Business Plan Appendix

Part 9: The Appendix

The appendix section should be provided to readers on an as-needed basis. In other words, it should not be included with the main body of your business plan. Your business plan is your communication tool. As such, it will be seen by a lot of people. Some of the information in the business section you will not want everyone to see. However, specific individuals (such as creditors) may want access to this information in order to make lending decisions. Therefore, it is important to have the appendix within easy reach.

The appendix would include:

• credit history (personal & business)
• resumes of key managers
• product pictures
• letters of reference
• details of market studies
• relevant magazine articles or book references
• licenses, permits, or patents
• legal documents
• copies of leases
• building permits
• contracts
• list of business consultants, including attorney and accountant

Any copies of your business plan should be controlled. Keep a distribution record of who has a copy of your plan. This will allow you to update and maintain your business plan on an as-needed basis. Remember, too, that you should include a private placement disclaimer with your business plan if you plan to use it to raise capital.

(NAWBO, St. Louis, MO, and Women's Business Institute, Fargo, ND)

Elements of a Good Business Plan

• Executive Summary
• Market Analysis
• Company Description
• Organization and Management
• Marketing and Sales Management
• Service or product Line
• Funding Request
• Financials
• Appendix