Preparing a business plan is perhaps the most important step you will take in starting or expanding any small business. The business plan will provide you with goals and objectives to work towards. It also makes you take an in-depth look at the business you are considering starting.

Available for download is a Business Plan Outline, developed by our partner, the Lanark - North Leeds Enterprise Centre. This business planning form will give you an idea of the areas of your business that require planning detail, however, it is meant only as a guideline to assist you with preparation of your business plan. Remember that simply filling out the form is not as important as the research and planning that go into completing a thorough business plan.

An Interactive Business Planner  from the Government of Canada is also available on-line to assist entrepreneurs to prepare a 3 year business plan for their new or existing business.