1. Executive Summary

This is your business at a glance. Summarize your business, the services you offer, and your goals. Think of it as your short, clear, and focused elevator pitch.

Example:

• Business Name: [Your Business Name]

• Vision: What you aim to achieve (e.g., “To become the go-to plumber in [area]”).

2. Business Objectives

Write down clear, measurable goals for your business. These should be specific targets to keep you focused and motivated.

Example:

• Gain 20 clients in the first three months.

• Hit a revenue target of £8,000/month within the first year.

3. Market Analysis

Understand your customers, your competitors, and the trends in your industry.

What to Include:

• Who are your ideal customers?

• What services are in demand in your area?

• What do competitors do well, and where can you stand out?

4. Services Offered

List what your business will provide. Be clear and specific to attract the right clients.

Example:

• Emergency plumbing repairs.

• Heating system installation and maintenance.

• Property maintenance for landlords.

5. Marketing and Sales Strategy

Detail how you’ll find customers and grow your business.

Tips:

• Build an online presence with a website and social media.

• Use local advertising, like flyers or Google Ads.

• Focus on great customer service to encourage referrals.

6. Operations Plan

Explain how you’ll run your business day-to-day.

What to Include:

• Tools and equipment you need.

• Scheduling systems to manage bookings.

• A plan for tracking invoices and payments.

7. Financial Plan

Work out how much money you’ll need to start and how you’ll make it back.

Example:

• Start-up costs (tools, van, insurance, website).

• Revenue streams (hourly rates, flat fees, maintenance contracts).

• Fixed costs (fuel, marketing, insurance).

8. Team Structure

If you’re starting solo or planning to hire, explain how the team will grow.

Example:

• Phase 1: Start as a one-person operation.

• Phase 2: Hire an apprentice within six months.

9. Risk Management

Think about potential challenges and how you’ll handle them.

Tips:

• Stay up to date with industry changes and regulations.

• Focus on excellent service to build a strong reputation.

• Use savings or a small loan to cover unexpected costs.

10. Milestones and Timeline

Break down what you want to achieve and by when.

Example:

• Month 1: Launch website and start marketing.

• Month 3: Secure 10 regular clients.

• Year 1: Achieve monthly revenue target and hire additional staff.