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Graphic Design Business Plan Template

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Here is a free business plan sample for a graphic design services.

If you're passionate about graphic design and are considering turning your creativity into a career, you've landed on the perfect page.

In the content that follows, we will present you with a comprehensive business plan outline tailored for a graphic design venture.

As you might be aware, a strategic business plan is crucial for any aspiring entrepreneur. It serves as a roadmap, guiding you through establishing your brand, setting clear objectives, and outlining your approach to attract clients and grow your business.

To jumpstart your journey, you can utilize our graphic designer business plan template. Our team is also on standby to provide a free review and offer feedback on your completed plan.

How to draft a great business plan for your graphic design services?

A good business plan for a graphic designer must reflect the unique aspects of the creative services industry.

To start, it's important to provide a comprehensive overview of the design market. This includes current statistics and identifying emerging trends within the industry, similar to what we've incorporated in our graphic design business plan template .

Your business plan should articulate your vision clearly. Define your niche (such as logo design, branding, web design, etc.), identify your target market (startups, small businesses, large corporations, individual clients), and establish your unique value proposition (customized solutions, quick turnaround, specific design expertise).

Market analysis is a critical component. This means understanding your competitors, staying abreast of design trends, and knowing your potential clients' needs and preferences.

For a graphic designer, it's essential to showcase your portfolio. Detail the range of services you offer - from print to digital design - and demonstrate how these services can solve the problems or meet the needs of your target audience.

The operational plan should outline your work environment, whether it's a home office or a rented studio space, your hardware and software setup, and your process for managing projects and client communications.

Quality of work is paramount in graphic design. Emphasize your design process, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering high-quality, impactful designs.

Discuss your marketing and sales strategy. How will you build your brand and attract new clients? Consider your promotional tactics, networking strategies, and client retention plans.

Having a digital strategy, including a professional website and an active presence on platforms like Instagram or Behance, is crucial for showcasing your work and reaching potential clients.

The financial section is vital. It should cover your pricing model, sales projections, operational expenses, and the point at which your business will become profitable.

As a graphic designer, your income may vary based on project size and frequency, so it's important to have a clear financial plan. For assistance, you can refer to our financial forecast for graphic designers .

Compared to other business plans, a graphic design plan must focus more on intellectual property rights, portfolio development, and client acquisition strategies.

A well-crafted business plan will not only help you clarify your business strategy but also attract clients or secure financing.

Lenders and investors are interested in a solid market analysis, realistic financial projections, and a clear understanding of how you will manage your design projects and client relationships.

By presenting a detailed and substantiated plan, you show your professionalism and dedication to the success of your graphic design business.

To achieve these goals efficiently, you can fill out our graphic design business plan template .

A free example of business plan for a graphic design services

Here, we will provide a concise and illustrative example of a business plan for a specific project.

This example aims to provide an overview of the essential components of a business plan. It is important to note that this version is only a summary. As it stands, this business plan is not sufficiently developed to support a profitability strategy or convince a bank to provide financing.

To be effective, the business plan should be significantly more detailed, including up-to-date market data, more persuasive arguments, a thorough market study, a three-year action plan, as well as detailed financial tables such as a projected income statement, projected balance sheet, cash flow budget, and break-even analysis.

All these elements have been thoroughly included by our experts in the business plan template they have designed for a graphic designer .

Here, we will follow the same structure as in our business plan template.

Market Opportunity

Market data and figures.

The graphic design industry is a dynamic and evolving field with significant impact on various sectors.

Recent estimates value the global graphic design market at over $45 billion, with expectations for continued growth as businesses increasingly rely on visual content to communicate with their audiences.

In the United States alone, there are over 250,000 graphic design businesses, contributing to an annual revenue of approximately $15 billion for the industry.

These figures underscore the critical role of graphic designers in branding, marketing, and multimedia industries, highlighting their economic importance.

The graphic design landscape is shaped by several emerging trends and technological advancements.

Minimalism continues to dominate design preferences, with a focus on simplicity and clean lines. This is complemented by bold typography and vibrant color schemes that capture attention.

There is a growing emphasis on personalized and custom graphics, as businesses seek to stand out in a crowded marketplace with unique visual identities.

Advancements in design software and tools, such as virtual reality and augmented reality, are opening new avenues for immersive and interactive designs.

Additionally, the rise of social media platforms has led to an increased demand for engaging and shareable graphic content.

Environmental consciousness is also influencing design choices, with a push towards sustainable practices and materials in print design.

These trends reflect the graphic design industry's adaptability and its role in shaping how businesses and individuals communicate visually in the digital age.

Success Factors

Several factors contribute to the success of a graphic designer or design firm.

First and foremost, the ability to produce high-quality, innovative designs that effectively communicate a client's message is paramount.

Creativity and a strong understanding of design principles are essential for delivering compelling visual content.

Staying current with the latest design software and technologies can provide a competitive edge and enable designers to offer cutting-edge solutions.

Networking and building strong relationships with clients and other industry professionals can lead to referrals and repeat business.

Excellent customer service and the ability to work within deadlines and budgets are also critical for client satisfaction and retention.

Ultimately, a graphic designer's success hinges on their ability to adapt to industry trends, manage projects efficiently, and consistently deliver designs that resonate with target audiences.

The Project

Project presentation.

Our graphic design venture is tailored to cater to the increasing need for professional and creative visual communication solutions. Situated in a vibrant business district or operating online, this service will offer a comprehensive suite of graphic design services, including branding, logo design, marketing materials, web design, and more, all crafted with a keen eye for detail and contemporary aesthetics.

The emphasis will be on delivering bespoke, impactful, and visually compelling designs that resonate with the target audience and enhance our clients' brand identity.

This graphic design initiative aims to become a go-to resource for businesses and individuals alike, seeking to elevate their visual presence in a competitive market.

Value Proposition

The value proposition of our graphic design service is centered around providing innovative and personalized design solutions that effectively communicate our clients' brand message.

Our dedication to artistic excellence, strategic thinking, and customer satisfaction offers a transformative visual experience, while supporting the marketing goals and brand recognition of our clients.

We are committed to fostering a collaborative environment where clients feel understood and valued, and aim to educate them on the importance of professional design in achieving business success.

Our graphic design service strives to be a cornerstone for clients, delivering not just designs, but a visual language that speaks directly to their audience and distinguishes them from the competition.

Project Owner

The project owner is a seasoned graphic designer with a passion for visual storytelling and a knack for translating ideas into compelling design concepts.

With a background in graphic design and a portfolio that showcases a wide range of successful projects, they are poised to create a graphic design service that is renowned for its creativity, client-focused approach, and ability to deliver results.

Driven by a mission to empower brands through design, they are committed to staying ahead of industry trends and leveraging their expertise to provide clients with cutting-edge visual solutions.

Their dedication to the craft of design and their desire to make a lasting impact on clients' businesses are the driving forces behind this venture, aiming to set a new standard in the graphic design landscape.

The Market Study

Target market.

The target market for a graphic design business can be segmented into various groups.

Firstly, there are small to medium-sized businesses in need of branding, marketing materials, and digital design services to establish and maintain their market presence.

Secondly, individual entrepreneurs and professionals who require personal branding and promotional designs to enhance their visibility and credibility in their respective fields.

Additionally, the market includes larger corporations seeking to outsource creative projects, such as annual reports, corporate identity packages, and advertising campaigns.

Lastly, other potential clients include non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and event planners looking for design services for campaigns, events, and informational materials.

SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis for a graphic design business might highlight the following:

Strengths could include a strong portfolio showcasing a wide range of design skills, a well-established network of clients, and a reputation for creativity and timely delivery.

Weaknesses might involve the challenge of staying updated with the latest design software and trends, or the potential for workload fluctuations due to project-based work.

Opportunities could arise from the growing need for digital design with the increase in online businesses, as well as the potential to expand services to include web design and social media management.

Threats may include intense competition from other freelance designers and design agencies, as well as the need to continuously adapt to changing design technologies and client preferences.

Competitor Analysis

Competitor analysis for a graphic design business shows a diverse and competitive landscape.

Direct competitors include other freelance graphic designers and design agencies that offer similar services.

These competitors vie for clients by showcasing their design expertise, client testimonials, and portfolio quality.

Competitive advantages may be found in specialized design services, niche market expertise, strong client relationships, and a unique creative approach.

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of these competitors is crucial for carving out a unique market position and developing client acquisition and retention strategies.

Competitive Advantages

The competitive advantages of a graphic design business may revolve around personalized service and a unique design aesthetic.

Offering tailored design solutions that align with a client's brand identity and business goals can set a designer apart from competitors.

Additionally, staying abreast of design trends and incorporating innovative techniques can enhance the appeal of the services offered.

Building a reputation for reliability, effective communication, and exceeding client expectations can foster long-term relationships and lead to repeat business and referrals.

Transparency in the design process and clear pricing structures also contribute to building trust and satisfaction among clients.

You can also read our articles about: - how to offer graphic design services: a complete guide - the customer segments of a graphic design services - the competition study for a graphic design services

The Strategy

Development plan.

Our three-year development plan for the graphic design business is designed to be dynamic and responsive to the evolving market.

In the first year, we will concentrate on building a robust portfolio and establishing a strong online presence to attract a diverse client base.

The second year will be focused on expanding our services to include branding packages, web design, and digital marketing, thereby offering a comprehensive suite of design solutions to our clients.

In the third year, we aim to collaborate with advertising agencies and corporate clients to secure larger projects and recurring contracts.

Throughout this period, we will prioritize staying ahead of design trends, investing in cutting-edge software, and continuously improving our technical skills to deliver exceptional value to our clients.

Business Model Canvas

The Business Model Canvas for our graphic design business targets entrepreneurs, small businesses, and corporations in need of professional visual content.

Our value proposition is centered on delivering high-quality, custom design work that effectively communicates our clients' brand messages.

We offer our services through various online platforms, utilizing key resources such as our design software, creative expertise, and a network of professional contacts.

Key activities include client consultations, design creation, project management, and ongoing client support.

Our revenue streams are generated from project-based fees, retainer agreements, and design service packages, while our costs are mainly associated with software subscriptions, marketing, and professional development.

Access a detailed and editable real Business Model Canvas in our business plan template .

Marketing Strategy

Our marketing strategy is built on showcasing our design expertise and building relationships with clients.

We plan to create a strong portfolio that demonstrates our range of skills and past successes. This will be complemented by testimonials and case studies to build credibility.

Networking events, social media marketing, and collaborations with influencers in the design community will help us reach a wider audience.

We will also offer free resources, such as design tips and templates, to engage potential clients and position ourselves as thought leaders in the industry.

Risk Policy

The risk policy for our graphic design business focuses on mitigating risks associated with client acquisition, project delivery, and data security.

We will implement clear contracts to define project scopes and deliverables, ensuring client expectations are managed effectively.

Regular data backups and adherence to cybersecurity best practices will protect our work and client information.

Cost management strategies will be in place to maintain financial stability, and professional indemnity insurance will cover any potential legal issues related to our design work.

Our commitment is to provide high-quality design services while safeguarding our business and our clients' interests.

Why Our Project is Viable

We are confident in the viability of our graphic design business due to the ever-increasing demand for professional visual content across all sectors.

With a focus on creativity, client satisfaction, and adaptability, we are well-positioned to capture market share and build a reputable brand.

We are enthusiastic about the opportunity to enhance our clients' visual communication strategies while growing a sustainable and innovative design business.

We remain flexible to industry changes and client needs, and we are excited about the future prospects of our graphic design venture.

You can also read our articles about: - the Business Model Canvas of a graphic design services - the marketing strategy for a graphic design services

The Financial Plan

Of course, the text presented below is far from sufficient to serve as a solid and credible financial analysis for a bank or potential investor. They expect specific numbers, financial statements, and charts demonstrating the profitability of your project.

All these elements are available in our business plan template for a graphic designer and our financial plan for a graphic designer .

Initial expenses for our graphic design business include investing in high-quality design software, powerful computing equipment to handle complex design tasks, setting up a professional website portfolio, acquiring licenses for stock images and fonts, and costs related to brand creation and launching targeted marketing campaigns to reach potential clients.

Our revenue assumptions are based on a thorough analysis of the market demand for graphic design services, considering the importance of strong visual branding for businesses and the increasing need for digital content.

We anticipate a steady growth in client acquisition, starting modestly and expanding as our portfolio and reputation in the graphic design industry strengthen.

The projected income statement indicates expected revenues from our design services, production costs (software subscriptions, design assets), and operating expenses (workspace rent, marketing, salaries for any support staff, etc.).

This results in a forecasted net profit essential for assessing the profitability of our graphic design venture over time.

The projected balance sheet reflects assets specific to our business, such as design software, hardware, and any pre-paid subscriptions, and liabilities including debts and anticipated expenses.

It shows the overall financial health of our graphic design business at the end of each period.

Our projected cash flow budget details incoming and outgoing cash flows, allowing us to anticipate our cash needs at any given time. This will enable us to manage our finances effectively and avoid cash flow problems.

The projected financing plan lists the specific financing sources we plan to use to cover our startup expenses.

The working capital requirement for our graphic design business will be closely monitored to ensure we have the necessary liquidity to finance our daily operations, including software subscription fees, marketing efforts, and any outsourced services or staff salaries.

The break-even point specific to our project is the level of sales needed to cover all our costs, including startup expenses, and start making a profit.

It will indicate when our business will become profitable.

Performance indicators we will track include the profit margin rate on our design services, the liquidity ratio to assess our ability to cover short-term financial obligations, and the return on investment to measure the effectiveness of our capital invested in the business.

These indicators will help us evaluate the financial health and overall success of our graphic design business.

If you want to know more about the financial analysis of this type of activity, please read our article about the financial plan for a graphic design services .

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How to Start a Graphic Design Business

Starting a graphic design business can be very profitable. With proper planning, execution and hard work, you can enjoy great success. Below you will learn the keys to launching a successful graphic design business.

Importantly, a critical step in starting a graphic design business is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template here .

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here

14 Steps To Start a Graphic Design Business :

• Choose the Name for Your Graphic Design Business
• Develop Your Graphic Design Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Graphic Design Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Graphic Design Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Graphic Design Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Graphic Design Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Graphic Design Business Equipment
• Develop Your Graphic Design Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Graphic Design Business
• Open for Business

1. Choose the Name for Your Graphic Design Business

The first step to starting a graphic design business is to choose your business’ name.  

This is a very important choice since your company name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your business. Ideally you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for choosing a name for your own graphic design business:

• Make sure the name is available . Check your desired name against trademark databases and your state’s list of registered business names to see if it’s available. Also check to see if a suitable domain name is available.
• Keep it simple . The best names are usually ones that are easy to remember, pronounce and spell.
• Think about marketing . Come up with a name that reflects the desired brand and/or focus of your graphic design business.

2. Develop Your Graphic Design Business Plan

One of the most important steps in starting a graphic design business is to develop your graphic design business plan . The process of creating your plan ensures that you fully understand your market and your business strategy. The plan also provides you with a roadmap to follow and if needed, to present to funding sources to raise capital for your business.

