dti south africa business plan template

• Starting a Business
• Growing a Business
• Small Business Guide
• Business News
• Science & Technology
• Money & Finance
• For Subscribers
• Write for Entrepreneur
• Entrepreneur Store
• United States
• Asia Pacific
• Middle East
• South Africa

Copyright © 2024 Entrepreneur Media, LLC All rights reserved. Entrepreneur® and its related marks are registered trademarks of Entrepreneur Media LLC

A Free Business Plan Example to Launch Your South African Business This free Business Plan example provides you with a sample business plan as well as guidance on how to write a business plan and important sections to include in your plan.

By Catherine Bristow Scott May 28, 2019

You're reading Entrepreneur South Africa, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media.

It pays to plan.

Research conducted by Harvard Business Review found that "entrepreneurs who write formal plans are 16% more likely to achieve viability than the otherwise identical non-planning entrepreneurs."

Simply put, writing a business plan could make the difference between business success and failure – which is why planning now could pay dividends as your business gets off the ground.

But where do you start when writing a business plan? In this comprehensive business plan example, we provide you with what to include in your business plan and a sample business plan to help you to create a compelling plan for your start-up.

1. Executive Summary

If you have seven seconds to make a strong first impression in person, an Executive Summary will be the make-or-break section of your business plan – so make this section count.

As a brief outline of your company's purpose and goals, the Executive Summary should generally take up 1 to 2 pages of your business plan. Some key components to include in your business plan are:

• A company description
• A brief summary of your products or services
• The company objectives
• A short but thorough overview of the market
• A justification for viability, particularly "why now?"
• A snapshot of your business's growth potential
• A short description of the organisation team
• Your marketing plan
• Financial projections

Importantly, your Executive Summary must clearly depict the Problem, the Solution, and carry a sense of timeliness – why now should your business be considered as the solution to solve this problem.

NOTE: The following Business Plan Example is based on a fictional company. Figures will not reflect the exact financials of a similar company.

Example of a Business Plan Executive Summary

Snug Sneakers is a sneaker shoe range based in Cape Town that currently focuses exclusively on selling locally produced men's and women's custom sneakers.

The business was founded by David Smith and Stewart Bruce, who have both been working within the retail industry for over 20 years, David Smith, a serial entrepreneur has also founded successful brands – Creative Caps and women's cycling brand Pedal Power.

The brand is currently selling online, however has also recently diversified to selling in independent shoe shops.

The company is projecting to sell R2 million in year 1 and R8 million in three years' time. Additionally, there are expansion plans within year 2 to set up distribution networks in Johannesburg, and Durban in the early part of year 3.

Both David and Stewart are social entrepreneurs at heart and believe in providing sustainable jobs for impoverished communities.

As such, the company has started a recycling and training academy in Khayelitsha, where consumers can return old sneakers that are then repaired by Khayelitsha residents and donated to those in need of shoes. This also provides learners within the academy with shoe-making and recycling trade skills.

Industry research has shown that, on average SA consumers own 4 pairs of sneakers, with 4 in 4 consumers indicating that shoe fit and sizes vary across brands.

3 in 4 consumers indicated that their number one concern when purchasing is having to "settle' for the best fitting shoe, despite the fit not being 100% correct.

Based on these and additional industry research statistics, the company's sneaker products are driven to provide the best shoe fit, with the tagline of "shoes that fit so good, you'll never go barefoot again.'

The main competition to Snug Sneakers comes from 1 local brand, SuperStars, and 2 overseas brands Sassy Sneakers and Rock Your Sneakers.

Although SuperStars supports sustainable use of local manufacturers, the competitor does not provide custom fit sneakers. Sassy Sneakers and Rock Your Sneakers both offer custom fit sneakers, both brands are manufactured in China and do not promote sustainable, social conscious value propositions.

The primary means of marketing will mainly be focused on digital marketing, through evidence-based approaches, including search engine optimisation, Google Ads, Facebook Advertising as well as utilising social media channels that have proven very popular for the company, including Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.

The locally sourced raw materials, which include cotton, rubber and leather, will be supplied from a sustainable cotton mill and tannery in the Limpopo Province.

Funding for the company was derived through the 2 founders, as well as private investment.

2. Business Overview and Objectives

Creating an overview of your business when you are already established makes it easier, but it may be a little harder when you're either just starting out or haven't even kicked off your operations yet.

When you're just starting out, think about your products and services as your starting point.

• What will you be providing your market with?
• How will you be sourcing/ producing these items?
• What do you need to have in place before you can start selling your products?
• Who will be distributing/ manufacturing your products?
• Importantly, who will your target market or customer be?

In our example business plan, Snug Sneakers serves both retail and online customers, although the bulk of the business is through their online clientele.

This means that Snug Sneakers will need a secure e-commerce platform and a website that has carefully considered the user journey when buying custom sneakers.

The company will also need employees to assist with technical challenges, customer support, and warehouse staff for the packing and distribution of their products.

Similarly, you would need to consider the following when identifying their business objectives:

• What industry will you operate in?
• Who will be your customer?
• What is the problem that you will be solving?
• How will you solve this problem?
• Where will my business be located?
• What equipment and resources will I need within my business?
• What type of employees do I need?
• How will I differentiate my offering from my competitors?

After answering these questions, you will have a better understanding of what it is that you will be offering and what you need to make it happen. A summary of these points will make up your Business Overview and Objectives for your Business Plan.

Example of a Business Overview and Objectives

Snug Sneakers, based in Cape Town South Africa, is focused on providing sustainable, locally produced custom footwear to South Africa, and internationally through its e-commerce platform and local distributor network.

Founded by entrepreneurs David Smith and Stewart Bruce in December 2017, from Stewart's garage, Snug Sneakers grew exponentially within 1 year from 5 online purchases a month to an average of 200 per month within 12 months.

From the company's rapid growth, it became very clear to the founders that there is a gap in the South African market for locally produced, quality sneakers.

The founders' vision for Snug Sneakers is to become a socially conscious, sustainable brand that supports the South African economy by buying 80% locally produced raw materials.

Additionally, the duo noticed a gap in the market where consumers were looking for custom-fitted shoes and remain loyal to the brand that fit them best. To this end, Snug Sneakers offers a wide range of shoe sizes including quarter and half sizes to ensure that all customers find the right snug fit for their feet.

The overarching philosophy and ethos for the company are:

• "Soul sneakers' that allow customers to purchase sneakers that promote social consciousness.
• "South African sourced' sourcing locally produced raw materials that provide job sustainability.
• Superior sneakers' ensuring that customers still get a high-quality product that outmatches popular brands in workmanship and quality.

Company Status

Snug Sneakers was registered as a PTY (Ltd) on 1 December 2017. The main directors are David Peter Smith and Stewart Owen Bruce. Company shares are held by the founders.

The company currently operates out of rented commercial property in Blackheath, Cape Town.

Company Objectives

Snug Sneakers is currently selling custom sneakers primarily through its online store https://www.snugsneakers.co.za , with market penetration nationally, and highest market penetration in Johannesburg and Cape Town. Sporadic orders have also been received from the USA and the United Kingdom.

The company has also partnered with 3 independent shoe and clothing retailers focused on selling locally-sourced South African apparel.

The company has identified a 2 phased upscaling approach for growing sales and operations:

• Increase online sales by 40% within a 6-month period of 2019
• Increase brick-and-mortar retail partnerships from 2 stores in Cape Town to an additional 4 stores in Johannesburg by year end.
• Increase online sales by 50% by end of year 2020
• Explore opening up a brick-and-mortar store in the Canal Walk Shopping Centre, Cape Town
• Increase brick-and-mortar retail partnerships to include 1 store in Durban.

3. Products and Services

In this section, you will be unpacking your product and services offering, especially your key product differentiation from your competitors. Importantly, in this section you will also need to validate why your product is needed by your customers.

If you have applied for any patents, copyrights, or trademarks, you would also include these in this section.

Products and services that already exist may not need a deep analysis of what they are within your business plan.

However, if you're creating a completely new product or service (if you were the first Uber of the world), carefully detail in this section what your product is about, it's uses and the value it brings to the market so your readers will be able to evaluate the value of your product and services.

Some important aspects to cover include:

• The anticipated timeline to bring your new product to the market.
• What differentiates your product or service from those already available in the market.
• What will your operating costs be and profit margins.
• How will you source/ manufacture your product.
• How will the product be distributed to customers.

Example of Products and Services

Snug Sneakers will provide a line of custom sneakers for both men and women. The main product lines include:

• Casual Range: Everyday sneaker footwear
• Active Range: Active gym range of sneakers
• Fashion Forward Range: Formal but funky range of sneakers

Current pricing of the sneakers as follows:

• Casual Range: R550
• Active Range: R950
• Fashion Forward Range: R850

Competition

There are three main competitors that have been identified within the market. These include:

Local competitor:

1. SuperStars 40% locally made raw materials, with 60% of the raw materials originating from China. The brand however does not provide custom-fit sneakers.

Foreign competitors:

2. Sassy Sneakers are based in Australia, with the product line produced in China. The company offers custom fit sizes, however customers have to pay extra for the custom fit and product quality is low.

3. Rock Your Sneakers is a US based company, with the product line produced in China. The company offers some custom fit sizes, however the sizes are limited and the product is only available to South African's online and with a long lead time to delivery.

Snug Sneakers products have a unique differentiator within the market:

• A greater range of custom fit sizes ranging from ¼ - to half sizes as well as broad and narrow width ranges.
• The company will be the only brand within South Africa to offer 80% locally manufactured sneakers.
• Quality of the products is superior to the current locally-made competitor, due to locally sourced high-quality raw materials.

Future Products

The company has also been looking into introducing a line of sneaker care products to assist customers in increasing the longevity of their purchases.

4. Competitive and Market Analysis

Providing evidence that there is demand for your product or service is one of the most critical components of your business plan. Key to this is understanding your market and your competition within that market.

Embarking on market research requires you to have a deep understanding of what your market is and the opportunities inherent within it. You should be able to define:

• Target Market. The types of customers you will be targeting with your product or service.
• Market Need. If there is demand for your products and services and whether this is increasing or declining.
• Competition. The positioning of your competitors in the market and how you will differentiate your offering from them.
• Barriers to Entry. What will prevent someone else from providing the same offering or better.
• Regulation. Regulations that will be applicable to the industry that your business will be operating in.

Example of a Market Analysis

Target market.

With our initial line of casual, active and fashion forward sneakers, we're looking to target the following consumer segment:

• Age: 16 -36
• Digital Savvy: Researching and shopping online is part of this customer's DNA. The target market is also very active on social media platforms such as Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook.
• On Trend: Fashion forward and looking to illustrate their unique personalities, the target market is always looking for fashion to express their uniqueness.
• Social Consciousness: The target market is proudly South African and are highly conscious of the socio-economic issues and have a keen desire to take part in improving the SA economy, uplifting communities and supporting local initiatives.

Market Need

According to a Global View Research Marketing Report, the global athletic and leisure footwear market size was valued at USD 67.8 billion in 2017. The report found that this value is expected to expand at a CAGR of over 8.0% from 2018 to 2025.

The ever-growing awareness with regards to the health benefits of sports and fitness activities, as well as an expanding retail e-commerce sector globally, including increasing levels of disposable income amongst millennials are estimated to be the key reasons for increasing market growth in this market.

Additionally, the Global Sneaker Market 2018 Industry Trends and Sales report found that although the global brands reported increased profit margins in 2017, these have decreased by 1.5% from 2016.

On the other hand, independent Sneaker retailers have reported a 15% increase in sales, particularly online, in 2017, indicating that consumers are moving away from global brands to pursue lesser known boutique footwear retailers.

• SuperStars is based in Johannesburg and provides sneakers with 40% locally made raw materials, with 60% of the raw materials originating from China. The brand however does not provide custom-fit sneakers.
• Sassy Sneakers are based in Australia, with the product line produced in China. The company offers custom fit sizes, however customers have to pay extra for the custom fit and product quality is low.
• Rock Your Sneakers is a US based company, with the product line produced in China. The company offers some custom fit sizes, however the sizes are limited and the product is only available to South African's online and with a long lead time to delivery. (Repeated above)

5. Marketing/Sales Strategy

You're on the right track when you have established that there's a market for your product and service and you have identified who your target market is quantifiably, but how will your market segments know to look out for or even buy your product and services?

