presenting business plan to bank

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Start » startup, smart strategies for presenting your business plan.

Whether you're pitching investors or applying for a bank loan, it's important to nail your business plan presentation. Here are some tips for crafting and presenting yours.

For entrepreneurs who plan to apply for funding or raise investor capital, it's essential to write a solid business plan before launching a business . This document outlines the most important details about your new venture — including your mission, your founding team, your market research and, most importantly, your financial projections.

Once your business plan is written, you may be asked to present it in a variety of circumstances. Much like a professional resume, your plan will need to be tailored and tweaked to appeal to the specific audience you're trying to reach.

Whether you're preparing to write your first plan or refining your existing one, here are some expert-recommended tips for successfully presenting it to anyone who's evaluating your business.

When will you need to present your business plan?

A business plan should contain in-depth details about your business's market, revenue strategy and company structure to communicate the big picture, said Gerald Padilla, vice president of sales and marketing at Joorney Business Plans . The most common circumstances where you'll need to present your plan include:

• Applying for a business loan, especially through a bank or the Small Business Administration .
• Pitching investors and board members.
• Renting a commercial space.

Matthew Wolf, head of advisory and senior consultant for Joorney Business Plans, said that even if your business plan is just an internal document for now, writing one forces you to think critically about how your business will achieve success, while also keeping you accountable.

[Read: 5 Business Plan Templates to Help You Plan for Success . ]

You should be able to clearly state who you are, what you do and why you are relevant.

David Reiling, CEO of Sunrise Banks

Crafting the right business plan for your audience

If you want your business plan to be effective, you should customize and tailor it to the audience you're pitching, said Padilla.

"It's impossible to be everything to everyone," added David Reiling, CEO of Sunrise Banks . "You should be able to clearly state who you are, what you do and why you are relevant."

Here are a few tips to help you do just that.

• Lenders. Banks and the SBA require specific information in their business plan in order to approve a loan , said Padilla. It's important to understand those requirements and address each one within your business plan. "Debt providers are interested in your cash flow being sufficient to cover the principal and interest of the loan for the term," added Wolf.
• Investors. In general, said Wolf, equity investors are interested in returns on investment, as well as debt coverage, which affects free cash flow and returns on investment. However, some investors may also be attracted to different aspects of your business. "Some may be endeared to the product or service concept, while others may invest in the team or CEO because they see the value in their qualities," Padilla told CO—. "Be sure to understand the investors you may be presenting to and their interests."
• Landlords. Padilla noted that the potential landlord of a commercial space may ask for a business plan to understand the type of venture the business owner is proposing for use within the lease space. "They want to get clear details of the applicant's business activity before they accept the potential tenant's lease application," he said.

How to present your business plan

Regardless of your audience, there are a few key things to keep in mind when preparing to present your business plan.

First and foremost, you should ensure that all information included is credible and error-free.

"You want the business plan to reflect your professionalism and add to your credibility," said Padilla. "When using statistics, facts or figures, always cite the source of the data to support your ideas."

[Read: How to Write a Great Business Plan . ]

Reiling noted that you'll want to keep your plan simple so you can present it easily. Consulting resources like the SBA and SCORE can help you strike the right balance between simplicity and providing enough relevant information, he said.

"Bigger isn't necessarily better," Reiling added. "It's the content that matters."

On that note, Wolf advised making your plan as engaging as possible so you can capture the attention of the audience from the beginning.

"Be sure to have a clear go-to-market strategy and think deeply on your business's true competitive advantages," he said.

Finally, be sure to review your plan before each presentation to ensure you're providing the most accurate, up-to-date information on your business and its progress.

"Business plans should be living documents that are revisited and changed to reflect where a business is versus where it projected it would be," said Reiling. "It's the roadmap for a business."

CO— aims to bring you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation.

CO—is committed to helping you start, run and grow your small business. Learn more about the benefits of small business membership in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, here .

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How to Write a Successful Bank Business Plan (+ Template)

Creating a business plan is essential. Still, it can be beneficial for bank s that want to improve their strategy or raise funding.

A well-crafted business plan outlines your company’s vision and documents a step-by-step roadmap of how you will accomplish it. To create an effective business plan, you must first understand the components essential to its success.

This article provides an overview of the key elements that every bank business owner should include in their business plan.

Download the Ultimate Business Plan Template

What is a Bank Business Plan?

A bank business plan is a formal written document describing your company’s business strategy and feasibility. It documents the reasons you will be successful, your areas of competitive advantage, and it includes information about your team members. Your business plan is a critical document that will convince investors and lenders (if needed) that you are positioned to become a successful venture.

Why Write a Bank Business Plan?

A bank business plan is required for banks and investors. The document is a clear and concise guide of your business idea and the steps you will take to make it profitable.

Entrepreneurs can also use this as a roadmap when starting their new company or venture, especially if they are inexperienced in starting a business.

Writing an Effective Bank Business Plan

The following are the key components of a successful bank business plan:

Executive Summary

The executive summary of a bank business plan is a one- to two-page overview of your entire business plan. It should summarize the main points, which will be presented in full in the rest of your business plan.

• Start with a one-line description of your bank company
• Provide a summary of the key points in each section of your business plan, which includes information about your company’s management team, industry analysis, competitive analysis, and financial forecast, among others.

Company Description

This section should include a brief history of your company. Include a short description of how your company started and provide a timeline of milestones your company has achieved.

You may not have a long company history if you are just starting your bank business. Instead, you can include information about your professional experience in this industry and how and why you conceived your new venture. If you have worked for a similar company or been involved in an entrepreneurial venture before starting your bank firm, mention this.

You will also include information about your chosen bank business model and how, if applicable, it is different from other companies in your industry.

Industry Analysis

The industry or market analysis is an essential component of a bank business plan. Conduct thorough market research to determine industry trends and document the size of your market. 

Questions to answer include:

• What part of the bank industry are you targeting?
• How big is the market?
• What trends are happening in the industry right now (and if applicable, how do these trends support your company’s success)?

You should also include sources for your information, such as published research reports and expert opinions.

Customer Analysis

This section should include a list of your target audience(s) with demographic and psychographic profiles (e.g., age, gender, income level, profession, job titles, interests). You will need to provide a profile of each customer segment separately, including their needs and wants.

For example, a bank business’ customers may include small businesses, large corporations, and individuals. Each customer segment will have different requirements that your bank company will need to cater to.

You can include information about how your customers decide to buy from you and what keeps them buying from you.

Develop a strategy for targeting those customers who are most likely to buy from you, as well as those that might be influenced to buy your products or bank services with the right marketing.

Competitive Analysis

The competitive analysis helps you determine how your product or service will differ from competitors, and what your unique selling proposition (USP) might be that will set you apart in this industry.

For each competitor, list their strengths and weaknesses. Next, determine your areas of competitive advantage; that is, in what ways are you different from and ideally better than your competitors.

Below are sample competitive advantages your bank business may have:

• Proven track record with a focus on customer service.
• Superior technology that makes banking easier and more convenient for customers.
• Range of products and services to meet the needs of different customer segments.
• Sound financial position with a commitment to responsible lending practices.
• Extensive branch and ATM network.

Marketing Plan

This part of the business plan is where you determine and document your marketing plan. . Your plan should be laid out, including the following 4 Ps.

• Product/Service : Detail your product/service offerings here. Document their features and benefits.
• Price : Document your pricing strategy here. In addition to stating the prices for your products/services, mention how your pricing compares to your competition.
• Place : Where will your customers find you? What channels of distribution (e.g., partnerships) will you use to reach them if applicable?
• Promotion : How will you reach your target customers? For example, you may use social media, write blog posts, create an email marketing campaign, use pay-per-click advertising, or launch a direct mail campaign. Or you may promote your bank business via PR or events.

Operations Plan

This part of your bank business plan should include the following information:

• How will you deliver your product/service to customers? For example, will you do it in person or over the phone?
• What infrastructure, equipment, and resources are needed to operate successfully? How can you meet those requirements within budget constraints?

You also need to include your company’s business policies in the operations plan. You will want to establish policies related to everything from customer service to pricing, to the overall brand image you are trying to present.

Finally, and most importantly, your Operations Plan will outline the milestones your company hopes to achieve within the next five years. Create a chart that shows the key milestone(s) you hope to achieve each quarter for the next four quarters, and then each year for the following four years. Examples of milestones for a bank business include reaching $X in sales. Other examples include expanding to new markets, launching new products and services, and hiring key personnel.

Management Team

List your team members here, including their names and titles, as well as their expertise and experience relevant to your specific bank industry. Include brief biography sketches for each team member.

Particularly if you are seeking funding, the goal of this section is to convince investors and lenders that your team has the expertise and experience to execute on your plan. If you are missing key team members, document the roles and responsibilities you plan to hire for in the future.

Financial Plan

Here, you will include a summary of your complete and detailed financial plan (your full financial projections go in the Appendix). 

This includes the following three financial statements:

Income Statement

Your income statement should include:

• Revenue : how much revenue you generate.
• Cost of Goods Sold : These are your direct costs associated with generating revenue. This includes labor costs and the cost of any equipment and supplies used to deliver the product/service offering.
• Net Income (or loss) : Once expenses and revenue are totaled and deducted from each other, this is the net income or loss.

Sample Income Statement for a Startup Bank

Balance sheet.

Include a balance sheet that shows your assets, liabilities, and equity. Your balance sheet should include:

• Assets : Everything you own (including cash).
• Liabilities : This is what you owe against your company’s assets, such as accounts payable or loans.
• Equity : The worth of your business after all liabilities and assets are totaled and deducted from each other.

Sample Balance Sheet for a Startup Bank

Cash flow statement.

Include a cash flow statement showing how much cash comes in, how much cash goes out and a net cash flow for each year. The cash flow statement should include cash flow from:

• Investments

Below is a sample of a projected cash flow statement for a startup bank business.

Sample Cash Flow Statement for a Startup Bank

You will also want to include an appendix section which will include:

• Your complete financial projections
• A complete list of your company’s business policies and procedures related to the rest of the business plan (marketing, operations, etc.)
• Any other documentation which supports what you included in the body of your business plan.

Writing a good business plan gives you the advantage of being fully prepared to launch and grow your bank company. It not only outlines your business vision but also provides a step-by-step process of how you will accomplish it.

Now that you know how to write a business plan for your bank, you can get started on putting together your own.

Finish Your Business Plan in 1 Day!

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Tips on presenting your business plan to investors

Find out what you need to know before you walk into an investor pitch. Presented by Chase for Business .

You put days, months — maybe even years — into crafting your business plan. You double- and triple-checked all the numbers. You had it professionally designed. And now the day has come. All that hard work has paid off and you have a chance to present your plan to a potential investor or group of investors. And while who you know is often a big advantage in business, in this case, what you know is even more important.

Know your business plan

Once you’ve made it to the step of presenting your winning business plan  to potential investors, chances are they’ve already read it, or at least part of it, and want to hear more. Be sure you know your plan inside and out. They may ask you to give a 30-second elevator speech, which is a high-level summary of your business, your customers and what sets you apart. Or they may want you to recite the entire executive summary from memory. The point is, you have to be ready for anything. Prepare to reiterate, elaborate or consolidate what’s in your plan, and anticipate any questions investors may have.

Know your audience

Many career investors will speak about their experiences, their backgrounds, what they look for in business partners, what they like to hear during a pitch (and what they don’t), industries they’re interested in and more. That’s why it could be valuable to do some research upfront. Look for any interviews they may have given, articles or blogs they’ve authored and what’s on their social profiles. If you know anyone in their network, talk to them. The better you know the audience you’ll be presenting to, the more you can cater the presentation to appeal to them. For instance, if you know that a potential investor is a staunch environmentalist who believes in saving trees, you may not want to bring a dozen copies of a 30-page business plan to the meeting.

