Includes bibliographical references and index.

This essential step-by-step guide for anyone launching or expanding a successful business has been used by over a million entrepreneurs. It includes expert help, worksheets to jumpstart the process, a sample business plan, tips on impressing funders, winning tips for competitions, and more. Used in the top business schools throughout the nation, the book covers every aspect of a successful business plan, from the components of the actual plan, to making the plan compelling, to presentation methods, to looking for money, and much more.

Section I. Starting the process : The successful business -- Getting your plan started -- Making your plan compelling -- Section II. Business plan components : The executive summary -- Company description -- Industry analysis & trends -- Target market -- The competition -- Strategic position & risk assessment -- Marketing plan & sales strategy -- Operations -- Technology plan -- Management & organization -- Social responsibility & sustainability -- Development, milestones & exit plan -- The financials -- The plan's appendix -- Section III. Putting the plan to work : Preparing, presenting & sending out your plan -- Looking for money -- Using your plan for classes & competitions -- Internal planning for existing businesses & corporations -- Time-saving tips -- Section IV. References & resources : Outline of a business plan -- Business terms glossary -- Funding sources -- Research sources -- Entrepreneurs' sources.

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