This is where your marketing and sales strategy comes into play.

A well-defined marketing strategy goes beyond simply advertising your product and service – it includes a deeper understanding of how your customers will view your brand, what is the best way to reach your customers, the benefits that your customer will receive from using your service or buying your product.

Your marketing strategy must also include the budget for your marketing and sales efforts, whether you will require sales staff to sell your products and offer post-sales support, as well as how you will measure your marketing and sales efforts to evaluate their effectiveness.

Example of a Marketing Strategy

Marketing plan.

• Search Engine Optimisation : Our website pages will be optimised for search engine rankings, with the objective to rank within the top 3 search positions for keywords "custom sneakers", "custom size sneakers" and "custom made sneakers".
• Paid Search : Snug Sneakers will be investing in Google Ads and Facebook Advertising and well as Programmatic Advertising to increase landing page conversion rates.
• Social Media : We will be establishing a targeted social media strategy to increase followers across the social media platforms that have shown the highest engagement with the target market. High frequency posts will be created target at highest engagement times to increase engagement and brand awareness.
• Business Network : We will partner with independent apparel and footwear retailers to drive link building and link sharing both on website and on social media.

Customer Value Proposition and Value Differentiator

Although there is one locally produced sneaker competitor within the market, the founders believe that the customer value proposition being brought to the market is a unique offering and therefore a strong differentiator within the market.

The founders are cognisant that without this differentiator, the only differentiator will be price, which will ultimately have a negative impact on profit margins.

As a unique differentiator and value proposition, Snug Sneakers provides customers with Sneakers with South African Sole, leveraging the Proudly South African heritage and support for local initiatives to help grow South Africa's job economy and promote community upskilling and learnership programmes.

Additionally, Snug Sneakers will ensure that the quality of the products far outweighs those of global brands manufacturing in China. The most important differentiator, however is the ability to custom size shoes to each individual's unique size requirements.

6. Staffing and Operations

Strategy is irrelevant without execution – which is where your Operations Plan comes into play in your business plan. How will you serve your customers, while keeping your operating costs low enough to make sufficient profitability?

Your Operations Plan will detail how you will manufacture, staff, fulfil and stock your products, including your day-to-day operational requirements. Ultimately, this section describes how you will run your business.

Some questions to answer in this section include:

• Where will your operations be based?
• What is your management structure?
• What are your staffing requirements?
• What equipment, facilities and supplies will you need?
• How will you establish your suppliers?
• What will be the operational changes required should your company grow?
• What will your production methods entail?
• How will you service/ deliver goods to customers?
• What regulatory requirements must be in place? (Licences, permits etc.)
• How will you manage your inventory levels?

Example of Staffing and Operations

Management team.

David Smith is a serial entrepreneur who founded successful and well-known brands Creative Caps and women's cycling apparel Pedal Power.

David graduated from Stellenbosch University with a B Comm in Economics and went on to study an MBA at GIBS Business School. David heads up Snug Sneakers as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Stewart Bruce has worked in the retail industry as a Senior Designer for well-known retail brands, including Puma and Sketchers.

With over 20 years' experience in designing active and casual footwear, as well as sourcing and overseeing materials for the product range, Stewart brings excellent experience to the management mix as Chief Design Officer.

7. Financial Projections

The bottom line counts the most when it comes to writing your business plan.

Without the numbers to prove whether your business will be profitable or not, potential investors or lenders will have a difficult time objectively deciding if your business will be a sound investment.

Aside from persuading potential investors, crucially, the numbers that you have crunched will also indicate whether you have a viable business.

There are five basic reports or cash projections to include in your business plan:

• Income Statement
• Balance Sheet
• Cash Flow Statement
• Operating Budget
• Break-Even Analysis

It's important to come up with credible financial projections for your business to illustrate that it is feasible.

One way to tackle this section is to break down the figures into various components, such as by sales channel or target market segment.

At this stage, you won't be able to supply exact figures, because you're still estimating your future financials, but by breaking down your guesses into components you will be able to determine a more realistic figure for each component, rather than hazarding guesses as a whole.

The business plan should be an ongoing, living document that can be used as your guide for running your business. It requires continuous adjustment as your business changes and grows.

Entrepreneur Staff

Sales Enablement - Content Division Manager

Catherine Bristow Scott is the Content Division Manager for Entrepreneur South Africa. With specialist expertise in developing SEO content, effective sales enablement content to drive lead generation, as well as digital strategy, Catherine brings an in-depth understanding of developing both written and video content to assist businesses in remaining competitive and growing their revenue.

Most Popular Red Arrow

10 online side hustles proven to boost your bank account.

Even the busiest schedules can accommodate finding a precious few hours to create a profitable online venture — something that many are already mastering.

Vusi Thembekwayo's 7 Rules of Pitching

If you want to build an investable business and land funding, you need to understand the landscape. Vusi Thembekwayo unpacks how smart businesses attract investors.

26 Of The Richest People in South Africa

Here are 26 of South Africa's richest people, but how did they achieve this level of wealth? Find out here.

This Former Starbucks Employee Started a Side Hustle That's Making More Than $70,000 a Month — and He's Not Done Yet

When Tom Saar moved to New York City, he spotted a lucrative business opportunity.

7 Steps To Starting A Transport And Logistics Business

Logistics is a big game both locally and internationally, because everything we use daily has been shipped and delivered across various destinations before it's sold and put to use. This is where you can cash in.

How Portia Mngomezulu Launched Her Cosmetics Business With No Money

A great product range backed by an ambitious vision and a determination to get the basics right is helping Portia Mngomezulu to conquer the highly competitive beauty industry

Successfully copied link

Essential Components of a Successful DTI Application for a Business Visa

Table of Contents

Introduction

Submitting a successful Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) application for a business visa usually requires one to be well-prepared and provide a comprehensive list of items for submission.

The specific requirements and components that make up a South African DTI application will be mentioned throughout this article.

Understanding the DTI Application Requirements

In order to submit a business visa application, there are two things you need to make sure you have.

The first is funding. Your business needs to insert foreign direct investment equal to ZAR 5 million. For certain business sectors, you can apply for a preliminary waiver , which will approve a lower amount of investment required.

Secondly, your business must boast a 60% local workforce, i.e. 60% of your labour force must be South African.

The DTI does not want to receive Business Plans but has created their own template which requires the applicant to fill out information regarding the business, all in all very much in line with the information you would usually put into a Business Plan.

Recommended: Personal Details and Busi

Ness description.

A comprehensive business plan is incredibly important in day-to-day business proceedings. While this is not complusory or even required , you need to effectively convince both the DTI and the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) that your business’s ideas are sound, feasible, and within the best interests of South Africa.

There are a few more things you should consider incorporating into your business plan that will work well in your favour, that include :

• A business description outlining the nature of the business, its growth potential and market placement, etc.
• A description of the business operations including infrastructure, expansions, etc.
• A marketing and sales strategy, and
• The financial statements for your business.

Applicant’s Expertise and Qualifications

An applicant’s expertise and qualifications play a crucial role in the success of a DTI application. The South African business visa is designed to attract professionals with the necessary skills, expertise, and investments that would contribute well to the country’s economic development.

You must not necessarily have relevant experience in the field of business you intend to pursue, but your experience should convince the DTI that you are able to successfully run a business in South Africa, and showcase your ability to contribute to South Africa’s economy.

Ensuring also that you have the relevant educational background and/or specialised training will greatly assist you with your application.

And finally, if you can showcase the ability of either you or your business to provide skills transfer or training for South African citizens, you will prosper.

Services, Market, and Competitive Advantage

When working on your application , it’s important to keep a record of any research you have done into the market you seek to enter. Provide a comprehensive overview of the services you intend to offer, as well as your competitive advantage and the viability of your business venture. This shows a level of thought put into your application that will stand you in good stead with the DTI and DHA .

Your business will aim to provide services or product/s to the country. You need to ensure that you have a clearly defined list of the nature of these services or product/s, their benefits, and how they meet the needs of your target market.

You will also have to explain your target market, as well as the demand you’ve noticed for your specific services or product/s. Having market research to support these claims will work wildly in your favour. This market analysis will showcase your understanding of the South African business environment and highlight any opportunities and challenges that your business can address.

Finally, you need to emphasise what sets apart your business from your competitors in South Africa. Unique solutions, innovative ideas, cost-effective plans, superior customer service, and all other possible advantages that you should outline in your business plan.

Organisational Structure and Financial Projections

Providing proof of your business’s viability and sustainability is incredibly important to the DTI . The authorities need to be instilled with confidence in your ability to establish and operate a successful business in South Africa.

Part of this comes from providing an organisational structure, the other comes from suitable financial projections.

An organisational structure should show how many South African or PR holders you want to employ and in which positions. This can. either be shown with a organisational chart or by listing the proposed positions

Your financial projections are also important, as without this the DTI has no way of knowing whether your business can sustain itself in the South African economy. To break down your financial projections, you need to ensure you have suitable financial statements /projections, such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements for your (existing or proposed) business. These documents help to show the financial feasibility of your business.

You also need contingency plans. You need to be able to show that you’ve addressed all the potential risks and challenges and explain to the relevant authorities just how you plan on mitigating these risks.

Contribution to National Interest and Feasibility

One last consideration for your DTI application is whether your business can feasibly contribute to the national interest. South Africa’s immigration authorities are always on the lookout for business ventures that can positively impact the country’s economy, create employment opportunities, and contribute to sustainable growth.

Within your business visa application, you will have to present these aspects to the DTI.

There are several factors that contribute to a business’s contribution to the national interest.

Firstly, your business needs to present South African citizens or Permanent Residence holders with job opportunities, and sustainable ones at that. If your business is benefitting the local workforce with transferable skills and training programs then highlight the programs that will implement them. This also refers to any technological and innovation transfers that will benefit local industries.

Your business also needs to articulate how its activities align with South Africa’s economic priorities and growth objectives, whilst also showcasing any investments you plan to make in South Africa. Your financial value needs to be emphasised and cannot be understated.

Your business’s feasibility comes not just from financial statements and analysis, but from compliance policies, and your awareness and commitment to adhere to South Africa’s many laws and regulations.

Other Considerations and Additional Information

Make sure that all documents you feel are relevant to supporting the claims you make on your business are concise and accurate, and travel alongside your application.

Your business must contribute to the South African economy, and work well within the business sector.

Presenting a well-researched, feasible, and compelling argument alongside your business plan will successfully highlight your business’s positive impact on South Africa’s interests, as long as you’ve backed up your claims with concrete evidence and relevant recommendations from clients or partners.

Conclusion and Best Practices

Before you submit your documents to the DHA or the DTI, you must ensure that your business falls within the national interest category. If you do not have available or have not already invested ZAR 5 million, applying for a reduction of this amount through the DHA is essential. This waiver application would only take place after you have received a positive DTI application.

Seeing as you will have to deal with more than one government department, work with a six-month processing timeline to make sure before you submit, that you have plenty of time to sift through your application and submit the right information.

Written by Simon Carletti , PR and Creative Supervisor

Related Posts

Navigating kenya’s immigration system: recent updates.

The Directorate of Immigration Services has temporarily paused all immigration application processing and issuance till end of May.

Immigration News from Africa: March/April 2024

This month, IBN Immigration Solutions brings you the latest immigration news and updates from South Africa and Kenya.

Letter from the CEO: March/April 2024

With the election heating up, and a new financial year, the Department of Home Affairs have released numerous immigration changes.

Business Plan Template

Create an accurate business plan with Hola Business’ business plan walkthrough.

What is a business plan template?

A business plan template is an editable business plan document that a prospective business owner must populate in order to develop their own business plan. In some instances, the template is pre-populated in an effort to assist the entrepreneur with the process, however the risks associated with this are numerous (we’ll deal with some of those later in this article).

Business plan templates should provide a standardised format and layout for a business plan and also provide the necessary information that is required in each section of a business plan. The template is put together to serve as your basic business plan that can be amended and adapted as your business grows, changes direction or hits unexpected snags. Ideally it needs to allow the business owner to make changes to their business plan without having to rewrite it – an unnecessary and time-consuming process.

Your business is unique. With this in mind, it is important to remember that your business plan should reflect that your business is, in fact, unique. Always ensure that you pick a business plan format that works for you. It must meet your specific business needs and this means that there is no right or wrong way. That said, there are obviously some do’s and some don’ts to remember when creating the plan for your business, most of which are covered in this article.

