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5 Best Business Plan Software in 2022

Sally Lauckner

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

When you’re starting a business, developing a strong business plan will be one of the first steps you take. Your business plan will cover everything from a detailed explanation of your products or services and pricing model to at least three years of financial projections—plus much more. Therefore, whether you’re not sure how to get started or you’re just looking to make the process easier, you may want to turn to business plan software for help.

In this guide, we'll break down five of the best business plan software options—discussing their pros, cons, features, pricing, and more—so you have all the information you need to decide which solution is right for your small business.

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The 5 best business plan software options

The right business plan software will make the process of writing your business plan much simpler. Like many business software solutions, however, there are a number of different business plan software options out there—each of which has a unique set of features, user experience, and price.

This being said, if you're looking for a place to start your search for the best business plan software, you can explore the five top options below:

How much do you need?

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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.

1. LivePlan

Best overall business plan software.

If you want template-rich, modern-feeling business plan software, then LivePlan may be the right pick for you. LivePlan excels with their user interface, which feels updated and slick, and also offers intuitive, easy-to-use features and options.

Their step-by-step instruction will help you kick things off from the beginning, and you can take advantage of their online learning center to continue to gain business skills.

Affordable plans, including pay-as-you-go option

No long-term contracts or cancellation fee; 60-day money-back guarantee

Modern, intuitive interface; cloud-based, can be used on Mac, PC, as well as tablets

Ability to create unlimited plans in one account; over 500 customizable templates

Variety of business resources including video tutorials, step-by-step instruction, and general customer support

Limited integration options

Challenging to enter your own financial modeling projections

Can be difficult to learn

Ability to create an unlimited number of business plans on one account

More than 500 business plan templates spanning various industries

Integration with Xero and QuickBooks Online

Real-time tracking of financial data with accounting integrations

Ability to export your business plan to Word or PDF

Expert advice and step-by-step instruction included

Performance dashboards for tracking against budgets and sales goals

Ability to create and export a one-page pitch executive summary

Annual plan: $15 per month, billed every 12 months

Six-month plan: $18 per month, billed every six months

Pay-as-you-go plan: $20 per month, billed once every month

2. GoSmallBiz

Best for multiple business management tools in one platform.

Next on our list of the best business plan software options is GoSmallBiz, which is much more than just a business plan software. With GoSmallBiz, you have access to business continuity planning software with features that cover creating a roadmap, working through business and legal forms, building a website, and more.

In this way, GoSmallBiz is great for startups or newer businesses looking to access multiple business management tools through one platform.

Unlimited business consultation and extensive library of online resources

Multiple business tools in one software

Website consultation analysis and business assessment

Industry-specific business plan templates with emphasis on financial projections and statements

Expensive monthly cost compared to alternatives

Limited business plan features

Entire business plan can only be exported to Microsoft Word

Outdated interface

Industry-specific business plan templates with step-by-step building wizard

Ability to create financial statements and projections

Free website hosting and website builder

Customer relationship manager with integration with MailChimp

Digital marketing dashboard with social media and Google Analytics integrations

HR document builder

Corporate minutes writer

Business documents library

Business courses library

Unlimited business consultation

$39 per month, no contracts, free cancellation

Best for simple, fast business plan creation.

If you're looking for free business plan software, Enloop will be one of your closest options—they offer an all-inclusive seven-day free trial, no credit card required. Additionally, unlike some of the other options on our list, Enloop is strictly dedicated to business plan creation, including automated text writing, financial forecast comparisons, and a real-time performance score that tracks your progress.

This being said, if you'd prefer the most straightforward, fast, and simple way to write your business plan, Enloop will be a platform worth considering.

Simple and straightforward software, solely dedicated to business plan creation

Seven-day free trial

Automatic text generation available to streamline the writing process

Affordable plans with annual discount option

Limited additional educational resources

Only one template option

No integration options

Ability to create three business plans with customizable text, images, tables, charts, and over 100 currency symbols and formats

Includes automatic text generation for each plan section that you can then customize

Automatically generated financial statements

Includes financial performance comparison analysis (using three ratios with Detailed plan and 16 with Performance plan)

Real-time performance score to track your progress

Ability to invite users to edit (two with Detailed plan, five with Performance plan)

Pass/fail report and certificate to help you identify issues with your plan

Free plan: Seven-day free trial with no credit card required

Detailed plan: $19.95 per month or $11 per month, paid annually

Performance plan: $39.95 per month, or $24 per month, paid annually

Best for startups looking to acquire funding or find investors.

Part of the Startups.com suite, Bizplan gets top marks for their user interface—it’s intuitive, easy to use, and modern. You’ll work with a step-by-step business plan builder to get exactly what you’d like from your business plan. It may remind you of a modern website builder, since it has drag-and-drop tools to build templates.

Moreover, for one subscription fee, you have access to all of the tools in the Startups.com network, including self-guided courses, how-to guides, masterclass videos, and more. All in all, with a direct connection to Fundable, Bizplan is a top business plan software option for startups looking to acquire funding and find investors.

Subscription gives you access to all Startups.com tools

Lifetime access subscription option

User-friendly drag-and-drop business plan builder

Excellent educational resources

Connection to Fundable great for businesses looking for capital

No free trial

No templates based on industry

No mobile access

Drag-and-drop templates for business plan building

Financial command center to track all business financials in one place

Unlimited account collaborators

Ability to share business plan online with investors

Online resources including self-guided courses, masterclass videos, how-to guides, mentorship access

Unlimited software use for Fundable, Launchrock, and Startups.com

Monthly plan: $29 per month

Annual plan: $20.75 per month, billed at $249 per year

Lifetime access: $349 one-time fee

5. PlanGuru

Best for financial planning and budgeting.

Finally, for some of the strongest financial features among business plan software options, including budgeting and forecasting, you might check out PlanGuru. Whereas the other solutions we've reviewed were first and foremost focused on writing a business plan, PlanGuru is dedicated to business financial planning —providing the tools you need to create budgets, financial forecasts, reports, and more.

Therefore, if you need a software solution that can streamline the financial piece of your business planning processes, PlanGuru will certainly have the most to offer.

Extensive financial tools and detailed forecasting, budgeting, and reporting capabilities

Substantial library of resources

Cloud-based and desktop options

14-day free trial and 30-day money-back guarantee

Expensive, especially for additional users

Only focuses on the financial aspect of business planning; no templates or tools for basic business plan writing

Difficult to use without prior financial knowledge

Cloud-based version of software, as well as locally installed Windows version (desktop version has a few more features)

Works with QuickBooks Online, Xero, and Excel

Budgeting and forecasting for up to 10 years

Over 20 standard forecasting methods

Formula builder to create custom methods

Ratios and KPIs

Dashboard and reporting tools

Help guides, video tutorials, knowledgebase, and live U.S.-based customer support

14-day free trial

$99 per month (additional users $29 per month)

$899 per year (additional users $299 per year)

What to look for in business plan software

Ultimately, it's up to you to decide, which, if any, of the best business plan software solutions on our list is right for your business.

So, if you're trying to figure out how to choose between the various options out there, it might be helpful to compare your top choices based on the following criteria:

Features: As we've seen different business plan software solutions offer different features. You'll want to look carefully at the feature list of any software and determine what features are most important for your business needs. Do you need an extensive library of templates with detailed customization? Would you prefer software that includes an online learning center for business skills? Are you looking for a solution that combines business plan writing with other tasks? It may be useful to list out your ideal feature set, so you can compare individual software plans to that list.

Price: Although you might be able to find some free business plan software options (or at the very least, free trials), in most cases, you'll need to pay a subscription fee to access the platform you choose. Therefore, you'll want to think about what your budget is for this business tool and what type of software is most cost-effective for your needs.

User experience: User experience can vary widely among different business plan software options. You’ll find some programs that are newer or have been recently updated. Others might have the kind of interfaces that felt new years ago but are now pretty out of date—and, subsequently, make them a little harder to use. The right user experience for your needs is genuinely a matter of opinion and comfort—nevertheless, it's worth testing thoroughly testing out a platform to ensure that it can truly work for you before investing in a monthly or annual subscription.

The bottom line

There's no doubt that properly crafting your business plan is important for the future growth and success of your small business. Luckily, the right business plan software should make the process much simpler.

This being said, whether you opt for one of the best business plan software options listed here, or another platform entirely, you'll want to take the time to compare multiple solutions and ensure you choose the one that's right for your business.

As we mentioned, it can be helpful to think about the features you're looking for, your budget, and your user-experience preferences ahead of time—that way, you'll have a set of criteria in mind as you explore different solutions.

Ultimately, perhaps the best thing you can do to find the right software is to actually test out the platforms themselves—either by using a free trial or a money-back guarantee.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

On a similar note...

Home > Business > Business Startup

  • 5 Best Business Plan Software and Tools in 2023 for Your Small Business

4.5 out of 5 stars

Data as of 3 /13/23 . Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change.

Chloe Goodshore

We are committed to sharing unbiased reviews. Some of the links on our site are from our partners who compensate us. Read our editorial guidelines and advertising disclosure .

A business plan can do a lot for your business. It can help you secure investors or other funding. It can give your company direction. It can keep your finances healthy. But, if we’re being honest, it can also be a pain to write.

Luckily, you don’t have to start from scratch or go it alone. Business plan software and services can help you craft a professional business plan, like our top choice LivePlan , which provides templates, guidance, and more.

You’ve got quite a few choices for business plan help, so we’re here to help you narrow things down. Let’s talk about the best business plan tools out there.

  • LivePlan : Best overall
  • BizPlanBuilder : Most user-friendly
  • Wise Business Plans : Best professional service
  • Business Sorter : Best for internal plans
  • GoSmallBiz.com : Most extra features
  • Honorable mentions

Business plan software 101

The takeaway, business plan software faq, compare the best business plan software.

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LivePlan: Best overall business plan software

Data as of 3 /13/23 . Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. *With annual billing

LivePlan has been our favorite business plan software for a while now, despite the stiff competition.

There’s a lot to like about LivePlan. It has pretty much all the features you could want from your business plan software. LivePlan gives you step-by-step instructions for writing your plan, helps you create financial reports, lets you compare your business’s actual financials to your plan’s goals, and much more. And if you ever need inspiration, it includes hundreds of sample business plans that can guide your writing.

LivePlan software pricing

But the best part? You get all that (and more) at a very competitive price. (You can choose from annual, six-month, or monthly billing.) While LivePlan isn’t quite the cheapest business plan builder out there, it’s not too far off either. And if comes with a 60-day money back guarantee. So there’s no risk in trying LivePlan out for yourself.

With a great balance of features and cost, LivePlan offers the best business plan solution for most businesses.

BizPlanBuilder: Most user-friendly

Need something easy to use? BizPlanBuilder fits the bill.

BizPlanBuilder doesn’t have a flashy, modern user interface―but it does have a very clear, intuitive one. You’ll be able to see your plan’s overall structure at a glance, so you can quickly navigate from your title page to your market trend section to that paragraph on your core values. And as you write, you’ll use a text editor that looks a whole lot like the word processing programs you’re already familiar with.

BizPlanBuilder software pricing

Data effective 3/13/23. At publishing time, amounts, rates, and requirements are current but are subject to change. Offers may not be available in all areas.

