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How to Write a Professional Business Plan for a Loan

• March 27, 2024

11 Min Read

So, are you thinking of getting a loan or funding to start an exciting business journey?

That’s great! But before you go any further, it’s very important to have a solid business plan in place.

Well, we understand that creating a successful plan for a loan can be a daunting task. That’s why we’re here to help you!

This investment-ready business plan template for loans will help you include all the essential elements in your plan, from summarizing your business concept to projecting the financial data. It not only impresses business loan lenders but also sets the stage for success.

Ready to get started? Let’s first understand how business plans will help you with loan proposals.

How business plans help in loan applications?

A business plan is a professional document that serves as a written loan proposal if you want to secure a loan for capital investment. It details every aspect of your business, including its concept, goals, market opportunity, and financial data.

Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or a small business owner, you’ll need a well-prepared business plan. It helps you persuade potential investors or lenders of its viability and potential for success.

Here are a few primary reasons why business plans are necessary in loan applications:

It helps you showcase your vision

A well-written business plan communicates your business vision effectively and allows you to demonstrate your clarity of purpose and strategic direction. It offers lenders a compelling narrative of what your business is aimed for and how it will achieve its goals.

It helps you prove your financial feasibility

Well, lenders need assurance that they’re making a wise investment. A detailed business plan presents them with realistic financial projections, along with how your business will earn money and repay the loan. This infuses confidence in lenders and convinces them that your business is a safe bet.

It helps you mitigate potential risks

Once you start your business, it naturally involves fair enough risks. However, a good business plan clarifies that you’re aware of those challenges and have backup plans or strategies to mitigate them. This shows lenders that you’ve considered different situations and keep contingency plans in place.

It helps you demonstrate your preparedness

A business plan shows lenders that you’ve carefully outlined every aspect of your business—from conducting market analysis to predicting finances. It assures that you’re serious about your business and well-prepared to manage the ups and downs of starting a business.

In short, having a solid business plan can be the cornerstone of a successful loan application that explains your business idea and how you plan to utilize the loan money to get started.

Now that you know how business plans help in a loan application, it’s time to check out and understand the key elements of a business plan for a loan template.

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Key components of a successful business plan for a loan

1. executive summary.

An executive summary is the first section of the plan, providing a concise overview of the entire business plan.

Generally, it is written in the last, as it summarizes the most important components you mentioned in your plan.

Since the potential investors or lenders would read this section first, make sure that you keep it simple, crisp, and compelling to build their confidence in your business. Also, it should not be more than 1 or 2 pages.

You may write your executive summary with a precise explanation of your business concept, the type of business you operate, and its status.

Here are a few primary elements you must add to your summary:

• Your company’s mission statement
• The product or service you intend to offer
• Market Opportunity
• Management team’s background and experience
• Growth plans or long-term objectives
• Financial projections and funding needs

2. Company Overview

As you’ll give a brief introduction in the executive summary, this chapter will expand on it, providing an in-depth understanding of your business.

Company description includes all the business-related facts, such as the startup concept, vision-mission statements, company location, etc. Also, it explains the problems or challenges you aim to solve.

In addition to that, consider answering a few questions that would help lenders to grasp the significance of your business:

• What is the legal structure of your business?
• Who is the business owner?
• Do you have any business partners?
• Why did you start this business, and when it was founded?
• What are your business accomplishments to date?
• Who will get benefits from your company’s product or service?

Note that the company overview section can be regarded as your extended elevator pitch.

So, it’s a good opportunity to present your business’s specific details and structural aspects that the financing partner needs to know.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section provides readers with a deep understanding of the specific industry or market in which you plan to serve.

This seems unnecessary but serves different purposes. Those who are looking to fund a franchise business should do some serious work for this section, as lenders will review it very closely.

To carefully draft this section, you should conduct thorough market research and industry analysis to define your target customers, industry trends, market demand, and competitors.

This will demonstrate that you understand the market dynamics and validate the demand for your products or services.

Here are a few elements you should include in your market analysis section:

• Ideal target market
• Market size and growth potential
• Customer segments
• Competitive analysis
• Emerging trends
• Applicable government regulations

4. Product or Service Offerings

In this section, you may provide a detailed description of your products and service offerings, along with their features, benefits, and pricing structure.

It helps you highlight what your business offers to its ideal customers, how your offerings will satisfy their needs and explains the value proposition of your products or services.

You may consider including these points in the product or service section:

• A brief description of your product & service
• Pricing details
• Intellectual property, copyright, and patent filings
• Quality measures
• Any additional offerings

5. Sales and Marketing Strategies

Your marketing and sales plan elucidates how you intend to market your products or services in greater detail. It helps you outline the marketing and sales strategies you’ll use to attract and retain potential customers.

The primary goal is to give a flexible and practical marketing and sales strategy that persuades the lenders you know how to advertise or develop a public relations campaign to reach the company’s revenue goals.

For a well-crafted marketing plan, you might consider adding the following details in your plan:

• Your target audience and brand positioning
• Detailed marketing strategy
• Sales and marketing goals and KPIs
• Sales and marketing budgets
• Customer retention plan

While reviewing your loan application, lenders would like to know how you plan to make money and how you overcome marketing and sales challenges, so ensure that this strategy is always relevant.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section provides a clear picture of your company’s day-to-day operations and activities. It is a detailed-oriented section that outlines how you’ll manage to run your business smoothly.

Also, operational excellence is necessary to achieve your goals, satisfy client commitments, and maximize results. So, try to mention your operational intricacies and showcase efficient systems and processes.

Here are a list of details you must include in your operations plan:

• Staffing & training
• Operational processes
• Inventory needs and supplies
• facilities & technology
• Regulatory compliance

By offering insights into these operational aspects, this section helps you instill confidence in lenders about your ability to effectively handle and grow your company.

7. Management Team

Your management team section introduces the key individuals who are responsible for driving your business ahead.

It helps lenders easily understand your team’s roles & responsibilities, educational qualifications, industry experience, and how you plan to compensate your leadership team.

Even this will assure lenders that your team is capable enough to navigate challenges, make informed decisions, and reach strategic objectives. Also, they feel confident giving you a loan—even if it’s your startup.

So, you may consider including the below information:

• Company owner profile
• Resume-styled summary of key executives
• Organizational chart
• Compensation plan
• Details of advisory board members(if any)

8. Financial Plan

A well-written and comprehensive financial plan is one of the most crucial sections of your plan, as it helps you prove to lenders your business’s financial health, growth potential, and ability to repay the business loan.

So, your financial analysis must include the projected financial statements for three years or more. The following are the key financial projections that you should add:

• Income statements
• Cash flow statements
• Capital expenditure budgets
• Balance sheet
• Break-even analysis
• Funding requirements

As well as you should also list hard or soft collateral if you possess it so that you can put it up to get a loan. Even lenders may request to add more granular data(such as cost of sales or cost per product/service).

Note that if you’re a startup and don’t carry enough data to highlight, consider including estimated costs, revenue streams, and other strategic future projections you may have.

9. Appendix

The appendix is the last section of a professional business plan that typically provides supplementary information and other supporting documents the lender may need for better understanding.

You may include the following details in an appendix:

• Business licenses and permits
• Contractual agreements or other legal documents
• Letters of reference
• Credit histories and tax returns
• Key managers’ resumes and certificates
• Product photos

By adding these details, you offer more detailed explanations or validation for your business plan, strengthening your discussions and claims.

What factors do lenders look for in a business plan

When you submit a business plan to secure funding, lenders will analyze it to evaluate the viability and creditworthiness of your loan application. Here are several key factors they look for:

Character of your management team

Lenders will assess a business’ character that includes subjective or intangible qualities like whether its owners or key executives are perceived as honest, competent, or committed. Also, they consider educational background, industry experience, skills, leadership capabilities, and credit histories. This can be critical for evaluating prospects as most lenders don’t wish to lend to whom they don’t feel trustworthy.

Your capability to repay loans

Loan officers also spend a lot of time analyzing the borrower’s ability to repay the loan. They will thoroughly examine the financial statements such as projected revenue, expenses, cash flows, growth plans, and loan payments. Further, lenders analyze the financial history to see how much revenue you have generated or how much profit you have made in the past.

The capital amount you’re seeking

While reviewing loan applications, lenders will go through your financial information that highlights how much funding you’re seeking, how much cash you carry on hand, and how much debt you have. Also, they assess your personal financial investments as a sign of commitment and seriousness. So, make sure your business plan clearly outlines your investment amount and funding needs.

Collateral or personal guarantees

In some cases, lenders may request collateral or personal guarantees to secure the loan. Thus, you should document any assets or valuable items you can offer as collateral or additional security. Even lenders may still approve your loan without collateral if you have a good credit history and a reliable business plan.

By understanding these key considerations, you can prepare a business plan that resonates with the lender’s interests and concerns. Now, let’s move to a few business plan examples for a loan.

Business plan examples for a loan

When you’re just venturing into your entrepreneurship journey, crafting a comprehensive business plan for a loan application can be overwhelming.

So, try to consider some sample business plan templates or resources to get started on the first draft of your plan. Here are a few business plan examples that you may find helpful:

• Sample business plan outline
• Small business plan template
• Comprehensive business plan writing
• Business Plan Workbook for Loan Applications

Start preparing your business plan

Finally, you understand the importance and key elements of drafting a business plan for securing a loan or funding. But it requires some extra effort to find success down the road.

If you’re still confused about where to start, Upmetrics could be a great choice. It’s a modern business plan app that helps entrepreneurs or small business owners create an actionable plan quickly.

With Upmetrics, you’ll get easy-to-follow guides, a library of business plan templates , AI support, a financial forecasting tool, and other valuable resources to streamline your entire business planning approach.

So, don’t wait and start preparing your business plan for a loan!

Build your Business Plan Faster

with step-by-step Guidance & AI Assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need a business plan to get a loan.

Of course, most lenders or financial institutes require a solid business plan, even if you are a well-established business. A well-crafted business plan helps you highlight every essential information about your business and demonstrate to lenders that you have a realistic plan in place to generate income and repay the loan.

Can I write a business plan myself?

Definitely, you can write a business plan by yourself. Also, you can get help from various resources available, including business plan templates and guides, to create a comprehensive plan. But, if you’re unsure or need assistance, you may consider having a business plan software or hiring a professional writer.

How long should my business plan be?

The length of your business plan should be concise and focused,  typically depending on its purpose. A one-page business plan is a single-page document, a lean or mini business plan comprises 1-10 pages, while a comprehensive business plan can range from 15 to 35 pages and beyond.

What's the most important element of a loan-seeking business plan?

The financial plan is the most crucial element of a loan-seeking business plan, as lenders want to check realistic and well-structured financial forecasts that present your ability to repay the loan. Also, this section can make or break a lender’s confidence and willingness to raise capital.

What format should I use?

It’s essential to select a format that can effectively convey your business idea, strategy, and financial projections to the lenders. Following are a few common options to consider:

• Traditional text-based document
• PowerPoint or Keynote presentation deck
• Executive summary or a pitch deck

So, whatever format you choose, it should align with your preferences, the lender requirements, and the complexity of your business.

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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• Small Business

How to Write a Business Plan for a Loan

How to secure business financing

Matt Webber is an experienced personal finance writer, researcher, and editor. He has published widely on personal finance, marketing, and the impact of technology on contemporary arts and culture.

A business plan is a document that explains what a company’s objectives are and how it will achieve them. It contains a road map for the company from a marketing, financial, and operational standpoint. Some business plans are more detailed than others, but they are used by all types of businesses, from large, established companies to small startups.

If you are applying for a business loan , your lender may want to see your business plan. Your plan can prove that you understand your market and your business model and that you are realistic about your goals. Even if you don’t need a business plan to apply for a loan, writing one can improve your chances of securing finance.

Key Takeaways

• Many lenders will require you to write a business plan to support your loan application.
• Though every business plan is different, there are a number of sections that appear in every business plan.
• A good business plan will define your company’s strategic priorities for the coming years and explain how you will try to achieve growth.
• Lenders will assess your plan against the “five Cs”: character, capacity, capital, conditions, and collateral.

There are many reasons why all businesses should have a business plan . A business plan can improve the way that your company operates, but a well-written plan is also invaluable for attracting investment.

On an operational level, a well-written business plan has several advantages. A good plan will explain how a company is going to develop over time and will lay out the risks and contingencies that it may encounter along the way.

A business plan can act as a valuable strategic guide, reminding executives of their long-term goals amid the chaos of day-to-day business. It also allows businesses to measure their own success—without a plan, it can be difficult to determine whether a business is moving in the right direction.

A business plan is also valuable when it comes to dealing with external organizations. Indeed, banks and venture capital firms often require a viable business plan before considering whether they’ll provide capital to new businesses.

Even if a business is well-established, lenders may want to see a solid business plan before providing financing. Lenders want to reduce their risk, so they want to see that a business has a serious and realistic plan in place to generate income and repay the loan.

Every business is different, and so is every business plan. Nevertheless, most business plans contain a number of generic sections. Common sections are: executive summary, company overview, products and services, market analysis, marketing and sales plan, operational plan, and management team. If you are applying for a loan, you should also include a funding request and financial statements.

Let’s look at each section in more detail.

Executive Summary

The executive summary is a summary of the information in the rest of your business plan, but it’s also where you can create interest in your business.

You should include basic information about your business, including what you do, where you are based, your products, and how long you’ve been in business. You can also mention what inspired you to start your business, your key successes so far, and your growth plans.

Company Overview

In this section, focus on the core strengths of your business, the problem you want to solve, and how you plan to address it.

Here, you should also mention any key advantages that your business has over your competitors, whether this is operating in a new market or a unique approach to an existing one. You should also include key statistics in this section, such as your annual turnover and number of employees.

Products and Services

In this section, provide some details of what you sell. A lender doesn’t need to know all the technical details of your products but will want to see that they are desirable.

You can also include information on how you make your products, or how you provide your services. This information will be useful to a lender if you are looking for financing to grow your business.

Market Analysis

A market analysis is a core section of your business plan. Here, you need to demonstrate that you understand the market you are operating in, and how you are different from your competitors. If you can find statistics on your market, and particularly on how it is projected to grow over the next few years, put them in this section.

Marketing and Sales Plan

Your marketing and sales plan gives details on what kind of new customers you are looking to attract, and how you are going to connect with them. This section should contain your sales goals and link these to marketing or advertising that you are planning.

If you are looking to expand into a new market, or to reach customers that you haven’t before, you should explain the risks and opportunities of doing so.

Operational Plan

This section explains the basic requirements of running your business on a day-to-day basis. Your exact requirements will vary depending on the type of business you run, but be as specific as possible.

If you need to rent office space, for example, you should include the cost in your operational plan. You should also include the cost of staff, equipment, and any raw materials required to run your business.

Management Team

The management team section is one of the most important sections in your business plan if you are applying for a loan. Your lender will want reassurance that you have a skilled, experienced, competent, and reliable senior management team in place.

Even if you have a small team, you should explain what makes each person qualified for their position. If you have a large team, you should include an organizational chart to explain how your team is structured.

Funding Request

If you are applying for a loan, you should add a funding request. This is where you explain how much money you are looking to borrow, and explain in detail how you are going to use it.

The most important part of the funding-request section is to explain how the loan you are asking for would improve the profitability of your business, and therefore allow you to repay your loan.

Financial Statements

Most lenders will also ask you to provide evidence of your business finances as part of your application. Graphs and charts are often a useful addition to this section, because they allow your lender to understand your finances at a glance.

The overall goal of providing financial statements is to show that your business is profitable and stable. Include three to five years of income statements, cash flow statements, and balance sheets. It can also be useful to provide further analysis, as well as projections of how your business will grow in the coming years.

What Do Lenders Look for in a Business Plan?

Lenders want to see that your business is stable, that you understand the market you are operating in, and that you have realistic plans for growth.

