2. Your Task  As a sole proprietor, create a hypothetical future business in the Capital Region  Present your business plan to the class

3. A Word to the Wise…  Business ideas begin small and grow in time  Do not try to be everything to everyone  Offer something unique and of value to yourself

4. Step 1: Project Approval Sheet  By April 19 th, you will need to submit a project approval sheet  Items to include:  Nature of the business  Storefront  Why your business is needed  Name of business  Competition and differentiation

5. Step 2: Business Profile  Due April 26 th,can be completed in project packet.  Items to include:  Reasons for success  Market needs  Individuals/Businesses that need your business  Differentiation  Number of employees, salaries/wages, with explanation  Chart of projected sales, costs, and profits, graphs of sales

6. Steps 3 and 4: Market and Marketing Strategies  Due May 3 rd, can be completed in project packet  Questions to answer:  What is the market for your product?  Who is your competition?  How is your product unique?  How will you advertise your business?  You will need to include an example of print or media advertising.

7. Steps 5 and 6: Management and Organizational Structure and Funding  Due May 10 th, can be completed in project packet  Items to include:  How will you set up your business?  How will you fund your initial start-up costs?  What is your long range financial strategy  What future funding do you foresee yourself needing?

8. Step 7: Executive Summary  Company overview  Gives your reader a thought of what your company is all about  Include Mission Statement  Perceived need for your company

9. Step 8: Paper  Final Paper will be due May 16 th  You will need:  1 page Executive Summary  This is your business idea in one page, branding, location  4 to 5 page paper including Steps 2,3,4,5,6  Works Cited

10. Step 9: PowerPoint Presentation  A printed copy of your presentation is due May 24 th, you PowerPoint should include the key points you wish to make during your presentation  Presentation guidelines will be given after the paper has been submitted.

11. For additional help….  http://www.sba.gov/category/navigation- structure/starting-managing-business/starting- business/how-write-business-plan http://www.sba.gov/category/navigation- structure/starting-managing-business/starting- business/how-write-business-plan

12. Period 9- Work Days 4/17 and 4/18Library 4/23 and 4/25Library 4/30 and 5/2Library MONDAY 5/6Library 5/9A-7 5/14Library 5/16A-7 5/21 and 5/23Library

13. Period 8- Work Days 4/17 and 4/18A-7 4/23 and 4/25Library 4/30 and 5/2Library 5/7 Library 5/9A-7 5/14 and 5/16Library 5/21 Library 5/23A-7