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Business Contract Templates

Use a business contract to specify the terms of a business transaction.

Updated February 12, 2024 Written by Sara Hostelley | Reviewed by Brooke Davis

A business contract is a legal agreement between a buyer and seller of goods or services. Large corporations, smaller entities, and individuals can use this document when making business exchanges.

It should include all details about the exchange, including payment, the type of goods or services, and each party’s responsibilities. This legal document will protect the buyer and seller if the other party doesn’t hold up their end of the agreement.

Is Every Business Agreement a Contract?

Not every business agreement is a contract. However, a business agreement becomes a legal contract when it meets the following four conditions:

• It indicates that the agreement is legally binding.
• It details the exchange of something valuable.
• It involves parties who can understand the agreement’s legal obligations and terms.
• It provides terms with unconditional acceptance.

Types of Business Contracts

What is a business contract, what business contracts does a new company need, how to write a business contract, frequently asked questions.

Explore our free business contract templates to find one that’s right for your situation:

Use a joint venture agreement template to write a contract between two parties entering business together.

Joint Venture Agreement

Use a partnership agreement template to establish the terms of a business partnership.

Partnership Agreement

Write an LLC operating agreement to form your limited liability company and determine how it will conduct itself.

LLC Operating Agreement

Use an employment contract template to establish the conditions of someone else's employment.

Employment Contract

Use an independent contractor agreement to record a relationship between a company and a contractor who works for themselves.

Independent Contractor Agreement

Use a service agreement template to outline all the key information of a service arrangement.

Service Agreement

Use a subcontractor agreement template to establish the relationship between a contractor and subcontractor.

Subcontractor Agreement

Use a sales agreement template to outline all the key information of a purchase of goods.

Sales Agreement

Use a business purchase agreement to record the sale of a business.

Business Purchase Agreement

Use a purchase order to document the details of the goods a buyer purchases from a seller.

Purchase Order

Use a commercial lease agreement to rent property to a tenant so they can conduct business there.

Commercial Lease Agreement

A business contract is a legally binding document where each party agrees to an exchange, typically involving money, goods, or services. Business contracts protect both buyers and sellers by reducing agreements to writing. While you may not need to seek notarization for a business contract, you may still consider it to increase its legitimacy.

Business contracts require an offer, acceptance, consideration, and a meeting of the minds. They can be as long or short as necessary to cover the essential details.

When to Use a Business Contract

Here are some instances when using these legal contracts can be useful:

• Forming partnerships or collaborations
• Transferring business ownership
• Employing staff or hiring independent contractors
• Procuring or vending goods or services
• Renting or leasing commercial property
• Sharing confidential information with partners or employees
• Concluding mergers or acquisitions

When you start a new company, you may need to complete the following documents:

• Incorporation or Formation Documents: Legally establish your business. You may have to file these documents with your state, depending on your jurisdiction and business type.
• Founders’ Agreement : Highlights the duties and roles of each company founder.
• Operating Agreement (for LLCs): Explains the framework for an LLC’s operations.
• Bylaws (for Corporations) : Governs a corporation’s internal management structure.
• Employment Agreement: Establishes the terms of employment. You need to complete this document with each part-time and full-time employee you hire.
• Independent Contractor Agreement: Enter into a relationship with a contractor who provides specialized services on a contractual basis.
• Confidentiality Agreement : Prevents specific parties from sharing confidential information. It helps you protect trade secrets and proprietary information, and it can be unilateral (one-way) or bilateral (two-way).
• Customer Contract: Helps you ensure customers understand both parties’ responsibilities in a client-business relationship.
• Vendor or Supplier Agreement: Helps a business secure the goods it needs to operate and prevent issues that could affect its productivity.
• Commercial Lease Agreement: Rent a property where you can conduct your business.
• Partnership Agreement: Establishes each partner’s rights and responsibilities within a business partnership. It also specifies the type of partnership, whether a general, limited, or limited liability partnership.
• Intellectual Property Assignment Agreement (IPAA): Transfer intellectual property (IP) rights from one entity to another.

Step 1 – Determine Why You Need a Contract

Determine why you need a contract before you write it out. The type of contract you need will determine the details, terminology, and language to include.

For example, some contracts involve exchanging services for payment, while others involve exchanging goods. Seek legal advice from an attorney or another legal expert to ensure you remain in compliance and execute the proper contract.

Step 2 – Define All Relevant Parties

Define all relevant parties in the agreement by providing the following information for each one:

• Business address (or residence address if you’re working with a customer)
• Points of contact (email address, phone number, etc.)
• Payment details and terms
• Deadlines and time limits
• Project requirements and scope of work

Confirm that all individuals signing the contract can serve as their organization or entity’s legal representative. This way, you can prevent issues if any party ever needs to pursue legal action against the other.

Step 3 – Include the Essential Elements of a Contract

All contracts share essential elements to make a legally binding agreement. These elements are the following:

• A valid offer: One party should extend an offer, such as providing services or goods, to the other.
• Acceptance: Both parties must agree to and accept the contract’s terms. If either party refuses acceptance, the other party can’t execute the document.
• Consideration: The parties must exchange something of value for the contract to be valid.

Both parties must also clearly understand the agreement they sign, be of legal age, and have the legal capacity to enter an agreement. The agreement must also contain legal actions. For example, the contract can’t facilitate the sale of illegal substances.

Step 4 – Name the Appropriate Governing Law and Jurisdiction

Federal regulations will govern your contract, but you’ll also be subject to state-specific provisions.

Please note that your state or jurisdiction may use different guidelines to interpret certain sections of your agreement. Specify which state’s laws will apply to your agreement so that all parties are on the same page.

Step 5 – Explain All Details in Plain Language

Avoid using overly complex language in your contract agreement. Incorporating simple, plain language can increase comprehension for both parties, ensuring everyone knows what the agreement entails.

Using long blocks of text can make the text difficult for readers to scan. Instead, incorporate visual elements and other tools to increase readability and comprehension. For example, you can add proposals, sales quotes, expense forms, invoices , and bills of materials.

Step 6 – Use Repeatable Language

When you write a business contract, you don’t have to start from scratch every time. Use one of our free contract templates as a starting point. This way, you can include standardized terms and agreed-upon legal language.

Include party-specific information to tailor your contract as necessary. When you use a business contract template, you can save time while ensuring that you are thorough and incorporate legal requirements.

Step 7 – Describe Methods for Renewal, Termination, and Dispute Resolution

Explain the procedures for termination. For example, you may want to terminate the contract if it fulfills its purpose and you no longer need it. You may also want to terminate it if one party doesn’t fulfill their end of the agreement.

On the other hand, everything with the arrangement might be going well. If so, you may wish to renew the agreement. Describe how to renew the contract if both parties desire to do so.

Still, you can outline dispute resolution methods if a disagreement arises. This way, you’ll have a solid remediation plan, letting you resume the relationship efficiently.

Step 8 – Be Specific About Requirements, Deadlines, and Payment Plans

Outline the requirements of the arrangement. Explain what each party has to provide, including deadlines and the scope of work.

For example, suppose you have service agreements with customers for a cleaning company. You should emphasize what services you’ll provide and how frequently. The agreement should also state the customer’s responsibilities, like providing you with efficient access to their property.

