Even in a business, a 5-year plan plays a very integral role to boost performances and achieve set goals and targets
so the business can grow at an alarming rate, while being smart and steady as well. We did some research and came up
with 5 things one must include in a 5-year plan for MSMEs that can bring about progressive growth for any micro,
small, and medium enterprise.

1) Identify your approach

While the business industry is very vast, it also has many components that one should consider. Some businesses
cater to a B2B approach which means catering to the needs of other businesses, while most MSMEs cater to a B2C
approach which means catering directly to customers in general. Figure out which approach suits your business more,
to plan your strategy accordingly.

2) Define your products and services

When you have a clear picture of your business and the commodities and services that the business has to offer, you
can understand better about the viability and fluctuating demand for your offerings in the market. This will also
help you determine the longevity of the demand. These factors play an integral role in making your business journey
an efficient one.

3) Determine your plan’s breadth

It’s always good to understand the stretching potential or the flexibility of your plan to know which areas your
industry caters to. For example, if your business is in the transport of groceries or vegetables, this will include
having a strong/wide reach with vendors and suppliers of these commodities. Once you identify your industry, it will
help you identify the various resources/vitals that you would need in your business journey.

4) Set your objectives and goals

When an entrepreneur starts a journey, he/she always has some goals and aspirations in mind. Each MSME is founded on
such goals and objectives. List down your short-term and long-term objectives/goals in your business plan. This will
help you efficiently trace your journey towards achieving each of the goals, and identify resources such as
investments and loans that will help you make the most of your journey of business growth.

5) Create financial goals

Create benchmark values in managing the various finances of your business. To elaborate more, create financial
projections or estimations for balance sheets, cash flow and bank statements. Review your financial goals on a
bi-monthly/quarterly/semi-annual basis to keep track of your growth. This will help you understand the financial
sustainability of your business and make better-informed and efficient financial decisions.

A 5-year plan is often one that helps you keep a constant track of your business journey. It not only pushes your
potential, but also affirms you of your business objectives and goals. By including these 5 must-haves, you can also
increase the efficiency of your plan.

Most of all though, a 5-year business plan with the above 5 points in mind, will help you see and reach where you
want to be.