What is a business plan?

A business plan describes what your business will do, who it serves, how it makes money, and what you need to get started. It does not have to be a 40-page document—a clear, honest plan you can follow is what matters.

Good plans usually cover your offer, target customers, pricing, startup costs, and how you will find your first customers. Lenders and grant programs may ask for more detail; your day-to-day plan can stay simpler.