Best Business Plan Software

Always rated among the top three contenders in all business plan software reviews online, LivePlan is one of the most popular planning apps on the web. The software has an overall performance suitable for both small business enthusiasts and already established entrepreneurs.

Templates

LivePlan offers a variety of 500 templates, covering all possible business models. It provides customized solutions to clients whether they be a small business, accounting operation, consulting or an educational enterprise. The step-by-step process varies, depending on which version you chose.

After you fill in your company’s ID,  LivePlan guides you through a number of other forms. 

You then write a compelling narrative that describes your products and services along with the target market. This includes your envisioned strategy and implementation, personnel and financial plans as well as  standard accounting statements.

Price

The annual package comes tagged with a price of $15/month, making LivePlan one of the most affordable options on the list. Users can also opt for a six-month plan, priced at $18/month. Additionally, there’s the pay-as-you-go solution that will set you back $20/month. 

The company offers a free trial period so you can test some of its features and see how it suits your needs. To activate the free trial option, all you need to do is fill in a questionnaire.

The company will quickly process your application and send you the trial version. 

If you decide to purchase LivePlan but find it doesn’t get the job done, you can get a full refund within the first 60 days.

Interface

The software features an intuitive interface, making the process of assembling a business plan easy and enjoyable. The design is slick and easy to maneuver, with a step-by-step instruction process that leaves nothing to chance.   

This applies to the LivePlan online learning center as well. You can improve your business knowledge using online courses provided by Palo Alto Software that use the same approachable and user-friendly interface.

Features

LivePlan isn’t just a professional business planner that becomes obsolete after you’ve locked down your investors. The software comes equipped with a tracker for measuring the success rate based on the parameters you set out during the planning phase. 

If you go with the annual option, you can link-up your accounting app with LivePlan, feeding in the info required for forecasts and projections of growth. You can even select the “What If” scenario, which allows you to insert hypothetical decisions and see how they would affect your business. 

Palo Alto Software is known for its attention to detail when it comes to forms and templates. The presence of these precise guidelines make LivePlan exceptional, and the program also provides you with examples that perfectly illustrate how to build a business plan. 

These financial forms include data about products and services and how much they cost. While all sample business plans consider this a necessity, Liveplan offers more tools with a slightly more personal touch.  

LivePlan’s personnel section allows you to itemize by individual(e.g., the CEO or simply "John") or by job category (e.g., four programmers, paid an average of $100,000 per year, with an annual raise of four percent).

Moreover, you can make a note on whether an expense represents an overall cost or whether it’s tied to a specific revenue stream. These figures can be expressed as a percentage of revenue or varying cost over time. 

The downside is the integration of other software. While the company integrates accounting software Xero and QuickBooks Online, saving you time from numerous data entries, there is certainly space for them to expand this option to a number of other business apps.  

Pros:

• Wide range of customizable features
• Lots of helpful resources
• A large library of sample plans

Cons:

• Limited third-party integrations
• The learning curve may be too steep

GoSmallBiz by Tarkenton Company is completely online-based and offers a variety of options focused on micro-enterprises, entrepreneurs, sole proprietors, and home-based businesses.

That being said, it is important to note that GoSmallBiz is much more applicable for writing and developing plans rather than real-time business tracking and management.

Template

GoSmallBiz uses elaborate templates to lead you every step of the way. Although its startup business plan template is its biggest strength, GoSmallBiz can generate documentation for any business model.  

Furthermore, a step-by-step wizard is accompanied by clear and friendly tips and advice that will help you complete your business plan in a timely manner. The templates are fully editable, so you can customize them for your specific needs.

The software also includes an extensive library of common forms that can be utilized for tax planning, HR management and other tasks.

On the other hand, GoSmallBiz could perhaps use more sample business plans in order to provide its users with clear examples of what the final product should look like.

Price 

GoSmallBiz charges $39 per month for their basic services. Although it sounds steep, the price provides you membership features like unlimited business consultations, a website builder, an HR document builder and customer relationship management.