Your business plan should include the following sections:

• Executive Summary – this section should summarize your entire business plan so readers can quickly understand the key details of your own business.
• Company Overview – this section tells the reader about the history of your graphic design business and what type of graphic design business you operate. For example, are you a freelance graphic designer, in-house designer, or a graphic design studio?
• Industry Analysis – here you will document key information about the graphic design industry. Conduct market research and document how big the industry is and what trends are affecting it.
• Customer Analysis – in this section, you will document who your ideal or target customers are and their demographics. For example, how old are they? Where do they live? What do they find important when purchasing services like the ones you will offer?
• Competitive Analysis – here you will document the key direct and indirect competitors you will face and how you will build competitive advantage.
• Marketing Plan – your marketing plan should address the 4Ps: Product, Price, Promotions and Place.
• Product : Determine and document what products/services you will offer 
• Prices : Document the prices of your products/services
• Place : Where will your business be located and how will that location help you increase sales?
• Promotions : What promotional methods will you use to attract customers to your graphic design business? For example, you might decide to use pay-per-click advertising, public relations, search engine optimization and/or social media marketing.
• Operations Plan – here you will determine the key processes you will need to run your day-to-day operations. You will also determine your staffing needs. Finally, in this section of your plan, you will create a projected growth timeline showing the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years.
• Management Team – this section details the background of your company’s management team.
• Financial Plan – finally, the financial plan answers questions including the following:
• What startup costs will you incur?
• How will your graphic design business make money?
• What are your projected sales and expenses for the next five years?
• Do you need to raise funding to launch your business?

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

3. choose the legal structure for your graphic design business.

Next you need to choose a legal structure for your graphic design business and register it and your business name with the Secretary of State in each state where you operate your business.

Below are the five most common legal structures:

1) Sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business entity in which the business owner and the business are the same legal person. The owner of a sole proprietorship is responsible for all debts and obligations of the business. There are no formalities required to establish a sole proprietorship, and it is easy to set up and operate. The main advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is simple and inexpensive to establish. The main disadvantage is that the owner is liable for all debts and obligations of the business.

2) Partnerships

A partnership is a legal structure that is popular among small business owners. It is an agreement between two or more people who want to start a graphic design business together. The partners share in the profits and losses of the business. 

The advantages of a partnership are that it is easy to set up, and the partners share in the profits and losses of the business. The disadvantages of a partnership are that the partners are jointly liable for the debts of the business, and disagreements between partners can be difficult to resolve.

3) Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company, or LLC, is a type of business entity that provides limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners of an LLC are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The advantages of an LLC for a graphic design business include flexibility in management, pass-through taxation (avoids double taxation as explained below), and limited personal liability. The disadvantages of an LLC include lack of availability in some states and self-employment taxes.

4) C Corporation

A C Corporation is a business entity that is separate from its owners. It has its own tax ID and can have shareholders. The main advantage of a C Corporation for a graphic design business is that it offers limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The disadvantage is that C Corporations are subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and the shareholders also pay taxes on their dividends.

5) S Corporation

An S Corporation is a type of corporation that provides its owners with limited liability protection and allows them to pass their business income through to their personal income tax returns, thus avoiding double taxation. There are several limitations on S Corporations including the number of shareholders they can have among others.

Once you register your own business, your state will send you your official “Articles of Incorporation.” You will need this among other documentation when establishing your banking account (see below). We recommend that you consult an attorney in determining which legal structure is best suited for your company.

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4. Secure Startup Funding for Your Graphic Design Business (If Needed)

In developing your graphic design business plan , you might have determined that you need to raise funding to launch your business. 

If so, the main sources of funding for a graphic design business to consider are personal savings, family and friends, credit card financing, bank loans, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to early-stage businesses. Angel investors typically will invest in a graphic design business that they believe has high potential for growth.

5. Secure a Location for Your Business

The first thing to consider when looking for a location for your graphic design business is your target market. You’ll want to find a location that is accessible and convenient for your customers. Additionally, you should consider the cost of rent and other business expenses when choosing a location. It’s important to secure a site that is affordable. 

6. Register Your Graphic Design Business with the IRS

Next, you need to register your business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which will result in the IRS issuing you an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Most banks will require you to have an EIN in order to open up an account. In addition, in order to hire employees, you will need an EIN since that is how the IRS tracks your payroll tax payments.

Note that if you are a sole proprietor without employees, you generally do not need to get an EIN. Rather, you would use your social security number (instead of your EIN) as your taxpayer identification number.

7. Open a Business Bank Account

It is important to establish a bank account in your graphic design business’ name. This process is fairly simple and involves the following steps:

• Identify and contact the bank you want to use
• Gather and present the required documents (generally include your company’s Articles of Incorporation, driver’s license or passport, and proof of address)
• Complete the bank’s application form and provide all relevant information
• Meet with a banker to discuss your business needs and establish a relationship with them

8. Get a Business Credit Card

You should get a business credit card for your graphic design business to help you separate personal and business expenses.

You can either apply for a business credit card through your bank or apply for one through a credit card company.

When you’re applying for a business credit card, you’ll need to provide some information about your business. This includes the name of your business, the address of your business, and the type of business you’re running. You’ll also need to provide some information about yourself, including your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Once you’ve been approved for a business credit card, you’ll be able to use it to make purchases for your business. You can also use it to build your credit history which could be very important in securing loans and getting credit lines for your business in the future.

9. Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits

The licenses and permits you need to start a graphic design business will vary depending on your location. However, some of the most common licenses and permits you may need include a business license, a trade name registration, and a zoning permit.

10. Get Business Insurance for Your Graphic Design Business

There are a few different types of insurance you will need to operate a graphic design business.

Some business insurance policies you should consider for your graphic design business include:

• General liability insurance : This covers accidents and injuries that occur on your property. It also covers damages caused by your employees or products.
• Workers’ compensation insurance : If you have employees, this type of policy works with your general liability policy to protect against workplace injuries and accidents. It also covers medical expenses and lost wages.
• Commercial property insurance : This covers damage to your property caused by fire, theft, or vandalism.
• Business interruption insurance : This covers lost income and expenses if your business is forced to close due to a covered event.
• Professional liability insurance : This protects your business against claims of professional negligence.

Find an insurance agent, tell them about your business and its needs, and they will recommend policies that fit those needs. 

11. Buy or Lease the Right Graphic Design Business Equipment

To start a graphic design business, you will need some basic equipment. This includes a computer, software, printer, and scanner. You may also want to invest in a graphics tablet to help with your design work.

12. Develop Your Graphic Design Business Marketing Materials

Marketing materials will be required to attract and retain customers to your graphic design business.

The key marketing materials you will need are as follows:

• Logo : Spend some time developing a good logo for your graphic design business. Your logo will be printed on company stationery, business cards, marketing materials and so forth. The right logo can increase customer trust and awareness of your brand.
• Website : Likewise, a professional graphic design business website provides prospective clients with information about the services you offer, your company’s history, and contact information. Importantly, remember that the look and feel of your website will affect how customers perceive you.
• Social Media Accounts : establish social media accounts in your company’s name. Accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and/or other social media platforms will help customers and others find and interact with your graphic design business.

13. Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Graphic Design Business

To start a graphic design business, you will need design software. You may also need software for designing websites, creating logos and illustrations, and editing videos. 

14. Open for Business

You are now ready to open your graphic design business. If you followed the steps above, you should be in a great position to build a successful business. Below are answers to frequently asked questions that might further help you.

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How to Start a Graphic Design Business FAQs

Where can i download a graphic design business plan pdf.

You can download our graphic design business plan PDF  here. This is a business plan template you can use in PDF format.

How much does it cost to start a graphic design business?

To start a graphic design business, it will cost approximately $5,000. This includes setting up a basic website and purchasing necessary software. You will also need to factor in the cost of marketing and advertising your new business.

Is it hard to start a graphic design business?

No, it is not hard to start a graphic design business if you have the skills and motivation to get started. There are online resources and tools that can help you learn how to start and grow your business. Additionally, there are a number of online marketplaces where you can sell your designs.

How can I start a graphic design business with no experience?

There are a few ways to start a graphic design business with no experience. One way is to find a mentor to guide you through the process. Another way is to take some online courses or read some books about graphic design. You could also try volunteering for a graphic design company to get some experience.

What type of graphic design business is most profitable?

The type of graphic design business that is most profitable specializes in creating logos and brand identities. This is because there is a high demand for logo and brand design services, and businesses are willing to pay a premium for high-quality work.

What are the ongoing expenses for a graphic design business?

The ongoing expenses for a graphic design business can vary depending on the size of the business and the services offered. Some common expenses include marketing and advertising, website maintenance, software and hardware upgrades, and employee salaries.

How does a graphic design business make money?

A graphic design business usually makes money by charging a fee for services. A freelance graphic design business may also make money by selling products such as fonts, templates, or other design-related items. A graphic design business may also earn revenue through advertising or affiliate marketing.

Is owning a graphic design business profitable?

Yes, owning a graphic design business can be profitable. Graphic designers are in high demand, as businesses increasingly rely on visuals to communicate their messages. In addition, freelance graphic designers often have the flexibility to work from home, which can save on overhead costs. Furthermore, there is a growing trend of businesses outsourcing their graphic design needs, which can provide a steady stream of work for a graphic design business.

Why do graphic design businesses fail?

One of the main reasons graphic design companies fail is because they do not have a clear business plan or strategy. To be successful, you need to have a plan for how you will market your business, find graphic design clients, and keep your existing clients happy. You also need to be realistic about how much revenue you can generate and how much you can afford to spend on marketing and overhead.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

GRAPHIC DESIGN BUSINESS PLAN: 2023 Template & Easy Detailed Guide

• by Kenechukwu Muoghalu
• August 13, 2023
• No comments
• 8 minute read

Table of Contents Hide

What is a business plan in graphic design, what is the importance of a graphic design business plan, how do you write a business plan example, #1. executive summary, #2. company overview, #3. market analysis, #4. competitive analysis, #5. sales and marketing strategy, #6. operational plan, #7. management team, #8. financial plan, #9. appendix, how do i start a graphic design business, how much do i need to start a graphic design business, what type of business is graphic design, what equipment do you need to start a graphic design business, a graphic design business plan template for your company , how do graphic designers find clients, is graphic design profitable, how much should a graphic designer charge, what are the 7 types of graphic design, do you wish to finish your graphic design business plan in 1 day, where is a good place to start when starting a graphic design business, what are some legal aspects to keep in mind when starting your own design business, what skills should i have as a graphic designer.

Graphic design covers a wide range of functions, which include branding, making posters, print advertisements, publications, handbills, or billboards. This description alone will highlight the workload to expect as a graphic designer. Now, to curb these many responsibilities in your company, you will need a graphic design business plan. This article has provided all the necessary information you need to know about a graphic design business plan and how you can create one for your company using our unique template. 

We also have a pre-made graphic design business plan. In any case, you wish to get a business plan today. 

A graphic design business plan is a document that provides a snapshot of your company as it stands and also lays out your future growth plan. This same business plan can help you achieve those mapped-out goals over a given period. As a graphic designer, a business plan will serve as an organizer and companion to help you keep track of every business activity and also stay updated. 

The work of a business plan is to carefully analyze your business goals and strategies while showing you how you can attain them. Even as a startup business, you might need some means of financial assistance to help the growth of your company, and for you to achieve that aim, you will also need a business plan. 

Most times, entrepreneurs fail to embrace the importance of a business plan, but it is almost impossible for you to overlook the essence of a graphic design business plan in any company. Now that you understand the basics and importance of a graphic design business plan for your company, you will learn how to write one using this brief template below. 

To write your graphic design business plan, you can follow the easy-step template that we have provided below. With that template, you can come up with a compelling business plan that your readers will love. If you have trouble composing one, you can choose our pre-made business plan to get your company running.

How to Write a Business Plan for a Graphic Design Company

Writing a business plan does not just come from inspiration. To write a business plan, you will need to follow some processes in order to achieve a professional business plan. These steps include

Your executive summary , being the first section your readers will see, should provide an introduction to your business. The main goal of this section is to engage your reader by explaining the kind of services you offer and how you offer them. You should also include a brief summary of all the sections that will appear in your business plan. Talk about your competitors, marketing, management team, and target market. 

This is where you will give an in-depth explanation of the business. Tell your readers about your company’s history and how you started your graphic design business. You should also specify the type of graphic design business you offer. Is it a publishing graphic design, a website graphic design, a product graphic design, or all? 

Before writing the market analysis of your graphic design business plan, you should research thoroughly on your market. Any information that you provide here should be clear and accurate. It should show your readers how well you understand your market and how you can take advantage of that to make your business grow. You can also include a little information about your customer here and how you intend to serve them well.

Your competitive analysis is also another piece of research that needs to be carried out in your industry. Every business has a competitor, and to get ahead of them, you need to research them to know what they do best. You should also know their strengths and weaknesses. Also, discover how well they serve customers and then include the full details here. Lastly, tell your readers what makes your business unique and special compared to theirs.

A proper marketing plan should cover your product, price, place, and promotion. The essence of formulating a marketing plan is to increase sales with your potential clients and also create awareness for your company. In this section, you will need to tell your readers how you intend to attract customers and what your marketing plan entails. 

Every business has a goal and objective that they need to achieve over a given period of time. This section of your graphic design business plan should cover how you intend to achieve those goals and the basic operations you would follow to make it happen, either as a short-term goal or a long-term goal. 

To show your readers your graphic design business’s ability to succeed, you will need a strong management team. In this section, you will highlight your key players’ backgrounds and also mention their skills and experience in their mode of work. You can indirectly tell your readers how your team has the ability to grow a company. 

This is also a crucial part of any business plan, especially when seeking financial support from lenders or investors. It is essential that you include an income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement in this section of your plan. This information should clearly analyze your financial projections and how you intend to make profits over a given period. 

Lastly, this section should contain supporting documents that will make your plan more valid and compelling to me to add any license, certification, or qualifications to this section of your business plan. 

You need to put in your all-in commitment to your work to start your graphic design business in 2023. There is also a need to have a clear understanding of the market and any potential competitors you might encounter in your industry. You will also need to pay special attention to your target market. If you maintain a strong online presence and promote your website through digital marketing, then you will scale up your business in no time. The road to success is clear; you only need to follow the right route. 

It can cost approximately £18,000 to £23,000 to start a graphic design business in the UK. However, this cost can also differ depending on how advanced you want your business to be. If it is a more detailed start-up then it would cost you more. 

Graphic design can be classified on a freelance basis and can create materials for corporate clients, advertising agencies, public relations firms, and publishers, inclusive. They can also work as full-timers that provide visual solutions to a particular problem a company might be facing. 

When starting up as a designer, there are some important tools you need to show off your abilities efficiently. You will need a laptop, a high-resolution monitor, a portable hard drive, a graphics tablet, and some color swatches for extra creativity and practicality. As you expand more in your business, you might also discover more handling equipment you might need. 

Aside from following the above steps to create a compelling graphic design business plan for your company, you also need to make use of a template checklist. The essence of a checklist is to help you keep track of all the necessary processes you need to achieve while starting your new business. 

• Understand your skill
• Develop your skills.
• Identify your potential clients.
• Carry out a competitive analysis
• Set your price.
• Get your legal certification.
• Get a workspace 
• Design your marketing plan.

Before you think about finding a client, you must do some basic research to identify who your target audience really is. They can be large and medium corporate companies or even small local businesses. Once you have this information, then you will need to develop a marketing strategy that will enable you to find and attract your potential clients. 

Aside from the work and difficulty that are involved with being a graphic designer, it has also proven to be a highly reputable job in the UK that can earn you good cash. An average UK graphic designer earns a total of £31,000 a year and £12.37 per hour. 

If you are not a new designer, it is advisable to charge your services based on your portfolio or previous clients. However, if you are starting new in the industry and have had no clients in the past, it is best to charge according to other graphic designers in the industry. You can engage in market research to discover how much to charge, and from this, you will get an idea of how you want to charge your clients.  

The seven types of graphic design can be said to be product design, animation design, branding design, website design, print design, publishing design, and environmental design. With these options, a graphic designer will then choose a specific niche to work on.

Creating a business plan from scratch is a daunting task, especially when it is your first time, so you are not alone. It is understandable if you got hooked on a particular section of your plan, all you need is a little help, and I’ve got just the right idea. 

Have you tried using a professional pre-made graphic design business plan made by us? At Businessyield Consult, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs like you compose a professional business plan that works! We have helped multiple businesses and are looking forward to helping more. Grab a copy here and get your business on the go .

