arrangements require a partnership agreement.

• Partners have limited liability for the debts and actions of the LLP
• LLPs are easy to form and don’t require much paperwork
• There’s no limit to the number of partners in an LLP
• Partners are required to actively take part in the business
• LLPs can’t issue stock
• All partners are personally liable for any malpractice claims against the business

Sole Proprietorship

If you start a solo business, you might consider a sole proprietorship . The company and the owner, for legal and tax purposes, are considered the same. The business owner assumes liability for the business. So, if the business fails, the owner is personally and financially responsible for all business debts.

• Sole proprietorships are easy to form
• There’s no need to file additional paperwork with your state
• You’re in complete control of the business
• You’re personally liable for all business debts
• It can be difficult to raise money for a sole proprietorship
• The business may have a limited lifespan

Corporation

A corporation limits your personal liability for business debts just as an LLC does. A corporation can be taxed as a C corporation (C-corp) or an S corporation (S-corp). S-corp status offers pass-through taxation to small corporations that meet certain IRS requirements. Larger companies and startups hoping to attract venture capital are usually taxed as C-corps.

• Corporations offer liability protection for the owners
• The life span of a corporation is not limited
• A corporation can have an unlimited number of shareholders
• Corporations are subject to double taxation
• They’re more expensive and complicated to set up than other business structures
• The shareholders may have limited liability

Before you decide on a business structure, discuss your situation with a small business accountant and possibly an attorney, as each business type has different tax treatments that could affect your bottom line.

Helpful Resources

• How To Set Up an LLC in 7 Steps
• How To Start a Sole Proprietorship
• How To Start a Corporation
• How To Start a Nonprofit
• How To Start a 501(c)(3)

There are several legal issues to address when starting a business after choosing the business structure. The following is a good checklist of items to consider when establishing your business:

Choose Your Business Name

Make it memorable but not too difficult. Choose the same domain name, if available, to establish your internet presence. A business name cannot be the same as another registered company in your state, nor can it infringe on another trademark or service mark that is already registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Business Name vs. DBA

There are business names, and then there are fictitious business names known as “Doing Business As” or DBA. You may need to file a DBA if you’re operating under a name that’s different from the legal name of your business. For example, “Mike’s Bike Shop” is doing business as “Mike’s Bikes.” The legal name of the business is “Mike’s Bike Shop,” and “Mike’s Bikes” is the DBA.

You may need to file a DBA with your state, county or city government offices. The benefits of a DBA include:

• It can help you open a business bank account under your business name
• A DBA can be used as a “trade name” to brand your products or services
• A DBA can be used to get a business license

Register Your Business and Obtain an EIN

You’ll officially create a corporation, LLC or other business entity by filing forms with your state’s business agency―usually the Secretary of State. As part of this process, you’ll need to choose a registered agent to accept legal documents on behalf of your business. You’ll also pay a filing fee. The state will send you a certificate that you can use to apply for licenses, a tax identification number (TIN) and business bank accounts.

Next, apply for an employer identification number (EIN) . All businesses, other than sole proprietorships with no employees, must have a federal employer identification number. Submit your application to the IRS and you’ll typically receive your number in minutes.

Get Appropriate Licenses and Permits

Legal requirements are determined by your industry and jurisdiction. Most businesses need a mixture of local, state and federal licenses to operate. Check with your local government office (and even an attorney) for licensing information tailored to your area.

• Best LLC Services
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Open a Business Bank Account

Keep your business and personal finances separate. Here’s how to choose a business checking account —and why separate business accounts are essential. When you open a business bank account, you’ll need to provide your business name and your business tax identification number (EIN). This business bank account can be used for your business transactions, such as paying suppliers or invoicing customers. Most times, a bank will require a separate business bank account to issue a business loan or line of credit.

Hire a Bookkeeper or Get Accounting Software

If you sell a product, you need an inventory function in your accounting software to manage and track inventory. The software should have ledger and journal entries and the ability to generate financial statements.

