Where to Learn Business Plan or Model Building: A Comprehensive Guide

Crafting a strong business plan or model is a critical skill for any entrepreneur aiming to establish and expand a thriving company. However, for those new to this process, knowing where to start can be overwhelming.

Introduction to Essential Resources

The good news is that there are numerous high-quality resources available to help you get started. Whether you prefer in-person guidance, online courses, or practical books, there is a wealth of information tailored to your needs.

Local Resources for Education

Begin your journey by exploring local startup accelerators or small business development centers. These organizations offer seminars, workshops, and mentoring sessions that focus on business planning techniques. Many provide free or low-cost options, making them accessible to anyone looking to learn the fundamentals.

Books and Step-by-Step Guides

For those who prefer to learn from books, there are several top-tier resources available. For example, Business Model Generation by Alexander Osterwalder and The Lean Startup by Eric Ries are renowned for their detailed guidance on building and testing business models. These books offer comprehensive, step-by-step processes that cater to all skill levels.

Online Courses for Skill Development

Online platforms like Udemy and LinkedIn Learning offer a wide range of courses specifically designed for business planning. I highly recommend looking for instructor-led courses, as these provide hands-on guidance and feedback, which are invaluable when honing your skills.

University Class Offerings

Many universities provide open enrollment classes that focus on entrepreneurship and business planning. These courses, while often requiring a fee, can be very rewarding. Consider auditing a class or enrolling in one to gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. This experience can be a pivotal step in your entrepreneurial journey.

Expert Coaching and Mentorship

Working with an experienced business planner can be highly beneficial. Expert writers and consultants, such as myself, can offer personalized coaching and feedback. This one-on-one interaction is invaluable for those seeking to refine their business plans and models.

Planning Software for Tutorials

Planning software like Upmetrics is another excellent resource. It offers built-in tutorials that walk you through the components of an effective business plan. These tutorials are particularly useful as you progress through the planning process.

Leverage Sample Plans for Inspiration

One of the most effective ways to learn is by reviewing sample business plans. Many organizations and individuals publish sample plans online, providing insights into best practices. By studying these examples, you can gain valuable inspiration and learn from the successes (and sometimes the failures) of others.

Additional Resources for Further Learning

I personally take pride in the extensive resources available at Bplans. Launched in 1995, Bplans has a team of experts continuously updating the platform. It is a treasure trove of articles, with new content posted almost every working day. The interface is designed to make navigation easy, allowing you to start at the top and drill down into detailed articles. All of the content is free, although Bplans does suggest its business plan software for purchase.

Beyond Bplans, my latest book, Lean Business Planning, is available for free on the web. This book, along with numerous additional sections, is entirely accessible online. While you can purchase the book or the online course, you don't have to—you can read the entire book and extra content for free. This comprehensive resource is the result of years of expertise and can be incredibly valuable for anyone looking to improve their business planning skills.

Disclosure: I am the founder of Palo Alto Software, Bplans, and the author of Lean Business Planning.