Your lender will base their decision on what are known as the “five Cs.” These are:

• Character : You can stress your good character in your executive summary, company overview, and your management team section.
• Capacity : This is, essentially, your ability to repay the loan. Your lender will look at your growth plans, your funding request, and your financial statements in order to assess this.
• Capital : This is the amount of money you already have in your business. The larger and more established your business is, the more likely you are to be approved for finance, so highlight your capital throughout your business plan.
• Conditions : Conditions refer to market conditions. In your market analysis, you should be able to prove that your business is well-positioned in relation to your target market and competitors.
• Collateral : Depending on your loan, you may be asked to provide collateral , so you should provide information on the assets you own in your operational plan.

How Long Does It Take to Write a Business Plan?

The length of time it takes to write a business plan depends on your business, but you should take your time to ensure it is thorough and correct. A business plan has advantages beyond applying for a loan, providing a strategic focus for your business.

What Should You Avoid When Writing a Business Plan?

The most common mistake that business owners make when writing a business plan is to be unrealistic about their growth potential. Your lender is likely to spot overly optimistic growth projections, so try to keep it reasonable.

Should I Hire Someone to Write a Business Plan for My Business?

You can hire someone to write a business plan for your business, but it can often be better to write it yourself. You are likely to understand your business better than an external consultant.

Writing a business plan can benefit your business, whether you are applying for a loan or not. A good business plan can help you develop strategic priorities and stick to them. It describes how you are going to grow your business, which can be valuable to lenders, who will want to see that you are able to repay a loan that you are applying for.

U.S. Small Business Administration. “ Write Your Business Plan .”

U.S. Small Business Administration. “ Market Research and Competitive Analysis .”

U.S. Small Business Administration. “ Fund Your Business .”

Navy Federal Credit Union. “ The 5 Cs of Credit .”

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• Mar 30, 2023

The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Business Plan for a Loan: A Step-by-Step Walk-Through

The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Business Plan for a Loan: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

As a business plan specialist and expert business planner, I'm here to guide you through the process of writing a comprehensive business plan for securing a loan. Whether you're a start-up or an established business looking to expand, a well-crafted business plan is essential for impressing potential lenders and securing the funding you need.

In this extensive, 5,000-word article, I'll cover everything you need to know about creating a top-notch business plan that will boost your chances of loan approval. We'll go through each section in detail, providing you with practical examples and tips to optimize your plan for success. So, let's get started!

Executive Summary

The executive summary is the first and most critical section of your business plan. It's a brief overview of your entire plan, highlighting the key points and giving readers an insight into your business.

Key elements to include in your executive summary:

Business concept: Briefly explain your business idea, the products or services you plan to offer, and the target market.

Company overview: Provide essential information about your company, including its legal structure, location, and mission statement.

Management team: Showcase the expertise and experience of your management team, emphasizing their ability to lead the business.

Market opportunity: Describe the market demand, trends, and target audience, highlighting the opportunity for your business to succeed.

Financial highlights: Summarize your financial projections, including sales, profits, and cash flow.

Loan purpose: Clearly state the purpose of the loan and the amount you're seeking.

Remember, the executive summary is often the first thing lenders read, so make it engaging and informative to grab their attention.

Company Description

The company description section is where you provide a more in-depth look at your business. It should give readers a clear understanding of your company's purpose, goals, and competitive advantages.

Key elements to include in your company description:

Business history: If your company has an existing history, briefly describe its origins and milestones achieved.

Mission statement: Articulate the purpose of your company and the value you aim to provide to customers.

Objectives: Outline the specific goals you want to achieve with your business, both short-term and long-term.

Products and services: Provide a detailed description of the products or services you plan to offer, emphasizing the benefits they provide to customers.

Target market: Identify your target audience, specifying their demographics, psychographics, and buying habits.

Competitive advantage: Explain what sets your business apart from the competition and how you plan to maintain this edge.

Market Analysis

The market analysis section demonstrates your understanding of the industry, market, and competition. It's crucial to show lenders that you've done your homework and have a comprehensive understanding of the market landscape.

Key elements to include in your market analysis:

Industry overview: Provide a high-level view of your industry, including its size, growth trends, and key players.

Market segmentation: Break down your target market into smaller segments, identifying their unique needs and preferences.

Target market characteristics: Describe the specific characteristics of your target market, such as demographics, psychographics, and geographic location.

Market demand: Present evidence of market demand, using data on customer needs, market trends, and buying behaviors.

Competitor analysis: Evaluate your main competitors, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and market share.

SWOT analysis: Conduct a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) to assess your business's position in the market.

Marketing and Sales Strategy

In this section, outline your marketing and sales strategy to show lenders how you plan to attract and retain customers, as well as generate revenue. A well-defined marketing and sales strategy is crucial to demonstrate that you have a clear plan for growth and profitability.

Key elements to include in your marketing and sales strategy:

Marketing objectives: Define your marketing goals, such as brand awareness, lead generation, or customer retention.

Target audience: Reiterate your target market, emphasizing their needs and preferences.

Unique selling proposition (USP): Highlight your USP, the main reason customers should choose your products or services over the competition.

Marketing channels: Identify the marketing channels you plan to use, such as social media, email, content marketing, or paid advertising. Explain the rationale behind your choice of channels and how they align with your target audience.

Sales process: Describe your sales process, from lead generation to closing deals. Include details on your sales team structure, training, and compensation plans.

Key performance indicators (KPIs): List the KPIs you'll use to measure the success of your marketing and sales efforts, such as conversion rates, average deal size, or customer lifetime value.

Operations Plan

The operations plan section details the day-to-day activities required to run your business. It shows lenders that you have a clear understanding of the operational aspects of your company and the resources needed to support your growth.

Key elements to include in your operations plan:

Facilities: Describe your business's physical location, including its size, layout, and any equipment or machinery required.

Production process: If applicable, detail your production process, including the steps involved, quality control measures, and production capacity.

Supply chain: Outline your supply chain, identifying key suppliers, procurement processes, and inventory management practices.

Staffing: Explain your staffing requirements, including the roles, responsibilities, and qualifications of each team member.

Management structure: Provide an organizational chart, showcasing your company's management structure and reporting lines.

Legal and regulatory requirements: Identify any relevant legal or regulatory requirements, such as licenses, permits, or certifications needed to operate your business.

Financial Plan

The financial plan is arguably the most crucial section of your business plan when applying for a loan. It demonstrates your ability to manage finances, make informed decisions, and, ultimately, repay the loan.

Key elements to include in your financial plan:

Revenue projections: Estimate your future sales, breaking them down by product or service category and showing growth rates over time.

Expense projections: Forecast your expenses, including fixed costs (e.g., rent, utilities) and variable costs (e.g., marketing, salaries).

Cash flow statement: Provide a detailed cash flow statement, showing how cash will flow in and out of your business over a specified period (typically 12 months).

Profit and loss statement: Create a profit and loss statement that projects your business's profitability over time.

Balance sheet: Prepare a balance sheet that showcases your business's assets, liabilities, and equity.

Break-even analysis: Calculate the point at which your business will break even, meaning your revenues equal your expenses.

Loan repayment schedule: Detail your proposed loan repayment schedule, including the loan amount, interest rate, repayment terms, and projected date of full repayment.

The appendices section is where you can include any additional documents or supporting materials that are relevant to your business plan. These documents may provide further evidence of your company's viability and help strengthen your case for securing a loan.

Examples of items to include in the appendices:

Resumes of key team members

Product samples or prototypes

Market research data or surveys

Letters of intent or contracts with suppliers, partners, or customers

Intellectual property documentation, such as patents, trademarks, or copyrights

Relevant licenses, permits, or certifications

Writing a comprehensive business plan for a loan can seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach and guidance, it's an achievable goal. By following the step-by-step instructions outlined in this article, you can create a well-structured, persuasive business plan that will greatly improve your chances of securing the funding you need. Remember to:

Pay close attention to your executive summary, as it sets the tone for the entire plan.

Be thorough and detailed in your market analysis, showing a deep understanding of your industry and target audience.

Develop a solid marketing and sales strategy to demonstrate your ability to attract and retain customers.

Address the operational aspects of your business, including staffing, facilities, and supply chain management.

Present a robust financial plan, complete with projections and a loan repayment schedule.

By doing so, you'll showcase your expertise, commitment, and preparedness to potential lenders, significantly increasing the likelihood of obtaining the loan your business needs to grow and succeed.

In addition to following the steps outlined in this guide, consider seeking professional assistance from a business plan consultant or specialist to review and refine your plan. Their expertise can help you identify any areas that may need improvement and ensure that your business plan is optimized for success.

Finally, remember to continuously update your business plan as your business evolves. Regular updates will ensure that your plan remains relevant and accurate, providing you with a valuable roadmap for your business's future growth and development.

With dedication, persistence, and a well-crafted business plan, you can secure the funding you need to bring your business vision to life. Good luck, and here's to your success!

• Writing Your Business Plan
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How to Write a Business Plan for a Loan

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Business plan 101.

Introduction

Securing a loan for your business can be a game-changer, providing the capital needed to start, expand, or stabilize operations. But to get that loan, you’ll need a compelling business plan that convinces lenders of your business’s potential and reliability. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of crafting a winning business plan tailored for loan approval. Whether you’re a startup seeking initial fund raising or an established business in need of financial support, these steps will help you create a roadmap for success.

Understanding Your Business Needs

Determining the Purpose of the Loan

Before diving into the intricacies of your business plan, you must first understand the purpose of the loan. Be specific about why you need financing. Is it for startup capital, expansion, working capital, or a particular project? Identifying the exact purpose sets the foundation for the rest of your plan.

Assessing How Much Capital Is Required

Once you’ve pinpointed the purpose, assess how much capital is needed to achieve your goals. This calculation should include both the immediate requirements and any contingencies. Accurate financial projections play a crucial role in this step.

Identifying the Specific Uses of the Loan Funds

In your business plan, clearly outline how the loan funds will be used. Break down the allocation of funds, whether it’s for equipment purchase, hiring staff, marketing efforts, or debt consolidation. Providing this level of detail demonstrates your financial prudence.

Executive Summary

The executive summary is your opportunity to make a powerful first impression on lenders. This concise section should encapsulate your business’s essence and your loan request.

Crafting a Concise Overview

Begin with a succinct overview of your business, including its mission and a brief description. Clearly state the loan amount you’re seeking and the purpose of the loan. Remember, lenders often use the executive summary as a screening tool, so make it engaging and compelling.

Key Components of an Effective Executive Summary

A well-crafted executive summary includes vital information, such as your business’s history, its growth potential, financial highlights, and the qualifications of your management team. Each sentence should serve the purpose of convincing lenders to read further.

Capturing the Lender’s Attention

Your executive summary should be compelling enough to make lenders want to learn more about your business. Craft it carefully, as it’s the first thing they’ll see. Make sure it hooks them right from the start.

Business Description

In this section, provide an in-depth look at your business.

Providing an In-Depth Look at Your Business

Start by offering insights into your business’s history, its legal structure, location, and ownership. Highlight any unique achievements, milestones, or recognition your business has received.

Discussing Your Industry, Market, and Target Audience

Delve into your industry and market. Share your market research findings, including industry trends, market size, and demographics of your target audience. Showcase your understanding of the competitive landscape.

Explaining Your Business’s Unique Value Proposition

Clearly articulate what sets your business apart from competitors. Explain how your products or services fulfill a specific need or solve a problem for your target customers. Emphasize your unique value proposition.

Market Analysis

This section requires thorough market research and analysis.

Conducting Thorough Market Research

Explain the methods and sources you used to gather market data. This could include surveys, industry reports, or competitor analysis. Cite relevant statistics and sources to support your claims.

Analyzing Industry Trends and Competition

Interpret the data you’ve collected. Identify opportunities, threats, and gaps in the market. Discuss how your business plans to capitalize on these insights. Provide a detailed analysis of your competitors, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses.

Demonstrating a Solid Understanding of Your Market

Summarize your market analysis by showcasing key insights. Discuss the growth potential of your industry, significant challenges, and your business’s positioning within this landscape. Use data and statistics to support your arguments.

Organization and Management

This section introduces your business’s structure and team.

Detailing Your Company’s Structure

Provide an organizational chart or a description of how your business is structured. Explain the hierarchy, roles, and reporting relationships within your organization.

Introducing Key Team Members and Their Roles

Highlight the qualifications, experiences, and contributions of your management team. Explain why they are well-equipped to drive the business forward. Include resumes or profiles as appendices.

Highlighting Your Team’s Qualifications

Emphasize the educational backgrounds, relevant industry experience, and any notable achievements of your team members. This builds credibility and trust with lenders.

Products or Services

This section focuses on what your business offers.

Describing Your Offerings

Provide a detailed description of your products or services. Explain their features, benefits, and pricing structures. Use clear and concise language to ensure lenders understand what you offer.

Emphasizing the Benefits to Customers

Articulate how your offerings solve problems or fulfill needs for your customers. Highlight the unique selling points that make your products or services attractive.

Discussing Product/Service Development and Innovation

If applicable, discuss your plans for product or service development and innovation. Show that you’re forward-thinking and prepared to adapt to changing market demands.

Marketing and Sales Strategy

This section outlines your approach to reaching and retaining customers.

Outlining Your Marketing Plan

Explain your marketing strategies, including digital marketing, traditional advertising, public relations, and social media. Discuss how you plan to raise brand awareness and attract potential customers.

Defining Your Sales Strategy and Channels

Detail your sales strategy. Describe the channels you’ll use to reach your target audience. Discuss your sales team’s role if you have one. Explain how you intend to convert leads into customers.

Demonstrating How You’ll Attract and Retain Customers

Elaborate on your customer acquisition strategies and retention efforts. Discuss loyalty programs, customer relationship management, or any other initiatives aimed at ensuring customer satisfaction and repeat business.

Funding Request

In this section, specify the loan amount you’re seeking and how you plan to use it.

Specifying the Loan Amount You’re Seeking

Clearly state the exact amount of funding you’re requesting. Explain why this amount is necessary to achieve your business objectives.

Explaining How the Funds Will Be Used

Provide a breakdown of how the loan funds will be allocated. Be specific about which aspects of your business will benefit from this investment. This level of transparency demonstrates responsible financial planning.

Providing a Clear Repayment Plan

Discuss the terms of loan repayment, including interest rates, repayment periods, and any collateral you’re offering as security. Lenders want assurance that their investment will be repaid on schedule.

Financial Projections

This section focuses on creating realistic financial forecasts.

Creating Realistic Financial Forecasts

Explain the process of developing financial projections. This includes sales forecasts, income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow projections. Stress the importance of basing these projections on thorough research and realistic assumptions.

Including Income Statements, Balance Sheets, and Cash Flow Projections

Provide samples of these financial statements, highlighting key metrics such as revenue, expenses, assets, liabilities, and cash flow. Explain the significance of each statement in assessing your business’s financial health.

Discussing Your Assumptions and Methodology

Transparently present the assumptions that underlie your financial projections. Discuss the methodology you used to arrive at these numbers. Lenders need to trust the accuracy and reliability of your financial data.

Risk Assessment

Identify potential risks and demonstrate your strategies for mitigating them.

Identifying Potential Risks and Challenges

Discuss the major risks your business may face, whether they’re industry-specific, economic, or internal. Lenders appreciate your candid assessment of potential pitfalls.

Demonstrating Your Risk Mitigation Strategies

Outline concrete steps you’ll take to mitigate the identified risks. This reassures lenders that their investment is protected and that you have contingency plans in place.

Reassuring Lenders of Your Ability to Handle Adversity

Emphasize your business’s resilience by sharing past experiences of successfully navigating challenges. Highlight your ability to adapt and thrive even in adverse conditions.

Include supplementary documents and data to support your business plan.

Including Supplementary Documents and Data

List the additional documents that support your business plan. These might include resumes of key team members, market research data, legal documents, or letters of recommendation. Provide context for why each document is included.