Don't be fooled by the myth that only start-up businesses need a business plan. Regardless of whether you plan to grow your company or maintain its current success level, a good, well thought out business plan will keep you grounded and on the trajectory you seek. It is important to remember that your business plan is a living document, so, make sure your business plan is an easy-to-use and easily understood template, allowing for the evolution of the business plan. That way you need never create this type of plan afresh, you can review your template and amend it accordingly. This will save you much needed time, time that could be put into getting new customers or another growth opportunity. The cliché, ‘time is money’, certainly rings true when it comes to your business.

Updating and referring to your plan on a regular basis can drive better decision-making. It can also help keep your focus clear. Clear focus is critical as the demands of growth, customers, staff and investors may threaten to cloud your company's vision.  

Your business plan is the blueprint of your business’ success.

Learn and build your plan at the same time

Hola Business is an online training programme that provides the framework for you to write your business plan effectively and professionally. Its easy-to-use interface is designed to help you develop your complete business plan while learning some of the most important skills needed to become a successful entrepreneur. 

Get up to speed quickly with what you need to know in our 12-module online course, which will give you significant insight into the following:  

Knowing Your Competition

Find out who they are & analyse their offering, location, target markets & disadvantages. This insight is key to understanding your target market.

Determining Market Size & Potential Customers

Establish the size of your market & identify potential customers. Aids in developing strategies to penetrate the market and hook customers.

Getting to grips with Strengths & Weaknesses

Get to grips with your strengths & weaknesses. This is achieved via a SWOT analysis and will help you position yourself against competitors.

Developing a Business Plan Overview

What is your business, who are your competitors and your customers, what are your strengths & weaknesses and what is the potential market size?

Defining Vision & Mission

Where do you want to be in 5 to 10 years? What products and services are you delivering, to whom and where?

Developing Your Scorecard

Present a clear snapshot of your business and its goals. Used for staff and outside agencies like banks, potential investors or partners.

Setting Business Goals

Be SMART: Goals must be Specific, Measurable & Achievable, as well as Realistic and achieved in a specified Time.

Doing Proper Financial Planning

Determine and populate your financial plan, including forecasts to avoid nasty surprises.

Let Hola Business guide you through your business plan. Sign up today.

Things you’ll learn from this article

• The main purposes of a business plan

Why is a financial plan needed in my business plan template?

What should you include in a business plan template, how do you write a business plan, what is the best business plan template, what should i include in my business plan template executive summary / overview.

• Should I incorporate market analyses within the business plan template

Business plan template check list

Wrapping up, looking for a business plan template click here, what are the main purposes of a business plan.

A business plan has 2 primary purposes.

• Firstly, it should be used to help run your company in line with a consistent vision. It becomes a roadmap (to success) by setting goals and actions for the perspectives that constitute most businesses: customers, growth, operations and finance. Implementing your business plan effectively should greatly improve your chances for success.
• The second purpose is acquiring finance. A lender or investor will not finance or participate in your company unless you can prove your roadmap to success. You need to be able to provide a realistic forecast as to when creditors could, realistically, expect a return on investment.

A business plan can be described as the blueprint to explain how you will operate your business. While it is a necessary document used to secure funding, the plan is actually for your benefit. A good plan will provide a systematic guide when starting a new business or when expanding your existing company. Ideally, it should provide direction for every decision you make as your company moves forward.

Essentially, a business plan should fulfil a dual function: It should be both a management tool and a planning tool.

Management tool

A business plan as a management tool should provide financial projections and enhance the monitoring and control of the enterprise through analysing management indicators and results.

This information can also be used for a financial projections template.

Planning Tool

As a planning tool, a business plan is used to show that the company assumes responsibility for the definition of its objectives. It aids by including results orientated actions and planning for the fulfilment of the company’s economic commitment.

Additionally, as a tool, it helps orientate the decision-making process and provides both quantitative and qualitative information.

Looking to start a business? Hola Business shows you how.

The following tips can be implemented when considering your bus. plan template:

Get organised

Putting your business idea into writing helps you clarify and simplify your thoughts. It also aids in organising any steps that must be taken in order to drive your business to success. Look at it as a jigsaw puzzle – there are numerous individual pieces that all need to fit together for your business to become profitable. Skipping important steps – even just one – may disrupt some or all of your efforts within your business further down the line. So, you will need to be very specific, even if the plan is only for you.

You should use measurable milestones and tools that can track your performance expectations. When you have everything in writing, it is easier to see the bigger picture. This may aid you in identifying any potential challenges before you inadvertently make errors that could impact your business in one way or another.

Stay on track

To maintain a long-range view of your business while making daily decisions, referring back to your business plan intermittently will help. Doing this makes it easier to keep track of each business development step, which means you won’t miss important elements.

A well-written business plan template provides a starting point and a skeleton timetable that will help drive your business activities. It will keep you grounded and help you focus on your target market.

Clarify and focus your goals

A business plan is a fantastic aid in defining your goals as well as the steps required to reach these goals.

A business plan should spell out your purpose and vision, as well as defining your goals and the steps needed to reach them. Clearly focused goals in your business plan also serve to explain objectives to interested parties like investors, partners, creditors, etc.

This plan should state the amount of capital you need and from where the investment will be sourced. It will clarify the repayment means and timeline, and include Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Cash Flow forecasts.

Prepare for the Future

The information described above – outlining your goals and the strategy of reaching them – will help you prepare for the future. The market research contained in your business plan template should include any projections that are based on consumer needs, as well as your ability to fulfil them.

A well-developed business plan should include scenarios that identify potential obstacles so the company is prepared to make operational decisions in line with the overall business strategy. Nothing is cast in stone, and potential obstacles may well include possible market changes.

Hola Business is brought to you by instructors with over 50 years’ experience business experience.

The purpose of a financial plan in your business plan template is to help you evaluate the profitability and economic feasibility of the business. That sounds complex but isn’t really, what it effectively means is that you need to look at the goals and actions of the business plan in terms of their financial outcome. 

This then helps the entrepreneur to analyse how the decisions he or she makes will impact the financial position of the business. The elements contained in the financial plan template will typically include:

• Income projections
• Expenditure projections
• An Income Statement forecast
• A Balance Sheet forecast
• A Cash Flow forecast

Income Projection

Before drawing up the Income Statement forecast, it’s useful to project the income and expenditure according to the goals and actions in the business plan template.

Income projections should be done for each product line if you have more than one, and for each income generating item, use as many different variables that will affect your income as possible to get realistic projections. Examples of these can include: competition, market size, growth of the potential market, sales volume and market share, etc.

Expenditure Projection

The expenditure projection looks at the flow of resources (mainly money) used when acquiring the product or service supplied by the company.

When projecting expenses, try to get as much information as possible about the kinds of expenses the business will incur. Each item should be looked at and captured independently onto the financial plan template. Special attention should also be given to the potential future increases in expense item, as these can cause nasty surprises if not identified in the planning stages.

Income Statement forecast

The basis for evaluating the economic potential of the business comes from the Income Statement forecast, which enables business owners and potential investors to assess the expected performance of the business in terms of income, gross profit, expenses and of course the all-important variable net profit.

Ideally, the Income Statement forecast should comprise of monthly data for the current year and annualised forecasts for the following 2 years.

Balance Sheet forecast

The Balance Sheet forecast is designed to reflect the net worth of your company, comprising the elements of Assets, Liabilities and Shareholder’s Equity.

The Balance Sheet forecast is compiled by making a list of all the expected assets, liabilities, and equity of your business after the end of the first year. 

You may need to consider things like short-term and long-term financing of the company, and certain information will come from the other forecasts that make up the financial plan, such as the expected cash position from the Cash Flow forecast.

Cash Flow forecast

Cash flow measures exactly that: the inflows and outflows of actual cash through the business within a specified time. Cash flow projections help the entrepreneur to determine whether they have sufficient cash for the operations of the business or if more is required. 

Cash flow differs from the Income Statement in that it is only concerned with when cash is coming in and when it is going out. This is vitally important from a planning point of view as it helps to assess the business’ ability to meet its obligations, as well as to identify the funding gaps that may exist.  

Transform your idea into a successful business model with Hola Business.

While your specific plan is unique, most consultants and business schools agree, that there is fairly standard, but vital, information that should be included in most of these plans. Whilst it may seem to be a good idea to have a comprehensive template covering every single microscopic aspect or detail, these kinds of plans become unwieldy and more importantly unlikely to be implemented. Hola Business’ planning methodology looks to provide your entire, implementable business plan template in a few concise pages. Let’s look at what can be included to suit the necessary requirements for the next step of your business.

Suggested information to include in your business plan

Business Overview | Goals and Actions | Financial Plan

Business Overview

This refers to providing more detail about the problem that your business is solving. You can explain what it is that your customers need and why you think your business is the one they may want to purchase from. This involves describing, succinctly, the problem that is worth solving and then moving on to the solution. You can go into detail about what sets your company apart from you current or potential competition. Describe your business’ unique or special qualities as well. This area in the business plan template also provides the opportunity for you to speak about your target market and your competition in a little more detail. When discussing your target market, include the market size and segments. Describe who your key customers are and what their attributes are. If you target market includes various segments – or multiple customer groups – then also describe each group. Include the number of potential people or customers in each segment and also combine them so you can give an idea of the actual size of the total target market. When you describe your competition, it is important to include the alternatives to your solution. In other words, what are the products and / or services that your potential customers are using? Then move on to describe your businesses advantages or – more specifically – why your service or product is better than theirs as well as any competitive advantages you may have. This could include unique components to your business, or a patented product that could significantly boost your market share.

Hola Business will provide you with the business knowledge you need to succeed.

Goals and Actions

Executing your business plan template is going to depend heavily on your ability to set realistic, attainable goals, that can be translated into clearly defined actions. The business plan template should consist of objectives around customers, growth, operations and finance, as well as contain information around the measurement of milestones.

• Customers: Selling is one of the primary objectives of your business, which is boosted with marketing. So, generally, marketing your product / service and business is a part of the sales process and is included in your variable costs in your expense budget. It is about the way you plan to inform the market that you have the solution to their requirement. The customer section needs to contain relevant information around the gaining of new customers and how you plan to satisfy existing customers. Remember that advertising is only one form of spreading the word. You may have unique ideas which you can include. After all, this document is for you and parties interested in helping your business, so don’t be afraid to share your marketing ideas within the appropriate sections of your business plan.
• Growth: Identifying how and where the business is expected to grow is important for the long-term success of any business. This area of the business plan template needs to establish what the business must do in order to acquire the know-how required for its development.  Value plays an important role in the growth of a business, so you would also want to look at where it can change and grow in order to expand the value that it offers to its customers. This may take the form of new products and services, but also or looking into new geographical locations into which to expand.
• Operations: Processes, systems and technology you are using as well as the equipment and tools make up the operations goals in your business plan. The goals and actions set up around this area of the business plan template look fundamentally at how the systems and processes of the business as well as the technology employed in the business can best be used to return value, not only to the business, but to its customers as well.
• Finance:  This section should look towards outlining the financial aspirations of the business and needs to include high-level objectives around the achievement of financial performance. This provides the blueprint then for how financial performance will also be tracked and measured in the business. These objectives then form an integral part of the development of the financial plan template, as they will guide the forecasting process of building the financial plan.
• Actions:  In this section you should list your milestones in the form of action plans, especially aimed at the achievement of the goals listed previously. Actions are however insufficient on their own and must be accompanied with the dates you aim to accomplish them. A target without a date is meaningless. Included in your action plans should be actions that the business has already achieved. This is seen as proof that your new business is gaining traction, as well as providing you with a record of achievement. Doing this translates as evidence that your business, products and services are getting enthusiastic attention from customers and potential customers.

Hola Business is geared towards bringing your business to life  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan is the final piece of the business plan template puzzle and should consists of forecasts and notes explaining the rationale behind them. (Remember that with Hola Business, your financial plan is automatically completed as you complete the 12-module online course.) When compiling your forecasts your key assumptions will be a description of the way you came up with the values in your financial forecast. Some things to take into account here would be:

•  are your revenues projected by past results? 
• did you conduct market research or is it guess work based on past experience? 
• What are your monthly expenses and how much profit do you think will be generated over the same period? Your monthly expenses will depict your projected expenses (expenses you expect over the coming year).