Some software programs double as bookkeeping tools. These often include features such as check writing and managing receivables and payables. You can also use this software to track your income and expenses, generate invoices, run reports and calculate taxes.

There are many bookkeeping services available that can do all of this for you, and more. These services can be accessed online from any computer or mobile device and often include features such as bank reconciliation and invoicing. Check out the best accounting software for small business, or see if you want to handle the bookkeeping yourself.

Determine Your Break-Even Point

Before you fund your business, you must get an idea of your startup costs. To determine these, make a list of all the physical supplies you need, estimate the cost of any professional services you will require, determine the price of any licenses or permits required to operate and calculate the cost of office space or other real estate. Add in the costs of payroll and benefits, if applicable.

Businesses can take years to turn a profit, so it’s better to overestimate the startup costs and have too much money than too little. Many experts recommend having enough cash on hand to cover six months of operating expenses.

When you know how much you need to get started with your business, you need to know the point at which your business makes money. This figure is your break-even point.

In contrast, the contribution margin = total sales revenue – cost to make product

For example, let’s say you’re starting a small business that sells miniature birdhouses for fairy gardens. You have determined that it will cost you $500 in startup costs. Your variable costs are $0.40 per birdhouse produced, and you sell them for $1.50 each.

Let’s write these out so it’s easy to follow:

This means that you need to sell at least 456 units just to cover your costs. If you can sell more than 456 units in your first month, you will make a profit.

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There are many different ways to fund your business—some require considerable effort, while others are easier to obtain. Two categories of funding exist: internal and external.

Internal funding includes:

• Personal savings
• Credit cards
• Funds from friends and family

If you finance the business with your own funds or with credit cards, you have to pay the debt on the credit cards and you’ve lost a chunk of your wealth if the business fails. By allowing your family members or friends to invest in your business, you are risking hard feelings and strained relationships if the company goes under. Business owners who want to minimize these risks may consider external funding.

External funding includes:

• Small business loans
• Small business grants
• Angel investors
• Venture capital
• Crowdfunding

Small businesses may have to use a combination of several sources of capital. Consider how much money is needed, how long it will take before the company can repay it and how risk-tolerant you are. No matter which source you use, plan for profit. It’s far better to take home six figures than make seven figures and only keep $80,000 of it.

Funding ideas include:

• Invoice factoring: With invoice factoring , you can sell your unpaid invoices to a third party at a discount.
• Business lines of credit: Apply for a business line of credit , which is similar to a personal line of credit. The credit limit and interest rate will be based on your business’s revenue, credit score and financial history.
• Equipment financing: If you need to purchase expensive equipment for your business, you can finance it with a loan or lease.
• Small Business Administration (SBA) microloans: Microloans are up to $50,000 loans that can be used for working capital, inventory or supplies and machinery or equipment.
• Grants: The federal government offers grants for businesses that promote innovation, export growth or are located in historically disadvantaged areas. You can also find grants through local and regional organizations.
• Crowdfunding: With crowdfunding , you can raise money from a large group of people by soliciting donations or selling equity in your company.

Choose the right funding source for your business by considering the amount of money you need, the time frame for repayment and your tolerance for risk.

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You need to have insurance for your business , even if it’s a home-based business or you don’t have any employees. The type of insurance you need depends on your business model and what risks you face. You might need more than one type of policy, and you might need additional coverage as your business grows. In most states, workers’ compensation insurance is required by law if you have employees.

Work With an Agent To Get Insured

An insurance agent can help determine what coverages are appropriate for your business and find policies from insurers that offer the best rates. An independent insurance agent represents several different insurers, so they can shop around for the best rates and coverage options.