Know your customers

Investors want to know the people they may be getting involved with, and that includes your customers. Thoroughly research your target audience. Instead of presenting a bulleted list about your customers, you might engage investors by telling a story. Walk them through a typical day in the life of a customer. Where do they live? What do they like to do? What are their needs? And how does your product or service help fulfill those needs? If investors become vested in your customers, they may be more likely to invest in your business.

Know your data

When it comes to letting go of their hard-earned money, most investors just want you to show them the numbers. It wouldn’t be unusual for a potential investor to ask for market statistics, revenue forecasts or customer acquisition costs during a pitch. Be sure you have realistic data and can back it up. After all, no matter how much investors like you as a person or believe in your product, their main goal is to make money. Their wheels are always turning as they try to figure how much of a return they can get on their investment and how long it will take.

Know your environment

You were so excited to get the meeting invite with a potential investor that you glossed over the details. But taking a closer look can make all the difference between being well prepared and scrambling at the last minute.

For an in-person meeting, the invite most likely includes the address, floor number, conference room name or specific location. If you’re close enough and have the time before the meeting, you may want to consider visiting the location. And if you’re able to get into the conference room, even better. If it’s not possible to visit, think about calling the meeting coordinator to ask any specific questions about the meeting room. Either way, here are some things you may want to confirm before the big day:

• What is the size/layout of the room?
• Is there one big conference table?
• Is there a large TV or monitor?
• Will everyone be sitting?
• Will you need a microphone?
• Does the room have an internet connection? Is it password protected?
• Are there available outlets?
• Will you need to bring an extension cord or an HDMI cable?

If the meeting is virtual, you’ll still want to prepare but in a different kind of way. With this type of meeting, you may have to work a little harder to keep your audience’s attention. Be ready with these tips:

• Make sure the sound, picture and material are clear, crisp and engaging.
• Set up your space ahead of time.
• Check the lighting in the room at the time of day as the meeting so that you can open or close shades, add additional lamps or make any adjustments.
• Be sure the background is uncluttered and professional.
• Try signing on to the video platform you’ll be using to avoid any last-minute login issues.
• Check that your speakers and computer microphone are working properly.
• Do a practice run with a friend or family member, and record the presentation to see what it will look like from your audience’s point of view. 

Know your time

The last thing you want to do is prepare an amazing 30-minute presentation, only to find out you only have 10 minutes to present. Even though the meeting invite may indicate a one-hour meeting, things change and some meeting booking programs don’t allow customizations. It wouldn’t hurt to confirm how much time you have to present so there are no surprises.

The bottom line

In the same way it helps to develop a business plan checklist when crafting a business plan, it’s also important to put the same time and effort into creating a strategy for presenting that plan to potential investors. Following these tips can be a great place to start. As with anything in business and in life, knowledge is key. The more you know, the more prepared and comfortable you’ll be come pitch day.

For more ideas on how to get funding to grow your business, speak with a Chase business banker .

For informational/educational purposes only: The opinions expressed in this article may differ from those of other employees and departments of JPMorgan Chase & Co. Opinions and strategies described may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended as specific advice/recommendation for any individual. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but JPMorgan Chase & Co. or its affiliates and/or subsidiaries do not warrant its completeness or accuracy. You should carefully consider your needs and objectives before making any decisions and consult the appropriate professional(s). Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results.

JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. ©2023 JPMorgan Chase & Co.

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Bank Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Bank Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 500 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their banks.

If you’re unfamiliar with creating a bank business plan, you may think creating one will be a time-consuming and frustrating process. For most entrepreneurs it is, but for you, it won’t be since we’re here to help. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write a bank business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What Is a Bank Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your bank as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for Your Bank Business

If you’re looking to start a bank or grow your existing bank, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your bank to improve your chances of success. Your bank business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Banks

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a bank are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for banks.  

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a bank.

If you want to start a bank or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The guide below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of your bank business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of bank you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a bank that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of banks?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan.

• Give a brief overview of the bank industry.
• Discuss the type of bank you are operating.
• Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers.
• Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team.
• Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of bank you are operating.

For example, you might specialize in one of the following types of banks:

• Commercial bank : this type of bank tends to concentrate on supporting businesses. Both large corporations and small businesses can turn to commercial banks if they need to open a checking or savings account, borrow money, obtain access to credit or transfer funds to companies in foreign markets.
• Credit union: this type of bank operates much like a traditional bank (issues loans, provides checking and savings accounts, etc.) but banks are for-profit whereas credit unions are not. Credit unions fall under the direction of their own members. They tend to serve people affiliated with a particular group, such as people living in the same area, low-income members of a community or armed service members. They also tend to charge lower fees and offer lower loan rates.
• Retail bank: retail banks can be traditional, brick-and-mortar brands that customers can access in-person, online, or through their mobile phones. They also offer general public financial products and services such as bank accounts, loans, credit cards, and insurance.
• Investment bank: this type of bank manages the trading of stocks, bonds, and other securities between companies and investors. They also advise individuals and corporations who need financial guidance, reorganize companies through mergers and acquisitions, manage investment portfolios or raise money for certain businesses and the federal government.

In addition to explaining the type of bank you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of clients served, the number of clients with positive reviews, reaching X number of clients served, etc.
• Your legal business Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the bank industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the bank industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating.

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your bank business plan:

• How big is the bank industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your bank? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your bank business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, small businesses, families, and corporations.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of bank you operate. Clearly, corporations would respond to different marketing promotions than individuals, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are other banks.

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. This includes trust accounts, investment companies, or the stock market. You need to mention such competition as well.

For each such competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What type of bank are they?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide loans and retirement savings accounts?
• Will you offer products or services that your competition doesn’t?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.  

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a bank business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type of bank company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you provide savings accounts, auto loans, mortgage loans, or financial advice?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of your plan, you are presenting the products and/or services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your bank. Document where your company is situated and mention how the site will impact your success. For example, is your bank located in a busy retail district, a business district, a standalone office, or purely online? Discuss how your site might be the ideal location for your customers.

Promotions : The final part of your bank marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
• Reach out to websites
• Distribute flyers
• Engage in email marketing
• Advertise on social media platforms
• Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your bank, including reconciling accounts, customer service, accounting, etc.

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to sign up your Xth customer, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to expand your bank to a new city.  

Management Team

To demonstrate your bank’s potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company.

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing banks. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a bank or successfully running a small financial advisory firm.  

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you see 5 clients per day, and/or offer sign up bonuses? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your bank, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt.

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a bank:

• Cost of furniture and office supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and equipment

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your bank location lease or a list of accounts and loans you plan to offer.  

Writing a business plan for your bank is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will understand the bank industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful bank.  

Bank Business Plan Template FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my bank business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your bank business plan.

How Do You Start a Bank Business?

Starting a bank business is easy with these 14 steps:

• Choose the Name for Your Bank Business
• Create Your Bank Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Bank Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Bank Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Bank Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Bank Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Bank Business Equipment
• Develop Your Bank Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Bank Business
• Open for Business

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Bank business plan?

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.   Click here to see how a Growthink business plan consultant can create your business plan for you.

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How to Write a Business Plan to Start a Bank

FEB.10, 2024

Bank Business Plan Checklist

A bank business plan is a document that describes the bank’s goals, strategies, operations, and financial projections. It communicates the bank’s vision and value proposition to potential investors, regulators, and stakeholders. A SBA business plan should be clear, concise, and realistic. It should also cover all the essential aspects of the bank’s business model.

Here is a checklist of the main sections that you should keep in mind while building a bank business plan:

• Executive summary
• Company description
• Industry analysis
• Competitive analysis
• Service or product list
• Marketing and sales plan
• Operations plan
• Management team
• Funding request
• Financial plan

Sample Business Plan for Bank

The following is a bank business plan template that operates in the USA. This bank business plan example is regarding ABC Bank, and it includes the following sections:

Executive Summary

ABC Bank is a new bank for California’s SMBs and individuals. We offer convenient banking services tailored to our customers’ needs and preferences. We have a large target market with over 500,000 SMBs spending billions on banking services annually. We have the licenses and approvals to operate our bank and raised $20 million in seed funding. We are looking for another $30 million in debt financing.

Our goal is to launch our bank by the end of 2024 and achieve the following objectives in the first five years of operation:

• Acquire 100,000 customers and 10% market share
• Generate $100 million in annual revenue and $20 million in net profit
• Achieve a return on equity (ROE) of 15% and a return on assets (ROA) of 1.5%
• Expand our network to 10 branches and 50 ATMs
• Increase our brand awareness and customer loyalty

Our bank has great potential to succeed and grow in the banking industry. We invite you to read the rest of our microfinance business plan to learn about how to set up a business plan for the bank and how we will achieve our goals.

Industry Analysis

California has one of the biggest and most active banking industries in the US and the world. According to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp , California has 128 financial institutions, with total assets exceeding $560 billion.

The California banking industry is regulated and supervised by various federal and state authorities. However, they also face several risks and challenges, such as:

• High competition and consolidation
• Increasing regulation and compliance
• Rising customer demand for digital and mobile banking
• Cyberattacks and data breaches
• Environmental and social issues

The banking industry in California is highly competitive and fragmented. According to the FDIC, the top 10 banks and thrifts in California by total deposits as of June 30, 2023, were:

Customer Analysis

We serve SMBs who need local, easy, and cheap banking. We divide our customers into four segments by size, industry, location, and needs: 

SMB Segment 1 – Tech SMBs in big cities of California. These are fast-growing, banking-intensive customers. They account for a fifth of our market share and a third of our revenue and are loyal and referable.

SMB Segment 2 – Entertainment SMBs in California’s entertainment hubs. These are high-profile, banking-heavy customers. They make up a sixth of our market and a fourth of our revenue and are loyal and influential.

SMB Segment 3 – Tourism SMBs in California’s tourist spots. These are seasonal, banking-dependent customers. They represent a quarter of our market and a fifth of our revenue and are loyal and satisfied.

SMB Segment 4 – Other SMBs in various regions of California. These are slow-growing, banking-light customers. They constitute two-fifths of our market and a quarter of our revenue and are loyal and stable.

Competitive Analysis

We compete with other banks and financial institutions that offer similar or substitute products and services to our target customers in our target market. We group our competitors into four categories based on their size and scope: 

1. National Banks

• Key Players – Bank of America, Wells Fargo, JPMorgan Chase, Citibank, U.S. Bank
• Strengths – Large customer base, strong brand, extensive branch/ATM network, innovation, robust operations, solid financial performance
• Weaknesses – High competition, regulatory costs, low customer satisfaction, high attrition
• Strategies – Maintain dominance through customer acquisition/retention, revenue growth, efficiency

2. Regional Banks

• Key Players – MUFG Union Bank, Bank of the West, First Republic Bank, Silicon Valley Bank, East West Bank
• Strengths – Loyal customer base, brand recognition, convenient branch/ATM network, flexible operations
• Weaknesses – Moderate competition, regulatory costs, customer attrition
• Strategies – Grow market presence through customer acquisition/retention, revenue optimization, efficiency

3. Community Banks

• Key Players – Mechanics Bank, Bank of Marin, Pacific Premier Bank, Tri Counties Bank, Luther Burbank Savings
• Strengths – Small loyal customer base, reputation, convenient branches, ability to adapt
• Weaknesses – Low innovation and technology adoption
• Strategies – Maintain niche identity through customer loyalty, revenue optimization, efficiency

4. Online Banks

• Key Players – Ally Bank, Capital One 360, Discover Bank, Chime Bank, Varo Bank
• Strengths – Large growing customer base, strong brand, no branches, lean operations, high efficiency
• Weaknesses – High competition, regulatory costs, low customer satisfaction and trust, high attrition
• Strategies – Disrupt the industry by acquiring/retaining customers, optimizing revenue, improving efficiency

Market Research

Our market research shows that:

• California has a large, competitive, growing banking market with 128 banks and $560 billion in assets.
• Our target customers are the SMBs in California, which is 99.8% of the businesses and employ 7.2-7.4 million employees.
• Our main competitors are national and regional banks in California that offer similar banking products and services.