BizPlanBuilder also offers lots of helpful guidance for actually writing your plan. It gives you pre-written text, in which you just have to fill in relevant details. It offers explanations for what information you need to include in each section of your plan and way. It even gives you helpful tips from experts, so you’ll have all the information you need to plan like a pro.

So if you want planning software with almost no learning curve, you’ll like BizPlanBuilder.

Wise Business Plans: Best professional service

  • Custom quote

Unlike all the other companies on this list, Wise Business Plans doesn’t offer software. Instead, it offers professional business plan writing services―meaning someone does all the hard work for you.

Now, you might think that sounds expensive―and you’re probably right (you have to request a custom quote for your plan). But there’s a lot to be said for expertise, and Wise Business Plans has plenty of that. Your business plan will get written by an experienced writer (with an MBA, no less). They’ll get information from you, do their own research, and then write your plan. You get one free revision, and you can always pay for more.  

Wise Business Plans service pricing

Your end result will be a polished, entirely original business plan. (You can even get printed copies.) And best of all, you won’t have to spend your precious time working on the plan yourself. Wise Business Plans takes care of all the hard parts, and makes your business look good while doing it. Sounds like a service worth paying for, right?

Put simply, if you want the most professional business plan possible, we recommend using Wise Business Plans’s writing service.

Business Sorter: Best for internal plans

Many businesses need plans to show to people outside the company (to get financing, for example). But what if you just need a plan for internal use? In that case, we suggest Business Sorter.

Business Sorter uses a unique card-based method to help you craft the perfect business plan. (You can watch a demo video to see how it works.) You’ll plan some of the usual things, like finances and marketing. But Business Sorter also lets you make plans for specific teams and team members. It also emphasizes more internal matters, like operations, that might get overlooked in a business plan for outsiders.

Business Sorter software pricing

After you’ve made your business plan, Business Sorter also helps you stay accountable to it. You can create tasks, give them deadlines, and assign them to team members―giving you basic project management tools to make sure your business plans become business actions. (Oh, and did we mention that Business Sorter has the lowest starting prices of any software on this list?)

It all adds up to a business plan software that works great for internal planning.

GoSmallBiz: Most extra features

Want to get way more than just business planning software? Then you probably want GoSmallBiz.

See, GoSmallBiz offers business plan software as part of its service―but it’s just one part of a much bigger whole. You also get everything from discounts on legal services to a website builder to a CRM (customer relationship manager) to business document templates. And more. In other words, you get just about everything you need to get your startup off the ground.

GoSmallBiz software pricing

Don’t worry though―you still get all the business planning help you need. GoSmallBiz gives you business plan templates, step-by-step instructions, and the ability to create financial projections. And if you get stuck, GoSmallBiz will put you in touch with experts who can offer advice.

If you want business planning and much, much more, give GoSmallBiz a try.

  • PlanGuru : Best financial forecasting
  • EnLoop : Cheapest tool for startups

We recommend the software above for most business planning needs. Some businesses, though, might be interested in these more specialized planning software.

Honorable mention software pricing

Planguru: best financial forecasting features.

Plan Guru

PlanGuru is pretty pricey compared to our other picks, but you might find its forecasting features worth paying for. It has more forecasting methods than other software (over 20) plus it lets you forecast up to 10 years.

EnLoop: Cheapest tool for startups

enloop logo

EnLoop doesn’t have our favorite features or interface, but it does have really, really low pricing plus a seven-day free trial. It's the most affordable software for startup business planning and still provides all the essential features like financial analysis, team collaboration, charting, and more.

Data as of 3 /13/23 . Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. * With annual billing

Several of our previous favorite planning software, including BusinessPlanPro and StratPad, seem to have gone out of business.

A business plan is a written, living document that tells the story of your business and what you plan to do with it. It serves as the source of truth for you—the business owner—as well as potential partners, employees, and investors, but it also serves as a roadmap of what you want your business to be.

Why you need a business plan

While some small-business owners don’t see the point of creating a formal business plan, it can have some concrete benefits for your business. For example, one 2016 study found that business owners with written plans are more successful than those that don’t. 1

Still too vague? Then let’s get specific.

If you ever seek business funding (from, say, banks, angel investors , or venture capitalists ), you’ll have to prove that your business deserves the money you want. A formal business plan―complete with financial data and projections―gives you a professional document you can use to make your case. (In fact, most potential investors will expect you to have a business plan ready.)

Even if you’re not seeking funding right now, a business plan can help your business. A formal plan can guide your business’s direction and decision making. It can keep your business accountable (by, for example, seeing if your business meets the financial projections you included). And a formal plan offers a great way to make sure your team stays on the same page.

What to include in your business plan

Not all business plans are created equal. To make a really useful business plan, you’ll want to include a number of elements:

  • Basic information about your business
  • Your products/services
  • Market and industry analysis
  • What makes your business competitive
  • Strategies and upcoming plans
  • Your team (and your team’s background)
  • Current financial status
  • Financial and market projections
  • Executive summary

Of course, you can include more or fewer elements―whatever makes sense for your business. Just make sure your business plan is comprehensive (but not overwhelming).

How business plan software can help

With so many elements to include, business plan creation can take a while. Business plan software tries to speed things up.

Most business plan software will include prompts for each section. In some cases, you can just fill in your business’s specific information, and the software will write the text for you. In other cases, the software will give you specific guidance and examples, helping you write the text yourself.

Plus, business plan software can help you stay organized. You’ll usually get intuitive menus that let you quickly flip through sections. So rather than endlessly scrolling through a long document in a word processor, you can quickly find your way around your plan. Some software even lets you drag and drop sections to reorganize your plan.

Sounds way easier than just staring at a blank page and trying to start from scratch, right?

Choosing business plan software

To find the right business plan builder for your business, you’ll want to compare features. For example, would you rather write your own text, getting prompts and advice from your software? Or would you rather go with a fill-in-the-blank method?

Likewise, think about the elements you need. If your plan will have a heavy focus on finances, you’ll want to choose business plan software with robust financial projection features. If you care more about market and competitor analysis, look for software that can help with that research.

You may also want to find business plan software that integrates with your business accounting software . Some plan builders will import data from Xero, QuickBooks, etc. to quickly generate your financial data and projections.

And of course, you’ll want to compare prices. After all, you always want to end up with software that fits your business budget.

The right business plan software can make your life easier. With LivePlan ’s wide breadth of features and online learning tools, you can’t go wrong. Plus, BizPlanBuilder 's one-time pricing makes it easy to invest while Business Sorter has a low starting cost. And if you're business is looking to grow, GoSmallBiz and Wise Business Plans will scale with you.

But of course, different companies have different needs. So shop around until you find the software that’s best for you and your business.

Now that you've got a business plan, take a look at our checklist for starting a small business.  It can help you make sure you have everything else you need to get your startup off to a good start!

Related content

  • 7 Steps to Build a Successful Project Management Sales Plan
  • Best Project Management Software and Tools in 2023
  • 4 Cost Management Techniques for Small Businesses

Creating a business plan can take anywhere from a couple hours to several weeks. Your timeline will depend on things like the elements you choose to include, whether you use software or hire a writing service, and how much research goes into your plan.

That said, much of the business plan software out there brags that it can help you create a fairly detailed plan in a few hours. So if you’re going the software route, that can help you set your expectations.

If you want to get the most out of your business plan, you should update it on a regular basis―at least annually. That way, you can continually refer to it to inform your company’s strategies and direction.  

At the very least, you should update your business plan before you start looking for a new round of funding (whether that’s with investors or lenders).

Thanks to business plan software, you can easily write your own business plan rather than pay someone to do it for you. And in most cases, software will cost you less than a professional business plan service.

There are some times you might want to go with a service though. If time is tight, you might find that it’s worth the cost of a service. Or if you’ve got big investor meetings on the horizon, you might want the expertise and polish that a professional service can offer.

Ultimately, you’ll have to decide for yourself whether business plan software or a business plan service will work better for your company.

Methodology

We ranked business plan software and tools based on features, pricing and plans, and connections to project management and other services. The value of each plan and service, along with what it offers, was a big consideration in our rankings, and we looked to see if what was offered was useful to small businesses or just extra. The final thing we looked at was the ease of use of the software to see if it's too complex for small businesses.

At Business.org, our research is meant to offer general product and service recommendations. We don't guarantee that our suggestions will work best for each individual or business, so consider your unique needs when choosing products and services.

Sources 1. Harvard Business Review, “ Research: Writing a Business Plan Makes Your Startup More Likely to Succeed .” Accessed March 13, 2023.

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Disclaimer: The information featured in this article is based on our best estimates of pricing, package details, contract stipulations, and service available at the time of writing. All information is subject to change. Pricing will vary based on various factors, including, but not limited to, the customer’s location, package chosen, added features and equipment, the purchaser’s credit score, etc. For the most accurate information, please ask your customer service representative. Clarify all fees and contract details before signing a contract or finalizing your purchase.

Our mission is to help consumers make informed purchase decisions. While we strive to keep our reviews as unbiased as possible, we do receive affiliate compensation through some of our links. This can affect which services appear on our site and where we rank them. Our affiliate compensation allows us to maintain an ad-free website and provide a free service to our readers. For more information, please see our  Privacy Policy Page . |

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Guides you like a business coach

LivePlan’s step-by-step instructions, examples, prompts and definitions of key business terms guide you through each phase of creating a professional business plan.

Access a library of over 550+ sample business plans for inspiration, chat with support for additional help, or join an expert-led webinar to get additional business planning tips and wisdom.

AI-Powered Planning

AI-Powered Planning

Welcome to a world without writer’s block

LivePlan asks you questions about your business, you simply plug in the answers. It’s as easy as that. Get expert guidance, instructions, and examples at each step.

Not sure where to start? The AI-Powered LivePlan Assistant will automatically generate ideas for each section of your plan and offer improved versions of your writing, adjusting for tone, voice, and grammar or spelling errors.

Automatic Financials

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Forget the formulas and focus on your vision

Forget the complex formulas and spreadsheets — with automatic financials and drag-and-drop forecasting you can finish faster and be confident your numbers are accurate.

Instantly get tailored revenue and expense suggestions to add to your forecast using the AI-Powered LivePlan Assistant.

Growth Planning

Growth Planning

Manage your growth with a data-driven process

Markets change faster than ever and technology evolves at breakneck speed. Be ready to adapt quickly, stay focused, and make decisions that are best for your business with growth planning.

LivePlan will teach you this simple, repeatable, four-step process to help keep your business healthy — no matter what stage you’re at.

How We’re Different

More than business plan software

LivePlan isn’t just a tool to easily create a business pitch, plan, and financials — it’s a comprehensive business planning system to help you plan, fund, and grow.

Plenty of support to help you succeed

Inspiration powered by ai.

Use the LivePlan Assistant to instantly generate ideas at each step of your plan. You can also access 550+ sample plans to find one that matches your industry.

Guidance from business experts

Stay on track with video walk–throughs, webinars, and more from business planning experts.

If you ever get stuck, our team will help

If you ever have a question, you can instantly chat with a LivePlan expert.

Create a plan and build your business dreams

Frequently asked questions, how does a business plan builder like liveplan compare to free templates or other tools.