Basic Types of Business Insurance Coverage

• Liability insurance protects your business against third-party claims of bodily injury, property damage and personal injury such as defamation or false advertising.
• Property insurance covers the physical assets of your business, including your office space, equipment and inventory.
• Business interruption insurance pays for the loss of income if your business is forced to close temporarily due to a covered event such as a natural disaster.
• Product liability insurance protects against claims that your products caused bodily injury or property damage.
• Employee practices liability insurance covers claims from employees alleging discrimination, sexual harassment or other wrongful termination.
• Workers’ compensation insurance covers medical expenses and income replacement for employees who are injured on the job.
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Business tools can help make your life easier and make your business run more smoothly. The right tools can help you save time, automate tasks and make better decisions.

Consider the following tools in your arsenal:

• Accounting software : Track your business income and expenses, prepare financial statements and file taxes. Examples include QuickBooks and FreshBooks.
• Customer relationship management (CRM) software : This will help you manage your customer relationships, track sales and marketing data and automate tasks like customer service and follow-ups. Examples include Zoho CRM and monday.com.
• Project management software : Plan, execute and track projects. It can also be used to manage employee tasks and allocate resources. Examples include Airtable and ClickUp.
• Credit card processor : This will allow you to accept credit card payments from customers. Examples include Stripe and PayPal.
• Point of sale (POS) : A system that allows you to process customer payments. Some accounting software and CRM software have POS features built-in. Examples include Clover and Lightspeed.
• Virtual private network (VPN) : Provides a secure, private connection between your computer and the internet. This is important for businesses that handle sensitive data. Examples include NordVPN and ExpressVPN.
• Merchant services : When customers make a purchase, the money is deposited into your business account. You can also use merchant services to set up recurring billing or subscription payments. Examples include Square and Stripe.
• Email hosting : This allows you to create a professional email address with your own domain name. Examples include G Suite and Microsoft Office 365.

Many business owners spend so much money creating their products that there isn’t a marketing budget by the time they’ve launched. Alternatively, they’ve spent so much time developing the product that marketing is an afterthought.

Create a Website

Even if you’re a brick-and-mortar business, a web presence is essential. Creating a website doesn’t take long, either—you can have one done in as little as a weekend. You can make a standard informational website or an e-commerce site where you sell products online. If you sell products or services offline, include a page on your site where customers can find your locations and hours. Other pages to add include an “About Us” page, product or service pages, frequently asked questions (FAQs), a blog and contact information.

Optimize Your Site for SEO

After getting a website or e-commerce store, focus on optimizing it for search engines (SEO). This way, when a potential customer searches for specific keywords for your products, the search engine can point them to your site. SEO is a long-term strategy, so don’t expect a ton of traffic from search engines initially—even if you’re using all the right keywords.

Create Relevant Content

Provide quality digital content on your site that makes it easy for customers to find the correct answers to their questions. Content marketing ideas include videos, customer testimonials, blog posts and demos. Consider content marketing one of the most critical tasks on your daily to-do list. This is used in conjunction with posting on social media.

Get Listed in Online Directories

Customers use online directories like Yelp, Google My Business and Facebook to find local businesses. Some city halls and chambers of commerce have business directories too. Include your business in as many relevant directories as possible. You can also create listings for your business on specific directories that focus on your industry.

Develop a Social Media Strategy

Your potential customers are using social media every day—you need to be there too. Post content that’s interesting and relevant to your audience. Use social media to drive traffic back to your website where customers can learn more about what you do and buy your products or services.

You don’t necessarily need to be on every social media platform available. However, you should have a presence on Facebook and Instagram because they offer e-commerce features that allow you to sell directly from your social media accounts. Both of these platforms have free ad training to help you market your business.

• Best Website Builders
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To scale your business, you need to grow your customer base and revenue. This can be done by expanding your marketing efforts, improving your product or service, collaborating with other creators or adding new products or services that complement what you already offer.

Think about ways you can automate or outsource certain tasks so you can focus on scaling the business. For example, if social media marketing is taking up too much of your time, consider using a platform such as Hootsuite to help you manage your accounts more efficiently. You can also consider outsourcing the time-consumer completely.