You will also need to identify and describe the use of your funds and the sources from which you get funding. The use of funds in your forecast includes financing such as investments loans or any other method. It is important that you elaborate on what it is that you are going to do with the financing that you receive. It is important that you accurately describe your financing plans in this section. Is it your own money that you will be investing, what type of credit will you use – a line of credit or a credit card? Will you make use of personal loans or business loans, and when do you expect to receive the funding? For new enterprises, as yours may be, you may not have the full financing details yet, which is perfectly understandable. What you then need to do is to explain what you know and provide a timeline as to when the details will be sorted out, and how.  

Forecast Statements: All the information collected then needs to be populated into the financial plan template in the form of projected financial statements. These should include:

• Projected Income Statement: This includes your revenue, costs of sales, gross profit and expenses, which will allow you to provide your expected net profit.
• Projected Balance Sheet: In this part of your statement, you include items of cash, accounts receivable, inventory and other current assets, as well as your long-term assets and the accumulated depreciation. You will need to include all information pertaining to your total assets and total current liabilities, the owners’ total equity with the final projection consisting of the total liabilities and equity.
• Projected Cash Flow statement: In this section, you need to include the net cash flow from your business operations, culminating in the amount of cash at the end of the period.

Your business plan will be ready to present to potential investors upon course completion.

Business Plan Templates and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

There’s no hard and fast rule on how to go about writing a business plan, but most plans should contain some information about your product, customers, competitors, operations, financial estimates and your plans for the future. As you look to grow your business, you should refer to your business plan. When you decide to make changes to your business, those changes should be reflected in your business plan. When you make updates to your business plan, you get to see how your proposed changes will affect your entire business. Working with Hola Business when starting your new business will guide you through what most people find to be a daunting process, using a simple to understand (let’s avoid business school jargon shall we!), easy-to-use training methodology that allows you to capture your plan as you learn. 

Your business plan should remind you of the reasons that you started your business. It is important that you remember your original goals and understand how any business changes may affect your original vision.  

• Read everything you can about your industry and talk to your audience so that you know everything about the industry that you are entering. Research and analyse your product, your market and your objective expertise. Consider spending twice as much time researching, evaluating and thinking as you spend actually writing the business plan. This may seem like a lot of unnecessary work at first, but always bear in mind that a great business idea is to learn from the professionals. If it has worked for them and for others then there is a good reason, so spend a lot of time researching. Research, research, research and research some more.

Let your research establish exactly what the purpose of your plan should be. It should also be a guideline which provides business direction. This allows a business to plan its future and helps it avoid most bumps in the road.

Investors and creditors need facts. So, if part of your plan is to increase sales in a specific product, for example, you will need to state from where the new business will come, and be specific. Having a strategy to raise prices without the possibility of hurting current sales levels appears to be a great way to increase revenue. However, you need to be 100% certain in your market analysis or it could backfire. It may even be detrimental to your business if you haven’t been extremely careful in your analysis, and are certain that you current customer base will not shrink.

Once you have been in business for some time and have real market feedback on your product, you may find it necessary to refine your offering or your product offering.

Adaptability is also key to any business, and your business plan must be adaptable too. You should be able to adapt it as your business evolves, but importantly you must be able to adapt the plan to your specific target audience. Different groups of people have different interests. So, if your target market is segmented, you need to try ensure that your plan can be adapted to reflect those interests. If you don’t know what those interests are, it probably means you haven’t adequately researched your target market. The solution... return to the first step in this answer – research, research and research some more. Adaptability also refers to the template for your business plan. Remember, this is more of a working document than an actual template. The ‘template’ is specific to your business, and must always reflect the most recent changes, whatever they may be.

Build your own business plan as you learn

The best type of template for your business plan is one that is specifically suited to and tailored for your own business. After doing the course from Hola Business, that is exactly what your business plan will have achieved.

It is important to remember that a business plan template for a small start-up business and a business plan template for corporate may vary. Equally, there are often different templates that look to cater for specific business type such as for commercial vs. industrial vs. retail. The type of template can also depend on whether your business offers products or a service. While all of these factors influence the content of the business plan you need to generate, industry specific business plan templates often add levels of complexity to them that aren’t generally required for a start-up business plan template.

Hola Business provides the solution for you. As part of its online process, your business plan and therefore business plan template is generated as you complete the course. Because you are doing this based on your specific business, product and service as well as target market, it is the most direct route to developing your business plan, and the template to which you will refer.

Although we have mentioned this above, albeit in different wording, your business plan should include:

• Your business concept. Tell everyone what you are about, why are you in business, what is your company all about and what methods will you employ to drive success.
• Your products or service. Briefly explain the factors that make your company special. What is your competition differentiator (i.e. what makes your company different to your competitor companies? Importantly, use this part to describe the challenges that your service or product solve.
• Your primary or central strategy. How are you going to accomplish what it is that you are going to do as explained in the above point? Have you decided on actionable goals and, if so, what are they? Do you know which personnel will be involved? What is your marketing strategy and who are you targeting? 
• Financial information. Every business requires funds. It is, therefore important, to incorporate the costs, both current costs and anticipated costs. Details of the costings to include have been covered in ‘Financial Plan’ above, which falls in the ‘suggested information to include’.

Conducting an online search for a business plan template yields numerous results. Some of them include: business plan template pdf, simple business plan template and small business plan template. As previously mentioned, spend a lot of time establishing which is the correct one for your business, and bear in mind that template does not mean copy it as it is. Use the templates provided by all means, just be sure that you always remember that no template can be as unique as your own, which is tailored specifically for your business and the industry in which it falls, as well as to the markets to which you are targeting. This is the reason you should make an investment with Hola Business. All of this is done for you! At the end of the course, you will have a detailed business plan you can turn into your business plan template – and easily update it regularly.

Get all the tools you need to kickstart your business. Ask Hola Business how.

The Vision and Mission statements: It could be a word or 2 only, 2 sentences or a paragraph, but it must clarify the thrust of your business. It needs to leave readers with a clear picture of what your business is all about.

Business description: It doesn’t matter if your business is brand new or been around for several years, this is an important part of your executive summary.

List of major competitors: Regardless of how many or how few you may have, showing an understanding of the competitive environment is a must for any business plan.

Relative strengths and weaknesses of your product: This is just a highlight of the differentiated nature of the product or service that you offer, but be careful not to go into too much detail, as that will come later in the business plan. 

Market size and potential customers: Again, the key is not the detail about your market and potential customers - those details come later in the business plan. Rather provide an overall picture of the market and a list of the potential customers. 

Hola Business teaches you how to begin and run your business through 12 interactive modules. Join us today.

Should i incorporate market analyses within the business plan template.

While a market analyses forms part of your plan, people sometimes ask if it is necessary to include this information into your actual template.

The answer is yes, and is usually derived from a SWOT analysis.

Importantly, an investor or lender interested in getting involved in your business from a financial point of view will need to have an understanding of your target market. They will need to know that you are targeting the correct market, if that market can afford your service or product, the age and other demographics, etc. Essentially, those interested parties should know everything there is to know about your target market in as few words as possible.

Your target market may shift as your business grows or changes, and you will always need to refer back to the original markets for a variety of reasons. Having this information in a template means it is exactly where you need it, when you need it.

All successful entrepreneurs plan and research strategies and prepare the business before committing themselves to the chosen course of action. Part of this is conducting a market analysis.

So, what kind of information, typically, should be included in your template for your business plan when incorporating your market analysis?

• Who your potential customers are
• What their shopping and buying habits are
• The size of your target market
• The amount of money your potential customers are willing to pay
• Who your competitors are
• What your competitors’ strengths and weaknesses are

Regardless if you are starting a venture, introducing a new product, or growing your small business, properly done market research can help take you to the next level.

Follow these steps when conducting a market analysis for your business:

Determine the purpose of your study Your analysis is a critical part of your small business plan. It shows lenders and other interested financial parties that you know your industry well and that your business has growth potential.

Before you begin, determine whether your analysis is for internal or external use. Internally will include improving cash flow or business operations, for example. Externally will include trying to convince financial institutions to give you a business loan or for investors to invest in your business.

There are various reasons to conduct market research. These include assessing business risks, reducing issues, or creating opportunities among your target market/s. You should look at previous challenges to decrease future risks and analyse previous successes to ascertain what you need to do in the future.

Make sure you decide whether your study will be external, internal or both before starting your research. The reason is that if it is for internal purposes, you more than likely will not have to collect as much information and statistics as you would with one for external purposes.

Look at your industry’s outlook Outline the state of your industry at the current time. Using metrics like size, projected growth and trends, for example, is necessary. But you must also ensure that you have all necessary data to back up your claims.

This will allow investors or lenders see that you’ve conducted comprehensive research on your business’s industry. It will also give them an idea as to whether or not your industry is worth them investing their time and money.

Pinpoint target customers By analysing your market, you determine who your potential customers are. Not every person will be your customer, but you expect that, don’t you? Pinpointing your target customers is called target market analysis.

You need to understand everything about your customers. Who they are and where they come from, what do they do and how old they are. Your research should paint a clear picture of your potential customers and include:

• Education level
• Marital / family status

Once you have narrowed down exactly who your customers are, it is time to discover their demographics, needs, interests and personalities. Experts suggest you consider creating customer personas based on your research.

Many businesses have multiple customer personas. Once you’ve identified your different customers’ characteristics, then build personas to represent each typical customer. Pinpointing your target market in this way can help you cater to future customers better, and to market your service or product much more efficiently.

Revisit your target market from time to time to see if they are still a fit for your business. As your business grows, your potential customers may evolve or change.

Compare your competition Understanding your competition and knowing who they are targeting are necessary to further analyse your target market. Find out what other businesses are in the same space and research them properly. Remember to analyse aspects such as their offering, location target markets and any disadvantages that you can see.

Once this is complete, narrow it down to a list of your key competitors and, one by one determine their strengths and weaknesses.

• What does their business have that yours doesn’t?
• Why would a customer pick one of their businesses over yours?
• Do the competitors pose any threat to your business?

We suggest you use the well-known SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats). Using this method will help you in determining your own business’ advantages and marketing position.

With Hola Business, your business plan is automatically generated as you complete each business exercise.

Gather additional data The more information you gather, the better off your business will be. When it comes to conducting a market analysis, information really is your greatest ally.

It is important that the data you use is unbiased, relevant, and factual. This is necessary for you to: a) back up your research; and b) make decisions that are based on accurate information.

Remember to use credible sources to gather your information. There are numerous resources you can call upon using the internet to find all sorts of information. The Department of Trade and Industry (dti) could be one; SA Statistics may be another. Depending on the type of information you require, there is always a source. In fact, you could analyse your competitors’ strengths and weaknesses, conduct target market surveys or run focus groups with your target market. Additionally, there are a number of trade journals in every industry. These, too, can be used as a source for some interesting market statistics.

Analyse your findings Once you have finished analysing the market, it’s time to study your findings. A good idea is to organise your research into different sections. Ideally, there should be 3 sections. One for your business purpose, another for the target market and a third for the competition.

A few suggestions to include in your findings:

• Your industry’s size and growth rate (an overview)
• Your projected percentage of market share
• Results of your other analyses
• Your outlook for the industry
• Buying trends
• How much customers are prepared to pay
• The various prices of your different offerings
• Possible discounts you plan on offering
• Your cash flow projection
• Your business’s forecasted growth

Based on your research, things like your cash flow cycle, gross margin and customers’ buying habits and other things for your business can be forecast with a degree of accuracy.

Put your analysis into action Put your analysis into action rather than letting all of that good research go to waste.

• If the research was for internal purposes, consider how you can use the for business improvement. Use your analysis to try create efficiency in your business processes.
• If the research was conducted for external purposes, this must be used to speak with lenders and investors about your research and conclusions.

Remember to include a summary of this in your business plan template. This will be a quick reminder to you about the priority points, and you can revisit your in-depth market analysis every now and then.

Demonstrate your business skills in a business simulation exercise from Hola Business.

Does your business plan template include all of the important elements of an ideal business plan template? Any decent business plan template,should at it's minimum, contain information around: finances, scope of operations, customers and competition.

Financial Plan: Prepared for banks, other lending institutions and investors, the financial outline of your business or new venture is, possibly, the most important part of your business plan. It will outline start-up costs, estimated business expenditure for the first several months, as well as the amount of external financing gained from potential sales. This forecast is generally based on the prevailing economic conditions, as well as the research undertaken into the business' target market.