A business contract should also state the payment terms. Depending on the agreement both parties reach, the payment details may differ. For example, if you enter a rental agreement, you may agree to make monthly rental payments. However, if you enter into a sales agreement to purchase equipment, you may make one lump payment at the time of the exchange.

Step 9 – Include NDAs or Non-Compete Agreements If Necessary

Business agreements may benefit from the inclusion of NDAs or non-compete agreements. This way, the other party won’t start a competing business, work for a competitor, or share confidential information. Tailor the NDA or non-compete agreement to your specific goals, ensuring the other party understands their limitations once they sign it.

Step 10 – Obtain Both Parties’ Signatures

Once both parties involved agree to the proposed terms and work through any remaining provisions, you can sign the document and obtain their signature.

Can I Force Someone to Sign a Business Contract?

You cannot force someone to sign a contract. However, you can refuse to do business with someone who won’t sign a contract. Losing your business might be the “nudge” another party needs to reconsider their position.

Do I Need a New Contract If I Want to Change the Agreement’s Terms?

Yes. Any time the terms of the agreement change, you should document the changes in a new contract. The new contract should also clarify if it replaces the old one entirely.

What Is a Conditional Business Contract?

A conditional business contract is one in which certain conditions must be true before the contract goes into effect.

For example, suppose you have a snow removal business. In that case, your service agreement may read, “Ace Snow Removal will remove snow from parking lots, walkways, and business entrances after snowfalls of two inches or more.”

This contract is conditional because the company will only provide its snow removal services if it snows at least two inches.

How Do I Cancel a Business Contract?

Cancel a business contract by learning if it has cancellation provisions depending on specific reasons or causes. For example, you may follow specific steps if you cancel it because an illegal action or misrepresentation occurs.

If you cancel a contract, you may request to cancel in writing, preferably using a notice of contract termination .

Do Business Contracts Require Signatures?

Yes. To be legally enforceable, both parties should sign the business contract.

Related Documents

• Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) : Outline an agreement between two or more parties in a formal document, communicating mutually accepted terms.
• Business Proposal : Use this document to form new relationships with other businesses and organizations.
• Business Purchase Agreement : A legally enforceable contract that documents the sale of a business.
• One-Page Business Plan : A simplified version of a traditional business plan that outlines the basics of your business.
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10 Free Business Contract Templates & Agreements

Praburam Srinivasan

Growth Marketing Manager

February 15, 2024

Making pinky promises or giving someone your word won’t cut it in the business world— every agreement has to be backed by a contract . 📜

A legally binding contract outlines any official commitment enforceable by law, defining expectations from all involved parties to avoid miscommunication .

When drafted precisely, it prevents conflicts and mitigates the risk of compliance issues for all parties involved. On the other hand, a weak contract or service agreement can cost you big time—we’re talking exhausting court proceedings, legal fees, breach penalties, and loss of reputation. 

With such high stakes—especially for an expensive business agreement, drafting contracts can be nerve-racking. If you’re looking for a stress-free way to create watertight legal business agreements, you need proper contract templates .

Let’s discover what they should look like and explore 10 of the best options available on the market!

What Is a Business Contract Template?

What makes a good contract template, 1. clickup business contract sample template, 2. clickup bid contract template, 3. clickup addendum to a contract template, 4. clickup catering contract template, 5. clickup cleaning contract template, 6. clickup project management services contract template, 7. clickup employment agreement template, 8. clickup commercial lease agreement template, 9. word independent contract template by template.net, 10. google docs vendor contract template by signaturely.

As a legally binding agreement, a contract has to be drafted in a specific manner to be valid. You must use formulaic legal phrases and jargon that aligns with the transaction, payment terms, contract agreement, and overall legal agreement for all parties involved—which is tricky for a layman.

That’s where business contract templates come in—these tools help you write comprehensive contracts without legal expertise . 🧑‍⚖️

The template simplifies drafting by giving you a standardized framework to work with. It contains industry-approved stock language—also called boilerplate clauses —contextual to the subject matter of the contract or partnership agreements

Keep in mind that business contract templates are not universal in nature and depend on the specific country or industry. Some fit any business transaction involving a vendor-customer relationship . Others like an independent contractor or rental agreement, however, outline the terms and conditions for a particular situation—like a real estate purchase or employee job description.

According to a benchmark study by World Commerce & Contracting (formerly IACCM), more than half the contracts made are based on the wrong template, which can lead to compliance issues. That’s why using the right one is crucial!

Whether you need a go-to contract structure for recurring deals and transactions or something situation-specific, there are certain features a quality partnership agreement template should have.

In general, look for contract templates with : 

• Suitable boilerplate clauses
• Blocks for core areas like signatures and seals
• Defined indemnification sections to offer protection against potential conflicts
• Customizability : You should be able to tailor the predefined clauses to the transaction or service in question effortlessly. The template must be reusable and scalable
• Collaborative tools : The template should allow real-time editing with partners, employees, and vendors to address all stakeholder needs
• Trackability : It should let you monitor contract changes. For frequently updated deals, the template should expedite the revision and approval process
• High usability : A person without a legal background should be able to use the document from the get-go. High-end contract templates have built-in guides to assist the user 

10 Free Contract Templates to Use in 2024

We’ve compiled a list of 10 contract templates for different use cases , including general business agreements , lease rentals, and employment contracts. Our selection criteria covered factors like overall functionality, language consistency, and ease of use.

Looking for an all-purpose, simple contract or service provider template to facilitate purchaser-vendor agreements? The ClickUp Business Contract Sample Template is your go-to launchpad!

This beginner-friendly template is 100% scalable , so businesses small and big can use it to prepare concrete, well-rounded agreements. It lets you draft commercial contracts in the capacity of a seller or a buyer with its nine standard sections :

• Services Offered
• Consideration and Fees
• Cancellation
• Governing Law and Legal Fees
• Warranties Offered
• Severability
• Waiver and Amendments
• Complete Agreement

The boilerplate clauses here are done to perfection—you only have to provide the specifics, like the details of Party A and Party B , services and warranties offered, mutual duties, and estimated completion dates. To avoid confusion, the parts you must fill out are highlighted in brackets .

Once you complete the sections, move to the Acknowledgment page—this is where the involved parties put their signatures to accept the contract’s terms and conditions. 🖊️

If you also need a starting place for what your invoice should look like, check out our invoice template for business services .

Like all ClickUp templates, this one enables team collaboration —you can create and manage tasks , draft contracts in real-time with your coworkers, and monitor the changes made.

When pursuing a new client in a competitive environment, you want to cover all the bases and show that your company is the right fit. Trust the ClickUp Bid Contract Template to help you make winning proposals ! ✌️

With this template, you get full support for writing engaging proposals . Start by adding the party info to the document. Then outline various project deets such as labor costs, payment details, materials, or rental agreements for equipment to present your strengths objectively.

The default framework ensures the reader can skim the critical elements of the bid —here’s what the structure looks like:

• Services to be Rendered
• Project Plan and Payment Scheme
• Work Breakdown Structure
• Terms and Conditions

These carefully designed sections facilitate easy comparison between competing bids. You can add subsections to further define the proposal.

