Writing a Business Plan

Why write a business plan?

A business plan is mandatory when you want to interest investors via DISCOVER SURINAME. A business plan is essential if you're thinking about seeking finance for your company.

Your business plan summarises the plans you have for your business and makes you examine whether your plans are viable and whether a market exists for your product or service.

Drafting a business plan also forces you to make certain choices and helps you avoid overlooking any important issues.

Business Plan Template

Preparing a business plan

Your idea is the basis for your future business. Perhaps you've been thinking about this for quite some time now, but hadn't got as far as putting it into writing. Try to put your idea into writing in no more than a few sentences. Refine your idea as far as you can. In effect, this is the start of your business plan. Once you've succeeded in explaining your idea in just a few sentences, you'll notice that writing a business plan becomes a lot easier, as it provides sharper focus. You can also give it to others to read to get tips and feedback.

Using a business plan format

A business plan format is useful if you're thinking about drafting a business plan. Sample business plan formats are available online for download. Alternatively, you could hire a business consultant to write a business plan together with you.

Business plan checklist

Either way, a business plan should address the following issues:

Your idea – described in concrete terms.
Your financial plan – how much money will you need and where will this come from?
Your organisational plan – how will you set up your administrative system and arrange your insurance cover?
Your marketing plan – who are your customers and your competitors?
Details – describe in concrete terms how you intend to put your idea into practice.
Personal details – information about your entrepreneurial skills and/or business acumen.

Tips for writing a business plan:

Use a template.
You need to write it yourself. You should not have someone write the business plan for you. Writing the business plan will focus.
You need to do research in why and how clients buy goods, products or services.
You need to do research in what your competitors do: why and how.
You need get into contact with your potential perfect clients and collect information about their interests and challenges. Build a persona.
Start with a short summary or introduction.
Set aside plenty of time to write your plan.
Be realistic and honest.
Ask others for feedback

Sources: gov.uk and business.gov.nl

Personal Support and Guidance

For personal support, guidance and questions about writing a business plan, contact DISCOVER SURINAME, Mrs. Lew. For contact details see the right or the bototm of the this page.