We conclude that:

• Based on the information provided in our loan officer business plan , there is a promising business opportunity for us to venture into and establish a presence in the banking market in California.
• We should focus on the SMBs in California, as they have various unmet banking needs, preferences, behavior, and a high potential for growth and profitability.

Operations Plan

Our operational structure and processes form the basis of our operations plan, and they are as follows:

• Location and Layout – We have a network of 10 branches and 50 ATMs across our target area in California. We strategically place our branches and ATMs in convenient and high-traffic locations.
• Equipment and Technology – We use modern equipment and technology to provide our products and services. We have c omputers and software for banking functions; security systems to protect branches and ATMs; communication systems to communicate with customers and staff; i nventory and supplies to operate branches and ATMs.
• Suppliers and Vendors – We work with reliable suppliers and vendors that provide our inventory and supplies like cash, cards, paper, etc. We have supplier management systems to evaluate performance.
• Staff and Management – Our branches have staff like branch managers, customer service representatives, tellers, and ATM technicians with suitable qualifications and experience.
• Policies and Procedures – We have policies for customer service, cash handling, card handling, and paper handling to ensure quality, minimize losses, and comply with regulations. We use various tools and systems to implement these policies.

Management Team

The following individuals make up our management team:

• Earl Yao, CEO and Founder – Earl is responsible for establishing and guiding the bank’s vision, mission, strategy, and overall operations. He brings with him over 20 years of banking experience.
• Paula Wells, CFO and Co-Founder – Paula oversees financial planning, reporting, analysis, compliance, and risk management.
• Mark Hans, CTO – Mark leads our technology strategy, infrastructure, innovation, and digital transformation.
• Emma Smith, CMO – Emma is responsible for designing and implementing our marketing strategy and campaigns.
• David O’kane, COO – David manages the daily operations and processes of the bank ensuring our products and services meet the highest standards of quality and efficiency.

Financial Projections

Our assumptions and drivers form the basis of our financial projections, which are as follows:

Assumptions: We have made the following assumptions for our collection agency business plan :

• Start with 10 branches, 50 ATMs in January 2024
• Grow branches and ATMs 10% annually
• 10,000 customers per branch, 2,000 per ATM
• 5% average loan rate, 2% average deposit rate
• 80% average loan-to-deposit ratio
• $10 average fee per customer monthly
• $100,000 average operating expense per branch monthly
• $10,000 average operating expense per ATM monthly
• 25% average tax rate

Our financial projections are as per our:

• Projected Income Statement
• Projected Cash Flow Statement
• Projected Balance Sheet
• Projected Financial Ratios and Indicators

Select the Legal Framework for Your Bank

Our legal structure and requirements form the basis of our legal framework, which are as follows:

Legal Structure and Entity – We have chosen to incorporate our bank as a limited liability company (LLC) under the laws of California.

Members – We have two members who own and control our bank: Earl Yao and Paula Wells, the founders and co-founders of our bank.

Manager – We have appointed Mark Hans as our manager who oversees our bank’s day-to-day operations and activities.

Name – We have registered our bank’s name as ABC Bank LLC with the California Secretary of State. We have also obtained a trademark registration for our name and logo.

Registered Agent – We have designated XYZ Registered Agent Services LLC as our registered agent authorized to receive and handle legal notices and documents on behalf of our bank.

Licenses and Approvals – We have obtained the necessary licenses and approvals to operate our bank in California, including:

• Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Insurance
• Federal Reserve System Membership
• California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI) License
• Business License
• Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Zoning and Building Permits

Legal Documents and Agreements – We have prepared and signed the necessary legal documents and agreements to form and operate our bank, including:

• Certificate of Formation
• Operating Agreement
• Membership Agreement
• Loan Agreement
• Card Agreement
• Paper Agreement

Keys to Success

We analyze our market, customers, competitors, and industry to determine our keys to success. We have identified the following keys to success for our bank.

Customer Satisfaction

Customer satisfaction is vital for any business, especially a bank relying on loyalty and referrals. It is the degree customers are happy with our products, services, and interactions. It is influenced by:

• Product and service quality – High-quality products and services that meet customer needs and preferences
• Customer service quality – Friendly, professional, and helpful customer service across channels
• Customer experience quality – Convenient, reliable, and secure customer access and transactions

We will measure satisfaction with surveys, feedback, mystery shopping, and net promoter scores. Our goal is a net promoter score of at least 8.

Operational Efficiency

Efficiency is key in a regulated, competitive environment. It is using resources and processes effectively to achieve goals and objectives. It is influenced by:

• Resource optimization – Effective and efficient use and control of capital, staff, and technology
• Process improvement – Streamlined, standardized processes measured for performance
• Performance management – Managing financial, operational, customer, and stakeholder performance

We will measure efficiency with KPIs, metrics, dashboards, and operational efficiency ratios. Our goal is an operational efficiency ratio below 50%.

Partner with OGSCapital for Your Bank Business Plan Success

Highly efficient service.

Highly Efficient Service! I am incredibly happy with the outcome; Alex and his team are highly efficient professionals with a diverse bank of knowledge.

Are you looking to hire business plan writers to start a bank business plan? At OGSCapital, we can help you create a customized and high-quality bank development business plan to meet your goals and exceed your expectations.

We have a team of senior business plan experts with extensive experience and expertise in various industries and markets. We will conduct thorough market research, develop a unique value proposition, design a compelling financial model, and craft a persuasive pitch deck for your business plan. We will also offer you strategic advice, guidance, and access to a network of investors and other crucial contacts.

We are not just a business plan writing service. We are a partner and a mentor who will support you throughout your entrepreneurial journey. We will help you achieve your business goals with smart solutions and professional advice. Contact us today and let us help you turn your business idea into a reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start a small bank business?

To start a small bank business in the US, you need to raise enough capital, understand how to make a business plan for the bank, apply for a federal or state charter, register your bank for taxes, open a business bank account, set up accounting, get the necessary permits and licenses, get bank insurance, define your brand, create your website, and set up your phone system.

Are banks profitable businesses?

Yes, banks are profitable businesses in the US. They earn money through interest on loans and fees for other services. The commercial banking industry in the US has grown 5.6% per year on average between 2018 and 2023.

Download Bank Business Plan Sample in pdf

OGSCapital’s team has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs with top-rate business plan development, consultancy and analysis. They’ve helped thousands of SME owners secure more than $1.5 billion in funding, and they can do the same for you.

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How to write a business plan for a bank loan?

Whether you need a bank loan to start up a new business, grow an existing business or anything in between, writing a business plan can help make it a reality!

It involves outlining your goals and explaining how you plan to achieve them. A professional business plan is crucial to obtaining a bank loan and planning your outlook for both the short and long-term future.

Yet, most entrepreneurs view writing a business plan as a daunting task. But, it doesn't have to be!

In this guide, we explain what writing a business plan for a bank loan entails, why you need one, what tool you should use, and what content should be included.

Ready? Let's get started!

In this guide:

What is a business plan?

Do i need a business plan to secure a business loan, do banks actually look at business plans or is it just a box-ticking exercise, what do banks look for in a business plan, what tool should i use to write a business plan for a bank loan, what does a business plan for a bank loan look like, do i need a 3 or 5 year business plan for a bank, how long does a business plan for a bank loan need to be, key financial metrics and ratios banks look at when deciding on a loan application, examples and templates of business plans for a bank loan, pdf vs. powerpoint pitch: what format should you use to present your business plan to the bank, can i apply for multiple loans at the same time.

• Is it worth using a credit broker to apply to multiple lenders?

How long does the loan approval process usually take?

Key takeaways.

A business plan is a written document that contains two key parts:

• A written presentation that outlines what the company does, its medium term objectives and explains how it plans to achieve them.
• A financial plan that includes a cash flow statement, profit and loss statement and a balance sheet.

To get a business loan approved you need to convince the lender that your business will be able to repay it.

Regulated lenders also have legal obligations to demonstrate to their regulators that they are lending responsibly, meaning that your business can afford the loan.

Therefore, whilst a business plan is not strictly necessary to obtain a business loan, most banks will likely ask you to provide one, as it provides an objective way of assessing your borrowing capacity and to demonstrate affordability.

Imagine the following situation, a business borrows £100k from a regulated bank, and then goes bust. The regulator decides to investigate the bank. The bank can then provide the business plan to help demonstrate that the loan was affordable and that it behaved responsibly.

Need a solid financial forecast?

The Business Plan Shop does the maths for you. Simply enter your revenues, costs and investments. Click save and our online tool builds a three-way forecast for you instantly.

Most banks will look at your business plan when you hand in a loan application. How in-depth the bank looks at it though will depend on whether you are borrowing against assets or cash flow.

Asset-based lending

Borrowing against assets involves lending money to businesses whilst using their assets as collateral. These loans are also called secured loans.

Secured loans help reduce risks for lenders, they can seize the collateral if the borrower is unable to repay and sell the asset to recoup part of their losses. That's what happens with mortgages, for example.

Banks usually have pre-set loan-to-value ratios (LTVs) for the most common types of assets (property, equipment, vehicles etc.).

A loan-to-value assessment simply compares the appraised value of your asset against the value of the business loan.

For example, if you're buying a car worth £10,000 and the LTV ratio used by the bank is 70%, they can lend you up to £7,000 and will take the car as collateral.

The bank still needs to assess that you can afford the £7,000 business loan. They might ask you for a business plan, but might decide not to do so given that it's a small amount. They might simply look at your trading history or ask for a personal guarantee from the business owner instead.

BDC Bank - a Canadian bank - says that "financial institutions don’t use the same loan-to-value ratio for all asset types because of different asset liquidity levels".

In layman's terms, liquidity means how easy it is to sell the asset. If it's a delivery van, it's very easy as there is an established secondhand market (high liquidity), if it's a chemical plant it might take up to a year (low liquidity).

In a nutshell, the easier it is to sell the asset (if it needs to be seized), the higher the loan amount.

According to BDC Bank , likely LTV ratios for common asset types are:

• Marketable securities (high in liquidity): 90%
• Accounts receivables: 75%
• Commercial and industrial real estate: 65% to 100%
• Inventory (low in liquidity): 50%.

Capital Source Group - an alternate lender - says that some banks require a down payment of up to 20% of the market value of the equipment, referring to firms seeking finance to purchase key equipment, and mentions an indicative baseline LTV ratio of 50%.

Cash-flow-based lending

As we've seen above, asset-based lending is relatively straightforward, and lower risk as the asset is used as collateral. The decision making is more complicated if your business borrows against cash flows (for e.g. working capital purposes).

Cash-flow-based borrowing involves lending money to businesses based on their predicted cash flows. The bank has to assess how much you can borrow based on historical and projected financials.

Doing so requires to have a clear understanding of the future cash flows of the business, which can only be obtained through a business plan.

Most banks ask for business plans when you apply for a business loan because they need it to understand:

Who the borrower is

Whether or not there is collateral.

• If there is a trading history that supports the cash flow forecast
• What borrowing capacity and affordability can be inferred from the forecast

Firstly, the bank has to understand what entity or person it is lending money to. For example, if you take over a business, you could buy either its assets or shares.

If you were to buy their assets, a new company would likely be created but if you were to purchase their shares, you could do it directly or via a holding company (likelier option).

Depending on which option you choose, the bank has to decide whether it's lending to your current business, yourself or the holding company. The answer to this question then determines the level of risk the bank is undertaking.

Next, the bank has to decide whether or not there is sufficient collateral. Can it secure the loan against the business assets or does it need to request a personal warranty from the business owner(s)?

It will assess:

• Whether or not your current business has any assets that can be used as collateral
• If you, the business owner, have a house or cash in the bank or can offer a credible personal guarantee
• Whether or not the holding company will provide its shares as collateral or if it needs to ask its shareholders for a personal guarantee (or both)

Once the bank understands the value of the security, it can better estimate the borrowing capacity of the entity.

