Executive Summary
​
A business plan should cover all the key information that investors and stakeholders need. While the length may vary based on the business, it's best to keep it clear and straightforward, without focusing on a specific page count. If you have additional important details, like patent applications, mention them in the main plan and include them in the appendix.
​The executive summary is the first section of your business plan and serves as a powerful introduction. It provides a quick, engaging overview of your business, capturing key details in a concise and compelling way. Think of it as your business’s elevator pitch—designed to grab attention and spark interest. Ideall ,Executive summary should be one to two pages, and should cover:
​
-
​What problem you solve: Explain the issue your business addresses.
-
Your solution: Describe your product or service.
-
Your customers: Who are you selling to?
-
Your team: Who is behind your business?
-
Your finances: A brief overview of your financial goals.
-
How much money you need: If you’re looking for investors, state how much money you need.
​
The executive summary is often the only part of the business plan that investors read before deciding whether to explore your proposal further. Hence, your goal is to make a strong first impression. Write clearly and simply. Use easy-to-understand language. Imagine you’re explaining your business to a friend. Keep it focused and avoid unnecessary details.
While it’s the first part of your plan, it’s often the last part you write. This is because you’ll have a better understanding of your business after completing the rest of your plan.