You can also use technology to automate certain business processes, including accounting, email marketing and lead generation. Doing this will give you more time to focus on other aspects of your business.

When scaling your business, it’s important to keep an eye on your finances and make sure you’re still profitable. If you’re not making enough money to cover your costs, you need to either reduce your expenses or find ways to increase your revenue.

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As your business grows, you’ll need to delegate tasks and put together a team of people who can help you run the day-to-day operations. This might include hiring additional staff, contractors or freelancers.

Resources for building a team include:

• Hiring platforms: To find the right candidates, hiring platforms, such as Indeed and Glassdoor, can help you post job descriptions, screen résumés and conduct video interviews.
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• Freelance platforms: Using Upwork, Freelancer and Fiverr can help you find talented freelancers for one-time or short-term projects. You can also outsource certain tasks, such as customer service, social media marketing or bookkeeping.

You might also consider partnering with other businesses in your industry. For example, if you’re a wedding planner, you could partner with a florist, photographer, catering company or venue. This way, you can offer your customers a one-stop shop for all their wedding needs. Another example is an e-commerce store that partners with a fulfillment center. This type of partnership can help you save money on shipping and storage costs, and it can also help you get your products to your customers faster.

To find potential partnerships, search for businesses in your industry that complement what you do. For example, if you’re a web designer, you could partner with a digital marketing agency.

You can also search for businesses that serve the same target market as you but offer different products or services. For example, if you sell women’s clothing, you could partner with a jewelry store or a hair salon.

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To rank the best states to start a business in 2024, Forbes Advisor analyzed 18 key metrics across five categories to determine which states are the best and worst to start a business in. Our ranking takes into consideration factors that impact businesses and their ability to succeed, such as business costs, business climate, economy, workforce and financial accessibility in each state. Check out the full report .

Starting a small business takes time, effort and perseverance. But if you’re willing to put in the work, it can be a great way to achieve your dreams and goals. Be sure to do your research, create a solid business plan and pivot along the way. Once you’re operational, don’t forget to stay focused and organized so you can continue to grow your business.

How do I start a small business with no money?

There are several funding sources for brand-new businesses and most require a business plan to secure it. These include the SBA , private grants, angel investors, crowdfunding and venture capital.

What is the best business structure?

The best business structure for your business will depend entirely on what kind of company you form, your industry and what you want to accomplish. But any successful business structure will be one that will help your company set realistic goals and follow through on set tasks.

Do I need a business credit card?

You don’t need one, but a business credit card can be helpful for new small businesses. It allows you to start building business credit, which can help you down the road when you need to take out a loan or line of credit. Additionally, business credit cards often come with rewards and perks that can save you money on business expenses.

Do I need a special license or permit to start a small business?

The answer to this question will depend on the type of business you want to start and where you’re located. Some businesses, such as restaurants, will require a special permit or license to operate. Others, such as home daycare providers, may need to register with the state.

How much does it cost to create a business?

The cost of starting a business will vary depending on the size and type of company you want to create. For example, a home-based business will be less expensive to start than a brick-and-mortar store. Additionally, the cost of starting a business will increase if you need to rent or buy commercial space, hire employees or purchase inventory. You could potentially get started for free by dropshipping or selling digital goods.

How do I get a loan for a new business?

The best way to get a loan for a new business is to approach banks or other financial institutions and provide them with a business plan and your financial history. You can also look into government-backed loans, such as those offered by the SBA. Startups may also be able to get loans from alternative lenders, including online platforms such as Kiva.

Do I need a business degree to start a business?

No, you don’t need a business degree to start a business. However, acquiring a degree in business or a related field can provide you with the understanding and ability to run an effective company. Additionally, you may want to consider taking some business courses if you don’t have a degree to learn more about starting and running a business. You can find these online and at your local Small Business Administration office.

What are some easy businesses to start?

