Thinking about starting a home business? Do you already own a home business but need cash? Perhaps you can qualify for a small business loan.However, before you attempt to borrow any money, you first have to figure out how much money you need. The easiest way to do this is by putting together a business plan. A good business plan is critical to your business success.
It can be a simple one page outline or it can be many pages, but it should spell out exactly how much money is needed and what it will be used for; your potential market and customers and potential for growth; what makes your business unique from others; and a rational and conservative projection of your business's cash flow.
Your plan will also help you set business goals and define 
steps necessary to help you reach those goals. It is a guide for you to refer to on a regular basis to help evaluate your business progress and help keep you focused on your priorities.
Besides, a business plan is almost always required when applying for a bank loan. If you need assistance in writing a business plan, your local library should have several books on subject. You can also try Amazon.com. In addition, you should be able to get help on writing a business plan from one or more of sources listed below:
1. The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers numerous loan programs to assist small businesses. It is important to note, however, that SBA is primarily a guarantor of loans made by private and other institutions.
http://www.sba.gov
2. The Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) is a volunteer management assistance program of SBA that provides one-on-one counseling, workshops, and seminars. SCORE has chapters throughout country. Many work in conjunction with local Chambers of Commerce. SCORE and Visa have also joined forces to help home-based and small business owners. Contact your SBA office, local Chamber of Commerce, or following websites for more information:
