Summit Valley Press

Secrets to Writing a Successful Business Plan: A Pro Shares a Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Plan that Gets Results by Hal Shelton will open your eyes to insider tips, hints, and techniques for creating a winning business plan and attaining funding.This second edition maintains the original laser focus on writing the plan. It also adds much material on the vibrant crowdfunding platforms as well as providing a new section on issues faced by early stage companies.Nearly 50 percent of new businesses fail within five years. A well-thought-out business plan can dramatically turn the odds in your favor. With this easy-to-follow guide, you will (1) Discover why you need a business plan and the best style for you, (2) Receive step-by-step guidance for creating each section of your plan, (3) Get proven strategies for obtaining bank loans and attracting investors, (4) Spend less time writing your plan and more time setting up your business, and (5) Learn how to create a business plan for a nonprofitThis book is for entrepreneurs who are thinking of starting a small business or nonprofit, and for small business owners who want to grow an existing business or solve an operating problem. This book will also help if you are looking for assurance that you are headed in the right direction, seeking help with a section of your business plan that you do not understand, feeling that a section of your business plan is not robust enough and want pointers, or wanting to learn where and how to apply for funding. Entrepreneurs should always surround themselves with mentors and advisors, so you will also find ideas on where to find these valuable resources. The Secrets to Writing a Successful Business Plan is packed with actionable advice and real-life examples from Shelton’s experience as a senior executive, SCORE small business mentor, and angel investor.

Hal Shelton is a seasoned executive with corporations, nonprofits, and investment organizations. He uses his knowledge and expertise to help small businesses be successful. In the corporate world, Hal was CFO of a NYSE listed alternative energy company for which he quarterbacked its IPO. Hal also held senior financial management positions with an oil and gas company and was on the board of directors of a NASDAQ listed technology company where he led its successful ＂going private＂ transaction. For nonprofits, Hal is a board member and mentor for the SCORE Association - a volunteer organization that provides education and training to small businesses. Hal helps small businesses take advantage of new business opportunities, develop business plans, and find and qualify for financing, with the goal of increasing the business’s value and adding jobs. Also, Hal served on the board/CFO for a health clinic. Hal is a member of Blu Venture Investors (BVI). This active angel investing group supports early-stage entrepreneurs in the Mid-Atlantic Region, with a primary focus on technology companies. Hal serves on the board of directors for three of these companies. Hal holds a BS from Carnegie Mellon University, an MBA from the University of Chicago, and an honors diploma from the University of Vienna, Austria.