Monday, December 15, 2014

Writing A Small Business Agricultural Plan

By Lucia Weeks


In every success lies a story of planning and preparation. It is all part of the process. One cannot just expect an instant success without planting the seeds that is required for it to grow. Same is true in the business arena. Any project conducted needs to have a plan first. Otherwise, it will fall.

In this arena, having a concrete plan is indispensable. It is like a blueprint to an architect. Those who are in agriculture ventures understand the importance of small agricultural business plan, knowing that the kind of business they have is very open to challenges beyond their control just like bad weather condition. Having a plan allows them to work on alternatives that will minimize the impact events like this could cause to them.

It is understandable to worry about creating a plan. It is not easy. In fact you may need the help of several people from different industries to work with you. Also, it takes time. But like any other good seeds, this will grow. And once it does, you will reap the full benefits that you deserve after spending time and effort nurturing it. To help you start making one, take a look at the things you need to include.

Clear mission statement. Without a clear mission, you will not have a clear path. This is a clear definition of what you see about your business. It is more than just goals and plans. It is looking beyond what you want to achieve weeks and months from now. Your values in the company should be incorporated or reflected in here.

Goals. It is always recommended to start creating short term goals which you can achieve in a short time. This should be specific and realistic. Goals are important factors in strategizing. They remind you of what you are supposed to do in order to achieve it and keep your focus on.

Background. Give all the basic details of your business like the area of operation, size of the farm that you have, separate office if any and the people who are working with you. Treat this as painting a picture of your business through words. Not all interested investors will have the time to visit your place. Give them something that will show them what it is your are doing.

Concrete strategy. Every goal needs to have a strategy for implementation. If you say you want to expand your operation, you should provide the details on how you will do it. Your strategy can include your marketing plan to promote your products. Case studies will fall in this part to get a picture of how well your market is. Analysis on certain things like your strengths and opportunities should also be detailed here.

Finance analysis. After making your goals and strategies, you should be able to have an idea by then the budget that you need to achieve it. Your financial analysis should contain both your forecast of your company expense and the liquidation of the current status of your finances. If there is a need for more budget, justify it by going back to your strategies and goals.

No matter how you envision your venture to be, if you do not create a written plan, you will fail. Planning is necessary. It keeps you focused and motivated. Do not ignore it.




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