Does the trading history support the cash flow forecast

The bank will want to know if there is any trading history to support your cash flow forecast.

If there isn't, it becomes harder to judge and riskier from a lender's viewpoint.

Borrowing capacity and affordability: total indebtedness and credit metrics

Lastly, the bank will estimate your business credit score by taking into consideration: whether or not you have any outstanding debt, what your past repayments were like, and credit metrics such as fixed charge coverage ratio, net debt-to-equity ratio, and interest coverage ratio (we'll detail these 3 ratios later in this guide).

Need inspiration for your business plan?

The Business Plan Shop has dozens of business plan templates that you can use to get a clear idea of what a complete business plan looks like.

Writing a business plan can be both tedious and difficult if you start from scratch. Luckily for you, online business plan software can help you write a professional plan in no time.

There are several advantages to using specialised software like The Business Plan Shop:

• You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan
• You can be inspired by already written business plan templates
• You can easily make your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you
• You get a professional document, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank
• You can easily compare your forecast against actuals from your accounting system to ensure you are on track to deliver your plan, and adjust your forecast to keep it up to date as time goes by

If you are interested in this type of solution, you can try our software for free by signing up to The Business Plan Shop today .

There are seven key sections that any business plan for a bank loan must include:

• Executive summary
• Company Overview
• Products and services
• Market analysis
• Financial projections

Let's have a look at each one in more detail.

1. Executive summary

Your executive summary should provide the bank with a quick snapshot of your business (who you are, what you sell, and what your financial projections look like). Remember that this is the first section of your business plan that they will look at - you need to keep them interested and do not need to go into depth.

You should also include details such as the loan amount sought and its purpose, providing the bank with a clear understanding of how the funds will be utilized to support your business's growth and operations.

For example, if you're a small manufacturing company seeking a loan to purchase new equipment, your executive summary would outline the specific amount needed for equipment acquisition and how it will contribute to increasing production capacity and efficiency.

Above is an example of how the "Our Ask" section which details the funding requirements might look like. This image was taken from one of our business plan templates .

Additionally, the executive summary may highlight any collateral or security offered to mitigate the lender's risk.

This could include assets such as real estate, equipment, inventory, or accounts receivable that you're willing to pledge as security for the loan.

By clearly outlining the collateral available to secure the loan, you demonstrate your commitment to fulfilling your financial obligations and provide assurance to the bank regarding the loan's repayment.

Moreover, the executive summary may touch upon the key terms and conditions your business is willing to accept, such as interest rates, repayment schedules, and loan covenants, to ensure the loan aligns with your business's financial objectives and capabilities.

For instance, if you're a small retail store seeking a loan to open a second store, you may try to negotiate a loan repayment holiday to defer the principal repayments until after the second store has started trading in order to improve cash flow.

2. Company overview

In this section, you should explain what structure your business takes up (sole trader, partnership or limited liability company). This way, the bank understands whether or not you are liable if your business defaults on its loan. If you are not they might ask you for a personal guarantee.

If you are a partnership or limited liability company, state who your partners are and what percentage of the business they own. Also, outline any skills and experience they have that make them suitable for their role.

Finally, you should state where your business(es) are located and why that particular location was chosen (for example, it could be because of the parking slots available or transport links, making it very accessible for potential customers).

3. Products and services

You should include a detailed list of the products or services that you sell. Whilst you don't have to specify every single item or service, you should aim to include all of the key ones.

For example, for a hair salon, this might be hair care, washing, stylish haircuts, combing, hair colouring, waving, and hair straightening.

4. Market analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan for a bank loan is where you bring together your local and national market research. Using charts and graphs along with text makes it easier to illustrate your points clearly.

You should also state who you plan to target and the competitors in your local market. For example, if you were a coffee shop business, you could target people seeking a takeaway coffee, those looking for a lunch or snack or people looking for a place to work.

Finally, you should state the regulation in effect in the local market and whether there are any plans to make changes in the future (by the council for example).

5. Strategy

Your strategy section helps explain how you plan to make your business a success. Both marketing and pricing strategies feature in this section.

Explain how you've determined your prices and whether or not they differ from your competitors. Remember that this will depend on your overall pricing strategy (cost-plus pricing, competitive, price skimming, etc.).

Your marketing plan should explain how you plan to attract and retain customers. For example, you could have an attractive storefront with your logo to encourage potential customers to visit inside. You might also offer loyalty cards (for example, buy 3 burgers, get the fourth one free).

Finally, key milestones must also be outlined so that both parties are aware of what needs to be achieved within an agreed-upon timeframe along with measures taken against any foreseeable risks and mitigants related thereto.

6. Operations

The operations section of your business plan for a bank loan should include information about your staffing team. List any current and future recruitment plans, employee skills, experience and what roles they are going to take up.

Plus, you should state what suppliers you chose and why. For example, you might have chosen a particular supplier thanks to their eco-friendly stance or brand reputation.

7. Financial projections

Arguably the most important section in your business plan for a bank, your financial projections help the bank decide whether or not they should lend to your company.

This section includes your balance sheet, profit and loss statement and cash flow forecast. Figures from these three statements are used to compute key ratios (see the section below).

Profit and loss statement

A projected P&L statement shows how much money the company might make and how much it will grow in the future.

It helps stakeholders understand how successful the company could be.

Balance sheet

A balance sheet shows what your business owns (assets), what it owes (liabilities), and what has been invested by the owners (equity).

Looking at a balance sheet enables investors, lenders, and business owners to assess the capital structure of the business.

One key aspect of this analysis is achieved by calculating key liquidity (short-term) and solvability (long-term) ratios to understand if the company can pay its debts as they fall due.

Cash flow statement

A projected cash flow statement is a document used to plan out how much cash your business will generate (inflows) and spend over a certain period (outflows).

This document shows the expected cash flows from the operations, investments and other financial activities.

Having this information can help you decide how much money your business needs to save for future expenses or investments, as well as anticipate potential cash shortfalls.

When seeking a bank loan, one common question that arises is the duration of the business plan required.

Understanding whether you need a 3-year plan or a more detailed 5-year money lending business plan can impact your credit application process.

For startups, and most small businesses, a 3-year business plan strikes the right balance between providing a clear vision of the future and not overwhelming with excessive detail.

This shorter timeframe is also often preferred by banks as it allows for a focused projection of your business's trajectory without straying too far into the unknown.

For these reasons, three-years is the de facto standard business plan duration for a loan application.

That being said, it might make sense for businesses to use a 5-year business plan in certain situations. For example when there are delayed cash flows because of a longer development or sales cycle or when the loan is used to fund significant capital investments.

Consider a manufacturing company investing in a new factory to increase production capacity. A 5-year plan would detail the initial investment and leave enough time to show the expected returns and the long-term impact on revenue, costs, and market position.

This longer-term view offers a more comprehensive picture of your business's growth potential and can demonstrate to the bank that you have a clear strategy for sustained success.

In summary, whether you opt for a 3 or 5-year business plan depends on the nature of your business, its growth trajectory, and the level of detail required to support your loan application.

Like most business plans, there's no specific number of pages that yours must have. A good rule of thumb, however, is to keep it between 15 and 35 pages.

As long as you've covered all of the key sections, ranging from the executive summary to the financial projections, your business plan for a bank loan should be good to go.

Remember, quality is more important than quantity.

Need a convincing business plan?

The Business Plan Shop makes it easy to create a financial forecast to assess the potential profitability of your projects, and write a business plan that’ll wow investors.

It's worth noting that ratio targets set by lenders are industry dependent.

There are usually three key financial ratios that banks calculate before lending money:

1. Fixed charged coverage ratio

This solvency ratio assesses how much headroom a business has over its upcoming debt repayments.

It is calculated by dividing the Cash flow available for debt service (or CFADS), which measures how much cash flow is available to pay off debt obligations, by the amount to be paid to service the debt (interest plus principal repayments).

It is one of the main ratios used by lenders to assess the borrowing capacity and the financial risk of a given business.

For businesses utilising bank debt, lenders usually expect the fixed charge coverage ratio to be above 2.0x, which implies that the business is expected to generate twice as much cash as is needed to service the debt, leaving a healthy buffer.

In any case, the ratio should be above 1.0x, below 1.0x the business is not generating enough cash to service its debt which puts lenders at risk.

For example, if your business records a CFADS of £500,000 and total debt service amounting to £250,000 (£50,000 of interest payments, and £200,000 of principal repayments), it will have a fixed charge coverage ratio of 2.0x.

2. Debt-to-EBITDA

This solvency ratio is used to assess the level of debt and borrowing capacity of the business. It compares the level of debt to the firm’s EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization), used as a proxy for the operating cash flow.

For example, if your company has debt worth £20m and an EBITDA of £5M, your debt to EBITDA ratio would be £20m/£5m = 4.0x.

In simple terms, a company with a debt-to-EBITDA ratio of 4.0x would need at least 4 years to repay its debt. Whether or not this is too high will depend on the sector and the risk appetite of the lender.

3. Interest coverage ratio 

This solvency ratio is commonly used by lenders to measure a business's ability to pay interest on its debt. It compares the firm’s EBITDA, used as a proxy for the operating cash flow, with the amount of interest expense due in a financial year. 

Let's assume that you are writing a restaurant business plan for bank loan. Your business has an EBITDA of £500,000 and interest expenses amounting to £50,000, meaning it will have an interest coverage ratio of 10.0x.

The rationale behind this ratio is that, if the company was to default on its debt, lenders could potentially agree to delay the principal repayments as long as the company remains able to at least pay the interest. In that scenario, their capital would remain at risk but lenders would still be able to earn a return.

The higher the interest coverage ratio the better. Targets set by lenders are industry dependent. An interest coverage ratio higher than 4.0x is generally a good starting point.

Most of the business plan templates offered by The Business Plan Shop are examples of companies seeking bank loans and so can be used to structure your own plan.

We have templates to fit various industries including hospitality, retail, services, construction, industrials and more.

When preparing to present your business plan to a bank, one crucial decision is choosing the right format.

Should you go with a traditional PDF document or opt for a more dynamic PowerPoint pitch?

Using a PDF format is usually recommended to present a money-lending business plan. What matters to the bank is the content of your document, and the PDF format offers a comprehensive and structured way to present your business's details, financial projections, and strategies.

This format allows you to include detailed written explanations, charts, and graphs, providing a thorough overview of your business to the bank.

PDFs are particularly suitable for conveying complex information in a clear and organized manner, making it easier for bank officials to review and assess your loan application.

Does it mean that PowerPoint should be avoided at all costs?

Not necessarily, a PowerPoint pitch offers a visual and concise way to present the main takeaways from your business plan to the bank, and could therefore be used to complement your PDF document.

This format allows you to highlight key points, trends, and projections using engaging visuals, bullet points, and diagrams.

PowerPoint presentations could be effective for capturing the attention of bank officials during meetings or presentations, enabling you to convey your business's essence and potential compellingly.

In conclusion, a business plan in PDF is expected when presenting a business plan to the bank, but a PowerPoint can also be provided alongside.

As a small business owner seeking financing, you may wonder if it's possible to cast a wider net by applying for multiple loans simultaneously.

While it may seem like a strategic approach to increase your chances of securing funding, there are important factors to consider before pursuing this avenue.

Impact on your credit score

The first factor you need to consider is the potential implications for your credit score, financial stability, and relationship with lenders.

Applying for multiple loans within a short timeframe can result in multiple hard inquiries on your credit report, which may lower your credit score and raise red flags for lenders.

What happens if your business loan request is denied?

The second factor you need to consider is what happens if your initial business loan requests are denied.

Despite your best efforts, there's always the possibility that your business plan for a bank loan may not be enticing enough.

If your business plan fails to meet the lender's requirements or to convince them, it could be worth revisiting and refining your business plan, addressing any weaknesses or gaps highlighted by the lender, before submitting another application to another bank.