One of the easiest businesses to start also has the lowest overhead: selling digital goods. This can include items such as e-books, online courses, audio files or software. If you have expertise in a particular area or niche, this is a great option for you. Dropshipping is also a great option because you don’t have to keep inventory. You could also buy wholesale products or create your own. Once you create your product, you can sell it through your own website or third-party platforms such as Amazon or Etsy.

What is the most profitable type of business?

There is no one answer to this question because the most profitable type of business will vary depending on a number of factors, such as your industry, location, target market and business model. However, some businesses tend to be more profitable than others, such as luxury goods, high-end services, business-to-business companies and subscription-based businesses. If you’re not sure what type of business to start, consider your strengths and interests, as well as the needs of your target market, to help you choose a profitable business idea.

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Katherine Haan is a small business owner with nearly two decades of experience helping other business owners increase their incomes.

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What is student loan consolidation?

Will my interest rate go up if i consolidate my student loans, i don’t know if i’m eligible for student loan forgiveness. should i still consolidate my loans, how to consolidate your student loans, what happens if you miss the deadline, student loan forgiveness deadline: there are 10 days left to maximize your debt relief.

You can still consolidate your loans after June 30, but may not receive key student loan forgiveness benefits.

Courtney Johnston

Senior Editor

Courtney Johnston is a senior editor leading the CNET Money team. Passionate about financial literacy and inclusion, she has a decade of experience as a freelance journalist covering policy, financial news, real estate and investing. A New Jersey native, she graduated with an M.A. in English Literature and Professional Writing from the University of Indianapolis, where she also worked as a graduate writing instructor.

Tiffany Connors

Tiffany Wendeln Connors is a senior editor for CNET Money with a focus on credit cards. Previously, she covered personal finance topics as a writer and editor at The Penny Hoarder. She is passionate about helping people make the best money decisions for themselves and their families. She graduated from Bowling Green State University with a bachelor's degree in journalism and has been a writer and editor for publications including the New York Post, Women's Running magazine and Soap Opera Digest. When she isn't working, you can find her enjoying life in St. Petersburg, Florida, with her husband, daughter and a very needy dog.

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Key takeaways

• Consolidating federal student loans that aren’t currently eligible for forgiveness programs could help you qualify for debt relief.
• You must consolidate by June 30th to apply for this one-time benefit.
• You can consolidate your loans online. The process takes about 30 minutes.

If you have federal student loans, an important debt relief deadline is approaching.

You have until June 30 to apply to consolidate your federal student loans to potentially boost your loan forgiveness amount.

The Department of Education has been reviewing past payment counts for borrowers since May 1, as part of a one-time program that will help reevaluate which payments will count towards forgiveness programs, such as income-driven repayment plans like SAVE and the Public Service Forgiveness Program . However, not all federal student loans currently qualify for debt relief programs.

That’s where loan consolidation comes in. If you have a federal student loan that’s not eligible for a forgiveness program, consolidating it into a new Direct Loan could help you qualify for debt relief, get your loans out of default and offer other student loan benefits. But to ensure your previous loan payments are included in your loan’s new payment count, you’ll need to apply for consolidation by the end of June.

For many borrowers, consolidating your federal student loans will help -- but it’s not the right move for everyone. I talked to financial aid expert Mark Kantrowitz to learn more about this one-time consolidation option, how it could maximize your debt relief and who should consider it.

Read mor e: Student Loan Payments Will Be Paused in July for Nearly a Million Borrowers

Student loan debt consolidation is similar to refinancing -- it lets you combine your existing federal student loans into a new loan with a fixed interest rate.

Why would you want to do this? If you hold FFELP, Perkins and other nondirect federal student loans, they may not be eligible for forgiveness programs. By consolidating them into a new Direct Loan and enrolling in an income-driven repayment plan, you may be eligible for automatic loan cancellation, interest forgiveness or other debt relief benefits.

If you qualify for an IDR plan and have been making payments for 20-25 years, your entire balance could be forgiven automatically.

