Sample business plans and templates can help you develop a professional document that will serve as an in-depth marketing tool to convince others of your venture's potential for success. However, creating your own plan can be a complex process, and you may need the assistance of a professional (like an accountant) depending on the type of business you have (or want to run), and what you are seeking in terms of investment.
Business development organizations and Canadian banks have free templates, writing guides, sample plans, and even interactive tools available online. These resources allow you to walk through a plan line by line. You will get a sense of the information you might be asked to provide when you are looking for financing, for example.
While many of these online tools are free, you may choose to purchase software that will help you prepare your plans and forecasts.
Business development organizations
These organizations may provide tools to help their clients prepare professional business plans through their regional offices or via the Web.
- SBC Ontario - What is a business plan?
Take a free online small business course about various types of business plans and how these might fit your business and intended audience. - CBDC - Business plan
You can use this fillable business planning tool to prepare your business plan. - BDC - Business plan template
You can create your own professional business plan with the help of the BDC sample plan and business plan template. - Futurpreneur - Business plan writer
Are you ready to start your business? You can use this online tool to develop, write, and download your business plan. - Planning for success: your guide to preparing a business and marketing plan
Learn about 9 essential sections of a business plan and what to include in each one.
Canadian banks and lenders
If you approach a bank for help with financing, the bankers will want your business plan to include the specific information they need to make their decision. These requirements may vary from one bank to another, and from one type of business to another. Therefore, if you know which institution(s) you would like to speak with, it's a good idea to see what key sections they would like included.
- Bank of Montreal - Tools and tips for small business owners
Find planning resources that can help you start, grow and improve your business. - RBC - Starting a business
Learn about key sections of a business plan. - Scotiabank - Business plan writer
Access an interactive tool to help you create an effective business plan. - National Bank - My Business Model
If you are starting or growing a business, use this business model tool to help with your planning process. - Farm Credit Canada - Business plan tools
Get business plan information specific to farm operations and agriculture businesses.