By Palo Alto Software, Inc. A common problem people encounter when writing their business plan is finding information about their business industry and competitive companies. Fortunately, in recent years the Internet has made information gathering simple and easy, but sometimes the best information is found much closer to home, with real people, in real time. Always take a look at other businesses... 

Courtesy of Palo Alto Software, Inc. The best way to show bankers, venture capitalists, and angel investors that you are worthy of financial support is to show them a great business plan. Make sure that your plan is clear, focused and realistic. Then show them that you have the tools, talent and team to make it happen. Your business plan is like your calling card, it will get you in the door where... 

Your business model A business model is a fancy word for “How are you going to make money?” Do not ignore the money part. Raising capital has a lot to do with the money part. An exit strategy When can the investor expect to get his money back. Is the management going to buy back its shares (ownership in the company) or is there going to be an IPO or are you going to sell the business and cash... 

The executive summary of a business plan is a summary of your business plan. It is not just any summary but it is the highlights of your entire business plan. Most times, investors will want to take a look at your executive summary before they even look into your business plan. If your executive summary does not catch the investor’s attention then most times investors won’t even look into the...