By Liz Kudwa
A: Writing a business plan is a very important part of the planning process to get a business up and running. A business plan is essential if you are applying for funding from a financial institution and even if you aren’t, a business plan is still a very good idea. It provides a road map for you to follow so you can stay on track. We have several books that can help you, many of which offer templates and suggestions for writing the various sections.
o Bankable Business Plans By Edward G. Rogoff
o The Entrepreneur’s Guide To Writing Business Plans And Proposals By K. Dennis Chambers
o The Complete Book Of Business Plans: Simple Steps To Writing Powerful Business Plans By Joseph A. Covello
o Business Plans For Dummies By Paul Tiffany And Steven D. Peterson
o Business Plans Made Easy By David H. Bangs Jr.
o The Complete Idiot’s Guide To Business Plans By Gwen Moran And Sue Johnson
The Capital Area District Library is also offering a variety of classes for small business owners and entrepreneurs this fall to help get you started with your business plan.
Business Start-Up Basics. Interested in starting a business? Need more information on what to do or where to start? This orientation will take you through the start up process and answer your questions!
Thursday, Sept. 18, 6:00 pm, Holt-Delhi Library
Taught by a consultant from the Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center (MI-SBTDC). Registration required by calling the MI-SBTDC office at (517) 483-1921
Are You An Entrepreneur?
Does your personality shape whether you are a successful entrepreneur? Some say yes. Join our Business Librarian and a representative from Option 1 Credit Union to learn about what these traits are and whether you possess them!
Thursday, Oct. 2, 6:00 pm, Downtown Lansing
Seating limited. Registration required by contacting the Business Librarian at 517-367-6301.
Writing a Business Plan
What is the value of a business plan? Ultimately, thousands of dollars in the bank! Learn how to create and use your business plan to build a successful business. Learn to set your objectives and priorities, gather and analyze necessary marketing and cost information, and integrate the financials into your business plan.
Part I: Tuesday, Oct. 7, 5:30-7:30 pm
Part II: Tuesday, Oct. 21, 5:30-7:30 pm
Both sessions at the Mason Library. Registration required by calling the Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center at (517) 483-1921.
Elizabeth Kudwa is the Business Reference Librarian at the Capital Area District Library located at 401 S. Capitol Avenue in Lansing, MI. Contact her at 517-367-6301 or by e-mail at kudwae@cadl.org.
