supporting documents for a business plan

What is an Appendix in a Business Plan?

Appendix is an optional section placed at the end of a document, such as a business plan, which contains additional evidence to support any projections, claims, analysis, decisions, assumptions, trends and other statements made in that document, to avoid clutter in the main body of text.

What is Included in an Appendix of a Business Plan?

Appendix commonly includes charts, photos, resumes, licenses, patents, legal documents and other additional materials that support analysis and claims made in the main body of a business plan document around market, sales, products, operations, team, financials and other key business aspects.

The appendix is the perfect place to showcase a wide range of information, including:

• Supporting documentation: References and supporting evidence to substantiate any major projections, claims, statements, decisions, assumptions, analysis, trends and comparisons mentioned throughout the main body of a business plan.
• Requested documentation: Information, documents or other materials that were specially requested by the business plan readers (e.g., lenders or investors) but are too large to place in the main body of text.
• Additional information: Any other materials or exhibits that will give readers a more complete picture of the business.
• Visual aids: Photos, images, illustrations, graphs, charts, flow-charts, organizational charts, resumes.

After reviewing the appendices, the reader should feel satisfied that the statements made throughout the main body of a business plan are backed up by sufficient evidence and that they got even fuller picture of the business.

How Should You Write a Business Plan Appendix? (Insider Tip)

The fastest way to pull the Appendix chapter together is to keep a list of any supporting documents that come to mind while you are in the process of writing the business plan text.

For example, while writing about the location of your business, you may realize the need for a location map of the premises and the closest competitors, demographic analysis, as well as lease agreement documentation.

Recording these items as you think of them will enable you to compile a comprehensive list of appendix materials by the time you finish writing.

Remember to keep copies of the original documents.

Template: 55 Business Plan Appendix Content Samples

For your inspiration, below is a pretty exhaustive list of supporting documentation that typically gets included in the business plan appendix. But please do not feel like you have to include everything from the list. In fact, you definitely shouldn’t!

The purpose of the appendix is to paint a fuller picture of your business by providing helpful supporting information, not to inundate yourself or the readers of your business plan. So, take care to only include what is relevant and necessary .

Company Description

1. Business formation legal documents (e.g., business licenses, articles of incorporation, formation documents, partnership agreements, shareholder agreements)

2. Contracts and legal agreements (e.g., service contracts and maintenance agreements, franchise agreement)

3. Intellectual property (e.g., copyrights, trademark registrations, licenses, patent filings)

4. Other key legal documents pertaining to your business (e.g. permits, NDAs, property and vehicle titles)

5. Proof of commitment from strategic partners (e.g., letters of agreement or support)

6. Dates of key developments in your company’s history

7. Description of insurance coverage (e.g. insurance policies or bids)

Target Market

8. Highlights of relevant industry and market research data, statistics, information, studies and reports collected

9. Results of customer surveys, focus groups and other customer research conducted

10. Customer testimonials

11. Names of any key material customers (if applicable)

Competition

12. List of major competitors

13. Research information collected on your competitors

14. Competitive analysis

Marketing and Sales

15. Branding collateral (e.g., brand identity kit designs, signage, packaging designs)

16. Marketing collateral (e.g., brochures, flyers, advertisements, press releases, other promotional materials)

17. Social media follower numbers

18. Statistics on positive reviews collected on review sites

19. Public relations (e.g., media coverage, publicity initiatives)

20. Promotional plan (e.g., overview, list and calendar of activities)

21. List of locations and facilities (e.g., offices, sales branches, factories)

22. Visual representation of locations and facilities (e.g., photos, blueprints, layout diagrams, floor plans)

23. Location plan and documentation related to selecting your location (e.g., traffic counts, population radius, demographic information)

24. Maps of target market, highlighting competitors in the area

25. Zoning approvals and certificates

26. Detailed sales forecasts

27. Proof of commitment from strategically significant customers (e.g., purchase orders, sales agreements and contracts, letters of intent)