For these reasons, it is usually more prudent to approach lenders one by one, to take on board their feedback and wait for a successful offer before playing the market to find the best offer.

Is it worth using a credit broker?

Navigating the loan application process can be daunting, especially when considering multiple lenders.

One option to streamline this process is to enlist the services of a credit broker.

However, it's essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of using a credit broker compared to applying to banks independently.

Let's delve into what a credit broker is and whether it's worth utilizing their services for your financing needs.

What is a credit broker?

A credit broker is a professional intermediary who assists individuals and businesses in finding suitable loan options from multiple lenders.

These brokers have extensive knowledge of the lending market and can help match borrowers with lenders that align with their financial needs and preferences.

Credit brokers typically charge a fee for their services, either upfront or upon successful loan approval.

For example, if you're a small business owner in the construction industry seeking financing for a new project.

Instead of approaching individual banks on your own, you'd engage a credit broker to help you navigate the lending landscape.

The broker evaluates your business's financial situation, objectives, and borrowing requirements, then identifies and presents you with tailored loan options from various lenders, saving you time and effort in the process.

Benefits and drawbacks of using a credit broker vs applying to banks independently

Using a credit broker offers several potential benefits, such as access to a wider network of lenders, personalized loan recommendations, and assistance throughout the application process.

Brokers can also negotiate on behalf of borrowers to secure favorable loan terms and conditions.

However, it's essential to consider the drawbacks as well, including the cost of using a broker, the potential for conflicts of interest, and the risk of relying solely on the broker's advice without conducting independent research.

For example, if you were a small business owner in construction, using a credit broker may provide access to specialized lenders familiar with the construction industry's unique financing needs.

The broker can negotiate competitive interest rates and favorable repayment terms, ultimately saving the business owner money and time.

But, you must carefully weigh the broker's fee against the potential savings and ensure transparency in the broker's recommendations to make an informed decision.

In summary, whether it's worth using a credit broker to apply to multiple lenders depends on your specific financial situation, borrowing needs, and preferences.

While brokers offer valuable expertise and assistance, it's essential to evaluate the costs and benefits carefully and consider alternative approaches before making a decision.

Understanding the timeline for the loan approval process is crucial for effectively managing your business's financial needs and expectations.

While the duration can vary depending on various factors, having a general understanding of the typical timeline can help you plan accordingly and avoid unnecessary delays.

Let's explore what factors may influence the timeline for the loan approval process.

The loan approval process typically involves several stages, including application submission, review and assessment by the lender, underwriting, and final approval.

The duration of each stage can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the loan application, the lender's internal processes, and external factors such as market conditions or regulatory requirements.

While some loans may be approved relatively quickly, others may require more time for thorough evaluation and due diligence.

For example, suppose you're a small business owner in the manufacturing sector seeking a term loan to expand your production facility.

After submitting your loan application to a bank, the initial review and assessment may take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the lender's workload and responsiveness.

Once the application passes the initial review stage, it undergoes underwriting, where the lender evaluates your business's creditworthiness, financial stability, and repayment ability.

This stage can also vary in duration, ranging from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the loan and the thoroughness of the underwriting process.

Banks know how long their processes usually take so they will be able to give you a clear timeline when you apply. They also appreciate that you may take your business elsewhere if they are too slow to respond, so they usually try to be as fast as possible to be competitive.

On your side, you can speed up the timeline by making sure you have all the documents ready beforehand (including the various documents needed to clear anti-money-laundering checks), and by staying proactive and engaged throughout the process and working closely with your lender.

Now that we've covered various aspects of crafting a business plan for bank financing, let's summarize the key points to remember:.

• A business plan is mandatory in order to secure a bank loan.
• Use a business plan software (such as The Business Plan Shop) to ensure you write a professional business plan with all the information that banks expect to see.
• Choose a 3-year plan presented in PDF, unless advised otherwise by the bank.
• Take time to understand the loan application process before submitting your application.
• Be prepared for the possibility of your initial loan request being denied, and know how to address and improve your business plan if it fails to secure funding the first time.
• Remember that banks look at credit metrics in different ways, a rejection by one lender doesn't mean you won't get approved by another.
• Consider using a credit broker to apply to multiple lenders if their services align with your financing goals.

We hope that this guide has helped you to better understand how to write a business plan for a bank loan. Do not hesitate to contact us if you still have questions.

Also on The Business Plan Shop

• How investors analyse business plans
• Business plan vs budget: what's the difference?
• Business plan for grant application

Know someone looking to take out a bank loan for their business? Share this article with them!

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

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How To Write A Business Plan for A Bank Loan (3 Key Steps)

Wondering how to create a business plan that will wow your banker.

You're not alone.

Most entrepreneurs see writing a business plan as a gargantuan task – especially if they've never written one before.

Where do you start?

How do you calculate the financials?

How can you be sure you're not making a mistake?

And if you need a business plan for a bank loan, getting this document right is absolutely essential.

So here's what we recommend: simplify the planning process by breaking the work up into manageable, bite–sized steps. That way, you can focus on one section at a time to make sure it's accurate.

Here's a quick overview of the step–by–step process we guide entrepreneurs through when they sign up for LivePlan.

Step 1: Outline The Opportunity

This is the core of your business plan. It should give loan officers a clear understanding of:

• What problem you're solving
• How your product or service fits into the current market
• What sets your business apart from the competition

There are three key parts to this step:

The Problem & Solution

Detail exactly what problem you are solving for your customers. How do their lives improve after you solve that “pain point” for them?

We recommend actually going out and chatting with your target audience first. That way, you can validate that you're solving a real problem for your potential customers.

Be sure to describe your solution in vivid detail. For example, if the problem is that parking downtown is expensive and hard to find, your solution might be a bike rental service with designated pickup and dropoff locations.

Target Market

Who exactly are you selling to? And roughly how many of them are there?

This is crucial information for determining whether or not your business will succeed long–term. Never assume that your target market is “everyone.”

For example, it would be easy for a barber shop to target everyone who needs a haircut. But most likely, it will need to focus on a specific market segment to reach its full business potential. This might include catering to children and families, seniors or business professionals.

Competition

Who are your direct competitors? These are companies that provide similar solutions that aim to solve your customers' pain points.

Then outline what your competitive advantages are. Why should your target market choose you over the other products or services available?

Think you don't have any competition? Think again. Your customers are likely turning to an indirect competitor that is solving their problem with a different type of solution.

For example: A taco stand might compete directly with another taco stand, but indirectly with a nearby hot dog vendor.

Boost your chances of securing a loan

See how LivePlan can help you write a fundable business plan

Step 2: Show how you'll execute

This is where the action happens! Here you'll get into the details of how you'll take advantage of the opportunity you outlined in the previous section. This part demonstrates to banks that you have a strong plan to achieve success.

The three main components of this step include:

Marketing & Sales Plan

There can be a lot of moving parts to this one, depending on your business model.

But most importantly, you'll need to fully explain how you plan to reach your target market and convert those people into customers. A few example of what should be included:

• Positioning strategy. What makes your business both unique and highly desirable to your target market?
• Marketing activities. Will you advertise with billboards, online ads or something else entirely?
• Pricing. What you charge must reflect consumer demand. There are a few models to choose from, including ‘cost–plus pricing’ and ‘value pricing.’

This is the nuts and bolts of your business. It's especially important for brick–and–mortar companies that operate a storefront or have a warehouse.

You may want to explain why your location is important or detail how much space you have available. Plan to work at home? You can also cover your office space and any plans to move outside your house.

Any specialized software or equipment and tools should also be covered here.

Milestones & Metrics

Lenders and investors want to be confident that you know how to turn your business plans into financial success. That's where your milestones come in.

These are planned goals that help you progress your company. For example, if you're launching a new product your milestones may include completing prototypes and figuring out manufacturing.

Metrics are how you will gauge the success of your business. Do you want to generate a certain level of sales? Or keep costs at a certain level? Figuring out which metrics are most important and then tracking them is essential for growth.

Step 3: Detail your financial plan

This is the most crucial – and intimidating – part of any business plan for a bank loan. Your prospective lender will look especially close at this section to determine how likely your business is to succeed.

But the financial section doesn't have to be overwhelming, especially if you break the work into smaller pieces. Here are 3 items that your plan must have:

Simply put, this is your projections for your business finances. It gives you (and the bank) an idea of how much profit your company stands to make. Just a few items you'll need to include:

• Revenue. List all your products, services and any other ways your business will generate income.
• Direct costs. Or in other words, what are the costs to make what you sell?
• Personnel. Salaries and expenses related to what you pay yourself, employees and any contactors.
• Expenses. Things like rent, utilities, marketing costs and any other regular expenses.

Exactly how will you use any investments, loans or other financing to grow your business? This might include paying for capital expenses like equipment or hiring personnel.

Also detail where all your financing is coming from. Lines of credit, loans or personal savings should be listed here.

Bankers will be giving this section a lot of attention. Here's what you'll need:

• Profit & Loss. This statement pulls in numbers from your sales forecast and other elements to show whether you're making or losing money.
• Projected Balance Sheet. This is likely the first thing a loan officer will look at: it covers your liability, capital and assets. It provides an overview of how financially sound your business is.
• Projected Cash Flow. Essentially, this statement keeps track of how much money you have in the bank at any given point. Loan officers are likely to expect realistic monthly cash flow for the next 12 months.

Don't forget the Executive Summary

The Executive Summary is the first section of your business plan, but we recommend you tackle it last.

It's basically an introduction to your company, summarizing the main points of your plan. Keep it to just one or two pages and be as clear and concise as possible.

Think of it as a quick read designed to get the lender excited about your business.

If you need help writing your plan

Not everyone feels confident writing a business plan themselves, especially if it's needed to secure a bank loan.

And although you don't need an MBA to write one, getting your business plan right often does require quite a bit of work. So if you need help writing your plan, here are two options to consider:

• Hire a professional business plan writer to do it for you. This is typically the most expensive route, but worth it if you're pursuing $100,000 or more in capital.
• Sign up for LivePlan. It's business planning software that walks you through a step–by–step process for writing any type of plan. It's an affordable option that also gives you an easy way to track your actuals against your business plan, so you can get the insights you need to grow faster.

LivePlan makes it easy to write a winning business plan

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Pitching Your Business Idea to a Bank

You’ve got a great business idea but you don’t have the funds to start it up? Do you know how to approach banks so that you are able to secure a loan? If not, here are some tips that might help you do that.

For most entrepreneurs that do not possess the necessary capital to finance their business idea, the bank is the first option they turn to. And with good reason. Still, many future entrepreneurs approach the process of obtaining a bank loan with a great deal of confusion or anxiety.

While most up-and-coming entrepreneurs would be happy to leave out the creation and presentation of financial forecasts along with a solid business plan , it’s a no-brainer that these are the most important aspects of which your bank business manager will be interested in. Still, the good news is that with a lot of preparation, you could significantly increase your chances of obtaining a bank loan and building that amazing company.

At this point, the business plan will become the top star of your business idea and the most important document you could present. Moreover, it is an awesome way of getting started because it will require you to present your idea, the opportunity, your goals and the strategy you will apply to achieve them. In addition, as an entrepreneur and future business owner you must believe that your business idea is viable from a financial standpoint. Need a bit of help? Check out our section on The Business Plan .

So let’s continue. To ensure that the idea is not only attractive for the banker but also financially viable, your business plan must answer some questions such as:

• What is your Business model?
• What are your objectives and the strategy to achieve them?
• Where do you see your company in the market in the long run?
• Who are your potential customers and how do you plan to approach them?
• Who is your competition? How do you plan to differentiate from your competition?
• How much revenue will you require to launch a company and how will you utilize it?

In my opinion, no entrepreneur should launch a start-up under-capitalized. Therefore, it is safe to say that you need to know your options. Maybe, you will have to cover the costs of setting up, equipment, materials and even bills and wages before you will generate enough money to make your newly founded company profitable.

