Business Plans: Templates, Tools & Guidance for Smart Planning
Set your business up for success with free templates, expert insights, and practical planning tools.
At Accion Opportunity Fund (AOF), we help entrepreneurs create business plans that actually work – whether you’re launching a new venture, growing an existing business, or applying for a loan. With our easy-to-use tools, real-world advice, and personalized coaching, you’ll have everything you need to build a business plan with clarity and move forward with confidence.
Plan for Business Growth. Pitch with Confidence.
A strong business plan does more than check a box for lenders or investors – it lays the foundation for every smart business decision you’ll make. Whether you’re just getting started or fine-tuning your strategy, AOF gives you the free tools, templates, and expert support to map out your vision and make it real.
Key Business Plan Topics
What Is a Business Plan & Why It Matters
- Define your goals, market, and financial model
- Use your plan to stay focused and aligned as you grow
- Learn how a strong plan can help secure funding or grants
Business Plan Sections Explained
- Executive Summary: Summarize your vision and value
- Business Description: Define your mission and legal structure
- Market Analysis: Understand your competitors and audience
- Organization and Management: Company’s structure, team roles and operating expenses
- Products and Services – Understanding the value of your offering
- Sales and Marketing: Outline how you’ll attract and retain customers
- Funding Request: how much you need, how that may change over five years, and how the funds will be used
- Financial Plan: Project income, expenses, and cash flow
- Appendix (optional): team member resumes, product photos, copies of legal documents
Different Types of Business Plans
- Startup Business Plans: Built for early-stage entrepreneurs
- Business Growth Plans: For expanding operations or opening new locations
- Lean Business Plans: A faster, lighter format for internal use
- Business Loan-Ready Plans: Optimized to meet lender expectations
When & How to Update Your Business Plan
- Annual reviews and milestone tracking to grow smarter and stay profitable
- Pivoting based on new market data, industry research or customer needs
- Tools to adjust your financial projections or goals
Real Success Story: Building a Business Plan with Purpose – How Wing Suite Took Flight
Kartisha Henry, founder of Wing Suite in Atlanta, turned her vision into a thriving restaurant by grounding her growth in a clear and strategic business plan. Drawing from her Army background and logistics experience, she conducted extensive research, developed a strong brand, and used insights from programs like AOF’s Restaurant Accelerator with DoorDash to refine her plan. Her intentional approach helped her navigate industry challenges, expand to a second location, and build a loyal team and customer base. Kartisha’s journey shows how a solid business plan – rooted in preparation, purpose, and adaptability – can turn a passion into a scalable, community-driven success.
Pro Tips from AOF Business Advisors
AOF Advisor Tip: Start simple. You don’t need a 40-page business plan – just something clear enough to guide your next steps.
AOF Advisor Tip: Revisit your business plan quarterly. It should be a living document, not a one-time task.
AOF Advisor Tip: Tie your business goals to real numbers – revenue, customers, or hours saved.
Common Business Planning Mistakes to Avoid
Not Writing It Down
Thinking through your plan is good – writing it down is better. A written plan helps clarify your ideas and make your vision real.
Making It Too Complicated
Don’t get stuck trying to be perfect. Start with a simple, clear plan you can build on.
Skipping the Financials
Even a rough budget can help you make better decisions and spot problems before they start.
Using a Generic Template Without Customizing It
Your business is unique. Make sure your plan reflects your voice, your goals, and your market.
Business Plan FAQs
What’s the difference between a business plan and a pitch deck?
A pitch deck is a visual summary; a business plan is a full document detailing operations, market, and financials.
Can I write a business plan without a lot of data?
Yes – start with what you know and use estimates. Your plan will grow over time.
Do I need a business plan to get a loan?
While some business lenders may require one, AOF does not!
Who can help me with my business plan?
Register for group business coaching sessions where you can learn the fundamentals of starting your own business.
Ready to Write a Plan That Moves Your Business Forward?
Accion Opportunity Fund makes it easy to start, update, or refine your business plan – with expert advice every step of the way.
Why Choose AOF for Business Planning Support?
Nonprofit Mission – Built for Real Business Owners
We don’t serve shareholders – we serve entrepreneurs. As a nonprofit, every resource we provide is designed to create impact, not profit. Our business planning tools reflect the real challenges business owners face – not just what looks good in a pitch deck.
Human Support – Free Business Advising
Business planning can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our advisors provide simple, actionable guidance to help you clarify your goals, sharpen your plan, and get ready to grow – at no cost.
Accessible Tools – Free, Flexible & Proven
No subscriptions. No paywalls. Just open access to the best small business planning resources on the web – available when you need them, and designed to grow with you.
Powered by 30 Years of Business Planning + Lending Experience
100% of our planning tools are free, practical, and proven
$1 billion+ deployed in nearly 35,000 loans
4.5M business owners served through our free resource library
35,000+ entrepreneurs supported through coaching and events
67% of business owners with lower credit scores improve their credit to a decent or good level by the time they finish paying off their loan