28. Any additional information about the sales team, strategic plan or process

Products and Services

29. Product or service supporting documentation – descriptions, brochures, data sheets, technical specifications, photos, illustrations, sketches or drawings

30. Third-party evaluations, analyses or certifications of the product or service

31. Flow charts and diagrams showing the production process or operational procedures from start to finish

32. Key policies and procedures

33. Technical information (e.g., production equipment details)

34. Dependency on third-party entities (e.g., materials, manufacturing, distribution) – list, description, statistics, contractual terms, rate sheets (e.g., sub-contractors, shippers)

35. Risk analysis for all major parts of the business plan

Management and Team

36. Organizational chart

37. Job descriptions and specifications

38. Resumes of owners, key managers or principals

39. Letters of reference and commendations for key personnel

40. Details regarding human resources procedures and practices (e.g., recruitment, compensation, incentives, training)

41. Staffing plans

42. Key external consultants and advisors (e.g., lawyer, accountant, marketing expert; Board of Advisors)

43. Board of Directors members

44. Plans for business development and expansion

45. Plan for future product releases

46. Plan for research and development (R&D) activities

47. Strategic milestones

48. Prior period financial statements and auditor’s report

49. Financial statements for any associated companies

50. Personal and business income tax returns filed in previous years

51. Financial services institutions’ details (name, location, type of accounts)

52. Supporting information for the financial model projections, for example:

• Financial model assumptions
• Current and past budget (e.g., sales, marketing, staff, professional services)
• Price list and pricing model (e.g., profit margins)
• Staff and payroll details
• Inventory (e.g., type, age, volume, value)
• Owned fixed assets and projected capital expenditure (e.g., land, buildings, equipment, leasehold improvements)
• Lease agreements (e.g., leases for business premises, equipment, vehicles)
• Recent asset valuations and appraisals
• Aged debtor receivable account and creditor payable account summary
• Global financial considerations (exchange rates, interest rates, taxes, tariffs, terms, charges, hedging)

53. Debt financing – documentation regarding any loans, mortgages, or other debt related financial obligations

54. Equity financing – capital structure documentation (e.g., capitalization table, 409A, investor term sheets, stock and capital related contracts and agreements)

55. Personal finance – information regarding owners’ capital and collateral (e.g., Personal Worth Statement or Personal Financial Statement, loan guarantees, proof of ownership)

Related Questions

How do you finish a business plan.

Business plan is finished by summarizing the highlights of the plan in an Executive Summary section located at the beginning of the document. The business plan document itself is finished by an Appendix section that contains supporting documentation and references for the main body of the document.

What is bibliography?

A bibliography is a list of external sources used in the process of researching a document, such as a business plan, included at the end of that document, before or after an Appendix. For each source, reference the name of the author, publication and title, the publishing date and a hyperlink.

What are supporting documents included in a business plan appendix?

Supporting documents in a business plan appendix include graphs, charts, images, photos, resumes, analyses, legal documents and other materials that substantiate statements made in a business plan, provide fuller picture of the business, or were specifically requested by the intended reader.

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What are Supporting Documents in a Business Plan?

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business Plans

A business plan is critical to the growth and overall success of a company. These plans tend to provide a business with a blueprint for the future and a clear strategy on how to expand. Note that the primary aim of any business plan is to present a vivid overview of the business idea.

And while you may be tempted to add every detail in your plan, note that this would genuinely impede communication and make it more challenging for your reader to understand your business concept, especially since too much information can be distracting and tiring.

Note that you will have to present all necessary information in this section in the sequence mentioned in your business plan.

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As you write your plan, consider referring to the document by number or letter, such as Appendix, Item 1; or Appendix, Item B. For instance, if you are noting your management team, do not include the details of your manager’s background in the body of the business plan. Instead, affix the manager’s résumé in the appendix.

