Simple Business Plan Template for Small Business

This simple business plan template gives you a clear structure for outlining your business idea, offer, customers and next steps. It is designed for small business owners who want a plan that is practical and easy to follow.

What is a simple business plan?

A simple business plan is a shorter format that captures the essentials. What you sell, who you sell to, how you deliver it, how you market it and what you need to do next. It is a strong starting point before expanding into a full plan.

How to use this template

  • Start with your offer and who it is for
  • Write 3 to 5 key goals for the next 90 days
  • List the projects required to hit those goals
  • Add basic money assumptions, expected income and key costs
  • Review weekly and keep it updated as you learn

What to include

  • Business overview and goals
  • Offer or services and pricing approach
  • Target customer and problem solved
  • Simple marketing plan and channels
  • Costs, cash flow and basic projections

Examples and guidance

If you want to see how other small business plans are structured, use these examples as a reference. View small business plan examples.

Related templates and tools

Tip: start simple, then deepen the plan. A clear structure is more useful than a long document that never gets updated.

FAQ

What is a simple business plan?

A simple business plan is a shorter planning format that outlines the essentials, including what you sell, who you sell to, how you deliver, how you market, and your next steps.

What should I include in a simple business plan?

Include a business overview, your offer and pricing, target customer, basic marketing plan, key goals for the next 90 days, and a simple view of costs and cash flow.

Should I use a business model canvas or a simple business plan first?

Many small businesses start with a business model canvas for a one page overview, then expand into a simple business plan for goals and follow through. Related page: Business Model Canvas Template.

Where can I find small business plan examples?

You can use small business plan examples as a reference for structure and clarity. Related page: Small Business Plan Examples.

What finance templates should I use alongside a business plan?

Most small businesses benefit from a cash flow template, a business budget template and basic financial projections. Related pages: Cash Flow Template, Business Budget Template, Financial Projections Template.