10 top business plan templates every startup should use


Starting a business requires careful planning, from identifying your target audience and creating a marketing strategy to estimating your financial projections. While it may seem overwhelming, using a business plan template can streamline the process and help you create a well-organized and comprehensive plan that outlines your goals and objectives.

Here are the top 10 business plan templates that every startup should use to establish a well-rounded plan for success:

1. SCORE Business Plan Template: The Service Corp of Retired Executives (SCORE) is a nonprofit organization that offers business planning resources for startups. Their business plan template includes sections such as executive summary, business description, market analysis, and more.

2. U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Business Plan Template: The SBA provides a comprehensive business plan template that covers all aspects of starting and operating a business, including market research, financial projections, and operation plans.

3. Bplans Business Plan Template: Bplans offers a free business plan template that includes sample plans and step-by-step guidance for creating your own plan with sections such as executive summary, company description, market analysis, and more.

4. LivePlan Business Plan Template: LivePlan is a software platform that provides a customizable business plan template with industry-specific market research and financial projections.

5. Lean Canvas: The Lean Canvas is a one-page business plan template that helps startups identify their key business components, such as customers, channels, and revenue streams, to create a concise and clear business plan.

6. Gusto’s Business Resources Center: Gusto, an HR and payroll software provider, offers various business resources, including a business plan template that covers all aspects of starting a business, from market research to financial projections.

7. HubSpot Business Plan Template: HubSpot, a marketing and sales software provider, offers a free business plan template that includes sections such as executive summary, company description, market analysis, and a sales and marketing plan.

8. Microsoft Office Business Plan Template: Microsoft Office provides a basic business plan template that includes sections such as executive summary, market analysis, and financial projections.

9. Shopify Business Plan Template: Shopify, an e-commerce platform, offers an e-commerce business plan template that includes sections such as product descriptions, target audience, and sales and marketing plans.

10. StartUp Financial Model: StartUp Financial Model is a financial modeling software that includes a business plan template focused on financial projections, including cash flow forecasts, income statements, and balance sheets.

In conclusion, choosing an appropriate business plan template can streamline your planning process and ensure you cover all necessary aspects of your business. By utilizing one of these top 10 templates, you can develop a comprehensive and well-organized plan, increasing your chances of success.