The 3-Step Business Plan You Can Write in 30 Minutes

 Most people think writing a business plan requires weeks of research, a finance background, and 75 pages of charts. It doesn’t. Here’s how to get started in the time it takes to drink your morning coffee.

Stop Overthinking It

When one aspiring entrepreneur came to his SCORE mentor with a 75-page business plan generated by ChatGPT, the mentor spent an hour and a half reading it — and found almost no substance. Pages of words, but none of the person’s heart, reasoning, or actual vision.

A great business plan isn’t long. It’s clear. And you can start with just three questions.

Step 1: Write Down Your Goal

What problem are you solving, and for whom? Be specific. "I want to help HR departments use AI tools to streamline compensation decisions" is better than "I want to start a tech company." "I coach women through seven life pillars — relationships, career, faith, and more" is better than "I want to be a life coach."

Aim for 75 words or fewer. If it takes you more than 40 seconds to say out loud, it’s too long. Think elevator pitch: clear, specific, and memorable.

Step 2: List What You Can Put In

Every business requires something. What do you have to bring to the table? Think about:

•       Time — how many hours per week can you dedicate?

•       Money — your own savings or access to startup funds

•       Equipment, tools, or skills you already own

•       Credentials or training that set you apart

You don’t need everything. You just need to know what you’re starting with.

Step 3: Identify Who Can Help You

No entrepreneur succeeds alone. Your support network might include a mentor through SCORE (free, funded by the SBA), your banker or accountant, members of your church or community, or even just a trusted friend who will hold you accountable.

One entrepreneur I mentored needed $600,000 to purchase land for affordable housing. She didn’t go to a bank first — she went to a pastor she knew, who advanced her the funds. Your network is often more powerful than you realize.

Your Homework

Grab a pen or open your notes app. Write your goal, list your resources, and name three people who can support you. That’s it. That’s your first business plan — and it’s more than most people ever write down.

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