Edit the template’s sample text to fit your bid. Add graphs, images, tables, and charts to clarify the work plan. 

For long-term projects, we recommend sharing the template with your teammates during pre- and post-bid meetings to double-check the profitability of the proposed services.

Contracts may be signed and sealed, but are they set in stone? Not quite if they have addendums. 🖇️

An addendum is a legal document added to an existing contract to modify some sections or insert new ones. Preparing the legally-binding document can be a nightmare because there’s a real risk of creating unintended inconsistencies or loopholes.

Enter the ClickUp Addendum to a Contract Template —designed to help you amend an existing agreement without spoiling it!

Use the template to make changes in line with the original contract. The document will guide you to complete relevant sections, such as the contract name and date, modifications or additions, and date of effect. 

You will be able to mirror the original contract in terms of:

• Theme and font style

If you’re finalizing the modifications electronically, upload a photo of your digital signature, and you’re good to go. 

To ensure all information is centralized and your record-keeping is spotless, link the final agreement to ClickUp Docs or add it to your CRM workflows . 

Running a catering business is stressful enough, but drafting those super-detailed client contracts can be extra frustrating. 

Luckily, it doesn’t have to be, thanks to the ClickUp Catering Contract Template !

This free contract template lets you outline your catering services in detail , establishing accountability in areas like cost and incentives, supplies, and staffing limits. It defines parameters for clients’ expectations, so there’s no room for misunderstandings in a legally binding document.

The template includes premade sections that work for both in-house and outdoor catering agreements. Customize options like Venue Coordination , Menu , and Event Specifications to explain how your team will provide the service. You have the option to attach a detailed menu (any file format) in Exhibit A: Catering Menu . 🍜

Catering contracts can often attract unforeseen circumstances that lead to disputes. With that in mind, you can add standardized clauses for Health Compliance , Legal Jurisdiction , Limitations and Remedies , Cancellation , and Insurance .

If you’re managing multiple clients and have a lot on your plate (pun intended) , share the template with your staff to delegate drafting or service management duties.

Seek legal advice for specific laws and restrictions, but you can use free contract templates like this to get a head start!

Check out these affinity diagram templates !

Just because you’re running a cleaning business doesn’t mean you’d want to clean up the mess arising from poorly written contracts. 🧽

The ClickUp Cleaning Contract Template is just what you need to minimize the risk of misunderstandings between you and your clients and keep your image squeaky clean! 

The template is divided into clear-cut sections to address every aspect of your service—including what you’ll do, when, where, and how often. You can also add details about premise authorization and confidentiality if your duties expand to areas with entry restrictions.

While cleaning is a demanding job, using the template is a relatively smooth ride—all you do is fill out the marked areas, and you have a professional-looking agreement ready for signing in no time!

Since cleaning businesses typically deal with multiple client categories and requirements, you can duplicate the template to create readymade frameworks for different service types. This can save you drafting time, improve internal processes , and help you retain customers over time .

Project management (PM) contracts are different from your usual service agreements. They define the relationship between a client and a project manager, and considering the loose scope of the service, even tiny oversights can lead to costly legal disputes.

That’s why you need the ClickUp Project Management Services Contract Template to help cover general PM agreement principles—like representation and mutual understanding—to protect your interests.

Whether you’re providing or outsourcing PM services —like an independent contractor—the template can play for both teams. It’s particularly useful for startups that cannot afford full-time legal counsel to oversee project management activities.

Sure, this template has the desired legal phrasing for the contract, but the language is easy to follow. You also get a built-in guide to assist you with the drafting process.

For example, if you’re unsure what to add to the Issuance of Invoices section, the template will showcase what invoicing and late fee elements to specify as well as specific payment details in the business agreement.

Customize the template with other payment specifics, such as:

• Estimated project budget  
• Hourly, weekly, or monthly rates
• Trial period reimbursements

An employment agreement works like an encyclopedia of info on a job position , making it the source of truth in potential labor law disputes. It’s a complex document, though, and drafting it is no walk in the park.

Trust the ClickUp Employment Agreement Template to help you work on a legally sound work contract and business agreement. ✅

The template covers all essential components, from the salary scheme and overtime policy to expected office behavior , to fit different roles. The terms and conditions are divided into three main sections:

• General Employment Policy: Defining the hiring and termination rules
• General Workplace Policy: Covering areas like punctuality and remuneration
• Internal Policies: Clarifying company-specific stand on office behavior, privacy, and substance use

These sections can have as many subsections as you want to account for particular rights and duties of an employee. Deleting an unnecessary clause won’t impact the template structure.

Need help figuring out the intricacies of a commercial lease agreement? Use the ClickUp Commercial Lease Agreement Template to protect the interests of everyone involved.

This template helps etch out the governing clauses between the tenant/lessee and the landlord/lessor for various commercial leasing scenarios, such as:

• Renting a retail, office, or parking space
• Getting new equipment
• Entering into a lease-to-buy agreement for real estate or industrial land payment details

The template covers everything from the purpose of leasing the premises to tenant obligations. Edit the highlighted parts to define areas like security deposits, payment terms, subletting rules, renewal provisions, and insurance obligations.

You can link the template to internal documentation to keep the lease data centralized and trackable for everyone.

If you’re managing a large lease portfolio, use the template to share your workload.

Let’s say you want to rent a warehouse and delegate its management to a subordinate. In this case, you can go to the template and add administrative tasks, like paying property taxes or preparing renewal paperwork, for your store manager.

If you’re looking for a basic business contract template for Microsoft Word, consider the Word Independent Contract Template by Template.net.

What you’ll love about this simple partnership agreement is its user-friendliness. It comes with a front page where you can insert your company logo and add involved parties, dates, and other introductory components.

The meat of the template contains six primary sections:

• The Parties
• Consideration & Payment Terms
• Covenants, Representations & Warranties
• General Provisions
• Applicable Law

Add or remove text and edit fonts to create a contract that aligns with your brand preferences. This template is also available in Google Docs format, which makes it collaboration-friendly to an extent.

Some users may find the template’s all-purpose structure dull, but that’s part of its charm. It allows you to shape it into whatever contract you need at a given moment, although you may have to add customized boilerplate clauses on your own. 🔝

Ran out of office supplies? Or is the WiFi out of service? Time to reach out to a vendor. ☎️

In its lifetime, an average company maintains hundreds of vendor lists to keep a steady supply of items and services critical to operations. Instead of wasting resources on drafting each document, turn to the Google Docs Vendor Contract Template by Signaturely.

The template defines the specifics of the exchange, outlining expectations in payment terms, deadlines, and deliverables of the service contract. Necessary sections are prefilled —you need to review them and add relevant info to empty spaces.

Like any standard template, you get indemnification sections for what-if scenarios like last-minute cancellations and severe weather conditions. 🌧

Thanks to the template’s universal structure , you can use it for various services, from hiring event planners to landscaping companies.

The template also works for personal scenarios. For example, if you’re planning a wedding, you can use it to draft individual contracts for your florist or baker. 

Become a Pro at Drafting Contracts with Free Contract Templates!

