Common SBA Business Plan Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Table of Contents
Introduction
The SBA loan process is competitive. Every year, thousands of applications are delayed—or outright denied—because of weak or incomplete business plans. The good news? Most of these mistakes are completely avoidable if you know what to look out for.
Here are the top five errors we see—and how to fix them before you submit your plan.
Mistake #1: Vague Use of Funds
Saying “We’ll use the money for business growth” isn’t enough. Lenders want a line-by-line breakdown. Instead of being vague, say:
- $60,000 – Leasehold improvements
- $25,000 – Equipment purchase
- $15,000 – Marketing campaigns
Mistake #2: Unrealistic Financial Forecasts
Overestimating revenue or underestimating expenses is a red flag. Lenders will compare your projections to industry norms—and if they don’t align, your plan could be rejected.
Mistake #3: No Market Research
A strong business plan backs up claims with data. Include statistics, competitor analysis, and industry reports to prove your market exists and can sustain your business.
Mistake #4: Weak Management Section
If your leadership team doesn’t have the right experience, lenders may doubt your ability to execute. Highlight transferable skills, past achievements, and advisors who strengthen your credibility.
Mistake #5: Using a Template Without Customization
Generic templates might save time, but lenders can spot them instantly. Your plan should be tailored to your business, market, and loan requirements.
How Wise Business Plans Helps You Succeed
We eliminate these mistakes by:
- Conducting custom research for your industry and location.
- Building accurate, lender-approved financial models.
- Writing clear, compelling narratives that meet SBA standards.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding these pitfalls could be the difference between a “yes” and a costly delay. Work with SBA business plan experts who know exactly what lenders expect.
Schedule your free consultation today.