Business Plan Example??

[capitoljayhawk]

I searched DGrin, but didn't see a business-plan thread that was readily apparent.

Several of us who have extensive photography experience (albeit with need of more training) are considering joining together to start a small photography sideline. I would like to really figure out our market first, so I'd like to write a business plan.

Does anyone have a business plan they'd be willing to share? In the alternative, do you have a site or a book that really explains how to complete a business plan in the photography context?

Many thanks in advance.

[Angelo]

I don't recall a thread dealing specifically with business plans. Many books and software programs are available complete with follow-along forms. Have you checked Amazon?

Generally I would submit to you that one usually figures out their market prior to writing a plan, not the other way around. And it sounds like you're referring to a cooperative business model which is more comprehensive and complicated and potentially more difficult.

Good luck :thumb

[catspaw]

I could, but I agree with the above -- business plans are rather personal and specific to each case. Especially for a co-op.

An example of an individual business plan for a niche market in Utah won't do you an ounce of good, really! There are both websites as well as books that can work with you on what should be in such a plan. If you are looking to get funding from a bank for the co-op, then also work with THEM to see what they expect to see in the plan. I know my plan won't pass muster with a bank, but I'm not seeking a loan or funding like that. But it will pass muster with the IRS for a legit business.

[Angelo]

I could, but I agree with the above -- business plans are rather personal and specific to each case. Especially for a co-op.

An example of an individual business plan for a niche market in Utah won't do you an ounce of good, really! There are both websites as well as books that can work with you on what should be in such a plan. If you are looking to get funding from a bank for the co-op, then also work with THEM to see what they expect to see in the plan. I know my plan won't pass muster with a bank, but I'm not seeking a loan or funding like that. But it will pass muster with the IRS for a legit business.


:thumb


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[capitoljayhawk]

:thumb


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Thanks for the responses. I'm not really looking to take anyone's market analysis. I am sort of looking for format and what kind of ideas I should be including/thinking about.

I have never written a business plan of any sort.

[ChatKat]

In my business (not the photography one) I speak and coach about doing business plans. I spent 20 years as a banker and for a small business it is very rare that we asked for submission of a plan to take out a loan. The exception being an SBA loan where you would put real estate up for collateral. ALmost all credit today is based on assets and with no business experience in today's climate it's unlikely unless you have some hefty personal assets and high FICO Scores that you are going to get funding for a start up venture.

All that said, a business plan is a great road map to get you to where you want to be. It should have a mission statement about your business, a bio of the managers, key personnel and their experience, a marketing plan with very specific goals and targets and how the plan will be implemented. A section on your operations as well. Budgets and projections and the research on your target market. All of this should be tailored to 3 months, 6 months, one year, third year and fifth you and it should be a work in progress constantly updated and reviewed.

[Angelo]

Thanks for the responses. I'm not really looking to take anyone's market analysis. I am sort of looking for format and what kind of ideas I should be including/thinking about.

I have never written a business plan of any sort.

did you read post #2 above?