Once you have gotten hold of your graphic design business plan, it does not just end with having a plan. If you want your graphic design business to grow, you will need to constantly make adjustments to every little update and information about your business. When you make those changes, you can then measure if you are making progress or not. 

A graphic design business does not need a large space and location to start. As a graphic designer, all you need is a desk, table, and a laptop set-up or study space and you are good to go. If you are working with a large group of people, then you should consider getting an affordable co-working space for a start. 

A graphic design business does not need many requirements to start up. You only need to register your business with the government and get insurance for your company. You will also need copyrighting, trademarking, licensing, tax requirements, and some legal policies just to keep your business valid. 

As a graphic designer, there are some skills that can help you scale more. brand strategy, logo designing, social media branding, animation, typography, web designing, creating brochures, infographics, and some poster design skills. You can register for some courses that can help you acquire these skills if you lack any. 

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Kenechukwu Muoghalu

Kenny, an accomplished business writer with a decade of experience, excels in translating intricate industry insights into engaging articles. Her passion revolves around distilling the latest trends, offering actionable advice, and nurturing a comprehensive understanding of the business landscape. With a proven track record of delivering insightful content, Kenny is dedicated to empowering her readers with the knowledge needed to thrive in the dynamic and ever-evolving world of business.

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Graphic Design Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Are you looking to start a successful graphic design business? It doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right plan, you can make sure your business has the best chance at success. The #1 Graphic Design Business Plan Template & Guidebook provides everything you need to create an organized, professional and detailed plan. With just a few simple steps, you'll be well on your way to launching a successful graphic design business.

Get worry-free services and support to launch your business starting at $0 plus state fees.

• How to Start a Profitable Graphic Design Business [11 Steps]
• 10+ Best & Profitable Graphic Design Business Ideas [2023]
• 25 Catchy Graphic Design Business Names:
• List of the Best Marketing Ideas For Your Graphic Design Service:

How to Write a Graphic Design Business Plan in 7 Steps:

1. describe the purpose of your graphic design business..

The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your graphic design business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers. This is a quick way to get your mind thinking about the customers’ problems. It also helps you identify what makes your business different from others in its industry.

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

Here is an example of a purpose mission statement for a graphic design business:

Our mission is to create stylish and innovative graphic design solutions that enhance our clients' brands and visibility in the marketplace, while providing excellent customer service and value.

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Graphic Design Business.

The next step is to outline your products and services for your graphic design business. 

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

• What is my business?
• What are the products and/or services that I offer?
• Why am I offering these particular products and/or services?
• How do I differentiate myself from competitors with similar offerings?
• How will I market my products and services?

You may want to do a comparison of your business plan against those of other competitors in the area, or even with online reviews. This way, you can find out what people like about them and what they don’t like, so that you can either improve upon their offerings or avoid doing so altogether.

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your graphic design business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

A good marketing plan for your graphic design business includes the following elements:

Target market

• Who is your target market?
• What do these customers have in common?
• How many of them are there?
• How can you best reach them with your message or product?

Customer base 

• Who are your current customers? 
• Where did they come from (i.e., referrals)?
• How can their experience with your graphic design business help make them repeat customers, consumers, visitors, subscribers, or advocates for other people in their network or industry who might also benefit from using this service, product, or brand?

Product or service description

• How does it work, what features does it have, and what are its benefits?
• Can anyone use this product or service regardless of age or gender?
• Can anyone visually see themselves using this product or service?
• How will they feel when they do so? If so, how long will the feeling last after purchasing (or trying) the product/service for the first time?

Competitive analysis

• Which companies are competing with yours today (and why)? 
• Which ones may enter into competition with yours tomorrow if they find out about it now through word-of-mouth advertising; social media networks; friends' recommendations; etc.)
• What specific advantages does each competitor offer over yours currently?

Marketing channels

• Which marketing channel do you intend to leverage to attract new customers?
• What is your estimated marketing budget needed?
• What is the projected cost to acquire a new customer?
• How many of your customers do you instead will return?

Form an LLC in your state!

4. Write Your Operational Plan.

Next, you'll need to build your operational plan. This section describes the type of business you'll be running, and includes the steps involved in your operations. 

In it, you should list:

• The equipment and facilities needed
• Who will be involved in the business (employees, contractors)
• Financial requirements for each step
• Milestones & KPIs
• Location of your business
• Zoning & permits required for the business

What equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a graphic design business?

• Computer & Design Software
• High Quality Printer
• Photography Equipment
• Advertising & Marketing Materials
• Business License or Permit (depending on local regulations)

5. Management & Organization of Your Graphic Design Business.

The second part of your graphic design business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

This section will cover all of the following:

• How many employees you need in order to run your graphic design business. This should include the roles they will play (for example, one person may be responsible for managing administrative duties while another might be in charge of customer service).
• The structure of your management team. The higher-ups like yourself should be able to delegate tasks through lower-level managers who are directly responsible for their given department (inventory and sales, etc.).
• How you’re going to make sure that everyone on board is doing their job well. You’ll want check-ins with employees regularly so they have time to ask questions or voice concerns if needed; this also gives you time to offer support where necessary while staying informed on how things are going within individual departments too!

6. Graphic Design Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

This section should be broken down by month and year. If you are still in the planning stage of your business, it may be helpful to estimate how much money will be needed each month until you reach profitability.

Typically, expenses for your business can be broken into a few basic categories:

Startup Costs

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a graphic design business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a graphic design business.

Running & Operating Costs

Running costs refer to ongoing expenses related directly with operating your business over time like electricity bills or salaries paid out each month. These types of expenses will vary greatly depending on multiple variables such as location, team size, utility costs, etc.

Marketing & Sales Expenses

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your graphic design business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

A financial plan is an important part of any business plan, as it outlines how the business will generate revenue and profit, and how it will use that profit to grow and sustain itself. To devise a financial plan for your graphic design business, you will need to consider a number of factors, including your start-up costs, operating costs, projected revenue, and expenses. 

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your graphic design business plan:

• Determine your start-up costs: This will include the cost of purchasing or leasing the space where you will operate your business, as well as the cost of buying or leasing any equipment or supplies that you need to start the business.
• Estimate your operating costs: Operating costs will include utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, as well as labor costs for employees, if any, and the cost of purchasing any materials or supplies that you will need to run your business.
• Project your revenue: To project your revenue, you will need to consider the number of customers you expect to have and the average amount they will spend on each visit. You can use this information to estimate how much money you will make from selling your products or services.
• Estimate your expenses: In addition to your operating costs, you will need to consider other expenses, such as insurance, marketing, and maintenance. You will also need to set aside money for taxes and other fees.
• Create a budget: Once you have estimated your start-up costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses, you can use this information to create a budget for your business. This will help you to see how much money you will need to start the business, and how much profit you can expect to make.
• Develop a plan for using your profit: Finally, you will need to decide how you will use your profit to grow and sustain your business. This might include investing in new equipment, expanding the business, or saving for a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Graphic Design Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a graphic design business.

A business plan is an important tool for the success of any graphic design business. It can help by providing a clear understanding of the goals and objectives, developing strategies to reach those goals, and creating an action plan that outlines how those objectives will be met. Additionally, having a plan in place can help with financial planning, budgeting, and attracting potential investors or partners.

Who should you ask for help with your graphic design business plan?

When creating a business plan for a graphic design business, it is best to consult a professional business advisor or accountant. They can help assess any potential risks and provide advice on the most suitable financial structure for the business. Additionally, you could join a local entrepreneur group or organization such as SCORE or BizFilings that offers resources and advice for entrepreneurs.

Can you write a graphic design business plan yourself?

Yes, it’s possible to write a graphic design business plan yourself. It’s important to be organized and familiar with the components of a business plan before beginning. A good first step is to research and read business plans in the graphic design industry, as well as studying industry trends. After gaining an understanding of the industry, you can create an executive summary and market evaluation of your product or service. Additionally, be sure to include details about your management team, marketing strategy, pricing structure, financial projections and more.

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I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

How to write a business plan for a graphic design agency?

Writing a business plan for a graphic design agency can be an intimidating task, especially for those just starting.

This in-depth guide is designed to help entrepreneurs like you understand how to create a comprehensive business plan so that you can approach the exercise with method and confidence.

We'll cover: why writing a graphic design agency business plan is so important - both when starting up, and when running and growing the business - what information you need to include in your plan, how it should be structured, and what tools you can use to get the job done efficiently.

Let's get started!

In this guide:

Why write a business plan for a graphic design agency?

• What information is needed to create a business plan for a graphic design agency?
• What goes in the financial forecast for a graphic design agency?
• What goes in the written part of a graphic design agency business plan?
• What tool can I use to write my graphic design agency business plan?

Having a clear understanding of why you want to write a business plan for your graphic design agency will make it simpler for you to grasp the rationale behind its structure and content. So before delving into the plan's actual details, let's take a moment to remind ourselves of the primary reasons why you'd want to create a graphic design agency business plan.

To have a clear roadmap to grow the business

Small businesses rarely experience a constant and predictable environment. Economic cycles go up and down, while the business landscape is mutating constantly with new regulations, technologies, competitors, and consumer behaviours emerging when we least expect it.

In this dynamic context, it's essential to have a clear roadmap for your graphic design agency. Otherwise, you are navigating in the dark which is dangerous given that - as a business owner - your capital is at risk.

That's why crafting a well-thought-out business plan is crucial to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of your venture.

To create an effective business plan, you'll need to take a step-by-step approach. First, you'll have to assess your current position (if you're already in business), and then identify where you'd like your graphic design agency to be in the next three to five years.

Once you have a clear destination for your graphic design agency, you'll focus on three key areas:

• Resources: you'll determine the human, equipment, and capital resources needed to reach your goals successfully.
• Speed: you'll establish the optimal pace at which your business needs to grow if it is to meet its objectives within the desired timeframe.
• Risks: you'll identify and address potential risks you might encounter along the way.

By going through this process regularly, you'll be able to make informed decisions about resource allocation, paving the way for the long-term success of your business.

Need a convincing business plan?

The Business Plan Shop makes it easy to create a financial forecast to assess the potential profitability of your projects, and write a business plan that’ll wow investors.

To maintain visibility on future cash flows

Businesses can go for years without making a profit, but they go bust as soon as they run out of cash. That's why "cash is king", and maintaining visibility on your graphic design agency's future cash flows is critical.

How do I do that? That's simple: you need an up-to-date financial forecast.

The good news is that your graphic design agency business plan already contains a financial forecast (more on that later in this guide), so all you have to do is to keep it up-to-date.

To do this, you need to regularly compare the actual financial performance of your business to what was planned in your financial forecast, and adjust the forecast based on the current trajectory of your business.

Monitoring your graphic design agency's financial health will enable you to identify potential financial problems (such as an unexpected cash shortfall) early and to put in place corrective measures. It will also allow you to detect and capitalize on potential growth opportunities (higher demand from a given segment of customers for example).

To secure financing

Whether you are a startup or an existing business, writing a detailed graphic design agency business plan is essential when seeking financing from banks or investors.

This makes sense given what we've just seen: financiers want to ensure you have a clear roadmap and visibility on your future cash flows.

Banks will use the information included in the plan to assess your borrowing capacity (how much debt your business can support) and your ability to repay the loan before deciding whether they will extend credit to your business and on what terms.

Similarly, investors will review your plan carefully to assess if their investment can generate an attractive return on investment.

To do so, they will be looking for evidence that your graphic design agency has the potential for healthy growth, profitability, and cash flow generation over time.

Now that you understand why it is important to create a business plan for a graphic design agency, let's take a look at what information is needed to create one.

Information needed to create a business plan for a graphic design agency

You need the right data in order to project sales, investments and costs accurately in the financial forecast of your graphic design agency business plan.

Below, we'll cover three key pieces of information you should gather before drafting your business plan.

Carrying out market research for a graphic design agency

Before you begin writing your business plan for a graphic design agency, conducting market research is a critical step in ensuring precise and realistic financial projections.

Market research grants you valuable insights into your target customer base, competitors, pricing strategies, and other crucial factors that can impact the success of your business.

In the course of this research, you may stumble upon trends that could impact your graphic design agency.

Your market research may reveal that some clients may be looking for more complex or specialized graphic design services, such as 3D animation or motion graphics. Additionally, your research might uncover that there could be an increased demand for graphic design services that are tailored to social media platforms.

Such market trends play a pivotal role in revenue forecasting, as they provide essential data regarding potential customers' spending habits and preferences.

By integrating these findings into your financial projections, you can provide investors with more accurate information, enabling them to make well-informed decisions about investing in your graphic design agency.

Developing the sales and marketing plan for a graphic design agency

Budgeting sales and marketing expenses is essential before creating a graphic design agency business plan.

A comprehensive sales and marketing plan should provide an accurate projection of what actions need to be implemented to acquire and retain customers, how many people are needed to carry out these initiatives, and how much needs to be spent on promotions, advertising, and other aspects.

This helps ensure that the right amount of resources is allocated to these activities in order to hit the sales and growth objectives forecasted in your business plan.

The staffing and capital expenditure requirements of a graphic design agency

Whether you are starting or expanding a graphic design agency, it is important to have a clear plan for recruitment and capital expenditures (investment in equipment and real estate) in order to ensure the success of the business.

Both the recruitment and investment plans need to be coherent with the timing and level of growth planned in your forecast, and require appropriate funding.

A graphic design agency might incur staffing costs such as salaries for graphic designers, illustrators, copywriters, web developers, and other creative professionals. They might also need to purchase equipment such as computers, tablets, software licenses, cameras, lighting equipment, and other specialized tools for their projects.

In order to create a realistic financial forecast, you will also need to consider the other operating expenses associated with running the business on a day-to-day basis (insurance, bookkeeping, etc.). 

Once you have all the necessary information to create a business plan for your graphic design agency, it is time to start creating your financial forecast.

What goes into your graphic design agency's financial forecast?

The financial forecast of your graphic design agency's business plan will enable you to assess the growth, profitability, funding requirements, and cash generation potential of your business in the coming years.

The four key outputs of a financial forecast for a graphic design agency are:

• The profit and loss (P&L) statement ,
• The projected balance sheet ,
• The cash flow forecast ,
• And the sources and uses table .

Let's look at each of these in a bit more detail.

The projected P&L statement

Your graphic design agency forecasted P&L statement enables the reader of your business plan to get an idea of how much revenue and profits your business is expected to make in the near future.

Ideally, your reader will want to see:

• Growth above the inflation level
• Expanding profit margins
• Positive net profit throughout the plan

Expectations for an established graphic design agency will of course be different than for a startup. Existing businesses which have reached their cruising altitude might have slower growth and higher margins than ventures just being started.

The forecasted balance sheet of your graphic design agency

The projected balance sheet of your graphic design agency will enable the reader of your business plan to assess the overall financial health of your business.

It shows three elements: assets, liabilities and equity:

• Assets: are productive resources owned by the business, such as equipment, cash, and accounts receivable (money owed by clients).
• Liabilities: are debts owed to creditors, lenders, and other entities, such as accounts payable (money owed to suppliers).
• Equity: includes the sums invested by the shareholders or business owners and the profits and losses accumulated by the business to date (which are called retained earnings). It is a proxy for the value of the owner's stake in the business.

Analysing your graphic design agency projected balance sheet provides an understanding of your graphic design agency's working capital structure, investment and financing policies.

In particular, the readers of your plan can compare the level of financial debt on the balance sheet to the equity value to measure the level of financial risk (equity doesn't need to be reimbursed, while financial debt must be repaid, making it riskier).

They can also use your balance sheet to assess your graphic design agency's liquidity and solvency:

• A liquidity analysis: focuses on whether or not your business has sufficient cash and short-term assets to cover its liabilities due in the next 12 months.
• A solvency analysis: takes and longer view to assess whether or not your business has the capacity to repay its debts over the medium-term.