And there are other benefits to loan consolidation. Having one student loan to keep track of, rather than many, can also make it easier to manage payments. Depending on the payment plan you choose, a consolidation loan could lower your monthly payments but also extend your repayment period. But if you’re eligible for forgiveness after consolidating, this might not be much of a concern.

Even if you already have Direct Loans, you might benefit from consolidating if you have more than one with different repayment start dates, said Kantrowitz, who’s also a member of CNET Money’s Expert Review Board .

Private student loan companies also offer debt consolidation for student loans. Even if these programs offer lower interest rates or other perks, converting your federal student loan into a private loan rarely makes sense. Private student loans are not eligible for federal income-driven repayment programs or federal debt relief.

Read more: Did You Default on Your Student Loans? You May Qualify for This Debt Relief Program

If you currently have low interest rates on your federal student loans, you won’t have to worry about your new consolidated rate spiking -- in most cases.

Your new Direct Consolidation Loan’s interest rate will be based on a weighted average of the loans you consolidate and it will be rounded up to the next 1/8th of 1%, according to Federal Student Aid , the Department of Education’s official student loan website.

There’s one exception, though. If you have a FFELP loan, you might lose some benefits when consolidating. “The main issue is borrowers who have a big interest rate reduction from the FFELP lender,” said Kantrowitz. “These discounts are provided by the lender and will disappear if you consolidate the loans.” 

You don’t have to consolidate all of your loans, so you might exclude your FFELP loans if you want to keep your current discount. You’ll need to weigh whether you qualify for forgiveness and how consolidating might affect your monthly student loan payment to decide if consolidating is right for you.

If you have unpaid interest on a student loan, it will be capitalized when you consolidate the loan and could increase your principal balance. Factor that in when deciding how much your new monthly payment would be and how much you may qualify for in forgiveness. 

For many borrowers, consolidating your federal student loans will help lower your monthly payment and could maximize your potential debt relief. If you currently hold federal student loans that are not Direct Loans, it can be particularly beneficial. Consolidating can also help you lock in a fixed interest rate if any of your federal student loans have a variable rate.

The latest student loan forgiveness program takes into account the date of your first student loan payment. Consolidating your loans helps ensure you get credit for your new Direct Loan starting with your earlier loan payment date.

So, let’s say you graduated from college and made your first federal student loan payment in 2004. Later, you went back to school for a second degree and started paying those loans in 2010. Under an income-driven repayment plan with a 20-year path to forgiveness, you might be eligible to have your loans from 2004 forgiven this year. But by consolidating your more recent loans with your older ones into one new Direct Loan, your entire balance could be wiped out this year. 

Even if you graduated more recently, consolidating your federal loans and enrolling in an IDR can help you get access to forgiveness sooner. And if you only have one student loan, if it’s not a Direct Loan, you may also benefit from consolidating. 

But if you don’t qualify for debt relief, it may not make sense to go through this step. “If you are not currently pursuing any kind of forgiveness (e.g., not even IDR forgiveness) and expect to never pursue forgiveness, then you don’t need to do it, ” said Kantrowitz.

You can consolidate your federal student loans online at StudentAid.gov. You’ll need to submit your application before midnight local time on June 30 to meet the deadline. You can consolidate after this date, but would miss out on some benefits.

To fill out the application, you’ll need your Federal Student Aid ID, some personal information, financial information and loan information to fill out the application. The FSA website says it takes approximately 30 minutes to complete the application for consolidating your loans.

You can fill out the application now at studentaid.gov/loan-consolidation . 

Once you apply, it can take up to 60 days to process your consolidation, said Kantrowitz. In the meantime, you might see your student loan payment count drop to zero. Don’t panic if this happens. It just means your adjustment count is being worked on.

If you consolidate your loans after the June 30 deadline, you can still get credit for past payments made on direct loans. But you might not get as much credit. Instead, your payment count would be based on a weighted average or may reset to zero. But, you could still gain access to a debt relief program.

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