The Best Tools to Write a Business Plan in 2025

Why the Right Tools Matter in 2025

Writing a business plan in 2025 is not the same as it was a decade ago. With the rapid evolution of digital technology, AI integration, cloud collaboration, and automation tools, entrepreneurs now have access to an arsenal of resources that can streamline the planning process, enhance clarity, and improve presentation. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur, a startup founder, or a small business owner looking to secure funding, using the right tools can make a significant difference in how your business plan is developed, shared, and received.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best tools available in 2025 for writing a business plan, including AI-powered assistants, collaborative platforms, financial forecasting software, and design tools. We’ll also provide practical tips and use-case examples to help you decide which tool best fits your needs.

1. Google Docs: The Collaborative Staple

Google Docs remains one of the most widely used tools for business plan writing due to its simplicity, accessibility, and real-time collaboration features.

Key Features:

• Cloud-based access from any device

• Real-time collaboration with team members

• Integration with Google Drive, Sheets, Slides, and Forms

• Add-ons for grammar, style, and productivity

Tips:

• Use pre-designed business plan templates from Google Docs Template Gallery

• Share your document with investors using view-only access

• Collaborate with co-founders or advisors by assigning comments and suggestions

Best For:

• Teams working remotely

• Startups and freelancers on a budget

2. LivePlan: Business Plan Software for Beginners and Pros

LivePlan continues to be a top-tier business planning software with an intuitive interface and powerful forecasting tools.

Key Features:

• Step-by-step plan creation with prompts

• Customizable templates and sample plans

• Financial forecasting with automated charts and graphs

• Performance dashboard for tracking goals and KPIs

Tips:

• Use LivePlan’s pitch feature to create a visual one-page overview

• Import accounting data directly from Xero or QuickBooks

• Customize financial models to match your industry

Best For:

• Entrepreneurs seeking funding

• Small businesses needing polished, investor-ready plans

3. Notion: The Modular Productivity Powerhouse

Notion has evolved into an all-in-one platform for note-taking, document creation, databases, and team collaboration. Its flexibility makes it a favorite for tech-savvy founders and creatives.

Key Features:

• Customizable templates for business plans, SWOT analysis, and OKRs

• Database features for market research and competitor tracking

• Integration with tools like Slack, Figma, and Google Calendar

• Clean, minimalist interface

Tips:

• Use toggle lists and linked databases to keep sections organized

• Create a shareable page for public or investor view

• Embed videos, spreadsheets, and visual charts directly into the plan

Best For:

• Tech startups

• Founders who prefer visual organization and flexibility

4. Upmetrics: Guided Planning with a Visual Twist

Upmetrics is a growing player in the business planning space, combining writing assistance with visual planning tools.

Key Features:

• Step-by-step planning guide

• Business model canvas and lean canvas templates

• Financial forecasting with visual breakdowns

• Team collaboration and commenting

Tips:

• Use the AI assistant to generate content drafts

• Explore the sample library for industry-specific inspiration

• Utilize the pitch deck builder to create investor presentations

Best For:

• Entrepreneurs who want a blend of structured guidance and visual design

• Startup accelerators and incubators

5. Bizplan: Fundraising-Focused Planning

Bizplan, part of the Startups.com suite, offers tools tailored for startups aiming to raise capital.

Key Features:

• Drag-and-drop builder for plan sections

• Built-in financial tools for revenue, expenses, and forecasts

• Fundraising tools integrated with investor network

• Business plan templates and educational resources

Tips:

• Connect directly with investors through Fundable.com

• Use performance tracking tools to show traction

• Collaborate with mentors or advisors in-app

Best For:

• Startups preparing for investment rounds

• Founders in the early validation stage

6. Cuttles: Simple, Smart, and Investor-Friendly

Cuttles is an intuitive web-based tool for creating lean business plans that impress investors and grant funders.