The cash flow forecast

As we've seen earlier in this guide, monitoring future cash flows is the key to success and the only way of ensuring that your graphic design agency has enough cash to operate.

As you can expect showing future cash flows is the main role of the cash flow forecast in your graphic design agency business plan.

It is best practice to organise the cash flow statement by nature in order to show the cash impact of the following areas:

• Cash flow generated from operations: the operating cash flow shows how much cash is generated or consumed by the business's commercial activities
• Cash flow from investing activities: the investing cash flow shows how much cash is being invested in capital expenditure (equipment, real estate, etc.) either to maintain the business's equipment or to expand its capabilities
• Cash flow from financing activities: the financing cash flow shows how much cash is raised or distributed to financiers

Looking at the cash flow forecast helps you to make sure that your business has enough cash to keep running, and can help you anticipate potential cash shortfalls.

Your graphic design agency business plan will normally include both yearly and monthly cash flow forecasts so that the readers can view the impact of seasonality on your business cash position and generation.

The initial financing plan

The sources and uses table or initial financing plan is a key component of your business plan when starting a graphic design agency.

It shows where the capital needed to set up the business will come from (sources) and how it will be spent (uses).

This table helps size the investment required to set up the graphic design agency, and understand how risks will be distributed between the business owners, and the financiers.

The sources and uses table also highlights what the starting cash position will be. This is key for startups as the business needs to have sufficient funding to sustain operations until the break-even point is reached.

Now that you have a clear understanding of what will go into the financial forecast of your graphic design agency business plan, let's have a look at the written part of the plan.

The written part of a graphic design agency business plan

The written part of a graphic design agency business plan is composed of 7 main sections:

• The executive summary
• The presentation of the company
• The products and services
• The market analysis
• The strategy
• The operations
• The financial plan

Throughout these sections, you will seek to provide the reader with the details and context needed for them to form a view on whether or not your business plan is achievable and your forecast a realistic possibility.

Let's go through the content of each section in more detail!

1. The executive summary

The first section of your graphic design agency's business plan is the executive summary which provides, as its name suggests, an enticing summary of your plan which should hook the reader and make them want to know more about your business.

When writing the executive summary, it is important to provide an overview of the business, the market, the key financials, and what you are asking from the reader.

Start with a brief introduction of the business, its name, concept, location, how long it has been in operation, and what makes it unique. Mention any services or products you plan to offer and who you sell to.

Then you should follow with an overview of the addressable market for your graphic design agency, current trends, and potential growth opportunities.

You should then include a summary of your key financial figures such as projected revenues, profits, and cash flows.

Finally, you should detail any funding requirements in the ask section.

2. The presentation of the company

As you build your graphic design agency business plan, the second section deserves attention as it delves into the structure and ownership, location, and management team of your company.

In the structure and ownership part, you'll provide valuable insights into the legal structure of the business, the identities of the owners, and their respective investments and ownership stakes. This level of transparency is vital, particularly if you're seeking financing, as it clarifies which legal entity will receive the funds and who holds the reins of the business.

Moving to the location part, you'll offer a comprehensive view of the company's premises and articulate why this specific location is strategic for the business, emphasizing factors like catchment area, accessibility, and nearby amenities.

When describing the location of your graphic design agency, you may emphasize the potential for growth it has. You might highlight that it is in a region that is experiencing growth in terms of businesses and population. You could also point out that it is close to major transportation routes, allowing for easy access for customers and employees. Additionally, you may emphasize the diverse talent pool in the area, suggesting that your graphic design agency could benefit from the different mindsets and skill sets available. Finally, you could emphasize the potential for networking opportunities with other local businesses. All of these factors could make for an attractive investment opportunity.

Lastly, you should introduce your esteemed management team. Provide a thorough explanation of each member's role, background, and extensive experience.

It's equally important to highlight any past successes the management team has achieved and underscore the duration they've been working together. This information will instil trust in potential lenders or investors, showcasing the strength and expertise of your leadership team and their ability to deliver the business plan.

3. The products and services section

The products and services section of your graphic design agency business plan should include a detailed description of what your company sells to its customers. 

For example, your graphic design agency could offer logo design, website design, and brochure design to its customers. Logo design helps customers create a recognizable brand identity, while website design can help customers reach a wider audience. Brochure design can be used for print advertising to help customers promote their products and services. All of these services can help customers create a cohesive design that reflects their brand and values.

The reader will want to understand what makes your graphic design agency unique from other businesses in this competitive market.

When drafting this section, you should be precise about the categories of products or services you sell, the clients you are targeting and the channels that you are targeting them through. 

4. The market analysis

When outlining your market analysis in the graphic design agency business plan, it's essential to include comprehensive details about customers' demographics and segmentation, target market, competition, barriers to entry, and relevant regulations.

The primary aim of this section is to give the reader an understanding of the market size and appeal while demonstrating your expertise in the industry.

To begin, delve into the demographics and segmentation subsection, providing an overview of the addressable market for your graphic design agency, key marketplace trends, and introducing various customer segments and their preferences in terms of purchasing habits and budgets.

Next, shift your focus to the target market subsection, where you can zoom in on the specific customer segments your graphic design agency targets. Explain how your products and services are tailored to meet the unique needs of these customers.

For example, your target market might include small businesses who are looking to create a professional website or marketing materials. These businesses may not have the resources to hire a full-time graphic designer, but are willing to invest in high-quality design work to boost their brand recognition. Finally, the target market would include entrepreneurs who need a logo or other visuals to start their company.

In the competition subsection, introduce your main competitors and explain what sets your graphic design agency apart from them.

Finally, round off your market analysis by providing an overview of the main regulations that apply to your graphic design agency.

5. The strategy section

When writing the strategy section of a business plan for your graphic design agency, it is essential to include information about your competitive edge, pricing strategy, sales & marketing plan, milestones, and risks and mitigants.

The competitive edge subsection should explain what sets your company apart from its competitors. This part is especially key if you are writing the business plan of a startup, as you have to make a name for yourself in the marketplace against established players.

The pricing strategy subsection should demonstrate how you intend to remain profitable while still offering competitive prices to your customers.

The sales & marketing plan should outline how you intend to reach out and acquire new customers, as well as retain existing ones with loyalty programs or special offers. 

The milestones subsection should outline what your company has achieved to date, and its main objectives for the years to come - along with dates so that everyone involved has clear expectations of when progress can be expected.

The risks and mitigants subsection should list the main risks that jeopardize the execution of your plan and explain what measures you have taken to minimize these. This is essential in order for investors or lenders to feel secure in investing in your venture.

Your graphic design agency could face financial risks, such as not collecting payments on time or not getting paid at all. Additionally, your agency might run into risks related to human resources, such as having to terminate a contract with a freelancer or having to hire a new employee if an existing one leaves. All of these things could lead to a decrease in business and a disruption in workflow.

6. The operations section

In your business plan, it's also essential to provide a detailed overview of the operations of your graphic design agency.

Start by covering your team, highlighting key roles and your recruitment plan to support the expected growth. Outline the qualifications and experience required for each role and your intended recruitment methods, whether through job boards, referrals, or headhunters.

Next, clearly state your graphic design agency's operating hours, allowing the reader to assess staffing levels adequately. Additionally, mention any plans for varying opening times during peak seasons and how you'll handle customer queries outside normal operating hours.

Then, shift your focus to the key assets and intellectual property (IP) necessary for your business. If you rely on licenses, trademarks, physical structures like equipment or property, or lease agreements, make sure to include them in this section.

You may have key assets such as a well-established brand and a portfolio of graphic designs that could be a valuable source of intellectual property. You might also have a suite of software tools, templates and artwork that could be used to create custom graphics and designs. These could be invaluable pieces of IP that can be used to create a competitive advantage for your agency.

Lastly, include a list of suppliers you plan to work with, detailing their services and main commercial terms, such as price, payment terms, and contract duration. Investors are interested in understanding why you've chosen specific suppliers, which may be due to higher-quality products or established relationships from previous ventures.

7. The presentation of the financial plan

The financial plan section is where we will present the financial forecast we talked about earlier in this guide.

Now that you have a clear idea of what goes in your graphic design agency business plan, let's look at the solutions you can use to draft yours.

What tool should I use to write my graphic design agency's business plan?

In this section, we will be reviewing the two main solutions for creating a graphic design agency business plan:

• Using specialized online business plan software,
• Outsourcing the plan to the business plan writer.

Using an online business plan software for your graphic design agency's business plan

The modern and most efficient way to write a graphic design agency business plan is to use business plan software .

There are several advantages to using specialized software:

• You can easily create your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you without errors
• You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan
• You can access a library of dozens of complete business plan samples and templates for inspiration
• You get a professional business plan, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank or investors
• You can easily track your actual financial performance against your financial forecast
• You can create scenarios to stress test your forecast's main assumptions
• You can easily update your forecast as time goes by to maintain visibility on future cash flows
• You have a friendly support team on standby to assist you when you are stuck

If you're interested in using this type of solution, you can try The Business Plan Shop for free by signing up here .

Hiring a business plan writer to write your graphic design agency's business plan

Outsourcing your graphic design agency business plan to a business plan writer can also be a viable option.

These writers possess valuable experience in crafting business plans and creating accurate financial forecasts. Additionally, enlisting their services can save you precious time, enabling you to concentrate on the day-to-day operations of your business.

It's important to be mindful, though, that hiring business plan writers comes with a cost. You'll be paying not just for their time but also for the software they use, and their profit margin.

Based on experience, a complete business plan usually requires a budget of at least £1.5k ($2.0k) excluding tax, and more if revisions are needed after initial meetings with lenders or investors - changes often arise following these discussions.

When seeking investment, be cautious about spending too much on consulting fees. Investors prefer their funds to contribute directly to business growth. Thus, the amount you spend on business plan writing services and other consulting services should be negligible compared to the amount you raise.

Another aspect to consider is that while you'll receive the output of the business plan, you usually won't own the actual document. It will be saved in the consultant's business plan software, which will make updating the plan challenging without retaining the consultant on a retainer.

Given these factors, it's essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons of outsourcing your graphic design agency business plan to a business plan writer and decide what best suits your business's unique needs.

Why not create your graphic design agency's business plan using Word or Excel?

Using Microsoft Excel and Word (or their Google, Apple, or open-source equivalents) to write a graphic design agency business plan is a terrible idea.

For starters, creating an accurate and error-free financial forecast on Excel (or any spreadsheet) is very technical and requires both a strong grasp of accounting principles and solid skills in financial modelling.

As a result, it is unlikely anyone will trust your numbers unless - like us at The Business Plan Shop - you hold a degree in finance and accounting and have significant financial modelling experience in your past.

The second reason is that it is inefficient. Building forecasts on spreadsheets was the only option in the 1990s and early 2000s, nowadays technology has advanced and software can do it much faster and much more accurately.

And with the rise of AI, software is also becoming smarter at helping us detect mistakes in our forecasts and helping us analyse the numbers to make better decisions.

Also, using software makes it easy to compare actuals vs. forecasts and maintain our forecasts up to date to maintain visibility on future cash flows - as we discussed earlier in this guide - whereas this is a pain to do with a spreadsheet.

That's for the forecast, but what about the written part of my graphic design agency business plan?

This part is less error-prone, but here also software brings tremendous gains in productivity:

• Word processors don't include instructions and examples for each part of your business plan
• Word processors don't update your numbers automatically when they change in your forecast
• Word processors don't handle the formatting for you

Overall, while Word or Excel may be viable options for creating a graphic design agency business plan for some entrepreneurs, it is by far not the best or most efficient solution.

• Using business plan software is a modern and cost-effective way of writing and maintaining business plans.
• A business plan is not a one-shot exercise as maintaining it current is the only way to keep visibility on your future cash flows.
• A business plan has 2 main parts: a financial forecast outlining the funding requirements of your graphic design agency and the expected growth, profits and cash flows for the next 3 to 5 years; and a written part which gives the reader the information needed to decide if they believe the forecast is achievable.

We hope that this in-depth guide met your expectations and that you now have a clear understanding of how to write your graphic design agency business plan. Do not hesitate to contact our friendly team if you have questions additional questions we haven't addressed here.

Also on The Business Plan Shop

• How to write a business plan to secure a bank loan?
• How to write a business plan to find a business partner
• One-page business plan template
• Market analysis in a business plan
• Key steps to write a business plan?
• Top mistakes to avoid in your business plan

Do you know entrepreneurs interested in starting or growing a graphic design agency? Share this article with them!

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

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Graphic Design Business Plan Template [Updated 2024]

Graphic Design Business Plan Template

If you want to start a successful graphic design business or expand your current graphic design business, you need a business plan.

Fortunately, you’re in the right place. Our team has helped develop over 100,000 business plans over the past 20 years, including thousands of graphic design business plans.

The following graphic design business plan template and example gives you the key elements you must include in your plan. In our experience speaking with lenders and investors, the template is organized in the precise format they want.

You can download our business plan template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.  

Graphic Design Business Plan Example

I. executive summary, business overview.

Located in [Location], [Company Name] is a full-service graphic design agency that assists businesses with website, logo, and printed product design. Our services result in a visually appealing website and marketing materials that enhance branding, lead generation, customer acquisition, and customer retention. We provide a free estimate during our complimentary meeting to learn about our clients’ needs and objectives. From printed flyers to website design and functionality, [Company Name] creates customized graphic design solutions and strategies that perfectly match each client’s business and industry. [Company Name]’s goal is to become a top graphic design agency brand and compete with the industry leaders.

Products Served

[Company Name] will provide a variety of graphic design services to its clients. Our services include:

• Website design and development
• Logo design
• Print design
• Social media graphics
• Brand identity development
• Content creation
• Copywriting

Customer Focus

[Company Name] will primarily serve entrepreneurs, start-ups, and corporate organizations that are located within 50 miles of [Location]. The demographics of these customers are as follows:

• 20,000 corporations and small businesses
• 15,000 entrepreneurs

Management Team

[Company Name] is led by [Founder’s Name], who has been in the graphic design industry for [X] years. He has worked as a graphic designer for several corporations and has a consistent track record of improving branding and customer retention through his work. He has recently begun working as a freelance graphic designer but has now decided to turn his freelance business into an agency. He will hire several other graphic designers to help him manage his clients and workload.

Success Factors

[Company Name] is qualified to succeed due to the following reasons:

• There is currently a high demand for graphic design services in the community. In addition, the company surveyed the local population and received highly positive feedback pointing towards an explicit demand for the services, supporting the business after launch.
• There has been significant growth in graphic design over the past few years. Those who cater to this market have been thriving.
• The management team has a track record of success in the graphic design business.
• The graphic design business is a proven, successful business in the United States.

Financial Highlights

[Company Name] is currently seeking $200,000 to launch the graphic design agency. Specifically, these funds will be used as follows:

• Office build-out: $50,000
• Equipment and supplies: $50,000
• Working capital: $100,000 to pay for marketing, equipment, and salaries.

Top line projections over the next five years are as follows:

II. Company Overview

You can download our Business Plan Template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here.

Who is [Company Name]?

[Company Name] is a full-service graphic design agency located in [Location]. We specialize in helping businesses create visually appealing websites, logos, and printed products that enhance branding, lead generation, customer acquisition, and customer retention. Our services include website design and development, logo design, print design, brand identity development, and SEO.

We work with businesses of all sizes, from startups to established corporations. We understand that each business has unique needs, and we tailor our services to meet those needs.

We offer a free consultation to learn more about our clients’ business and their goals. During this consultation, we discuss the client’s budget, timeline, and desired results. We will also provide them with a free estimate for our services. Once we understand their needs, we will create a custom graphic design solution that is tailored to their business. We will work with our clients every step of the way to ensure that they are satisfied with the final product.