The plan must show for what purposes the capital is intended, how you will spend it and how you plan on repaying the loan. Moreover, you should include other details on any degree of security you could offer lenders (either business or personal assets), but also revenue and income sources. Plus, you should present a cash-flow, both profit and loss, as well as a sales forecasts for the next 3 to 5 years.

If you’re still not 100% percent of what you should do, maybe you should take some time and speak to a manager of a local bank that can offer you valuable advice. Also, there is nothing you can lose if you present the business plan for the first time to that person. You already have a relationship with that person so why not take advantage of it?

How to prepare yourself to respond to the bank’s questions

Remember that the main objective of the bank is to help businesses while also getting their money back with an interest. Having an in-depth understanding of your cash-flow is extremely important. Most times, when banks ask questions that will help them determine where the revenue comes from, they soon see if this is true or false.

If you need help with writing your business plan you can always talk with a business consultancy company that offers this specific type of service.

Don’t get into over complicated matters. If you talk to the bank in a sincere and straight to the point manner, they will have a real understanding of both your goals and the main areas your business will cover. Banks could also be considered as a great source of free information, while also offering guidance on all areas of your financial needs.

To avoid leaving the bank manager with the impression that he/she’s being sold on, it is recommended that you don’t use the hard pitch. Also, it is important to not be on the defensive. Rather, you should carefully pay attention to the feedback he/she is offering you. And also, prepare yourself for leaving the office while having a variety of concerns you’ll need to touch upon. If that is the case, don’t consider it as a “NO”. It’s just that your plan may require some small improvements before the bank offers to lend you the money. In most cases, the person interviewing you and assessing your business plan does not have the power to sign off the loan. In turn, they will have to pitch the business idea themselves. That is why the need to have a solid understanding of what you and your future company are all about.

The most common mistakes entrepreneurs commit

When entrepreneurs hope to secure that all-important bank loan, one of the fundamental mistakes they commit is that they go in too early. If you present the first draft of the business plan to the bank manager, your business idea is destined to fail.

So make sure you have the basics covered:

• Are the costs in line?
• Will the profits help you pay back the bank loan?
• Am I willing to borrow money based on this business plan?

Last but not least, avoid rushing things. You need to stay confident and believe with all your heart in your business idea. Setbacks and doubts will arise whether we want to accept it or not, but by keeping things simple and compiling as much info as possible will help you stay on track.

Being your own boss can be one of the most rewarding and thrilling experiences you will ever live. Regardless of how great a business plan is on paper, angel investors or investors in general are more interested in investing in people.

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How To Write a Business Plan for Bank in 9 Steps: Checklist

By henry sheykin, resources on bank.

• Financial Model
• Business Plan
• Value Proposition
• One-Page Business Plan
• SWOT Analysis
• Business Model
• Marketing Plan

Welcome to our blog post on How To Write a Business Plan for a Bank in 9 Steps. In today's digital age, the banking industry is undergoing a significant transformation with the rise of online banking platforms. According to recent statistics, the global digital banking market is projected to reach $22.3 trillion by 2027, with a CAGR of 8.6% from 2020 to 2027. This exponential growth highlights the immense potential for entrepreneurs and aspiring bankers to establish their own digital banking platform.

When it comes to starting a digital banking platform, having a well-designed business plan is crucial for success. A comprehensive business plan not only serves as a roadmap, but also helps attract potential investors and secure necessary funding. In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps to create a compelling business plan that banks will find irresistible.

Step 1: Conduct market research and analysis

Step 2: Determine the target market and customer profile

Step 3: Identify and analyze potential competitors

Step 4: Perform a feasibility study

Step 5: Define the unique value proposition and competitive advantage

Step 6: Develop a comprehensive financial plan

Step 7: Establish strategic goals and objectives

Step 8: Define the organizational structure and management team

Step 9: Obtain necessary licenses and regulatory approvals

In the upcoming sections, we will delve into each step in detail, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to successfully navigate the process of writing a business plan for a bank.

Building a digital banking platform that offers convenience, security, and financial literacy can revolutionize the banking industry. So, let's dive into the first step - conducting market research and analysis to lay the foundation for your business plan.

Conduct Market Research And Analysis

Conducting thorough market research and analysis is a crucial step in developing a successful business plan for a digital banking platform. This process allows you to gain a deep understanding of the market landscape, identify potential opportunities and challenges, and make informed decisions when it comes to your target market and customer profile.

• Identify the size and growth potential of the market: Begin by gathering data on the size of the market you intend to enter. This will help you assess the growth potential and determine if it presents a viable opportunity for your digital banking platform.
• Analyze your target market: Dive deeper into your target market by identifying demographic characteristics, such as age, income, and location. Understanding the needs and preferences of your target market is crucial in developing tailored financial products and services.
• Assess market trends and competition: Stay updated on the latest market trends and innovations in the digital banking industry. Analyze your potential competitors to understand their strengths, weaknesses, and market positioning. This will help you identify gaps in the market and differentiate your platform.
• Evaluate customer needs and pain points: Interview potential customers and conduct surveys to gather insights into their financial needs, challenges, and pain points. This information will be invaluable in designing solutions that address their specific requirements.

Tips for Conducting Market Research and Analysis:

• Utilize both primary and secondary research methods to gather comprehensive market data.
• Monitor industry reports, publications, and online resources to stay up-to-date with market trends.
• Consider partnering with market research firms or consultants for a more in-depth analysis.
• Engage with potential customers through focus groups or online communities to gather qualitative insights.
• Regularly review and update your market research to adapt to evolving market dynamics.

By conducting thorough market research and analysis, you will be equipped with valuable information to guide your business decisions and develop a compelling business plan for your digital banking platform.

Determine The Target Market And Customer Profile

Identifying and understanding your target market is crucial for the success of your digital banking platform. It allows you to tailor your products, services, and marketing efforts to meet the specific needs and preferences of your customers. Here are the important steps to determine your target market and customer profile:

• Conduct market research: Start by conducting thorough market research to gather insights and data about the demographics, psychographics, and behavior of potential customers. This will help you understand who your ideal customers are and what they are looking for in a digital banking platform.
• Segmentation: Once you have collected the necessary information, segment your target market based on criteria such as age, income level, location, and financial goals. This will allow you to create targeted marketing campaigns and develop personalized offerings for each segment.
• Identify customer needs: Analyze the pain points and challenges faced by your target market. Identify their financial goals and aspirations, and determine how your platform can address their needs effectively.
• Competitor analysis: Evaluate your competitors' target markets and customer profiles to identify any gaps or opportunities in the market. Differentiate your platform by offering unique features or services that specifically cater to your target market's needs.

Tips for determining the target market and customer profile:

• Use surveys, interviews, and focus groups to gather firsthand feedback from potential customers. This will give you valuable insights into their preferences, pain points, and expectations.
• Stay updated with market trends and changes in customer behavior. Continuously monitor and analyze data to ensure your target market profile remains relevant and accurate.
• Consider utilizing data analytics tools to gain a deeper understanding of your target market. This will help you make data-driven decisions and refine your marketing strategies based on customer preferences.
• Regularly review and adapt your target market and customer profile as your platform grows and evolves. Customer needs and preferences may change over time, and it is crucial to stay agile and proactive in meeting those changes.

Identify And Analyze Potential Competitors

Identifying and analyzing potential competitors is a crucial step in creating a business plan for a bank. This step helps you assess the competitive landscape and understand the strengths and weaknesses of other players in the market. Here are some key considerations:

• Research: Conduct thorough research to identify existing banks and financial institutions offering similar services. Look for both traditional brick-and-mortar banks as well as digital banking platforms.
• Online Presence: Explore their online presence and evaluate their digital banking capabilities. Look for features, functionalities, and user experience that differentiate them.
• Competitive Advantages: Identify the unique selling propositions (USPs) of your competitors. Determine what sets them apart from others in terms of product offerings, customer service, technology, or any other factors.
• Customer Reviews: Analyze customer reviews and feedback on various platforms to gain insights into customer satisfaction and grievances. This will help you identify areas where your competitors excel or fall short.
• Market Share: Determine the market share and customer base of each competitor. This will give you an idea of the scale and reach you need to target.
• Financial Performance: Analyze the financial performance of your competitors by studying their annual reports, financial statements, and any available data. This will help you understand their growth trajectory and potential vulnerabilities.
• Look beyond direct competitors and consider indirect ones, such as fintech start-ups or alternative financial service providers.
• Keep an eye on emerging trends and innovations in the banking industry to stay ahead of your competitors.
• Consider conducting a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis for each major competitor to gain a deeper understanding of their positioning.

Identifying and analyzing potential competitors is not only about understanding the competition but also about finding opportunities to differentiate your digital banking platform. By studying your competitors, you can identify gaps in the market and develop strategies that align with your unique value proposition.

Perform A Feasibility Study

A feasibility study is a crucial step in the business planning process. It involves conducting a comprehensive analysis to determine the viability of your digital banking platform. This study will help you assess the potential risks and benefits associated with your business idea and make informed decisions.

During the feasibility study, you should analyze various aspects of your business idea, including the market demand, competition, technological requirements, financial projections, and regulatory landscape. Here are the key steps to perform a feasibility study:

• Conduct thorough market research to understand the current demand for digital banking services and identify any gaps in the market.
• Evaluate the potential size of your target market and identify your ideal customer profile to tailor your offerings effectively.
• Assess the competitive landscape by analyzing existing digital banking platforms, their features, pricing strategies, and customer base.
• Consider the technological requirements for establishing and maintaining your online banking platform. Ensure that you have access to reliable and secure infrastructure.
• Develop financial projections and assess the profitability and sustainability of your business model. Consider factors such as revenue streams, operating expenses, and potential return on investment.
• Study the regulatory environment and identify the licenses and approvals required to operate a digital banking platform in your target market.
• Engage with industry experts and seek their advice during the feasibility study to gain valuable insights.
• Consider conducting surveys or focus groups to gather feedback from potential customers and validate your assumptions.
• Regularly review and update your feasibility study as market conditions and industry trends evolve.

By conducting a thorough feasibility study, you will gain a deeper understanding of the viability and potential of your digital banking platform. This study will serve as a foundation for making informed decisions throughout the business planning process.

Define The Unique Value Proposition And Competitive Advantage

Defining the unique value proposition and competitive advantage of your digital banking platform is crucial in order to differentiate yourself from other financial institutions and attract customers. Your value proposition is the core promise you make to customers about the benefits they will receive by using your platform. Your competitive advantage is what sets you apart from competitors and gives you an edge in the market.

• Identify Your Unique Selling Points: Determine what makes your platform unique and why customers should choose it over others. Consider features such as advanced security measures, user-friendly interface, personalized financial advice, or innovative banking solutions. These selling points will help you stand out and provide value that your competitors might not offer.
• Prioritize Customer Needs: Understand your target market's pain points and financial needs. Tailor your offerings and services to address these specific needs. Whether it is offering low-interest rates on loans, providing competitive investment options, or simplifying the account opening process, make sure your value proposition directly addresses the challenges your customers face.
• Analyze Competitors: Study your competitors' value propositions and competitive advantages. Identify the gaps and areas where you can excel. Look for opportunities to offer a better customer experience, more innovative products, or superior customer service. This analysis will allow you to position your platform as a market leader and attract customers seeking a better banking experience.

Tips for Defining Your Value Proposition and Competitive Advantage:

• Emphasize the convenience and accessibility of your digital banking platform.
• Showcase your commitment to security and privacy.
• Highlight any partnerships or collaborations that add value to your platform.
• Demonstrate your expertise in financial education and advisory services.
• Offer unique features such as budgeting tools, financial planning, or rewards programs.

By clearly defining your unique value proposition and competitive advantage, you can effectively market your digital banking platform to potential customers and secure their trust and loyalty. Remember, your value proposition should clearly communicate the benefits customers will gain by choosing your platform and should differentiate you from competitors. Building a strong value proposition will be instrumental in the success of your business plan.

