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FREE 10+ Business Research Proposal Samples & Templates in PDF | MS Word

A business or organization with proper research has an excellent chance of winning the market. Research is a strategy that helps businesses discover new ideas and factors that will help them in improving business operations, generating concrete action plans, securing a healthy financial status, and more. Hence, it is essential to execute it well. Thus, the purpose of having a  business research  proposal. In this article, you will learn the importance of writing one. Scroll down below.

Business Research Proposal

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In this article, we have provided business research proposal samples and templates that are accessible anytime. These sample templates come with professionally written content and are preformatted in PDF and MS Word file formats for your convenience. Check them out now!

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Business research is a systematic process of collecting, analyzing, interpreting, and presenting information related to a business problem or opportunity. There are several types of business research, each serving different purposes. Here are some common types:

• Aimed at exploring a new area or gaining insights into a phenomenon.
• Helps in understanding the basic nature of a problem.
• Focuses on providing an accurate description of a situation or phenomenon.
• Involves gathering data to characterize and define the subject of study.
• Investigates cause-and-effect relationships between variables.
• Aims to establish a cause-and-effect connection between two or more variables.
• Examines the statistical association between two or more variables.
• Does not imply causation but identifies relationships between variables.
• Involves collecting data from participants at a single point in time.
• Provides a snapshot of the situation or phenomenon.
• Involves collecting data from the same group of participants over an extended period.
• Helps to track changes or developments over time.
• Focuses on numerical data and statistical analysis.
• Involves the use of surveys, experiments, and structured observations.
• Emphasizes understanding and interpreting non-numerical data.
• Involves methods such as interviews, focus groups, and case studies.
• Conducted by practitioners within an organization to solve specific problems.
• Involves a cyclical process of planning, acting, observing, and reflecting.
• In-depth analysis of a specific case or situation.
• Often used to gain a deep understanding of a particular phenomenon.
• Involves collaboration between different functional areas of a business.
• Aims to address complex issues that require input from multiple perspectives.
• Focuses on understanding market trends, customer preferences, and competition.
• Helps businesses make informed decisions about their products or services.
• Involves analyzing data from social media platforms to understand consumer sentiment, trends, and feedback.

These types of business research can be used individually or in combination, depending on the nature of the research question and the goals of the study.

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A business research proposal serves a vital role in research related to business. That is why it is only imperative to ensure that it follows the accurate procedure and should contain the relevant information. Using this allows you to outline the things to be done to gather the right data to be presented in a  research report . So, if you are writing a research proposal for your business and you don’t know-how, then you are on the right page. Below are simple yet useful tips on how to make an informative and effective business research proposal. Read below.

Begin writing your business research proposal by providing the business research title and a brief yet informative research overview. The title should be concise and triggers the curiosity of the management. As for the research overview, it should present the highlight of the research.

The next thing you need to put in your business research proposal is a precise and clear introduction. This section should identify what the research is all about, its scope, and its importance to the business. The introduction should also provide the objectives and sub-objectives of the business study that needs to be achieved.

After the introduction, the next thing you need to do is to present the data gathering procedure. In this section, you have to outline the activities that should be done for the process. And to this, you have to identify the appropriate data gathering methods, whether qualitative or  quantitative research . There are different methods and strategies that you can use. However, you should have to choose the appropriate methodology that will work on your business process.

The next thing you have to include in your business research proposal is the research questionnaire. The list of questions will help you collect relevant and useful data that will complete the research process. In presenting this information, you may use bullet points to make it organized and understandable. 

Finalize your business research proposal by writing a brief conclusion that summarizes the whole idea of your proposals’ content. In this section, you have to emphasize the importance and purpose of research for your business. Also, provide a statement of the several benefits and advantages that the company will gain from the research. 

Having an informative business research proposal is not useful if the people who will read it are not able to grasp the idea the proposal is providing. That is why it is essential to use only simple words and terms that are readable and understandable by your readers. The organization of thoughts is also important. It presents the right structure of information accordingly. 

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This table highlights some key aspects of both the advantages and disadvantages of business research. Keep in mind that the impact of these factors can vary depending on the specific context and industry.

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Researches that are related to businesses are essential for sustainability and success. According to an article from Medium, research is a critical component for businesses, specifically  market research . Hence, business owners should put enough effort into researching to secure a permanent and high spot in the market. And this is where a business research proposal comes useful—the first thing that management should have before research.

