All small businesses need a business plan. Most don’t need Profit & Loss statements and multi-stage expansion projections, especially when starting out. You just need something that will fit on the back of a cocktail napkin, and explains briefly what your business does, who your intended customers are, and how you propose to reach them. Plus, as a “scorecard” of sorts, you should look at your current income, and set a goal for the next year. Below is a sample (and simple) outline.