Examples Might Include Resumes, Market Research, or Additional Financial Information

Offer examples of what these supplementary documents might look like and how they strengthen your case. Show that you’ve done your due diligence in preparing a comprehensive plan.

Tips for a Successful Loan Application

In this section, offer practical advice on presenting your plan.

Offering Practical Advice on Presenting Your Plan

Share tips on creating a visually appealing and well-organized document. Discuss formatting and design considerations, ensuring that your business plan is easy to navigate.

Discussing Common Mistakes to Avoid

Highlight common pitfalls that applicants should steer clear of, such as overestimating sales projections or downplaying risks. Addressing these mistakes proactively can enhance your credibility.

Highlighting the Importance of Preparation

Stress the value of meticulous preparation. Encourage applicants to double-check financial data, rehearse their presentations, and seek feedback from mentors or advisors.

In conclusion, crafting a business plan for a loan is a strategic endeavor that can significantly impact your business’s future. It’s not merely a document; it’s your roadmap to success and a testament to your commitment to financial prudence. By following the steps outlined in this guide, backed by thorough research, realistic financial projections, and a clear vision, you can present a compelling case to lenders. Remember, a well-structured business plan not only increases your chances of securing a loan but also sets the stage for your business’s growth and prosperity.

At Stellar Business , we understand the importance of a strong business plan in obtaining financing. Our team of experts can provide personalized guidance and support to help you create a business plan that stands out to lenders. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your business goals.

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Updated On : September 3, 2023

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How To Write a Business Plan For a Loan | Money

G etting the funds you need is a critical step for any new business . Many startups rely on business loans to get off the ground, but securing that loan hinges on a strong business plan . This plan acts as a roadmap for your small business by outlining your goals, strategies and financial projections . It convinces lenders of your viability and increases your chances of getting approved.

While writing a business plan might seem intimidating, understanding its key components and how lenders evaluate them can empower entrepreneurs to create a persuasive document. Here’s what you need to know.

Do you need a business plan to get a loan?

Absolutely. A business plan is essentially a detailed loan proposal. It addresses the questions lenders have about your business, showcasing its potential and your preparedness. It demonstrates the time and effort you’ve invested in planning and research, building confidence in your venture.

If you want to borrow money to fund your company, then, you need a business plan that’s detailed and requires a plethora of information. It tells the lender the business type, target market, strategies and more. It also reveals how you plan to make money, your projected expenses and expected revenues. Before taking on this challenging task, you must learn how to write a business plan .

Key elements of loan-focused business plan

Creating a business plan for a loan takes time, thought and effort. And it needs to contain the following components:

Executive summary

Even though the executive summary is the first paragraph in a business plan , it’s the last section you should write. The executive summary summarizes the main points of your plan and tells the lender why it should invest in your business idea . It’s a snapshot of your business’s highlights and states how much money you want to borrow.

You can choose a business plan template for loan requests to simplify the plan’s writing process instead of starting from scratch. Many templates suggest including your mission statement in the executive summary . The core goal of this initial section is to spark the lender ‘s interest in your company. If you can do that, the lender will continue reading it.

Company description

This section tells the lender your business type and the industry it’s in. It allows business owners to highlight their previous work, jobs and skills to demonstrate experience in the field. It states where your business will operate and who will run the company.

This section also provides the ideal opportunity to explain your commitment to the startup . Be as transparent and detailed as possible when describing this new endeavor. The number one goal of this section is for the lender to fully understand what your business does. Describing the business model you plan to use is also helpful, along with the growth plan you propose if you are successful.

Products or services

Every business sells products, services or a combination of both. Selling something — whether it be a product or a service — is how a business generates revenue. Start by describing in detail what your business will sell. Next, highlight the features that set your products and services apart from those of your competitors. List the patents or copyrights of your goods, if applicable, and list the things your business needs to operate. For example, you might need a building from which to operate or equipment to produce products.

Market analysis

Creating a business that offers a unique product or service is nearly impossible today. As a result, your business will likely compete with other businesses. You must address this by presenting a competitive analysis of your venture’s business goals and how it will stand out from others in the field.

What other local businesses have similar products or services? How do you plan to attract some of this market? Do you own relevant intellectual property that may help you to achieve success?

Include the results of your market research in the market analysis section of your business plan . You might include some details about your target customers, such as their demographics, and your planned pricing . Finally, include a brief synopsis of your marketing plan in this section..

Competitor analysis

Lenders want to know if your business will succeed before they approve your loan proposal. Therefore, they want to know that you’ve thoroughly researched your competition. You can list your competitors in this section, including their products and services, and what you see as your competitive advantages over them.

Next , give a more detailed analysis of what differentiates your services and products from theirs. What is unique about your company? What advantages will your company have over its competitors? Keep in mind that lenders base loan decisions on risk levels. If the lender can’t see the need for your business’s products, they might turn down the loan. The goal of this section is to convince the lender that there is a demand for your company’s products and services..

Marketing plan

Next , include specific details about your marketing strategy , including financial plans . How much money will you spend on marketing efforts? What methods will you use? How do you know they’ll be effective? Marketing is a massive part of a business strategy, so your plan must answer these questions.

Operational plan

The operational plan explains how you’ll execute your business startup to the lender . It reveals more details about your company’s location, its target market and the equipment and software you’ll use. Additionally, it explains the processes you’ll use to produce or sell your goods.

Management structure

A business plan must also list your management team . You might be the sole owner of the business, but will you work alone? If not, who will work for you?

Not only should you list colleagues’ names, but you should also describe each person’s experience, skills and qualifications. Additionally, explain staffers’ roles, duties and responsibilities and the hierarchy of the management structure.

Funding request

The purpose of writing a business plan is to request a loan. Therefore, you must include your funding requirements in the business plan . How much money do you want to borrow? How will you spend it? You should explain in detail how you will spend the funds, as this validates your need for the loan. The lender can see if you have a clear plan and if the plan makes sense.

Financial projections

This next section outlines your company’s projected profitability, which is vital for repaying the money you borrow. Lenders spend a lot of time reading through the financial parts of a funding request .

When writing this section, begin by stating your projected annual revenues for the next three to five years. Next , include income statements to highlight your company’s potential net profits. You can also include forecasted balance sheets , which help the lender see your assets, liabilities and capital. Graphs and other elements can be useful in this section.

Be sure to cover how business financing will allow your plan to flourish. Including a break-even report is helpful. This metric reveals how much you must sell to cover your expenses. For a lender , it reveals safety margins, helping lenders assess risk levels.

This section offers a place to add supporting documents to the plan. It should contain a list of your business licenses and permits needed to operate the company. You can also include your management teams ‘ resumes and a copy of your lease agreement for the space you’ll rent. Include any other documents the lender might want to see, such as contractor or business arrangements.

Many businesses hire lawyers to create their business entities. Include these legal documents if you created a business entity. If you haven’t created one yet, you should consider which type to use. An LLC is a good option, as it provides tax benefits and liability protection. You can look for the best LLC loans if you choose this route.

How lenders score your business loan application

You submit a business plan to secure funding, but a lender must approve the plan before you receive the loan. Lenders determine how to respond to business loan requests by analyzing the business plans they receive. To do this, they look at five primary things.

Your character reveals intangible qualities about you and those who will work with and for you. Lenders look for integrity and honesty and try to answer the question, “Is this person trustworthy?”

Lenders analyze your personal credit history and assess your credit score to determine your creditworthiness. In addition, lenders evaluate your job experience, reputation and qualifications. They also look at your previous endeavors to determine the risk level associated with offering you a business loan.

Lenders spend a lot of time analyzing a borrower’s ability to repay the money they borrow, and they call this capacity. Are you capable of repaying the money if they approve the loan? To determine the answer, your lender will thoroughly review your projected revenue.

Additionally, lenders analyze the forecasted financial statements , including such financial information as cash flow statements . Lenders review the products and services you’ll offer to ensure there is demand and consider your funding request and your plans for using it.

Next , the lender looks closely at your capital. They want to see how much money you have invested in the business and compare it with the amount you’re requesting.

Your investment shows your level of commitment. A large investment into your business startup shows the lender you’re serious about making it work. It also tells them you’ve researched it, worked hard on planning it and expect to make a good profit from it. Therefore, make sure your business plan clearly indicates your investment amount.

In addition to your investment, the lender wants to know what you can offer as collateral. For example, you could offer the building you’ll operate out of as collateral if you own it or have equity in it. You could also use equipment, machines or vehicles. Being willing to offer assets as collateral improves your odds of getting the loan.

Finally, lenders will look at the following conditions:

• Demand for your service: Proving a high demand for your products is critical to get a loan approved.
• Competition: Your lender will evaluate the competition and look for things that distinguish your business from your competitors.
• Trends and marketing strategies: Will there be a demand for your products in the future? If so, does your plan outline how you’ll reach more people? Lenders look at your digital marketing strategies, as this is the newer trend. It also looks at your advertising strategies, including your website, SEO strategies and inbound marketing plans.

Summary of Money’s how to write a business plan for a loan

Learning how to write a business plan for a loan is essential. Your chances of getting approved for startup funding are significantly higher with a clear, thorough and well-researched business plan. Your plan should contain a comprehensive description for each section, allowing the lender to learn as much as possible about your business endeavor. After submitting it, the lender will use the 5 Cs to analyze your loan proposal. A well-written and researched business plan is imperative for any new business startup or newly formed company that needs to borrow some cash.

© Copyright 2024 Money Group, LLC . All Rights Reserved.

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .

How To Write a Business Plan for Bank Loan in 9 Steps: Checklist

By alex ryzhkov, resources on bank loan.

• Financial Model
• Business Plan
• Value Proposition
• One-Page Business Plan

Are you an aspiring entrepreneur looking to secure a bank loan for your business venture? Well, you're not alone. The fee-based model for bank loans in the US has become the go-to solution for many borrowers. In fact, this business model has experienced significant growth over the years, making it a popular choice for funding. According to the latest statistics, the fee-based model accounts for XX% of all bank loans in the country. With its ability to provide financing options with flexible repayment schedules, it's no wonder that both banks and borrowers favor this model.

Now that you understand the importance and prevalence of the fee-based model, let's delve into how you can effectively write a business plan to obtain a bank loan. This comprehensive 9-step checklist will guide you through the process, ensuring that you cover all essential aspects. So, roll up your sleeves and let's get started!

• Conduct market research
• Identify target customers
• Analyze competition
• Determine the amount of funding required
• Gather necessary financial documents
• Outline the purpose and goals of the loan
• Create a company profile
• Develop a marketing and sales strategy
• Identify potential risks and mitigation strategies

Following these steps diligently will not only enhance your chances of securing a bank loan but also provide you with a solid foundation for your business. So, let's dive right into the first step - conducting market research!

Conduct Market Research

In order to write a comprehensive business plan that will appeal to a bank for a loan, it is crucial to conduct thorough market research. This step will provide you with valuable insights into the industry, target market, and competitive landscape. By understanding these key factors, you will be able to make informed decisions and create a strong case for the loan application.

Here are some important points to consider while conducting market research:

• Identify your target customers: Clearly define the specific group of customers who are most likely to benefit from your product or service. This will help you tailor your business plan to address their needs and preferences.
• Analyze the competition: Identify your main competitors and analyze their strengths, weaknesses, and market positioning. This will help you differentiate your business and showcase your unique value proposition.
• Understand market trends: Stay updated with the latest market trends, consumer behavior, and industry forecasts. This will help you identify potential opportunities and challenges that may impact your business.
• Evaluate market potential: Assess the size of your target market and determine the potential demand for your product or service. This will demonstrate to the bank that there is a viable market opportunity for your business.

Tips for conducting market research:

• Utilize online resources: Take advantage of online research tools and databases to gather industry reports, market data, and consumer insights.
• Conduct surveys or interviews: Engage with your target customers to gather firsthand feedback and insights about their needs and preferences.
• Join industry associations: Participate in trade associations and networking events to connect with industry professionals and gain valuable market insights.
• Stay updated with the competition: Regularly monitor your competitors' activities, such as their marketing strategies, product offerings, and pricing, to stay ahead of the game.

By conducting thorough market research, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of your target market, competition, and industry trends. This knowledge will enable you to develop a robust business plan that showcases the potential success and profitability of your business to the bank, increasing your chances of securing a loan.

Identify Target Customers

Identifying your target customers is a crucial step in developing a solid business plan for a bank loan. To ensure that your loan request is well-aligned with the needs and preferences of your customers, it is important to have a clear understanding of who they are.

The first step in identifying your target customers is conducting thorough market research. This involves gathering data and insights about the industry, market trends, and the needs and wants of potential customers. This information will help you narrow down your target audience and tailor your business plan to meet their specific needs.

Once you have gathered relevant market research data, you can start creating a profile of your ideal customer. Consider factors such as demographics, psychographics, and buying behavior. Demographics include characteristics such as age, gender, income level, and location. Psychographics, on the other hand, delve into your customers' interests, attitudes, and lifestyle choices.

Creating a customer profile will help you understand your target customers on a deeper level and enable you to develop targeted marketing strategies. This will increase the chances of your business being successful and appealing to both your customers and potential lenders.

Tips for Identifying Target Customers:

• Consider conducting surveys or interviews to gather direct feedback from potential customers.
• Utilize market segmentation techniques to identify specific customer groups that may have unique needs or preferences.
• Research your competitors and understand who their target customers are to gain insights.
• Monitor industry trends and patterns to identify emerging customer segments or target markets.

Analyze Competition

When seeking a bank loan, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of your competition in the market. Analyzing your competition will not only help you identify potential threats but also highlight areas where you can differentiate yourself and gain a competitive advantage.

Start by identifying direct competitors who offer similar products or services to yours. Research their market share, pricing strategies, distribution channels, and target customer demographics. This information will give you insights into their strengths and weaknesses.

Compare your products or services to those of your competitors and identify your unique selling points. What sets you apart from the competition? Do you have any patented technology, superior customer service, or innovative features that give you a competitive edge? Understanding these factors will help you position your business in a way that appeals to potential lenders.

Tips for Analyzing Competition:

• Subscribe to your competitors' newsletters and follow them on social media to stay updated on their latest offerings and marketing strategies.
• Visit their websites and evaluate their online presence. Look for customer reviews and testimonials to gauge customer satisfaction.
• Monitor industry publications and trade shows to gather information about new entrants, emerging trends, and market developments.
• Stay up-to-date with industry reports and market research to understand the overall competitive landscape.
• Consider conducting a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis to assess your business in relation to your competitors.

By thoroughly analyzing your competition, you can demonstrate to the bank that you have a solid understanding of the market landscape and have strategically positioned your business to succeed.

Determine The Amount Of Funding Required

When applying for a bank loan, it is crucial to determine the exact amount of funding your business needs. This will help you create a clear and realistic financial plan that aligns with your goals and allows you to meet your financial obligations.

Here are a few steps to help you determine the funding required:

• Evaluate your business expenses: Start by analyzing your current and future expenses. This includes everything from rent, utilities, and salaries to inventory and marketing costs. Consider any upcoming investments or expansion plans that may require additional funding.
• Estimate revenue projections: Assess your business's revenue potential based on market research, customer demand, and past performance. Take into account any potential growth opportunities or challenges that may affect your financial projections.
• Factor in contingencies: It's always wise to include a contingency fund to account for unexpected expenses or changes in the market. This will provide a buffer and ensure that your business can withstand any unforeseen circumstances.
• Be specific and detailed in your estimations to provide a realistic picture of the funding required.
• Consult with financial professionals or advisors to get a better understanding of your business's financial needs.
• Consider getting quotes or estimates from vendors and suppliers to accurately calculate the funding required.
• Regularly review and update your financial plan to reflect any changes in your business's needs or circumstances.

By carefully determining the amount of funding required, you can present a comprehensive and well-prepared business plan to your bank, increasing your chances of securing the loan you need to fuel your business's growth and success.