LivePlan is way more than business planning software , and far more powerful than a business plan template. Not only does it guide you through each step of writing your business plan - which you won’t get from a template - you won’t have to use spreadsheets to do your financials or create charts and graphs. As your business evolves, LivePlan helps you track your performance, lets you define the tasks needed to grow your business, and contains competitive industry benchmarks. No other template or tool comes close to the support, guidance, and ease that LivePlan brings to creating a business plan.

Do I need to have anything ready, like research or financials, before using LivePlan to build my business plan

No! Using LivePlan you can dive right in to starting your business plan with no preparation necessary. Working through LivePlan, you’ll be guided through where you need to supplement your knowledge of your market and industry. Of course, as you create your business plan you may need to gather additional data to add important details to your plan.

What is SBA approved formatting and will LivePlan help me create a business plan for the SBA?

The Small Business Administration, or SBA, requires business plans to be formatted in a specific way and include details indicating your business is viable. All LivePlan business plans follow SBA-approved formatting so you can ensure they include everything the SBA would expect to see.

What are all the things I can do in LivePlan?

LivePlan contains a number of powerful tools packed into one easy-to-use software. With LivePlan you can: Build a pitch, write and share a business plan, hammer out financial forecasts, build a one-page business plan, compare your performance against industry benchmarks, and so much more .

Can I explore LivePlan before signing up?

Absolutely. To experience planning in LivePlan, visit our interactive product tour or watch some of our getting started videos .

W r iting your business plan just got easier.

Our Interactive Business Plan Builder will provide you with guidance and support when it comes to putting together a compelling business plan. Th is free interactive tool is for anyone—from aspiring entrepreneurs with a new business idea , to existing business owners looking to pivot their current business model or secure new funding.

business plan builder

What is it?

We know writing a business plan alone can seem like a big undertaking. Our free Business Plan Builder makes writing your business plan simple —t he tool walk s you through the business planning process from start to finish and includes tips, examples, and 1:1 support along the way from our Business Strategists.

The tool breaks down your plan into easy-to-manage steps and sections and allows you to save your work as you go so that you can complete it whenever it works for you. When you’re finished putting everything together, you can submit your business plan for review and our Business Strategists will provide one-on-one coaching and support.

Who is it for?

  • Entrepreneurs & aspiring entrepreneurs in Alberta with a new business idea
  • Existing business owners looking at pivoting their current business model
  • Business owners or entrepreneurs that never really had the time needed to develop a comprehensive business plan
  • Business owners or entrepreneurs looking to secure funding

Whether you are just getting started or an experienced business owner, this tool can help you with your business plan. Still feel lost? Our Small Business Basics video series and Small Business Guides can provide the clarity you need to get started. We can also review your business plan when you are done with your plan.

What’s so great about it?

Detailed descriptions, examples, and tips to help you complete your business plan with ease

Our Business Strategists are available to help yo u as you work through each section

Submit your business plan for personalized feedback from our team of Business Strategists

Download your plan as a Microsoft Word doc or PDF file, or add it to your Google Drive to add final touches

Check out our Interactive Business Plan Builder!

Don’t have a business plan yet? Get started with our free Interactive Business Plan Builder. The tool will walk you through the business planning process with details on what to include in each section, helpful tips, and examples.

Have your business plan reviewed

Our small business strategists can review your business plan and provide you with feedback and coaching to get it to where it needs to be – whether you’re looking for financing, or just need to work out the details of your business idea.

Don’t have a business plan yet? Get started with our free interactive Business Plan Builder . The tool will walk you through the business planning process with details on what to include in each section, helpful tips, and examples. When you’re done, export your plan and submit it for review!

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Cash Flow Templates

Do you plan on asking for funding for your small business? Access the cash flow template you need to go with your funding request.

Is there a time limit to complete my business plan?

No. Take your time to do the necessary research needed to complete your business plan. Don’t forget to contact us for help if you need it!

Should I complete all the sections in order?

The business plan is designed to guide you through the process; however, you can work on the sections in any order you like.

Can I duplicate my business plan?

Yes. Go to “My Business Plans” and find the business plan you want to duplicate. Click on the “Duplicate” button and rename your business plan.

Can I collaborate with my business partner(s) (another user) on creating the business plan?

Unfortunately, this tool doesn’t currently offer this functionality. However, you can export your plan and collaborate with others outside of the tool if needed.

If I need some help while writing my business plan, where can I go?

At Business Link, we’ve got a number of different resources and supports that can assist you in creating a compelling business plan, depending on what type of assistance you need. Here are some resources to get you started:

1. In each business plan section, we provide tips and examples to point you in the right direction.

2. On the right-hand side navigation bar, you’ll find more resources to help you work through your business plan. You can also download our Cashflow Template here .

3. Have specific questions and want one-on-one help? We understand that writing a business plan can feel like a daunting task. Many of our business strategists are or have been entrepreneurs themselves, so they know the struggle. Contact us for personalized support.

Can I further customize my business plan, for example, by adding a business logo?

Definitely! Simply export the business plan as a Word Doc or Google Doc and you can begin further customization from there.

Will my business plan be shared with anyone?

Your business plan is your intellectual property (IP), and we take confidentiality seriously. We will never share your data or your business plan with anyone unless we get explicit permission to do so. If you submit your plan for review by a business strategist, only that strategist will have access to your plan.

Now my business plan is completed! What’s next?

Feel free to submit your business plan to us for review ; one of our business strategists will provide feedback and help you with one-on-one support.

I completed my business plan using a template found online, can I still submit it for review?

Yes! Just connect with one of our business strategists through our contact us form before submitting a copy for review.

Doing market research  is an important part of a business plan and I know you offer that service. Is there any way to bundle these services together?  

We have teams that are experts in different areas, so it’s tough to create a package of different services right now.  However, if you access our secondary market research services, we’ll send you a promo code that will give you a discount when you submit your business plan for review.  

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • In each business plan section, we provide tips and examples to point you in the right direction.
  • On the right-hand side navigation bar, you’ll find more resources to help you work through your business plan. You can also download our Cashflow Template here .
  • Have specific questions and want one-on-one help? We understand that writing a business plan can feel like a daunting task. Many of our business strategists are or have been entrepreneurs themselves, so they know the struggle. Contact us for personalized support.

Feel free to submit your business plan to us for review; one of our business strategists will provide feedback and help you with one-on-one support.

Doing market research is an important part of a business plan and I know you offer that service. Is there any way to bundle these services together?

We have teams that are experts in different areas, so it’s tough to create a package of different services right now. However, if you access our secondary market research services, we’ll send you a promo code that will give you a discount when you submit your business plan for review.

Did you have a business plan in the old business plan builder? Unfortunately, after September 30th you can no longer access your Business Link user account to export your business plans, as the account function has been removed. To receive a copy of any plans you had in the original builder, please contact us today and we will be happy to help you.

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Writing a business plan can be overwhelming… Here is a key to your problem; try Upmetrics AI Assistant and write your business plan effortlessly. Seven features to sharpen your content with our AI assistant:

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Upmetrics business plan builder comes with a beautifully designed cover pages. Choose professional, creative cover pages to make your business plan stand out.

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Invite your team members to initiate conversations, discuss inputs in real-time, and share respective feedback through easy-to-navigate the comment section. This ensures that your business plan reflects relevant information that has been logically organized to create maximum impact.  After all, great things happen when great minds work together.

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Blog Business

7 Best Business Plan Software for 2024

By Krystle Wong , Jan 01, 2024

7 Best Business Plan Software

Gone are the days of staring at blank pages and struggling to structure a business plan effectively. With user-friendly interfaces and a wide range of business plan templates catering to various industries, creating business plans that are polished, professional and data-driven can now be done in a fraction of the time.

For startups, business plan software guides them through the crucial early stages with comprehensive business plan templates and financial modeling tools. Established businesses on the other hand benefit from the software’s collaborative features, enabling seamless teamwork as they pivot, innovate and pursue new growth opportunities.

In this article, let’s delve into exploring the seven best business plan software for 2024. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur with a groundbreaking idea or a seasoned business owner ready to elevate your enterprise to new heights, these software solutions have all you need to create a solid business plan.

Click to jump ahead:

What is a business plan software?

  • 7 Best business plan software for 2024

Factors to consider when choosing a business plan software

7 steps to create your own business plan, business plan software faq, key takeaway.

A Business plan software is a specialized digital tool designed to assist entrepreneurs, startups and established businesses in creating, organizing and presenting comprehensive business plans. 

Business plan software significantly reduces the time and effort required to create a comprehensive business plan . The availability of business plan templates, financial modeling tools and automated features streamlines the process of business planning and eliminates the need for starting from scratch.

Some advanced business planning software even integrates market research capabilities. This feature provides users with access to market trends, industry benchmarks and relevant data. Access to such data helps users make informed decisions and demonstrate a thorough understanding of their target market.

7 Best business plan software for 2024 

1. venngage.

Venngage

Venngage specializes in transforming traditional business plans into captivating visual stories. Visuals can communicate complex information effectively, ensuring your ideas stand out and resonate with your audience.

When it comes to business planning, conveying your ideas with impact is just as important as the content itself. In this digital age, visual storytelling has emerged as a powerful way to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression. That’s where Venngage steps in.

With a rich library of templates, Venngage offers a variety of themes and styles to suit different industries and business types. Customize your business plans with our user-friendly drag-and-drop tools by adding your brand elements, customizing colors, fonts and visuals to make your business plan truly unique. Check out our library of sample business plans to get started today.

However, while Venngage excels in visual storytelling, it might not be the go-to tool for in-depth financial forecasts and analysis. Users seeking extensive financial modeling might want to complement Venngage with a comprehensive business planning tool.

Pricing options:

Create your first 5 designs with Venngage for free and upgrade to a premium or business plan for $10/month per user and $24/month per user respectively to enjoy premium features. For larger teams who need extra support, controls and security, the enterprise plan starts from $499/month for 10+ seats.

Can I collaborate with team members using this business plan software?

Yes, absolutely! Venngage offers collaborative features that allow you to work seamlessly with multiple team members when creating business plans. You can invite team members to join your Venngage account and they can contribute to the design process in real time. 

Can I export my business plan to different file formats?

Upgrade to a premium or business plan on Venngage to export your professional business plan to different file formats. After designing your business plan, you can choose to export it as a high-quality PDF document, which is ideal for sharing and printing. Additionally, Venngage allows you to export your business plan as an image file (PNG or JPG), making it easy to use in presentations or on your website. 

Is this business plan software suitable for startups or established businesses? 

Venngage is great for entrepreneurs and businesses looking to enhance their business plans with visually engaging infographics and visual assets.

Instead of sharing a lengthy, 50-page document that may bore your audience and fail to effectively convey your message — present your business plan with infographics. Here’s how you can create a business plan infographic that will wow your readers and showcase your business at its best. 

2. LivePlan

LivePlan

Source: Screenshot from LivePlan

In the realm of business planning software, LivePlan stands out as a reliable and user-friendly tool. With a focus on seamless financial forecasting and budgeting capabilities, LivePlan streamlines the planning process, helping businesses transform their visions into reality.

The software’s financial forecasting tools provide users with the ability to project revenue, expenses and cash flow accurately. This financial insight is invaluable for making informed decisions and setting realistic goals.