Also, try not to include information that you haven’t referenced in any other section of your plan in this section. The appendix isn’t a filler section.

It is a supporting section, expected to contain vital information necessary for your business idea and crucial in supplementing previously noted information.  Have in mind that there is no limit to what you can include in this section.

If your supporting document or appendix section is large, then inculcate a content list at the beginning to ensure that readers can locate the document quickly. There are certain documents that investors may want to see in your business plan, but this will most definitely vary based on the purpose of your business plan.

13 Supporting Documents to Add to a Business Plan

Detailed financial projections.

If the purpose of your business plan is to raise capital or loan applications, then you will need more detailed projections, including monthly, quarterly, and/or annual cash flow statements, balance sheets, and income statements.

Customer Lists

Have it in mind that this can be helpful for businesses looking to expand their market presence and reach new customers or clients, as well as those who are looking to invest capital into your business.

Company History and Background

Business plans for major businesses will need to include the company history section so that you can make available additional information about your competitors or other companies that are relevant to your business plan. Businesses planning on leveraging their business plan as an internal document can provide less detail here.

Customer Testimonials

Note that testimonials from your current customers are a wonderful way to help other investors and lenders feel more confident in investing or loaning money to your business. You can include supporting documents like online reviews, letters, personal email communications, etc.

Legal Documents

If you’re getting into a partnership, you should consider attaching a copy of your partnership agreement. This appendix might also include contracts, lease agreements, or any other relevant legal documentation.

Intellectual Property Documentation

This will have to be included in your business plan if you have any patents or trademarks registered and might also be helpful if you are leveraging any technologies that other businesses have patented.

Resumes of Key Officers

This is a concise inventory of your personal experiences, your educational background, and any personal information that adds credibility to you as manager or owner of the proposed business. This document should be used to highlight your strengths and show how your work experience increases your chances of success.

Leases & Customer Contracts

Businesses are expected to comply with all leases and customer contracts before seeking investors. You may include rental agreements, copies of key agreements, sample customer contracts, etc.

Letters of Support, Reference, or Credibility

When you are starting a new business or even looking for financing, you should add a list of references or a few reference letters to your business plan to add strength to your case. However, make sure every one of the letters is up-to-date and that those providing the letters are aware of what you intend to do with them.

Certificates and Accreditation

You can also make available any certificates and accreditations that will build your credibility as the owner and manager of your proposed business. When doing this, try not to overdo it, just include the certificates most relevant to the business you’re planning.

Individual & Business Credit History

If you don’t have any valid experience with business credit or borrowing, you should consider adding a short explanation of your current and past financing, including your tax returns and incorporation papers. This is without a doubt very helpful especially if you intend to apply for a loan through the Small Business Administration (SBA).

Quotes or Estimates from Builders, Contractors, Etc.

Businesses that are eager to build or expand their operations will need to include building plans, architectural drawings, permits, quotes, estimates, etc.

Marketing Materials & Plan

Attaching the complete Marketing Plan in the appendix section helps your reader understand if you have thoroughly analyzed your target audience, where you should target your marketing efforts, and how you intend to advertise to them to expand awareness of your brand.

Just as was noted above, there is no limit to what you may include as supporting documents in your business plan. While these documents will vary depending on the aim of your business plan, ensure you list them in a separate table of contents and check the order of the table against the order they are noted in the appendix.

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What to Include in Your Business Plan Appendix

Candice Landau

4 min. read

Updated July 11, 2024

While not required, a well-structured business plan appendix goes a long way toward convincing lenders and investors that you have a great business idea and a viable business.

This article will cover what should be part of the appendix in your business plan and best practices for making it a useful part of your business plan . 

• What is a business plan appendix?

A business plan appendix provides supporting documentation for the other sections of your business plan .  

The appendix for business plans typically comes last and includes any additional documents, spreadsheets, tables, or charts that don’t fit within the main sections of your plan. 

What goes in the appendix of a business plan?