Scope of operations: This is where the outline of the business is succinctly outlined in terms of what it is, what it plans to do, and how it plans to do it. Elements around the growth of the business, acquisition of knowldedge as well as the use of technology and process improvement should be explored in this section. Total market size, the previous years’ annual growth rate and market segments are useful indicators in this portion of your plan. Whether you will sell goods or services in local, regional, domestic or international markets should also be included as each of them will have specific and distinct characteristics relating to current size and growth.

Customers: The customers are your target market, the better defined your target market is, the better you will be able to plan. A good suggestion is to include information on the current demand for certain goods or services. This information can be tailored to your business operations to specific consumers. If your company is going to operate in different markets, a customer analysis might be necessary for each market.

Competition: In this section, the business owner will describe their competitive advantage and how they created it. Also, it should include how this competitive advantage can help achieve sufficient market share and ultimately a profit in this specific market place. It can also include regulations and potential changes to the environment that may affect the company.

You should now have a better understanding of a business plan and its template, target markets, financial plans, markets, competitors, mission and vision statements and a whole lot more. It should have given you the ability to generate your own business plan template or, at the very least, an understanding of what should be done.

Understand the risks of a using a free business plan template?

Are you looking for a free business plan or free business plan template that you complete without having undertaken all the required research? An accurate and future-orientated business plan depends on the potential entrepreneur’s ability to populate a business plan template competently and accurately.

Have you considered how complicated a legitimate and appropriate business plan really is? Do you honestly know how to complete a business plan template accurately, and in a manner that is truly in the best interest of your company? Will it adequately plan for your business launch and subsequent expansion? Have you even considered the pitfalls – current and future – of an inadequate business plan?

Opting for a free business plan template to save yourself a little bit of cash outlay in the early stage of your business may seem appealing, but you run the risk of getting the basics incorrect. If the basics are incorrect, your business' potential longevity may be at risk. Another option is to opt for professional guidance from the ideal business authority. The choice is yours. We believe that spending a little bit up of cash front could potentially save you thousands, if not hundreds of thousands in the future.

Hola Business is the business starter authority in South Africa. South African business trainers and experts have tailored this course for South African entrepreneurs and business start-ups.

J oining with Hola Business will help you accurately define your business, which will make a lot of difference as to how you plan for your business.

For just R1 499 , your subscription to Hola Business will help you learn exactly what you need to know to make your business successful. It helps you build your own business plan and financial plan as you learn.

12 interactive modules to get your business going

Get to understand the fundamentals of running a business. We’ll help you bring your business to life while solving some practical challenges in running a business. When complete you'll be prepared for the real world of business.

All of this will help you work through a unique Hola Business case study and compare it with your business model. Our training method allows you to develop your business plan as you learn.  

Personal Goals

When managing a business, you should put some focus onto yourself. Central to this will be the development of a Wheel of Life, as well as the setting of some personal goals, and action plans to achieve those goals.

Cycles of Your Business

Pre-start-up, development and growth phases. Learn about the early cycles of business, the challenges you’ll face in your business journey and how you can be prepared for the changes the business will go through.

From Idea to Plan

Take that business idea and interrogate it a little more. This module will create the overview of your business plan by defining your business, your market and competitors, as well as doing a SWOT analysis

Business Planning

Develop your Vision, Mission, SMART goals and action plans as you formulate your own Business Plan using a Balanced Scorecard, through an easy to understand step by step process of creating these key planning documents.

Intro to Financial Planning

A quick introduction to the importance of financial forecasting, introducing the three key documents that will make up the Financial Plan.

Understanding Costs

Gain a detailed understanding of the costs of starting and operating your business, your day-to-day costs, and how they impact on the business.

Pricing for Profit

A straightforward guide to setting prices, incorporating pricing strategy, costing principles, breakeven points & guidelines to profitable pricing.

Financial Scorecard

Gaining a clear understanding of the financial scorecards of the business are critical to the long-term health of your business. Be guided through the forecasting process, culminating in the development of your Income Statement forecast.

Managing Working Capital

Learn how to manage your working capital, and understand the flow of money through your business. Be guided through the development of your own Cash Flow and Balance Sheet forecasts, completing your Financial Plan.

Setting up Your Business

All a start-up needs to know about tax, compliance and admin. Take the frustration out of searching the internet to find out what you need to know about in setting up your business.

Getting Finance

Explore the ways you can look to get financing for your business. Examine both traditional and alternative funding options available to you, and what you need to know.

Marketing for Start-Ups

Understand business-appropriate marketing fundamentals and identify the ideal marketing channels for successful promoting of your business to your target audience. 

Got a great business idea? Take the next step – sign up to Hola Business today.

Business Plan Template for Small Businesses

This Business Plan template can help you with the following – formulate a clear statement of your business mission and vision, put together a roadmap and timetable for achieving your goals and objectives and clear description of your marketing strategies. (Courtesy: New Discovery Business Solutions)

Your business plan is the blue-print of your business and provides a roadmap for future development. Your business plan holds a clear statement of your business mission and vision and provides a roadmap and timetable for achieving your goals and objectives

Download the Business Plan template to:

• Test out a new idea to see if it holds real promise of success
• Help you obtain financing and attract potential investors
• Identify and arrange strategic alliances

We are committed to your privacy and will not share information with 3rd parties. Read our full Privacy Policy  here

Latest Resources

Tax Year-End Guide for Small…

As the tax-year end approaches, do you…

Tech Buyer’s Guide

Download the Tech Buyer’s Guide and learn…

The Small Business Bounce Back…

Get the Tools & Resources you need…

How to Prepare An Income…

Along with a balance sheet and cash…

SME South Africa is a one-stop-shop for business owners to access advice, funding, resources and solutions they need.

• Building 2, 1st Floor Clearwater Office Park, Millennium Blvd, Strubens Valley, Roodepoort, 1735
• [email protected]
• www.smesouthafrica.co.za

Connect With Us

Useful links.

• Business Advice
• B2B Marketplace

Quick Links

• Advertise with Us
• Advertising Disclosure
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of use

Copyright ©2024 | SME South Africa | Designed and Developed by Adclickafrica

TERMS & CONDITIONS | PRIVACY POLICY

• Overview of the dtic
• Minister Ebrahim Patel
• Deputy-Ministers
• PAIA & POPIA
• Careers at the dtic
• Board/CEO/Commissioners Vacancies
• Master Plans
• Media Statements
• Publications
• Presentations
• Strategic and Annual Performance Plans
• Entity Annual Reports
• Parliamentary Questions
• Opinion Pieces
• 12I Tax Allowance Incentive
• Agro Processing Support Scheme (APSS)
• Aquaculture Development and Enhancement Programme (ADEP)
• Medium and Heavy Commercial Vehicles Automotive Investment Scheme (MHCV-AIS)
• People-carrier Automotive Investment Scheme (P-AIS)
• Black Industrialists Scheme (BIS)
• Capital Projects Feasibility Programme (CPFP)
• Critical Infrastructure Reconstruction Programme (CIRP)
• Clothing, Textiles, Footwear and Leather Growth Programme (CTFLGP)
• Export Marketing and Investment Assistance (EMIA)
• Foreign Film and Television Production and Post-Production Incentive (Foreign Film)
• SA Film & TV Production and Co-production (SA Film)
• South African Film and Television Production Incentive
• SA Black Film
• Global Business Service (GBS)
• Innovation and Technology Funding instruments
• Manufacturing Competitiveness Enhancement Programme (MCEP)
• Production Incentive (PI)
• Manufacturing Support Programme (MSP)
• Sector Specific Assistance Scheme (SSAS)

Strategic Partnership Programme (SPP)

• Support Programme for Industrial Innovation (SPII)
• Technology and Human Resource for Industry Programme (THRIP)
• Workplace Challenge Programme (WPC)
• Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment
• B-BBEE Codes, B-BBEE Acts, Strategies & Policies
• B-BBEE Charters
• B-BBEE Procurement, Transformation & Verification
• BEE Advisory Council
• Equity Equivalent Programmes for Multinationals
• Institutional Support
• B-BBEE Archive
• Special Economic Zones
• Industrial Procurement
• National Industrial Policy Framework
• National Industrial Participation Programme
• Chemicals controlled by International Conventions
• Fourth Industrial Revolution
• Technical Barriers to Trade
• Research Reports
• Foreign Economic Representatives
• Trade Agreements
• World Trade Organisation
• African Regional Integration
• Trade Negotiations
• Learn to Export
• Export Promotion
• Exporter Registration
• Export Organisations
• Export Opportunities
• National Exporter Development Programme (NEDP)
• Business Permits
• Why invest in SA
• How to do Business in SA
• Sector Opportunities
• Business Facilitation and Aftercare
• Group Offerings
• Evaluation of EMIA
• Supplier Maintenance Form
• Trade Invest Africa
• Trade Institutional Support
• Bills and Acts
• Patent Examination Board
• Specialist Committee on Company Law
• FRSC Rules and Procedures
• International Financial Reporting Standards
• Financial Reporting Standards Council Members
• Financial Reporting Guides
• Standing Advisory Committee on Intellectual Property
• Establishment of the National Policy Councils
• National Liquor Act
• Application Procedures and Forms
• NLA Liquor Register
• Liquor Industry Reports
• Regulatory Bodies
• Verification Agencies
• Research for the Liquor Policy
• Practice Note
• Application Forms
• Proposed prohibition of the use of certain EU names
• Institutional Support for Business
• South African Council for Space Affairs
• Non-Proliferation
• The South African Council For Space Affairs
• Bids Awarded
• Bids Cancelled
• Invoice Management Portal
• Economic Statistics
• New Vehicle Sales

Strategic Partnership Programme

Strategic Partnership Programme Duration Extension

The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition ( the dtic ) initiated the Strategic Partnership Programme (SPP) to develop and support programmes/interventions aimed at enhancing the manufacturing and services supply capacity of suppliers with linkages to strategic partner’s supply chains, industries or sectors.

Programme description

• The objective of SPP to encourage large private sector enterprises in partnership with Government to support, nurture and develop SMEs within the partner’s supply chain or sector to be manufacturers of goods and suppliers of services in a sustainable manner.
• The intention of the programme is to support Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) policy through encouraging businesses to strengthen the element of Enter and Supplier Development (ESD) of the Codes of Good Practice.
• SPP will be available on a cost-sharing basis between Government and the strategic partner(s). It is available for infrastructure and business development services necessary to mentor and grow enterprises.

Qualifying costs     

The following costs are eligible for support:

• Machinery, equipment and tools
• Infrastructure linked to the strategic partner’s supplier development initiative (owned/leased buildings, leased improvements)
• Product or service development
• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
• Operational costs
• Business development services

Grant support

• The grant approval will be based on projections for the first year at application stage whereas the approval for subsequent year(s) will be dependent on the review of actual performance of the preceding year against agreed milestones.
• All payments will be made directly to the strategic partner’s established Special Purpose Corporate Vehicle (SPCV) or a set-up cost centre.
• The grant approval is capped at a maximum of R15 million (vat inclusive) per financial year over a three (3) year period towards qualifying costs, based on the number of qualifying suppliers and is subject to the availability of funds
• SPP offers a cost-sharing support of 50:50 towards manufacturing projects and 70:30 for projects that support manufacturing supply chain related services and deemed strategic by  the dtic .

Eligibility criteria

The strategic partner can either be:

• An entity with a minimum turnover of R100 million per annum for at least two (2) consecutive years at application stage confirmed by the latest available audited financial statements.
• An association with five (5) or more registered legal entities
• An association which can organise itself for this purpose and must in this regard provide a letter(s) of commitment from manufacturer(s) that controls and/or has a direct influence in the market/manufacturing value chain to be developed.

The strategic partner must be:

• A taxpayer in good standing and must be in this regard provide a valid tax clearance certificate.
• In compliance with the requirements of B-BBEE and must provide a valid certificate of B-BBEE Compliance.
• 60% of total SME’s supported by the strategic partner programme should at least be 51% owned by black south African citizen(s).
• Committed to the strategic partnership by having a corporate interest in supplier development and must in this regard provide a market access plan for the SME’s to be developed or off-take agreement(s).