Other features calculated into the monthly subscription fee of the software’s business plan include unlimited business and legal forms, website consultation analysis, risk assessment, online business courses, transaction tracker and a corporate minute writer. The company requires no contracts, enabling you to cancel your subscription at any time.

Interface 

Since GoSmallBiz relies on users who often lack the experience in creating business plans, its interface is designed to walk you through the process as pleasantly as possible. The website builder is based on a simple drag-and-drop principle which will have you designing a website for your future enterprise in no time. 

Designed to service beginners, the GoSmallBiz will help you overcome your fears and give your presentation the edge it needs. The hosting of your website is free of charge, which is a nice touch given how pesky hosting companies can be with fees and additional expenses.  

Features 

The basic package being offered here is anything but basic. GoSmallBiz provides its monthly users everything from on-demand video consulting to a fully developed CRM service, accompanied by email marketing.

You can also count on a digital marketing dashboard, business risk assessment, HR documents builder as well as a website builder. 

The arsenal of tools and services is robust. Tarkenton’s main business venture is small business consulting, and as such their business plans software enjoys extensive support. The software will give you access to Tarkenton’s expert business consultants and an unlimited number of questions you can ask online. The company guarantees answers to all inquiries within two business days. 

Another great trait is the basic transaction tracker. Although Tarkenton lacks the long-term analysis software, it makes up for it with a simple tracker that serves as a priceless tool when compiling  financial statements. In addition, the software provides a corporate minutes writer with an extensive template library. 

Overall, GoSmallBiz uses an all-round approach that combines easy-to-handle apps, templates and forms with an excellent network of customer support. However, its export options are relatively limited. The software only exports files in PDF and MS Word format, and could also use more third-party programs like accounting and business intelligence apps. 

Nevertheless, Tarkenton GoSmallBiz claims to have serviced over 300,000 small businesses and is currently operating with 50,000 active users. Considering that it focuses on small business, we strongly recommend it if you’re starting fresh and need funds for your first venture.

Pros:

• Multiple third-party services
• Highly customizable business plan
• Financial statements and projections 

Cons:

• Limited export options
• Demo version has limited features

Enloop includes a solid financial forecasting software alongside its business plan app. According to their website, Enloop has an impressive track record of more than 300,000 satisfied customers.

Template

Enloop’s template is designed to sort out your vision and provide you with a set of realistic long term objectives. Accompanied by a score counter that evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of your business plan, Enloop’s template is right on point. With a simple set of instructions, all you need to do is insert the data.

The template consists of nine segments which are further separated into brackets. However, the program could use more guidance when it comes to creating operating statements.

Price

Enloop offers a three-tiered solution. The Detailed package has a starting price of $19.95. The package allows you to create up to three separate business plans. With an additional $9.95, users can enhance the number of business plans available.

The regular package also includes an analysis of up to three financial ratios and comes with a number of additional features. If you choose to purchase an annual Detailed package subscription, you can save up to 55% on the total price. 

But Enloop’s pride and joy is its Performance package which enables you to save 66% if you choose the annual option. The package also limits you to three business plans but provides up to 16 financial ratio analysis turns as well as additional features. The Performance package costs $39.95 per month.

If you are unsure about making Enloop your software of choice, get a seven-day free trial version with top-tier features. Although the free option allows you to make only one business plan, it includes a three-year forecast which can provide you with valuable insight into where your business is headed. 

Interface

Enloop's interface keeps you focused and guides you every step of the way. Each step is automated, with Enloop software processing the data you feed it and arranging your document accordingly.

The interface runs smoothly and without delay which is rewarding, especially when you are doing your numbers and don’t have time to bother with faulty software.  

Features

Enloop’s business plan sofwtare provides its users with a wide array of tools and features, covering your future business plan from all possible aspects. One of its most thoughtful traits is the share option which lets you invite members of your team to take part in creating the business plan. 

Other specific properties that give Enloop the edge on the market are the Autowrite and TextSync features. Autowrite is there to provide structure for your business plan text, relying on the data you previously entered. This feature will spit out financial predictions and management history based on your numbers alone, giving you more time to focus on the data.

In terms of structure, Enloop is above the competition on this list thanks to its detail oriented approach. 

