Writing your first business plan is a pivotal step in transitioning from an idea to a tangible enterprise. As a business advisor in Australia, we’ve guided many entrepreneurs through this process. A well-structured business plan not only helps in securing funding and attracting investors but also serves as a roadmap for your business journey. Here are key considerations to keep in mind while crafting your first business plan.

1. Executive Summary

  • Business Overview: Start with a concise summary of your business. Outline what your business does, the problem it solves, and the opportunity it presents.
  • Mission and Vision: Clearly state your mission and vision. This sets the tone for your business’s goals and aspirations.

2. Market Analysis

  • Target Market: Identify and describe your target market. Understanding your audience is crucial for tailoring your products or services.
  • Competitive Landscape: Analyse your competitors. Know their strengths and weaknesses and how your business will differentiate itself.

3. Business Model and Offerings

  • Products/Services: Detail what you are selling or offering. Describe the benefits and why customers would choose your product or service.
  • Revenue Streams: Explain how your business will make money. This includes pricing strategy, sales, and distribution methods.

4. Marketing and Sales Strategy

  • Marketing Plan: Develop a marketing plan that outlines how you will attract and retain customers. Include both online and offline strategies.
  • Sales Approach: Describe your sales strategy. How will you sell your product or service? Who will sell it? What is the sales process?

5. Operational Plan

  • Day-to-Day Operations: Describe the operational aspects of your business. This includes location, facilities, equipment, suppliers, and personnel.
  • Production Plan: If you’re manufacturing products, outline your production plan including the production process, capacity, and quality control measures.

6. Management and Organisational Structure

  • Management Team: Highlight the background and experience of your management team. Demonstrate their capability to lead the venture to success.
  • Organisational Structure: Define the organisational structure and how different roles within the business interact.

7. Financial Plan and Projections

  • Financial Statements: Include essential financial statements – a projected income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement.
  • Financial Projections: Provide financial projections for the next three to five years. Be realistic and base your projections on market research and realistic assumptions.

8. Funding Requirements and Sources

  • Capital Needs: If you’re seeking funding, clearly state how much capital you need and how it will be used.
  • Potential Funding Sources: Identify potential sources of funding, such as loans, investors, or grants.

9. Risk Analysis

  • Identify Risks: Acknowledge potential risks and challenges your business may face and how you plan to mitigate them.

10. Appendix

  • Supporting Documents: Include any additional information, such as resumes of your management team, legal documents, detailed market research data, or product information.


Your first business plan is more than a document; it’s a reflection of your vision and strategy. It should be clear, comprehensive, and realistic. Remember, it’s not set in stone; your business plan should evolve as your business grows. As a business advisor, I recommend revisiting and updating your business plan regularly to align with your business’s trajectory and market dynamics.