[Company Name] is founded by [Founder’s Name], an experienced graphic design professional. [Founder’s Name] is an entrepreneur with a passion for graphic design who seeks to provide a one-of-a-kind upscale graphic design experience. His experience and our commitment to excellence will make [Company Name] the top graphic design agency in [Location].

[Company Name]’s History

After surveying the local customer base, [Founder’s Name] incorporated [Company Name] as an S-Corporation on [Date of Incorporation].

[Founder’s Name] is currently undergoing due diligence on several properties and the local market to assess the most desirable location for the graphic design agency.

Since incorporation, the company has achieved the following milestones:

• Developed the company’s name, logo, and website
• Determined the list of services to be offered
• Determined equipment requirements
• Began recruiting key employees

[Company Name]’s Products/Services

[Company Name] will provide a comprehensive list of graphic design services to help clients create beautiful websites, design print materials, and effectively market their brand. Our services include:

III. Industry Analysis

You can download our Business Plan Template (including a full, customizable financial model) to your computer here. [Company Name] competes against small, individually owned graphic design agencies and major regional or national chains. According to IBIS World, the U.S. graphic design market was valued at $49.7 billion in 2023 and grew 3.3% that same year. On average, the industry has grown 2.9% each year in the past five years. Similar growth is expected over the next several years.

The primary positive factor affecting this industry is the demand driven by the target audience to effectively market and promote their content, products, and services online. This creates a demand for well-designed websites and marketing materials that will enhance branding, lead generation, customer acquisition, and customer retention. There are not enough expert graphic designers to currently meet this demand, meaning that graphic design agencies are an essential business. If these trends continue, our graphic design agency will be in high demand for the foreseeable future.

IV. Customer Analysis

Demographic profile of target market.

[Company Name] will serve entrepreneurs, start-ups, corporate organizations, as well as small businesses in the [Location] area. Over time, the company expects that it will gain regional and national recognition.

Customer Segmentation

[Company Name] will primarily target the following customer segments:

• Entrepreneurs and Start-Ups : Entrepreneurs and start-ups don’t have the time, skill, or budget to hire an in-house graphic designer. Therefore, they are the most likely segment to need the services of a graphic design agency. We expect most of our clients will come from this segment.
• Corporate Organizations : Corporate organizations are always looking for outside help for affordable services and unique design and branding ideas. We look forward to working with several large industries and businesses located throughout the region.
• Small Businesses : Small businesses that need to increase their reach in the local, national, and international markets will make an important market segment for the company. Like start-ups, they may not have the budget to hire their own team of graphic designers and will need our agency’s services.

V. Competitive Analysis

Direct & indirect competitors.

The following establishments are located within a 20-mile radius of [Company Name], thus providing either direct or indirect competition for customers:

Sunset Designs Sunset Designs is the city’s most well-known graphic design agency and has been in business for 20 years. Sunset Designs specializes in helping mission-driven organizations by transforming their branding, social media, website design, and marketing strategy. Sunset Designs offers quality digital and print design services to ensure their clients maintain a consistent brand and improve their customer retention. Sunset Designs works with both small and large businesses to help them enhance their digital and physical presence. We expect that Sunset Designs will be our biggest competitor in the local market.

Digital Design Pros Digital Design Pros has been in the industry since 2010, catering to entrepreneurs and corporations alike. Digital Design Pros focuses on providing digital graphic design services, from website design and functionality to social media graphics. Digital Design Pros is dedicated to bringing customers’ business visions to life through its knowledge, experience, and visionary designs. Though Digital Design Pros will continue to thrive, they will only compete with us for clients who exclusively need digital graphic design services.

Wise Designs Wise Designs was established in 2012 and is known for its transparent work and real-time results for its clients. Wise Designs mainly focuses on designing printed materials for local businesses, including logos, flyers, and business cards. They also provide advice and consultations on brand strategy and how to attract new customers with their products. While Wise Designs’ services are still in high demand, they will only compete with us for clients who exclusively need printed products.

Competitive Advantage

[Company Name] enjoys several advantages over its competitors. These advantages include:

• Management : The company’s management team has [X] years of graphic design experience that allows them to serve customers in an improved and sophisticated manner than the competitors.
• Relationships : Having lived in the community for [X] years, [Founder’s Name] knows all of the local leaders, media, and other influencers. Furthermore, he will be able to draw from his existing personal and professional relationships to develop an initial client base.
• Location : [Company Name]’s location is near the center of town, giving the company access to budding artists, corporate organizations, entrepreneurs, and small businesses.

VI. Marketing Plan

The [company name] brand.

The [Company Name] brand will focus on the company’s unique value proposition:

• Convenient location.
• Offering a wide variety of high-quality graphic design services to entrepreneurs, corporate organizations, and small businesses.
• Providing excellent customer service.
• Moderate price point.

Promotions Strategy

[Company Name] expects its target market to be entrepreneurs, start-ups, corporate organizations, and small businesses. The company’s promotional strategy to reach the audience includes:

Pre-Opening Events Before opening the graphic design agency, [Company Name] will organize pre-opening events designed for prospective customers and press contacts. These events will create buzz and awareness for [Company Name] in the area.

Advertisement Advertisements in print publications like newspapers, magazines, etc., are an excellent way for businesses to connect with their audience. [Company Name] will advertise its company offerings in popular magazines and news dailies. Obtaining relevant placements in industry magazines and journals will also help in increasing brand visibility.

Public Relations [Company Name] will hire an experienced PR agency/professional(s) to formulate a compelling PR campaign to boost its brand visibility among the target audience. It will look to garner stories about the company and its services in various media outlets like podcasts, television stations, radio shows, etc.

Social Media Marketing Social media is one of the most cost-effective and practical marketing methods for improving brand visibility. [Company Name] will use social media to develop engaging content and post customer reviews that will increase audience awareness and loyalty.

Website/SEO [Company Name] will develop a professional website that displays details about our services, staff, location, and contact information. It will also invest in SEO so that the company’s website will appear at the top of search engine results.

Word of Mouth Marketing [Company Name] will encourage word-of-mouth marketing from loyal and satisfied clients. The company will use recommendations and word-of-mouth marketing to grow its customer base through the network of its existing customers.

Pricing Strategy

[Company Name]’s pricing will be moderate, so customers feel they receive great value when availing of the graphic design services. The customer can expect to receive quality services at a more affordable price than what they pay at an ultra-premium graphic design company.

VII. Operations Plan

Functional roles.

To execute [Company Name]’s business model, the company needs to perform many functions, including the following:

Service Functions

• Cold call potential clients
• Provide free estimates and complimentary consultations
• Design websites for better appearance and functionality
• Design printed products and marketing materials

Administrative Functions

• Bookkeeping
• Website and social media maintenance
• Hiring and training staff

VIII. Management Team

Management team members.

Though [Founder’s Name] has never run an agency before, he will hire several other staff to help him run the aspects of the business that he is unfamiliar with.

Hiring Plan

[Founder’s Name] will serve as the CEO. To launch the graphic design agency, the company will need to hire the following personnel:

• Graphic Designers (3 to start)
• Human Resources Manager
• Sales Executives (2 to start)
• Administrative Assistant

IX. Financial Plan

Revenue and cost drivers.

[Company Name]’s revenues will come from the fees charged for our graphic design services.

The major costs for the company will be staff salaries. In the initial years, the company’s marketing spend will be high, as it establishes itself in the market.

Capital Requirements and Use of Funds

Key assumptions.

The following table reflects the key revenue and cost assumptions made in the financial model:

5 Year Annual Income Statement

5 Year Annual Balance Sheet

5 Year Annual Cash Flow Statement

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A Business Plan for Freelance Graphic Designers

There were so many times in my business that I just stopped in my tracks. I was working on something for so long, like a client project, that when I was done I almost didn’t know what was next. I was missing a small business plan that really worked for me.

The ironic thing about freezing up and not knowing what to do is that we most likely have a long list already made. And that list has all of the good intentions to grow your business. However, the priorities are a little blurred when there is so much busyness all around.

I love using project management software for my business (Asana and Notion). I always had a section on there to brainstorm ideas. But oftentimes they would just stay there and never go anywhere. And when I would finally get around to looking at it, I’d close the window!

In those times, I’m running around like a headless chicken trying to figure out my next step. I learned from school and also from a few resources about how to make a formal business plan. It was very daunting, structured, and a little hard to follow.

I think the reason for that is small business plans are different for solo entrepreneurs and designers. We constantly have to be moving and thinking on our feet. The best thing to do is to create a more flexible business plan that actually makes sense for a  graphic designer.

Regularly ask yourself what you want for your graphic design business

My assumption is that most of us are not asking ourselves questions often enough. We evolve as business owners and as people.  We go through phases of life or struggles, and suddenly those things that were once important aren’t anymore. And we may have redefined values.

Because we are always changing, it should be a regular practice to ask yourself what you want. First of all, do you like what you’re doing? Are you in the right headspace? Is it good for your mental health? Is it helping with creativity? Is it healthy for your relationships?

It’s crucial to audit your business in terms of your lifestyle. The goal of having a design business should be to enhance your life based on your definitions of that. Check on yourself every quarter and make sure everything is in alignment.

Add short and long-term goals to the small business plan

I know some people like to ask you what your 5 and 10-year goals are. It really depends on how you like to imagine these things. For me, I have a vision of what I’d like my future self to be, but it’s really hard to see that far out.

If you’re able to do so, envisioning your life that far ahead is a great skill, and you can write all of that down. But if you can’t, don’t fret. Because sometimes the short-term goals are just as good and helpful for your business.

Annual business plan

Start with an annual plan and then work backward.  I tend to be on the more conservative and practical side and often don’t practice dreaming big. But don’t be like me!

You should absolutely be stretching your goals to something you can’t even imagine right now.  list out these items and you can add or remove them to your liking:

• Annual income
• Number of clients
• Type of clients
• Average price of services
• Types/streams of income
• Number of hours worked (broken up by week)
• Relationships

I kept it pretty broad because I want you to interpret this in a way that makes sense for you. Write down what excites you and figure out how you can make your design business support these things. Besides being a long-term plan, this is really a mindset exercise to get you to start thinking of your business working for you.

Your mission and vision

I love creating an annual plan first because it can manifest what I want in life. I can see from here what my true priorities are, and it is easier to figure out my vision.  You’ve written out what’s most important to you and your ambition to accomplish it.

You know what kind of service is you want to offer and who you want to help. That right there is your mission.

Put it at the top of your business plan so you can be reminded of it. It will help you not stray too far if you’re feeling that shiny object syndrome.

Weekly + monthly plan

You can now break up your annual plan to come up with your weekly and monthly plans. What do you need to do in order to reach your goals this month? How can you divide that by the weeks?

Create an Asana board (or any other project management tool. Google Sheets or Airtable work really well too), and break up your workweek.

Categorize and prioritize your small business plan by timeline

It’s time to categorize these into more digestible tasks. If you want two large clients a month, you have to figure out who these clients could potentially be and where you can find them.

So maybe in this case your ideal clients are on Instagram. Now you have to come up with an Instagram strategy where you put out content that attracts them.  You can also message certain businesses and connect with them.

Next, add time for social media marketing and content creation in a way that helps you do it every week.

Keep your design business plan flexible

Even though you have everything written down, it doesn’t have to be rigid. Always remind yourself of your vision, and for this year that should pretty much stay the same. Your approaches to your clients and marketing will be the flexible part.

There are so many new things coming out that will help you during this time whether those are resources, software, or other tools.  On the other hand, platforms are constantly changing which may make things more difficult. Adapting to the changes is what will keep your business strong as long as you keep your overall messaging consistent.

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Graphic Artist Business Plan Template

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Are you a budding graphic artist looking to turn your creative passion into a successful business venture? Crafting a solid business plan is the first step to making your dreams a reality. ClickUp's Graphic Artist Business Plan Template is your go-to tool for mapping out a strategic roadmap for your graphic design business.

With this template, you can:

• Conduct thorough market research to identify your target audience
• Develop financial projections to set realistic business goals
• Outline innovative marketing strategies to stand out in a competitive landscape
• Analyze your competitors and carve a unique niche in the market

Ready to bring your artistic vision to life? Get started with ClickUp's Graphic Artist Business Plan Template today!

Graphic Artist Business Plan Template Benefits

Planning for success with the graphic artist business plan template.

Crafting a solid business plan is crucial for graphic artists looking to succeed in the competitive industry. The Graphic Artist Business Plan Template offers a range of benefits, including:

• Guiding Your Business Strategy: Outline your goals and strategies for success
• Attracting Investors: Present a professional and detailed plan to potential investors
• Financial Clarity: Project and manage your finances effectively
• Strategic Growth: Plan for expansion and future opportunities in the market

Main Elements of Graphic Artist Business Plan Template

To kickstart your graphic design business plan effectively, utilize ClickUp’s Graphic Artist Business Plan Template featuring:

• Custom Statuses: Track progress with statuses like Complete, In Progress, Needs Revision, and To Do to ensure every aspect of your business plan is well-managed
• Custom Fields: Utilize custom fields like Reference, Approved, and Section to categorize and store vital information such as references, approval status, and specific sections of the business plan
• Custom Views: Access different perspectives with views like Topics, Status, Timeline, Business Plan, and Getting Started Guide to organize and visualize your business plan effectively
• Project Management: Enhance your business planning process with tools like Gantt chart for timeline visualization, Board view for task management, and Dashboards for tracking progress and performance.

How To Use Graphic Artist Business Plan Template

Creating a solid business plan as a graphic artist is crucial for setting yourself up for success. By using the Graphic Artist Business Plan Template in ClickUp and following the steps below, you can map out your path to thriving in the competitive creative industry. Let's get started!

1. Define your vision and mission

Begin by outlining your vision for your graphic art business. What do you aim to achieve in the short and long term? Next, define your mission statement, which should encapsulate the core purpose of your business and the value you provide to your clients.

Utilize a Doc in ClickUp to draft your vision and mission statement for your graphic art business.

2. Conduct market research

Understand your target audience, competitors, and industry trends. Analyze the demand for graphic art services and identify opportunities for growth and differentiation in the market.

Use the Table view in ClickUp to organize and analyze your market research data effectively.

3. Develop your services and pricing

Based on your market research, define the graphic art services you will offer. Determine your pricing strategy by considering factors such as your costs, value proposition, and competitive pricing.

Create custom fields in ClickUp to detail your services and pricing structure.

4. Outline your marketing strategy

Plan how you will promote your graphic art business to attract clients. Consider strategies such as social media marketing, networking, collaborations, and portfolio showcases to reach your target audience effectively.

Utilize Automations in ClickUp to schedule and automate your marketing activities for efficiency.

5. Set financial goals and projections

Establish realistic financial goals for your graphic art business, including revenue targets, expenses, and profit margins. Create financial projections to track your progress and make informed decisions.

Use Goals in ClickUp to set and monitor your financial targets and milestones.

6. Monitor, evaluate, and adapt

Regularly review your business plan, track your performance against goals, and adapt strategies as needed. Stay agile and responsive to market changes and opportunities to ensure the growth and success of your graphic art business.

Set up Dashboards in ClickUp to visualize key performance indicators and track the progress of your graphic art business regularly.

By following these steps and leveraging the Graphic Artist Business Plan Template in ClickUp, you can build a solid foundation for your graphic art business and work towards achieving your creative and financial aspirations.

Get Started with ClickUp’s Graphic Artist Business Plan Template

Graphic artists and aspiring entrepreneurs can use this Graphic Artist Business Plan Template to create a detailed plan for their graphic design business, attracting investors and ensuring successful operations.

To get started:

• Click on “Add Template” to add the Graphic Artist Business Plan Template to your Workspace in ClickUp. Specify the location where you want to apply this template.
• Invite relevant team members or stakeholders to collaborate on the business plan.