A business  research proposal  is a written document used by management for either marketing research,  accounting  research, etc. The business research proposal presents and justifies the purpose of the study to be conducted. This also outlines the ways on how business research should be conducted. The standard length for the business research proposal is two to three pages. Nonetheless, it should be informative and well-written.

There are two types of research proposals that are useful for businesses, organizations, as well as in academic, approval proposals and funding proposals. Approval proposals refer to a written document that is written before doing the actual research. On the other hand, a funding proposal refers to a written document that seeks research funds.

A research proposal must present the idea of what the research is about and its importance. Thus, it should include a clear research title, a research overview, an introduction, the questionnaire, data gathering methods, and a research timeline. These components are commonly used in business and academic research.

Begin a business research proposal with a concise introduction outlining the research problem, its significance, and the proposed methodology. Clearly state the objectives and expected outcomes to provide a solid foundation for the study.

Business research plays a crucial role in informing strategic decisions by gathering, analyzing, and interpreting relevant data. It guides organizations in understanding market trends, consumer behavior, and industry dynamics for informed decision-making and sustainable growth.

Ethics in business research involves adhering to principles of integrity, honesty, and fairness. It ensures researchers conduct studies responsibly, respect participants’ rights, and maintain confidentiality, fostering trust and credibility.

Business research is one of the most important components of a sustainable and successful business. With this, businesses or organizations will be able to grasp new ideas that they can use to enhance their operations and improve  marketing strategies . Hence, making sure that business research follows the standard format and obtains the necessary information. Thus, the use of a business research proposal to make the process comprehensive and effective.

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How to Write a Research Proposal: (with Examples & Templates)

Table of Contents

Before conducting a study, a research proposal should be created that outlines researchers’ plans and methodology and is submitted to the concerned evaluating organization or person. Creating a research proposal is an important step to ensure that researchers are on track and are moving forward as intended. A research proposal can be defined as a detailed plan or blueprint for the proposed research that you intend to undertake. It provides readers with a snapshot of your project by describing what you will investigate, why it is needed, and how you will conduct the research.  

Your research proposal should aim to explain to the readers why your research is relevant and original, that you understand the context and current scenario in the field, have the appropriate resources to conduct the research, and that the research is feasible given the usual constraints.  

This article will describe in detail the purpose and typical structure of a research proposal , along with examples and templates to help you ace this step in your research journey.  

What is a Research Proposal ?  

A research proposal¹ ,²  can be defined as a formal report that describes your proposed research, its objectives, methodology, implications, and other important details. Research proposals are the framework of your research and are used to obtain approvals or grants to conduct the study from various committees or organizations. Consequently, research proposals should convince readers of your study’s credibility, accuracy, achievability, practicality, and reproducibility.   

With research proposals , researchers usually aim to persuade the readers, funding agencies, educational institutions, and supervisors to approve the proposal. To achieve this, the report should be well structured with the objectives written in clear, understandable language devoid of jargon. A well-organized research proposal conveys to the readers or evaluators that the writer has thought out the research plan meticulously and has the resources to ensure timely completion.  

Purpose of Research Proposals  

A research proposal is a sales pitch and therefore should be detailed enough to convince your readers, who could be supervisors, ethics committees, universities, etc., that what you’re proposing has merit and is feasible . Research proposals can help students discuss their dissertation with their faculty or fulfill course requirements and also help researchers obtain funding. A well-structured proposal instills confidence among readers about your ability to conduct and complete the study as proposed.  

Research proposals can be written for several reasons:³  

• To describe the importance of research in the specific topic  
• Address any potential challenges you may encounter  
• Showcase knowledge in the field and your ability to conduct a study  
• Apply for a role at a research institute  
• Convince a research supervisor or university that your research can satisfy the requirements of a degree program  
• Highlight the importance of your research to organizations that may sponsor your project  
• Identify implications of your project and how it can benefit the audience  

What Goes in a Research Proposal?    

Research proposals should aim to answer the three basic questions—what, why, and how.  

The What question should be answered by describing the specific subject being researched. It should typically include the objectives, the cohort details, and the location or setting.  

The Why question should be answered by describing the existing scenario of the subject, listing unanswered questions, identifying gaps in the existing research, and describing how your study can address these gaps, along with the implications and significance.  

The How question should be answered by describing the proposed research methodology, data analysis tools expected to be used, and other details to describe your proposed methodology.   