Let’s face it—drafting contracts isn’t the most exciting job out there. It’s tedious and repetitive but still a non-negotiable part of the business . 🙅

Save yourself the pain of drafting from scratch with the savvy contract templates on our list. They’re all customizable and when used well, can cut down the risk of manual errors monumentally!

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Business Plan

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Business plans are the blueprints that companies create to roadmap their way to success. These documents are also vital for raising capital, attracting investors, and monitoring overall progress. They are also important for internal planning and decision-making within a company. Ensure that your organization puts its best face forward by having a solid business plan in place.

This article covers what every owner should know about writing a business plan:

What is a Business Plan?

A business plan is a document that entrepreneurs create to outline their company’s funding and operational strategy. Business planning is essential for any company that wants to attract and retain investors. You write a business plan for angel investors, banks, and venture capitalists so that they can make sound investment decisions.

This article also defines what a business plan is.

How to Write a Business Plan – Step-by-Step

Writing a business plan can seem daunting without a step-by-step approach. The scope of the plan can snowball and leave founders tabling their efforts altogether. Avoid falling into this trap.

We handled the heavy-lifting for you and outlined a five-step process below:

Step 1. Start Small

Business plans should be concise. An overly long business plan is a pain to revise and read. It’s a document that you’ll keep using and refining over time, which means you should make it as concise as possible but provide enough detail and information to effectively communicate the company’s strategy and goals.

Step 2. Know Your Audience

Use communications and language that your target audience will understand when writing your plan. If your company is developing a complex technical process and investors aren’t tech-savvy, avoid using jargon or acronyms they won’t recognize, for example. Accommodate your investors by keeping your communications straightforward while using terms that everyone can understand.

Step 3. Test Your Idea

Start by writing a single-page pitch. This exercise will allow you to test the viability of your business concept long before launch. It is an exercise that can be as simple as a peer review or as complex as a feasibility study.

Step 4. Set Objectives

Have a strong concept of where you want your company to go from the start. Before you begin, you may not have every milestone or even specific steps in mind to achieve your objectives. However, the main elements of a business plan will help you address them methodically.

Step 5. Ask for Help at the Right Time

Small business law can apply to your business plan and affect your investing objectives. Know when to ask for help rather than leave your company exposed to liability. Business lawyers can help you address these issues and review your final document.

Here is another article that discusses how to write a business plan.

Jeremiah C.

Main Elements of a Business Plan

Developing a solid business plan is necessary for various reasons. However, even more, critical is the process of ensuring that it is updated to reflect the small and large changes that your business will experience as it grows and evolves. A well-structured agreement will help you handle this challenge over time.

Here are five main elements of a business plan to include in your document:

Element 1. Executive Summary

The Executive Summary is the opener of your business plan and should be written first. This section is the most read and creates a critical first impression. It serves as an introduction to potential investors and stakeholders while providing a summary of your entire business plan. Based on your executive summary, your target audience may continue to read through it.

Element 2. Company Description

Following the Executive Summary, a business plan should begin with a detailed company description and its relationship to the market in which your company operates.

This section of the business plan should include the following details:

• what your business does
• what products or services does it offer
• which market segment it serves
• who are its clients

When describing your business, you should ensure that the reader understands the market environment in which it operates and how it can thrive competitively in that environment.

Element 3. Marketing Plan

This business plan section requires an in-depth knowledge of your market as well as how your business positions itself and competes with established players.

You should include the following in your marketing plan:

• Competitors
• Market analysis
• Marketing budget
• Positioning
• Product or service features
• Strengths & weaknesses
• Target audience
• Threats & opportunities

Element 4. Management & Operations

The people and processes that enable your business to function daily are critical to maintaining a competitive edge. They assist you in developing a superior product while delivering it more efficiently and at a lower cost.

Your management and operations team must be capable of delivering on the promises made in the preceding sections. Additionally, investors and banks will review this section to understand salary costs since these are frequently significant expenses.

Element 5. Financial Plan

Your financial plan is, without a doubt, the most critical component of your business plan. Emphasize assumption explanations that underpin your forecasts than directly on the estimates themselves.

Every sound financial plan will include the following:

• Breakeven analyses
• Capital requirements
• Cash flow statement and forecasts
• Profit & loss projections
• Pro forma financial statement

The financial plan is generally the most lengthy and detailed part of the business plan. Most business plan writers include the details in a section following the appendices. Include complex spreadsheets and calculations to prepare the financial statements in this section for a more thorough approach.

Image via Pexels by Startup Stock Photos

Purpose of a Business Plan

A business plan’s purpose is to analyze a business opportunity for a new or existing business. The document should consider several areas, including human resources, external forces, marketing, finance, technology, and business law. Your business plan can also operate as a formal and polished introduction to your organization if investors want to learn more about your operations.

Types of Business Plans

Business plans are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Several types allow you to customize your efforts to your growth stage and investor target. Business plans may include a marketing plan, sales plan, or operational plan, depending on the needs and goals of the company.

Below, we have described the five other types of business plans your company can use:

Type 1. Startup Business Plan

A startup plan is a business plan that a new business presents to prospective investors to secure startup funding. Startup plans serve as a starting point for companies that you can adjust as the business grows.

Type 2. Strategic Business Plan

A strategic business plan outlines the tactic that a business will employ to accomplish its overall objectives. Typically, strategic plans are used internally as a foundational plan for an entire organization.

Type 3. Feasibility Business Plan

A feasibility business plan will help you introduce a new product or service within a given geographic region. Typically, it focuses exclusively on how well a product will sell or whether the proposed market exists for targeted returns.

Type 4. Operational strategy

An operations plan, also known as an annual plan, is a component of strategic planning that focuses on day-to-day operational activities. It details management’s, departments’, and employees’ responsibilities and how they contribute to its overall success.

Type 5. Business Expansion Plan

You can use a business expansion plan when growing your company in size or area. The development requires additional resources such as financial investment, materials for new products, and an increased workforce. Companies can develop expansions plans for external or internal reasons.

Get Help with Business Planning

It’s not always easy to get a jump start on your business planning efforts. Get help with this strategy by speak with a business lawyer. They can offer guidance and legal advice while helping you avoid costly errors.

Meet some of our Business Plan Lawyers

15 years for legal experience; expertise in contracts, healthcare, ERISA, physicians, financial services, commercial contracts, employment agreements, etc. I am adept at all contracts and can provide you with efficient and quality services. I have worked at a law firm, financial services company, consulting ,and non-profit.

Nicholas M.

Nicholas Matlach is a cybersecurity expert (CISSP) and an attorney who is dedicated to helping small businesses succeed. He is a client-focused professional who has a deep understanding of the challenges that small businesses face in the digital age. He also provides legal counsel to small businesses on a variety of issues, including formation, intellectual property, contracts, and employment law.