The second trait that distinguishes Enloop from the rest of the pack is the TextSync feature. TextSync will make all your worries about synchronizing numbers disappear.

For instance, if you decide to boost your sales projection for a specific period based on the data you acquired after making the initial forecast, TextSync will automatically change all other figures related to that specific change in your business plan. This tool essentially saves you the trouble of having to change the data manually. 

This software will balance your focus and keep you engaged. For example, it will encourage you to dedicate time to the Products and Services section and then let you take a breather while filling out your Past Performance section. 

Although Enloop’s tools offer obvious advantages, we strongly advise prior preparation. A spreadsheet is still your best friend, and only an arsenal of well-prepared data can help fully utilize Enloop’s master tools. Thanks to the software’s performance score you will receive compliments on sets of data that work and warnings for the ones that don’t. 

Pros:

• Automated data processing
• Highly customizable
• Seven-day free trial

Cons:

• Email support only
• No refunds

Bizplan was devised by startup.com with a special focus on companies that are chasing venture capital for the first time. Bizplan offers an abundance of resources with an entire community of start-up experts as well as enthusiasts to back your project.  

Template

Bizplan enables you to customize your own business plan template by using a template-builder tool. In addition, the software keeps track of the customization process, reminding you to include aspects you may have forgotten. Moreover, Bizplan’s library holds a number of well-developed templates for balance sheets, income statements and break-even analysis.

Price

Bizplan offers three packages in its store. The first is the pay-as-you-go monthly package at a cost of $29 per month. If you choose the annual package, you receive a 30% discount with the total amounting to $249. Finally, for a $349 one-time fee, you can get lifetime access to this provider’s services.

Interface

What sets Bizplan apart from other business plan software is its attractive and easy-to-use interface. It enables you to customize your business plan with a simple drag-and-drop tool for templates, similar to modern website builders. The result is a great-looking, structured business plan with a designer’s touch that is sure to leave a good impression on investors. 

Another great trait is the dashboard for your financials. This feature enables you to monitor in real-time as well as generate reports and forecasts. All this is illustrated by useful and easy-to-understand charts that will provide you with immediate insight into the figures you are interested in.

Features

Bizplan is directly connected to Fundable, startup.com’s online fundraising platform. The platform allows users to rank their business plans and receive funds among top-tier investors specialized in providing venture capital for small businesses. 

Bizplan’s strength lies in its intuitive design and a well-prepared fundraising market. Its Fundraising Management tool allows you to market your business plan easily and enhance your chances of getting funds. 

Bizplan’s solid learn-as-you-go tools backed by experienced entrepreneurs are also worth highlighting as the software’s premium features. Combined with dedicated customer service, it makes the program accessible to newcomers while addressing each concern and inquiry. 

By purchasing Bizplan’s generator, users gain access to an entire library of online classes as well as other educational resources and guidelines from professionals who have helped jumpstart thousands of small businesses.

Pros:

• Automatic financial projections
• Huge library of educational resources
• Team and investor collaboration capabilities

Cons:

• Lacks tracking tools
• Too complicated for absolute beginners

While other entries on this list focused on helping users to launch their businesses from scratch, PlanGuru boasts an impressive set of tools for budgeting and forecasting. 

Made by PlanGuru LLC, this business plan software works as a desktop app unlike other entries that are usually cloud-based. 

Template 

The software’s downside is that it doesn’t offer templates. Instead, it integrates other programs like QuickBooks Online, QuickBooks, Xero, and Excel. It might not be the most user-friendly software on the list, but for a mid-tier small business proprietor, it can offer much more than a beginner’s online tool.

Price

In terms of pricing, PlanGuru is certainly the least affordable option with the basic package cost of $99 per month for a single-user license. Each additional user will be charged with another $29 per month.

This adds up to an annual subscription of $899. Although the price sounds steep, this is a highly professional software that is intended for entrepreneurs who wish to step-up their analytics and create the most realistic forecasts possible.

If you find this software unsatisfying, you can get your money back during the first 30 or 60 days depending on whether you signed up for a monthly or an annual package. 