Key Features:

• Lean business plan templates

• Visual storytelling tools

• Financial modeling and budgeting

• Team collaboration and sharing options

Tips:

• Highlight team members and their roles using the Team Builder tool

• Share plans with stakeholders using password-protected links

• Take advantage of the Strategy and Roadmap sections

Best For:

• Founders applying for grants or competitions

• New entrepreneurs looking for simplicity and structure

7. Canva: Design-Driven Planning and Presentation

While not a traditional business planning tool, Canva has emerged as a favorite for designing business plans and pitch decks with strong visual appeal.

Key Features:

• Hundreds of business plan and pitch deck templates

• Drag-and-drop design editor

• Brand kit integration

• Collaboration and commenting tools

Tips:

• Create a visual summary of your plan to accompany a formal document

• Use charts, graphs, and infographics for financial data

• Export in multiple formats (PDF, presentation, link)

Best For:

• Designers and creative entrepreneurs

• Startups presenting to visual-first audiences

8. AI Writing Tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Jasper)

AI-powered writing assistants like ChatGPT and Jasper have become essential tools for drafting, editing, and brainstorming content for business plans.

Key Features:

• Content generation based on prompts

• Tone customization and style adjustments

• Built-in research capabilities (in some platforms)

• Productivity enhancements for writing speed

Tips:

• Use AI to create a first draft, then refine for clarity and accuracy

• Ask for bullet points, summaries, or pitch deck scripts

• Double-check AI-generated financials and data

Best For:

• Time-strapped entrepreneurs

• Writers looking to beat writer’s block

9. Excel and Google Sheets: Financial Power Tools

Despite the rise of new platforms, spreadsheets remain vital for financial modeling and analysis.

Key Features:

• Custom formula creation

• Scenario analysis and pivot tables

• Budgeting and forecasting templates

• Chart generation for visual presentations

Tips:

• Link financials to narrative sections of your plan

• Use cloud versions (Google Sheets or Excel Online) for collaboration

• Lock cells and use version control for data integrity

Best For:

• Financially savvy founders

• Businesses with complex financial models

10. Trello and Asana: Planning Execution Tools

These project management tools help bring your business plan to life by organizing execution, timelines, and tasks.

Key Features:

• Task and milestone tracking

• Kanban boards, timelines, and calendars

• Team collaboration and file sharing

• Workflow automation

Tips:

• Turn your business plan into actionable tasks

• Assign deadlines and owners to each section or goal

• Use integrations to link documents, spreadsheets, and calendars

Best For:

• Entrepreneurs focused on execution

• Teams managing cross-functional plans

Choosing the Right Tool for Your Business Plan

The best tool for you depends on your business type, writing style, and end goals. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Tool	Best For	Highlight
Google Docs	Beginners, teams	Easy collaboration, cloud access
LivePlan	Fundraising	Financial forecasting, investor-ready design
Notion	Creatives, tech startups	Visual layout, modular content
Upmetrics	Visual planners	Lean canvas, AI writing support
Bizplan	Fundraising startups	Integrated with investor network
Cuttles	Grant applications	Lean and investor-friendly structure
Canva	Designers	Beautiful pitch decks and visuals
AI Tools	Drafting and ideation	Fast content creation
Spreadsheets	Financials	Detailed modeling and forecasts
Trello/Asana	Implementation	Task management and goal tracking

Tips for Making the Most of Your Tool

1. Start simple and upgrade as needed. Don’t get overwhelmed by features.

2. Combine tools when appropriate. For example, use Notion for drafting, Excel for financials, and Canva for pitch decks.

3. Keep your data organized and secure. Use password-protected files and version control.

4. Share with stakeholders early for feedback.

5. Regularly update your business plan using your chosen tools.

Power Your Plan with the Right Tools

In 2025, writing a business plan is no longer a solo or static task. With the wide array of powerful, intuitive, and intelligent tools available, creating a strategic and compelling business plan is more accessible than ever. Whether you’re bootstrapping a passion project, preparing for your first investment round, or launching a scalable startup, the right tools will save time, reduce stress, and improve your outcomes.

Choose the tools that match your goals, your team, and your workflow. Use them not just to write your business plan—but to execute it with precision and confidence.