Advised startups and established corporations on a wide range of commercial and corporate matters, including VC funding, technology law, and M&A. Commercial and Corporate Matters • Advised companies on commercial and corporate matters and drafted corporate documents and commercial agreements—including but not limited to —Convertible Note, SAFE, Promissory Note, Terms and Conditions, SaaS Agreement, Employment Agreement, Contractor Agreement, Joint Venture Agreement, Stock Purchase Agreement, Asset Purchase Agreement, Shareholders Agreement, Partnership Agreement, Franchise Agreement, License Agreement, and Financing Agreement. • Drafted and revised internal regulations of joint venture companies (board of directors, employment, office organization, discretional duty, internal control, accounting, fund management, etc.) • Advised JVs on corporate structuring and other legal matters • Advised startups on VC funding Employment Matters • Drafted a wide range of employment agreements, including dental associate agreements, physician employment agreements, startup employment agreements, and executive employment agreements. • Advised clients on complex employment law matters and drafted employment agreements, dispute settlement agreements, and severance agreements. General Counsel • As outside general counsel, I advised startups on ICOs, securities law, business licenses, regulatory compliance, and other commercial and corporate matters. • Drafted or analyzed coin or token sale agreements for global ICOs. • Assisted clients with corporate formations, including filing incorporation documents and foreign corporation registrations, drafting operating and partnership agreements, and creating articles of incorporation and bylaws. Dispute Resolution • Conducted legal research, and document review, and drafted pleadings, motions, and other trial documents. • Advised the client on strategic approaches to discovery proceedings and settlement negotiation. • Advised clients on employment dispute settlements.

Have a passion for real estate law.

Versatile, analytical, detail-oriented California barred corporate attorney with a comprehensive real estate, transactional and finance background as in-house counsel to large real estate developers, asset and property management companies, Fortune 500 quick service retailers/restaurant franchisors and international energy franchisors (retail and gasoline/mini market). Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, work ethic and integrity. Enthusiastic and quick mastery of new responsibilities, technologies and business strategies.

I have been in corporate practice for over 14 years dealing primarily with complex engineering, construction, and project management contracts as well employment contracts.

Attorney licensed in New York and New Jersey with over 15 years of experience in Real Estate, Property Law and Collection/Debt Defense Law.

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Would like to start a sport leeauge.

There is. No such leauge like i want to start.

T. Phillip B.

I'm not sure how to respond since there isn't much of a question. But best of luck in creating a successful sports league.

Connecticut

Can you help me set up a car dealership?

I live in CT but want to open a dealership there. How cheap can I open one?

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BUSINESS STRATEGIES

How to create a contractor business plan

• Jeremy Greenbaum
• Oct 30, 2023
• 12 min read

When launching a contracting business, it's essential to craft a detailed and precise business blueprint tailored to your industry. A contractor business plan is a meticulously crafted document that delineates your company's objectives, tactics and financial forecasts within the contracting sector. This blueprint serves as your guiding compass when starting a business , charting the course to success and offering solutions to potential hurdles. It spells out the specific strategies needed to efficiently operate a contracting enterprise.

Keep reading for tips on how to get started with your own business plan when starting a contractor business .

Looking to open up the doors to your business online by making a website ? Try Wix’s website builder today.

Creating a business plan for your contractor business is vital in order to establish a clear direction and ensure the success of your venture. Here are the six primary sections of a business plan to get you started:

Executive summary

Company and domain names, market analysis and research, operations plan, marketing and advertising plan, financial plan, 01. executive summary.

The executive summary is a concise overview of your entire contractor business plan. It should provide a snapshot of your business's mission, goals, products or services, target market, competitive advantage, financial projections and funding requirements. A clear executive summary succinctly communicates your business's essence and potential, serving as a compelling introduction to captivate the reader's interest.

Example of an executive summary: "GreenBuild Contractors is a dynamic and innovative construction company specializing in sustainable residential and commercial projects. With a commitment to quality craftsmanship and environmental stewardship, we aim to revolutionize the construction industry. Our team of experienced professionals combines expertise in green building practices with a passion for creating spaces that resonate with both clients and the environment. By leveraging our unique expertise, GreenBuild Contractors is poised to tap into the growing demand for eco-friendly construction solutions. We are seeking funding to scale our operations, enhance market presence and position ourselves as a leader in sustainable construction."

02. Company and domain names

Choosing the right business name is pivotal for building brand awareness and trust in your contractor business. It should resonate with your services, reflect professionalism and be memorable. To find inspiration, consider using business name generators that offer creative suggestions tailored to your industry.

Be inspired:

Contractor business name ideas

Painting business name ideas

Plumbing business name ideas

Selecting a domain name is equally crucial in today's digital age. It should be aligned with your company name, easy to remember and relevant to your services. Before finalizing your choice, ensure the domain name is also available and not already in use.

Once you’ve decided on your company name and legal structure, make sure to register your business with your state.

03. Market analysis and research

Incorporating a market analysis and research section in your contractor business plan helps you understand the competitive landscape and devise an effective business strategy. Conduct market research to identify your target audience's needs, preferences and pain points. Analyze your competitors' strengths and weaknesses to uncover opportunities for differentiation. This insight will guide your marketing efforts and positioning strategy.

Find your niche:

Handyman business plan

Painting business plan

04. Operations plan

An operations plan within your contractor business plan outlines the practical aspects of your business, including its location, premises, equipment and staffing needs. Describe your business's physical setup, such as office or construction site locations. Detail the types of equipment required for your services and address staffing requirements, roles and responsibilities. A comprehensive operations plan ensures a smooth workflow and efficient resource allocation.

05. Marketing and advertising plan

Your business plan should lay out a detailed marketing and advertising strategy to promote your contractor business. Identify the most relevant marketing channels for your industry, such as a business website , social media, local advertising and trade shows. Highlight specific campaigns—such as showcasing completed projects, offering promotions or educational content about construction trends.

Don’t forget to think about your branding. No matter where you choose to promote your business, you’ll want to make sure that your branding is consistent. Start by using a logo maker to brainstorm construction logo ideas . Shape your visual identity around it, plus articulate your brand’s values, mission and vision (among other essential aspects).

06. Financial plan

The financial plan is a cornerstone of your contractor business plan, detailing how your business will be funded initially and outlining a timeline for achieving profitability. It includes projected revenue, expenses and cash flow statements. Specify the initial investment required for equipment, staffing and other startup costs. Outline your funding sources and clearly define your business's financial trajectory, demonstrating its sustainability and growth potential. Lay out how you plan to make money as a contractor.

Contractor business plan example: UrbanRenovate Builders

Below is a business plan example of a hypothetical contractor business, UrbanRenovate Builders. Feel free to use this as a guide for when you’re creating your own contractor business plan.

UrbanRenovate Builders is a forward-thinking contractor business poised to redefine urban spaces through innovative renovation solutions. With a focus on delivering exceptional craftsmanship and modern design, we aim to become a trusted partner for clients seeking transformative renovation projects. Our team of skilled professionals combines expertise in architectural design, construction and project management to create living spaces that reflect our clients' unique lifestyles. By leveraging our expertise and commitment to quality, UrbanRenovate Builders aims to establish a prominent presence in the competitive renovation market.

Company name : UrbanRenovate Builders

Domain name : www.urbanrenovatebuilders.com

The name "UrbanRenovate Builders" captures our emphasis on urban revitalization and renovation expertise. The corresponding domain name aligns with our brand identity and offers easy access to our online presence, enabling potential clients to learn about our services and portfolio.

Market analysis : UrbanRenovate Builders operates in the bustling urban renovation sector, targeting homeowners and commercial property owners seeking modernization and transformation. Our research indicates a growing demand for sustainable and aesthetically appealing renovation solutions, reflecting a shift towards environmentally-conscious living.