Research Proposal Example  

Here is a research proposal sample template (with examples) from the University of Rochester Medical Center. 4 The sections in all research proposals are essentially the same although different terminology and other specific sections may be used depending on the subject.  

Structure of a Research Proposal  

If you want to know how to make a research proposal impactful, include the following components:¹  

1. Introduction  

This section provides a background of the study, including the research topic, what is already known about it and the gaps, and the significance of the proposed research.  

2. Literature review  

This section contains descriptions of all the previous relevant studies pertaining to the research topic. Every study cited should be described in a few sentences, starting with the general studies to the more specific ones. This section builds on the understanding gained by readers in the Introduction section and supports it by citing relevant prior literature, indicating to readers that you have thoroughly researched your subject.  

3. Objectives  

Once the background and gaps in the research topic have been established, authors must now state the aims of the research clearly. Hypotheses should be mentioned here. This section further helps readers understand what your study’s specific goals are.  

4. Research design and methodology  

Here, authors should clearly describe the methods they intend to use to achieve their proposed objectives. Important components of this section include the population and sample size, data collection and analysis methods and duration, statistical analysis software, measures to avoid bias (randomization, blinding), etc.  

5. Ethical considerations  

This refers to the protection of participants’ rights, such as the right to privacy, right to confidentiality, etc. Researchers need to obtain informed consent and institutional review approval by the required authorities and mention this clearly for transparency.  

6. Budget/funding  

Researchers should prepare their budget and include all expected expenditures. An additional allowance for contingencies such as delays should also be factored in.  

7. Appendices  

This section typically includes information that supports the research proposal and may include informed consent forms, questionnaires, participant information, measurement tools, etc.  

8. Citations  

Always ensure to cite all sources referred to while writing the proposal. Any citation method could be used as long as it is consistent and adheres to a specific format.

Important Tips for Writing a Research Proposal  

Writing a research proposal begins much before the actual task of writing. Planning the research proposal structure and content is an important stage, which if done efficiently, can help you seamlessly transition into the writing stage. 3,5  

The Planning Stage  

• Manage your time efficiently. Plan to have the draft version ready at least two weeks before your deadline and the final version at least two to three days before the deadline.
• What is the primary objective of your research?  
• Will your research address any existing gap?  
• What is the impact of your proposed research?  
• Do people outside your field find your research applicable in other areas?  
• If your research is unsuccessful, would there still be other useful research outcomes?  

  The Writing Stage  

• Create an outline with main section headings that are typically used.  
• Focus only on writing and getting your points across without worrying about the format of the research proposal , grammar, punctuation, etc. These can be fixed during the subsequent passes. Add details to each section heading you created in the beginning.   
• Ensure your sentences are concise and use plain language. A research proposal usually contains about 2,000 to 4,000 words or four to seven pages.  
• Don’t use too many technical terms and abbreviations assuming that the readers would know them. Define the abbreviations and technical terms.  
• Ensure that the entire content is readable. Avoid using long paragraphs because they affect the continuity in reading. Break them into shorter paragraphs and introduce some white space for readability.  
• Focus on only the major research issues and cite sources accordingly. Don’t include generic information or their sources in the literature review.  
• Proofread your final document to ensure there are no grammatical errors so readers can enjoy a seamless, uninterrupted read.  
• Use academic, scholarly language because it brings formality into a document.  
• Ensure that your title is created using the keywords in the document and is neither too long and specific nor too short and general.  
• Cite all sources appropriately to avoid plagiarism.  
• Make sure that you follow guidelines, if provided. This includes rules as simple as using a specific font or a hyphen or en dash between numerical ranges.  
• Ensure that you’ve answered all questions requested by the evaluating authority.  

Key Takeaways   

Here’s a summary of the main points about research proposals discussed in the previous sections:  

• A research proposal is a document that outlines the details of a proposed study and is created by researchers to submit to evaluators who could be research institutions, universities, faculty, etc.  
• Research proposals are usually about 2,000-4,000 words long, but this depends on the evaluating authority’s guidelines.  
• A good research proposal ensures that you’ve done your background research and assessed the feasibility of the research.  
• Research proposals have the following main sections—introduction, literature review, objectives, methodology, ethical considerations, and budget.  

Frequently Asked Questions  

Q1. How is a research proposal evaluated?  