Application procedure

• Applicants are welcome to contact  the dtic  directly or its appointed business support agencies in the provinces that can assist them with the application process.
• Applicants must submit a completed application form to  the dtic  outlining the objectives of the project.
• Applications must be submitted on line through  the dtic  website. No hand delivered applications will be accepted.

General enquiries contacts :

Documents :

Please follow the steps in this  document   to download and save Forms on your local drive

For any help with downloading or updating the SPP form, kindly contact the following people:

• Strategic Partnership Programme Guidelines
• SPP Application Financial breakdown template
• SPP Application Disbursment template
• SPP Claim Form
• SPP Quartely Report
• Strategic Partnership Programme Application Form
• Strategic Partnership Programme Application Checklist
• SME Profiling

Notice pertaining to the processing of personal information

Privacy Overview

Small Business Development

• Cooperatives Incentives Scheme

Black Business Supplier Development Programme

• Khula Enterprise Finance Ltd
• South African Micro-Finance Apex Fund

Technology for Sustainable Livelihoods

• Registering Your Business
• National Youth Service
• South African Women in Construction
• Technology for Women in Business

Gender and Women Empowerment Unit

Small enterprise development agency (seda).

Seda   supports the growth of small business. People can go to Seda for help to start a business or, if they already have a business, to make it stronger and more profitable. There is a Seda branch in each district municipality. These branches offer:

• information, advice and referrals
• tender information and advice
• import and export training
• trade information
• business assessments and business mentoring
• technical support
• market access
• business linkages

In addition to helping individuals in business, Seda has a special focus on co-operative enterprises , where a group of entrepreneurs share the profits and responsibility of a business.

Contact Seda :  012 441 1000 Business Information Centre :  0860 103 703 Website : www.seda.org.za

How to write a business plan

The first thing you need to do is state clearly and specifically what your business idea is. Very simply, you need to say what you intend doing, how you plan on doing it, when you plan to do it and why you believe you will succeed. In the process of doing that, you need to do some research into whether your idea and your plan will really work.  Your business plan should cover four main areas:

• Your strategic focus (your “niche”, or “core business”):  What exactly is it that your business will do? What makes it special? What won’t your business do?
• The marketing plan: How are you going to promote your product?  How are you going to price your product?  How do you plan on getting your product to your market?
• The operations plan: What staff will you have and what will they do?  Who will supply you with what you need?  How will you manage your business?
• The financial plan: What profits and losses will you make?  How much sales do you need to make to break even?  How much cash do you need to cover costs each month?  What is the source of your funds?  How will you use your funds?  If you need a loan, then what can you offer as security for that loan?

Important advice:

• Work out how big your market is (the total number of people who will buy your product).
• Is the market growing or not?  (Is there increasing demand for your product or is there an over-supply?)
• List all the factors about your business that will bring you success (e.g.  is it in a good place, is it cheap, is it very high quality?).

Look carefully at your situation and make a list of the following:

• your strengths and weaknesses in comparison with your competitors
• all the obvious market opportunities and threats
• the advantages you have over your competitors
• advantages that your competitors have over you
• ways of using your advantages to your benefit
• how you will deal with the disadvantages you face
• what must be done, when it must be done and how it be done.

Co-operatives Incentive Scheme (CIS)

Successful applicants are given cash grants so that their cooperative can obtain good quality services that will help them to grow their business. The Cooperative Incentive Scheme helps cooperatives from all industries: textiles, services, energy, agriculture, print, film, and video production, consumer and housing. For a cooperative to qualify for a grant, it needs to:

• be mainly black-owned
• be actively helping to create employment and overcome poverty
• be registered according to the Cooperatives Act, 14 of 2005
• have a simple Business Plan, which must be attached to applications forms
• provide quotations for the services for which it requires funding.

How to register a co-operative

To register your cooperative, you will need to fill in Form CR1 – Application for registration of primary/secondary/tertiary cooperative. You will then be notified of the other forms you will need to fill in, in the course of registering your cooperative.

Contact the Department of Trade and Industry: 012 394-1425/394-1608 Website: www.thedti.gov.za

This programme offers grants in a cost-sharing scheme to black-owned business for the purpose of business skills training. It offers support to black-owned enterprises by helping to improve their core competencies and management abilities, and enabling them to become more competitive. The scheme helps people with promotional marketing materials, software development and other activities such as quality improvement, processes and product improvement.

Companies that are majority black-owned (15% or more) and which have a significant representation of black managers on their management team quality for the grant. Companies should not earn more than R12 million per annum and must have been trading for at least a year. They need to be registered with CIPRO and with SARS. The maximum grant for which a single company can qualify is R100 000.

Application procedure : Obtain application guidelines and an application form.  Complete the application form. Obtain and attach a tax clearance certificate, and submit the application.

Contact the Department of Trade and Industry Customer Care Centre :  0861 843 384 Website : www.thedti.gov.za

Finance for Small Businesses

Khula enterprise finance ltd.

Khula helps SMMEs to get loans from banks. It does not lend money itself. Khula also provides mentorship to entrepreneurs, helping them to manage their businesses successfully. The mentorship programme includes the transfer of skills on a face-to-face basis, the development of viable business plans, and pre- and post-loan services.

Contact Khula :  012 394-5560/5900 or 0800 11 88 15 Website :  www.khula.org.za

South African Micro Finance Apex Fund (Samaf)

Samaf gives financial services to small-scale entrepreneurs living in rural and outer urban areas. Samaf does not lend money directly to the public. It uses existing institutions within communities to handle the funds and lend to qualifying entrepreneurs. Samaf has three products:  the Micro-Credit Fund (gives loans to entrepreneurs), the Capacity Building Fund (gives funds to be used for equipping the institutions with skills, system and equipment) and the Savings Mobilisation Fund (encourages savings).

Contact Samaf :  012 394-1805 Websites : www.samaf.org.za ; www.thedti.gov.za

This is a programme of the Department of Science and Technology (DST). It aims to create jobs for communities by helping to establish SMMEs. In particular, it makes use of technologies which can add value to SMMEs and makes them accessible to communities. At the same time, the programme helps to make these SMMEs successful by offering skills development and training.

The DST offers technological assistance in the following areas:

• Aquaculture : Communities are trained to farm indigenous fish as a business. They receive technology in terms of infrastructure (production cages) and training to manage a fish farm, including diseases and harvesting.
• Essential oils: These are valuable oils that are extracted from the leaves and flowers of plants. Communities benefit from skills development and training, and their businesses are linked to the local essential oils market.
• Indigenous medicinal plants :  Communities are taught to grow indigenous herbs commercially. These plants have special medicinal properties which have been scientifically proven. Communities receive training in farming methods and in how to start a commercial enterprise and their businesses are linked to local markets.

The DST does not support individuals, only communities and community groups. These communities are then helped to form a viable community business, in the form of a Section 21 Company or cooperative. In order to use these technologies and produce valuable crops in essential oils and indigenous medicinal plants, communities need to have access to suitable agricultural land.  Similarly, communities that want to benefit from fish farming must have access to irrigation dams.

Contact the DST Technology for Sustainable Livelihoods :   012 843-6421/18

Registering your business

When you start a business, it needs to be registered. To do so, fill in the relevant forms and submit them to the Companies and Intellectual Property Registration Office (CIPRO).

Contact CIPRO :  0861 843 384

Support For Youth

The Umsobomvu Youth Fund helps youth set up, expand and develop their businesses by teaching them essential business skills. Umsobomvu has the following programmes:

• The Franchise Fund helps youth to start and maintain their businesses. Through loans and a voucher system, it helps young people to access business support.
• Entrepreneurship Education Training: This training is aimed at helping young people understand the concepts and principles of entrepreneurship and business.
• Cooperative Training: This is basic training for young people on setting up and running a youth cooperative business.
• Graduate Development Training: This is a training programme for unemployed graduates to enhance their life and professional skills.
• Business Consulting Services Voucher: These are services designed to help youth set up, expand or develop their businesses.

Umsobomvu youth Advisory Centres (YACs) are walk-in centres around the country where youth can receive information, training and referrals services – in fact, everything they need to find employment or start their own businesses. YACs provide outreach services to communities that are unable to get to the centres, by taking career information, skills development and entrepreneurial advice to local schools in Mobile YACs.

Contact Umsobomvu :  08600 YOUTH (96884) Contact Umsobomvu Business Partnership :  011 470-3111 Websites :  www.youthportal.org.za

National Youth Service (NYS)

The National Youth Services is about involving young people in the development of our country. It is an opportunity for young people to actively serve their communities. The National Youth Service Programme aims to create a culture of service. It develops the skills, knowledge and abilities of young people. It also improves youth employability by giving opportunities for work experience and skills development, and by providing further learning opportunities.

For more information on the NYS, turn to the Expanded Public Works Programme.

Support For Women

South african women in construction (sawic).

Sawic is a national association of women enterprises or professionals and technical staff in all areas of construction, from the skilled trades to business ownership, with international affiliation to the National association of Women in Construction (Nawic). Sawic administers, facilitates, advocates and lobbies all the Departments of Public Works for the empowerment of its members.

Contact Sawic :  012 337-2400/2174

Technology for Women in Business (TWIB)

This programme aims to make science and technology more accessible to women in business, especially those in SMMEs.

Contact TWIB :  012 394-1644 Website :  www.twib.co.za

The Gender and Women Empowerment Unit of the Department of Trade and Industry (the dti) manages the South African Women Entrepreneurs Network (SAWEN). SAWEN helps women overcome the obstacles that they still experience in business.

It compiles a database of women-owned enterprises, in order to help women help one another. It organises networking forums, facilitates capacity-building programmes, and lobbies and advocates for policies that support women entrepreneurs.

Contact the Department of Trade and Industry:  012 394-1606

Share this page

• Board of Directors
• Executive Management
• Seda Organogram
• Useful Links
• Latest News
• Press Releases
• Seda Tenders
• Success Stories
• Seda Technology Programme
• Enterprise Development Division
• Annual Reports
• Media Clippings
• PAIA Manual
• Research Publications
• Stakeholder Newsletter
• Blogs&Vlogs
• National Office
• Eastern Cape
• Kwazulu Natal
• Northern Cape
• Western Cape
• Incubation Centres

BusinessPlans BusinessPlans //

Business Plans 

What is a business plan,   seda business talk.

Latest Publications

Privacy Policy

• Business Plans
• Business Ideas
• Business News
• Business Tips
• Testimonials
• Terms And Conditions
• REFUND POLICY
• DELIVERY POLICY
• PRIVACY POLICY
• WHATSAPP SUBSCRIPTION

Select Page

PRE-WRITTEN BUSINESS PLANS FOR SOUTH AFRICA (PDF, WORD AND EXCEL): COMPREHENSIVE VERSION, SHORT FUNDING/BANK LOAN VERSION AND AUTOMATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Posted by BizBolts | All Articles , Business Plans

We have several payment methods which you can use to buy the business plans.

Payment Method 1 (Visa card, Mastercard, Credit card, Debit Card) – R500

To purchase the business plans using Visa Card/Master Card click here: Business Plans Store . After you have purchased, you will instantly see the download link for the business plan package on the screen. We will also email you the download link. Click the button below to purchase business plans using Visa Card/ Mastercard.

The business plan package is a zipped compressed file containing the PDF, Word and Excel documents. To open the package after downloading it, just right click, and select Extract All. If you have any problems in downloading and opening the files, email us on [email protected] and we will assist you.

Payment Method  2 – (Instant EFT – FNB, Absa, Standard Bank, Nedbank, CapitecBank, Investec, TymeBank and African Bank. )

Other payment methods.

• Cash deposit into our FNB Company Bank Account
• EFT Transfer to our FNB Company Bank Account

Call/Whatsapp us on +27606334830 for the other payment methods. (Whatsapp us by clicking the link https://wa.me/27606334830 ). Email: [email protected] .

Testimonial 7

Thank you BizBolts for the business plan. I received the business plan immediately after payment, it was money well spent ! I was able to easily edit the business plan. After using the BizBolts business plan, I can wholeheartedly recommend their products and skills.

Testimonial 4

The business plan was very helpful, you did a great job of taking ideas and putting them into words as well as pointing out other aspects of the business plan I wouldn’t have thought of. I got funding using your business plan and it’s now 4 months since I started my poultry business, and everything is going well.

Testimonial 6

It is with excitement and pleasure to inform you that I have been successful in securing a loan from my bank. This would not have been possible if not for the BizBolts Business Plan. Thank you for your help, my dreams are now coming true.