Competitive landscape : We have identified key competitors offering similar renovation services, emphasizing the importance of differentiation through innovation, superior customer service and sustainability.

Location : UrbanRenovate Builders will be headquartered in a central urban location, facilitating easy access to our target market.

Premises : Our office space will accommodate project management, design consultations and administrative tasks.

Equipment : We will invest in state-of-the-art construction and design tools to ensure precise execution of projects.

Staffing : Our team will consist of experienced architects, designers, project managers and skilled construction professionals.

Marketing channels : Our marketing strategy involves a mix of digital platforms (website, social media), local advertising (flyers, community events) and participation in home renovation expos.

Campaigns : We will launch a "Before & After" campaign showcasing successful transformations. We’ll additionally launch a "Sustainability Spotlight" campaign highlighting eco-friendly practices, and "Client Stories" sharing positive experiences.

Startup costs : Initial investment of $150,000 will cover equipment, office setup, marketing efforts and staff salaries.

Funding : Funding will come from personal savings ($50,000) and a bank loan ($100,000).

Financial projections (first year) : revenue: $300,000, expenses: $220,000, profit: $80,000

Financial projections (second year) : revenue: $500,000, expenses: $350,000, profit: $150,000

Profitability timeline : UrbanRenovate Builders aims to achieve profitability within the first year of operation, supported by strategic marketing efforts and excellent project execution.

Benefits of creating a contractor business plan

No matter what type of business you’re starting, a business plan offers several key advantages that can significantly contribute to your company’s success.

Funding : A well-written business plan can be instrumental in attracting investors and raising money for your business . Investors want to see a clear roadmap that outlines your business's potential for growth and profitability. A robust plan demonstrates your commitment, knowledge of the industry and strategies to mitigate risks, making it more likely for investors to feel confident in providing financial support.

Resources : A detailed business plan helps you understand the precise resources, supplies and staff required to launch your contractor business. By conducting a thorough analysis of the equipment, tools, materials and personnel needed, the plan ensures that all essential aspects are considered and allocated appropriately. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of resource shortages or mismanagement, allowing for a smoother business launch.

Operational efficiency : A business plan provides a structured outline of your business's operations. It outlines the step-by-step processes involved in executing projects, managing tasks and meeting client expectations. This clarity improves operational efficiency, reduces confusion among staff and enhances overall project management. Additionally, having a well-defined plan in place helps business owners respond effectively to unexpected challenges, ensuring that projects stay on track.

Risk mitigation : Starting a contractor business involves inherent risks, from market fluctuations to unforeseen project delays. A business plan allows you to identify potential risks and develop corresponding mitigation strategies. By addressing challenges proactively, the business is better equipped to navigate uncertainties and disruptions, maintaining its resilience and reputation.

Competitive edge : A well-researched business plan includes a thorough analysis of the market landscape and competitors. This insight will enable you to identify gaps in the market, recognize emerging trends and position your contractor business strategically to stand out. By tailoring your services to meet specific client needs, your business can gain a competitive edge and establish a unique value proposition.

Financial projections : A crucial aspect of any business plan is its financial projections and growth strategy. By outlining revenue forecasts, expense estimates and profit margins, the plan provides a clear picture of the contractor business's financial health. You can set realistic financial goals and create actionable plans to achieve them, guiding your growth trajectory in a sustainable manner.

How profitable can a contractor business be?

Contractor businesses can be very profitable. According to a report by IBISWorld, the average profit margin for contractor businesses is 10%. This means that for every $100 in revenue, contractor businesses generate $10 in profit.

Of course, not all contractor businesses are equally profitable. Some contractors are able to charge higher fees and generate more profit than others. However, even contractors with a lower profit margin can still be successful if they have a steady stream of clients.

Here are some factors that can contribute to the profitability of a contractor business:

Specialization: Contractors who specialize in a particular area of construction or remodeling can charge higher fees and attract more clients.

Experience: Contractors with more experience tend to be more efficient and can complete projects more quickly. This can lead to higher profits.

Reputation: Contractors with a good reputation are more likely to attract repeat clients and referrals. This can lead to increased business and profits.

Marketing: Contractors who effectively market their business are more likely to generate leads and close more deals. This can lead to increased revenue and profits.

If you are considering starting a contractor business, it's important to do your research and develop a plan to make your business as profitable as possible.

Here are some additional tips for increasing the profitability of your contractor business:

Invest in quality tools and equipment. This will help you complete projects more efficiently and reduce costs.

Track your expenses carefully. This will help you identify areas where you can cut costs and improve your profitability.

Negotiate favorable terms with your suppliers. This can save you money on materials and other costs.

Outsource non-essential tasks. This can free up your time so that you can focus on the most important aspects of your business.

Invest in training and development for your team. This will help your team to be more productive and efficient.

By following these tips, you can increase the profitability of your contractor business and build a successful enterprise.

How to market your contractor business

There are a number of ways to market your contractor business. Here are a few tips:

Create a strong online presence. This includes having a professional website and being active on social media. Your website should be well-designed and easy to navigate, and it should include information about your services, experience and contact information. Your social media pages should be updated regularly with interesting content and photos of your work.

Use local search engine optimization (SEO). This means optimizing your website and online content so that it ranks higher in search engine results pages (SERPs) for relevant keywords. When people search for contractors in your area, you want your website to be one of the first results they see.

Run paid advertising campaigns. You can run paid ads on search engines and social media platforms to reach a wider audience. When creating your ads, be sure to target your ideal customers and use relevant keywords.

Network with other businesses in your area. Attend industry events and join trade associations. This is a great way to meet potential clients and partners.

Offer discounts and promotions. This is a great way to attract new customers and encourage repeat business. You can offer discounts for first-time customers, bulk orders or referrals.

Get involved in your community. Sponsor local events or donate to charities. This is a great way to build relationships and generate goodwill.

Focus on your unique selling points. What makes your business different from other contractors in your area? Highlight your unique selling points in your marketing materials and online content.

Use high-quality photos and videos. Show potential customers the quality of your work by using high-quality photos and videos in your marketing materials.

Make it easy for customers to contact you. Include your contact information prominently on your website and social media pages. Make sure to respond to inquiries promptly and professionally.

Provide excellent customer service. This is essential for building a successful contractor business. Make sure to communicate regularly with your customers, keep them updated on the progress of their project and resolve any issues promptly.

Strategies to launch your contractor business plan

Here are some strategies to launch your contractor business plan:

Define your target market and services. Who are your ideal customers? What services will you offer? What are your unique selling points? Once you have a clear understanding of your target market and services, you can develop a business plan that is tailored to their needs.

Create a strong brand identity. Your brand is what will set you apart from other contractors in your area. Develop a logo, tagline and website that are professional and reflect your business values.

Market your business effectively. There are many different ways to market your contracting business. You can use online and offline marketing channels, such as search engine optimization (SEO), social media and networking events.

Get licensed and insured. In most states, contractors are required to be licensed and insured. This shows potential customers that you are a legitimate business and that you are qualified to perform the services you offer.