For hassle-free data integration, the business plan software offers seamless integration with accounting software. This feature allows users to import financial data effortlessly, saving time and reducing manual data entry.

While LivePlan excels in financial planning and user-friendliness, some users may find the customization options for design and layout to be limited. For businesses seeking highly tailored visual aesthetics, LivePlan’s template-based approach might be less ideal.

The standard plan is available at $20/month for monthly billing and $15/month for annual billing. For businesses seeking extensive financial tools to support their operations and growth, the Premium plan costs $20 for the first month and $40/month (monthly billing) or $30/month (annual billing) for subsequent months.

LivePlan facilitates seamless collaboration among users within your account, allowing multiple individuals to work on the same plan concurrently. To prevent conflicting edits, LivePlan restricts access to specific sections, allowing only one user to edit at a time while others observe the locked section.

You can export your business plan by using the print to PDF feature. This generates your plan content in a standard file format compatible with Adobe Reader and other free reader programs. Alternatively, you can export your plan to Microsoft Word (2007 or later).

A great tool for small businesses, startups and entrepreneurs looking for easy-to-use software with solid financial planning tools.

3. BizPlan by Startups.com

BizPlan by Startups.com

Source: Screenshot from BizPlan

If you’re a startup aiming to raise investments, BizPlan is the one for you. As a universal professional business plan builder, BizPlan offers the added advantage of seamless integration with all the tools within the Startups.com network.

Designed with startups in mind, BizPlan’s step-by-step approach allows you to break down the entire scope of work into manageable steps and the built-in Progress Tracker tool keeps you on track towards success.

Once you subscribe, BizPlan opens the door to utilizing all the tools offered by Startups.com, making it a one-stop shop for your entrepreneurial needs. Whether it’s lifetime access to the service, connectivity to Findable to attract financial investments, a wealth of online educational programs or the ability to connect multiple owners to a single account, BizPlan delivers comprehensive support.

While the business plan software offers an array of benefits, it’s essential to consider the possible downsides. The absence of a free version and a mobile app, along with a lack of industry-specific templates for business plans may be worth considering before making your decision

Pricing plan options:

  • Monthly plan ($29 per month)
  • Annual plan ($20.75 per month or $249/year)
  • Lifetime access (one-time fee of $349)

Bizplan encourages collaboration with partners, team members, advisors and subject matter experts by allowing threaded comments throughout the entire plan. It provides control over who can access sensitive financial data and enables convenient cloud-based access from anywhere.

Bizplan provides multiple options for sharing your business plan with others. You can generate an online version of your plan, which can be set as private by default or made publicly accessible through a unique shareable URL. Additionally, Bizplan offers the option to create a custom-branded PDF of your business plan. 

BizPlan is great for entrepreneurs and small businesses who value a vast collection of resources and need support in financial analysis.

Enloop

Source: Screenshot from Enloop

Enloop emerges as one of the best business plan tools for startups, catering to entrepreneurs who crave a streamlined planning process. With the ability to automatically generate basic text for each section of your plan, Enloop saves time and effort in crafting your business vision.

A highlight of the business plan tool is its automatic generation of financial projections, offering accurate insights based on your entered data. This powerful feature empowers entrepreneurs to make informed decisions and project future outcomes with confidence.

For those with a penchant for strategic thinking, Enloop’s “what-if” scenario analysis becomes an invaluable tool. It allows users to explore various business strategies and assess their potential impact on plan outcomes, enabling sound decision-making.

Enloop doesn’t stop at generating numbers; it goes a step further by providing a business plan grading system. This insightful feature assesses plan quality, giving users valuable feedback to refine and enhance their business plans.

However, it’s essential to consider the software’s limitations as customization and design options are relatively limited. Additionally, the basic version of Enloop might not meet the needs of all users, as it lacks certain advanced features. 

  • Seven day free trial (no credit card required)
  • Detailed plan ($19.95/month or $11/month when billed annually)
  • Performance plan ($39.95/month or $24/month when billed annually)

Enloop’s online business plan writing app lets you invite and collaborate with anyone on your business plans using the ‘Invite & Share’ feature.

Enloop allows you to download your business plan in PDF format whenever you’re ready. The plans remain accessible in your paid account, encouraging regular updates to keep track of your business’s health and have an up-to-date plan ready for financing needs.

Suitable for entrepreneurs seeking a tool that simplifies financial forecasting and scenario analysis.

5. PlanGuru

PlanGuru

Source: Screenshot from PlanGuru

PlanGuru’s standout feature lies in its ability to forecast all three financial statements – income statement, balance sheet and cash flow statement so that users can make data-driven decisions.

Creating detailed analyses becomes a breeze with PlanGuru’s general ledger import utilities, allowing seamless historical data import. The software facilitates budget vs actual reporting and enables building rolling forecasts with just a few clicks each month.

Unlimited budgeting flexibility is another advantage offered by the business plan builder. Users can craft simple high-level small business budgets or delve into intricate multi-department operating budgets with ease.

With scenario analysis capabilities, PlanGuru empowers users to interpret the financial impact of specific events accurately. This feature enables making critical investments and strategic decisions with confidence, knowing thorough due diligence has been performed.

Given its sophisticated features, PlanGuru may be more suitable for financial professionals and analysts looking for in-depth financial analysis and budgeting tools. Users not familiar with financial modeling may face a steeper learning curve when utilizing Enloop’s robust capabilities.

  • Single entity ($99/month or $75/month when billed annually)
  • Multi-department consolidations ($299/month or $225/month when billed annually)

You can add up to 3 users with the multi-department consolidation plan. Additionally, all plans allow you to add on $29/month (billed monthly) or $25/month (billed annually) for each extra user.

What other apps does PlanGuru integrate with?

The cloud-based platform is also accessible as a Windows-based desktop version, giving you the freedom to choose the format that suits you best. Additionally, PlanGuru seamlessly integrates with MS Excel, QuickBooks Online and Xero, providing further flexibility and convenience in using the software.

The cloud-based version is suitable for SMBs or nonprofits budgeting for a single entity while the multi-department consolidations plan is for companies with multiple departments needing consolidated budgets.

6. Business Sorter

Business Sorter

Source: Screenshot from Business Sorter

With Business Sorter’s card sort system, crafting the foundation of your plan becomes a breeze. Featuring 273 cards covering various business situations, the business plan generator offers flexibility, allowing users to customize their plan by adding their cards or modifying existing ones, tailoring the plan to their specific needs.

The platform also provides the convenience of viewing your plan on any device, including smartphones, which not many business plan apps have. Additionally, guidance is at hand with Business Sorter as the software provides valuable tips and advice for every key step, empowering users to implement their business strategy with confidence.

While Business Sorter excels in its interactive features, it may not offer as extensive financial analysis tools as other business plan software. For businesses requiring advanced financial modeling capabilities, Business Sorter might not fully meet their requirements.

  • For small teams with up to 3 users ($10/month or $80/year)
  • For medium teams with up to 10 users ($30/month or $240/year)
  • For large teams with up to 30 users ($80/month or $640/year)
  • For enterprises with unlimited users (custom pricing)

Your business plan can be edited by only one user at a time. When a user opens a plan, it automatically locks to prevent any data loss and remains locked until the user finishes their work and exits the plan.

You can print each business plan directly from the plan summaries on your dashboard. 

Suitable for both entrepreneurs and businesses looking for an interactive and visually appealing planning approach.

7. AchieveIt

AchieveIt

Source: Screenshot from AchieveIt

AchieveIt stands as a versatile software for business plans, designed to simplify the planning process for businesses of all sizes and planning methods. With AchieveIt, you can easily build plans, ensuring alignment and engagement among your employees and optimizing plans for seamless execution.

Regardless of your preferred planning method, AchieveIt empowers you to construct plans effortlessly, providing a flexible solution for any planning use case. The software ensures your plans are well-aligned with your organization’s objectives, engaging all team members for successful plan execution.

The business plan tool provides robust tracking and reporting features, allowing businesses to monitor the progress of their plans and measure performance against set goals. Users can create customized dashboards to visualize key performance metrics, making it easier to identify trends and insights.

That said, In comparison to most business plan software, AchieveIt’s pricing might be relatively higher with its extensive features. On top of that, for users new to strategic planning software, AchieveIt may present a learning curve during the initial adoption phase.

The business plan software packages for AchieveIt varies based on factors like organization size, required functionality and the number of users. AchieveIt being an enterprise-level software offers custom pricing to cater to the specific needs of each business. For accurate pricing details, it’s best to contact their sales or customer support team.

AchieveIt allows team members, stakeholders and advisors to have shared access to the platform, providing them with visibility into the latest updates and progress on the plans. Users can assign tasks to team members and track their progress within the platform. 

Can AchieveIt integrate with existing systems?

AchieveIt’s Data Integration API lets you import key metric data from existing systems, saving time and reducing errors by eliminating the need for data entry in multiple places.

AchieveIt is best suited for medium to large-sized businesses and organizations that require a comprehensive and collaborative strategic planning platform. It caters to teams and enterprises seeking to improve their planning processes, track performance and drive organizational alignment to achieve business objectives effectively.

No idea what your business plan should look like? Check out these business plan examples for inspiration. 

business plan builder

When searching for the best business planning software, you may be wondering — what features should I look for in business plan software? You want to make sure it meets your specific requirements and streamlines the planning process effectively. Here are the top six factors to consider:

Ease of use

The software should have a user-friendly interface that simplifies the process of creating a business plan. Look for intuitive navigation, clear instruction and a layout that makes it easy to input and organize your information.

Features and business plan templates

Check the range of features and business plan templates the software offers. Look for a diverse selection of business plan templates catering to various industries and business types. The software should provide essential sections like executive summaries, market analysis, financial projections and more.

business plan builder

Financial modeling tools

Your business plan software should allow you to input financial data and generate accurate and comprehensive financial projections. These business plan creation tools are vital for assessing the financial viability of your business.

Collaboration and sharing

If you’ll be working with a team or seeking feedback from others, consider software that enables real-time collaboration and easy sharing. The ability to work together seamlessly can enhance productivity and improve the quality of your business plan.

Built for fast-moving teams that need to be on the same page, Venngage’s real-time collaboration enables you to polish your design with your team in real time, leave comments on each other’s work,and save your designs in one shared folder. With your  Venngage Business  account, you can easily invite and manage your team members to collaborate on a design, all in real time.

Security and data protection

Since a business plan contains sensitive information, prioritize software that prioritizes security. Ensure that the software uses encryption and data protection measures to keep your data safe from unauthorized access.

Exporting and sharing options

Check the software’s export options. You’ll likely want to share your business plan with others, so ensure it can be exported in popular formats like PDF or PowerPoint.

Are you an entrepreneur starting a new business or expanding your existing business? This guide on how to create a small business plan might come in handy for you. 

business plan builder

Creating business plans can be a crucial step in setting your entrepreneurial vision on the right track. To help you through the process, here are 7 steps to guide you in crafting a comprehensive business plan:

Step 1: Executive summary

Start with an attention-grabbing executive summary. This section provides an overview of your business. In your executive summary, make sure to highlight your mission, goals, products or services, target market and the unique value you offer. Keep it concise, yet compelling.

