Business plan templates anybody??

Have you tried Score?

http://www.score.org/content/search/all/657,639/all/73/10688

 

Take a look around at Staples. They have templates and general "how to " kits for setting up a business: I'd imagine they have something like what you're looking for as well.

 

I was looking around for one too. I just gave up and started my own based on a Google search of what is required to have in a business plan. I was also planning on sharing it minus my personal information once I got it completed, but it will take some time for that to happen. Otherwise, for a Trucking specific plan I think you would have to pay someone to create. Couldn't find anything on the web.

It is ironic to me too. Everyone harps about having a business plan before you start, but it seems that no one does one. IDK.

Bill

 

This is what I was told by my local SBA agent when I asked for a business plan template. "Make your own, from the heart, in your own words. Thats what the bank or lender wants to see. Using something from the internet or another company is nothing more than plagiarism and is usually laughed at." I said "great, care to give me some pointers?" His reply, "You arent ready"

 

My business plan= spend less than I make lol. It's what I got but I would like to do an official one

 

Spending less than you make is always a good plan. Perhaps a bit more of a formalized budget would be in order though. LOL

I am not in a rush to get the business plan done though. I have a little bit of time before I am ready to become an O/O. Besides, I would rather take my time and make a good product. Even if I don't need Mr. Banker to finance a truck, I still need it to review my own goals and strategies.

 

Smart man. Always have a backup plan as well!

 

The SBA website has some tools to help get started on a business plan. There are so many free resources available, there is no need to pay for materials to get started.

http://www.sba.gov/tools/business-plan/1

Also this has been really helpful to me in the past: http://sbdc-longwood.com/business-planning/

 

For in independent O/O a business plan can be fairly basic and shouldn't take a lot of time.

For key things that you need to define (assuming you are building this BEFORE you get started).

1. Single line description of business: What do you do? Seems basic and maybe it is but how many people would you ask say they drive a truck or are an O/O or something basic.

2. The financials - This seems to be the only area that ever gets done.

3. What Are Your Risk Reducing Milestones - As you meet these the risk reduces for your business.

4. Why are you uniquely qualified to succeed. One driver I worked with said because he had no debt.