Learn how to build a presentation that wows investors and lenders.

Are you a small business that wants to raise capital?

There is much mystery when it comes to creating a successful business plan. Many business owners believe that there is some sort of “black magic” that has to be used if their business plan is going to receive funding.

Sure, it certainly sounds ridiculous, but the truth of the matter is that most people have no idea how a business plan can provide them with funding. In their minds, it is simply a matter of luck and nothing more—yet nothing could be further from the truth.

Fact is, crafting a business plan that will entice investors to throw money at your company has nothing to do with luck, nor does it have anything to do with hoping that you catch investors on a good day. Business plans that receive funding have core attributes in common. Below are the top three things that every successful business plan has in common.

Tailor your business plan to be more aligned with the attributes below, and you will have a rock-solid business plan that will force any investor to stop what they are doing and take a second look.

Easy-to-Digest, 90-Second Vision for the Company

Every business plan needs to showcase exactly what the company’s vision actually is—but that is not enough. You only have roughly two minutes (and that is being generous) to articulate the overall vision of your company to investors.

Not only that, but whenever you provide this vision to them, they need to be able to easily digest everything that you are saying the first time around. Be unforgettable while sharing your clear vision for your company, and you will have the eyes and ears of your potential investors.

A Team That Delivers on Your Company’s Vision

You may prove that you have a clear vision for your company, but that is not enough. You see, a company is only as good as its team. You cannot do this alone.

Despite how awesome your business plan may be, if your potential investors have no indication that your team can deliver on your promise (i.e. your vision), then they are going to politely say, “Thanks, but no thanks.” Thus, you need to ensure that you have a team of professionals who are ready and ecstatic about delivering the results of your vision—and you need to reflect this in your business plan. Include the last ingredient to your business plan …

Confident, Quick Answers to Financial Inquiries

And you will have a business plan that is on its way to receiving funding.

If you can prove that you have a clear-cut idea regarding how your company is going to earn, spend and earn money (and again, this is reflected in the business plan), investors are going to take note.

Be sure that you are confident with your answers as well. Confidence goes a long ways, and whenever potential investors notice that what you are saying is backed up in the business plan? Investors interested in your company’s niche are going to be crazy to pass on the opportunity.

Cheree Warrick is nationally known author, speaker and expert on the craft of writing exceptionally effective business plans for new and growing companies. She’s the author of “Creating Business Plans That Actually Get Financed.”
www.theprofitpartner.com