National Month

National Write a Business Plan Month

Why it matters

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GET INSPIRED

This month is a time to transform your ideas into reality.

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━━━━ FAST FACTS ━━━━
WHEN
January
ORIGIN
Established in 2008 by the U.S. Small Business Administration
STAT
Businesses with a plan are 2.5 times more likely to succeed.
STAT
Only 30% of small businesses have a formal business plan.
VIBE
Supportive and resourceful atmosphere for creativity.
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THE STORY

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January is not just a time for New Year’s resolutions—it is also National Write a Business Plan Month. Established in 2008 by the U.S. Small Business Administration, this month serves as an opportunity for entrepreneurs to focus on a critical element of business success: the business plan. A well-structured business plan can illuminate the path forward, helping to clarify goals, identify potential challenges, and outline strategies for overcoming them.

The importance of a business plan cannot be overstated. According to data from the U.S. Small Business Administration, businesses that have a formal plan are 2.5 times more likely to succeed than those that do not. This statistic underscores the value of taking the time to develop a comprehensive plan that details every aspect of your business, from market analysis to financial projections.

Whether you are a seasoned business owner or just starting out, National Write a Business Plan Month encourages all individuals to evaluate their entrepreneurial aspirations. This month is an invitation to connect with the local business community, attend workshops, and seek mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs who can provide valuable insights into the planning process.

As you embark on this journey, remember that a business plan is not just a document; it is a living, breathing guide that evolves as your business grows. Take advantage of this month to refine your vision, set clear objectives, and ultimately, enhance your chances of success in the ever-competitive marketplace.

A goal without a plan is just a wish.

— ANTOINE DE SAINT-EXUPéRY
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WORTH KNOWING

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#1
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Set Your Goals

Identify what you want to achieve this month.

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Draft Your Plan

Outline your business ideas clearly.

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Seek Feedback

Share your plan with mentors or peers.

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Launch Your Vision

Take the first steps towards your business goals.

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AROUND THE WORLD

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🇺🇸 North America

United States

Home to the initiative’s origin.

🇨🇦 North America

Canada

Encouraging entrepreneurs in every province.

🇬🇧 Europe

United Kingdom

A growing community of business planners.

🇦🇺 Oceania

Australia

Supporting startups with structured plans.

🇩🇪 Europe

Germany

Emphasizing the importance of planning.

🇳🇿 Oceania

New Zealand

Fostering innovation through business planning.

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DID YOU KNOW?!

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TRIVIA

Business Plans and Success
Only 30% of small businesses have a formal business plan.

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Planning for Growth
A business plan can help attract investors.

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Evolution of Plans
Plans should be revisited and updated regularly.

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SBA Resources
The U.S. Small Business Administration offers free templates.

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International Observance
Other countries also celebrate business planning initiatives.

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Community Impact
Local workshops can provide networking opportunities.

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Entrepreneurship Statistics
70% of startups fail due to lack of planning.

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READ MORE

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ENTREPRENEURSHIP

The Lean Startup

Eric Ries

A guide to innovative business planning.

BUSINESS STRATEGY

Business Model Generation

Alexander Osterwalder

A hands-on guide for practitioners.

FINANCE

The Personal MBA

Josh Kaufman

Essential knowledge for business success.

PLANNING

The Art of the Start

Guy Kawasaki

A roadmap for starting a business.

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PAIR IT WITH

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📊
RESEARCH

Understand your market.

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IDEAS

Brainstorm solutions and offerings.

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TIMELINE

Set deadlines for each stage.

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DIRECTION

Keep your business on track.

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Plan Your Business

Join the celebration of National Write a Business Plan Month and start crafting your path to success today.

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