The 5 Key Sections Every Business Plan Needs

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A Simple Business Plan Outline for First-Time Founders

Whether you’re applying for a loan, pitching to investors, or just getting organized, a strong business plan helps you clarify your vision—and communicate it to others.

But if you’re staring at a blank page thinking, Where do I start?—you’re not alone.

The good news is that most lenders and advisors don’t want a 50-page report. They want something clear, simple, and structured.

This guide gives you a straightforward business plan outline with the five essential sections every plan should include.

Why Your Business Plan Matters

Your business plan shows that you’ve thought through the key parts of your business:

  • What you do

  • Who you serve

  • How you’ll make money

  • What you need

  • And how you’ll succeed

A great plan doesn’t just help you get funding—it also helps you stay focused as you grow.

A Simple 5-Part Business Plan Outline

You can use this outline whether you’re writing a formal plan for a lender or a quick version for internal planning. Here’s what to include:

1. Executive Summary

Think of this as your “elevator pitch” in written form. It should give readers a quick overview of your business, goals, and why you’re seeking funding (if applicable).

Include:

  • What your business does

  • Who your customers are

  • What problem you solve

  • Your mission or goals

  • How much funding you need and why (if applicable)

📌 Tip: Write this section last—it’s easier after the other sections are done.

2. Business Description

This section paints a fuller picture of your business. It answers the “who, what, and why” of your company.

Include:

  • Your business name and structure (LLC, sole proprietor, etc.)

  • Founding date and current location

  • Your background and qualifications

  • What product or service you provide

  • What makes you different from competitors

3. Market Analysis & Sales Plan

Here, you’ll show that you understand your industry and have a plan to find and serve customers.

Include:

  • A short description of your target customer

  • Market size or local demand

  • Key competitors and how you stand out

  • How you plan to attract, sell to, and retain customers

📌 Don’t worry about charts or data unless you have it—keep it practical and real.

4. Operations Plan

This section shows how your business runs day to day and how it will deliver what you promise.

Include:

  • Your location (retail, online, mobile, etc.)

  • Staff or roles needed

  • Equipment, supplies, or systems used

  • Key processes or tools (e.g., software, payment systems)

5. Financials & Funding Request

This section is especially important if you’re applying for funding. Even simple estimates help show lenders you’ve done your homework.

Include:

  • Startup costs or current expenses

  • Revenue projections for 12–24 months

  • Profit margin goals

  • Break-even estimate

  • How much funding you’re requesting and how it will be used

📌 Not sure where to start? Round numbers and realistic ranges are okay for now.

Final Thoughts

A business plan doesn’t have to be perfect—it just needs to make sense.

Start with this five-part outline and fill in what you know. You can refine it later as your business evolves or as lenders ask for more detail.

✅ Want a Fill-in-the-Blank Template?

Download our Ultimate Business Funding Guide to get a free Business Plan Template, financial worksheet, and checklist of what lenders look for.

Or Get Pre-qualified (below) to explore funding options tailored to your business goals—even if you’re just starting out.

Get Pre-qualified Today!