In general, here is some of the information you might include in your business plan appendix:

• Charts, graphs, or tables that support sections of your business plan
• Financial statements and projections
• Sales and marketing materials
• Executive team resumes
• Credit history
• Business and/or personal tax returns
• Agreements or contracts with clients or vendors
• Licenses, permits , patents, and trademark documentation
• Product illustrations or product packaging samples
• Building permit and equipment lease documentation
• Contact information for attorneys , accountants, and advisors

You may include some, all, or none of these documents in your business plan appendix. It depends on your business needs and who you share your business plan with. 

Tip: Like your executive summary , adjusting what’s in your business plan appendix may be helpful based on the intended audience. For example, if you’re applying for a loan, you may add financial statements from the past 2-5 years to show how your business has performed.

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Business plan appendix best practices

Here are a few tips to help you create an appendix for your business plan.

Make it easy to navigate

If your business plan appendix is more than a few pages long or contains a variety of documents, you may want to consider adding a separate table of contents.

Don’t forget security

If you share confidential information within the business plan appendix, you will also want to keep track of who has access to it. 

A confidentiality statement is a good way to remind people that the content you share should not be distributed or discussed beyond the agreed parties. You can include it as a separate page or as part of your business plan cover page .

Make the appendix in your business plan work as a separate document

Given that the appendix is the last part of the business plan, it’s quite likely your readers will skip it. 

For this reason, it’s important to ensure your business plan can stand on its own. All information within the appendix should be supplementary. 

Ask yourself: if the reader skipped this part of my plan, would they still understand my idea or business model ? If the answer is no, you may need to rethink some things.

Connect the appendix to sections of your business plan

Make sure that anything you include in the business plan appendix is relevant to the rest of your business plan. It should not be unrelated to the materials you’ve already covered. 

It can be useful to reference which section of your plan the information in your appendix supports. Use footnotes, or if it’s digital, provide links to other areas of your business plan.

Keep it simple

This is good general advice for your entire business plan. 

Keep it short. 

You don’t need to include everything. Focus on the relevant information that will give your reader greater insight into your business or more detailed financial information that will supplement your financial plan.

Free business plan template with appendix example

Remember, your appendix is an optional supporting section of your business plan. Don’t get too hung up on what to include. You can flag documents and information you believe are worth including in your appendix as you write your plan . 

Need help creating your business plan? 

Download our free fill-in-the-blank business plan template with a pre-structured format for your appendix. 

And to understand what you should include based on your industry—check out our library of over 550 business plan examples .

Business plan appendix FAQ

How do you write an appendix for a business plan?

Gather relevant documents like financial statements, team resumes, and legal permits. Organize them logically, possibly mirroring your business plan’s structure. If long, include a table of contents, ensure each item is relevant, and focus on keeping it simple. If you’re sharing sensitive information, add a confidentiality statement.

Why is a business plan appendix important?

An appendix in your business plan provides supporting evidence for your business plan. It keeps your main plan more concise, enhances credibility with additional data, and can house all-important business documents associated with your business.

What additional information would appear in the appendix of the business plan?

The following can appear in your business plan appendix:

• Financial projections
• Marketing materials
• Team resumes
• Legal documents (like permits and patents)
• Product details (like prototypes and packaging)
• Operational documents (like building permits)
• Professional contact information. 

Candice Landau is a marketing consultant with a background in web design and copywriting. She specializes in content strategy, copywriting, website design, and digital marketing for a wide-range of clients including digital marketing agencies and nonprofits.

Table of Contents

• What goes in the appendix?
• Best practices
• Free template

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What to Include in Your Business Plan Appendix

In the meticulous process of drafting a business plan, the appendix often plays an underestimated yet pivotal role. What are appendices? This segment, known as the “appendix in business plan”, serves as a reservoir for critical supporting documents and data. Far from being a mere afterthought, it is an integral component that complements the main content, offering in-depth details that investors and stakeholders might seek.

