Greene County Economic Development Corporation

Step 4: Write the Business Plan

What exactly is a business plan? It is a “proposed course of action for a business.” It is a road map that answers three questions: Where am I now? Where am I going? How will I get there?

Why write a business plan? The #1 reason is for YOU to map out your business, make sure that you have considered all the details. The #2 reason is typically to get financing as most banks or investors will require a business plan. Versions of your business plan can also be used to gain credibility with new suppliers, customers, get feedback from consultants and/or advisors, and getting key employees or partners on board.

ONLINE BUSINESS PLANNING RESOURCES

• SCORE website: Offers many detailed business plan outlines.
• INVenture Business Planner offered through the Agricultural Innovation & Commercialization Center at Purdue University (free)
• SmallBizNavigator offered through the Indiana Small Business Development Center (business plan portion costs $59)
• Business plan examples, video clips, glossary and related publications offered through the Agricultural Innovation & Commercialization Center at Purdue University

BUSINESS PLAN CLASSES (please inquire directly for next scheduled class)

• Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Bloomington (nominal fee)
• Greene County Learning Center in Switz City (nominal fee).

CONSULTING & FEEDBACK

• Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Bloomington (free)
• Consultations are available through the Agricultural Innovation & Commercialization Center at Purdue University (free)
• Rural Entrepreneur Network (cost is $25 per session, located in Bedford)
• Service Core of Retired Executives (SCORE) offers free, online answers and advice to your questions.

TIP: Getting input on your business plan is critical. After you have a draft completed, give it to a trusted family member or business associate to get some feedback.

• Back to Business/Entrepreneurial Resources