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Step 2: Company description

Give a detailed description of your company. Explain your business’s history, its legal structure (e.g. sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation) and the reasons why your business will succeed in the market.

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Step 3: Market analysis

Conduct thorough market research to understand your industry, target market and competition. Identify your ideal customers, their needs and preferences. Analyze your competitors and highlight your competitive advantages.

Step 4: Products and Services

Describe your products or services in depth. Explain their features, benefits and how they meet the needs of your target customers. Emphasize what sets your offerings apart from the competition.

business plan builder

Step 5: Marketing and sales strategy

Outline your marketing and sales strategies to reach your target audience. Explain your promotional activities, pricing strategies, distribution channels and sales tactics. Detail how you plan to acquire and retain customers.

Step 6: Financial projections

Project your financial performance over the next three to five years. Include estimated revenue, expenses and cash flow. Detail your startup costs and funding requirements if applicable. Be realistic and supported by market research.

Step 7: Implementation plan

Create a detailed roadmap for executing your business plan. Set specific goals and milestones. Break down tasks and assign responsibilities. Include timelines and a plan for measuring progress.

business plan builder

A great tip here is to start with a well-structured outline. This guide on how to create a business plan outline will help you in creating your blueprint to easily identify your business’ resource needs, including finances, personnel and equipment. 

Is my business data safe with business plan software?

Most reputable business plan software providers prioritize data security and employ encryption and other measures to keep your business data safe from unauthorized access.

What are the benefits of using business planning tools?

Business planning tools offer time efficiency, professional presentation, error reduction, collaborative features and accessibility, making it easier to create a comprehensive business plan that impresses investors and stakeholders.

Do I need any specific skills or expertise to use business plan software?

No, many business plan software solutions are designed to be user-friendly, requiring no specific skills or expertise. They often come with templates and step-by-step guidance to assist you through the planning process.

In the dynamic landscape of 2024, businesses are on the lookout for innovative tools to stay ahead of the curve and drive their growth. These 7 business plan software picks for 2024 offer a wide range of features, from user-friendly interfaces and real-time collaboration to sophisticated financial analysis tools and customizable dashboards.

Whether you’re looking for user-friendly platform business planning tools that aligns with your business planning processes or a business plan writing software that allows you to tailor the business plan according to your industry, goals and unique requirements — I’m quite certain I’ve got them all covered. 

The value of these business plan software options lies not only in their efficiency but also in their ability to save time and reduce errors. By integrating with existing systems through Data Integration APIs, users can seamlessly import key metric data, eliminating redundant data entry and streamlining the process.

If you’re still unsure about which is the right business plan software for your business, you can always take advantage of free trials or video tutorials and demos offered by software providers. Testing the platform firsthand will give you a practical understanding of its usability and suitability for your business.

Simple business plan builder

Easily create a modern business plan that you can export and share with investors and partners

Impress your investors and get funded faster

IdeaBuddy documents all the sections from Business Guide, and uses that information to create a modern business plan, which you can download as a PDF or Word file, or share with others

Instant business plan builder

All the information from Business Guide will be stored in your business plan as you work your way through the steps.

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Handy built-in editor

With our business plan editor you can add and edit text and decide which elements you want to keep or exclude. Make unlimited edits until you get a perfect business plan.

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Create a business plan outline

Select the order of sections and create the perfect business plan outline to sell your idea to investors .

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Do you need assistance with your ideas?

Use customizable templates and industry-based guides

As an addition to the industry guides, editable pre-built templates will help you develop your idea faster 👇

BUSINESS PLAN TEMPLATE

BUSINESS PLAN TEMPLATE

BUSINESS PLAN TEMPLATE

Are you ready to take the leap?

You provide the idea, and we will help you take it to the next level

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Collaborate with others

Put your heads together by inviting your team and mentors to brainstorm with you. Give them access to view or edit your progress directly in IdeaBuddy.

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Export your business plan & financials

You can export your Idea Plan, Financial Plan, or Business plan as a Word document, a PDF, an Excel file, or share a link with your partners and investors.

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Work on your ideas while on the go

Work on your ideas from the palm of your hand. If you are in a meeting or at the beach, you are always prepared for that stroke of genius with our mobile-friendly platform.

What our users say?

Your ideas are in good hands

capterra

Absolutely fascinating. Financial Projections and Business Planning.

“I honestly think it's wonderful. It allows me to look at my overall numbers in a quick and easy format. Plan my business in every aspect from the customer, the products, to market details It's easy to use. Affordable and allows for extensive financial....”

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IdeaBuddy is all the tools I need in one place for my business scope and plan

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How to Start a Homebuilder Company: All Your Questions Answered

Get your building business off the ground with this comprehensive guide

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If you’re considering how to start your own homebuilding company, look no further. Here we share 14 steps to do just that, explaining each in detail. Whether you want to learn how to start a custom homebuilding business or you want to work with more typical designs, this guide will give you a solid foundation for success.

Click one of the links below to jump to the section you’re most interested in:

  • Identify your niche
  • Conduct market research
  • Write a builder business plan
  • Name your building company
  • Decide on a business entity type
  • Register your business
  • Get building licenses and permits
  • Get builder insurance

Set up your business to receive and send funds

  • Get funding
  • Set up your office
  • Build your team
  • Choose homebuilder business software
  • Find your first client

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How to identify your home building niche

The first step in figuring out how to start a housebuilding business is to decide which niche to pursue. This way you can select the types of projects that best suit your skillset and your new business’ goals. There are four main niches:

  • Tract/production: This involves building clusters of homes (dozens to hundreds) in a single neighborhood, typically with a set number of floor plans and design features for buyers to choose from. A model home is often shown to potential buyers, and price is often the deciding factor for buyers.
  • Speculation (aka spec): This involves buying a parcel of land and building a house or houses before finding a buyer. The builder determines the floor plan before breaking ground, but if clients buy in before the work is finished, they might be able to choose finishes and appliances.
  • Custom: This involves working with the client to build a unique home based on his or her wishes and local regulations, with complete flexibility regarding the architecture and features. Custom builders also can do renovations and add-ons. 
  • Luxury: In this sector, the homes are generally custom, given the higher budget. But whether the home is custom or not, the architecture is generally more distinctive than for the typical home, and the finishes, appliances and other elements are high end. Artisans might even be brought in to create show stopping components, such as artful gates, stairway railings and tilework.

Consider also the possible specialties within any of the above categories. “Green” or sustainable construction is popular, as is the kitchen-and-bath niche.

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How to conduct builder market research 

When you’re learning how to start a homebuilding company, it’s imperative to conduct research in certain areas so you’re not just guessing at what clients want and what the local economy and region will support. To make it easier, focus on each area individually. For example:

  • Your intended market (both geographical and in terms of specialty)
  • Competitors
  • The local client base
  • Local building trends

It’s not hard to do this research on your own, thanks to all the resources out there. All you need is a computer and the knowledge of where to look. For instance:

  • The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers lots of information on conducting market research and doing competitive analyses and much more in its Business Guide for general businesses. 
  • The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) offers many resources including info on industry news , economic analyses , and more.
  • The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) lets you search typical salary ranges and other economic info
  • Put out questionnaires and surveys on social media or mailing lists. This is a great way to find out what people really want. You can also join relevant social media groups and get plenty of info without even posting.
  • Do an internet search for “residential construction companies + [your area]” to find competitors. Once you’ve identified them, you can check out their websites and social media to see what types of homes and projects are locally popular and what the typical price ranges are.

Attend industry events and/or search their websites as well as other industry websites for published findings. For instance, Houzz offers a number of regularly updated research reports and IBISWorld offers data on industry trends .

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How to write a homebuilder business plan

A solid builder business plan is essential for long-term success. Not only will it help you shape your goals and make sure you have enough capital to realize them, but bank lenders and investors will want to see it as part of their research. It doesn’t have to be long and complex to be effective, either. And while charts and graphs can be helpful and in conveying info and giving your plan a professional appearance, they aren’t strictly necessary. But your homebuilder business plan should include the following at a minimum:

  • Executive summary: Summarize your business through a bio, goals, and mission statement. Include the niche you chose earlier. This can be just one or two pages. 
  • Company overview: Describe the founder(s), share your values statement and what makes your company different, and specify the type of business entity (we’ll explain that later).
  • Market analysis: Use the research you did in the previous step to show a clear demand and how your company can satisfy it.
  • Business structure: More detail about the type of business entity, including whether there are shareholders, what the organizational layout looks like, and the current or planned number of employees.
  • Products and services descriptions. Will you offer eco-friendly solutions, for example? Will you focus on a certain style of home, such as modern or traditional? You can also include how you’ll charge for your services (lump sum, unit price, or cost plus) and if you have any existing relationships with developers, subcontractors or suppliers.
  • Marketing and sales plan: Include what types of platforms you’ll have a presence on (Houzz is a great one, of course), advertising you’ll be using, any existing email lists, any other ways you’re planning to reach potential clients, and how you’re planning to turn leads into clients.
  • Financial plan: Included projected income and expenses, cash flow forecasts, and any debt obligations (investments, loans, and so on).

Note that the components above are the same whether you’re creating a custom homebuilder business plan or a business plan for a building company that works only with fixed designs.

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How to name a homebuilding business

This is actually often the first thing people wonder when they’re figuring out how to start a homebuilding company. And it’s worth some serious thought, given that a name is important in terms of conveying your identity as well as in branding , creating a memorable customer impression and maximizing your firm’s appearance in internet search results. Your market research will help you come up with a name that will draw clients, and you can either get creative or take a more straightforward approach using just your name and/or the types of projects you’ll be focusing on (for example, Custom Traditional Homes by Carl). Ideally the name should indicate what your business is, but your own full name alone might be fine if you’ve already built a reputation.

Important: Do a trademark search and also a general internet search to make sure you’re not infringing on someone else’s name either legally or informally. Even if a business doesn’t hold official rights to a name, it can cause confusion among customers if you have the same or a similar name.

Feeling stuck or uninspired? Do an internet search for “building business name generator” for ideas.

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What is the best business entity for a homebuilding company?

It’s helpful to consult a tax professional for this, because each entity type has its own tax implications and reporting requirements. However, a sole proprietorship is not recommended, as it exposes you to personal risk (see below).

  • Sole proprietorship: This is the simplest type of business entity, but it offers little protection and no special tax benefits. Your business is under your own name and social security number. If you get sued or owe any debt, your personal assets (home, car, and the like) will be on the line.
  • LLC (limited liability company): You get certain asset protections and can choose to be taxed as a partnership or a corporation. Reporting requirements and tax calculations are generally not too onerous. Note, however, that not all states recognize LLCs.
  • C Corp: The business is a separate taxable entity, and the owners and shareholders have limited liability because of that. It involves several reporting requirements as well as holding regular meetings. One plus is that you can sell stock in the entity to raise capital.
  • S Corp: This is technically a tax status rather than an entity type. So, for instance, your business can be an LLC that’s taxed as an S Corp. It can result in tax savings depending on profit amounts, but also has reporting and other requirements — for example, there must be fewer than 100 shareholders.

As mentioned above, you’ll include the chosen entity type on your builder business plan.

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How to register a homebuilding company

If your company is a sole proprietorship in your own name, this might not be technically necessary, but it’s still important as you’re working out how to start a housebuilding business to register it as a legal entity to get certain liability protections, legal benefits and tax deductions. The registration requirements for a homebuilding company are the same as or similar to the requirements for other types of businesses; for most small businesses, you just need to register your business name with the local and state governments. 

First get a federal tax ID number (TIN) or employer tax ID number (EIN) through the IRS . You’ll need it for paying taxes, hiring staff, opening bank accounts, getting loans and applying for business licenses. 

LLCs registration is handled at the state level, but corporations need to file with the federal government, again through the IRS (see Form 2553 ). Then you also need to register with state and possibly local governments; consult the SBA and local government websites to find out your locale’s requirements.

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How to get builder licenses and permits

If you’re just beginning your research on how to start a homebuilding business, you might not be aware that you need licenses and permits. But they’re 100% necessary! Without them, your business could be subject to fines or other penalties and even closure. Every state has different requirements, so it's important that you check in with your state’s agency as well as know all the building codes for your state and city.

What are permits? Permits are evidence of permission granted at the state and/or local level for, among other things, hauling certain types or sizes of materials, or if your vehicle is overweight or oversize.

What are licenses? Licenses are granted for operating the business itself. In most states, you’ll need at least a general contractor’s license. If you’ll be doing a specialty service such as carpentry, painting, electrical, roofing or HVAC work, you might need a specific license for that as well.

You can check what licenses and permits are needed and apply for them on the SBA website as well on other government websites.

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What insurance does a builder need?

You might be wondering, do builders need insurance? Definitely! Taking out a few kinds of insurance policies not only is often required by the project agreement, but it will help you protect your business in the event of accidents, lawsuits and more. There are four main types to consider:

  • General liability. This covers work-related bodily injury (to subcontractors, clients, vendors etc.) and property damage; the specifics of what’s covered are unique to the particular insurance policy. Note that it does not cover the cost of repairing defective work.
  • Professional liability. This insurance is often taken out by homebuilders who are also architects or engineers, as it protects businesses from financial liability for design issues.
  • Builder’s risk. This is for anyone with a financial interest in the home being built, and it typically covers the property on the jobsite in the event that it is damaged or completely ruined by fire, wind, vandalism, vehicle collisions or other accidents. Some builder’s risk policies also cover construction materials stored at another location.
  • Commercial auto. This is coverage for company-owned vehicles used for work-related purposes, and is similar to what many people carry for their personal autos. It can protect light, medium, and heavy-duty vehicles, and you can take out a policy for just one vehicle or several, as well as add on vehicles personally owned by employees that they use for work.

You might also be required to purchase worker’s compensation insurance, which is helpful to have even if it’s not required; it pays workers in the event that they are injured on the job. Consider also inland marine (aka equipment) insurance, which covers any property that might be moved, including tools and equipment.

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Think about not just how clients will pay you but how you’ll pay vendors, subcontractors and any employees. First you’ll need a dedicated business bank account, which requires a TIN or EIN (see above). Be sure to check any fees that will be charged; most business bank accounts have a minimum monthly service charge, and some charge for every check deposited or financial transfer as well. If you’ll be taking credit card payments, you’ll also need to get set up with a payment processor (tip: Houzz Pro allows you to take both credit card and ACH payments online ).

In addition, decide which billing method(s) your business will use and study up on how to price your construction jobs so you turn a healthy profit.

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How to get funding for a homebuilder business

Funding sources should be included in your builder business plan, and it’s essential to make sure you always have enough working capital to cover the amounts you’ll need to lay out for materials and supplies, office overhead, and payments due until the client pays you. Luckily, there are a number of sources to possibly tap as you figure out how to start a homebuilding company.

SBA and other small business loans. While they can be hard to get and require lots of paperwork, SBA loans are a great option to try for due to their low interest rates and generous terms. Three of the most common are:

  • 7(a) loan program: Up to $5 million, and can be used for a variety of business-related purposes.
  • Microloans: Up to $50,000 and can be repaid over as many as six years.
  • CDC/504 loans: Up to $5.5 million for purchasing fixed assets such as heavy machinery. Can be repaid over 10 or 20 years.

Many lenders both locally and nationwide offer small business loans as well. You can find out about these via internet search; be aware that terms can vary widely.

  • Working capital loans: To cover day-to-day expenses such as office rent and payroll. These include lines of credit through a financial institution. 
  • Vendor financing: Individual vendors may offer short-term financing/payment plans at varying interest rates, generally between 1% and 6%; be sure to read the fine print on the terms of repayment.
  • Equipment loans: For purchasing machinery; the amount loaned must go directly to the cost of the machinery. The equipment’s value serves as collateral, so this is a good option if you have no other collateral or a not-ideal credit score.

Tip: Networking can be a great way to get advice about financing from those who have “been there, done that.” Check out our handy guide to networking in construction for ideas.

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How to set up an office for your homebuilding company

While it might be tempting to save money by working from home, a dedicated office confers an air of legitimacy and acts as a place where you can easily meet clients, investors and others involved in your business. You can also set aside a portion of it for holding material samples, project models and other bulk items. 

  • Pick the best geographical location. Ideally it will be convenient for both you and anyone who visits. Consider your commute time, local traffic and the parking situation.
  • Consider office style. Remember that everything the client sees creates an impression. And if your company focuses on modern housing, for example, setting up in an old Victorian mansion might send mixed messages. Make sure the setting is professional-looking and creates a trustworthy image as well as fits your brand.
  • Research costs. You should account for rent or leasing costs in your builder business plan, and make sure that you can afford them. You might have to trade a favorable location for something that works with your budget.
  • Ensure security. If you’re not in a building with a guard and/or an alarm system, set up your own security system. Keep in mind that while your files might not be worth dollars to a thief, you’ll be working with clients’ sensitive financial information, and it’s worth protecting.
  • Furnish it. At a minimum, you’ll need a desk and chair for you and somewhere else for others to sit, plus a filing cabinet and some general storage. As you might be working on how to start a homebuilding company on a shoestring, check out secondhand stores and local online resale websites such as Craigslist. Add at least a bit of decor too, including any framed certificates of training or printed accolades.
  • Equip it. If you work only on a laptop and use your cell phone, you’ll likely still need a printer, some good task lighting for your desk and perhaps a paper shredder for sensitive documents.

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How to build your team

1. Decide what roles to fill

Your team might be small to start, but you’ll need at least a project manager to oversee the construction and development of the homes; a home dealer, who will handle pre-project client-related tasks such as selling the homes; and the subcontractors who will do the actual work. Aside from those, you’ll likely need to bring some or all of the following on staff or hire them on a freelance basis:

  • Construction foreperson
  • Equipment manager
  • Superintendent
  • Bookkeeper/accountant

2. Interview candidates

Building the right team requires interviewing people thoroughly to make sure they’re:

  • Truly interested
  • Trustworthy
  • A good fit in terms of personality, values and work ethic

See our articles on common construction titles and how to recruit for your team for more info.

3. Keep your employees happy

Job satisfaction is just as important as good pay for many people, so make sure to keep the lines of communication open and listen to what your employees and contractors need. Be flexible when you can and offer opportunities for advancement. See our article on how to retain construction talent for ideas.

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How to choose builder business management software

The right software won’t just make your job easier; it’ll help you organize and follow up with leads, increase the accuracy of all of your calculations, let you easily analyze your business’ finances and keep your clients and team members in the loop. So as you’re working out how to start a homebuilding business, consider that investing in software will pay for itself in the long run. Look for something that can help you with everything from organizing to taking payments. It’s especially important that the software is easy to adopt (that is, it has a low learning curve) and that it includes:

  • Tools for creating takeoffs and estimates
  • Features that promote collaboration
  • Cloud-based storage and other features

The ability to use the software on a mobile device also is essential, so you can work whether you’re in the field or at a desk. For home builder software , you can’t beat Houzz Pro, which has all of these features and capabilities and more. Try it free today to put your new construction business on the path to success!

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How to find your first builder lead

Getting the word out about your new business is mission critical for the long-term success of your business. And even when you start landing clients, you want to keep focusing on bringing in new clients so you always have a steady stream of work. Our guide to getting leads for a residential construction business is a great place to start; it covers digital marketing, networking, getting referrals and more. Also check out our articles dedicated to:

  • Social media marketing
  • Email marketing
  • Advertising
  • Increasing sales

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Conclusion: ‘Should I start a homebuilding company?’

By now you should have a pretty good idea of the answer to that question. Even if you’re excited to get started right away, take some time to think it all through instead of just rushing in. Research all of the next steps involved in the actual work too so that you’re comfortable with what’s required. For instance, learn all about the construction project workflow . And talk with booth new and veteran builders to get their take — there’s no substitute for personal experience!

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Join the conversation by commenting or asking a question below. The Houzz team reads every single comment, and we’ll get back to you by email if you need us!

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Create a form in Word that users can complete or print

In Word, you can create a form that others can fill out and save or print.  To do this, you will start with baseline content in a document, potentially via a form template.  Then you can add content controls for elements such as check boxes, text boxes, date pickers, and drop-down lists. Optionally, these content controls can be linked to database information.  Following are the recommended action steps in sequence.  

Show the Developer tab

In Word, be sure you have the Developer tab displayed in the ribbon.  (See how here:  Show the developer tab .)

Open a template or a blank document on which to base the form

You can start with a template or just start from scratch with a blank document.

Start with a form template

Go to File > New .

In the  Search for online templates  field, type  Forms or the kind of form you want. Then press Enter .

In the displayed results, right-click any item, then select  Create. 

Start with a blank document 

Select Blank document .

Add content to the form

Go to the  Developer  tab Controls section where you can choose controls to add to your document or form. Hover over any icon therein to see what control type it represents. The various control types are described below. You can set properties on a control once it has been inserted.

To delete a content control, right-click it, then select Remove content control  in the pop-up menu. 

Note:  You can print a form that was created via content controls. However, the boxes around the content controls will not print.

Insert a text control

The rich text content control enables users to format text (e.g., bold, italic) and type multiple paragraphs. To limit these capabilities, use the plain text content control . 

Click or tap where you want to insert the control.

Rich text control button

To learn about setting specific properties on these controls, see Set or change properties for content controls .

Insert a picture control

A picture control is most often used for templates, but you can also add a picture control to a form.

Picture control button

Insert a building block control

Use a building block control  when you want users to choose a specific block of text. These are helpful when you need to add different boilerplate text depending on the document's specific purpose. You can create rich text content controls for each version of the boilerplate text, and then use a building block control as the container for the rich text content controls.

building block gallery control

Select Developer and content controls for the building block.

Developer tab showing content controls

Insert a combo box or a drop-down list

In a combo box, users can select from a list of choices that you provide or they can type in their own information. In a drop-down list, users can only select from the list of choices.

combo box button

Select the content control, and then select Properties .

To create a list of choices, select Add under Drop-Down List Properties .

Type a choice in Display Name , such as Yes , No , or Maybe .

Repeat this step until all of the choices are in the drop-down list.

Fill in any other properties that you want.

Note:  If you select the Contents cannot be edited check box, users won’t be able to click a choice.

Insert a date picker

Click or tap where you want to insert the date picker control.

Date picker button

Insert a check box

Click or tap where you want to insert the check box control.

Check box button

Use the legacy form controls

Legacy form controls are for compatibility with older versions of Word and consist of legacy form and Active X controls.

Click or tap where you want to insert a legacy control.

Legacy control button

Select the Legacy Form control or Active X Control that you want to include.

Set or change properties for content controls

Each content control has properties that you can set or change. For example, the Date Picker control offers options for the format you want to use to display the date.

Select the content control that you want to change.

Go to Developer > Properties .

Controls Properties  button

Change the properties that you want.

Add protection to a form

If you want to limit how much others can edit or format a form, use the Restrict Editing command:

Open the form that you want to lock or protect.

Select Developer > Restrict Editing .

Restrict editing button

After selecting restrictions, select Yes, Start Enforcing Protection .

Restrict editing panel

Advanced Tip:

If you want to protect only parts of the document, separate the document into sections and only protect the sections you want.

To do this, choose Select Sections in the Restrict Editing panel. For more info on sections, see Insert a section break .

Sections selector on Resrict sections panel

If the developer tab isn't displayed in the ribbon, see Show the Developer tab .

Open a template or use a blank document

To create a form in Word that others can fill out, start with a template or document and add content controls. Content controls include things like check boxes, text boxes, and drop-down lists. If you’re familiar with databases, these content controls can even be linked to data.

Go to File > New from Template .

New from template option

In Search, type form .

Double-click the template you want to use.

Select File > Save As , and pick a location to save the form.

In Save As , type a file name and then select Save .

Start with a blank document

Go to File > New Document .

New document option

Go to File > Save As .

Go to Developer , and then choose the controls that you want to add to the document or form. To remove a content control, select the control and press Delete. You can set Options on controls once inserted. From Options, you can add entry and exit macros to run when users interact with the controls, as well as list items for combo boxes, .

Adding content controls to your form

In the document, click or tap where you want to add a content control.

On Developer , select Text Box , Check Box , or Combo Box .

Developer tab with content controls

To set specific properties for the control, select Options , and set .

Repeat steps 1 through 3 for each control that you want to add.

Set options

Options let you set common settings, as well as control specific settings. Select a control and then select Options to set up or make changes.

Set common properties.

Select Macro to Run on lets you choose a recorded or custom macro to run on Entry or Exit from the field.

Bookmark Set a unique name or bookmark for each control.

Calculate on exit This forces Word to run or refresh any calculations, such as total price when the user exits the field.

Add Help Text Give hints or instructions for each field.

OK Saves settings and exits the panel.

Cancel Forgets changes and exits the panel.

Set specific properties for a Text box

Type Select form Regular text, Number, Date, Current Date, Current Time, or Calculation.

Default text sets optional instructional text that's displayed in the text box before the user types in the field. Set Text box enabled to allow the user to enter text into the field.

Maximum length sets the length of text that a user can enter. The default is Unlimited .

Text format can set whether text automatically formats to Uppercase , Lowercase , First capital, or Title case .

Text box enabled Lets the user enter text into a field. If there is default text, user text replaces it.

Set specific properties for a Check box .

Default Value Choose between Not checked or checked as default.

Checkbox size Set a size Exactly or Auto to change size as needed.

Check box enabled Lets the user check or clear the text box.

Set specific properties for a Combo box

Drop-down item Type in strings for the list box items. Press + or Enter to add an item to the list.

Items in drop-down list Shows your current list. Select an item and use the up or down arrows to change the order, Press - to remove a selected item.

Drop-down enabled Lets the user open the combo box and make selections.

Protect the form

Go to Developer > Protect Form .

Protect form button on the Developer tab

Note:  To unprotect the form and continue editing, select Protect Form again.

Save and close the form.

Test the form (optional)

If you want, you can test the form before you distribute it.

Protect the form.

Reopen the form, fill it out as the user would, and then save a copy.

Creating fillable forms isn’t available in Word for the web.

You can create the form with the desktop version of Word with the instructions in Create a fillable form .

When you save the document and reopen it in Word for the web, you’ll see the changes you made.

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8 Innovations that Will Change Construction As We Know It

construction innovations shape the future of the industry

Construction innovations are progressing rapidly, and the industry now has a tremendous amount of resources to advance construction technology. Construction tech funding hit a record high of $2.1 billion in 2021 —a 100% increase from the year before. 

These investments in innovations pay off significantly; research shows that firms that are rated as “digitally savvy” outperform companies by as much as 48% on revenue and 15% on net margin. And this is true across many fields, including AEC.  

There’s never been a more exciting time to be a part of the construction industry. As it continues to change at an accelerated pace, innovations will bring about even more developments and advancements. Here are 8 innovations we believe will shape the future of the industry as we know it today.

Watch more:

The Rise of Construction Tech: What Every Organization Must Embrace

1. AI and Machine Learning for Construction Workflows

Optimized workflows are essential to well-running projects and teams in the AEC industry. However, due to the complexity of construction, workflows have the tendency to be disconnected and manual in nature. The three most significant areas within optimized construction workflows are communication, data, and transparency. AI is making it easier to succeed across all three of these areas, resulting in greater productivity and profits. The fact that Accenture proclaimed AI has the potential to increase industry profits by 71% by 2035 doesn’t hurt either. 

Machine learning is also helping construction pros optimize their workflows and aid decision-making. Predictive analytics is quickly establishing its foothold in the construction industry’s core stack of technology tools. By leveraging current and historical data as well as machine learning, companies can make predictions about future outcomes. These predictions can then be used to make more informed decisions and strategize next moves.

Predictive analytics and machine learning are especially valuable in today’s world of complex construction projects and operations. Companies need a precise way to mitigate risks, take advantage of opportunities, and prepare for challenges. This information also gives workers the freedom to focus on higher-value activities that are more likely to move the needle. 

BAM Ireland is an excellent example of this benefit. The multinational construction company leveraged Construction IQ as its predictive analytics tool for all projects. Doing so led to a 20% improvement in on-site quality and safety and a 25% increase in time spent on high-risk issues.

Pype ’s Smart Plans leverages AI to manage core construction documents, including spec books and submittals. The software platform reads through these unstructured drawings to extract contract compliance items, ensuring no requirements are left behind.

AI and machine learning can also increase safety at construction sites by automating safety observations and inspections. Josh Kanner, Founder and CEO of Newmetrix, says that construction pros can utilize these technologies to create computer vision models that can identify safety issues. 

“You don’t need to have people walking around, you can actually have the machine help you understand what those scenarios are. So now you’re able to get hundreds of additional observations a week, and thousands a year,” says Josh .

Newmetrix’s product, Vinnie , makes use of AI to ensure safety protocols are met on jobsites. The construction innovation can identify potential safety hazards, missing PPE on workers, social distancing infractions, work at height, and more. The ability to analyze risks within their context allows construction firms to mitigate risks quickly and generate customizable reports on set benchmarks.

Josh talks more about these innovations on the Digital Builder podcast. Check out the episode here . 

2. Resource and Workforce Management Software

Managing resources and a workforce are massive expenses for construction companies. Effective workforce management can help companies keep operations running smoothly, optimize resource allocation, and avoid unexpected expenses as well as delays.

Today, more companies are turning to software platforms to bring more efficiency and actionable analytics to their workforce, whether they be remote, on-site, large, or small.

Construction innovations in workforce management solutions include predictive tracking, forecasting, and mobile-first interfaces. These solutions remove many of the manual processes that come with resource planning.

For instance, Bridgit Bench , a resource management tool built for the construction industry , integrates optimization and agility into a dynamic planning process. Eyrus , a jobsite intelligence tool, ensures workers are deployed where needed at the right time, as well as tracks progress across key areas of projects. Meanwhile, the labor management solution Triax uses IoT technology and connected devices to provide real-time tracking of workers, equipment, and other resources that you have on the jobsite. 

Solutions like these allow companies to access metrics and forecasting analytics to better allocate resources to the right projects at the right time. Workforce management solutions are especially important in our current economy, where volatile markets require firms to be as precise and efficient in their operations as possible.

3. The Next Wave of 3D Printing

You probably aren’t surprised to see 3D printing on this list. After all, it has long been cited as one of the top construction innovations. However, its future is even brighter these days as the technology moves from a novelty to an emerging industry standard.

With the right implementation strategy—and some creative thinking—3D printing can help speed up projects, make materials more accessible, and enable you to create beautiful designs. 

As Stephan Mansour, a 3D Printing & Emerging Technology Advisor at MaRiTama Ltd points out , “Everything can be 3D-printed; it’s just a matter of how far you want to go, how scalable it is, and how much money you’re going to put in.”

In terms of use cases, you can 3D print design elements like facades to make them more intricate and detailed. 3D printing can also be used to print parts, fixtures, and furniture for your building. This is particularly useful when you’re dealing with supply shortages or when you’re working in a remote area. Rather than waiting weeks or months for the materials you need, you can print them within a few hours or days.

We can expect to see 3D printing technologies continue to mature and grow in the future. As companies look for ways to improve quality control, address skilled labor shortages, and explore advanced designs, 3D printing will be here to help them make it a success.

4. AR, VR, and the Metaverse

We’ve all heard of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). VR immerses us completely into the digital world, while AR brings digital elements to our surroundings in real time. Immersive reality combines these two realms into one world—which is where the metaverse comes in. 

The metaverse is an iteration of the internet that allows users to experience it like the real world. This is made possible with gadgets such as AR glasses and VR headsets. These devices, as The Wild explains , allows the metaverse to move “content from the internet into 3D immersive environments that can be shared and interacted with by multiple users (often taking physical form as avatars.)”

Immersive reality brings real benefits to businesses, particularly those that rely on cross-departmental collaboration to get things done. It allows teams to “meet” in the metaverse so they can interface in a rich, virtual environment—something that isn’t possible when you’re behind a computer screen.

What’s more, platforms like The Wild and IrisVR can integrate with construction tools such as Revit and Autodesk Construction Cloud solutions. This enables teams to access these applications in a shared space so they can collaborate in real-time. 

Because of these use cases, it makes sense then that the technology is making waves in the construction industry. 

5. Sensor Data

Tracking the various components of your business—including manpower, job sites, and equipment—is essential. Proper monitoring aids project planning, promotes smoother operations, and ensures compliance with safety and worker regulations. 

Here’s the good news: thanks to construction sensors and IoT technology, keeping an eye on the many moving parts of your projects is easier than ever. There are various solutions in the market that can enable you to monitor site conditions, track materials through the supply chain, improve worker safety, and empower better facility management.

Forward-thinking firms are also using sensors to forecast and prepare for future events. “With the use of sensor data and Forge as a software foundation, we are able to predict future product failures,” explains Chris Schoneveld, BIM Manager at Alkondor Hengelo . 

“So for a maintenance task, we could analyse the use curve of a building and protect our products against future failures. And doing multiple tasks on a single maintenance job benefits our company’s eco footprint due to a minimization of traffic movement.”

6. Digital Twins

Digital twins is certainly a buzzworthy term, but what benefit does it have for the construction industry? As it sounds, a digital twin is a digital replica of a physical entity, including its potential and current assets, systems, data, processes, workflows, people, and devices. In the context of construction, digital twins gather data through sensors to better understand a physical structure and then create its duplicate.

