Business Plan: General Format – You can do this project individually or up to teams of two – however, if you do this in teams of two, I would expect a 10 page report;. 1. The paper must be typed 2. Use headings within the report when appropriate. 3. A table of contents page is necessary. 4. The paper should be between 5-7 pages in length. 5. Plan the paper carefully so as to develop an organized and non-redundant report. 6. Please cite your sources using MLA or APA Format – (the Writing/> Center/>/> can offer assistance if you do not know how to do this). Some other helpful sites include – http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/560/01/, http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/557/01/, http://www.cuyamaca.edu/tpagaard/EnglDept/Resources.htm Tentative Outline of the Paper: 1. Each student is expected to select an organization (this can be a new(your own business that you own now or hope to run in the future) or preexisting business such as Walmart) and complete the following activities: 2. Executive Summary. The paper must begin with a one page summary that orients the reader as to the contents as well as to the major sections of the report. The summary, by itself, must provide enough information about the project so that the reader can judge simply by reading this portion if he or she wants to read further. 3. Introduction. This first segment should present a brief history of the organization and its local operations. Be brief and succinct, but make sure that the reader can obtain a perspective of the organization. 4. Body. Suggested headings for your business plan include the following, whatever you can find: 1. FORM OF BUSINESS OWNERSHIP (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation) 2. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE (ownership and management) 3. LICENSES NEEDED – such as contractors license, etc. 4. MARKETING PLAN – using the 4 P’s of marketing 5. PRODUCT/SERVICE PLAN – What products/services being offered the first year. 6. ADVERTISING – What form of advertising will you use the first year? 7. OPERATION PLAN – location, will you make or buy your product. 8. SWOT ANALYSIS – Determine the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that pertain to your business. 9. FINANCIAL PLAN – Make an income statement for the first year (please be realistic). Also include how you will acquire funding. 5. Conclusion. In conclusion, please explain why or why not you think your business will be a viable business opportunity. What solutions could you recommend? What timelines would you offer the company? Please justify your reasoning.