Gather Necessary Financial Documents

Gathering the necessary financial documents is a crucial step in the process of writing a business plan for a bank loan. These documents provide the bank with a clear understanding of your financial situation and help them evaluate the feasibility and potential of your business. Here are the essential financial documents you will need to gather:

• Profit and Loss Statement (P&L): A P&L statement provides an overview of your company's revenues, costs, and expenses over a specific period. It helps the lender assess your profitability and sustainability.
• Balance Sheet: A balance sheet provides a snapshot of your company's financial position at a particular point in time. It lists your assets, liabilities, and equity and enables the lender to evaluate your financial stability and ability to repay the loan.
• Cash Flow Statement: A cash flow statement shows the inflow and outflow of cash in your business. It helps the lender understand how effectively your company manages its cash resources and assesses your ability to generate sufficient funds to repay the loan.
• Business Tax Returns: Including your business tax returns for the past few years demonstrates your company's financial history and compliance with tax regulations. It validates the accuracy of your financial statements and enhances the lender's confidence in your business.
• Personal Tax Returns: Personal tax returns may be required if you are a sole proprietor or a small business owner. This document assists the bank in evaluating your personal financial situation and any potential impact on your ability to repay the loan.
• Bank Statements: Providing bank statements helps the lender assess your company's cash flow, bank balances, and transaction history. It offers insight into your financial activities and can support the accuracy of your financial projections.
• Financial Projections: Creating realistic financial projections is essential to demonstrate your future revenue potential and repayment ability. Ensure that your financial projections align with industry standards and are supported by market research and analysis.
• Organize your financial documents in a well-structured manner to make it easier for the lender to review.
• Ensure the accuracy and consistency of your financial documents to build trust and credibility with the bank.
• Consult an accountant or financial advisor to ensure your financial documents are comprehensive and meet the requirements of the bank.
• Keep your financial documents up-to-date and maintain records of any significant changes or updates.
• Include any additional supporting documents that may strengthen your loan application, such as business licenses, contracts, or insurance policies.

Outline The Purpose And Goals Of The Loan

When applying for a bank loan, it is crucial to clearly outline the purpose and goals of the loan . This not only helps the bank understand your business needs but also increases your chances of securing the funding you require. Here are some important points to consider:

• Specify the exact amount of funding you need and how it will be utilized. This could include purchasing inventory, expanding operations, investing in technology, or hiring additional staff.
• Identify the specific goal or objective of the loan. Is it to increase market share, launch a new product or service, or improve efficiencies in your business operations?
• Provide a timeline for achieving the goals outlined. This will demonstrate to the bank that you have a clear plan in place and helps establish realistic expectations for loan repayment.
• Outline the anticipated impact of the loan on your business. Will it result in increased revenue, improved profitability, or enhanced customer satisfaction?
• Highlight any potential risks associated with the loan and explain how you plan to mitigate them. This shows the bank that you have carefully considered any potential challenges and have strategies in place to overcome them.
• Including specific details and numbers can help strengthen your loan application.
• Clearly articulate how the loan will contribute to the growth and success of your business.
• Be realistic in setting goals and timelines to ensure feasibility.
• Demonstrate your understanding of potential risks and show how you are prepared to handle them.

Create A Company Profile

When applying for a bank loan, creating a strong company profile is crucial. This profile provides the bank with an overview of your business, its history, and its future prospects. It gives lenders confidence in your ability to repay the loan and showcases your business as a viable investment opportunity. Here are some important elements to include in your company profile:

• Company Overview: Start by providing a concise summary of your business, including its name, location, and legal structure. Give a brief description of your products or services, target market, and competitive advantages.
• Management Team: Highlight the qualifications and experience of your key personnel, including their roles within the company. This will demonstrate that your team has the necessary expertise to drive the business forward and manage loan repayments effectively.
• Financial Performance: Include key financial information, such as your company's revenue, profit margins, and cash flow. Show the bank that your business is financially stable and capable of generating sufficient income to cover loan repayments.
• Growth Potential: Outline your plans for growth and expansion. Explain how the loan will contribute to achieving your goals and increasing profitability. Be sure to include market research and industry trends to support your growth projections.
• Collateral: If you have collateral available to secure the loan, provide details about the assets that can be used as security. This could be real estate, inventory, equipment, or accounts receivable. Highlight the value of these assets and how they mitigate the bank's risk.
• Keep the profile concise and focused, highlighting the most important aspects of your business.
• Use clear and concise language to make the profile easy to understand.
• Include any awards, accolades, or industry certifications that reflect positively on your business.
• Provide references or testimonials from satisfied customers or clients to further enhance your credibility.

A well-crafted company profile can greatly increase your chances of securing a bank loan. It shows the lender that you have a solid business foundation, a capable management team, and a clear vision for growth. Remember to tailor the profile to the specific requirements of the bank and emphasize the aspects that are most relevant to their lending criteria.

Develop A Marketing And Sales Strategy

Developing a strong marketing and sales strategy is crucial for the success of your business, especially when seeking a bank loan. It demonstrates to the lender that you have a comprehensive plan to attract customers, generate revenue, and ultimately repay the loan. Here are some important steps to consider:

1. Understand your target market: Before developing your marketing and sales strategy, it's important to have a deep understanding of your target customers. Conduct market research to identify their needs, preferences, and behaviors. This will help you tailor your marketing efforts and messaging to effectively reach and attract your ideal customers.

2. Define your unique selling proposition (USP): Differentiate your business from competitors by identifying and promoting your unique selling proposition. This is what sets your product or service apart and makes it attractive to customers. Clearly communicate your USP in all your marketing materials to grab attention and convince potential customers why they should choose your business.

3. Develop a marketing plan: Outline the specific marketing activities you will undertake to promote your business. This may include online advertising, social media marketing, content marketing, email campaigns, traditional advertising, and more. Set realistic goals and allocate a budget for each marketing channel. Ensure your marketing plan aligns with your target market and USP.

4. Create a sales strategy: Your sales strategy outlines how you will convert leads into paying customers. Determine your sales process, including lead generation, nurturing, and closing techniques. Train your sales team (if applicable) to effectively communicate your value proposition and overcome objections. Consider whether you will offer any promotions or discounts to attract initial customers.

5. Utilize online channels: In today's digital age, online marketing is essential for reaching a wide audience. Establish a professional website that showcases your products or services. Leverage social media platforms relevant to your target market to engage with potential customers and build brand awareness. Consider implementing search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to improve your online visibility.

• Focus on building strong relationships with your customers to encourage repeat business and referrals.
• Monitor and measure the effectiveness of your marketing and sales efforts using analytics tools. This will help you identify what's working and what needs improvement.
• Stay informed about industry trends and adapt your marketing and sales strategies accordingly. Consumer preferences and behaviors can change over time, so it's important to stay relevant.

By developing a comprehensive marketing and sales strategy, you demonstrate to lenders that you have considered how to attract and retain customers, increasing your chances of securing a business loan. Keep refining and adapting your strategy as your business evolves to ensure long-term success.

Identify Potential Risks and Mitigation Strategies

Identifying potential risks is a crucial step in writing a business plan for a bank loan. Banks want to ensure that they are lending to a business that has considered all potential risks and has strategies in place to mitigate them. Here are some key risks to consider:

• Market Risks: Analyze the market conditions and assess any potential risks that could impact your business. This could include changes in consumer preferences, economic downturns, or competitor actions. Mitigation strategies may include diversifying your customer base, maintaining a competitive pricing strategy, or adapting your products/services to meet changing market trends.
• Operational Risks: Consider the potential risks associated with your day-to-day operations. This could include supply chain disruptions, equipment failure, or employee turnover. Mitigation strategies may include maintaining backup suppliers, implementing preventive maintenance plans, or investing in employee training and retention programs.
• Financial Risks: Evaluate the financial risks that your business may face, such as cash flow fluctuations, increasing expenses, or inability to meet debt obligations. Mitigation strategies may include creating a robust financial forecasting system, building a contingency fund, or negotiating favorable payment terms with suppliers.
• Regulatory and Compliance Risks: Be aware of any regulations or legal requirements that impact your industry and business operations. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, legal issues, and reputational damage. Mitigation strategies may include hiring legal professionals to ensure compliance, regularly reviewing and updating policies and procedures, and staying informed about changes in regulations.
• Be thorough in identifying potential risks and assess their potential impact on your business.
• Include specific mitigation strategies that are relevant to your industry and business model.
• Provide evidence or examples of how you have successfully mitigated risks in the past.
• Regularly review and update your risk assessment to adapt to changing circumstances and market conditions.

By demonstrating that you have identified potential risks and have strategies in place to mitigate them, you will instill confidence in the bank and increase your chances of securing a loan.

In conclusion, writing a business plan for a bank loan is a crucial step towards securing the funding needed to start or expand a business. By following the nine steps checklist outlined in this blog post, entrepreneurs can effectively present their business ideas to lenders, showcasing their market research, financial projections, and risk mitigation strategies. This comprehensive approach demonstrates professionalism and preparedness, increasing the chances of obtaining the desired loan amount at favorable terms. It is essential to remember that each bank may have its specific requirements, so adapting the business plan to meet their criteria is also crucial. By carefully crafting a business plan, entrepreneurs can position themselves for success and achieve their goals with the support of a bank loan.

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How to write a business plan

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Every business owner can benefit from writing a business plan, including those in the early stages of launching a business . A well-crafted business plan communicates the business’s strategy for growth to key leaders and investors. It’s also an important step to getting a business loan since many lenders require it.

Let’s walk through the steps and elements of writing your ideal business plan.

Key takeaways

• A business plan outlines how you plan to bring products or services to market
• Many lenders require a business plan be included with a loan application
• You can choose to write a lean or traditional business plan
• It covers everything from market research to your marketing and financial plan.

What is a business plan?

A business plan is a document that outlines a business’s strategy for bringing a product or service to market. It describes the company, product idea and goals or steps that the business will take to achieve growth. The document includes multiple sections that provide insight into each part of the strategy.

The business plan can be a simple document called a lean business plan or a more detailed traditional business plan. The lean business plan covers the basics of the company, product, target customers and how it will get revenue. It may only be one page with short descriptions for each part.

The traditional business plan includes more depth on the goals, measurements, research and marketing strategies to get the business where it’s going. Here are key differences in the information written for each type of business plan:

Although there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, follow these steps to create a strong business plan.

Write an executive summary

An executive summary is the introduction to a business plan, giving the key details about your business model and the product or service you’re offering. While there’s no strict formula for writing this section, you should include all the relevant details that you’d want a key partner or investor to know.

It should describe your product or service idea, target market and key objectives for growth within the next few years. It may also summarize your marketing and sources of revenue or funding.

You can adjust what to include based on the exact business you’re starting and its business model. Most business plans keep the executive summary to one to two pages.

Create a company description

The company description should overview important details about your company. It can state your company’s name, location and type of entity as well as describe its history. It should also clearly define the vision that you have for your company’s future in the form of a mission or vision statement.

You may also outline the structure for managing the business, listing key roles and responsibilities and the people filling those roles. Depending on the details you included in the executive summary, you might include information about your product or service.

Describe your value proposition

The value proposition is your chance to pitch what makes your business stand out. It identifies the customer’s problem or gap in the market for the product or service you’re offering. It then goes into detail about how your business will solve the problem.

The value proposition can also explain major barriers that customers have before making a decision and what your business will do to break through those barriers. It shows leaders and investors that you have a thoughtful purpose behind the business you’re creating.

State your business goals

The path to achieving success starts with knowing what success looks like. Many business plans state its main objectives in the company description. Others describe those goals in a separate part of the business plan to dive deeper into the specific goals.

You can also include key measurements you’ll use to gauge whether your business is achieving its goals. You would then use these goals in other business planning documents, further breaking them down into defined short-term steps that ladder up to the larger goals.

Outline your product and service

Next, you want to dive into the main product or service that your business is offering. Explain what the product is, how it works and the benefits that it brings to customers. If you’re planning to make multiple products, you can include a description of each product line. Show how this product or service is set apart from similar products from competitors.

You can also use this section to show how the product or service is produced, including cost of supplies and the price at which you plan to sell. Let the investors and stakeholders know if you have a trademark or patent for the products you’re creating.

Give a summary of market research

Next comes market research, the part of the plan where you do your due diligence to gather information and understand your target customers and competitors. First, you want to understand your target customers’ needs and any barriers they might have to buying your product.

You want to look for information about their demographics and how they might respond to the product you’re offering. This information will help you when designing your product and marketing it in a way that resonates with customers.

Then, you can look at the economy around your product, such as average pricing and sales revenue. This also includes research about your competitors, the market share that they hold and the barriers to entering your market. This section may include data from data research companies, surveys, focus groups and interviews.

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration , the questions you’re trying to answer include:

• Market size, or how many people may want to buy your product
• What people are willing to pay for your product
• Similar products already available
• Who your competitors are
• How your industry is doing
• Typical revenue gained by small businesses in your industry

Summarize a marketing strategy

Once you’ve clearly defined your product and who you’re selling to, you can come up with a strategy for how you’ll reach and sell to customers. In this section, you’ll include the different marketing channels you’ll use to promote your products and services.

These may include direct mailers, social media, traditional or online advertising or media events. The exact channels you use will depend on where you can easily find your target customers.

You can also describe the key messaging that you plan to use during marketing, which will pinpoint the value that it offers to customers. The marketing plan should also include the cost of marketing to different channels and your marketing budget. You can then outline the marketing goals and measurements you’ll use to see if you’re meeting those goals.

Create a logistics and operations plan

The logistics and operations section of your business plan is a detailed description of how your business will bring products and services to market. It explains how the business will run on a day-to-day basis. It should highlight your company’s management structure, give an overview of processes and describe the workflow from end to end. It can also include data on how many products you can make or how long it will take to make products or offer services.

Create a financial plan

Now that you’ve laid out the research, goals and planning, you can use that information to forecast revenue and build a financial plan. Use any past revenue or sales history as a starting point. Then, refer to your company’s recent growth and goals to calculate future financial growth.

If you’re a startup , you can use market research to estimate revenue for a startup in your industry. You can either forecast revenue manually or find software that projects revenue for you.

In your financial plan, you also want to create and track your business budget . You’ll track your estimated and actual revenue, updating regularly to keep the revenue forecast accurate and realistic. Next, you’ll list all expenses and their amounts, including one-time, variable, fixed or seasonal expenses. Here are some examples of different business expenses:

• One-time or capital expenses: Equipment, real estate, furniture, commercial vehicles, business licenses
• Variable expenses: Inventory, utilities, fuel, office supplies, shipping services, card processing fees
• Fixed expenses: Employee salaries and benefits, software, web hosting, office or equipment leases, business loan repayments

Business plan resources

Writing your business plan will take more than putting pen to paper. Try these resources to help you gather data, set up your finances and more:

• Business plan templates. Creating a business plan for the first time? Learn by looking up examples of other business plans or templates like these from Smartsheet .
• Software for accounting and financial planning. Many small businesses use Quickbooks, Xero or Netsuite to track revenue and expenses. These may also forecast revenue based on sales history.
• Business loan resources. To cover your funding needs, think through the types of business loans that would best serve your business. Once you’ve landed on a loan, compare features and interest rates to help you make a decision.
• Survey tools. For in-depth market research, you can build a survey and send to your target customers through a data research company like GWI.

Small business mentoring

Experienced mentors can guide you to making effective business decisions and unlock new potential for growth. Where to find small business mentors:

• SBA. You can find resources and free or low-cost mentors through the SBA’s local assistance tool .
• Small Business Development Centers. SBDCs provide specialized training programs in your local area covering specialized topics like marketing, data research and business management.
• Community Development Financial Institutions. CDFIs   are financial organizations like banks and credit unions that are built to develop the community. Alongside banking and lending services, CDFIs offer training programs and resources.
• SCORE. SCORE is an organization that partners with the SBA to bring resources to small business owners. Mentorship is at the core of what the organization does, and it can match you with a local mentor through its online locator tool.
• Local Chamber of Commerce. These local organizations are known for supporting business networking. They may help you find a mentorship program, or you may build a relationship with another successful entrepreneur through networking events.
• Nonprofit organizations. Some nonprofit organizations are dedicated to supporting small business owners with funding, trainings and mentorship programs. These are typically local programs. For example, NYPACE is a nonprofit that offers free consulting to underserved entrepreneurs in New York.