Understanding what is an appendix in a business plan is key to leveraging its full potential. It’s a section where you house vital information which, while not central to the plan’s narrative, is essential for substantiating your strategies and projections. 

Moreover, the purpose of including supporting documents in a business plan is to represent the robustness of your research, the depth of your planning, and your readiness for the challenges of the entrepreneurial journey. 

Therefore, in this guide, we will delve deep into the art and science of curating a well-structured and comprehensive business plan appendix. We’ll explore what goes into an appendix, how to organize an appendix effectively, and why a meticulously crafted appendix can be a game-changer for your business venture.

What Goes in An Appendix?

Aside from thinking of how to make an appendix , businesses also often wonder what to include in an appendix when developing a business plan. To answer this common query, this section is where you provide the supplementary material that validates your business plan. Let’s dissect the essential contents that form the backbone of a robust business plan appendix section. The appendix of a business plan might include:

• Detailed Financial Projections: As a cornerstone of appendices in business plan, this includes comprehensive revenue forecasts , cash flow statements , and break-even analysis. These documents elevate your financial strategy from theory to actionable insights.
• Market Research Data: Your business plan appendix example isn’t complete without the data that underscores your market understanding . Include demographic studies, industry analysis, and competitive landscape assessments.
• Resumes of Key Personnel: Illustrate the strength of your team by including detailed resumes. This section answers what goes in the appendix from a human resource perspective, showcasing the expertise and experience driving your business.
• Product or Service Descriptions: Here, an appendix document example involves detailed information about your products or services. This can include brochures, technical specifications, and product development plans.
• Legal Documents: Integral to what should be included in an appendix, this encompasses licenses, permits, patents, trademarks, and any other legal paperwork that is pertinent to your business operations.
• Supporting Letters: The appendix of a business plan includes any endorsements from key stakeholders, such as letters of intent from potential customers or testimonials from partners, adding credibility to your plan.
• Additional Operational Information: This might cover the appendix business plan example components like your organizational chart, facilities descriptions, and equipment listings, depending on the nature of your business.
• Marketing Materials and Strategies: These documents outline your marketing plan appendix. Marketing documentation typically includes advertising samples, press releases, and digital marketing strategies , all vital in illustrating how you intend to capture and grow your market share.

The Don’ts of a Business Plan Appendix

When crafting a business plan appendix, understanding the elements that should not be included is as crucial as knowing what to put in an appendix. The appendix should not be a dumping ground for all information. Avoid overloading it with irrelevant or redundant documents that do not directly support your business strategy .

For instance, what information should not be included in a business plan typically extends to outdated financial statements, overly technical jargon without clear explanations, and any personal or confidential information not pertinent to the business goals.

Additionally, avoid including excessively lengthy documents; the appendix in documents should complement your plan, not overshadow it. Remember, every page in your appendix should have a purpose and add value to your business plan, helping the reader understand and evaluate your business proposition effectively, without unnecessary clutter or distractions.

Understanding why a comprehensive and well-structured appendix is pivotal to business plans is key to elevating your strategy. Why do reports frequently include appendices? The appendix of a report is not just an add-on but a strategic tool that enhances the credibility and depth of your business plan. Business appendix writing should provide essential, supporting details in an organized and accessible way, complementing your vision and illustrating the thoroughness and feasibility of your proposal.

Keep in mind, the appendix is a valuable but optional section of your business plan. There’s no need to stress excessively about its contents. As you develop your plan, simply earmark any pertinent documents or data for inclusion in your appendix.

Struggling with the complexities of crafting your business plan? Get a head start with our no-cost, comprehensive business plan template . It comes complete with a predefined structure that simplifies organizing and presenting your supporting documents effectively.

Not entirely sure what to include in your business plan appendix? In a landscape where precision and foresight are invaluable, let BSBCON help you turn your business plan into a compelling and comprehensive guide to your business’s future.

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