One of the most important first steps you can take as a business owner is to make sure you complete a business plan. A business plan allows you to focus on why you are in business, develops key goals and action plans, allows you to find your niche market and create a marketing plan around it, as well as prepare for challenges and opportunities your business will face in the future. Another key aspect is it helps you to understand the financial resources you will need to sustain it, and helps you optimize the business’ growth and development.

Below please find the resources you need to get moving on your business plan. If you have any questions, or need help, please don’t hesitate to call us at 970-731-1443, or email us at mtech@centurytel.net.

There are 4 options to creating your business plan:
1). Create it yourself using the website resources and files listed below
2). Take the NxLevelTM Leading Edge Entrepreneurial course
3). Call the AEDA for one on one mentoring, and help completing your plan.
4). Purchase the Business Plan Pro software, which is a step by step guide to completing your business plan.

1). Website Resources:
BPlans website
SCORE website
Fort Lewis College Small Business Development Center website
SBA website
SBA Small Business Planner website
Small Business Plan Guide website
Missouri SBDC website
Missouri SBDC Business Plan Guide file (PDF)
SBDC Business Plan Self-Guide Template File (PDF)

Sample Business Plan Resources:
BPlans Sample Plans website
SBA Sample Business Plans website
Entrepreneur.com Business plans

2). NxLevelTM Leading Edge Entrepreneurial Course
The NxLevelTM Leading Edge training course is a 12 week intensive training program designed to encourage business startup and expansion in a community. The course focuses on teaching the art of better business practices, while producing a comprehensive business plan to guide business startup and expansion decisions. Call the AEDA at 970-731-1443 or check out our Upcoming Events page for timing and registration information.

3). One on One Counseling
Call the AEDA for one on one confidential counseling, and a step by step guide to developing your business plan. 970-731-1443

4). Purchase Business Plan Pro software
The AEDA and the Fort Lewis SBDC recommend Business Plan Pro software if you desire to try and write your business plan. Both organizations have purchased this software, and can help you with the creation of your plan as you move through the process. You can find this software at the following website: PaloAltoSoftware

AEDA Featured Member :
	Bank of Colorado - Pagosa Springs Branch 205 Country Center Drive Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 Phone: 970-731-4166 Fax : 970-731-9126 http://www.bankofcolorado.com