To start a small business, a written plan is essential to a successful journey. The SBA offers advice on how to create a business plan, what should be included, and how to use the plan effectively. 

·         Starting a Business Readiness Assessment
Determine an organization’s readiness to start a business

·         Free Online Courses and Podcasts
Get educated about the ins and outs of starting a business using these resources

·         Business Planning FAQs
Learn answers to the most popular business plan questions

·         A Business Plan: The Roadmap To Success
Read the SBA's guide to developing a comprehensive business plan

·         Interactive Business Planner
Use this step-by-step business planning tool for new or existing businesses created by the Canadian Business Resource Center

·         Strategic Planning
Learn to strategize effectively and take a free online course

·         Essential Elements of a Good Business Plan
Review an outline of how to write a business plan

·         Sample Business Plans
Use examples to learn how to create a business plan

·         Writing The Business Plan
Get detailed, step-by-step explanation to help write a plan
 

·         Business Plan Workshop
Access this online workshop to help start and improve a business plan

·         Using The Business Plan
Learn how to get the most out of a business plan

·         Finding a Niche
Identify a corner of the market to ensure success

DISCLAIMER:  This content has not been approved, disapproved or otherwise acted upon by any senior technical committees of, and does not represent an official position of, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. It is distributed with the understanding that the contributing authors and editors, and the publisher, are not rendering legal, accounting, or other professional services in this content. If legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought.