Step-by-step advice on preparing a business plan  You need a sound business plan to start a business or raise money to expand an existing one. For over 30 years, 
How to Write a Business Plan has helped fledgling entrepreneurs―from small service businesses and retailers to large manufacturing firms―write winning plans and get needed financing. 
 This bestselling book contains clear step-by-step instructions and forms to put together a convincing business plan with realistic financial projections, effective marketing strategies, and overall business goals. You’ll learn how to: 
 -  figure out if your business idea will make money 
-  determine and forecast cash flow 
-  create profit and loss forecasts 
-  prepare marketing and personnel plans 
-  find potential sources of financing, and 
-  present your well-organized plan to lenders and other backers. 
 
 The 13th edition is updated to reflect best practices for raising money (from SBA loans to equity crowdfunding).