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“LivePlan earns the top spot on our list of best business plan software—and for good reason. LivePlan's slick and interactive service provides a step-by-step business plan approach, a rich collection of cloud-based features, and online learning tools.”

Brooke Hayes Software Reviewer, Business.org

Here's How LivePlan Makes it Surprisingly Simple to Write a Convincing Business Plan

You get a step-by-step process to follow

• Ways to write a pitch that grabs investors' attention
• What to include in your marketing plan
• Every other essential piece of your business plan

“LivePlan saved me a lot of time because the software does so much of the work for you. All you have to do is answer questions and plug in numbers.”

Brian Sung, Eugene, OR Owner of Tailored Coffee

All the financials are calculated for you

LivePlan tells you exactly what kind of financial information you need to enter and then it does all the calculations automatically using built-in formulas. So you end up with razor-accurate financial statements that include all the tables that a lender or investor expects to see.

“Most people are intimidated by the financials, but LivePlan made planning simple, saved me so much time and just knowing that the calculations are correct makes this tool worth every penny!”

Brandie Slaton, Merced, CA Noelle Notals LLC

If you ever get stuck, we'll help you out

Most LivePlan users are able to breeze through their first business plan. But if you ever have a question, there are 3 ways to get advice:

• Call a LivePlan expert at 1-888-498-6136
• Start a chat with our advocacy team. Click here to try it .
• Or refer to more than 550 sample plans and tutorial videos built into LivePlan

See how we support our customers

Get Started Risk Free

“LivePlan was user friendly, supportive and provided meaningful guidance all while remaining very flexible.”

Freja Nelson, Oregon Freja Foods

Get a Polished Business Plan That Will Impress Lenders

Once your plan is done, you can:

• Customize the look of your plan using 10 beautiful document themes
• Download your plan as a PDF or Word doc so you share it easily
• Print out your plan to get a clean, professional document

See inside a completed plan »

Join over 1 million entrepreneurs who found success with LivePlan

35-day money back guarantee. Start planning for $20 per month.

“LivePlan is incredibly simple and easy to use. The financial sales forecasting tool is very intuitive and makes writing a business plan more fun.”

Helga Douglas Owner, Svala

LivePlan Also Gives You Tools to Help Your New Business Succeed

Access Essential Business & Legal Form Templates

Search our library of hundreds of legal forms that cover credit applications, contractor agreements, employee contracts and more.

Get Insights That Will Help Your Company Grow

Are you charging enough? Will you meet your revenue goals? LivePlan's forecasting tool can answer these type of questions at a glance.

See How You Stack Up Against Competitors

Plug in your industry and where you're located, and LivePlan will tell you how you're doing compared to businesses just like yours.

You Might Be Surprised By What New Business Owners Have Achieved with LivePlan

E'a williams, be fit tri wellness, chicago, il.

“Once the investor saw the plan, he believed in it. The interface was fresh and lively. The program gave wonderful examples of what should be in the different sections. I was able to take bits and pieces of those examples, but when I finished each section it sounded like I had written it. “I could just plug in information without having to do any of the math. That saved a lot of work. It made it very easy to get the business plan done. Once the investor saw my business plan on LivePlan, he immediately got back to me and said, ‘I'm in.’”

Mandie O'Neill

Lucky dog daycare, eugene or.

“LivePlan made an overwhelming task easy. LivePlan is incredibly easy to use. LivePlan's web-based nature allows me to log in anywhere (for me it was with my Mac Book Pro or iPad). At times writing a business plan can be a overwhelming task, especially when it comes to formatting and layout. LivePlan has made it easy to focus on putting your business ideas and goals on paper instead of fussing with all the other pesky stuff. I really liked how each section is defined and gives examples of what a quality business plan should look like.”

Rachid Tajiouti

Olive oil usa, llc, new york, ny.

“I've raised $3M so far with LivePlan! I needed to write a business plan for my investors. I was going nuts trying to create charts and properly format them. Then a friend recommended LivePlan! The financials were so easy to use and I liked knowing the calculations were all correct. It helped me create a precise plan to confidently share with investors, and I've raised $3M so far!”

Our customers give LivePlan 5 out of 5 stars

Software is professional and user-friendly. Highly recommend to any Entrepreneur. Would not be where I am today without LivePlan.

Mar. 15, 2024

I've been using LivePlan to help me write top-tier business plans over the last 2 years. A prominent business plan writing company referred me to this site to help me produce the best business plans, to collaboratively support their clients. I've consistently had the best customer service, whether by email or live chat. Rapid responses that are helpful and this is one of the "hand-down" best platforms if you're looking for high-quality products and services - and AMAZING customer service. The price of the plan subscription is a tiny drop in the ocean compared to the results I've had with business plans created through LivePlan. Thank you for the products and services here that help me present well

Feb. 29, 2024

I've used Liveplan for two projects and I have been happy with both experiences. I've needed support twice and both experiences were quickly resolved using the chat function. I'd highly recommend Liveplan to anyone wanting to get serious about new projects. They have great customer support, and it can be a vital tool to anyone wanting to build something from the ground up.

Feb. 20, 2024

I needed a business plan for a government grant and the platform helped me tremendously. It was super organized with all the touchpoints I had to fill and the AI for improving the texts was also amazing. I did a finance plan a well and I had no clue beforehand in how to do it and that was excellent and everything I needed to submit a full case! I finished my plan and submitted it. I will definitely use it again for when i need another business plan. Thank you

Feb. 3, 2024

Extremely user friendly. I appreciated how intuitive it was and useful when I got stuck or when wanting to rephrase sections - AI was a true support for me then

Sep. 26, 2023

LivePlan helps put your ideas and beliefs on paper in a professional & organized manner. It guides you through planning, organizing, and monitoring your plan.

Sep. 2, 2023

I didn't only get value for the money paid but also got the best customer service experience as well. And of course, I'm sticking to LivePlan forever.

IsefConsult

Aug. 14, 2023

Using LivePlan since March 2015, I've created precise financial plans and business strategies for ventures of all sizes. It's the perfect tool for rapid evaluation, eliminating the risk of spreadsheet errors.

Jul. 7, 2023

It's a great Financial planning software. It can also sync with Xero and Quickbooks.

Jun. 17, 2023

If you are looking to create a Business Plan then don't waste any time, buy LivePlan as it will make your life so much easier and save you days of work!

Jun. 28, 2022

A great tool for entrepreneurs with non-finance backgrounds. We all have business ideas but long-term planning is a challenge. LivePlan makes it simple and easy.

Jun. 24, 2022

I had put off writing a plan because I dreaded the research and didn't really know what I was doing. Because of you, I now have a comprehensive, professional-looking business plan.

May 24, 2022

Overall experience with LivePlan is awesome. Very informative and easy to read. Plans come with templates and other examples you can use to build your plan.

Deonta from Texas

May 11, 2022

The best part for me is the feeling of confidence it gave me. It really made me feel like my goals and even dreams were actually possible to reach.

Mar. 29, 2022

LivePlan was a lifesaver when starting our business! It helped us make a business plan and financial projections to show others, and everyone was blown away.

The Silver Fern Shop

Jan. 27, 2022

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• LivePlan Review 2024

Is It the Best Business Plan Software?

• Resources For Planning A Business

Last Updated: January 23, 2024 By TRUiC Team

If you're an entrepreneur, one of the most important parts of starting a business is  writing a business plan ; however, you may need a step-by-step process to help lead your small business to success. That’s where  LivePlan  comes in.

Created by Palo Alto Software, LivePlan is a cloud-based  business plan software that walks you through the entire planning process. With video tutorials and examples at each section, it helps you write a solid business plan in half the time.

Read our LivePlan review to discover the pricing and features that set the tool apart, compare customer reviews, and more. By the end, you’ll know if it is the best business planning software for you.

Recommended: Transform your idea into an investor-ready business plan—Try LivePlan today and save 40% on an annual subscription!

Pros & Cons of LivePlan

Pros of liveplan.

• You don’t need prior experience with professional business planning because the LivePlan software is designed for startups and entrepreneurs who don’t have the time or budget for collegiate-style planning.
• According to many positive online LivePlan reviews, customers are incredibly satisfied with the business plan software.
• LivePlan’s user-friendly website makes it easy to focus and build presentation-ready plans. Also because it’s cloud-based, you can trust LivePlan to keep your data safe and 100% accessible.
• LivePlan provides elegant and fully-customizable template themes you can brand so your business plan looks amazing in presentations with investors, potential partners, lending institutions, etc.
• LivePlan allows you to easily import financial data from other platforms like QuickBooks and Xero…a big time-saver that gives you the peace of mind everything is importing correctly.
• With an annual subscription to LivePlan, you get access to tons of legal forms, fantastic educational e-books, and even an employee handbook template. Their system is set up so the more LivePlan features you add, the less it costs, which is awesome.
• LivePlan sports a great suite of collaboration tools for you and your small business team members. For example, LivePlan locks any section a team member is working on to prevent two users from editing the same section at the same time.

Cons of LivePlan

• You have to be connected to the Internet to use LivePlan. Cloud-based computing does still have its downsides.
• While you can develop more than one business plan using LivePlan, there is no way to copy an existing plan.

Should You Use LivePlan?

If it feels like LivePlan is the right choice, start to plan, pitch, and track your business with it today! And if you end up not liking LivePlan as much as we do, just ask for a refund within 35 days.

Get Started

LivePlan Pricing

It would be tough for LivePlan pricing to get any more straightforward, and you don't have to worry about any hidden fees. Here are the following LivePlan pricing packages that entrepreneurs and small businesses can choose from:

• Standard Monthly Subscription: Pay as you go for $15/month for first 3 months, then $20/month after
• Premium Monthly Subscription: Pay as you go for $30/month for first 3 months, then $40/month after
• Purchase a Standard annual subscription for $12/month 
• Purchase a Premium annual subscription for $24/month 

You can save 40% if you choose an annual plan. Go with whichever package you feel most comfortable with. Either way, you have 35 days to try the business planning software and explore everything it’s capable of.

With every pricing package, you'll gain access to a variety of LivePlan features, such as over 500 sample business plans, automatic financials, and more.

A Quick Look at LivePlan's Features

There are a multitude of helpful LivePlan features that guide entrepreneurs through structuring and writing a business plan. In addition to very good technical support, sample plans, and automatic financials, LivePlan offers the following features:

• Online dashboard for tracking information and creating progress reports. Simply use your LivePlan login.
• Step-by-step instructions and video tutorials
• Advice and tips from business plan experts
• Templates for financial information
• Professional business plan themes
• Tools for team collaboration
• QuickBooks and Xero integration

Granted this is just a tip of the iceberg of LivePlan features, but our favorites for getting a clean and effective business plan built as quick as possible.

LivePlan Reviews

What LivePlan review would be complete without customer testimonials? Below is a sampling of the huge growing reservoir of feedback from happy users. We didn’t cherry-pick either, as you’ll see on Shopper Approved , a third-party customer review site where LivePlan scores a 4.8/5. As of 2023, LivePlan now has over 1,500 customer reviews on Shopper Approved.

According to many LivePlan reviews, there’s some serious value in the business plan software. Customers often mention how LivePlan helps entrepreneurs and small businesses better manage, prioritize, and present a successful business plan. In regard to the non-5 star reviews, the main issue people are having is the overall LivePlan pricing, which is understandable if you’re starting a business on a budget.

"This was a wonderful tool for creating my business plan. I was overwhelmed by all of the online templates that offered no real guidelines for completing my plan. Liveplan was simple to navigate and offered “real life” examples in each section of the plan builder. I completed my plan quickly and now have a professional document that I am thrilled with! ”

"LivePlan was a great tool to use for building a Business Plan. It helped me, as a first-time business plan writer – because it outlined all the sections of the plan and gave detailed instructions and examples for each part. The financials part was great because it automatically generated graphs and charts for the financial planning of my company. ”

"LivePlan was a life-saver for me. I work for a non-profit whose potential funders require a business plan. I had no idea what a business plan looked like or even where to start, when I found LivePlan, I knew I hit the jackpot. With the examples, samples, and easy plug-in information areas, we wrote a plan that not only looks professional but meets all of the needs of the organization and our funders. I couldn’t be more grateful for everything LivePlan did for me/us. I will use LivePlan again for any other business plans I write and will certainly recommend them. Thank you LivePlan! ”

"It’s by far one of the best business plan software products that I’ve come to find. It’s very self-explanatory and user friendly. I would recommend Liveplan to anyone looking for a comprehensive business plan maker which needs to impress and get the results you are looking to achieve. ”

LivePlan also features several verified customer reviews on its website. Here are a couple more examples:

"LivePlan has reinvented business planning. It's the only tool that helps entrepreneurs track their progress with a unique dashboard specifically designed for small business."

"I needed to write a business plan for my investors. I was going nuts trying to create charts and properly format them. Then a friend recommended LivePlan! The financials were so easy to use and I liked knowing the calculations were all correct."

"I didn't only get value for the money paid but also got the best customer service experience as well. And of course, I'm sticking to LivePlan forever."

Frequently Asked Questions

What is liveplan.

LivePlan is business management software created by Palo Alto Software to help entrepreneurs and small business owners develop business plans, financial projections, and performance tracking.

How does LivePlan work?

LivePlan works through a step by step process, guiding users through customizable templates to create professional business plans. Users input their business's financial data, product plans, marketing strategies etc. and LivePlan uses the data to create a structured business plan document with projections, graphs, financial models and performance analytics.

What businesses does LivePlan work with?

LivePlan boasts over 500 sample plans, covering just about every business model imaginable. From mom-and-pops to larger corporations, from freelancers to nonprofit entities, LivePlan really does cover every possible base.

Does LivePlan have any hidden fees?

There are up-charges for premium features like the ability to simultaneously edit multiple business plans. But, LivePlan clearly communicates these from the get-go. Also, most people probably won’t need them because they’re working on one plan at a time.

How do I cancel my LivePlan subscription?

Within the first 35 days, if you decide you’d rather not use LivePlan after all contact them via their app, by email or by phone. They’ll cancel your account and refund your money, no questions asked.

How is LivePlan customer support?

LivePlan customer support is surprisingly responsive. Use the site’s live-chat option or give them a call on their toll-free line.

Is LivePlan secure?

LivePlan is about as secure as it gets. Your business plan — and all of the information within — is entirely confidential. All credit card transactions get bank-level encryption treatment. Also, your account and plan are both backed up to the cloud every few seconds, so there’s no chance you’ll ever lose any work.

How much does LivePlan cost?

Here are the LivePlan pricing plans:

• Standard monthly: $15/month for first 3 months, then $20/month after
• Premium monthly: $30/month for first 3 months, then $40/month after
• Standard annual subscription for $12/month 
• Premium annual subscription for $24/month 

We've chosen LivePlan as the best business plan software – it helped us get Startup Savant off the ground. Being able to take our core data and translate it into a beautiful presentation-ready business plan that’s refined and customizable was a lifesaver in so many ways.

If it feels like LivePlan is the right choice, start to plan, pitch and track your business growth with it today. And if you end up not liking LivePlan as much as we do, just ask for a refund within 35 days.

Showcase your startup with confidence — Try LivePlan and create an investor-ready business plan today.

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LivePlan vs Business Plan Pro: The Ultimate Showdown

Embarking on the entrepreneurial journey, you’re faced with countless decisions, but perhaps none as crucial as choosing the right tools to lay your foundation. Enter LivePlan and Business Plan Pro, two giants in the world of business planning. But which one’s the perfect fit for your venture?

LivePlan dazzles with its modern approach, offering cloud-based convenience and real-time collaboration. On the other hand, Business Plan Pro stands its ground with comprehensive features and a traditional desktop setup. It’s a battle of innovation versus reliability, and you’re in the driver’s seat. Let’s dive into what sets these two apart and help you navigate towards the best choice for your business blueprint.

Key Takeaways

• LivePlan offers a modern, intuitive, cloud-based business planning solution with features like real-time collaboration, step-by-step guidance, financial tools, and a wide range of templates, making it suitable for dynamic entrepreneurs seeking flexibility and accessibility.
• Business Plan Pro provides a comprehensive, traditional business planning software experience with detailed financial forecasting tools, access to market research, and over 500 sample business plans, ideal for those who prefer depth, structure, and a desktop-based environment.
• LivePlan’s modern approach caters to the needs of startups and entrepreneurs who require the ability to access and update their business plans from anywhere, emphasizing convenience and adaptability for fast-moving business environments.
• Business Plan Pro’s strength lies in its detailed planning tools and extensive resources, suited for entrepreneurs who prioritize thorough analysis and comprehensive planning over flexibility, particularly those in complex industries requiring detailed projections.
• Choosing between LivePlan and Business Plan Pro depends on your specific business planning needs, priorities (such as cloud-based accessibility vs. detailed financial analysis), and whether your focus is on flexibility and scalability or in-depth, traditional planning.
• Both LivePlan and Business Plan Pro offer unique advantages, and the best choice depends on the entrepreneur’s specific needs, business stage, and planning style, emphasizing the importance of aligning the tool with your business planning objectives and workflow requirements.

LivePlan: A Modern Approach to Business Planning

Embarking on your entrepreneurial journey, you’ve likely realized the importance of a solid business plan. It’s not just a roadmap but a beacon guiding you through the stormy seas of startup life. Enter LivePlan, a beacon of modernity in the traditional world of business planning. Its cloud-based setup means you can access your plan from anywhere, anytime. Imagine tweaking your financial forecasts while sipping coffee at your favorite café or sharing your vision with a potential investor on the fly. That’s the convenience LivePlan offers.

Beyond accessibility, LivePlan shines with its real-time collaboration feature. Gone are the days of back-and-forth emails and the confusion of multiple document versions. You and your team can work on the same document simultaneously. This feature is a godsend for keeping everyone on the same page (literally) and fostering a cohesive strategy. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about efficiency and creating a living document that evolves with your business.

In terms of guidance, LivePlan doesn’t leave you in the dark. It offers step-by-step instructions and examples for each section of your plan. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or new to the game, these tools are invaluable. They demystify the planning process and help you create a document that’s not just functional but compelling.

Moreover, LivePlan is equipped with a slew of financial tools. From profit and loss projections to cash flow analysis, these tools help you create a financial forecast that’s both realistic and robust. For startups especially, having a clear financial pathway is crucial, and LivePlan makes this daunting task approachable.

With its blend of flexibility, collaboration, and in-depth planning tools, LivePlan positions itself as not just a tool but a partner in your entrepreneurial journey. Whether you’re crafting your first business plan or revisiting your strategy for growth, LivePlan adapts to your needs, making it a stellar choice for modern entrepreneurs looking to make their mark.

Business Plan Pro: Comprehensive Features and Traditional Setup

When you dive into the realm of Business Plan Pro , you’re stepping into a world that’s supported numerous entrepreneurs over the years. This software is akin to a tried-and-true friend in the journey of business planning, offering a wealth of features in its traditional, software-based setup.

First off, the depth of Business Plan Pro’s financial forecasting tools is unparalleled. You’ll find yourself navigating through detailed cash flow, profit and loss, and sales forecasting features. These tools are designed to provide an in-depth look at your financial future, giving you the clarity needed to make informed decisions. It’s the sort of comprehensive financial planning that could very well become the backbone of your business strategy.

Then there’s the matter of data. Business Plan Pro doesn’t hold back. It grants access to thousands of industry profiles and market research data that can be pivotal in shaping your business plan. Imagine having a library of information at your fingertips, ready to bolster your business proposal with solid facts and figures.

Yet, it’s important to note, the software operates on a downloadable basis . Unlike LivePlan’s cloud-based accessibility, Business Plan Pro requires installation on a Windows platform. This sets up a different dynamic for your planning process. You’ll have the robust tools you need, but without the same level of flexibility and mobility offered by cloud-based alternatives.

Adapting to the needs of modern entrepreneurs seeking versatility, Business Plan Pro still holds a place for those who appreciate a detailed, static planning environment. The depth of its features makes it a powerful ally for anyone looking to dive deep into the financial and analytical aspects of their business plan.

Features and Benefits of LivePlan

As an entrepreneur who’s been through the startup ringer and experimented with various side hustles, I’ve learned that the right tools can make a huge difference. LivePlan stands out in this regard, with features that cater to both budding and seasoned business owners. Here’s a breakdown of what makes LivePlan a worthy consideration for your planning needs.

First off, ease of use can’t be overstated. LivePlan’s interface is intuitive, guiding you through the process of creating your business plan with step-by-step instructions. This simplicity is a lifesaver for those of you juggling the myriad tasks of getting a business off the ground or managing a side hustle along with a full-time job.

Then there’s the pitch feature . It allows you to quickly craft a visually appealing overview of your business idea. This is incredibly useful for attracting investors or getting team members on the same page. It’s like having your elevator pitch and executive summary rolled into one convenient package.

Another standout feature is LivePlan’s financial forecasting . Unlike static tools, LivePlan offers dynamic forecasting that adjusts as you input new data. This provides a remarkably clear picture of your financial trajectory, helping you make informed decisions about budget allocation, funding needs, and revenue strategies.

LivePlan also boasts a vast library of business plan templates and examples . Whatever your industry, chances are there’s a template that fits your niche. This is a game-changer for saving time and ensuring that your plan meets industry standards.

Lastly, the Scoreboard feature integrates with accounting software like QuickBooks, giving you real-time insights into how your business is performing against your plan. This can be pivotal for pivoting strategy or reinforcing successful tactics.

Each of these features comes together to offer a robust, flexible platform that’s designed not just for planning, but for achieving. Whether you’re a startup maven or a part-time entrepreneur, LivePlan adapts to your unique journey.

Features and Benefits of Business Plan Pro

As an entrepreneur deeply immersed in the world of online business and startups, you’re likely on a constant hunt for tools that can streamline your planning process and propel your ideas into reality. Business Plan Pro might just be the resource you’ve been searching for. With its comprehensive suite of features designed to simplify business planning, this software has a lot to offer for anyone ready to take their side hustle or startup to the next level.

First off, Business Plan Pro is equipped with 500+ sample business plans . This means you’re never starting from scratch. Whether you’re opening a coffee shop or launching a tech startup, there’s a template that you can customize to fit your vision. This feature not only saves time but also provides a solid foundation for your business plan, ensuring you haven’t missed any critical components.

Another standout feature is its in-depth financial forecasting tools . You can dive deep into cash flow analysis, profit and loss statements, and sales forecasting with ease. For you, this means the ability to create detailed, realistic financial projections, critical for both your strategy and for impressing potential investors.

Here’s a quick snapshot of the core capabilities of Business Plan Pro:

Lastly, Business Plan Pro stands out with its market research access , offering thousands of industry profiles and essential data. This feature enables you to tailor your business plan with specifics of your industry, a crucial step for crafting a strategy that’s both realistic and competitive.

Utilizing Business Plan Pro’s features effectively can empower you to create a well-researched, detailed business plan. For someone passionate about turning ideas into successful ventures, this tool offers a robust platform to support your entrepreneurial journey.

Choosing the Right Business Planning Tool

Deciding between LivePlan and Business Plan Pro is like choosing between two top-tier tools, each with its own strengths. Your selection hinges on what aspects of business planning you prioritize and how those tools align with your goals.

LivePlan shines with its modern, intuitive interface and emphasis on step-by-step planning. Its features are geared towards dynamic businesses looking for flexibility and scalability. If you’re diving into various side hustles or want a tool that grows with your evolving online venture, LivePlan might be your go-to. It offers cloud-based functionality, giving you the ability to tweak your plan on the go. This aspect is crucial if you’re always bustling with new ideas or need to present your plan to stakeholders across different locations.

On the other hand, Business Plan Pro stands out with its comprehensive features and extensive library of over 500 sample plans. If you’re someone who loves diving deep into the details, appreciates having numerous templates at your disposal, and wants software with robust financial forecasting tools, Business Plan Pro could be more your speed. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer a more structured approach to business planning or are working on a complex project requiring detailed analysis.

When considering these tools, reflect on your business stage, type, and needs:

• Are you looking for simplicity and accessibility or detailed, in-depth planning tools?
• Do you need cloud access to your plan from anywhere, or do you prefer a desktop application?
• How important are industry-specific templates and market research to you?

Remember, your choice of a business planning tool can significantly influence how efficiently you can bring your business vision to life. Whether you lean towards the sleek flexibility of LivePlan or the detailed, comprehensive toolkit of Business Plan Pro, ensure it aligns with your workflow, planning style, and the specific demands of your venture.

Choosing between LivePlan and Business Plan Pro boils down to your specific needs and how you envision managing your business plan. If you’re leaning towards a more intuitive, cloud-based solution that grows with your business, LivePlan might be your best bet. Its modern interface and step-by-step guidance are perfect for those who appreciate a bit of hand-holding along the way. On the flip side, if you’re after a tool that offers a wealth of features and detailed financial forecasting, Business Plan Pro could be the way to go. Its comprehensive approach and extensive resources are ideal for those who prefer to dive deep into the planning process. Remember, the right tool is the one that aligns with your business strategy and simplifies your planning process. Happy planning!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between business plan pro and liveplan.

Business Plan Pro is known for its comprehensive features, large library of sample plans, and robust financial tools, catering to those who prefer a traditional, detailed approach. In contrast, LivePlan boasts a modern interface, step-by-step planning assistance, and cloud-based functionality, making it well-suited for dynamic, on-the-go businesses.

Which tool is better for someone who prefers an in-depth business planning approach?

Business Plan Pro is the better option for individuals seeking an in-depth, structured approach to business planning due to its extensive features and comprehensive financial forecasting tools.

Is LivePlan suitable for users who prefer cloud-based tools?

Yes, LivePlan is highly suitable for users who prefer cloud-based tools. Its cloud accessibility allows for dynamic business planning and collaboration from anywhere, making it ideal for modern, flexible business operations.

Can I find industry-specific templates in either of these tools?

Yes, both Business Plan Pro and LivePlan offer industry-specific templates. However, the number and variety of these templates may vary, so it’s essential to check which tool better suits your specific industry needs.

Which tool is recommended for beginners without much experience in business planning?

LivePlan is generally recommended for beginners due to its intuitive, step-by-step guidance and modern interface, which simplifies the business planning process.

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John Prince

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8 Business Plan Templates You Can Get for Free

8 min. read

Updated April 10, 2024

A business plan template can be an excellent tool to simplify the creation of your business plan. 

The pre-set structure helps you organize ideas, covers all critical business information, and saves you time and effort on formatting.

The only issue? There are SO many free business plan templates out there. 

So, which ones are actually worth using? 

To help remove the guesswork, I’ve rounded up some of the best business plan templates you can access right now. 

These are listed in no particular order, and each has its benefits and drawbacks.

What to look for in a business plan template

Not all business plan templates are created equal. As you weigh your options and decide which template(s) you’ll use, be sure to review them with the following criteria in mind:

• Easy to edit: A template should save you time. That won’t be the case if you have to fuss around figuring out how to edit the document, or even worse, it doesn’t allow you to edit at all.
• Contains the right sections: A good template should cover all essential sections of a business plan , including the executive summary, product/service description, market/competitive analysis, marketing and sales plan, operations, milestones, and financial projections. 
• Provides guidance: You should be able to trust that the information in a template is accurate. That means the organization or person who created the template is highly credible, known for producing useful resources, and ideally has some entrepreneurial experience.
• Software compatibility: Lastly, you want any template to be compatible with the software platforms you use. More than likely, this means it’s available in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or PDF format at a minimum. 

1. Bplans — A plan with expert guidance

Since you’re already on Bplans, I have to first mention the templates that we have available. 

Our traditional and one-page templates were created by entrepreneurs and business owners with over 80 years of collective planning experience. We revisit and update them annually to ensure they are approachable, thorough, and aligned with our team’s evolving best practices.  

The templates, available in Word, PDF, or Google Doc formats, include in-depth guidance on what to include in each section, expert tips, and links to additional resources. 

Plus, we have over 550 real-world sample business plans you can use for guidance when filling out your template.

Download: Traditional lender-ready business plan template or a simple one-page plan template .

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2. SBA — Introduction to business plans

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers two different business plan templates along with a short planning guide. 

While not incredibly in-depth, it’s enough to help you understand how traditional and lean plans are structured and what information needs to be covered. The templates themselves are more like examples, providing you with a finished product to reference as you write your plan.

The key benefit of using these templates is that they were created by the SBA. While they may provide less guidance, you can be assured that the information and structure meet their expectations.

Explore: The SBA’s planning guide and free templates

3. SCORE — Planning workbook

SCORE’s template is more like a workbook. It includes exercises after each section to help you get your ideas down and turn them into a structured plan.

The market research worksheets are especially useful. They provide a clear framework for identifying your target market and analyzing competitors from multiple angles. Plus, they give you an easy way to document all the information you’re collecting.

You will likely have to remove the exercises in this template to make it investor-ready. But it can be worth it if you’re struggling to get past a blank page and want a more interactive planning method.

Download: SCORE’s business plan template

4. PandaDoc — A template with fillable forms

PandaDoc’s library offers a variety of industry-specific business plan templates that feature a modern design flair and concise instructions. 

These templates are designed for sharing. They include fillable fields and sections for non-disclosure agreements, which may be necessary when sending a plan to investors.  

But the real benefit is their compatibility with PandaDoc’s platform. Yes, they are free, but if you’re a PandaDoc subscriber, you’ll have far more customization options. 

Out of all their templates, the standard business plan template is the most in-depth. The rest, while still useful, go a bit lighter on guidance in favor of tailoring the plan to a specific industry.

Explore: PandaDoc’s business plan template library  

5. Canva — Pitch with your plan

Canva is a great option for building a visually stunning business plan that can be used as a pitch tool. It offers a diverse array of templates built by their in-house team and the larger creative community, meaning the number of options constantly grows.

You will need to verify that the information in the template you choose matches the standard structure of a traditional business plan. 

You should do this with any template, but it’s especially important with any tool that accepts community submissions. While they are likely reviewed and approved, there may still be errors.

Remember, you can only edit these templates within Canva. Luckily, you only need a free subscription, and you may just miss out on some of the visual assets being used. 

To get the most value, it may be best to create a more traditional planning document and transfer that information into Canva. 

Explore: Canva’s business plan gallery

6. ClickUp — The collaborative template

Out of all the project management tools that offer free business plan templates, ClickUp’s is the most approachable.

Rather than throwing you into all the features and expecting you to figure it out—ClickUp provides a thorough startup guide with resource links, images, and videos explaining how to write a plan using the tool. 

There’s also a completed sample plan (structured like an expanded one-page plan) for you to reference and see how the more traditional document can connect to the product management features. You can set goals, target dates, leave comments, and even assign tasks to someone else on your team. 

These features are limited to the ClickUp platform and will not be useful for everyone. They will likely get in the way of writing a plan you can easily share with lenders or investors. 

But this is a great option if you’re looking for a template that makes internal collaboration more fluid and keeps all your information in one place.

Sign Up: Get a free trial of ClickUp and explore their template library

7. Smartsheet — A wide variety of templates

I’m including Smartsheet’s library of templates on this list because of the sheer number of options they provide. 

They have a simple business plan template, a one-page plan, a fill-in-the-blank template, a plan outline, a plan grading rubric, and even an Excel-built project plan. All are perfectly usable and vary in visual style, depth of instructions, and the available format.

Honestly, the only drawback (which is also the core benefit) is that the amount of templates can be overwhelming. If you’re already uncertain which plan option is right for you, the lengthy list they provide may not provide much clarity.

At the same time, it can be a great resource if you want a one-stop shop to view multiple plan types.

Explore: Smartsheet’s business plan template library  

8. ReferralRock affiliate marketing business plan

I’m adding ReferralRock’s template to this list due to its specificity. 

It’s not your standard business plan template. The plan is tailored with specific sections and guidance around launching an affiliate marketing business. 

Most of the template is dedicated to defining how to choose affiliates, set commissions, create legal agreements, and track performance.

So, if you plan on starting an affiliate marketing business or program, this template will provide more specific guidance. Just know that you will likely need to reference additional resources when writing the non-industry sections of your plan.

Download: ReferralRock affiliate marketing business plan template

Does it matter what business plan template you use?

The short answer is no. As long as the structure is correct, it saves you time, and it helps you write your business plan , then any template will work. 

What it ultimately comes down to, is what sort of value you hope to get from the template. 

• Do you need more guidance? 
• A simple way to structure your plan? 
• An option that works with a specific tool?
• A way to make your plan more visually interesting?

Hopefully, this list has helped you hone in on an option that meets one (or several) of these needs. Still, it may be worth downloading a few of these templates to determine the right fit. 