Now, leverage the template's features to craft a compelling business plan:

• Utilize the Topics View to organize different sections of your business plan, such as market analysis, financial projections, and marketing strategies.
• Track progress using the Status View to monitor tasks under different statuses like Complete, In Progress, Needs Revision, and To Do.
• Create a detailed timeline in the Timeline View to establish deadlines and milestones for key business activities.
• Use the Business Plan View to have a comprehensive overview of your entire plan in one place.
• Refer to the Getting Started Guide View for a step-by-step guide on how to effectively use the template.

Enhance your business plan by customizing it with the following custom fields:

• Add the Reference field to link related documents or external resources to your plan.
• Use the Approved field to mark sections or tasks that have been approved.
• Incorporate the Section field to categorize different parts of your business plan for easy navigation and organization.

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Graphic Design Business Plan Template

Jan.30, 2018

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Table of Content

Do you want to start graphic design business?

Are you planning to start your own company of graphics designing ? Well, if you are creative and also have the ability to bring your creativity to the table then this is definitely the right business for you.

Graphic designing is probably one of the skills which are needed in nearly every other business. If you are not convinced, just look around you and you will see graphics everywhere. Graphic designing is needed in branding, posters, print advertisement, product packaging, publications (newspapers, books, magazines etc.), handbills, billboards, websites, in short nearly all areas. This business has undoubtedly a lot of market potential and a need for continuously emerging new and innovative minds.

The biggest benefit of starting this business is that it requires the least capital investment as compared to many other businesses. You can start this business in a small office with a small team and a little inventory comprising of laptops, and a few office and stationery products. The second benefit is that this business starts yielding a profit as soon as it is launched and has the least amount of risk associated with it, provided that you are creative and plan your business effectively.

So, before you move on to starting this venture, you will have to prepare a comprehensive graphics design business plans which will establish the basis of your company’s future operations and decisions. If you are wondering how to write one then here we are providing you the business plan for a graphic designing business startup named ‘PixelCo’.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

PixelCo will be a bonded, insured and licensed graphic design business striving to cultivate relevant and meaningful connections between brands and people by our unparalleled visuals and graphic designing services. PixelCo will be located in the Manhattan borough of the New York City and will be owned by Angela Gori, a world-renowned Graphic Designer. Gori has been associated with some of the world’s biggest graphics designing companies and was Chief Creative Officer for the American Marketing Association, D.C. Chapter for last 6 years. She has worked with about 14 out of top Fortune 100 companies as well as various influential associations, consumer brands, educational institutions and government agencies.

A 200 square feet office has already been acquired on lease in the center of the main commercial district of the downtown Manhattan. The place was formerly used as an office for a small IT firm. Some changes and interior designing woodwork are also required and a contractor has been hired for this purpose.

2.2 Management

The success of a startup heavily depends on its staff and management so make sure to plan it before thinking about how to start your own graphic design business . Gori has always been extremely passionate to start a graphic design company of her own even from her college days, that’s she had planned everything beforehand.

The main management body of the company will comprise of sales executives, graphic artists, cartoon and animation specialists, website developers and customer representatives. The team will be led and managed by Gori herself, who is well experienced in fulfilling all business plans for graphic design needs. The staff will be hired one month before the launch of startup and will be trained by Gori.

2.3 Customers

Our target market is the corporate sector, institutions, and organizations located in Manhattan and other parts of the world because anybody from anywhere can acquire our services through our official website and can pay us via PayPal, Payoneer, or online bank transfer. We will provide all sort of graphic designing business mainly website design, logo design, advertising material design, animations design, etc. We have priced all our services in the similar ranges as of our competitors except for brand logos whose price have been set 20% less so as to encourage sales. For an express delivery of 24 hours, an additional 10% amount will be charged on all of our services.

2.4 Business Target

We aim to become the best graphic designer in the New York City within next five years of our startup. Our main business targets to be achieved as milestones over the course of next three years are as follows:

• To achieve the net profit margin of $10k per month by the end of the first year, $15k per month by the end of the second year, and $25k per month by the end of the third year
• To balance the initial cost of the startup with earned profits by the end of the first year
• To open up a second company office by the end of three years in San Francisco, and a third office by the end of five years in Los Angeles

2.5 Keys to Success

We can achieve our business targets by following these keys to success:

• Successful marketing of our services through various platforms so as to attract as maximum customers as possible
• Ultimate client satisfaction by providing high-quality work and unlimited revisions until the client is fully satisfied
• Unparalleled customer service so as to build long-term working relationships with the clients

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

PixelCo will be owned by Angela Gori, a world-renowned Graphic Designer. After completing her Masters of Art in Graphic Designing from University of Illinois, Chicago, Gori remained associated with some of the world’s biggest graphics designing companies and was Chief Creative Officer for the American Marketing Association, D.C. Chapter for last 6 years. She has also been recognized with the prestigious FOLIO: Top Women in Media award for her achievements as a leader. So far, she has worked with almost 14 out of top Fortune 100 companies as well as various influential associations, consumer brands, educational institutions and government agencies.

3.2 Why the Business is being started

Gori pursued her passion by serving in some of the biggest graphic designing companies of the United States but soon she realized that she can establish her name in this industry only by her own setup. That’s when she decided to start graphic design business completely by herself. Now, she will have all the freedom needed to realize even the craziest of her innovative ideas.

3.3 How the Business will be started

Starting a graphic design business is very easy since it doesn’t require as much inventory as needed in other businesses. Gori has planned everything about her business including the required personnel and inventory. The company will procure following things for the startup.

• Office furniture including three filing cabinets, four work desks, couch and chairs for customer waiting area, a round table with chairs for meeting area
• Four computers with color printers, scanners, and graphic tablets
• Graphic designing and other related software including Illustrator, Freehand, Photoshop, Quark, Traffic Office Manager, Font Management Utilities, and Microsoft Project
• A small library of requisite journals and magazines
• Assorted office stationary and brochures
• A strong internet connection and office telecom systems

The financial experts have forecasted following costs for expenses, assets, investment, and bank loans for the business plan .

The detailed start-up requirements, start-up funding, start-up expenses, total assets, total funding required, total liabilities, total planned investment, total capital and liabilities as forecasted by experts, is given below:

Services for customers

PixelCo will mainly provide visual communication and graphic designing services to small startups as well as established companies. We want to compete with all leading graphic design businesses in the United States, which is why we have formed a quality assurance team that will ensure that all of our services meet our customers’ expectations. Our products and services are listed below:

• Website design and graphics
• Print media design including newspapers, magazines, and books
• Advertising and corporate branding including brochures, infographics, posters and product packaging
• Logo design and visual identity services
• Illustrations and presentations
• Animations and cartoons production

Our services can either be acquired by visiting our office in downtown Manhattan or by our official website.

Customers can contact us online where they will be assigned to one of our representatives who will record the customer order in detail. Customers can also pay us via PayPal, Payoneer, or online bank transfer.

Marketing Analysis of graphic design business

The most important component of an effective graphic design business plans is its accurate marketing analysis that’s why Gori acquired the services of marketing experts to help her through this phase. It is only after this stage that a good graphic design business plans could have been developed. After identifying the trends of graphic design market in the New York City, the marketing experts and analysts also helped her to select the best site for establishing the main office of the company.

The success or failure of a business totally depends upon its marketing strategy which can only be developed on the basis of accurate marketing analysis. There are four main steps to carry out an accurate graphic design marketing analysis which are to identify the current market trends, identify your target audience and potential customers, set out the business targets to achieve, and finally set the prices of your products and services. Marketing analysis is extremely important because the planning of many subsequent components depends on it and it also forms the basis of the business strategy of marketing for graphic designers or graphic designing companies. Therefore, it must be considered before developing the planned business model graphic .

5.1 Market Trends

Graphic design is non-verbal or visual communication. Anything that cannot be done verbally but needs to be communicated must be put into some form of design so as to send the message across. If you look around you will find yourself surrounded by graphics, the picture on your coffee mug, the magazine cover, the pack of gum on your desk, and even the typeface in a TV ad are all examples of graphic design business plans.

That’s why graphic design industry is one of the biggest and the fastest growing industries in the world. As of 2017, there were more than 335,000 graphic design companies in the world including small and large companies as well as individual graphic design freelancers. The annual revenue earned by these businesses was over $62 Billion. Moreover, this industry is one of the few industries which have seen a constant increase in revenue along with the increase in business locations with time. Similarly, graphic designing is one of the popular businesses in the United States. According to the US Bureau of Labor, the graphic design industry employed more than 280,000 people in the US as of 2008 including web designers and other print designers as well.

This growth is attributed to the increase in other businesses in the United States since all businesses require graphic design services to appear professionally to the public. Graphic designing services are required by every business for its advertisement, promotion, and marketing and as other business increases, the market for graphic design business plans also increases. After identifying these market trends, it is clearly evident that the graphic design business is always blooming and can be immensely profitable provided that you plan your business successfully.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

Our target market is the corporate sector located in the Central Business District of the Manhattan which provides many opportunities to us. Manhattan houses more than 300,000 businesses as of 2014, including local, national and multinational businesses. On average, these businesses make millions of dollars every year and can easily spend extravagantly on their graphic designing needs for the sake of promoting their brands.

In order to develop a good marketing strategy, it is crucial to analyze the market segmentation. A successful and efficient marketing strategy can only be developed after we completely know our potential customers. Our experts have identified the following type of target audience which can become our future consumers:

The detailed marketing segmentation of our target audience is as follows:

5.2.1 Corporate Sector:

The biggest consumer of our services will be the corporate sector located in the Downtown Manhattan and in various parts of the world. There are hundreds of local, national and multinational businesses and companies located within 15 km radius of our office including product manufacturers and distributors, real estate owners, developers, and contractors, research and development companies, banks and insurance companies, hotels, restaurants and food companies, IT and software development firms, branding and advertising agencies.

These companies and businesses require the services of graphic designers for fulfilling their visual communicative needs such as to create/update their brand logos and create/update the graphics on their websites or social media pages. These companies need graphic designers for developing an instant connection between their target audience and their products/services, and also for producing visual aids and informative images (e.g. menu for a restaurant, infographics) that help the customers in communication and various other purposes. Utilizing an appropriate graphic design can improve every aspect of a business and can positively impact clients, vendors, and employees.

Considering the need of graphic designing for these businesses and their annual average income, our experts have forecasted this target group to contribute the biggest portion of our revenue. Hence our marketing strategy will be specifically tailored to attract this customer group.

5.2.2 Institutions & Organizations:

Our second target group comprises of various institutions and organizations located in Manhattan including government and public-sector organizations, schools, colleges and universities, political parties, religious and sports organizations, and non-profit organizations. These organizations also need graphic design services for promoting their messages and other purposes.

5.2.3 Print & Digital Media:

Our third target group consists of print and digital media companies located in Manhattan. These companies include but are not limited to television studios, video production companies, publication companies (for graphics designing of newspapers, magazines, and books). This group, due to its specific nature, requires a lot of graphic designing work and will thus become the second biggest consumer of our services. The detailed market analysis of our potential customers is given in the following table:

5.3 Business Target

Our target is to balance the initial cost of startup within the first year of our launch and to become the best graphic designer of the New York City within next five years of our startup.

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5.4 Product Pricing

Product and service pricing is one of the most important factors in deciding the strategy for an event planning business. After considering the market demands, we have priced all our services in the similar ranges as of our competitors except for brand logos whose price have been set 20% less so as to encourage sales. The reason behind our pricing policy is to achieve the minimum attractive rate of return which would not be possible in case of offering our services at low prices. Various packages are priced according to the delivery time and number of revisions. For an express delivery of 24 hours, an additional 10% amount will be charged on all of our services.

After identifying the graphic designer demographics , market trends, market demand, and the potential customers of the startup, the next step is to define an effective strategy to target graphic design customers. A successful strategy can only be developed after setting specific marketing goals, defining milestones to achieve those goals, carrying out a competitive analysis to know what is missing in your current competitors, and finally develop the strategy for attracting your potential customers.

6.1 Marketing Goals

• Website Traffic & Conversions: Our goal would be to achieve a 20% increase in website traffic each month and to get at least an 80% conversion rate, i.e. to turn 80% of our website visitors into our customers.
• Engagement Rate & Social Media Following: Engagement rates indicate the frequency at which people interact with your posts. Our goal would be to increase engagement rates and our social media following so as to decrease the response time to customers.
• Brand Awareness & Recognition: A business’s reputation builds over time. Our goal will be to get featured in the local news or on a certain website by a popular blogger within first 3 months of our launch.
• Google Search Ranking: Google search rankings is one of the most important factors in deciding the success of a business, especially a startup that’s why we will play special emphasis on it. Our goal would be to rank on the first page of Google within 3 months of our launch.

6.2 Milestones

The important milestones to achieve our marketing as well as business goals are given in the following Gantt Chart.

6.3 Competitive Analysis

The graphic design business plans is undoubtedly one of the most competitive industries of the United States. With the increasing number of graphic design startups and freelancers, the competition is getting stiffer by the day. One has to be highly creative and come up with innovative designs and concepts so as to survive and grow in this industry. Our competitive advantage lies in the power and dedication of our team. We have a team of creative and highly proficient graphic designers, a team with excellent qualifications and experience various niche areas in the graphic design industry. Our second biggest competitive advantage will be the leadership of Gori since she is a world-renowned graphic designer and has worked with 14 out of top Fortune 100 companies.

6.4 Sales Strategy

After carrying out a detailed analysis, our experts came up with the following brilliant ideas to advertise and sell ourselves.

• We will advertise our business in relevant business magazines, newspapers, TV stations, and social media.
• We will introduce our company to corporate organizations and key stakeholders by sending introductory letters alongside our brochures.
• We will offer a 25% discount on our services for the first three months of our launch.
• We will offer a 40% discount on all of our services on Client’s referral.

6.5 Sales Forecast

Considering the quality of our services and our exceptional marketing strategy, our sales pattern is expected to increase with years. By analyzing our market segmentation strategy, our experts have forecasted the following sales on a yearly basis which are summarized in the column charts.

The detailed information about sales forecast, total unit sales, total sales is given in the following table:

6.5.1 Sales Monthly

6.5.2 Sales Yearly

With the advent of the internet, it has become very easy for a graphic design company to work for those clients who are located in any other part of the world. That’s why most of the graphic design companies located in the United States have their biggest clients in other countries of the world. This trend is somewhat unique to the graphic design industry and is probably one of the reasons for its rapid growth and expansion. Even any of you can start your own graphic design business either through a freelancing website or by creating your own website.

7.1 Website Marketing Strategy:

The international graphic design business is only possible through a well-developed website. A website is just like a digital platform where the clients and service providers can interact, make contracts and even send/receive payments. In addition to that, it is an established fact that a well-ranked website on Google directly or indirectly leads to increased sales. That’s why it is very important to develop an attractive website for a graphic designing business plans.

7.2 Website Development:

Gori has a team of website developers, led by Anna Rick, who would be responsible for developing and maintaining the official website of PixelCo. Anna would also ensure that our website remains on the first page of Google because you don’t exist if you are not ranked on the first page of Google. Since this task will be done by our team so no additional cost will be incurred in the startup.

Personnel plan

Personnel plan, like all other plans, is an important component of effective d esign business plans so it must be planned before you even think about how to market your graphic design business . Its importance is due to the fact that success of any business significantly depends upon its employees. It is never easy to estimate the number and type of staff needed for a company before it is even launched therefore it is advisable to seek the help of HR experts to get through this phase. Gori acquired the services of experts to help her develop the following personnel plan for her company.

