Many unsuccessful start-ups may have suffered from lack of a business plan -- an essential component in the business formation stage, often in the form of a written document that contains a business' development strategy, analysis of risks, identification of crucial markets, and financial forecasts. In early company development, the business plan serves as a tool for initial founders and employees to guide the company toward financial success, and may eventually serve as a marketing plan to generate investor confidence by outlining a specific map for the future. The IP Office will work with your start-up company to form a relevant and complete business plan. 


An example business plan template is as follows:

• Executive Summary
  • Objectives
  • Mission
  • Keys to success

• Products and Services
  • Product and service description
  • Sourcing and fulfillment

• Intellectual Property
  • Patents/Copyrights/Trademarks/Service Marks/Know-How

• Market Analysis Summary
  • The overall market
  • Changes in the market
  • Market segments
  • Target market and customers
  • Customer characteristics, needs, and buying decisions

• Strategy and Implementation Summary
  • Key competitive capabilities and weaknesses
  • Strategy
  • Sales strategy
  • Sales forecast
  • Advertising
  • Promotions/incentives

• Management Summary
  • Organizational structure
  • Management team
  • Personnel plan

• Financial Plan
  • Cash Flow requirements
  • Break-even analysis
  • Projected profit/loss
  • Long-term plan