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Writing a Business Plan Without the Jargon

A business plan doesn’t need to be a fifty-page document full of buzzwords — it needs to answer a handful of honest questions clearly enough that you (and anyone you’re asking for money) actually understand the business.

The questions worth answering

  • What are you actually selling, and to whom? Be specific — “everyone” isn’t a customer.
  • Why would someone choose you over what they’re doing now, or over a competitor?
  • How will you reach customers and get them to actually buy?
  • What will it cost, and when do you expect to be profitable?
  • What could go wrong, and what’s your plan if it does?

Keep it useful, not impressive

A short plan you’ll actually refer back to is worth more than a long one written to look good once and never opened again. Write it for yourself first — if you’re showing it to a lender or investor, you can always add polish later.

If you’d like a second set of eyes on the numbers side of your plan, that’s exactly the kind of thing we’re happy to help with.