Testimonial 1

Many thanks to the BizBolts team for putting together a fantastic business plan, I could not have done this business plan on my own. I managed to get funding from investors to start my butchery business using your business plan.

Testimonial 5

The BizBolts poultry business plan led us down the path from start to finish. Contact details of suppliers of key requirements were included in the business plan. It helped us crystallize our strategy, and the business plan was well received by the bank.

Testimonial 2

I am extremely pleased with the business plan and financial statements. The business plan is very detailed & it meets my requirements. I feel better equipped with tools that can help me secure funding.  I would have no hesitation of recommending your business plans to other people.

Testimonial 3

The business plan has a highly professional look and feel. The research really helps me look deep into the market that I am targeting, it’s well suited for the South African market. The business plan clearly outlined everything I need to start the business and the costs. It’s now easier to budget and plan. Thank you very much.

About the Business Plans

We decided to introduce the South African business plans after noting that many South Africans were venturing into businesses without a full understanding of the industry, market, how to run the businesses, the risks involved, profitability of the businesses and the costs involved, leading to a high failure rate of the start-ups.

Our business plans will make it easier for you to launch and run a business successfully, fully knowing what you are going into, and what’s needed to succeed in the business. It will be easier to plan and budget as the business plans will lay out all the costs involved in setting up and running the business. They are designed uniquely for the South African market.

USES OF THE BUSINESS PLANS (PDF, WORD AND EXCEL)

These business plans can be used for many purposes including:

• Raising capital from investors/friends/relatives
• Applying for a bank loan
• Start-up guide to launch your business
• As a project proposal
• Assessing profitability of the business
• Finding a business partner
• Assessing the initial start-up costs so that you know how much to save
• Manual for current business owners to help in business and strategy formulation

CONTENTS OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN BUSINESS PLANS (PDF, WORD AND EXCEL)

All our pre-written plans include, but not limited to:

• Market Analysis
• Industry Analysis
• 5 Year Automated Financial Statements [ Income statements, cash flow statements, balance sheets, monthly cash flow projections (3 years monthly cash flow projections, the remaining two years annually),break even analysis, payback period analysis, start-up costs, financial graphs, revenue and expenses, Bank Loan Amortisation]
• Marketing Strategy
• Risk Analysis
• SWOT & PEST Analysis
• Operational Requirements
• Operational Strategy
• Why some South Africans in that type of business fail, so that you can avoid their mistakes
• Ways to raise capital to start your business in South Africa

All our agriculture pre-written business plans include technical aspects of how to keep and rear the animals / farm the crops. They also include a mini-directory with contacts which will prove to be helpful in launching and running the business. E.g. for broiler poultry we will provide the contact details for South African suppliers of feeds, equipment, day old chicks, abattoirs, training companies etc)

The Business plan package consist of 4 files

• Business Plan – PDF file (Comprehensive – Between 70-105 pages)
• Business Plan – Editable Word File (Comprehensive – Between 70-105 pages)
• Business Plan Funding Version – Editable Word File (Short version for applying for a loan – between 35-50 pages)
• Business Plan Automated Financial Statements – (Editable Excel file)

The financial statements are automated. This implies that you can change an item eg unit price, and all the other financial statements will automatically adjust to reflect the change.

About The Author

BizBolts (Pty) Ltd is a business research company based in Johannesburg, South Africa. We sell prewritten business plans for various industries including livestock production, crop farming and retail businesses. BizBolts also publishes articles on business ideas, business news, business tips, personal finance, and entrepreneur profiles.

Related Posts

Starting Auto Spare Parts Store Business in South Africa – Business Plan (PDF, Word & Excel)

December 21, 2022

Starting a Laundry Business in South Africa – Business Plan (PDF, Word & Excel)

Starting Tomato Farming Business in South Africa – Business Plan (PDF, Word & Excel)

November 10, 2023

Starting Trucking Business In South Africa – Business Plan (PDF, Word & Excel)

December 9, 2022

Follow Us On Facebook

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team.

You have Successfully Subscribed!

• Home  / 
• Blog  / 
• Business Planning  / 

Download a Free Business Plan Template

What is a business plan.

The written plan of goals you want to achieve with your business, and how you want to achieve them, is called a business plan. It is a decision-making tool used when beginning or extending a venture.

Any new business requires a business plan to ensure that the business can make a profit. Fund-seeking entrepreneurs use a formal business plan to convince investors to contribute towards the capital of the business.

Existing businesses – looking to expand or change the business – also use business plans to prospect for new business, attract key employees or deal with suppliers. By revising their business plan regularly, existing companies can devise strategies to manage their companies better.

Most commonly, a business plan is used to apply for a bank loan to fund a business. To learn how to create a business plan for a bank in South Africa, see FNB and Standard Bank’s business plan guidelines. You can also download Standard Bank’s free business plan template in Word or PDF format.

A business plan consists of three primary parts:

• The business concept – details about the industry, the structure of the business, the product or service and the strategy for the success of the business.
• The marketplace section – an analytical description of potential customers and the strategy for achieving success against competitors.
• The financial section – the income and cash flow statement, balance sheet and other financial information.

The length of a business plan varies depending on the nature of the business and the purpose of the business plan. Typically, a business plan is 15 to 20 pages long. It usually details the goals for the business for the next three to five years.

An important part of compiling a business plan is in-depth research into the market and industry. Try to gain as much insight into the market you are targeting by talking to business owners, suppliers, potential customers, existing customers, staff members, business experts, etc. Also, research the industry online.

Business plan format

Although there are several types, the key components of all business plans are essentially the same. The format varies based on who the intended reader of the business plan is. Here is an example of a standard business plan format:

1. Table of Contents (1 page)

The table of contents page should include the correct page numbers of the sections of the business plan. Therefore, it is best to write this page last. In addition to the table of contents page, the plan must also have a cover and a title page.

2.  Executive Summary (2 pages)

The purpose of the executive summary of a business plan is to entice the reader to read the rest of the plan. The executive summary is an overview of the key aspects of the plan. It should be compelling but also concise.

The executive summary should include:

• the business concept (a description of the business, product, market and target market);
• key financial aspects (sales, profits, cash flows, investment returns and capital requirements); and
• a short company overview (type of company, date formed, owners and key personnel and achievements).

3. Company Overview (1 – 2 pages)

This section is a high-level overview of the company and the industry in which it operates. It is a description of the business, the product and the industry.

The following should be included in the company overview:

• The name of the company and the type of ownership and registration;
• Details about the business location (address, zoning, reason for choosing location, monthly rentals, etc.)
• Significant assets and financial contributions to the business;
• The mission statement of the business;
• Company objectives and goals;
• The main features of the industry in which the business will operate;
• The most important company strengths and core competencies;
• An explanation of the product, target market and profitability of the plan.

4. The Opportunity, Industry and Market Description (2 – 3 pages)

The research you conducted will come into play in this section. This section offers a detailed explanation of the market and industry and the business’ position therein.

They key is to determine who your target market is through a market analysis. Then clearly explain how your products/services will fulfil the needs of your target market. A market analysis also helps to determine pricing, distribution strategies and growth potential within the industry.

Describe the following:

• The opportunity – the gap in the market;
• The industry – the forces affecting the industry (i.e. obstacles to entry, customers, suppliers, substitute products and competition); and
• The market – insights into the target market (i.e. size, growth and trends).

5. Strategy (1-2 pages)

Detail your positioning strategy and how the business will compete in the chosen market. In other words, what is unique about your product/service and how will the target market benefit from what you have to offer.

6. Business Model Explanation (1 page)

The business model depicts how the business will make money/profit. A business model covers the following aspects:

• Sources of revenue;
• Costs involved in generating the revenue;
• The profitability of the business (revenue minus costs);
• The investment required to get the business up and running; and
• Success factors and assumptions for making the profit model work.

7. Management and Organisation (2 pages)

The biographies of the members of your management team and their roles in the business. Who will be responsible for running the business and why are they well-suited to the task?

This section should include:

• The founders of the company and their qualifications and experience;
• The day-to-day management team and their individual competencies and responsibilities;
• The type of support staff needed to run the business; and
• An organisational chart to show the management hierarchy.

8. Marketing Plan (2 – 3 pages)

The marketing plan is a comprehensive explanation of your marketing strategy. In other words, how will you sell your service/product to your target market?

Your marketing plan should include:

• The value of your product/service to customers;
• A detailed description of the target market;
• How you want your target market to perceive your product/service;
• The pricing strategy for the product/service;
• Sales and distribution channels that will be used to get the product/service to the customer; and
• The promotion strategy (budget, public relations activities, promotions, advertising, etc.).

9. Operational Plan (2 pages)

The operational plan is a description of how the business will function. Include a description of the following:

• The operating cycle – how the business will deliver the service or create and sell the product;
• How skills and materials will be sourced;
• Which tasks will be outsourced and how business relationships will be managed; and
• The cash payment cycle of the business.

10. Financial Plan (3 – 5 pages)

A very important part of any business plan is the financial plan. It is a reasonable projection of the company’s financial future.

A good financial plan will determine how much capital the business needs to launch and/or grow. This section is especially important to potential investors and banks – who will determine the odds for the continued survival of the company based on this information.

A financial plan should include:

• Start-up expenses and capital: What it would cost to start/grow the company and how the money will be generated.
• Profit and loss projections/income statement : Financial sales and expenses projections (i.e. income, cost of goods, gross profit margin, net profit, total expenses, etc.).
• Cash flow projection: Reflects how much cash will be needed to cover expenses and when it will be needed. The cash flow projection amounts to a profit or loss at the end of each month or year.
• A balance sheet: A summary of the business’ equity, assets and liabilities.
• A break-even calculation

Income statements and cash flow projections must be generated for every month of the first year, every quarter of the second year and annually for every year thereafter. The balance sheet is only generated on an annual basis.

Short summaries of the analyses of the income statement, cash flow projection and balance sheet must also be included. Do not include too much detail in this section. Additional projections, charts and calculations must be added to the Appendix.

11. Appendix

Additional reference documents are included in the appendix. This could include:

• Brochures and advertising materials;
• Industry studies and market research;
• Plans and blueprints;
• Photos and maps of location;
• Magazine or other articles;
• Detailed lists of equipment owned or to be purchased;
• Copies of leases and contracts;
• Letters of support from future customers;
• List of assets available as collateral for a loan; and/or
• Detailed financial calculations and projections.

Find more business plan examples and templates from Entrepreneur Magazine .

Related Documents

Download a Free Research Proposal Template

Download a Free Project Plan Template

Download a Free Competitor Analysis Template

Download a Free Gap Analysis Template

Download a Free SWOT Analysis Template

Download a Business Case Template

Download a Budget Template (Excel)

Download a Marketing Plan Template

Download a Free Business Proposal Template

Download a Free Company Profile Template

Download an Organogram Template (Organisational Chart)

New Company Types:

• New Pty Company (Most Popular)
• Holding Company

Non Profits:

• NPO Registration
• NPC Registration
• NGO Registration

Industry Specific:

• Construction Company
• Cleaning Company
• Security Company
• Transport Company
• Mauritius Company Registration

Shelf Company:

• Buy Urgent Shelf Company
• Shelf Company Advantages
• CC Registration

Discounted Package Types:

• Tender Packages
• Construction & Building Packages
• Industry Specific Packages
• All Packages

Pre-Registered Companies

Sars / tax services.

• Tax Registration
• Tax Clearance Certificate
• VAT Registration
• UIF / PAYE / SDL Registration
• Import / Export Number
• SARS Registered Representative

Find The Right Service For You:

• All Services - Quick Search

SARS / Tax Services:

Workmans compensation:.

• COID Registration
• Letter of Good Standing
• Return of Earnings
• UIF Registration (Department of Labour)

Construction / Security Compliance:

• CIDB Registration
• NHBRC Registration
• PSIRA Registrations

Tender Documents:

• BEE Affidavit / Certificate
• CSD Registration
• Business Plan
• Company Profile

Accounting Services:

• Tax Returns Submissions
• Monthly Tax Maintenance
• Monthly Accounting
• Monthly Payroll

CIPC Services:

• Annual Returns
• Beneficial Ownership
• Company Amendments
• Shares Management
• CC to Pty Conversions
• Retrieve Company Documents
• Deregister or Re-Instate Your Company
• Co-op Registration
• Trademark Registration
• POPI Compliance Certificate
• Website Hosting
• ITAC Permit
• Name Search

Everything About Us & More:

• Learn More About Us
• Our Online System
• Testimonials
• Videos and Brochures
• In the Media

Our Premium Value:

• Value Added Services
• Business FAQ's

Company Registration at CIPC, SARS, COID, CUSTOMS, CIDB & More Get Compliant from Anywhere, Easy and Fast!