Build a team of reliable subcontractors. If you're unable to perform all of the services yourself, you will need to build a team of reliable subcontractors. Make sure to check their references and licenses before hiring them.

Provide excellent customer service. Customer service is key to success in the contracting business. Make sure to communicate regularly with your customers, keep them updated on the progress of their project and resolve any issues promptly.

Here are some additional tips for launching your contractor business:

Start small and scale up as you grow. Don't try to take on too much work at once. Start with small projects and gradually build up your business as you gain experience and a good reputation.

Offer competitive pricing. When setting your prices, be sure to research what other contractors in your area are charging. You want to offer competitive pricing without sacrificing quality.

Get involved in your community. Sponsor local events, donate to charities and get to know other businesses in your area. This will help you to build relationships and generate leads.

Network with other contractors. Join a trade association or attend networking events for contractors. This is a great way to learn from other professionals, get referrals and find new opportunities.

Launching a contractor business can be challenging, but it's also very rewarding. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of success.

Contractor business plan FAQ

How do you build a successful contracting business.

To build a successful contracting business, you need to focus on the following:

Provide excellent customer service. This means communicating regularly with your clients, keeping them updated on the progress of their project and resolving any issues promptly.

Deliver high-quality work. This is essential for building a good reputation and attracting repeat clients.

Be reliable and trustworthy. Show up on time and complete your projects on schedule.

Be professional and courteous. Dress appropriately and treat your clients with respect.

Market your business effectively. Let potential clients know about your services and how you can help them.

What type of construction is most profitable?

Can a contractor be a millionaire, want to create another type of business plan.

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550+ Business Plan Examples to Launch Your Business

Need help writing your business plan? Explore over 550 industry-specific business plan examples for inspiration.

Find your business plan example

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Finish your plan faster with step-by-step guidance, financial wizards, and a proven format.

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View all sample business plans

Example business plan format

Before you start exploring our library of business plan examples, it's worth taking the time to understand the traditional business plan format . You'll find that the plans in this library and most investor-approved business plans will include the following sections:

Executive summary

The executive summary is an overview of your business and your plans. It comes first in your plan and is ideally only one to two pages. You should also plan to write this section last after you've written your full business plan.

Your executive summary should include a summary of the problem you are solving, a description of your product or service, an overview of your target market, a brief description of your team, a summary of your financials, and your funding requirements (if you are raising money).

Products & services

The products & services chapter of your business plan is where the real meat of your plan lives. It includes information about the problem that you're solving, your solution, and any traction that proves that it truly meets the need you identified.

This is your chance to explain why you're in business and that people care about what you offer. It needs to go beyond a simple product or service description and get to the heart of why your business works and benefits your customers.

Market analysis

Conducting a market analysis ensures that you fully understand the market that you're entering and who you'll be selling to. This section is where you will showcase all of the information about your potential customers. You'll cover your target market as well as information about the growth of your market and your industry. Focus on outlining why the market you're entering is viable and creating a realistic persona for your ideal customer base.

Competition

Part of defining your opportunity is determining what your competitive advantage may be. To do this effectively you need to get to know your competitors just as well as your target customers. Every business will have competition, if you don't then you're either in a very young industry or there's a good reason no one is pursuing this specific venture.

To succeed, you want to be sure you know who your competitors are, how they operate, necessary financial benchmarks, and how you're business will be positioned. Start by identifying who your competitors are or will be during your market research. Then leverage competitive analysis tools like the competitive matrix and positioning map to solidify where your business stands in relation to the competition.

Marketing & sales

The marketing and sales plan section of your business plan details how you plan to reach your target market segments. You'll address how you plan on selling to those target markets, what your pricing plan is, and what types of activities and partnerships you need to make your business a success.

The operations section covers the day-to-day workflows for your business to deliver your product or service. What's included here fully depends on the type of business. Typically you can expect to add details on your business location, sourcing and fulfillment, use of technology, and any partnerships or agreements that are in place.

Milestones & metrics

The milestones section is where you lay out strategic milestones to reach your business goals.

A good milestone clearly lays out the parameters of the task at hand and sets expectations for its execution. You'll want to include a description of the task, a proposed due date, who is responsible, and eventually a budget that's attached. You don't need extensive project planning in this section, just key milestones that you want to hit and when you plan to hit them.

You should also discuss key metrics, which are the numbers you will track to determine your success. Some common data points worth tracking include conversion rates, customer acquisition costs, profit, etc.

Company & team

Use this section to describe your current team and who you need to hire. If you intend to pursue funding, you'll need to highlight the relevant experience of your team members. Basically, this is where you prove that this is the right team to successfully start and grow the business. You will also need to provide a quick overview of your legal structure and history if you're already up and running.

Financial projections

Your financial plan should include a sales and revenue forecast, profit and loss statement, cash flow statement, and a balance sheet. You may not have established financials of any kind at this stage. Not to worry, rather than getting all of the details ironed out, focus on making projections and strategic forecasts for your business. You can always update your financial statements as you begin operations and start bringing in actual accounting data.

Now, if you intend to pitch to investors or submit a loan application, you'll also need a "use of funds" report in this section. This outlines how you intend to leverage any funding for your business and how much you're looking to acquire. Like the rest of your financials, this can always be updated later on.

The appendix isn't a required element of your business plan. However, it is a useful place to add any charts, tables, definitions, legal notes, or other critical information that supports your plan. These are often lengthier or out-of-place information that simply didn't work naturally into the structure of your plan. You'll notice that in these business plan examples, the appendix mainly includes extended financial statements.

Types of business plans explained

While all business plans cover similar categories, the style and function fully depend on how you intend to use your plan. To get the most out of your plan, it's best to find a format that suits your needs. Here are a few common business plan types worth considering.

Traditional business plan

The tried-and-true traditional business plan is a formal document meant to be used for external purposes. Typically this is the type of plan you'll need when applying for funding or pitching to investors. It can also be used when training or hiring employees, working with vendors, or in any other situation where the full details of your business must be understood by another individual.

Business model canvas

The business model canvas is a one-page template designed to demystify the business planning process. It removes the need for a traditional, copy-heavy business plan, in favor of a single-page outline that can help you and outside parties better explore your business idea.

The structure ditches a linear format in favor of a cell-based template. It encourages you to build connections between every element of your business. It's faster to write out and update, and much easier for you, your team, and anyone else to visualize your business operations.

One-page business plan

The true middle ground between the business model canvas and a traditional business plan is the one-page business plan . This format is a simplified version of the traditional plan that focuses on the core aspects of your business.

By starting with a one-page plan , you give yourself a minimal document to build from. You'll typically stick with bullet points and single sentences making it much easier to elaborate or expand sections into a longer-form business plan.

Growth planning

Growth planning is more than a specific type of business plan. It's a methodology. It takes the simplicity and styling of the one-page business plan and turns it into a process for you to continuously plan, forecast, review, and refine based on your performance.

It holds all of the benefits of the single-page plan, including the potential to complete it in as little as 27 minutes . However, it's even easier to convert into a more detailed plan thanks to how heavily it's tied to your financials. The overall goal of growth planning isn't to just produce documents that you use once and shelve. Instead, the growth planning process helps you build a healthier company that thrives in times of growth and remain stable through times of crisis.

