Posted by Shoshana/AZ on 2/25/11 11:10pm
Msg #374280

I need a business plan template

Does anyone have one that's free, relatively easy that they are willing to share?
TIA

Reply by Susan Fischer on 2/25/11 11:49pm
Msg #374281

Try this:

http://web.sba.gov/busplantemplate/BizPlanStart.cfm

Way good info at the SBA. The local mentors are fabulous.

Reply by Shoshana/AZ on 2/26/11 8:16am
Msg #374293

Re: Try this:

How do I get a local mentor? This template seems very daunting at best.

Reply by Susan Fischer on 2/26/11 10:16am
Msg #374295

Find a local SBA office and start there. Business Plans

aren't easy.

Reply by Victoria_NJ on 2/26/11 11:14am
Msg #374303

Are you applying for a loan (SBA) or just need a basic outline of how to create a business?

Reply by Michael Gilman on 2/26/11 3:57pm
Msg #374360

Go to SCORE.org for both the template, lots of free help and even a counselor (for free). You can hook up with a local counselor or one like me via email / skype. SCORE is a partner with SBA and is nationwide. Let me know if you need help connecting with a SCORE counselor.

Reply by Susan Fischer on 2/27/11 2:23am
Msg #374421

Horray, Michael. SCORE is exactly what I was trying to

remember.

There is no silver platter. One must be serious and do tons of homework.

For instance, my counselor told me a story about a dog-food entrepreneur who had a great idea for a new dog food. He had done all kinds of homework, invested his sweat, time and money and wasn't making any money.

Bottom line? No one asked the dogs if they liked the dog food.

That was a huge illustration, for me.

Business is serious. Work is hard. I'd take Mr. Gilman up on his offer for a connection - if one is serious about this Entrepreneurial life-style.

jmho.