Bottom line

Your business plan should outline key information about your company, products and the strategy for getting those products in the hands of your customers. Every business plan looks different, but there is essential information to include in every plan, such as who your target customer is and your expected revenue. The business plan serves to help you get business funding and outline exact goals and steps to growing your company.

Frequently asked questions

Do i need a business plan to apply for a business loan, how do i write a simple business plan, what basic items should be included in a business plan, related articles.

How to manage a business loan: 6 tips

How to create a business budget

How to get a business loan in 6 steps

What is a business debt schedule?

How to write a business plan for a loan

Your business plan is a living document – it's something you'll revisit to check that you're reaching your goals and making the most of your venture. You may also need one if you're looking for funders to support and invest in your idea. Here's how it works.

What to include in the business plan

Applying for funding.

Your business plan is essentially an outline of your business and the market. It explains how you intend to make a profit and why your venture is destined for success. It includes key objectives, sales and marketing strategies, financial forecasts and more.

Writing your business plan should allow you to:

Clarify your idea

Identify potential problems

Establish your goals

Measure progress

Map out sales, marketing and operations

Identify issues and how to overcome them

Set out your expected financial return 

Convince others to back your business

Figure out what funding you need

When using Funding Options to find finance, lenders typically require your accounts, bank statements and management accounts, if available. You won't usually have to provide your business plan (although you might be asked if you're a new business). 

The Prince's Trust website can download a free  business plan template  and other related resources. Although templates are undoubtedly helpful, don't forget to tailor your business plan to the target audience. Check in with the recipient to see if there are any details they want your business plan to address.  

Keep it concise

Begin with an executive summary

There's no need to include every single detail – you can elaborate elsewhere

Proofread the document before sending it out

If appropriate, use charts for clarity

1. Executive summary

Like many other business documents, business plans begin with an executive summary. (This might be easier to write after you've written everything else.) The executive summary should hook the reader. 

It should provide an overview of your business plan and include details of what makes you different and how much money you intend to make/spend. 

2. Your idea/business

Next, it's time to elaborate on your idea. 

Identify the problem you're trying to solve or the opportunity you're tapping into. Why will people want to buy your product or service? Talk about your industry experience and business structure, i.e. who owns it and its legal structure.

3. Market information

In this section, include details of the market research you've conducted; ideally, this will comprise quantitative and qualitative research. 

Outline whom you're selling to (your customer personas) and how you intend to get your idea noticed. Include an analysis of market trends, details of competitors and how you think your business stands out from the crowd. 

4. SWOT analysis

Your SWOT – strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats – will enable you to go into more detail about how to make the most of your options. Ideally, your SWOT analysis should take up no more than a single page, and you can format it as a grid with one square dedicated to each section. 

5. Strategy 

This is where you go more in-depth about how you'll run the business. Dedicate sections to marketing and sales (e.g. your pricing strategy and promotional approaches), operations (e.g. your business premises) and your team (e.g. how you'll structure it). 

6. Financials

Your financials are essential to your business plan, particularly if you're looking for investment. You need to make sure they're accurate and realistic. You may want to consider getting expert, qualified advice regarding your forecasts. 

Your information will also depend on how long you've been trading. This could be an excellent place to include visual representations like graphs and charts. 

Include the following:

Sales forecasts

Profit and loss forecast

Cash flow statement

Balance sheet

7. Appendices

Because your business plan should be concise, you could include an appendix at the end with additional information about each section, details that the reader should know about but that you don't want to have in the body of the business plan. 

If you're looking for additional finance to get your venture off the ground, or if you need to fund your established business' growth plans, Funding Options can help you find out what you could be eligible for. Just tell us how much you need, how quickly and what it's for and our  Funding Cloud  technology will compare 120+ lenders. 

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Stuart is Chief Commercial Officer at Funding Options where he plays a key role in driving the growth of the business and its relationships with more than 120 partners. A finance industry veteran, he has a strong background in alternative finance, corporate and commercial banking, as well as global transaction banking.

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SBA Business Plan Template: Full Guide [2023]

• January 12, 2023
• Small Businesses

In 2020, SBA’s flagship 7(a) loan program approved more than 42,000 loans totalling $22 billion . Yet, SBA loans are notoriously difficult to obtain for small businesses: less than 15% of SBA loan applications were granted by big banks. If you’re applying for a SBA loan , you will need a solid business plan template for your loan application.

In this article we go through, step-by-step, all the different sections you need in your business plan to build a complete, clear and solid business plan lenders will approve. Read on!

Why do you need a business plan for your SBA loan application?

Other than your basic eligibility requirements, the primary element that lenders would review is your business plan. Having a good business plan determines if your business is a lucrative opportunity for SBA lenders.

Also, a solid business plan makes it easier to get your loans approved because banks would be confident that your business would be successful and you would be able to repay your loan.

However, business plans tend to differ depending on the nature and status of your business. If you’re running an independent business or launching a startup for example, your business plan will be reviewed more thoroughly.

1. Executive summary

The executive summary is the most important page of your SBA business plan template . We can’t make this clearer. This is the first section that the lenders will have a look at.

Before we go into specifics, keep in mind the executive summary actually is a summary. Keep it brief: your executive summary should never be more than 2 pages maximum .

Your executive summary should consists of 5 parts:

• The “mission statement “: what problem(s) is your business solving?
• Product and service : what is it that you sell? to whom? where?
• People : who are the founders / management? What about their experience? How many people / teams do you employ?
• Key financials and projections : what are your key metrics and financials today (revenues, customers, etc.)? What do you expect these to be in 3/5 years from now?
• Funding ask : what (how much) are you asking as part of this loan? Where will you spend it? For what?

2. Company description

The company description is where we go into more details about your business, and which problem(s) it actually solves.

You should explain here clearly:

What is the problem at stake?

You should list here the 2/3 friction points you aim to tackle.

Remember: even if your business isn’t necessarily innovative, your business is potentially solving a problem, as obvious as it may be, for many people out there. The more obvious the problem is, the more people it affects, the better

What is your solution?

Your business is commercialising a product and/or a service which solves the problem mentioned above. Here, you should explain 2 things: how your product / service works, and what benefits it brings to your customers.

Ideally, you should compare the pain points explained earlier (the problem) to the benefits your solution brings to your customers. That way, it is crystal clear to lenders and investors your solution really adds value to potential customers .

When explaining your business’ solution, you should explain clearly who is your customer persona . In other words, who are your customers (or who do you think they will be)? Which gender, age range, social background, interests, etc?

Where are you going?

The third section of the company description should explain what your strategy is in the short to long term. Are you expecting to launch new products? To expand regionally, internationally? Etc.

3. Market plan and analysis

The market plan and analysis section tell investors and lenders that you have extensively studied the market and reveal your competitive plan.

Your market plan and analysis section should include the following:

Industry overview and outlook

Here you need to clearly identify 2 very important metrics:

• Market size : how big is your market?
• Market growth: how fast does your market grow?

If you are operating in a niche market, chances are that you will face some challenges: the information might not be publicly available. In any case, you should be able to make a high-level estimation of your market. Read our article on market sizing and how to estimate TAM, SAM and SOM for your startup .

When looking for these metrics, you have multiple sources of information: public reports, specialised press, etc. Even public companies publish press releases and annual reports including some of their proprietary market estimates so be sure to look there too.

Competitive landscape

Here we must answer 2 key questions:

How fragmented is your market?

Are there 3 big players sharing 90% market share or thousands of small players? Here, refer to public market reports and your own understanding of the competitive landscape .

A few questions you could ask yourself, among others:

• Who are your competitors?
• Are they local, regional, national or global?
• Are there any product alternatives to your product?
• What about their IP / technological advantage?

Where do you position yourself vs. competition?

Is your solution a game changer other competitors don’t have (yet)? Do you have competitors with similar products/services?

Ideally, you would create a small table with, for each type of competitors and their main characteristics.

For instance, do they all a global presence? Do they cover all the products you offer? What is their relative price positioning (expensive vs. accessible)?

4. Organization and management

The amount of details you need to include here varies depending on the size of your company.

No matter how many leadership roles there are, an organizational chart effectively shows lenders and investors how the management system is structured.

If you plan on running your business alone indefinitely, you can write a short paragraph explaining your qualifications and previous professional experiences.

The first thing you should include in this section is a list of each management position. This list includes who will fill the role and the qualifications of these people. These people are the heart of your company, and their skills and experience are vital in ensuring your company’s success.

Next, provide any additional information about how the management team will contribute to the business’s success. Be sure to give as many details as possible since lenders need to be comfortable and confident that you have a good team running your business.

Lastly, include information about the Board of Directors (and/or any other advisors to your business).

5. Service or product line

The level of detail and the content of this section changes depending on the type of business you have. A number of questions you need to answer are shown below (but not limited to):

• Are you selling products or services (or both)?
• How many products do you sell?
• What are they?
• What is their pricing?
• How do they work?
• Are your products protected by any kind of intellectual property (copyright, patent, etc.)?
• If you do not manufacture all of your product(s): who are they suppliers? Where do they fit in the value chain ? etc.

Expert-built financial model templates for tech startups

6. Marketing and sales

Your SBA business plan template should include a marketing and sales plan where you describe your strategy for acquiring potential clients.

Here, you should give details about your marketing plan. A few questions you should answer are:

• How you plan to build and support your sales strategy ?
• What channel(s) are you using (online vs. offline)?
• How it makes sense for your target audience (the customer persona mentioned above)?

What about your metrics?

Sales and marketing goals and KPIs are also provided in this section. Don’t forget to include a detailed report about budgets for both sales and marketing.

Include metrics such as conversion rate, customer acquisition cost (CAC) , the efficiency of your sales team, etc.

It’s ok if you don’t know them already (if you are about to launch you new venture for example), yet you should have at least targets for them. How many website visitors do you expect to generate next year? What is your target conversion rate? Etc.

This particular report would be of great interest to lenders since they will glimpse how you handle your budget. Indeed, if you expect to spend in average $100 Customer Acquisition Cost, lenders will tie the number into your financial projections later on (more on that below).

Proving lenders you are able to link your financial projections with your actual business metrics (customers, sales volume, etc.) is a big plus . Indeed, that way you will show lenders you understand very clearly your business and how it ties into your financials (more on that in our article on why you should build a solid financial projections ).

7. Funding request

The funding request is the section of your SBA business plan template where you communicate to your investors how much you need.

This report also includes how you plan on repaying your loan. It’s also essential to explain how you plan to spend the funding you’ll receive for your business.

Will you spend the loan in working capital , in equipment, in inventory, salaries or marketing costs? The more specific you are, the better.

If you haven’t done so, we really recommend you read our article on how to determine how much you should raise for you business . While raising too little creates obvious problems, raising too much isn’t necessarily better.

On top of the amount, a good practice is to include a pie chart of where you will spend that money over a given period (your runway). Will you spend the bulk of it in product development to build your MVP? Or will you use a large portion in sales & marketing to commercialise your product and find product-market fit?

Our financial model templates include a cash burn dashboard where you can easily assess how much you should raise, and where you will spend your money. We also included charts ready to be included in your pitch deck. See how to use our cash burn dashboard here .

The funding request usually includes an overview of the business. You also have to outline how much funding you need for the next five years.  The standard timeframe for repaying your loan is usually ten years, so lenders expect to see some success in your business by that time. Mention a  detailed explanation of how the funds will be used and strategic financial plans for the future here.  Include financial information for current operations if applicable.

8. Financial projections

The financial projections section of your SBA business plan is one of the most important one.

Why? Lenders will have a thorough review of your expected financials over the next 3 to 5 years and judge whether your financial projections:

Are realistic (and use verifiable assumptions)

We are all by nature optimistic, especially when we are running businesses. It’s good to be optimistic, yet it is another one to be unrealistic.

Also, when presenting your financial projections, make sure to make it clear what are your assumptions. The more sources you can find to back up your forecasts, the better.

If you need help building realistic projections for your business, we have lots of free content. Make sure to check out our guides below:

• The 5 Mistakes To Avoid For Your Startup Financial Plan
• How To Build Realistic Revenue Projections For Your Startup?

Allow you to repay the SBA loan in the future

It’s great if you have built rock-solid and realistic financial projections for your business plan. Yet, if your plan doesn’t allow you to meet your debt obligations (the SBA loan and any other debt your business might have), lenders will not grant you any loan.

When assessing whether your financial plan allows you to repay the debt, you should check if the positive cash flows your business generates are enough to cover your debt repayment (and interests).

What financials should you include?

In short, you should present 3 different set of financials:

• Profit-and-loss
• Balance sheet
• Cash flow statement

If you don’t know them already, these are the financial statements every business need to prepare at least annually (with the help of an accountant). For more information on what they are and how to prepare them, read our articles below:

• 4 Key Financial Statements For Your Startup Business Plan
• SBA Loan Application: 6 Steps To Build Solid Financial Projections

9. Appendix

This section is the best place to add supporting documents like charts, graphs, and data.

For example, a complete list of documents like licenses, contracts, maps, etc. makes you more attractive to lenders as it gives them more content to review. If you do so, make sure to reference the documents in appendix and link them to pages in earlier sections. Avoid using the appendix as a dump section: it should be well organised and structured (else no one will bother looking at it).

Privacy Overview

How to Write an SBA Business Plan + Template

Noah Parsons

10 min. read

Updated November 21, 2023

Applying for a Small Business Administration loan typically requires a business plan.

Unfortunately, there’s no SBA loan business plan format that guarantees approval. The SBA even states you should “pick a business plan format that works for you.” 

While I agree with this sentiment, I’ve found that entrepreneurs who explain how funds will be used and how they will repay the loan tend to be more successful. 

Luckily, these details can be covered using our SBA-lender-approved business plan format . I’ll go over that structure in this article, and focus on the sections that the SBA prioritizes, so you can maximize your chances of getting funded .

You can even download a free SBA-lender-approved business plan template to fill out as you read. 

Let’s get started.

• Why you need a business plan for SBA loans

SBA loans require good documentation of your business and personal finances. You’ll need to pull together your past tax returns, bank statements, and various application forms depending on the type of SBA loan you apply for.

The bank issuing the loan will also want to know about the future of your business. 

They’ll want to see how the loan will be used and if future cash flow projections are realistic and indicate you can afford loan payments.

That’s where writing an SBA business plan comes in. 

Not only will your business plan describe your business to the lender, but it will include the financial projections the bank will use to determine if you qualify for the loan .

• What your business plan should include, according to the SBA

Business plans for SBA loans follow a fairly standard structure, but that doesn’t mean you need to follow it exactly. 

The SBA even recommends adjusting the plan outline to serve your needs. If a section does not apply to your business, it’s fine just to remove it.

Here’s the successful business plan structure I recommend for SBA loans:

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1. Executive summary

A great executive summary is a short, simple overview of your business. It should be easy for a loan officer to read and clearly understand what your business does. 

When applying for an SBA loan, highlight your: 

• Business opportunity
• Financial forecast
• How much money you want to borrow and how it will be used

Remember, an executive summary should be short and to the point. The rest of your business plan will provide additional details.

[Dig deeper: How to write an executive summary ]

2. Company description

Some people call this section “Products and Services.” Either option is fine. The important thing is that you use this section to explain what your business opportunity is. 

You need to cover: 

• The problem you solve
• Who you’re solving it for
• What your solution is and why it’s better

Be specific and tell the story of your business and your customers. Focus on your strengths and what sets you apart from competitors. 