It's faster, keeps your plan concise, and ensures that your plan is always up-to-date.

Download a free sample business plan template

Ready to start writing your own plan but aren't sure where to start? Download our free business plan template that's been updated for 2024.

This simple, modern, investor-approved business plan template is designed to make planning easy. It's a proven format that has helped over 1 million businesses write business plans for bank loans, funding pitches, business expansion, and even business sales. It includes additional instructions for how to write each section and is formatted to be SBA-lender approved. All you need to do is fill in the blanks.

How to use an example business plan to help you write your own

How do you know what elements need to be included in your business plan, especially if you've never written one before? Looking at examples can help you visualize what a full, traditional plan looks like, so you know what you're aiming for before you get started. Here's how to get the most out of a sample business plan.

Choose a business plan example from a similar type of company

You don't need to find an example business plan that's an exact fit for your business. Your business location, target market, and even your particular product or service may not match up exactly with the plans in our gallery. But, you don't need an exact match for it to be helpful. Instead, look for a plan that's related to the type of business you're starting.

For example, if you want to start a vegetarian restaurant, a plan for a steakhouse can be a great match. While the specifics of your actual startup will differ, the elements you'd want to include in your restaurant's business plan are likely to be very similar.

Use a business plan example as a guide

Every startup and small business is unique, so you'll want to avoid copying an example business plan word for word. It just won't be as helpful, since each business is unique. You want your plan to be a useful tool for starting a business —and getting funding if you need it.

One of the key benefits of writing a business plan is simply going through the process. When you sit down to write, you'll naturally think through important pieces, like your startup costs, your target market , and any market analysis or research you'll need to do to be successful.

You'll also look at where you stand among your competition (and everyone has competition), and lay out your goals and the milestones you'll need to meet. Looking at an example business plan's financials section can be helpful because you can see what should be included, but take them with a grain of salt. Don't assume that financial projections for a sample company will fit your own small business.

If you're looking for more resources to help you get started, our business planning guide is a good place to start. You can also download our free business plan template .

Think of business planning as a process, instead of a document

Think about business planning as something you do often , rather than a document you create once and never look at again. If you take the time to write a plan that really fits your own company, it will be a better, more useful tool to grow your business. It should also make it easier to share your vision and strategy so everyone on your team is on the same page.

Adjust your plan regularly to use it as a business management tool

Keep in mind that businesses that use their plan as a management tool to help run their business grow 30 percent faster than those businesses that don't. For that to be true for your company, you'll think of a part of your business planning process as tracking your actual results against your financial forecast on a regular basis.

If things are going well, your plan will help you think about how you can re-invest in your business. If you find that you're not meeting goals, you might need to adjust your budgets or your sales forecast. Either way, tracking your progress compared to your plan can help you adjust quickly when you identify challenges and opportunities—it's one of the most powerful things you can do to grow your business.

Prepare to pitch your business

If you're planning to pitch your business to investors or seek out any funding, you'll need a pitch deck to accompany your business plan. A pitch deck is designed to inform people about your business. You want your pitch deck to be short and easy to follow, so it's best to keep your presentation under 20 slides.

Your pitch deck and pitch presentation are likely some of the first things that an investor will see to learn more about your company. So, you need to be informative and pique their interest. Luckily, just like you can leverage an example business plan template to write your plan, we also have a gallery of over 50 pitch decks for you to reference.

With this gallery, you have the option to view specific industry pitches or get inspired by real-world pitch deck examples.

Ready to get started?

Now that you know how to use an example business plan to help you write a plan for your business, it's time to find the right one.

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General Contractor Business Plan

Your constructional expertise, contractual knowledge, and project management skills are enough for you to start a general contracting business. However, you need something more to succeed—a well-thought-out business plan.

Having a business plan can help you secure funding, set priorities, make informed decisions, and steer your business in the right direction.

Need help writing a business plan for your general contractor business? You’re at the right place. Our general contractor business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How to Write a General Contractor Business Plan?

Writing a general contractor business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Introduce Your Business:

Market opportunity:, product and services:.

• For instance, construction services, project management, construction consulting, and maintenance & repair can be included as services, and specialized expertise and competitive pricing can be part of your USPs.

Marketing & Sales Strategies:

Financial highlights:, call to action:.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your company. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

Business description:

• Residential construction
• Commercial Construction
• Civil construction
• Industrial construction
• Green building and sustainable construction

Company structure:

Mission statement:, business history:.

• Additionally, If you have received any awards or recognition for excellent work, describe them.

Future goals:

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the construction industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

Target Market:

• For instance, homeowners, property owners, real estate developers, and insurance companies can be a target audience for a general contracting company focusing on residential projects.

Market Size and Growth Potential:

• You may include statistics and information like the number of ongoing and upcoming residential or commercial projects, the value of construction spending, etc.

Competitive Analysis:

Market trends:.

• For instance, there is a growing demand for eco-friendly and sustainable construction practices; explain how you plan on dealing with this potential opportunity in the market.

Regulatory Environment:

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your construct contractor business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

Describe your services:

Mention the services your contracting business will offer. This list may include services like,

• Construction project management
• Renovation services
• Budgeting or cost estimation services
• Project coordination
• Maintenance and repair

Service Process:

Case studies:, additional services:.

In short, this section of your general contractor plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

Unique Selling Proposition (USP):

• For instance, timely project delivery, quality craftsmanship, competitive pricing, and sustainable practices can be some of the great USPs for a general contracting company.

Pricing Strategy:

Marketing strategies:, sales strategies:, customer retention:.

Overall, this section of your construction contractor business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your general contractor business, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

Staffing & Training:

• Include their qualifications, relevant experience, the training required, and the duties they will perform.

Operational Policies and Procedures:

Equipment & technologies:.

• Explain how these technologies help you maintain quality standards and improve the efficiency of your business operations.

Contingency Plans:

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your general contractor business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Founders/CEO:

Key managers:.

• It should include key executives, general contractors, and other department managers (e.g. project manager, safety manager.) involved in the business operations, including their education, professional background, and any relevant experience in the industry.

Organizational structure:

Compensation plan:, advisors/consultants:.

• So, if you have any advisors or consultants, include them with their names and brief information consisting of roles and years of experience.

This section should describe the key personnel for your general contracting services, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

Profit & loss statement:

Cash flow statement:, balance sheet:, break-even point:.

• This exercise will help you understand how much revenue you need to generate to sustain or be profitable.

Financing needs:

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the construction industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your general contractor business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This general contractor business plan sample will provide an idea for writing a successful general contractor plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our general contractor business plan pdf.

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Frequently asked questions, why do you need a general contractor business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful general contractor business. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your general contractor company.

How to get funding for your general contractor business?

There are several ways to get funding for your general contractor business, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

Small Business Administration (SBA) loan

Crowdfunding, angel investors.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your general contractor business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your general contractor business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your general contractor business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any general contractor business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software.

About the Author

Vinay Kevadiya

Vinay Kevadiya is the founder and CEO of Upmetrics, the #1 business planning software. His ultimate goal with Upmetrics is to revolutionize how entrepreneurs create, manage, and execute their business plans. He enjoys sharing his insights on business planning and other relevant topics through his articles and blog posts. Read more

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