Business Plan Table of Contents Template
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4 Examples of Business Plan Table of Contents
Written by Peter Keszegh
When crafting a lengthy business plan, it’s best to create a table of contents that can serve as the backbone for your business blueprint. This will allow you to guide readers and potential investors from beginning to end, allowing them to find what exactly they need to know about your business proposal in a convenient way.
In this article, we’ll give you some tips on how to structure your business plan table of contents and provide you with a few examples to help you get started.
What’s a business plan table of contents?
A business plan table of contents is an outline of all the relevant sections listed in your business plan. It’s more than just a simple list; it’s also the first impression you’ll be giving to potential investors , which is why it’s important to make sure your table of contents is well-written and detailed from the get-go.
The business plan table of contents will immediately show what your business is all about, and will give readers an overview of relevant subsections and other aspects of your proposal.
A roadmap to your business strategy
Your business plan table of contents is an overview of all the relevant parts of your overall business strategy . This will make it easier for readers and potential investors to identify the key elements to how you plan to run your business.
Saves time for busy readers
In today’s busy world, time is money. Don’t waste the time of potential investors by giving them a business plan that’s difficult to get through. A good business plan table of contents should save readers time and provide them a detailed outline of your business proposal from the start.
Reflects your attention to detail
If you put a lot of thought into making your business plan table of contents detailed, that’s a testament to how meticulous you are as an entrepreneur and how well you handle business strategies and finances. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone!
Enhances readability and professionalism
If you have a business plan table of contents that’s easy to read and concisely written, that shows potential investors that you know your business plan inside and out , and understand your vision well enough to write it all down in simple terms. It’s a good look for professionalism!
Ultimately, a good table of contents all comes down to getting your business vision across in the most effective way possible, and leaving an impact on potential investors. This document should spell out why these investors should believe in your vision for the future.
Sections to include in your business plan
It’s important to make sure you nail down all the important details in your business plan. Here are some sections you should consider including in your own plans:
Executive summary
An executive summary is exactly that – a glimpse into what your business is all about. Here, you should state your business mission statement, what products and services you’re offering, your leadership team and its employees, and where relevant stakeholders can find you.
It’s also important to mention what your business goals are and the financing you’ll need to achieve those objectives.
Company description
This section will provide readers with a more detailed look into your business. Here, you should describe what your business does, the market needs you address, and the impact of your products or services on the existing market.
Emphasize what sets your business apart from others and explicitly mention the competitive advantages you have.This section will be dedicated to a more extensive look into your business.
Market analysis
In this section, you’ll have to show potential investors that you have a deep understanding of your market, competitors, and overall industry. Write about your target market and its demographics and needs , as well as areas for potential growth . You can use case studies and statistics to illustrate your arguments.
Organization and management
Investors need to know your business’ organizational framework , as well as who your team managers and members are. Make sure to provide biographies of relevant team members that include their current duties and responsibilities , as well as how they contribute to larger organizational goals.
Services or products
Let investors know the products you’re selling or the services you’re providing. This section should give them an idea of the life cycles of your products as well as the research and development activities your business is investing in for future products and services.
Marketing and sales
This section should discuss your business strategies in attracting customers and keeping them . Outline your marketing and sales plans and give investors an idea of what your brand messaging and advertising strategies are.
Funding request
If you’ll be needing additional funds from external financing and investments , you should also include this in your business plan. Make sure to mention how much money you’ll be needing and how you’ll be using them , and whether you plan to source them via loans, grants, or other means . Include specific timeframes as well.
Financial projections
A business plan should also include financial forecasts to show potential investors the business’ profitability. Prepare an income statement, cash flow forecasts, and a balance sheet. It’s also good to provide a break-even analysis to determine the period when your business is likely to become profitable.
The appendix is where you should include all supporting documents or materials mentioned earlier on in your business plan. These may include resumes, permits, lease agreements, legal documents, and any other relevant files.
Consider each section of your business plan as a building block that will shape your overall vision, to make it attractive and easy to understand for investors. By working on these sections, you’ll be able to create a well-prepared document that reflects the true potential of your business.
Business plan table of contents examples
A clear and concise business plan table of contents is a great tool that will help entrepreneurs from all kinds of industries.