8.1 Company Staff

Gori will act as the General Manager of the company and will initially hire following people before she moves to start a graphic design business :

• 1 Accountant to maintain financial and other records
• 4 Sales Executives responsible for marketing and discovering new ventures
• 10 Graphic Artists for designing logos, infographics, brochures, and other graphics
• 2 Cartoon and Animation Specialists for designing animation for various purposes
• 4 Website Developers led by Anna for graphical work pertaining to websites
• 4 Customer Representatives to interact with customers and record their orders
• 1 Front Desk Officer to act as a receptionist
• 1 Security Officer

We will ensure that only qualified, creative, hardworking, customer-centric are hired and they are always ready to work in order to help us build a prosperous business benefitting all stakeholders (owner, workforce as well as customers). To ensure the best quality service, all employees will be selected through vigorous testing and will be trained for a month before starting their jobs.

8.2 Average Salary of Employees

The following table shows the data about employees and their salaries for next three years. The salaries of the employees for the second and third year are estimated by our experts on the basis of our forecasted expansion. The salaries will show a deviation if the company expands more or less than the forecasted growth rate.

Financial Plan

After deciding the strategy and personnel plan of the company, the next step is to develop a detailed map about the financial projections covering all aspects of the company. Just like the planning of other aspects, you must prepare a financial plan before you start thinking about how to start graphic design business . The financial plan should craft a detailed map about the cost of startup, inventory, payroll, equipment, rent, utilities and how these costs will be covered by the earned profits. So, before starting a graphic design business , make sure to carry out a detailed profit and loss analysis. The company financial plan outlines the development of the company over the next three years and is specifically developed to achieve both the company’s short-term and long-term objectives.

9.1 Important Assumptions

The company’s financial projections are forecasted on the basis of following assumptions. These assumptions are quite conservative and are also expected to show deviation but to a limited level such that the company’s major financial strategy will not be affected.

9.2 Brake-even Analysis

The following graph shows the company’s Brake-even Analysis.

The following table shows the company’s Brake-even Analysis.

9.3 Projected Profit and Loss

The following charts show the company’s expected Profit and Loss situation on the monthly and yearly basis.

9.3.1 Profit Monthly

The following graph shows the monthly profit, as forecasted by the company’s financial experts.

9.3.2 Profit Yearly

The following graph shows the yearly profit, as forecasted by the company’s financial experts.

9.3.3 Gross Margin Monthly

The following graph shows the monthly gross margin, as forecasted by the company’s financial experts.

9.3.4 Gross Margin Yearly

The following graph shows the yearly gross margin, as forecasted by the company’s financial experts.

The following table shows detailed information about profit and loss, and total cost of sales.

9.4 Projected Cash Flow

The following column diagram shows the projected cash flow.

9.5 Projected Balance Sheet

The following table shows detailed data about pro forma cash flow, subtotal cash from operations, subtotal cash received, sub-total spent on operations, subtotal cash spent. The following projected balance sheet shows data about total current assets, total long-term assets, total assets, subtotal current liabilities, total liabilities, total capital, total liabilities and capital.

9.6 Business Ratios

The following table shows data about business ratios, ratio analysis, total assets, net worth.

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Graphic Design Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business Plans » Arts & Craft Sector

Are you about starting a graphic design business ? If YES, here’s a complete sample graphic design business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE to raise money .

Look around you and you will see graphics all around you; from the television, to the internet and then to the books. Truth remains that graphics will continue to get all the attention it gets now because of the creativity involved in the profession.

Those who are in the trade know that one of the things that make one stand out is the level of creativity one is able to bring to the table.

The graphics industry is vastly becoming a saturated one as more and more people are beginning to take to the trade.  This is because of the profitability that it assures. If you are a graphic designer, there is no limit to the amount you can make as a professional- especially if you know how to generate doable business ideas.

The truth is that many talented graphic designers (graphic artist) gets stranded because they lack innovative ideas to transform their talents (skills) into a money making venture.

The fact that you are a graphic designer does not in any way restrict you to a certain way of doing business. First and foremost, you must have mastered the skill, and then you should look outside the box. Looking outside the box could mean that you should also acquire complementary skills like video editing and video coverage skills et al.

The bottom line is that if you want to make more money as a graphic designer, then you should be ready to go out of your way to develop innovative business ideas that is in sync with your skills; ideas that won’t take you too far from your core area of business. This is also  where having a detailed business plan comes in.

A Sample Graphic Design Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The graphics design business has really opened up over the years and this can be especially attributed to the advent of the internet. A whole lot of things have really caused the business to really boom and in turn attract people to start the trade as well.

The advent of personal computers no doubt gave leverage to the graphic design industry, it is now easier for graphics designer to carry out their jobs from the comfort of their homes with ease and accuracy in terms of designs specifications and color combinations et al. Graphic design can be categorized under the visual and communication arts industry.

Everyone will quite agree that the graphic design industry has come to stay and of course it is one industry that plays key roles- not only in the business world, but also in nearly all the aspects of what goes around in our world today. For instance; organizations with top notch logos would have hired the services of a graphic artist.

As a matter of fact, the services of graphic artists are needed in branding, print advertisement, the publication industry (books, magazines and newspapers et al), handbills, posters, billboards, websites, product packaging and in other areas.

One of the good things about this business remains the fact that you can start by acquiring a skill in the business and then begin to horn your creativity skills in the industry. There are a thousand and one schools both offline and on line that offers trainings. All that is therefore needed to be done is to be really attentive so that one can get all the rudiments of the art right.

Over the years, the graphic design industry has experienced tremendous growth; from the use of crayons, colors, paints, markers and pencil, to the use of desktop publishing and graphic art software. Beyond every reasonable doubt, a graphic designer cannot be effective and efficient in this dispensation without the use of computers and computer software applications; computer enhanced creative process for graphic artists.

The graphic design industry is undeniably a very large industry and pretty much active in all the parts of the world. Statistics has it that in the united states of America alone, there are 138,035 registered graphic design companies, employing about 172,494 and the industry rakes in about $11bn annually.

The industry is indeed a highly competitive industry, which is why no graphic design company can boast of generating more than 5 percent of the total revenue in the industry.

As a matter of fact, IBIS World has stated that the two biggest graphic design companies have a combined market share of only 5.2 percent. Statistics also has it that 93.2 percent of players in the graphic design industry employ maximum of 10 full – time workers per time.

Over and above, the graphic design industry is very open to aspiring entrepreneurs who have the required skills to start his or her own graphic design business and of course make good money from the industry. As a matter of fact, it was projected that over the next five years, new technology will continue to emerge that will make it easier for more players to come into the industry hence increasing the competition in the industry.

2. Executive Summary

Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio Is a U.S based but world class graphics design company. We do not have plans to handle things with levity, which is why we have really made it a point of mandate to do all that we are able to We have been able to lock down a standard and well – positioned office facility in a busy business district in Baltimore, the largest city in Maryland.

We are a graphic design company that is set to compete in the highly competitive graphic design industry not only in the United States market, but also in the global market. Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio will be involved in the all aspect of graphic design services- such as Web Design, Print Media Design, Advertising and Corporate Branding, Graphic and Commercial art services, Corporate Identification design services (logos), Cartoons and Animations.

Our business goal is to become one of the leading graphic design companies in the United States and we will make sure that every graphic design jobs that leaves our studio can favorable compete with the best in the industry.

We believe that having the best of employees also have a ways of helping to boost a business. This is one of the reasons why our workers will be selected from a pool of talented and highly creative graphic artists in and around Baltimore and also from any part of the world as the business grows.

We will make sure that we take all the members of our workforce through the required trainings that will position them to meet the expectation of the company and to compete with leading graphic designers in the United States and throughout the globe.

We have put plans in place to build a state of the art graphics studio in Baltimore – Maryland. Our studio will be well equipped and we will ensure that we follow the trend in the industry. At Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio, our client’s best interest come first, and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics.

We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely. We will cultivate a working environment that provides a human, sustainable approach to earning a living, and living in our world, for our partners, employees and for our clients.

Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio is founded by Louis Clinton and his friend and business partner for many years Levi Bradford. They have a combine experience in corporate branding and advertising, cartoon and animations, graphic and commercial art services and print media design.

3. Our Products and Services

Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio was established with the aim of maximizing profits in the graphic design industry. We want to compete favorably with the leading graphics design companies in the United States, which is why we have but in place a competent quality assurance team that will ensure that all our graphic designs and services meet and even surpass our customers’ expectations.

We will work hard to ensure that Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio is not just accepted nationally in the United States of America, but also in other parts of the world. Our products and services are listed below;

• Print Media Design
• Advertising and Corporate Branding
• Graphic and Commercial art services
• Corporate Identification design services
• Creating Illustrations
• Cartoon and Animations (3D et al) Production

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to establish a standard graphic design studio whose services and brand will not only be accepted in the United States of America, but also in other parts of the world.
• We are poised to solve the graphics problems around town.
• Our mission is to provide professional and highly creative graphic design and related services that will assist businesses, individuals and non-profit organizations in promoting their brands.
• We want to build a graphic design company that can favorably compete with other leading brands in the industry.

Our Business Structure

At Louis and Levi, we have structured our business so well so that all and sundry can benefits from Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio. Our business is a graphic design company that intends to   start small in Baltimore, but hope to grow big in order to compete favorably with leading graphic design studios in the industry both in the United States and on a global stage.

We are aware of the importance of building a solid business structure that can support the picture of the kind of world class business we want to own. This is why we are committed to only hire the best hands within our area of operations.

At Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio, we will ensure that we hire people that are qualified, hardworking, creative, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stake holders (the owners, workforce, and customers).

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our senior management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of five years or more as agreed by the board of trustees of the company. In view of the above, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

• Chief Executive Officer
• Creative Director

Human Resources and Admin Manager

• Sales and Marketing Executive
• Graphic Artist
• Cartoon and Animation Specialist

Client Service Executive

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization

Creative Director:

• Serves as project manager of the organization; works directly with employees
• Responsible for designing concepts for advertisements and other promotional needs for client (s)
• In charge of copy writing and laying out chronological advertisement plans
• Develops strategic plan by studying technological and financial opportunities; presenting assumptions; recommending objectives.
• Accomplishes subsidiary objectives by establishing plans, budgets, and results measurements; allocating resources; reviewing progress; making mid-course corrections.
• Coordinates efforts by establishing procurement, production, marketing, field, and technical services policies and practices; coordinating actions with corporate staff.
• Builds company image by collaborating with customers, government, community organizations, and employees; enforcing ethical business practices.
• Maintains quality service by establishing and enforcing organization standards.
• Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; benchmarking state-of-the-art practices; participating in professional societies.
• Make certain that production and development department perform efficiently, coordinate employee efforts, and facilitate communications between management and graphic designer
• Ensures that the organization work in line with international best practices.
• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Defining job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Oversee the smooth running of the daily office and factory activities.
• Makes sure that the smooth and daily cleaning is never compromised.

Sales and Marketing Manager

• Manage external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Models demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customer
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects.
• Writes winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
• Responsible for handling business research, market surveys and feasibility studies for clients
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Creates new markets cum businesses for the organization
• Empowers and motivates the sales team to meet and surpass agreed targets
• Attends really warmly to the clients that come to the office.

Accountant / Cashier:

• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensuring compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for Pick ‘a’ Brain™ Finishing School
• Serves as internal auditor for Pick ‘a’ Brain™ Finishing School

Graphic Designers (2)

• Liaises with clients to determine their requirement and budget
• Responsible for developing concepts, graphics and layouts for product illustrations, company logos, and websites
• Responsible for managing client proposals from typesetting through to design, print and production
• Responsible for reviewing final layout and suggesting improvement if necessary
• Responsible for working with clients, briefing and advising them with regards to design style, format, print production and timescales et al
• Determine size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy, and font style and size
• Responsible for liaising with external printers on a regular basis to ensure deadlines are met and material is printed to the highest quality
• Responsible for preparing drafts or material based on an agreement brief.
• Researches and advice the organization on style, genre and other trendy info as it relates to graphic design.

Cartoon and Animator Specialist (2)

• Responsible for designing models, background, sets, characters, objects and the animation environment
• Works creatively to produce original and aesthetically pleasing designs and solutions
• Uses specialist computer software applications such as Maya, Lightwave, Softimage, Cinema 4D, Flash and After Effects
• Presents designs to customers for evaluation
• Liaises and working effectively with other design and production staff
• Welcomes students and visitors by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with students on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the school coordinator in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the schools’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to students when they make enquiries

6. SWOT Analysis

Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio engaged the services of a core professional in the area of business consulting and structuring to assist our organization in building a well – structured graphic design business that can favorably compete in the highly competitive graphic design industry in the United States and the world at large.

Part of what the team of business consultant did was to work with the management of our organization in conducting a SWOT analysis for Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio. We believe it was really expedient to have only professionals handle this aspect and so we got the best of results.

Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio;

Our core strength lies in the power of our team; our workforce. We have a team of creative and highly proficient graphic designers, a team with excellent qualifications and experience various niche areas in the graphic design industry.

Aside from the synergy that exists in our carefully selected graphic artists our designs and services will be guided by best practices in the industry. We know that with a solid area of strength, we will be able to attract loads of people, who will patronize us.

As a new graphic design company in Baltimore – Maryland, it might take some time for our organization to break into the market and gain acceptance especially from top profile clients in the already saturated and highly competitive graphic design industry; that is perhaps our major weakness. Another weakness is that we may not have the required cash to promote our business the way we would want to.

• Opportunities:

No doubt, the opportunities in the graphic design industry is massive considering the number of individuals and corporate organizations whose businesses depends on the services of graphic artist. As a graphic design company, we are ready to take advantage of any opportunity that is available in the industry.

Therefore, for us to harness what we have, we have to be all hard working so that at the end of the day after putting our best, we will get what we deserve.

Just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing / spending power. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of a new graphic design company in same location where our target market exist and who may want to adopt same Business model like us.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

The trend in the graphic design industry is that the target market keeps expanding, people and organizations are now seeing the need for them to engage the services of graphic designers either in branding or packaging their products and services or in helping them create animations that will help them communicate their brand to a wide range of clients.

For example; politicians no longer rely on graphic artists to design and produce colorful campaign handbills, posters, billboards and other print related campaign materials but also to help them produce animations and cartoons that will help them effectively communicate their message.

Another common trend in the graphic design industry is that, most graphic design firms no longer settle for clients within the location where there physical office is located but also from any part of the world. The truth is that with the advent of the internet, it is now easier for a graphic design company or a graphic designer to work for clients in any part of the world.

A graphic design company can be located in the United States of America and have their biggest client in United Arab Emirates. Many thanks to the power of the internet. Lastly, the graphic design industry will continue to evolve due to the advancement of computer technology and software applications designs et al.

8. Our Target Market

Before starting our graphic design business, we are certain that there is a wide range of both corporate and individual clients who cannot successfully run their businesses without the services of graphic designers. As a matter of fact, without graphic designers branding, publications and animation industry will struggle.

In view of that, we have created strategies that will enable us reach out to various corporate organizations and individual who we know can’t afford to do without our services.

We have conducted our market research and survey and we will ensure that all our graphic design services is well accepted in the marketplace. Below is a list of the people and organizations that we have specifically market our products and services to;

• Banks, Insurance Companies and other related Financial Institutions
• Blue Chips Companies
• Corporate Organizations
• Manufacturers and Distributors
• Real Estate Owners, Developers, and Contractors
• Research and Development Companies
• The Government (Public Sector)
• Schools (High Schools, Colleges and Universities)
• Sport Organizations
• Religious Organizations
• Political Parties
• Television Stations
• Printing Press (Publishing Houses) and Authors
• Branding and Advertising agencies
• Entrepreneurs and Start – Ups

Our Competitive Advantage

No doubt the competition in the graphic design industry is getting stiffer by the day, you have to be highly creative and come up with appealing designs and concepts in order to survive in the industry. The graphic design industry is indeed a very prolific and at the same time a highly competitive industry.

