1. Structure of a Business Plan

2. Executive Summary
This gives an overall view of the business and its potential. It summarises the entire business plan in one page or less.

3. Company description Aims and objectives of the business
What the business is proposing to do
Where it will be located
Product or service being offered

4. Organisation and management structure
Details of owners and management: qualifications, work experience and current status, and all staffing requirements

5. Market research and analysis
Target market selection and customer profile
Primary and secondary research
Market positioning, size and share
Nature of competition
Unique selling point

6. Marketing plan and strategy
Marketing mix: product, price, place, promotion
Sales plan
Distribution and promotion strategy
Pricing strategy

7. Production and Operations
Required capacity and quality issues
Level of capital expenditure required
Production plan and costings
Description of plant and equipment needed
Labour force and training requirements
Suppliers and sourcing of materials

8. Venture Team Outline of prospective shareholders The management team
Nature of responsibilities and organisation structure
List of external bodies used, such as accountants, solicitors, consultants etc

9. Financial plan
Details of the financial investment required to set up the business.
Borrowing requirements, shareholder funds, grants etc

10. Appendices Profit and loss and balance sheet projections
Sales and cash flow projections
Details of workings and calculations (e.g. results of market research undertaken)
Costings and pricing for the product or service
Any other relevant and detailed information.