The executive summary is one of the most important parts of your business plan. It’s the first thing potential investors will read, and it’s your chance to make a good first impression.
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Here’s how to write an executive summary that will get your business plan noticed.
Keep it short
Your executive summary should be no more than two pages long, with a clear and concise description of your business. Keep the language simple and avoid using jargon.
Start with a summary of your business
Begin your executive summary with a brief overview of your business. Include your business name, location, and contact information, as well as a brief description of your products or services.
Describe your target market
In the next section of your executive summary, describe your target market. Who are your customers? What needs does your product or service meet? How will your product or service appeal to your target market?
Outline your business goals
What are your long-term and short-term business goals? How will your product or service help you achieve these goals? Be specific and include measurable goals, such as increasing sales by 20% within the first year.
Describe your competitive advantage
What sets your business apart from your competitors? What unique selling points do you have? Why should potential investors choose your business over others in your industry?
Summarize your financial information
If you’re seeking funding, include information on your financial needs and how you plan to use the funds. You can also include information on your past financial performance, such as sales figures or funding received to date.
Include your management team
Investors will want to know who is leading your business. Include information on your management team, their experience, and their role in your company.
Describe your business model
How does your business make money? What are your revenue streams? What are your costs? How will your business scale? Answering these questions will give potential investors a better understanding of your business.
Provide an overview of your marketing strategy
How will you market your product or service? What channels will you use? What are your marketing objectives? Outlining your marketing strategy will give potential investors a sense of how you plan to grow your business.
Conclude with a call to action
End your executive summary with a call to action. What do you want potential investors to do after reading your business plan? Do you want them to contact you? Visit your website? Invest in your business? Be clear and concise in your call to action.
Writing an effective executive summary is essential if you want to get your business noticed. By following the tips above, you can create an executive summary that will make a positive first impression on potential investors.