Here are four examples:
Standard business plan table of contents
You can opt to use a standard structure for your business plan table of contents. This format is good for any industry, and gives your potential investors a simple but powerful look into what your business is all about.
Executive Summary
Business concept and vision
Financial features and requirements
Current business position and major achievements
Company Description
Business formation history and milestones
Location and facilities
Mission statement and core values
Market Analysis
Industry background
Market needs and trends
Target market and customer profile
Organization and Management
Organizational structure chart
Management team bios
Legal and ownership structure
Products or Services
Detailed description of products or services
Development status and R&D activities
Sourcing and fulfillment
Marketing and Sales Strategy
Market penetration and growth strategy
Sales strategy and forecast
Communication channels
Funding Request
Current funding requirements
Future funding requirements over five years
Proposed terms and use of funds
Financial Projections
Income statements and cash flow statements
Balance sheets
Break-even analysis
Resumes of key managers
Legal documents
Any other relevant documents
Tech startup business plan table of contents
If you’re running a tech startup or looking to create an innovative product that will disrupt the market, you may want to tailor your business plan to highlight these. This kind of table of contents will emphasize your startup’s vision, how you plan to develop your products, and your user acquisition strategies.
Startup vision and quick growth plan
Unique value proposition
Company Overview
Founding story
Technology and innovation edge
Market Validation
Proof of concept results
Customer feedback and market demand
Product Roadmap
Current product offerings
Future development pipeline
User Acquisition and Marketing
Digital marketing strategy
Partnership and network growth plans
Operational Plan
Day-to-day operational details
Supplier and partner relationships
Management Team
Founders and key team members
Advisory board
Financial Plan
Revenue model and projections
Funding history and future rounds
Technical specifications
Patent details
Any additional supporting information
Service industry business plan table of contents
If you're working in the service industry, make sure your business plan table of contents clearly outlines your daily operations and workflows, your customer engagement strategies, and quality control measures.
Service offerings and key benefits
Summary of financial objectives
Business Description
Background and development
Service delivery process
Market Analysis and Strategy
Competitive landscape
Pricing and sales strategy
Customer Engagement
Customer service approach
Loyalty and retention programs
Operational Workflow
Service fulfillment logistics
Quality control measures
Management and Staffing
Organizational chart
Hiring and training plans
Financial Overview
Cost structure and profitability analysis
Funding requirements and strategy
Client testimonials
Key contracts and agreements
Retail business plan table of contents
If you’re working in retail, it’s ideal to highlight your strategies for inventory management , customer relations, and sales. This will give potential investors a clear look into how you plan to run your retail business.
Overview of business concept
Financial features
Current market position
History and vision
Unique value proposition in the retail industry
Detailed examination of target market
Customer demographics
Overview of competitive landscape
Product Line and Services
Description of products
Inventory sourcing strategies
Additional services offered
Marketing Strategy
Advertising strategies
Customer loyalty programs
Operations Plan
Daily operations
Location details
Supplier agreements
Management and Organization
Structure of the business
Profiles of management team
Employee roles
Sales Strategy
Sales forecast
Pricing strategy
Sales channels (in-store and online)
Detailed financial projections including profit and loss
Cash flow statement
Resumes of key staff
Detailed market research
Letters of intent from suppliers
All in all, it’s good to make sure your business plan table of contents lays out all the important details your investors need to know, depending on what industry you’re in. Make sure your table of contents has everything others need to know about your business, and that it’s complete and easy to understand.
Final thoughts: Business plan table of contents
When you’re creating a detailed and well-structured business plan table of contents, you’re a step closer to realizing your business ambitions. Remember that your business plan is what’ll give you a strong case and make you look good to investors, so it’s ideal that you promote your vision in the best way possible.
Once you’ve created a solid business plan, you can ensure that you’ll be on your way to career development, business growth, and meaningful success.
About the author
Peter Keszegh
Peter K. is an experienced digital marketer with a decade of expertise in driving business growth through innovative strategies. His data-driven approach and deep understanding of SEO, PPC, social media, and content marketing have propelled brands to new heights. With a client-centric mindset, Peter builds strong relationships and aligns strategies with business goals. A sought-after thought leader and speaker, his insights have helped professionals navigate the digital landscape. Trust Peter to elevate your brand and achieve success in the digital era.