Develop A Comprehensive Financial Plan

Developing a comprehensive financial plan is a crucial step in creating a business plan for a bank. This plan outlines the projected financial performance of your digital banking platform and demonstrates to potential investors and lenders that your business is financially viable.

When developing your financial plan, consider the following:

• Revenue projections: Estimate the revenue your digital banking platform is expected to generate. This can include income from various sources such as transaction fees, interest on loans, and commissions from financial products.
• Expense projections: Forecast the expenses associated with running your platform, including personnel costs, technology infrastructure, marketing expenses, and regulatory compliance costs.
• Capital requirements: Calculate the amount of capital needed to start and operate your digital banking platform. This includes upfront costs such as software development, marketing campaigns, and initial infrastructure investments.
• Profitability analysis: Assess the profitability of your platform by calculating the net income and profit margin. This analysis helps determine the financial feasibility and sustainability of your business.
• Cash flow projections: Forecast the cash flow of your digital banking platform, including the inflows from revenue and investment, as well as the outflows from expenses and loan repayments.
• Funding sources: Identify potential funding sources for your platform, such as bank loans, venture capital investments, or crowdfunding campaigns.
• Research industry benchmarks and financial ratios to ensure your projections are realistic and market-aligned.
• Consider the potential impact of external factors such as economic conditions, regulatory changes, and customer behavior on your financial plan.
• Regularly review and update your financial plan to reflect any changes in your business or market conditions.

By developing a comprehensive financial plan, you can demonstrate to banks and investors that your digital banking platform has a clear pathway to profitability and long-term success.

Establish Strategic Goals And Objectives

Establishing strategic goals and objectives is a crucial step in writing a business plan for a bank. These goals and objectives will serve as a roadmap for your digital banking platform, guiding all your actions and decisions towards a defined direction. It is important to clearly define and articulate these goals and objectives to ensure that everyone in the organization is aligned and working towards a common vision.

When establishing strategic goals and objectives, consider the long-term vision of your digital banking platform . What do you envision your platform to become in the next five or ten years? How do you see it evolving and growing? Define these aspirations into specific goals that are achievable and measurable.

Additionally, it is important to set objectives that are SMART - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This means that each objective should be clearly defined, quantifiable, realistic, relevant to your business, and have a deadline for completion.

Here are some tips to consider when establishing strategic goals and objectives for your digital banking platform:

• Take into account market trends and customer demands when defining goals and objectives.
• Align your goals and objectives with your unique value proposition and competitive advantage.
• Consider both financial and non-financial objectives, such as customer satisfaction and innovation.
• Involve key stakeholders in the goal-setting process to ensure buy-in and commitment.
• Regularly review and update your goals and objectives to adapt to changes in the market and industry.

By establishing clear strategic goals and objectives, you are providing a direction for your digital banking platform to strive towards. These goals will serve as a compass, guiding your decisions and actions as you work towards success in the competitive banking industry.

Define The Organizational Structure And Management Team

Defining the organizational structure and management team is a crucial step in writing a business plan for a bank. This section outlines the key individuals who will be responsible for managing the operations and achieving the strategic goals of the digital banking platform.

To begin, it is important to clearly outline the various departments and positions within the organization. This includes roles such as CEO, CFO, CTO, and COO, as well as departments like finance, technology, operations, and customer service. Clearly defining these roles and responsibilities helps establish a clear chain of command and ensures that all areas of the business are properly managed.

• Consider including an organizational chart to visually depict the structure of the organization.
• Provide a brief description of each key management team member's background, skills, and experience.
• Highlight any unique qualities or expertise that these individuals bring to the table that make them a valuable asset to the organization.
• Consider including any advisory boards or external consultants that will be involved in decision-making processes.

Furthermore, it is essential to emphasize the qualifications and experience of each member of the management team. This includes their educational background, professional accomplishments, and relevant industry experience. Demonstrating that the team possesses the necessary skills and expertise significantly strengthens the credibility of the business plan and instills confidence in potential investors or lenders.

Lastly, it is important to consider and outline any plans for future expansion or growth. As the digital banking platform evolves, so too may the organizational structure and management team. Clearly articulate the expected growth trajectory and how the team will adapt to the changing needs of the business.

By properly defining the organizational structure and management team, the business plan for a digital banking platform becomes a comprehensive document that demonstrates a solid foundation for success. This section showcases the individuals driving the business forward, while also addressing how the organization will adapt and grow over time.

Obtain Necessary Licenses And Regulatory Approvals

Obtaining the necessary licenses and regulatory approvals is a crucial step in establishing a digital banking platform. Compliance with legal and regulatory requirements ensures that your business operates within the boundaries set by governing authorities. Here are the key steps to take when seeking licenses and approvals:

• Research Licensing Requirements: Begin by researching the specific licenses and permits required for operating a digital banking platform in your jurisdiction. Different countries and regions may have varying regulations, so it is essential to be well-informed. Consult with legal experts or industry professionals to navigate the complexities of licensing.
• Submit Applications: Once you have identified the licenses and permits needed for your digital banking platform, prepare and submit the required applications. Be sure to provide accurate and comprehensive information, as any discrepancies or oversights could lead to delays or rejection of your application.
• Engage with Regulatory Authorities: Throughout the licensing process, it is important to maintain open lines of communication with the relevant regulatory authorities. Address any queries or requests for additional information promptly and transparently. This will help in establishing a positive relationship with the authorities and expediting the approval process.
• Comply with Regulatory Requirements: As you progress towards obtaining licenses and approvals, ensure that your business fully complies with all relevant regulatory requirements. This may include maintaining appropriate capital adequacy ratios, implementing robust anti-money laundering measures, and adhering to data protection and privacy laws.
• Seek Legal Counsel: Working with experienced legal counsel specializing in financial regulations can prove invaluable during this process. They can offer guidance, review your compliance efforts, and help navigate any legal complexities that may arise.
• Stay Updated: Regulatory frameworks and requirements are subject to change, so it is crucial to stay informed about any updates or amendments. Continuously monitor regulatory developments to ensure that your digital banking platform remains compliant.
• Start the licensing process early: Obtaining licenses and regulatory approvals can be a time-consuming process. Starting early allows for any unexpected delays and ensures you meet your desired launch timeline.
• Be thorough and accurate: Pay meticulous attention to detail when completing license applications. Provide all necessary documentation and information to avoid unnecessary delays or complications.
• Engage with industry associations: Connecting with industry associations or peer networks can provide you with valuable insights into navigating the licensing process. Networking with experienced professionals can help you anticipate challenges and streamline the approval process.
• Maintain ongoing compliance: Obtaining licenses and regulatory approvals is just the first step. Develop robust compliance procedures and internal controls to ensure ongoing adherence to regulatory requirements. Regularly review and update your compliance practices as regulations evolve.

In conclusion, writing a business plan for a bank requires careful research, analysis, and strategic thinking. By following the nine steps outlined in this checklist, you can create a comprehensive and compelling plan that demonstrates the viability of your digital banking platform. From conducting market research to obtaining necessary licenses, each step is crucial in building a strong foundation for your business. Remember to highlight your unique value proposition and competitive advantage, develop a comprehensive financial plan, establish strategic goals, and define your organizational structure. With a well-crafted business plan, you can confidently approach banks and secure the funding needed to bring your digital banking platform to life.

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Writing a Bank Business Plan

• Written By Dave Lavinsky

When it comes to seeking funding from a bank or other financial institution, one of the most important things you can do is have a well-written business plan . This document will not only give potential lenders and investors an idea of your company’s current position and future goals but will also provide them with a clear understanding of the risks involved in lending you money or investing in your business.

What is a Business Plan?

A business plan is a document that provides a detailed description of a business, its products or services, its market, and its financial projections. It is used to secure funding from lenders or investors and to provide guidance for the business’s future operations.

Why Write a Business Plan

There are several reasons why you might want to write a plan for your business, even if you’re not looking for funding, they are:

• To clarify your company’s purpose and direction
• To better understand your industry and customers
• To develop a realistic financial plan and accurate projections
• To identify potential risks and opportunities
• To track your company’s progress over time

An effective and well-written plan is helpful for potential investors and clarifies the plans you have for any future business partners.

Sources of Business Funding for Banks

There are many sources of business funding available to banks, including:

• Equity financing: This is when you sell a portion of your business to investors in exchange for capital. This can be a good option if you need a large amount of money quickly, as it doesn’t require you to pay back the funds over time.
• Debt financing: This is when you borrow money from a lender, such as a bank, in exchange for repayment plus interest. This type of financing can be helpful if you need to keep your cash flow low in the early stages of your business.
• Grants: There are several different government and private grants available to businesses, which can often be used for start-up costs or expansion.
• Venture capital: This is when you receive funding from a venture capitalist in exchange for a portion of your company’s equity. Venture capitalists typically invest their own personal savings in high-growth businesses with a lot of potential.

Resources to Write a Bank Business Plan

To write a bank business plan, you’ll need access to a variety of resources, including:

Sample Plans for Your Business

A good place to start is by looking at some sample plans for businesses in your industry. This will give you a good idea of the types of information to include in your own plan.

Business planning software

There are a number of software programs that can help you create professional-looking plans for your business.

Market Research

When writing a business plan for a bank, it’s important to include a section on your company’s market research. This will include detailed information about your industry, your market, and your competition.

Industry Analysis

In order to accurately describe your industry and the market for your products or services, you’ll need to conduct an industry analysis. This should include information about the size and growth of the industry, the key players in the industry, and any major trends or changes that are taking place.

Target Market Analysis

To effectively market your products or services, you need to understand who your target market is. This should include information about the demographics of your target customers (age, gender, income, etc.), psychographics (lifestyle preferences, interests, etc.), and geographic (location, region).

Competition Analysis

In order to differentiate your business from the competition, you’ll need to know what they’re offering and how they’re positioning themselves in the market. This should include a SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) of your competitors.

Customer Segments

A customer segment is a group of customers who share common characteristics, such as age, income, location, or lifestyle preferences. When creating business plans for a bank, it’s important to identify and target your key customer segments. This will help you focus your marketing efforts and create products and services that appeal to your target market.

There are a variety of ways to segment customers, including:

• Demographics: Age, gender, income, location, etc.
• Psychographics: Lifestyle preferences, interests, etc.
• Behavior: How they interact with your brand, what channels they use to purchase products or services, etc.
• Usage: How often they purchase your product or service, how much they spend, etc.
• Value: How much they’re willing to pay for your product or service, how much they value customer service, etc.

Once you’ve identified your customers, you can create buyer personas. These are fictional characters that represent your ideal customer within each segment. Creating buyer personas will help you better understand your target market and create more effective marketing campaigns.

Financial templates

If you’re not familiar with financial terminology or calculations, use a financial template to help you develop your business’s financial projections as well as including an income statement and balance sheets.

Accounting and Legal Advice 

It’s important to seek out accounting and legal advice from professionals who can help ensure that your business plan is accurate and complete.

Bank Business Plan Template

While there is no one-size-fits-all template for writing a business plan, there are some key elements that should be included. Here is a brief overview of what should be included:

Executive Summary

This is a high-level overview of your company, its products or services, and its financial situation. Be sure to include information on your target market, your competitive advantage, and your plans for growth.

Company Description

This section provides more detail on your company, including its history, structure, and management team. Be sure to include information on your company’s mission and vision, as well as its values and goals.

Products and Services

Here you will describe your company’s products or services in detail, including information on your target market and your competitive advantage.

Market Analysis

In this section, you will provide an overview of your market, including demographic information and information on current and future trends. This is also a good section to add the marketing plan you have developed to appeal to potential customers.

Sales and Marketing

This section will detail your sales and marketing strategy, including information on your pricing, your distribution channels, and your promotion plans.

