Guidelines for the Business Plan

The plan may contain up to 10 pages of actual text (not counting contact sheet, cover page or table of contents) plus up to 5 additional pages of tables, exhibits, figures and appendices. Nothing beyond these page limitations is permitted.  Both for-profit and not-for-profit business plans accepted.

Each business plan must contain a:

  • Contact sheet
  • Cover page
  • Table of contents

Below are the guidelines for the business plan.

Executive Summary:

  • Company Name
  • Brief History and Description of the Business
  • Brief Overview of the Market and Trends
  • Brief Strategy and Keys to Success

Company Products and Services:

  • Description of Product and Service
  • Customer Benefits

Market and Competitive Analysis:

  • Target Market
  • Market Needs
  • Market Size and Trends
  • Historical Growth Projected
  • Industry Analysis
  • Major Industry Competitors

Business Strategy and Marketing Plan:

  • Why Buy from you? (Value Proposition)
  • Competitive Advantages
  • Marketing Targets and Strategy
    • Pricing Strategy
    • Advertising and Promotion Strategy
    • Distribution Strategy
    • Marketing Programs
    • Sales Strategy

Production Plan:

  • Production Processes

Financial Plan:

  • Income Statement
  • Projected Profit and Loss
  • Projected Cash Flow
  • Insurance Requirements

Organizational Summary:

  • Organization Chart and Structure
  • Submission of Completed Business Plans