Clients will only hire your services if they know that they can get nothing but the best from you. We are quite aware that to be highly competitive in the graphic design industry means that you are not only expected to be able to deliver consistent and highly creative designs, but you must be able to meet set targets.

No one would want to continue to hire your services if don’t always meet up with the target date of completion of projects.

Our competitive advantage lies in the power of our team; our workforce. We have a team of creative and highly proficient graphic designers, a team with excellent qualifications and experience various niche areas in the graphic design industry.

Aside from the synergy that exists in our carefully selected graphic artists our designs and services will be guided by best practices in the industry.

Lastly, all our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (startups graphic design businesses in the United States) in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our business aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

Sources of Income

Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the graphic design industry and we are going to go all the way to ensure that we do all it takes to meet and surpass the expectations of all our clients.

This is why one of the things that we have done is to identify the areas that we will source out startup funds from. Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio will generate income by offering the following graphic design related services;

10. Sales Forecast

Having good sales is one of the driving forces of our graphics designing business. This is why we are always taking time to do a proper forecast. We know that constantly doing this will help us sit up in the aspects where we may be found wanting.

One thing is certain; there would always be corporate organization and individual who would need the services of graphic design firms.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in graphic design industry and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income / profits from the first six month of operations and grow our graphic design company to enviable heights.

We have been able to critically examine the graphic design market and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projection is based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to similar startups in Baltimore – Maryland.

Below is the sales projection for Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio, it is based on the location of our business and of course the wide range of our services and target market;

• First Year-: $100,000
• Second Year-: $300,000
• Third Year-: $7500, 000

N.B: This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and there won’t be any major competitor offering same graphic services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

We are mindful of the fact that there is stiffer competition in the graphic design industry; hence we have been able to hire some of the best marketing experts to handle our sales and marketing.

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experiences in the graphic design industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be well equipped to meet their targets and the overall business goal of Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio.

Our goal is to grow Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio and to become one of the top 10 graphic design studios in the United States of America which is why we have mapped out strategy that will help us take advantage of the available market and grow to become a major force to reckon with not only in the United States of America but also in other parts of the world.

Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio are set to make use of the following marketing and sales strategies to attract clients;

• Introduce our graphic design company by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to corporate organizations, religious organizations and key stake holders.
• Promptness in bidding for graphic design contracts from the government and other cooperate organizations
• Advertise our business in relevant business magazines, newspapers, TV stations, and radio station.
• List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
• Attend relevant international and local expos, seminars, and business fairs et al
• Create different packages for different category of clients in order to work with their budgets and still deliver excellent design and services
• Leverage on the internet to promote our business
• Engage direct marketing approach
• Encourage word of mouth marketing from loyal and satisfied clients
• Offer Probono services to people who need graphics designing services.
• Hold free graphics training for people who might   want to learn.

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We have been able to work with our in house brand and publicity consultants to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market.

We are set to become the number one choice for both corporate clients and individual clients in the whole of the United States and beyond which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our graphic design company. Below are the platforms we intend to leverage on to promote and advertise Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio;

• Place adverts on both print (newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community based events / programs
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook , twitter, YouTube, Google + et al to promote our services
• Install our BillBoards on strategic locations all around Baltimore – Maryland.
• Engage in road show from time to time in targeted neighborhoods
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas
• Contact corporate organizations by calling them up and informing them of Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio and the services we offer
• List our graphic design company in local directories / yellow pages
• Advertise our graphic design company in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site.
• Ensure that all our staff members wear our branded shirts and all our vehicles are well branded with our company logo et al.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

At Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio we will keep the prices of our services below the average market rate for all of our customers by keeping our overhead low and by collecting payment in advance from corporate organizations who would hire our services. In addition, we will also offer special discounted rates to all our customers at regular intervals.

It is vital we do this so that we do not scare people away with our pricing. We are aware that there are some one-off jobs or government contracts which are always lucrative; we will ensure that we abide by the pricing model that is expected from contractors or organizations that bid for such contracts.

• Payment Options

At Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio, our payment policy will be all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that we will make available to our clients;

• Payment by via bank transfer
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via bank draft
• Payment via mobile money
• Payment with cash

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our plans with little or no itches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

In setting up any business, the amount or cost will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake. If you intend to go big by renting a place, then you would need a good amount of capital as you would need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conducive enough for workers to be creative and productive.

This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your goals, vision and aspirations for your business. The materials and equipment that will be used are nearly the same cost everywhere, and any difference in prices would be minimal and can be overlooked.

As for the detailed cost analysis for starting a graphic design company; it might differ in other countries due to the value of their money. However, this is what it would cost us to setup Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio in the United of America;

• Business incorporation fees in the United States of America will cost – $750.
• The budget for Liability insurance, permits and license will cost – $3,500
• Acquiring an office space or warehouse that will accommodate the number of employees for at least 6 months (Re – Construction of the facility inclusive to fit into the design of our graphic studio) will cost – $150,000.
• Equipping the office (computers, printers, projectors, markers, servers / internet facility, furniture, telephones, filing cabinets, and electronics) will cost – $10,000
• Amount required to purchase the needed software applications – $ 3,500
• Launching an official Website will cost – $500
• Amount need to pay bills and staff members for at least 2 to 3 months – $70,000
• Additional Expenditure such as Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions will cost – $5,000

Going by the report from the market research and feasibility studies conducted, we will need about two hundred and fifty thousand (250,000) U.S. dollars to successfully set – up a medium scale but standard graphic design company firm in the United States of America.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio

Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio is a business that will be owned by Louis Clinton and his friend and business partner for many years Levi Bradford. They are the sole financial of the business which is why they decided to restrict the sourcing of the start – up capital for the business to just three major sources. These are the areas we intend generating our start – up capital;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
• Generate part of the start – up capital from friends and other extended family members
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank (loan facility).

N.B: We have been able to generate about $100,000 (Personal savings $85,000 and soft loan from family members $15,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $150,000 from our bank. All the papers and document has been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

It is easier for businesses to survive when they have steady flow of business deals / customers patronizing their products and services. We are aware of this which is why we have decided to develop a various mobile apps for different clients and for different purposes.

We will also work with corporate clients to help them develop customized mobile apps for their business. We know that if we continue to come up with highly creative and unique graphic designs and excellent job delivery for both businesses and individual, there will be steady flow of income for the organization.

Our key sustainability and expansion strategy is to ensure that we only hire creative, competent and selfless graphic artists and cartoon and animation specialist, create a conducive working environment and employee benefits for our staff members.

In the nearest future, we will give our most dedicated and prolific employees the opportunity to be part owner of the business. We know that if we implement our business strategies, we will achieve our business goals and objectives in record time.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check:>Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Securing a standard office facility for our studio: Completed
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of All form of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating part of the start – up capital from the founders: Completed
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
• Design of Logo for the business: Completed
• Secure trademark for our products: In Progress
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed furniture, office equipment, software applications, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the business: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with vendors and key players in various industries: In Progress

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En       Ru

Constantine Konovalov

Graphic designer

About me     Portfolio

2030 Moscow Metro map

Personal project in collaboration with Natalia Moskaleva ・2021

Creating a Moscow Metro map is one of the most complex design challenges imaginable. The Moscow Metro can be compared to a tangled ball of threads that you have to unravel to figure it out. We designed the map in collaboration with Natasha Moskaleva, based on long-term development plans for the construction of the Metro. It shows what the Moscow Metro will look like in 2030s. More information about the map can be found on the project’s website.

Israeli railways’ map

Personal project・2022

Israeli cities are connected by railroad running along the sea shore. Some cities can only be reached by bus. I designed a new Israeli railways’ map that includes bus routes to major cities with a population of 20 000+ people. The map’s design is based on a classic 45-degree graphic grid. The geography of the country is simplified to a vertical rectangular format bounded by the Jordan River on the right and with the Mediterranean Sea shore on the left. For the convenience of the users the distance between the stations roughly corresponds to the real map. This allows the cities within agglomerations to be visually combined together. Permanent routes are visually separated from those that only run during the rush hour or on a special schedule. The map also shows shorter versions of each route within every line, which is not represented on the official map. 

The Map of Tel Aviv Metropolitan Transportation System

For Metropolitan Mass Transit System Ltd (NTA) In collaboration with Daria Vinokurova  ・2023

A new transportation system is under construction in Tel Aviv, consisting of three subway lines and three light rail lines. It will connect Tel Aviv with the rest of Dan area through fast and comfortable public transportation. The project is very ambitious and highly anticipated in Israel. NTA, the company in charge of its design and construction, approached us for a new map of the system that would clearly and vividly show its structure to future users. The map represents the final state of the system. By the time the map was created, the red line had already been built and was being prepared for launch, and the green and purple lines were under construction.

Night bus routes map

For the Department of Transportation of Moscow・2016—2022

Since the Moscow Metro does not work at night, night bus routes were launched in 2013 as an alternative. The route network partly duplicates the Metro lines: 14 routes depart from the city centre and go to the residential areas, and one extra circle route goes around the centre along the Garden Ring.

Striving to improve the readability of the map, I simplified the geometry of the city by straightening the lines just like it was done on the Metro map, so I got 14 rays diverging from the centre. In the centre of the map, I worked out the geometry, so that a complex interchange area looked as simple and impressive as possible. 

New Paris Metro map

Personal project・2013—2016

In 2013, I lived in Paris for several months and fell in love with the Paris Metropolitaine — it is old but so cozy. I disliked the official metro map of the Paris subway. I found it chaotic and complicated, so I decided to draw my own version of the map. The project took about 2.5 years. In my free time, I tested various map design approaches. As a result, I got a map with a round circle line and a unique graphic grid of 60°.

Many Parisians liked the map; people buy it to hang on walls of their homes. The map’s website is visited daily by thousands of Parisians and visitors to the city who need to plan their journey. I wrote a big article about the map’s design process for Smashing Magazine. While working on this project, I truly fell in love with the process of transit map design.

Pictograms of Moscow

Personal project ・2017—2020

Moscow offers a huge variety of attractions of different historical eras. I drew about 100 of the most recognisable buildings of the city in a uniform style. Today these pictograms are used on Moscow maps, transit schemes and other elements of wayfinding. While working on the project, I tried to preserve the recognisable proportions of the buildings and to convey the details. The uniformity of the pictograms makes it practical to use the entire set in various projects. Thanks to their conciseness and easy recognition, they look extra good in small size on maps, diagrams and similar formats.

Moscow Metro logo

For th e Mo scow Metro・2013—2014 In collaboration with Art.Lebedev Studio

The Moscow Metro’s logo in the form of a letter “M” emerged simultaneously with the opening of the subway in 1935, but for a long time there was no standardised; in fact, the logo changed its shape often and quite chaotically. I conducted the research and studied the history of the Metro symbol, and later we designed a standardised logo based on the historical image of the symbol in collaboration with Art.Lebedev Studio. The updated sign became the official logo of the Moscow Metro. I described the design process in detail at the Art.Lebedev Studio website.

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For the Department of Transportation of Moscow・2018

In 2019, the Moscow Central Diameters were launched in Moscow. It is an analogue to Berlin’s S-Bahn or Parisian RER: pre-existing railway lines are integrated into the subway system to improve transit connectivity between the central city and the suburbs. I designed an official logo for the new service.

Signs for the MCD lines

For the Department of Transportation of Moscow In collaboration with Natalia Moskaleva・2019

The new MCD service needed not only a logo, but also the signs to indicate five new lines. The goal was to design signs that will blend in with the icons of the metro lines, but at the same time stand out to show that the MCD is a separate entity. Graphically, the signs are similar to the MCD logo due to the same shape, so it is easier for passengers to understand what service they represent. We selected unique colours for the signs that have not yet been used on the metro map. We also studied the prospects of the development of the subway system in order to choose the right colours so that lines with similar colours don’t intersect with each other on the map in the future.

Photos: Sasha Derivanov

Pedestrian wayfinding in Moscow

In collaboration with the team of the Department of Transportation of Moscow・2016—2018

In 2016, we designed the pedestrian wayfinding stands in collaboration with the team of the Department of Transportation of Moscow. The stands contain all the information needed by tourists or Muscovites in an unfamiliar area.

Detailed large-scale maps showing the surrounding area are always rotated to match the direction of sight. This allows to quickly orient yourself in space without thinking where north and west are. We created stands of different widths for various streets: narrow stands are used on small streets not to interfere with the passage, and wide “queen size” stands with a huge map are placed on the squares and in the parks, allowing to plan the most complex route.

Nowadays there are more than 1000 wayfinding stands in this design installed in the streets of Moscow.

Photos: Alexey Solnyshkov

Design for the GULAG History Museum

For several years, I had been doing projects for the GULAG History Museum in Moscow. I visualised complex historical data both for the museum’s exposition and for external projects related to the history of Stalin’s repressions.

The map of the resettlements of the peoples

When talking about the repressions in the USSR, we usually recall either the GULAG camps or the mass executions in the 1930s. However, another important component of the repressive machine of the era were the forced resettlements of the peoples. The relocations took place against the will of the people, based on their ethnicity, social class or political views. It was almost impossible to show the full scale of the migrations in a single frame (too many episodes of the resettlements happened simultaneously), so I decided to make a visual animation. Dots flash chronologically on the USSR’s map showing when and where people were forcibly resettled. The radius of the starting point represents the scale of the event: the more people were relocated, the larger the circle is. The map is part of the permanent exhibition of the museum.

The map of the GULAG camps

I visualised the geography of the forced labour camps in the USSR during the Stalin era in collaboration with the GULAG History Museum scientific team.

We collected data on the largest camps, each confining 5000+ people at a time. In order for the museum’s visitors to better understand the scale of the tragedy, I visualised the population of each camp based on the data from the museum’s scientific department. The red line at each camp represents the number of prisoners: the longer it is, the more people there were. We mounted the map in a way that the visitors can come close to it, find the city of interest and the camps next to it. 

Two years later, we decided to convert the map to a digital format so that everyone could have access to the data online. In collaboration with the team of developers and map specialists form URBICA, we designed a website with a digital map of the camps. We added data on the number of the deaths in the camps and a timeline that allows to learn about the scale of the camp system throughout the years.

Interactive website with a map of GULAG camps

A fragment of the exposition of the GULAG History Museum that shows how the radical statements of the leaders of the Great October Revolution of 1917 gradually made way for the legal acts, and later for the repressive Stalinist laws of the 1930–1950s. On a large wall, we mounted quotes of political figures and fragments of legal documents in a chronological order. The most stringent laws that included long terms of imprisonment, exile of relatives and the death penalty as punishments, are placed on the right. The plaques are interconnected with red threads showing how particular statements and events could make way for the particular laws in the future. We used threads as the most appropriate visualisation of how political views and decisions of the leaders can lead to mass repressions against their own people.

The legal basis of the repressions in the USSR

In collaboration with  Dasha Vinokurova

Stop-motion animation

In collaboration with Irina Neustroeva, we founded a video production studio Teeter-Totter-Tam, where I used to shoot commercials and festival videos in a frame-by-frame and time-lapse animation techniques. From 2010 to 2018, we shot several works that participated in 40+ festivals and shows around the world. Stop-motion animation is a fairly complex process that requires attention to detail: each frame is a separate photograph, and fast-forwarding frames creates an illusion of objects coming to life.

More projects

I described the most significant and interesting projects in detail on this page above. But there were lots of other fun projects.

Today I live in Israel, but for almost all my life I lived in Moscow, hence there are so many projects about this city in my portfolio. I love to work on large and complex projects in the fields of pubic transport and museum design.

Work experience: Freelancer 2017 — Now

Art director at the GULAG History Museum 2015 — 2017

Lead designer at the Department of Transportation of Moscow 2014 — 2016

Designer at Art.Lebedev Studio 2013 — 2014

Animation Director at Tetter-Totter-Tam Animation 2010 — 2018

Education: Bauman Moscow State Technical University Electronic Equipment Design and Technology 2006 — 2012

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