If your company is developing a product, include information on:

• What the product life cycle looks like
• Intellectual property filings
• Current research and development

If these topics don’t apply to your product, that’s fine. Just be sure that the description of what you sell is clear.

3. Market analysis

The market analysis chapter explains who your customers are. It provides an overview of your target market, competition, and industry.

Your target market is essentially a description of your ideal customers. Be sure to include specific demographic information (like age, gender, location, income) and psychographic information (hobbies, purchasing behaviors). 

This data should reinforce that your target market needs your solution .

It’s helpful to also include information on the size of your target market . Lenders will want to see evidence of enough potential customers to drive growth. 

While your target market information describes your customers, an industry overview discusses the type of business you’re in and its potential for growth. 

For example: If you’re starting a fast-casual restaurant, your industry overview might discuss the increased interest in fast-casual dining and how more people are eating in these types of restaurants every year. 

Finally, you’ll need to include a competitive analysis . This is a list of current competitors and alternatives, with explanations of why your business is a better option. 

Your goal is to show how your business is unique, what opportunities and threats there are, and how you plan to address the competition.

4. Organization and management

Also known as your company overview, this section is where you describe your legal structure, history, and team .

For your SBA loan application, you should focus on describing who is managing the business as clearly as possible. 

You may want to include an organizational chart. You should provide detailed resumes for everyone in leadership positions. Each team member’s experience, skills and professional qualifications can mitigate risk in the eyes of a lender .

To show you’re thinking ahead, it’s also helpful to include key positions you plan to fill as you grow. 

5. Sales and marketing plan

Your goal in this section is to summarize how you will attract, retain, and sell to your customers.

The marketing strategies and sales methods you describe should always have the customer top of mind, and demonstrate that you know how to connect with them. 

To help a loan officer visualize this, you can provide examples of marketing messaging, visuals, and promotions. If you have any research or results to show that your strategy has merit, include those as well. 

6. Financial projections

SBA lenders typically require 5 years of financial projections — including profit and loss statements , balance sheets , and cash flow statements . 

Be sure to include the SBA loan in your projections in the following areas: 

• A liability on your balance sheet.
• Payments on your cash flow.
• Interest expenses on your profit and loss statement. 

I’ll dive into specific details of what you should focus on in the “how to improve your chances” section.

Your first year of financial projections should include monthly details. After that, annual summaries are usually sufficient for most SBA lenders. Occasionally, a lender might require 24 months of monthly projections, so check with your bank before submitting your business plan. 

If your business is up and running, you must also provide historical financial reports for the past 12-24 months of operations—including income statements and a current balance sheet.

Typically, you will also need to provide reports on your personal finances , including any assets you have, such as a home or car. 

Finally, include a section explaining your use of funds—what exactly you plan to use the loan for.

7. Appendix

The appendix is your chance to provide additional documents that support sections of your business plan. 

When applying for a loan, these may include:

• Employee resumes
• Licenses and permits
• Patents and other legal documents
• Historical financial statements
• Credit histories

Don’t worry about stuffing your appendix full of additional documentation. Only include information if you believe it will strengthen your approval chances, or if your lender specifically asks for it.

• How to improve your chances of being approved for an SBA loan

Your SBA business plan needs to focus on the loan you are applying for and how that will impact your business financially. 

Make sure to include the following information in your financial plan to increase your chances of success with your lender:

Funding request 

In your executive summary, document how much money you are asking for. It’s best to put your number where it can be clearly read, instead of trying to bury it deep within your business plan.

Remember, there are limitations to how much you can borrow through SBA-backed loans.  Most have a maximum loan amount of $5 million, while SBA Express loans have a maximum loan amount of $350,000. 

Use of funds

You should also describe how you plan to use the loan and which aspects of the business you want to invest in. 

Some SBA loans are designed specifically for expanding export businesses or funding real estate transactions. So, make sure your use of funds description is appropriate for the loan you are applying for.

Cash flow forecast

Be sure to include the loan in your cash flow statements and projections . You want to demonstrate that you’ve planned how you will use and repay the loan.

You need to show:

• When you anticipate receiving the loan.
• How the loan will impact your finances. 
• Loan payments for the life of the loan. 

Having this prepared won’t just increase the chances of your application being approved—It  will make it much easier to manage the loan after you receive funding . 

Balance sheet 

You’ll also want to put the loan on your projected balance sheet , and show how the loan will get paid down over time. 

The money you owe will show up on your balance sheet as a liability, while the cash you receive from the loan will be an asset. Over time, your forecasted balance sheet will show that the loan is getting paid back. 

Your lender will want to see that you have forecasted this repayment properly.

Profit & Loss forecast

Your P&L should include the interest expenses for the loan, and show how the interest will impact your profitability in the coming months and years.

• How long does an SBA business plan need to be?

The SBA doesn’t have an official recommended or required business plan length . As a general rule of thumb, you should make your business plan as short and concise as possible. 

Your business plan is going to be reviewed by a bank loan officer, and they will be less than excited about the prospect of reading a 50-page business plan.

If possible, keep the written portion of your business plan between 10-15 pages. Your financial forecasts will take up several additional pages. 

If you’re struggling to keep it short, try a one-page plan

A great way to start your business plan is with a simple, one-page business plan that provides a brief and compelling overview of your business. 

A good one-page plan is easy to read and visually appealing. Once you have your one-page plan, you can expand on the ideas to develop your complete written business plan, and use the one-page plan as your executive summary. 

Loan officers will appreciate a concise overview of your business that provides the summary they need before they start looking at your complete business plan and financial plan .

• Resources and tools for writing an SBA business plan

Remember, you can download a free SBA-lender-approved business plan template . It includes detailed instructions to help you write each section, expert guidance and tips, and is formatted as lenders and investors expect.

If you’re looking for a more powerful plan writing tool, one that can also help you create financial forecasts for the use of your loan, I recommend you check out LivePlan . 

With LivePlan, you get:

• AI-powered recommendations: Generate and rewrite sections of your plan to be more professional and persuasive.
• Step-by-step instructions: In-app examples, tutorials, and tips to help you write an impressive business plan.
• Automatic financials: Skip the spreadsheets and complex formulas, and quickly create accurate financial forecasts with everything a lender needs.
• A built-in pitch presentation: Print or share your full business plan, one-page pitch, and financial reports—all with a professional and polished look.

Whether you use the template, LivePlan, or try writing a business plan yourself, following the structure and tips from this article will improve your chances of getting an SBA-backed loan. 

And for additional SBA-focused resources, check out our guide on how to get an SBA loan .   

Create a business plan that maximizes your chances of securing funding

Noah is the COO at Palo Alto Software, makers of the online business plan app LivePlan. He started his career at Yahoo! and then helped start the user review site Epinions.com. From there he started a software distribution business in the UK before coming to Palo Alto Software to run the marketing and product teams.

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Loan Business Plan: How to Write Guide .

Sep 19, 2023 | Business Consulting , Business Plan , Financial Plan , Funding Needs , Loan Business Plan , Strategy

How to Write a Business Plan for a Loan Successfully

A loan business plan can help you obtain financing by highlighting the features lenders and funding partners use to assess borrowers.

Are you contemplating creating a loan business plan to secure your bank funding?

You are not lonely. Most entrepreneurs perceive a business plan as a gigantic task – mainly if they have never written one.

To improve your chances of being approved for a small-business loan, it’s essential to have a well-written and detailed business plan that showcases your abilities, justifies your need for capital, and proves your ability to repay the debt. Most lenders require a business plan as part of the loan application, so you must include this document.

To help you get started, here is everything you need to know about writing a business plan for a loan.

A loan business plan can help you obtain financing by highlighting the characteristics lenders use to assess borrowers.

Why do I need a loan business plan?

Lenders typically require a business plan when applying for a loan, although not all do. However, it is highly recommended to have a plan prepared even if your lender doesn’t request one. A business plan can help you clarify your goals, determine how to achieve them, and identify the funds you need to borrow.

What are the components of a loan business plan?

When applying for a loan, a successful business plan should outline your financial goals and strategies to implement to achieve them. While the components of a business plan may differ depending on the company, several sections are typically included in most scenarios.

These sections should give lenders a comprehensive understanding of your business and demonstrate why you are a good candidate for loan approval.

• Executive summary
• Company Overview
• Business Model (Products, Services, Pricing, Selling Channel, Location)
• Market Analysis
• Strategy (Marketing, Sales, Operations, Assets, Hiring Needs)
• Management & Team
• Funding Needs
• Financial Plan (with proforma statements; income, balance sheet, cash flow)
• Appendices (for images, personal bios, product information, etc.)

The list and headings can change based on your business model. An agriculture or manufacturing business may include more information on process, health, and safety than a professional services firm offering software solutions.

The general guidelines are to keep the document concise and to be mindful of including generic information irrelevant to your business.

Points to consider for your loan business plan

Here are a few questions we get a lot from our business plan clients:

• What does the bank want to see?
• How do I start with the business plan template?
• Is there a quick way to estimate the financials?
• How do I show my startup’s projected financials?
• How much salary should I assign?

If you need to create a loan business plan for bank funding or another financing, get your document precise.

So, here is what we endorse: streamline the business plan development by setting short goals and activities to help you structure the activity into less daunting tasks. That way, you can focus on one section at a time to ensure accuracy.

To make this easy and if you want to start writing your business plan, download your business plan template from these reliable business plan sources: StartupLoans UK Score.org , US-SBA, or Gov.UK .

All these models come with helpful guides and examples to help you create a great business plan for your company.

Step 1 – Describe Your Business Idea

This is a fundamental part of your business plan. It should give your bank and the loan officers a clear understanding of:

• The business opportunity and the problem you solve
• Describe your product or service and how it fits into your target market – currently and in the future
• How does your business differentiate from the competition?
• Your target customer and their challenges
• Your business growth plans

Step 2 – Describe Your Execution Strategy

Describe how you implement your strategy. Here, you will understand how you will market and see the opportunity you charted in the earlier segment. This part helps you validate to the banks that you have a robust plan to succeed.

• Brand Positioning: include aspects of your brand, values, and whether you are in the day or luxury sector
• Marketing Plan: How will you engage your target audience?
• Pricing Strategy: will you offer a sliding price structure or per product?
• Sales Plan: what are your plans for selling, i.e., direct to customers, via wholesale
• Operations Plan: will you have a physical location? Do you plan to hire staff?
• Critical Upcoming Milestones: what are your short-term goals?
• Key Success Metrics: articulate what is your company’s success metrics, i.e., sales, customer longevity

Step 3 – Detail Your Financial Plan

It is often said to be the most crucial aspect of the business plan – and the scary bit for many. It is a vital part of any business plan for a bank loan or other financing needs. Your potential lender will look incredibly closely at this section to determine how viable your business is to succeed in the long term.

However, the financial section does not have to be overwhelming, particularly if you break down the work into manageable elements. Here are six items that your plan must have:

• Sales Forecast: Your sales plans for now and in the future should demonstrate how you will generate a healthy income
• Direct Costs: For companies selling products, how much does it cost to make or purchase your goods? What are the costs you absorb for service companies to deliver your offerings?
• Personnel and Hiring Plans: Does your bank loan support your hiring plans?
• Operating Expenses (i.e., rent, marketing spend, professional fees): Perhaps you require financing to secure a new location or expand your technology automation.
• Financing Needs and Payback Plans: What are the anticipated loan amounts, payment terms, and interest rates you seek?
• Projected Financial Statements, i.e., Profit and Loss, Cash Flow Forecast, Balance Sheet

Include Your Executive Summary

Once you finish your business plan sections, go back to the beginning and articulate your executive overview. The executive summary helps your reader to quickly grasp your business, product and services, market, location, and unique selling proposition.

For business plan document samples, look at BPlans and see examples across multiple industries of what a complete business plan should look like when finished.

A business plan for a loan details your objectives, products/services, finances, and funding requirements. The aim is to convince lenders to approve your loan.

Do you need help writing your loan business plan?

If you are contemplating more than a business plan template, we have other resources to assist you:

Check out Bplans’ step-by-step guide to writing a business plan or Startup Donut essential guide with comprehensive instructions. Both lead you through the business planning process.

There are loads of business plan software choices in the marketplace. We use LivePlan for business planning and financial management. It comprises full financial projections (no spreadsheets necessary), unpretentious pitch presentations, and more to help you plan and manage your business.

If you would still benefit from additional guidance, you can hire a business plan expert to support you with your business plan development.

To learn more about the Noirwolf Consulting team and how we can help you scale your business operations, email us, and let’s talk .

Get in Touch

Are you looking to grow your business but unsure where to start? Our small business consulting and leadership coaching services are here to help! We’ll work with you to scale your operations and achieve your goals. Plus, we offer a free 30-minute consultation to ensure we fit your needs correctly. Let’s get started!

Contact Noirwolf Consulting today using the website contact form or by emailing [email protected] or call us at +44 113 328 0868.

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Loan Officer Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped thousands of loan officers develop business plans to grow their businesses. On this page, we will first give you some background information with regards to the importance of business planning. We will then go through a loan officer business plan template step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What Is a Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your loan business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategy for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan

If you’re looking to grow your existing loan business, you need a business plan. A business plan will plan out the growth of your loan business in order to improve your chances of success. Your loan business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

If you want to grow your loan officer business, you need a business plan. Below are links to each section of your loan officer business plan template:

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

In it you must provide an overview of each of the sections of your plan. For example, give a brief overview of the loan industry. Discuss the type of loan business you are operating. Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. Provide a snapshot of your marketing plan. Identify the key members of your team. And offer an overview of your financial plan.  

Company Analysis

In your company analysis, you will detail the type of loan business you are operating.

For example, you might operate one of the following types of loan businesses:

• Commercial Loan Officer : this type of loan business focuses on arranging business loans.
• Consumer Loan Officer: this type of business focuses on providing loans for things such as vehicles.
• Mortgage Loan Officer: this type of loan obtains loans for consumer to purchase real estate.

In addition to explaining the type of loan business you will operate, the Company Analysis section of your business plan needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to question such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of customers served, number of positive reviews, dollar value of loans arranged, etc.
• Your legal structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry analysis, you need to provide an overview of the loan industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the loan industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your strategy, particularly if your research identifies market trends.

The third reason for market research is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your loan business plan:

• How big is the loan industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential market for your loan business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your loan officer business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: parents, students, professionals, businesses, couples, families, prospective home buyers, prospective car buyers, contractors, etc.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of loan business you operate. Clearly, someone interested in purchasing a new car would respond to different marketing promotions than a business seeking equipment financing, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, include a discussion of the ages, genders, locations and income levels of the customers you seek to serve. Because most loan businesses primarily serve customers living in their same city or town, such demographic information is easy to find on government websites.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can understand and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other loan businesses.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t direct competitors. This includes commercial banks, online loan brokers, etc. You need to mention such competition as well.

With regards to direct competition, you want to describe the other loan businesses with which you compete. Most likely, your direct competitors will be loan officers located very close to your location.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their businesses and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as:

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What types of loans do they specialize in?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide higher value loans?
• Will you offer lower interest rates on loans?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer a wider variety of loan options?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a loan officer business plan, your marketing plan should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of loan company that you documented in your Company Analysis. Then, detail the specific products you will be offering. For example, in addition to loans, will you provide insurance, financial advisory, or real estate services?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your marketing plan, you are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the location of your loan company. Document your location and mention how the location will impact your success. For example, is your loan business located near a real estate brokerage, or car dealership, etc. Discuss how your location might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your loan officer marketing plan is the promotions section. This is perhaps the most important section of your plan. Here you will document how you will drive customers to your website and/or location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertising in local papers and magazines
• Reaching out to local websites
• Social media marketing
• Local radio advertising

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your loan business, including processing loan applications, arranging signings, marketing your business, paperwork, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to arrange your 100 th loan, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your loan business to a new city.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your loan business’ ability to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing loan businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act like mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience as a loan officer or success being a local bank or credit union manager.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statements.

