Write a Business Plan

Writing a business plan is one of the first and most important steps in starting a new business. It determines how you structure and run your company and is essential in the financing process. That's why the Governor's Office of Small Business Assistance has compiled a list of resources and guides to help aspiring entrepreneurs kickstart the business planning process.

• Watch this helpful FAQ video: How important is a business plan?
• This Governor's Small Business Webinar playback offers expert advice on crafting a business plan and answers frequently asked questions.
• The Governor's Small Business Handbook offers a helpful guide and topics to consider when writing a business plan (starting on page 6).
• The U.S. Small Business Administration offers online templates for creating a business plan and guidance on selecting a plan format.
• SCORE offers a step-by-step business plan template and one-on-one assistance from experienced mentors to help review and refine your plan. 
• Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) offer small business owners and entrepreneurs free face-to-face business consulting and at-cost training on a variety of topics. Whether you need help putting together a business plan, finding financing, exploring new markets, increasing sales, or improving productivity and profitability, your local SBDC assistance is tailored to your needs.

For next steps, reference our Start a Business in Texas webpage to continue crafting your small business success story in the Lone Star State. For questions, contact our Small Business Assistance team. You may also sign up to receive small business updates directly to your inbox.