Every good idea starts with a plan. I think that is how the saying goes.

Starting a new business shouldn’t be on a whim. You want to be successful; so, do your homework and plan. Gather some key advisers. Take a day of their time, and ask them to assist you in planning out the details of your new business.

In September 2006, Stacy Brice, owner of AssistU, took six women on a business planning retreat. We sequestered ourselves in Reston, VA for five days to just work on one thing – our new business ideas. Everyday was divided out into alone time and group time, and all of the time was spent sole on the one thing. We met and talked about each person’s new business idea. We gave each other constructive feedback. We brainstormed each new business concept, and that’s how Nonprofit Connectors was conceived.

Although each of us had a different business scenario, and we were all at different stages in our business process, we were still able to assist one another through the planning process. However, just think how much stronger and faster your process will go if you come together and are all focused on the same business solution.

Here are some of the basics areas you should cover in your planning session:*
• Mission statement – Make sure to have your mission statement on hand and use it as a guide. All conversations during your planning process should lead back to your mission statement.
• Goals and objectives – Consider identifying activities that will help you uncover your objectives that will lead to your goals.
• Current resources – Take stock of the current resources you have within the group and the community. This is where you’ll want to take advantage of the participants and really brainstorm ideas.
• Strategic analysis – Now you have a plan! Remember to put realistic dates next to each item. Then don’t forget to add in a review period and an annual planning session to revisit your strategic plan.

*List of items adapted from: Starting & Building a Nonprofit: A Practical Guide by Peri H. Pakroo, J.D.

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