Financial projections

This is perhaps the most important section of your business plan, as it will provide lenders and investors with an idea of your company’s financial health. Be sure to include detailed information on your past financial performance, as well as your projections for future revenue and expenses. This is also a good section to include your cash flow statements, income statements, and information about any bank accounts opened for your business.

This is where you will include any supporting documents, such as your financial statements, marketing materials, or product data sheets.

While this is not an exhaustive list of everything that should be included in your bank business plan, it covers the most important elements. By taking the time to write a well-thought-out and detailed business plan, you will increase your chances of securing the funding you need to grow your business.

Opening a bank is a detailed and complex process, but it can be enormously rewarding both professionally and financially. The best way to increase your chances of success is to write a business plan that outlines all aspects of opening and running a bank. This document should include market analysis, organizational structure, financial projections, and more. Our team has extensive experience helping entrepreneurs open banks. We have created a comprehensive business plan template that covers all the key points you need to consider when writing your own business plan. By following our template, you can be sure that you haven’t missed any essential elements in your planning process. Investing in professional help when writing your business plan gives you the best chance for success when opening a new bank.

Bank Business Plan Template FAQs

Do i need to use a business plan template.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. If you are seeking funding from a lender or investor, they may have specific requirements for the format and content of your business plan. In other cases, using a template can be helpful in ensuring that you include all of the important information in your plan.

Where can I find a business plan template?

There are a number of resources that offer business plan templates, including the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, many software programs that offer business planning tools also include templates.

How long should my business plan be?

Again, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The length of your business plan will depend on the complexity of your business and the amount of detail you need to include. In general, however, most business plans range from 20 to 50 pages.

Do I need to hire a professional to help me write my business plan?

While you are not required to hire a professional to write your business plan, it may be helpful to do so. A professional can help you ensure that your plan is well-written and free of errors. Additionally, they can offer advice on how to best structure your plan and make it more likely to succeed.

• Business Planning
• Venture Funding

HOW TO WRITE A BANK BUSINESS PLAN: Simple Steps & All You Need (+ Template)

• by Kenechukwu Muoghalu
• August 13, 2023
• No comments
• 6 minute read

Table of Contents Hide

What is a bank business plan, why do i need a bank business plan, #1. executive summary, #2. company overview, #3. customer analysis, #4. competitive analysis, #5. marketing plan, #6. operations plan, #7. management team, #8. financial plan, #9. appendix, bank business plan template, would you want to finish your bank’s business plan as quickly as possible, what is the easiest way to complete my bank business plan, how do banks make money, can an individual own a bank.

Opening a new bank is a cool investment that requires a stipulated level of attention and responsibilities for growth to take place. However, how can you start up a financial facility without a business plan? How do you intend to nurture the goals and growth of your bank business? Every investment needs a business plan and that is why this article has every little detail on what you need to know about this plan. You will also have access to a free template checklist and basic steps on how to write a bank business plan.

We also have a ready-made bank business plan for your comfort, just in case you wish to skip all procedures and get hold of your plan today. 

A bank business plan is a document that provides a snapshot of your bank and lays out its future growth plan. Not just that, it also explains your business goals and gives strategies that can help you attain them. It is more like a road map for success, and without the road map, you cannot get to your desired destination. 

It is also important to note that only a well-detailed and articulated bank business plan can achieve its potential purposes. Your bank’s business plan should also be updated annually to accommodate new changes in your business. 

The essence of a bank business plan can vary from one business owner to another. One can start up a business plan to attract investors or lenders to aid them in raising funds because, like other businesses, the banking industry also requires capital investment on a large scale to start its operations. 

Most of the time, you will need a bank business plan to map out the goals and growth of your bank and excessively improve your chances of success. You can also need a bank business plan for a combination of both reasons. A banking industry business plan plays an important role in the initiation and expansion of banks. Moreover, a business plan for banks is also required by the financial institutions. 

To write a winning bank business plan, you need to understand some basic steps on how to construct a comprehensive and well-detailed plan. Writing a plan comes with some procedures, and you can only yield results in your company when these procedures are followed. Let’s analyze what these procedures entail. 

Simple Steps on How to Write a Bank Business Plan

The executive summary of your bank’s business plan should be an introduction to your business. It is usually the first to appear on the plan but the last to write. This is because you will need some information from other sections. This section should be interesting to your readers. Don’t fail to explain the kind of bank you run, which can be either a startup or a chain of banks. 

Also one of the steps in how to write this section of your bank business plan is to include an overview of your competitors and your financial plan. 

There are different types of banks that one can invest in, and in your company overview, you will need to detail the type of bank you are operating. 

• Commercial Bank

A commercial bank is built to support both large corporations and small businesses. They can open a savings account, and lend money or trust funds to companies in foreign markets. 

• Retail Bank

Retail banks are normally traditional banks that customers can access online or in person. They also offer loans and insurance. 

• Investment Bank

This bank normally trades in stocks that are mostly between companies and investors. They can offer advice to individuals and corporations who need financial guidance. 

• Credit Union

Credit unions are basically like traditional banks, but they are different because they’re not profit-oriented. Regardless, they perform basic operations like loans and providing savings accounts. 

When you indicate the type of bank that suits you, then you will proceed to give a brief introduction of your company. Tell your readers why you started this business and the things you have achieved. 

This is where you include the details of the customers you will be offering your services to. Your customers might be individuals, small businesses, families, or big corporations. It is important to note that each customer will be following the type of bank you run. You will also need to research your customers and try to meet your target audience. 

This is where you need to mention your competitors which can be either direct or indirect. Direct competitors are other banks, and indirect competitors are other options that your potential customers can purchase from. It can be trust accounts, investment companies, or even the stock market. They are not directly competing with your products. 

You will need to list those competitors and give a brief description of their weaknesses and strengths. Then at the end of this section, you can provide how the services you offer are unique from your competitors.

As a financial facility, your marketing strategy should include your products, price, place, and promotions. In the product section, just talk about the type of bank you run, and state the prices of the products you offer as well. The place should be the location of your bank and how that site will impact your success. The promotion is meant to explain how you will attract potential customers to your company, which can be either an advertisement, websites, flyers, or social media platforms. 

The operation plan should explain how you intend to meet the goals of your business. It should cover both the short-term and long-term processes. You should include how you intend to reshape your company within that time frame. 

Just like the name implies, this section should be all about your strong management team. Highlight your key players by including their backgrounds, skills, and experiences that prove that they are capable enough to grow a company. It is a bonus if your management team has had direct experience in managing banks. If your team is lacking, you can consider assembling an advisory board. 

A financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement. It should also cover your income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statements. An income statement should contain your profit and loss statement. A balance sheet will cover your assets and liabilities, while a cash flow statement will determine how much money you need to start and grow your business to avoid going bankrupt. 

In the appendix section, you can include any information that can make your bank business plan more compelling. You can attach your financial projections to a list of loans you plan to give. 

Having learned how to effectively write a bank business plan, you will also need to practice the use of a template. A bank business plan template is essential when starting a bank business. It is with this template checklist that you will understand the full processes that are involved with starting a bank business. So, before you proceed with your investment, you need to keep these steps in check.

• Know the business 
• Write a business plan
• Raise Capital
• Choose a business name
• Get a license 
• Attract customers 

Don’t you wish there was an easier way to finish your bank’s business plan? Understandably, creating a business plan can be overwhelming, but there is a way around it. At BusinessYield Consult, we specialize in creating business plans for entrepreneurs like you. 

That is why we have composed a unique, ready-made bank business plan for your comfort. Now you won’t have to spend hours trying to get over a section of your business plan. 

All you need to do is to grab a copy of your bank business plan now! 

A business plan is essential in every company, whether a big or small business. It tends to bring some changes into every business and also helps you manage that business effectively. Although sometimes creating one for yourself might be a bit daunting, when you follow the steps above, you can come up with a successful bank business plan that will boost the growth of your company.

If you need an easier way to complete your business plan without having to go through the long process of writing one yourself, then you can try our ready-made bank business plan . 

Banks mainly make money by borrowing money from depositors and then compensating them with an interest rate. Then that same bank will lend the money to borrowers and charge them a high-interest rate. It is from that profit that their profit comes.

Yes. There is a possibility of individual ownership but most times individuals commonly buy shares of bank stock which can be directly from the bank or fund managers. 

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Kenechukwu Muoghalu

Kenny, an accomplished business writer with a decade of experience, excels in translating intricate industry insights into engaging articles. Her passion revolves around distilling the latest trends, offering actionable advice, and nurturing a comprehensive understanding of the business landscape. With a proven track record of delivering insightful content, Kenny is dedicated to empowering her readers with the knowledge needed to thrive in the dynamic and ever-evolving world of business.

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Leaked presentation reveals Microsoft's astounding plan to ramp up data-center capacity for the AI boom

• Microsoft's data-center capacity jumped in recent quarters, a leaked internal presentation shows.
• The company is planning even faster data-center growth in the coming quarters.
• Microsoft delivered "record-level GPU capacity," according to the presentation.

Microsoft significantly expanded its data-center capacity recently and plans to ramp up growth to astounding levels going forward, according to an internal document obtained by Business Insider.

Since July 2023, the start of Microsoft's latest fiscal year, the company delivered more than 500 megawatts of new data-center capacity , the document disclosed.

This document was part of a confidential slide deck from the company's Cloud Operations and Innovation team that was presented earlier this year.

Under the heading "Commercial Cloud and AI Demands: Fueling our Expansion," the document said Microsoft surpassed 5 gigawatts of total data-center installed capacity in the first half of its latest fiscal year.

The rise of generative artificial intelligence and huge foundation models is fueling a new data-center boom . Microsoft is leading the way through its partnership with OpenAI , the startup behind ChatGPT and GPT-4 .

These AI models need to be trained on mountains of data and then fine-tuned intensely. That takes thousands of GPUs and a pile of other related gear that's housed in huge data centers. These facilities use so much power that their capacity is measured in megawatts and gigawatts of electricity.

Shaolei Ren , an electrical and computer engineering professor at the University of California, Riverside, said Microsoft's 5 gigawatts of installed data-center capacity, if fully used, would be equivalent to Hong Kong or Portugal's annual electricity consumption.

"Astonishing speed"

It doesn't stop there. The software giant laid out even more radical growth plans for its data-center empire in the document obtained by BI.

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"With a strong Commercial Cloud business, our goal is clear," Microsoft said in this part of the slide presentation.

Microsoft wants to double new data-center capacity in the second half of its fiscal year. This runs from early 2024 to the middle of this year.

In the first half of Microsoft's 2025 fiscal year, which runs from early July through the end of 2024, the company aims to "achieve 3x growth" in new data-center capacity.

This requires Microsoft to deliver more than 200 megawatts in data-center capacity every month.

"This is an astonishing speed," Ren told BI. "This is a very large data-center capacity."

Ren said Microsoft's capacity plans suggested the company was either seeing huge demand or simply wanting to stay competitive by securing future power capacity that otherwise might be taken by competitors.

He added that this also raised questions about the environmental consequences of adding such a large data-center footprint, given the carbon emissions and water consumption of the facilities.

A Microsoft spokesperson declined to comment.

'Record-level GPU capacity'

The company is also securing a record number of GPUs to handle new AI workloads in data centers.

In the second half of last year, Microsoft delivered "record-level GPU capacity," more than doubling its total installed GPU base, the document said, without mentioning actual numbers.

Microsoft's GPU footprint expanded into 39 additional data centers in this period, and the company now has "AI clusters" live in 98 locations globally.

Contact the reporter, Eugene Kim, via the encrypted-messaging apps Signal or Telegram ( +1-650-942-3061 ) or email ( [email protected] ). Reach out using a nonwork device. Check out Business Insider's source guide for other tips on sharing information securely.

Axel Springer, Business Insider's parent company, has a global deal to allow OpenAI to train its models on its media brands' reporting.

Watch: How tech layoffs could affect the economy

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