Having a duplicate source of a physical structure allows workers to assess, manipulate, and optimize the building. As they analyze the digital twin, they can uncover potential means of creating efficiencies, developing safety protocols, reducing risks, and improving quality. Digital twins also enhance BIM by serving as a digital thread, connected directly to a physical structure.

Since almost 80% of a building’s lifetime value is realized during operations , the data and insights provided by a digital twin helps owners better maintain their facilities, streamline operations, and improve capital planning. 

You can also use digital twins to determine if a built asset is meeting certain KPIs and metrics. “If you have certain sustainable goals, you’ll be able to see if you’re achieving them. If you have equipment and want to measure mean time between failure, having a digital twin helps you do that,” explains Bob Bray, Senior Director & General Manager for Autodesk Tandem .

It can also help owners strategize for the future. As Bob points out, “A digital twin gives you the knowledge to inform, predict, and look at future decisions based on how that asset is performing in the real world.” 

Lastly, the advantages of digital twins are especially relevant during times of social distancing, remote work, and travel restrictions. Essential information about a property is readily accessible with a digital twin, avoiding the need to travel or even leave a home office.

To learn more about digital twins, check out Episode 16 of Digital Builder.  

7. Truly Connected Construction

Simplicity in construction? It might not be a buzzword, but we’d argue that simplicity is the lifeblood of the most powerful of innovations. When data, workflows, and technology connect, they’re all the more powerful. Apple is a key example of this fact. The same information flows seamlessly between the company’s iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks. These harmonious connections keep things simple and effective.

We see the same concepts play out in connected construction. Construction companies often have to deal with information silos and paper-dependent processes. These challenges are exacerbated by the massive volumes of data and resources that make up the industry. For stakeholders to work efficiently on projects, they need a solid foundation, a single source of truth.

This foundation can be built and maintained with connected construction. Connected construction equates to integrated and connected data, workflows, and technology. It brings information, processes, and people together in one common data environment . It powers effective decision-making, whether they occur during daily operations or as part of a long-term strategic plan. For companies that genuinely want to empower their people to make the most informed decisions possible, connected construction is the answer. 

8. Advanced Takeoff and Estimating Tools

The days of putting together quantity takeoffs and estimates using spreadsheets are over. Or at least, they should be. The rise of advanced takeoff and estimating tools are helping construction pros implement these processes more efficiently and with greater accuracy. 

Modern takeoff and estimating solutions work in the cloud, enabling you view and manage bids from anywhere. These tools also help connect data and teams on one platform, leading to better collaboration. And thanks to automation and 3D visualization, you’re able to work faster, produce competitive bids, and ultimately win more work

Autodesk Takeoff is one helpful tool to create competitive bids from accurate estimates. Another tool, BuildingConnected centralizes all bidding activity and offers collaboration tools like shared calendars to help your team stay on top of bids. It’s easier to stay on top of project files, key dates, and stakeholders so you can ensure that no detail slips through the cracks. 

Moving Innovation in Construction Forward

The construction industry is truly evolving right in front of our eyes. We’re confident these 8 construction innovations will prove to be especially valuable in the industry today and in the future.

Grace Ellis

Construction trends, tips, and news – delivered straight to your inbox, you might like..., demystifying autodesk technology: unlocking efficiency for factory planning and factory design, using digital technology for project success in denmark’s construction sector, less guesswork, more confidence: how to make better decisions in construction .

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Shopify pricing in 2024: Is it worth the cost?

Sierra Campbell

Sierra Campbell

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

Published 7:26 a.m. UTC Feb. 15, 2024

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Delmaine Donson, Getty Images

Choosing the right provider to host your online store is vital to its overall growth and success. Shopify is a popular e-commerce platform and website builder that offers customers a multifunctional digital retail solution and also allows access to a user-friendly payment processing system. The company has several plans available to accommodate any size operation and budget. 

We’ve put together a Shopify pricing guide that highlights the fees and key features of each option so you can determine if it’s worth the investment for your business.

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Who is Shopify best for?

Shopify was started with the primary intention of providing a simplified way for businesses to improve their Internet sales. However, it’s evolved over the years into a comprehensive tool for entrepreneurs looking to sell, market and manage their products both online and out of brick-and-mortar locations. 

The platform is suitable for beginners without much technical knowledge and experienced e-commerce merchants alike. However, it’s generally recommended for start-ups and small businesses that don’t require complex programming. It also tends to be a better option for businesses that focus on selling products instead of services since appointment booking isn’t a standard feature.

Shopify pricing overview

Shopify has three main e-commerce plans businesses can choose from as well as a Starter plan for those mostly interested in selling on social media. The platform also supports business growth with its scalability, allowing customers to add various features and functionalities as their operations expand. 

Each pricing plan offers a variety of features to meet different business needs. Some of those included in all plans are unlimited product listings, unlimited bandwidth, analytics and 24/7 customer support. 

At just $5 per month, the Shopify Starter plan is designed for merchants who are just getting started in the digital retail landscape. This low price allows businesses to see how well they can sell products or services online without much investment. 

With this plan, products can be shared across social networks and directly linked to Shopify for a secure checkout. Merchants have access to order management tools and fully branded pages through the Spotlight theme. 

The Starter plan also comes with Linkpop, giving businesses the option to sell directly from their link-in-bio page, as well as a mobile point-of-sale (POS) so transactions can take place in person from any location.

Shopify’s Basic plan is meant for individual entrepreneurs and small businesses. This tier is where merchants can begin developing a standalone online store, which is customizable with the built-in theme editor. 

It also includes blogging functionality, basic reporting, international commerce support and a POS system for brick-and-mortar locations. In addition, businesses receive e-commerce automation, fraud analysis when using Shopify Payments, the ability to sell gift cards and a shipping discount of up to 77%.

The Shopify plan is for businesses that need a bit more e-commerce functionality. Along with everything in the Basic plan, it includes more detailed data reports and increases the number of staff accounts provided. Credit card processing fees are also reduced, and shipping discounts go up to 88%. Merchants get shipping insurance coverage as well. 

Medium to large businesses with heavy online traffic and sales can benefit from the Shopify Advanced plan. Aside from all the features in the lower tier plans, users may take advantage of customized reporting, 15 staff accounts and third-party calculated shipping rates. This plan also has the lowest processing fees and allows merchants to collect duties and import taxes for international transactions.

Additional costs

It’s important to note that merchants using a third-party payment provider instead of Shopify Payments will be charged an additional processing fee. This is 2% for the Basic plan, 1% for the Shopify plan and 0.5% for the Advanced plan. 

Other costs to consider when working with the Shopify platform are domain names, themes and apps. Domains can be purchased through Shopify, and the price will depend on the keywords and extensions chosen. Though many Shopify themes are free, upgrading to a premium option will cost between $140 and $400. To enhance a store’s functionality, Shopify offers more than 8,000 free and paid apps at a wide range of prices.

Also, Shopify has two alternative plans available that cater to more established businesses. 

  • Retail: For $89 a month, retail businesses will receive a basic online store, two staff accounts, unlimited POS logins and POS Pro software for one location, which allows fully integrated payments.
  • Shopify Plus: With a starting price of $2,000 per month, Shopify Plus provides exclusive features for businesses that see a high volume of sales. These include Organization Settings, unlimited staff accounts, customizable checkout and advanced apps and integrations. Merchants also get free web hosting and the lowest transaction fees available from any plan. 

Bottom line: Is Shopify worth it?

Shopify is highly regarded as a reliable and powerful e-commerce platform. It offers a variety of plans at different price points and an assortment of features suitable for all merchant levels. 

These aspects make it worth the price for any entrepreneur who’s serious about achieving success as an online retailer. This is especially true for those willing to use Shopify Payments, as doing so will eliminate the extra transaction fees. 

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Shopify costs are dependent on the plan and customization options selected. Businesses can begin selling online for as little as $5 per month with the Starter plan or pay over $2,000 per month for the Shopify Plus plan. From there, prices will increase when purchasing domains, premium themes and premium apps.

Businesses that have a higher volume of sales may find it costs less to host their online store with Shopify than through Etsy. Although Etsy users are able to build a customized website for just $15 per month, the platform’s listing and payment processing fees can add up quickly. 

Whereas Shopify allows unlimited product listings with each of its plans, Etsy charges $0.20 per listing and $0.20 to renew every four months. Additionally, third-party transaction fees are 6.5% of the sale price, which is quite a bit more than Shopify’s 0.5% to 2%.

Whether or not merchants are obligated to obtain a business license for selling on Shopify will depend on their location and industry. State and local requirements vary, but it’s common to need a license or permit when selling tangible products. Even if it’s not required, being licensed helps to give a business credibility and provides protection against potential legal problems.

Shopify takes a percentage of each sale made through its payment processing fees. This amount is based on the specific plan a merchant chooses. For the Starter plan, it’s 5% plus $0.30 per online transaction and 5% per in-person transaction. The Basic plan charges 2.9% plus $0.30 for online transactions and 2.7% for in-person transactions. 

The Shopify plan fees for online payments are 2.6% plus $0.30 and 2.5% in person. Fees for the Advanced plan are 2.4% plus $0.30 online and 2.4% in person. Additionally, third-party transaction fees apply if Shopify Payments isn’t being used, which ranges from 0.5% to 2%.

Merchants who are required to charge sales tax can set up their Shopify account to automatically calculate and collect these fees. This is done following a few simple steps in the admin settings. 

However, U.S. businesses can also integrate the Shopify Tax tool for extra help. It’s designed to simplify sales tax collection by tracking sales, filing reports and calculating the correct tax rates according to location and product.

How a merchant gets paid is based on which provider the customer uses to make a purchase. For example, when transactions are processed through Shopify Payments, Apple Pay, Meta Pay, Google Pay or Shop Pay, the funds get transferred from Shopify Payments to the business’s bank account on file. 

Transactions made through Amazon or PayPal will be transferred from those providers directly. For Shopify Payments, payouts are received as specified by each merchant’s pay period.

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.

Gina Ponce

Gina Ponce has more than a decade of experience in journalism and copywriting. She is committed to providing readers with useful and engaging content on a wide range of topics. Her work has been featured on several online blogs and in various print publications.

Sierra Campbell is a small business editor for USA Today Blueprint. She specializes in writing, editing and fact-checking content centered around helping businesses. She has worked as a digital content and show producer for several local TV stations, an editor for U.S. News & World Report and a freelance writer and editor for many companies. Sierra prides herself in delivering accurate and up-to-date information to readers. Her expertise includes credit card processing companies, e-commerce platforms, payroll software, accounting software and virtual private networks (VPNs). She also owns Editing by Sierra, where she offers editing services to writers of all backgrounds, including self-published and traditionally published authors.

How to start a small business: A step-by-step guide

How to start a small business: A step-by-step guide

Business Eric Rosenberg

IMAGES

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    Startups/New Businesses Any new business, especially startups, need a business plan. The document is an essential tool to identify need and address uncertainty (e.g. sales projections, operating costs, expense budgets, etc.). Framework of a Startup's Business Plan: The "Big Picture": Your business plan should address two big questions: why and how?

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  26. 8 Innovations that Will Change Construction

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