Business Plan in 1-Week

Our business plan specialist will setup your business plan for funding and tenders within 1 week. starting @ r3490 once-off, register now or get free consultation.

You will be assisted by our  Business Plan Specialist , registered with the NSBC (National Small Business Chamber of South Africa). Our professional Small Business Plans comply with SEDA, SEFA, Dti, NEF, IDC, and Private Financial Institutes and Bank Requirements in South Africa. We have completed over 1000 Business Plans since 2013 – and consulted numerous Start-ups and Companies in South Africa. To start the process, apply on this page below or call our toll-free number 0800 007 269  for free consultation.

Our Premium Service Advantages

The business plan services will:.

• Give you focus, direction and a clear plan to follow.
• Help you stay compliant with certain Government regulating bodies. For example PSIRA.
• Enable you to apply for outside financing / funding.

Find the right plan for you

Our Business Plan & Consultation Packages will support you to align with South African industry standards.

Small Business Plan

• 20 - 30 Pages
• Professional Business Plan Layout
• 12-Month Financial Projections*
• Market Analysis & Customer Segmentation
• Industry Analysis & Trends
• Competitor Analysis
• Business Model Description
• Competitive Advantage & Unique Selling Points
• Professional SWOT Analysis (Strengths and Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats)

Specialised Business Plan

• 60 - 80 Pages
• Specialised Business Plan Layout
• 5-Year Financial Projections
• In-Depth Market Research
• TAM (Total Addressable Market)
• WTP (Customer Willing to Pay)
• MRS (Market Revenue Size)
• In-Depth Business Model Analysis.
• In-Depth Business Strategy
• In-Depth Marketing & Sales Strategy
• A Competitive Advantage Analysis
• SWOT and PESTEL Analysis

Our Industry Specific Business Plans

Construction business plan.

• Professional Looking Layout
• Construction Market Analysis
• Customer Segmentation
• Construction Industry Analysis
• Construction Industry Trends
• Your Competitive Advantage & Unique Selling Points
• Professional SWOT Analysis

Agriculture Business Plan

• 25 Pages Business Plan
• Agriculture Market Analysis
• Agriculture Industry Analysis
• Agriculture Industry Trends

Cleaning Business Plan

• Cleaning Market Analysis
• Cleaning Industry Analysis
• Cleaning Industry Trends

Security Business Plan

• Security Market Analysis
• Security Industry Analysis
• Security Industry Trends

We Are The Compliance 1-Stop-Shop For SA's Entrepreneurs

What our clients say.

4,5 out of 5 from 322 Google Reviews

FAQ's & Info on Business Plans in South Africa

More faq's & info on our business plans, what is a business plan.

A business plan is a written document that describes and summarises the operational and financial objectives of a business and outlines how it is going to practically achieving its goals.

What are the Main Advantages of a Business Plan?

Firstly, you have a clear plan to follow: Your business plan is your company’s ‘roadmap’ to start with. It will change over the first few months in business, but it gives you focus and direction – which is very important when you start a business.

Secondly, being compliant: Certain governmental regulating bodies or institutions, require your company to have a specific industry related business plan to apply. For example PSIRA.

Lastly, it will enable you to apply for outside financing / funding: Investors want to know exactly what your business will do, who your target market is and if your business is profitable before they will consider your application for business finance or funding.

Do I really need a Business Plan?

Yes, you do. Even if you think you have a clear idea of how you are going to start and develop your business, setting it out on paper forces you to be more objective and attentive to details. It is human nature to tend to be optimistic about future schemes. However, the process of drafting the plans will help you assess whether you have actually taken all relevant factors into account, or your plan’s success depends on outcomes you have no way of assuring.

Isn't a Business Plan necessary if I'm looking for financing?

No. It is a mistake to think that business plans are just something to give an investor looking for assurances that your business has a good chance of turning a profit. The benefits of a business plan are primarily for you, the owner. At the onset of your venture, a comprehensive plan will help you get a realistic picture of your capabilities and viable strategies. As your business continues to grow, your plan will help you assess whether you are meeting your goals, or a change of direction is needed.

Will I get funding?

Our business plan writer:.

Our Head Business Plan Writer is Brend Badenhorst – a SETA Business Facilitator. He has written over 500 Plans for new and existing businesses. He has a team of dedicated Business Plan Consultants who will guide you through the process to setup the correct Plan for your Company.

Our Business Plans are designed according to the regulations of:

• Finance / Funding Institutes in South Africa.
• South African Banks (FNB / Standard bank / Nedbank / ABSA). We are Official Partners of Nedbank.

• South African and Government Tenders / Contracts.
• The National Industry Regulator.

Apply above to speak to a Business Specialist today!

What is the difference between a Business Plan and a Company Profile?

Your objective with a Company Profile is to provide an overview of your organization. A biography emphasizes professional and personal achievements. A Business Plan contains marketing, sales, and operations strategies.

Do Business Plans Need to Include Visual Elements?

While not mostly visual, incorporating graphics like charts and images in certain sections can significantly enhance a business plan’s effectiveness. At Company Partners, we value the impact of a visually appealing plan. By integrating graphs, charts, and pertinent images, we help convey key data and strategies, ensuring your business plan is both engaging and informative.

What is the Cost of a Professional Business Plan?

The cost varies based on your approach – whether you’re crafting it yourself or enlisting professional help like Company Partners. We offer customized services to fit various budgets, emphasizing quality and strategic insight. A professionally developed plan for a small business, around 20+ pages, typically costs R3490.

How To Write A Business Plan?

Begin by defining your business idea, conducting thorough market research, and outlining your marketing and operational strategies. If organizing these elements seems daunting, consider utilizing quality free templates online. Company Partners also offers examples and guidance, ensuring your plan is comprehensive and tailored for the South African market. . You can also view the Company Partners example to act as a guide you through this process.

What are the characteristics of a Strong Business Plan?

A good plan is clear, concise, and detailed, with a strong emphasis on market analysis and financial projections. The professionals which view your business plan to make a decision whether to invest or fund you needs to have a clear picture of your trajectory and if their investment/money will be well spent. Company Partners ensures that your plan is adaptable and strategically aligned with your business goals.

What is the Role of a Business Plan Consultant?

A consultant, like those at Company Partners, specializes in assisting businesses to create strategic and effective business plans. The specialist consultants have years of experience through working in companies to give them an in-depth understanding of how it works. Our experts bring this in-depth knowledge of market trends and financial modelling into the writing process.

Hiring Professional Help for Business Plan Writing, is it worth it?

Is incorporating a swot analysis in business plans important, most popular services.

Company Registration Shelf Company Packages

Download Our Brochures

Premium Packages Service List Our Company Profile Why Use Us

Quick Links

Free Company Name Search Book Free Consultation Session Company Registration Guide Pty Registration for Foreigners Retrieve Company Documents View All Services About Us Terms of Use Privacy Policy

Useful Links

CIPC DTI SARS Department of Labour Government Tenders

Monday-Thursday: 8:30am to 5pm Friday: 8:30am to 3pm Saturday & Sunday: Closed Public Holidays: Closed

Payment Methods

Our Socials

Copyright © 2006-2024 Company Partners (Pty) Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

Your Business Plan from Anywhere – Fast and Easy!

Your Business Plan Partners

Professionally written Business Plans for Funding, Tenders and Industry Regulators.

Our Business Plan Writing Services

Business Plan standards align with South Africa’s Top Financial Institutions including the DTi, all banks, and more.

Entry Level Business Plan

Specialised business plan, our industry specific business plans.

All priced at only R4490.

Construction Business Plan

Security business plan, agriculture business plan, cleaning company, our business plans comply with seda, sefa, dti, nef, idc, private financial institutes and bank requirements in sa.

Advantages of our Business Plan Services:

1. seda, sefa, dti, nef, idc compliant.

Our Business Plans aren't just documents; they're your ticket to compliance with major South African institutions, including the Banks.

2. Expert Help

With over 500 Business Plans completed, our Business Plan Specialist provide expert Business Plan assistance. Our inhouse Accountants accredited with Sait, Saiba and CIMA , can also assist to sign-off of your financials for big contract or funding applications. *Optional - additional fees apply.

3. More than Just a Plan

From market analysis to financial projections, our plans are comprehensive, ensuring you're prepared for every business challenge.

50 000+ Clients assisted since 2006

Business Plan Partners is a dedicated division within Company Partners.

We are your trusted partner in business plan development, having assisted over 50,000 South African Entrepreneurs since 2006 in their business journeys.

Specialising in crafting meticulous business plans, our guiding principle is “Plan, Strategise, Achieve”. We support South African entrepreneurs by crafting detailed business plans, transforming initial ideas into structured and coherent strategies for potential growth and funding application.

Being the experts in multiple industries, our business plans comply for with all industry regulators in South Africa.

What our Clients say!

4,5 out of 5 from 322 Google Reviews

Over 1000 testimonials and counting. Click here to view more

Register Now OR Get Free Consultation

Frequently asked questions, is a business plan essential.

Why is a business plan essential for my start-up or existing business. A business plan serves as a blueprint for your venture, detailing your business objectives, strategies, and financial projections. It not only provides direction but also enhances credibility when seeking funding or partnerships. With Business Plan Partners, you benefit from our vast experience in crafting business plans tailored to South African standards, ensuring your venture’s success.

How can a business plan help me secure funding?

Lenders and investors often require a comprehensive business plan to understand your business’s viability and potential for returns. A well-structured plan, like those crafted by Business Plan Partners, showcases your business’s strengths, market positioning, and growth strategy, increasing your chances of securing the necessary funds.

I'm not well-versed in financial jargon. Will I understand the financial projections in the business plan?

Absolutely! At Business Plan Partners, we pride ourselves on creating business plans that are both professional and easy to understand. We break down complex financial data into digestible insights, ensuring you’re well-equipped to make informed decisions.

How does a business plan from Business Plan Partners differ from generic templates online?

Generic templates often provide a one-size-fits-all approach. In contrast, Business Plan Partners offers bespoke business plans tailored to your unique business needs and objectives. Our plans are compliant with major South African institutions, ensuring they’re not just documents but strategic tools for success.

Can a business plan assist in identifying potential challenges and opportunities in my market?

Indeed, it can. A robust business plan includes a thorough market analysis, highlighting potential challenges and untapped opportunities. With Business Plan Partners, you gain insights derived from our extensive experience in various industries, helping you navigate the South African business landscape effectively.

How often should I update my business plan?

A business plan isn’t a static document. It should evolve as your business grows and the market changes. Regular updates, especially after significant milestones or changes in the market, ensure your plan remains relevant. With Business Plan Partners by your side, you have a trusted partner to guide you through these updates, ensuring your business remains on the path to success. However, using our service for updates is entirely optional and not a mandatory requirement for a business plan.

What standards do our Business Plans adhere to?

Our Business Plans are crafted to meet the criteria set by:

• Finance / Funding Institutes in South Africa.
• South African Banks (FNB / Standard bank / Nedbank / ABSA). We are Official Partners of Nedbank.
• South African and Government Tenders / Contracts.
• The National Industry Regulator.

Apply above to speak to a Business Specialist today!

Will a Business Plan guarantee Funding?

While a well-crafted business plan significantly improves your chances of securing funding, it’s essential to understand that we cannot guarantee funding. Our role is to equip you with a comprehensive and compelling business plan, which is a crucial document for funding applications.

However, many other factors, such as market conditions, the viability of your business model, creditworthiness, and the specific criteria set by funding institutions, influence the final decision. What we can ensure is that with our expertise, your business plan will present your vision and strategy in the best light possible, bolstering your case when you approach lenders or investors.

Our Socials

Quick links.

Our Packages About Us Contact Us Terms & Conditions

Download Our Brochures

Discounted Packages Service List Our Company Profile Why Use Us

Monday-Thursday: 8:30am to 5pm Friday: 8:30am to 3pm Saturday & Sunday: Closed Public Holidays: Closed

Payment Methods