Start a Business
Simple Business Plan Template
A one-page planning format for turning an idea into a testable business.
Quick Answer
A simple business plan should explain the customer, problem, offer, price, sales channel, startup costs, operating costs, risks, and next milestones. It does not need to be long to be useful. It needs to force clear thinking.
One-Page Template
- Business idea: What are you selling?
- Customer: Who buys it and why now?
- Problem: What pain, desire, or job does it solve?
- Offer: What is included and what is not included?
- Price: What will customers pay and how often?
- Sales channel: How will people find and buy from you?
- Startup costs: What must be paid before first sale?
- Monthly costs: What must be paid even during slow weeks?
- Risks: What could make the plan fail?
- Milestones: What proves the idea is working?
Financial Mini-Plan
Estimate three cases: conservative, expected, and strong. For each, show monthly sales, direct costs, fixed costs, owner pay, taxes, and remaining cash. The conservative case is the one that keeps you honest.
When to Write a Longer Plan
Write a longer plan when seeking a loan, bringing on partners, signing a lease, buying expensive equipment, or entering a regulated industry. A lender or investor may expect more detail.
Next Best Step
Fill the one-page plan, then talk to ten potential customers. Rewrite the plan using what they actually say.