How to Create a Business Plan {Investors Will Be Eager to Fund}
Oluwatobiloba Emmanuel
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A well-crafted business plan does more than just explain what your company does, how you generate revenue, or where you’re headed. It should captivate the reader, inspire confidence, and ignite excitement about the opportunity to invest. Your goal is to demonstrate that your business is more than just an idea—it's a lucrative opportunity waiting to be embraced.
But how exactly do you craft a business plan that grabs investors’ attention? If you're a first-time founder or didn't attend business school, the task can feel overwhelming. But don't worry—this guide is here to simplify the process!
We’ll walk you through the essential steps to write a business plan that speaks directly to investors' needs. This includes answering the critical questions that potential investors care about and showcasing your answers in a way that will make them eager to partner with you.
Plus, we've included extra resources to make your journey even easier.
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The Big Picture:
Writing a Business Plan That Investors Can’t Resist
Writing a business plan for investors is crucial, and while there are 14 key sections to cover, it’s important to remember that brevity is essential. The average business plan should ideally be around 15-20 pages—not a lengthy saga. In the past, business plans spanned 40 to 100 pages, but investors didn’t have the time or patience to read all that. The goal is to present your business clearly and concisely.
Investors look for founders who can provide value in the least amount of time, and your business plan is a reflection of your ability to do that.
The Big Questions Every Investor Wants Answered
By the time an investor finishes reading your business plan, they should clearly understand:
Your business plan should answer these questions and prove that your company has the right product, market, team, timing, and strategy to offer investors a substantial return on their investment.
Breaking Down the Business Plan
1. Executive Summary
The Executive Summary is your chance to make a lasting first impression. This is where you provide a snapshot of your business—what you do, why it matters, and why it’s exciting. Keep it brief and engaging. Include a mission statement, product/service summary, market opportunity, traction summary, and your vision for the future.
Pro Tip: Although it comes first, it's often best to write the Executive Summary last after you’ve outlined the other sections of your plan.
2. Investment Opportunity
This section is where you make the case for why investors should back your company. Be clear about:
Make sure to answer the critical question: Why is now the perfect time for investors to jump in?
3. Team Overview
In this section, introduce the key players who will help make your business a success. Include each team member's name, role, professional background, key skills, and responsibilities at your company. Make the case for why this team is uniquely qualified to execute the plan.
Pro Tip: Keep it professional. Avoid including hobbies or fun facts here.
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4. Market Opportunity
This section explains why your product or service is needed. Address:
Also, demonstrate how trends and customer pain points align to create an ideal environment for your business to thrive.
5. Company Synopsis
Here, describe what your company does in simple terms. Outline your products or services, how they solve customer problems, and what sets your business apart from others. Make it clear why your company is positioned for success.
6. Revenue Model
Explain how your company makes money. Include current and future revenue streams, pricing strategy, and the costs involved. Make sure investors understand how your pricing compares to competitors and when you expect to start generating significant revenue.
7. Traction/Company Milestones
Investors want to see proof that your business isn’t just an idea. In this section, highlight key achievements like product development progress, early customers, partnerships, testimonials, press mentions, and any intellectual property.
8. Industry Analysis
Provide a high-level overview of the industry you're entering. Include data on industry size, growth potential, and customer demand. Additionally, offer a competitor analysis, detailing their strengths and weaknesses and how your business stands out.
Pro Tip: Think beyond direct competitors—include any entities offering solutions that could address the same customer pain points.
9. Differentiating Factors
This section focuses on your unique selling points—what sets your product/service apart from others in the market. Identify key differentiators that give your business a long-term competitive edge.
10. Target Audience
Show that you deeply understand your target customers. Define who they are, their demographics, and what drives their purchasing decisions. The more specific you can be, the better.
11. User Acquisition and Marketing Strategy
Describe how you plan to attract your first customers and scale. Will you focus on specific geographic regions, social media platforms, or strategic partnerships? Outline your marketing approach and why it will resonate with your target audience.
12. Future Growth and Development
This section outlines your long-term vision for growth. What new products are you planning to launch? Will you expand into new markets? Discuss potential exit strategies, such as acquisition or an IPO.
13. Financial Overview
Your financials are a key part of your business plan. Include:
These documents will give investors insight into your company’s financial health and projected profitability.
Ready to Start Writing Your Business Plan?
This guide has outlined the key steps to creating an investor-ready business plan. While it may seem like a big task, rest assured—you don't have to navigate it alone. With the expertise of Oluwatobiloba G, you can access the right resources and tools to make the process easier and more efficient.
Start planning today and enjoy an exclusive 30% discount on Oluwatobiloba G's services. Take the next step towards your business success now! Check it out here.