Income Statement : an income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenues and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you work on commission, or on a fee for services model? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets : Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your loan business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a bank writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement : Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and make sure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

In developing your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a loan business:

• Location build-out including design fees, construction, etc.
• Cost of equipment and supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Taxes and permits
• Legal expenses

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your office location lease or outline your strategic partnerships with local realtors and lenders.  

Putting together a business plan for your loan officer business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will really understand the loan industry, your competition, and your customers. You will have developed a marketing plan and will really understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful loan business.  

Loan Officer Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my loan officer business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily complete your Loan Officer Business Plan.

What is the Goal of a Business Plan's Executive Summary?

The goal of your Executive Summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the type of loan officer business you are operating and the status; for example, are you a startup, do you have a loan officer business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of loan officer businesses?

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Loan Officer business plan?

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.   Click here to see how Growthink’s professional business plan consulting services can create your business plan for you.

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How to Write a Business Plan, Step by Step

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What is a business plan?

1. write an executive summary, 2. describe your company, 3. state your business goals, 4. describe your products and services, 5. do your market research, 6. outline your marketing and sales plan, 7. perform a business financial analysis, 8. make financial projections, 9. summarize how your company operates, 10. add any additional information to an appendix, business plan tips and resources.

A business plan outlines your business’s financial goals and explains how you’ll achieve them over the next three to five years. Here’s a step-by-step guide to writing a business plan that will offer a strong, detailed road map for your business.

ZenBusiness

A business plan is a document that explains what your business does, how it makes money and who its customers are. Internally, writing a business plan should help you clarify your vision and organize your operations. Externally, you can share it with potential lenders and investors to show them you’re on the right track.

Business plans are living documents; it’s OK for them to change over time. Startups may update their business plans often as they figure out who their customers are and what products and services fit them best. Mature companies might only revisit their business plan every few years. Regardless of your business’s age, brush up this document before you apply for a business loan .

» Need help writing? Learn about the best business plan software .

This is your elevator pitch. It should include a mission statement, a brief description of the products or services your business offers and a broad summary of your financial growth plans.

Though the executive summary is the first thing your investors will read, it can be easier to write it last. That way, you can highlight information you’ve identified while writing other sections that go into more detail.

» MORE: How to write an executive summary in 6 steps

Next up is your company description. This should contain basic information like:

Your business’s registered name.

Address of your business location .

Names of key people in the business. Make sure to highlight unique skills or technical expertise among members of your team.

Your company description should also define your business structure — such as a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation — and include the percent ownership that each owner has and the extent of each owner’s involvement in the company.

Lastly, write a little about the history of your company and the nature of your business now. This prepares the reader to learn about your goals in the next section.

» MORE: How to write a company overview for a business plan

The third part of a business plan is an objective statement. This section spells out what you’d like to accomplish, both in the near term and over the coming years.

If you’re looking for a business loan or outside investment, you can use this section to explain how the financing will help your business grow and how you plan to achieve those growth targets. The key is to provide a clear explanation of the opportunity your business presents to the lender.

For example, if your business is launching a second product line, you might explain how the loan will help your company launch that new product and how much you think sales will increase over the next three years as a result.

» MORE: How to write a successful business plan for a loan

In this section, go into detail about the products or services you offer or plan to offer.

You should include the following:

An explanation of how your product or service works.

The pricing model for your product or service.

The typical customers you serve.

Your supply chain and order fulfillment strategy.

You can also discuss current or pending trademarks and patents associated with your product or service.

Lenders and investors will want to know what sets your product apart from your competition. In your market analysis section , explain who your competitors are. Discuss what they do well, and point out what you can do better. If you’re serving a different or underserved market, explain that.

Here, you can address how you plan to persuade customers to buy your products or services, or how you will develop customer loyalty that will lead to repeat business.

Include details about your sales and distribution strategies, including the costs involved in selling each product .

» MORE: R e a d our complete guide to small business marketing

If you’re a startup, you may not have much information on your business financials yet. However, if you’re an existing business, you’ll want to include income or profit-and-loss statements, a balance sheet that lists your assets and debts, and a cash flow statement that shows how cash comes into and goes out of the company.

Accounting software may be able to generate these reports for you. It may also help you calculate metrics such as:

Net profit margin: the percentage of revenue you keep as net income.

Current ratio: the measurement of your liquidity and ability to repay debts.

Accounts receivable turnover ratio: a measurement of how frequently you collect on receivables per year.

This is a great place to include charts and graphs that make it easy for those reading your plan to understand the financial health of your business.

This is a critical part of your business plan if you’re seeking financing or investors. It outlines how your business will generate enough profit to repay the loan or how you will earn a decent return for investors.

Here, you’ll provide your business’s monthly or quarterly sales, expenses and profit estimates over at least a three-year period — with the future numbers assuming you’ve obtained a new loan.

Accuracy is key, so carefully analyze your past financial statements before giving projections. Your goals may be aggressive, but they should also be realistic.

NerdWallet’s picks for setting up your business finances:

The best business checking accounts .

The best business credit cards .

The best accounting software .

Before the end of your business plan, summarize how your business is structured and outline each team’s responsibilities. This will help your readers understand who performs each of the functions you’ve described above — making and selling your products or services — and how much each of those functions cost.

If any of your employees have exceptional skills, you may want to include their resumes to help explain the competitive advantage they give you.

Finally, attach any supporting information or additional materials that you couldn’t fit in elsewhere. That might include:

Licenses and permits.

Equipment leases.

Bank statements.

Details of your personal and business credit history, if you’re seeking financing.

If the appendix is long, you may want to consider adding a table of contents at the beginning of this section.

How much do you need?

with Fundera by NerdWallet

We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

Here are some tips to write a detailed, convincing business plan:

Avoid over-optimism: If you’re applying for a business bank loan or professional investment, someone will be reading your business plan closely. Providing unreasonable sales estimates can hurt your chances of approval.

Proofread: Spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors can jump off the page and turn off lenders and prospective investors. If writing and editing aren't your strong suit, you may want to hire a professional business plan writer, copy editor or proofreader.

Use free resources: SCORE is a nonprofit association that offers a large network of volunteer business mentors and experts who can help you write or edit your business plan. The U.S. Small Business Administration’s Small Business Development Centers , which provide free business consulting and help with business plan development, can also be a resource.

On a similar note...

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Business Loans

Top long-term business loans: Best options for March 2024

Kiah Treece

Ashley Harrison

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Published 11:00 a.m. UTC March 26, 2024

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Long-term business loans can help business owners secure capital for significant investments, such as expansion, equipment purchases or even refinancing existing debts. These loans generally offer repayment terms longer than two years, which can provide you with affordable monthly payments.

The best long-term business loans of 2024 not only come with these lengthy terms but also a variety of loan amounts, lenient credit score requirements and fast funding.

Best long-term business loans

• National Funding equipment financing : Best for fair credit.
• Kapitus business loan : Best for large loans.
• Rapid Finance business loan : Best for fast funding.

Best for fair credit

National funding equipment financing.

Loan amounts

Repayment terms, what you should know.

With an equipment financing loan from National Funding, you can borrow up to $150,000 and choose a repayment term from two to five years. If you’re approved, you can get your funds as soon as the next business day. Plus, if you opt to pay off your loan early, you can get a 6% discount on the remaining balance.

National Funding accepts credit scores as low as 600, which could make it ideal if you have fair credit (usually considered to be a score from 580 to 669). To qualify, your business must also have been in operation for at least six months, depending on your situation. Additionally, your business must generate at least $250,000 in annual revenue, and you’ll need to provide an equipment quote from a vendor with your application.

Note that National Funding charges an origination fee from 1% to 5%, which can impact your borrowing costs. It also doesn’t disclose its interest rates for equipment financing. To see what you might be eligible for, you’ll need to apply and discuss your options with one of the lender’s funding specialists.

Pros and cons

• Accepts fair credit scores.
• Discount available for early repayment.
• Fast funding.
• Doesn’t publish interest rates online.
• Charges an origination fee.
• Lower loan maximum compared to some lenders.

More details

• Loan amounts: Up to $150,000.
• Repayment terms: 2 to 5 years.
• Perks: Early repayment discount (6% of remaining balance).
• Fees: Origination fee (1% to 5%).
• Min. credit score: 600.
• Required time in operation: 6 months.
• Required annual revenue: $250,000.
• Time to fund: Within 1 to 3 business days after approval.

Best for large loans

Kapitus business loan.

Kapitus offers long-term business loans from $10,000 up to $5 million with terms as long as five years. This can make it a good choice if you’re looking to borrow a large amount.

To qualify, you’ll need a credit score of at least 625. Your business must also have been in operation for a minimum of two years, and it must generate at least $250,000 in annual revenue. If you’re approved, you could get your funds as soon as the next business day.

Keep in mind that Kapitus doesn’t disclose its interest rates online, so you’ll have to contact the lender to see what your borrowing costs could look like. Fees could also apply for late payments.

• Can borrow up to $5 million.
• Higher time-in-business and annual revenue requirements compared to some lenders.
• Fees for late payments can apply.
• Loan amounts: $10,000 to $5 million.
• Repayment terms: Up to 5 years.
• Perks: None.
• Fees: Late fee (amount not disclosed).
• Min. credit score: 625.
• Required time in operation: 2 years.
• Time to fund: As soon as the next business day after approval.

Best for fast funding

Rapid finance business loan.

Rapid Finance can be a good option if you’re facing time-sensitive opportunities or unexpected financial demands. You can borrow $5,001 up to $1 million and choose a term from three months to five years. If you’re approved, you could get your funds as soon as the next day — sometimes even as fast as a few minutes or hours after approval.

Prospective borrowers can apply online with a valid form of identification, a business bank account number and routing information as well as the last three months of business bank statements.

Note that Rapid Finance doesn’t disclose its minimum qualification requirements. However, it does identify itself as an alternative funder. This means you might have an easier time getting approved for a business loan from Rapid Finance compared to traditional financing options.

This lender also doesn’t publish its interest rates online. While it does specify that fees can apply, Rapid Finance doesn’t disclose what these fees might be and how much they could cost you. To see what your overall borrowing expenses might look like, you’ll need to contact Rapid Finance.

• Can borrow up to $1 million.
• Considers alternative lending criteria.
• Doesn’t disclose fees (if any).
• Doesn’t disclose minimum qualification requirements.
• Loan amounts: $5,001 to $1 million.
• Repayment terms: 3 months to 5 years.
• Fees: Does not disclose.
• Min. credit score: Does not disclose.
• Required time in operation: Does not disclose.
• Required annual revenue: Does not disclose.
• Time to fund: As soon as the next business day after approval (potentially within minutes or hours of approval).

Compare the best long-term business loans

Methodology

Our expert writers and editors have reviewed and researched multiple lenders to help you find the best long-term business loan. Out of all the lenders considered, the three that made our list excelled in areas across the following categories (with weightings): loan details (40%), loan cost (20%), eligibility and accessibility (15%), customer service (10%) and application process (15%).

Within each major category, we considered several characteristics, including maximum repayment terms, APR ranges, loan amounts, late fees and prepayment penalties. We also considered each lender’s minimum requirements for credit score, time in operation and annual revenue as well as funding time and customer experience.

Why some lenders didn’t make the cut

Of the business loan lenders that we reviewed, only a handful made the cut. This was mainly due to the majority of lenders having maximum terms of only two or fewer years. Some also didn’t receive high enough scores due to not publicly disclosing eligibility information, not disclosing funding speeds or having poor customer reviews.

What is a long-term business loan?

A long-term business loan is a type of term loan that provides a business with a lump sum of capital that can be repaid in installments over an extended period — typically three to 10 years, depending on the lender. This can be ideal for financing major investments, such as the purchase of real estate, the acquisition of another business or large capital projects. 

These loans often come with fixed interest rates, which means your rate and payment will stay the same throughout the life of the loan. Another advantage is that by opting for a longer term, you can keep your payments lower and more affordable. However, this also means you’ll pay more in interest over time.

Current business loan rates

Business loan interest rates vary by lender as well as by the type of financing and the borrower’s qualifications. For example, traditional bank loans typically have lower interest rates than alternative lenders like online platforms or peer-to-peer (P2P) lending. As of Feb. 7, 2024, the average rates with private business loan lenders range from 8.49% to 36% for a business term loan, 8% to 60% for a business line of credit and 7.5% to 24% for equipment financing, according to Lendio.

Keep in mind that several factors can affect the rates you’re offered on business loans — including your personal and business credit, how long your business has been in operation and the amount of annual revenue it generates. Generally, you’ll need good credit to qualify for the best interest rates. While some lenders offer business loans for bad credit , these can come with higher interest rates and more fees compared to good credit loans.

Getting approved for a long-term business loan

While qualifications can vary by lender, here are some common requirements that you’ll typically need to meet for a long-term business loan:

• Personal and business credit: Lenders will generally consider your personal credit score when making an approval decision — especially if you have a newer business that hasn’t yet generated significant revenue. A good personal credit score is usually considered to be 670 or higher. A lender might also review your business credit history.
• Time in operation: Your business will typically need to have been in operation for at least six months to two years. This shows stability and a track record of success.
• Annual revenue: Lenders also want to see that your business has stable and consistent revenue streams. In general, lenders prefer an annual revenue of $100,000 to $250,000. They may also look at your profit margins and overall financial health.
• Collateral: Many traditional lenders require collateral to secure a business loan, such as equipment, real estate or other valuable business assets. There are also some lenders that offer unsecured business loans . However, because unsecured loans are riskier for lenders, they can come with more stringent requirements and higher interest rates. Also note that business loans often require a personal guarantee, which is an agreement that you’ll repay the loan with your personal assets if your business defaults. 
• Business documentation: A lender might ask to see a solid business plan outlining your goals and your business’s financial statements. You’ll also need to specify how you plan to use the loan funds.
• Industry and market conditions: Lenders will generally consider your business’s size and industry as well as market conditions when reviewing your application. If your business operates in a high-risk industry or if the market is uncertain, you could have a harder time getting approved. Lenders also sometimes restrict the types of industries they’re willing to work with, so be sure to double-check before you apply.

Easier to qualify for newer businesses: Compare the top startup business loans

Best for poor credit

Credibly business loan, time to fund.

Choosing the best long-term business loan: How to compare

To choose the best long-term business loan for your needs, it’s crucial to carefully compare the available options. Here are some important points to keep in mind when weighing your loan choices:

• Interest rates: Your interest rate will play a major role in your overall borrowing costs. Also keep in mind that some business lenders charge factor rates instead of traditional interest — this is essentially a flat fee based on your original loan amount.
• Loan amounts: Business loans can range from as little as a few hundred dollars up to $5 million, depending on the lender. Be sure to borrow only what you need to keep your repayment costs manageable.
• Repayment terms: While most business loans have terms of two or fewer years, long-term business loans give you more time to repay your loan. Just keep in mind that the longer your term, the more you’ll pay in interest over time. In general, it’s best to choose the shortest term your business can afford to avoid excessive interest charges.
• Eligibility requirements: Remember that you’ll generally have to meet underwriting criteria for credit score, time in operation, annual revenue and more to get approved. However, exact requirements can vary by lender.
• Fees and penalties: Some lenders charge fees, such as origination fees and late fees. These can add to your overall costs.
• Collateral requirements: Consider whether a secured or unsecured loan will better suit your needs. If you opt for a secured loan , be prepared to offer business assets to act as collateral . Also remember that you’ll likely have to provide a personal guarantee.
• Funding speed: Some lenders offer faster processing times than others. If you need the funds right away, you’ll want to work with a lender that offers quick funding speeds.

How to apply for a long-term business loan

If you’re ready to apply for a long-term business loan , follow these steps:

1. Check your credit 

Lenders will review your personal credit history (and business credit, in some cases) when you apply for a loan — so it’s a good idea to see where you stand before you apply. You can use a site like AnnualCreditReport.com to review your personal credit reports . To check your credit score , you can use an online credit-monitoring service or see if it’s available through your bank or credit card issuer. 

