Whether you’re launching a start-up and need additional funds or seeking partners for an exciting project, the way you present your business can help close the deal. Putting together a sharp, concise, and compelling small business plan could open up more opportunities for your company. Consider the following tips for crafting one designed to leave a memorable and positive impression.

Tips to Make Your Small Business Plan Shine

1. Provide Realistic Financials

Include financials that are realistically achievable. Keep the numbers on the conservative side when it comes to sales, revenue, and profits. If you’re an established company, provide a snapshot of past quarterly or annual earnings. If you’re a new firm, research first-year earnings at a few public companies similar to yours. Find the middle ground and include estimates in your small business plan.

2. Incorporate Eye-Catching Visuals

Break up text with graphics that will support your company’s vision. This can consist of pie charts, bar graphs, pictures, and other visuals. The goal is to present them so that they complement and accommodate your small business plan.

3. Tailor to Different Audiences

Create several versions of your plan so that it reaches a range of audiences. For example, a small business plan to present to a lender will look different from one that’s seen by a potential industry collaborator. If you’re submitting to a school district or government agency during the request for proposals to secure a contract, you may also need to do additional tweaking. 

4. Provide Back-Up to Claims

Be prepared to provide substantial documentation to back up any claims made in your small business plan. Whether it’s an innovative product or a service that will shake up traditional techniques, include the research you’ve conducted, professional endorsements, resumes, and contact information of specialists who are available to provide support. 

As the face of your company, you always want the impression to be positive and lasting. The Greater North County Chamber of Commerce has the resources to help you create a powerful small business plan. Based in Florissant, MO, the organization caters to a wide range of firms throughout the St. Louis region. As a member of the chamber, you’ll have access to experienced business development consultants, high-profile networking events, and much more to help start and grow your firm. To learn more about becoming a member, visit the website or call (314) 831-3500 to speak to a friendly representative.