About the start-up business proposal, how to deal with the marketing forecast?

Question

I am preparing the start-up business proposal recently, I have got some problems on writing the financial section, because financial data such as incomes and part of the expenses may rely on the marketing target/forecast. However, I haven't started by business yet, so I don't know what the marketing result will be. It is hard to predict. If I plan it only depends on my personal expectation, the marketing forcast may exist bias and then less trustworthy to investors.

So, what should I do to make the marketing forecast of my project presented in a reasonable/objective way? Moreover, I would like to know what items are necessary to show in the forecast? Thank you.

Answer 1

Not knowing the type of business or your situation I'm not sure if this helps...

I presume you've already contacted Small Business Admn. (www.sba.gov) and gotten info or a template on writing a business plan.

You are correct, it's difficult to predict; all you can do is enter numbers--however they must be realistic for the type of business.

Try Entrepreneur magazine (www.entrepreneur.com) and search "writing a business plan". They have sample business plans for sale and may for the type of business you're seeking. They also have a section or even a blog where you can get help. Finally, they have access to consultants for hire as you may want to consider that as well.