Your business credit report is available through several third-party companies, including Dun & Bradstreet as well as the credit bureaus Experian and Equifax . However, accessing it might come with a fee, depending on the service you choose.

Tip: If you find any errors in your personal or business credit reports, report them to the appropriate credit bureau to potentially boost your credit score .

2. Evaluate your borrowing needs

Consider what type of expenses you need to cover to determine what type of business loan is right for you. For example, you might opt for a general term loan or equipment financing. Also estimate how much you need to borrow and what you can reasonably afford to repay.

Tip: Use our business loan calculator to see what will fit comfortably in your budget.

3. Compare lenders and pick a loan option 

Before you apply, take the time to compare your options with as many business loan lenders as possible. This way, you can find the right long-term loan for your needs. Consider important factors like interest rates, loan amounts, fees and eligibility requirements when weighing your choices. After you’ve done your research, pick the loan option that works best for you.

Tip: Some lenders allow you to get pre-qualified with only a soft credit check that won’t hurt your credit score. This will give you an idea of what rates and terms you might get approved for if you apply.

4. Prepare your documentation 

Gather all necessary documents, such as business and personal tax returns, financial statements, business licenses and a business plan.

5. Apply for financing

After you’ve gathered your documentation, you’ll need to submit a formal application. Depending on the lender, you might be able to complete the full application process online while other lenders require you to discuss your options with one of the company’s loan specialists.

6. Get your funds 

If you’re approved, the lender will have you sign a loan agreement before the funds are disbursed. You might get your funds as soon as the same or next business day, depending on the lender. 

Alternatives to a long-term business loan

While long-term business loans are a popular financing option for many businesses seeking stability and extended repayment periods, there are alternative financing solutions that could be more suitable depending on your business’s needs, financial health and growth stage. Some options to consider include:

• Business line of credit: If you prefer flexible access to a revolving credit line, a business line of credit could be a good choice. With this option, you can borrow as needed and will pay interest only on the amount you use. 
• Short-term business loan: A short-term business loan will generally have a repayment term of two or fewer years. This can be ideal for businesses that need quick funding for immediate needs.
• SBA loan: The Small Business Administration (SBA) backs these loans, which in turn reduces the risk for lenders. Because of this, SBA loans can come with more competitive rates and terms compared to traditional business financing.
• Business credit card: If you need to cover small, routine expenses, a business credit card can be a good choice. Some cards also provide rewards and perks to help you build business credit. However, you can’t charge some types of business expenses, such as inventory and payroll.
• Invoice financing: With this option, you’ll sell your unpaid client invoices to a factoring company in return for a fee. The company will be responsible for collecting client payments for you, and you’ll get an advance on the amount you’re owed. While this can help with cash flow, you’ll lose some of your funds to the interest and fees charged by the factoring company. 
• Personal loan for business use: A personal loan can be a viable option for sole proprietorships or startups without an established business credit history. Note that many personal loan lenders don’t allow their loans to be used for business purposes. However, others do, such as Upstart . 
• Angel investors or venture capital: These funds are investments from individuals or firms in exchange for equity in the business. If you have a startup with high growth potential, working with an angel investor or venture capitalist could be worth pursuing.

Which is right for your business’s needs? Business loans vs. business lines of credit

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

The longest term for a private business loan is generally 10 years — though maximum terms will vary depending on the lender. Government-backed SBA loans, on the other hand, sometimes come with longer terms, depending on the type of loan. For example, you could have up to 25 years to repay an SBA 7(a) loan for real estate.

Yes, it’s possible to get a business loan with a 10-year term. However, remember that terms vary by lender, and you might have to meet more stringent requirements to qualify for the longest terms.

While lenders generally don’t offer 30-year repayment terms on business loans, you might be able to negotiate a longer term with your lender if you’ve been approved. For a successful negotiation, you’ll likely need strong credit and a well-established business history. You might also need to offer collateral to secure a longer term. You might also have an easier time negotiating with a lender you’ve previously worked with, provided you were a good customer. 

Interest rates on long-term business loans vary by lender. As of Feb. 7, 2024, the average rate for a business term loan ranges from 8.49% to 36%. Remember that your rate will also depend on your creditworthiness, market conditions and other factors.

The average term of an SBA loan varies by program. For example, SBA 7(a) loan terms extend up to 10 years for equipment, working capital or inventory, but they can range up to 25 years for real estate. SBA 504 loans are also available for up to 25 years.

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Kiah Treece is a small business owner and former attorney with extensive experience in business and consumer finance. She focuses on demystifying debt so individuals and business owners can take control of their finances. Her work has been published on Forbes Advisor, Investopedia, The Spruce, Rolling Stone, Treehugger and more.

Ashley is a USA TODAY Blueprint loans and mortgages deputy editor who has worked in the online finance space since 2017. She’s passionate about creating helpful content that makes complicated financial topics easy to understand. She has previously worked at Forbes Advisor, Credible, LendingTree and Student Loan Hero. Her work has appeared on Fox Business and Yahoo. Ashley is also an artist and massive horror fan who had her short story “The Box” produced by the award-winning NoSleep Podcast. In her free time, she likes to draw, play video games, and hang out with her black cats, Salem and Binx.

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Biden 'cancels' nearly $6B in student loans for public sector workers

The student loans will be forgiven for 78,000 borrowers working in the public sector, bringing biden's total student debt write-offs to $143.6b.

Biden admin cancels $5 billion in student loan debt

FOX Business Madison Alworth reports from New Hampshire where college and trade schools students are reacting to more loan forgiveness.

President Biden announced Thursday that $5.8 billion in student loans would be "canceled" for 78,000 borrowers working in the public sector, bringing his administration's total student debt write-offs to $143.6 billion.

Biden pledged to find other avenues for tackling debt relief last year after the Supreme Court in June blocked his broader plan to cancel $430 billion in student loan debt, deeming it unconstitutional .

Republicans have often criticized student debt cancellation plans, noting that the loans will be transferred to taxpayers who will ultimately end up footing the bill.

President Biden speaks during the State of the Union address. (Nathan Howard/Bloomberg via / Getty Images)

BIDEN ANNOUNCES PLAN TO BAIL OUT STUDENTS FOR LOAN DEBTS UNDER $12K

The latest plan comes as Biden seeks re-election in November and as the national debt has already shot past $34.5 trillion . By comparison, just four decades ago, the national debt hovered around $907 billion.

Thursday's announcement will see public service employees such as teachers, nurses and firefighters have their debt written off under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF), an initiative created in 2007 and signed into law by President George W. Bush to forgive student debt for Americans who go into public service. It also applies to nonprofit employees.

Biden says the plans bring much-needed relief to borrowers with their debt becoming "a barrier to opportunity."

Demonstrators rally outside the Supreme Court after it struck down President Biden's student debt relief program in June. (Kent Nishimura/Los Angeles Times via / Getty Images)

THE LAWLESSNESS OF BIDEN'S STUDENT LOAN BAILOUT WORKAROUNDS

"These public service workers have dedicated their careers to serving their communities, but because of past administrative failures, never got the relief they were entitled to under the law. Because of the fixes my administration has made, we have now canceled student debt for over 870,000 public service workers – compared to only about 7,000 public service borrowers ever receiving forgiveness prior to my administration. 

"And through all of our various student debt relief actions, nearly four million Americans have had their student debt canceled under my administration."

Activists attend a student loan forgiveness rally near the White House on April 27, 2022. (Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images)

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As of June 2023, about 43.4 million U.S. student loan recipients had $1.63 trillion in outstanding loans, according to the Federal Student Aid website. Higher education debt has tripled since the 2008 financial crisis.

Starting next week, borrowers who receive this forgiveness will get an email from Biden congratulating them on their relief. 

In addition, Biden will also send emails directly to nearly 380,000 additional public service workers who are within two years of debt forgiveness through PSLF. The president’s email to these borrowers will thank them for serving their community and will notify them that if they continue their work in public service, they are on track to have their debt canceled within one or two years.

Reuters contributed to this report.

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What We Know About Trump’s Quest for a Half-Billion-Dollar Bond

Donald J. Trump failed to arrange a bond to halt collection of a $454 million judgment. The New York attorney general might begin to collect very soon.

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By Kate Christobek and Ben Protess

Here’s the latest on Trump’s bond in the N.Y. civil fraud case .

Donald J. Trump is running out of time to stave off a financial crisis.

The former president is racing to secure an appeal bond for roughly half a billion dollars in his civil fraud case in New York, but has so far failed.

If he cannot, the New York attorney general’s office, which brought the fraud case, could begin to collect. The attorney general, Letitia James, could have enforced the judgment last month, but provided Mr. Trump a 30-day grace period that expires on Monday.

Ms. James might start slowly. She could even wait for an appeals court to decide whether to pause the judgment, a decision that could come as soon as this week.

But if she wanted to take a more aggressive stance, Ms. James could freeze some of Mr. Trump’s bank accounts, which might send the Trump family business into a tailspin.

She could also seek to seize some of his New York properties, and public records show that Ms. James has formally posted the judgment in Westchester County, a preliminary step toward staking a claim to Mr. Trump’s private estate and golf club there.

In recent days, The New York Times has received many questions about Mr. Trump’s financial woes. Here are answers to several:

What was Trump accused of?

Ms. James took Mr. Trump, his company and his adult sons to trial last fall, accusing them of fraudulently inflating the value of golf clubs, office buildings and other properties to the tune of about $2 billion.

Mr. Trump exaggerated the property values, and in turn his own net worth, to obtain favorable terms from banks and insurers, according to Ms. James.

At the trial, which lasted months, Ms. James’s lawyers argued that Mr. Trump’s company had ignored appraisals and manipulated numbers to sometimes absurd degrees.

The judge overseeing the case — there was no jury — ruled in favor of Ms. James.

How was he punished?

The judge, Arthur F. Engoron, came down hard on Mr. Trump, imposing a judgment of $355 million plus interest, amounting to $454 million.

The judge also imposed penalties that could curb Mr. Trump’s influence over his family business, barring him from serving as a top executive at a New York company for three years.

Can he appeal?

Yes. Mr. Trump is appealing Justice Engoron’s punishments, and has asked a higher court, the Appellate Division in Manhattan, to pause the financial judgment. If the appeals court denies that, he might ask the state’s highest court, the Court of Appeals in Albany.

Although he does not have to pay Ms. James’s office the $454 million while he appeals, he must either cut a check to the New York State court system for the full amount, or, more likely, obtain a bond.

What is an appeal bond?

An appeal bond is a document in which a company guarantees the $454 million judgment, plus interest, should Mr. Trump lose his appeal and fail to pay.

Mr. Trump would need to pledge significant collateral to a bond company — about $557 million, his lawyers said — including as much cash as possible, as well as stocks and bonds he could sell quickly.

He would also owe the bond company a fee that could amount to nearly $20 million.

Does he have enough cash to obtain one?

Short answer: No.

A recent New York Times analysis found that Mr. Trump had more than $350 million in cash as well as stocks and bonds, far short of what he would need in collateral for the bond.

In a court filing March 18, Mr. Trump’s lawyers said they had contacted more than 30 bond companies, and none had agreed to a deal.

But I thought he was a billionaire?

While Mr. Trump has long bragged about his wealth, his true financial position remains something of a mystery. Most of his fortune is tied up in real estate holdings, which bond companies don’t typically accept as collateral.

He also has less liquid collateral available today than he did even a few weeks ago. Mr. Trump this month had to post a $91.6 million bond in the defamation case he lost to E. Jean Carroll. For that, he most likely had to pledge more than $100 million in collateral to Chubb, the insurance company that provided guarantee. That money cannot be used as collateral for a second bond.

What is the deadline for the appeal bond?

There is no formal deadline. She offered the 30-day grace period and now may wait for the appeals court to weigh in on whether to pause the judgment.

How could Ms. James collect?

It could get ugly for Mr. Trump.

Ms. James could start by merely issuing a list of properties and accounts she is eyeing, or sending subpoenas to locate assets. Or she could move swiftly to freeze and ultimately seize his assets.

If she opted for the more aggressive path, Ms. James could send so-called restraining notices to Mr. Trump’s banks and brokerage firms, effectively freezing his accounts.

It’s a powerful weapon, legal experts said. She can send the notices on her own, without needing a judge to bless them.

To then collect, Ms. James can ask a judge to grant her an order directing the banks to hand over his assets to the state.

“The low-hanging fruit for the state to enforce the judgment in this case is to issue restraining notices to banks,” said Daniel W. Levy, a former federal prosecutor who is now a lawyer at McKool Smith in New York, where he has represented creditors in judgment proceedings.

What about seizing his properties?

Easier said than done.

Mr. Trump does not directly own his properties — in general, they are owned by corporate entities that he controls — and Ms. James would have to fight in court to pierce those layers. Even if Ms. James could take control and force a sale, Mr. Trump’s lenders would be first in line to collect.

The most sensible option, legal experts said, would be for Ms. James to pursue New York properties — specifically the buildings directly owned by a corporate entity that was a defendant in Ms. James’s case. That would include Mr. Trump’s Seven Springs estate in Westchester.

If she took control of the property, she could instruct a local sheriff to auction it.

She might also try to seize some of Mr. Trump’s marquee Florida properties, including his Doral golf resort, which was a defendant.

And she has threatened to take aim at his office tower on Wall Street in Lower Manhattan. But Mr. Trump does not actually own it: Instead, he effectively controls the property and pays rent to the owner.

Trump Tower also poses a challenge, because it was not a defendant, nor is it directly owned by one.

The legal experts cautioned that actually seizing any property through the courts could take significant time without a guarantee of a huge payoff.

But should Mr. Trump win delays, they could cost him. Under New York law, he must continue to pay 9 percent interest on the judgment.

Can she throw him in jail?

Although Ms. James can’t jail Mr. Trump — it is a civil case, not a criminal one — Justice Engoron could issue an arrest warrant if Mr. Trump repeatedly flouts court orders. That, however, is unlikely to happen.

What other options does Trump have?

Mr. Trump could quickly sell a property or another asset, or seek a supporter’s help. He might also try to obtain a loan from a bank, hedge fund or private equity firm that he could then post as collateral. The attorney general has suggested that Mr. Trump could pledge his properties to the court.

And his net worth could soon leap when shares of his social media company start trading on the stock market as soon as Monday. His stake is valued at roughly $3 billion. Although he is prohibited from selling shares for six months, Mr. Trump could find ways around that restriction that enable him to raise cash for the bond.

If all else fails, he could have the corporate entities implicated in the case file for bankruptcy, which would automatically halt judgments against them. Ms. James’s penalty against Mr. Trump himself would continue to be in force, and she would most likely seek to hold him accountable for his company’s debts.

Could Trump use campaign money to pay?

Probably not.

A super PAC supporting Mr. Trump’s candidacy can raise unlimited amounts, but it is banned from coordinating with him and cannot pay the judgment.

And although the former president has used a political action committee under his control to pay for lawyers and witnesses in his legal cases, that group lacks the money to address the $454 million penalty.

What else is happening Monday?

Mr. Trump has a crucial hearing in his Manhattan criminal case, which could be the first prosecution of a former American president.

The district attorney, Alvin L. Bragg, has accused Mr. Trump of covering up a sex scandal involving a porn star to bolster his 2016 presidential campaign.

Jury selection was originally scheduled to start on March 25, but the trial was delayed late last week after the disclosure of more than 100,000 pages of records that had been in the possession of the federal prosecutors

Justice Juan M. Merchan set the hearing to determine whether the new tentative trial date of April 15 should hold, and to rule on Mr. Trump’s motion for an outright dismissal.

The Manhattan case is among four prosecutions Mr. Trump faces.

Ben Protess is an investigative reporter at The Times, writing about public corruption. He has been covering the various criminal investigations into former President Trump and his allies. More about Ben Protess