And really, what matters most is that you spend time writing a business plan . It will help you avoid early mistakes, determine if you have a viable business, and fully consider what it will take to get up and running. 

If you need additional guidance, check out our library of planning resources . We cover everything from plan formats , to how to write a business plan, and even how to use it as a management tool . 

If you don’t want to waste time researching other templates, you can download our one-page or traditional business plan template and jump right into the planning process.

See why 1.2 million entrepreneurs have written their business plans with LivePlan

Kody Wirth is a content writer and SEO specialist for Palo Alto Software—the creator's of Bplans and LivePlan. He has 3+ years experience covering small business topics and runs a part-time content writing service in his spare time.

Table of Contents

• Qualities of a good template
• ReferralRock
• Does the template matter?

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How to Pitch Your Business Plan in Just 10 Minutes

D elivering a good pitch for your business is as much about conveying emotion as conveying information. The saying "They don't care what you know until they know that you care" is good advice to follow. A pitch doesn't need to be long, and your audience will appreciate it if you keep the pitch as brief as possible. In the updated second edition of our best-selling book Write Your Business Plan , Eric Butow, CEO of online marketing ROI improvement firm Butow Communications Group, explains how you can put together a pitch in ten minutes that's broken down into one topic every minute.

Order Write Your Own Business Plan Now and Get 1 Month of Free Access to Business Planning Software Liveplan Premium

• Easy step-by-step business plan generator
• Built-in financial calculators
• 500+ sample plans and templates

10-Minute Pitch Planner

• Minute 1: Personal introduction. Let the audience know that you personally care about the people and the problem you are trying to solve.
• Minute 2: State the problem . People with this problem have emotions invested. They may be struggling, irritated, angry, and/ or disenfranchised. Keep human emotions real. Break down the problem into its component parts accompanied by a diagram.
• Minute 3: Present the solution. Show excitement and passion for your business's solution. Walk the audience not only through how the solution works but also through the great benefits of the solution.
• Minute 4: Show your business model. Now is the time to tell the audience how you will make money. Explain how you are going to charge people for the solution you are offering.
• Minute 5: Talk about your competition. Do not talk about how you're better than the competition. Instead, focus on how you're different. Your attitude toward the competition gives the audience a peek into your business soul. Are you dutifully respectful of their presence and power or are you arrogant enough to think your little startup will have no problem beating them? Err on the side of humility.
• Minute 6: Talk about your market and how you'll sell to them . Get excited as you talk about how many potential customers are out there and how you're going to get them. Take the audience through the market data, your chosen point of entry, and your sales and marketing strategy.
• Minute 7: Tell the audience about how much money you'll make . Talk about how selling to your market shows the unit economics of a single customer (price), and the size of the market shows how many potential deals are out there (quantity). Armed with this information, you can describe how revenue builds over time
• Minute 8: Introduce your team. It's important to introduce your team in the context of the business so the audience understands why it is what it is. If you introduce the team up front, you will have to circle back to describe their roles later, which wastes time.
• Minute 9: Prove your business has traction. You need to show results to get investors and customers to buy in. So, answer important questions such as: What has the team accomplished? Does the company have revenue? Are the customers happy?
• Minute 10: Ask for the buy-in. You need to spend the last minute asking for people to buy into your business and your vision, no matter if that's asking investors for money or asking someone to work for you. In this last minute, paint a clear picture of what you need from the audience and what investing with you will look like.

Write Your Own Business Plan is available now at Entrepreneur Bookstore | Barnes & Noble | Amazon

Use as many charts, tables, and other graphic elements as it takes to get your point across. But don't count on lavish visuals to sway a skeptical reader. Some readers actually are put off by plans that seem to be trying to wow them through the presentation.

To dig deeper, buy Write Your Own Business Plan and get 1 month of free access to business planning software Liveplan Premium.

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Reviews of LivePlan

Capterra offers objective, independent research and verified user reviews. We may earn a referral fee when you visit a vendor through our links. Learn more

I liked how the data interacted with itself in the program. The ability for the program to keep track of changes in financial data as well as show the impact of those changes is unmatched.

Easy to use online and has a very good technical support. It is great that they keep your files or give files to you if you decided to cancel the account, that made me trust LivePlan more.

After one year in business, I revisited the plan and saw that my projections on revenue, margins and start up costs were spot on, thanks in part to this great software tool.

The end product is very detailed and professional looking. The best part of the software was the easy walk-through process, it made it very easy to enter data and return to revise it later.

Very limited scope and restricted input space.

I struggled with the financial forecast section. I'm bad with numbers, and really just this part in general, so a little more instruction around this area would have been nice.

Some of the financial portions were limited in the functionality I found I needed.

I needed to write a business plan for my investors. I was going nuts trying to create charts and properly format them.

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