The program comes in two versions. The first one, which specializes in businesses and nonprofits, is the one that landed PlanGuru on this list. The second version is focused on financial advisors and accounts.

Interface

PlanGuru’s interface might seem outdated at first and the features can sometimes appear difficult to handle. But those with experience in accounting and writing business plans are likely to appreciate the required focus. In short, this is the high roller’s choice in the complex world of business plan software programs.

Rather than focusing on visuals, PlanGuru provides users with a deeper insight into their operation than any other entry on this list. 

Features

As you’ve probably noticed, the strength of this business plan software lies in its ability to meticulously run financial processes. PlanGuru’s budgeting tool is especially impressive. But don’t let that scare you.

Although it might seem too professional for such a tool, it still relies on the premise that the user is neither a professional accountant nor a financial expert, but someone who has basic business planning skills. 

PlanGuru offers an arsenal of additional tools designed to tackle every aspect of a business plan. The PlanGuru team is always on hand to offer assistance on the software’s use. 

Meanwhile, PlanGuru Analytics adds to your business plan analysis with insight into both budgeting as well as personnel building and management. 

PlanGuru Analytics focuses on performance measurement and enables you to configure your dashboards to present different types of ratios and metrics. It also handles data like the number of units sold, the headcount of your personnel as well as billable hours. Moreover, it goes into details that enable you to budget salaries per person and revenue per customer.

Delving deep into the accounting software category, this business plan software is definitely more sophisticated than the other names on the list. But that’s not all.

PlanGuru Analytics can highlight variances, identify and track trends as well as present them in a graph chart. Users can also unlock the Advanced Excel Reporting tool to customize reports and export them in .xls format. 

Pros:

• Project management and collaboration features
• QuickBooks and Excel integrations available
• Advanced budgeting and forecasting tools

Cons:

• Expensive
• No business plan templates

Working both as a cloud-based online business plan software and a desktop app, BizPlanBuilder is another great entry for start-ups looking to raise capital. This software enables users to develop a comprehensive business strategy and pitch for moderate funding.

Template

BizPlanBuilder is a beginner's favorite and operates with several templates with details on a number of different industries. After you make your pick, you add the template into the document editor and further customize it to reflect your own needs.

If you’re looking for a startup business plan template, you can rely on the one already prepared by BizPlanBuilder.

Price

You can acquire BizPlanBuilder for $27 per month. The price applies to a single user. With every additional user, the price grows by $1. The package doesn’t offer an annual service since the primary focus is on its business planning qualities and not progress tracking and analytics.

Interface

BizPlanBuilder’s interface is tailored for inexperienced users. It provides a step-by-step wizard that walks you through the writing process, accompanied by intuitive design and questions. The answers are automatically filled into the brackets. The program also includes document-creating tools like spell check, image importing as well as document preview.  

Features

The program includes graph and chart generators, an onboard calculator and budget-feasibility tools. This enables the user to operate with large data entries like figures that get automatically calculated into financial projections, budget sheets, and cost analyses.

These tools save time and allow users to focus on presentation. In addition, you can use BizPlanBuilder to import financial info from your accounting software or Excel sheets. 

Like Enloop and Bizplan, the program allows you to invite team members to participate in creating your business plan in real-time. You can save your results in DOCX and PDF formats, which makes them accessible for most devices.  

The software includes useful educational materials both in the form of written articles as well as videos and personalized mentorships that are streamed on the website.  Also, the company provides a free PR course with one of their experts.

The course is focused on building the user’s public image, including contacts with media outlets, writing press releases and making sure the company gets the representation it deserves. 

The company can be contacted by telephone or via email. All queries will be answered within less than 24 hours. The service is known to be very professional, patient and polite. 

But BizPlanBuilder lacks an organizational chart builder that helps create a flowchart of your company’s hierarchy, accompanied by an operating plan. However, it does allow you to import an image of an organizational chart made by a third-party program. 

Pros:

• Web-based and downloadable
• Additional users for just $1/month
• Excellent customer support

Cons:

• No organizational chart builder
• Limited export options