1. Business & Finance

Creating a Business Plan

Information and helpful resources on how to write a business plan. Learn the basic steps from the importance of having a marketing plan to preparing financial assumptions and projections.

Elements of a Business Plan

Learn about the eight basic elements every business plan should include. Also discussed is the appendix, an optional but handy addition.

Plan of Operations

The plan of operations section of the business plan is your A to Z on the running of your business. Break all operating procedures down into daily, weekly and monthly tasks. Then order and explain them in the plan of operations section of your business plan.

Executive Summary

The executive summary portion of the business plan is in the beginning of the business plan. The purpose of the executive summary is to give your reader a thumbnail sketch of the business.

Prepare a Business Plan Before Quitting Your Job to Start a Craft Business

Before you quit a full time job working for someone else to start a craft business make sure you prepare a business plan. Working through the business plan will give you a good idea if you can cover your personal living and business expenses with the new venture.

How to Write a Business Plan

Critical steps to help guide you while writing your business plan.

Creating Your Business Plan Financials

Lenders and investors will want to see your business plan financials before putting money into your business. Well done financial information can help you get loans and attract investors, even in the start-up phase of your business.

Business Plan FAQ

Writing a business plan can be a daunting task. Before you get started, review About.com's Small Business Information FAQ to business plans. All the basic questions that frequently come up are answered here.

Create A Money Winning Business Plan Outline

Everything you need to know to create a money winning business plan outline. Learn what you need make sure your business plan is complete.

One Page Business Plan

If you don't need a business plan to raise money the One Page Business Plan Company provides samples of great one page plans to help you evaluate your company mission, strategy and plans.

Describing Arts and Crafts Products for the Business Plan

Preparing a business plan is very important even if you don't plan on getting outside financing for your arts and crafts business. Writing one makes you focus yourself and alerts you to any potential problems with your business model before you start your business. Find out what you should include when describing your arts and crafts products.

Business Plan Company Information

List the contact information for your business here: name, address, and phone and fax number, how long you have been in business, hours of operation — you get the idea. Remember, the business plan is a work in process. Get the fundamental company facts down on paper now and you’ll find that updating the business plan in the future will be a snap.

Discuss in my forum

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.