A1. In general, most evaluators, including universities, broadly use the following criteria to evaluate research proposals . 6  

• Significance —Does the research address any important subject or issue, which may or may not be specific to the evaluator or university?  
• Content and design —Is the proposed methodology appropriate to answer the research question? Are the objectives clear and well aligned with the proposed methodology?  
• Sample size and selection —Is the target population or cohort size clearly mentioned? Is the sampling process used to select participants randomized, appropriate, and free of bias?  
• Timing —Are the proposed data collection dates mentioned clearly? Is the project feasible given the specified resources and timeline?  
• Data management and dissemination —Who will have access to the data? What is the plan for data analysis?  

Q2. What is the difference between the Introduction and Literature Review sections in a research proposal ?  

A2. The Introduction or Background section in a research proposal sets the context of the study by describing the current scenario of the subject and identifying the gaps and need for the research. A Literature Review, on the other hand, provides references to all prior relevant literature to help corroborate the gaps identified and the research need.  

Q3. How long should a research proposal be?  

A3. Research proposal lengths vary with the evaluating authority like universities or committees and also the subject. Here’s a table that lists the typical research proposal lengths for a few universities.  

Q4. What are the common mistakes to avoid in a research proposal ?  

A4. Here are a few common mistakes that you must avoid while writing a research proposal . 7  

• No clear objectives: Objectives should be clear, specific, and measurable for the easy understanding among readers.  
• Incomplete or unconvincing background research: Background research usually includes a review of the current scenario of the particular industry and also a review of the previous literature on the subject. This helps readers understand your reasons for undertaking this research because you identified gaps in the existing research.  
• Overlooking project feasibility: The project scope and estimates should be realistic considering the resources and time available.   
• Neglecting the impact and significance of the study: In a research proposal , readers and evaluators look for the implications or significance of your research and how it contributes to the existing research. This information should always be included.  
• Unstructured format of a research proposal : A well-structured document gives confidence to evaluators that you have read the guidelines carefully and are well organized in your approach, consequently affirming that you will be able to undertake the research as mentioned in your proposal.  
• Ineffective writing style: The language used should be formal and grammatically correct. If required, editors could be consulted, including AI-based tools such as Paperpal , to refine the research proposal structure and language.  

Thus, a research proposal is an essential document that can help you promote your research and secure funds and grants for conducting your research. Consequently, it should be well written in clear language and include all essential details to convince the evaluators of your ability to conduct the research as proposed.  

This article has described all the important components of a research proposal and has also provided tips to improve your writing style. We hope all these tips will help you write a well-structured research proposal to ensure receipt of grants or any other purpose.  

References  

• Sudheesh K, Duggappa DR, Nethra SS. How to write a research proposal? Indian J Anaesth. 2016;60(9):631-634. Accessed July 15, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5037942/  
• Writing research proposals. Harvard College Office of Undergraduate Research and Fellowships. Harvard University. Accessed July 14, 2024. https://uraf.harvard.edu/apply-opportunities/app-components/essays/research-proposals  
• What is a research proposal? Plus how to write one. Indeed website. Accessed July 17, 2024. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/research-proposal  
• Research proposal template. University of Rochester Medical Center. Accessed July 16, 2024. https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/MediaLibraries/URMCMedia/pediatrics/research/documents/Research-proposal-Template.pdf  
• Tips for successful proposal writing. Johns Hopkins University. Accessed July 17, 2024. https://research.jhu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Tips-for-Successful-Proposal-Writing.pdf  
• Formal review of research proposals. Cornell University. Accessed July 18, 2024. https://irp.dpb.cornell.edu/surveys/survey-assessment-review-group/research-proposals  
• 7 Mistakes you must avoid in your research proposal. Aveksana (via LinkedIn). Accessed July 17, 2024. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/7-mistakes-you-must-avoid-your-research-proposal-aveksana-cmtwf/  

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• How to Avoid Plagiarism When Using Generative AI Tools
• What is Hedging in Academic Writing?  

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Blog Business How to Write Business Proposal (Examples + Free Templates)

How to Write Business Proposal (Examples + Free Templates)

Written by: Aditya Sheth Jan 25, 2024

The great Mark Cuban once said, “Sales cure all.” If a business doesn’t sell, it doesn’t make money and by extension the business fails. That’s why you need to write business proposals .

A well-written business proposal and its presentation can often mean the difference between winning or losing a prospective client.

In this in-depth guide to creating business proposals, we show you how to close more deals, make more sales and crush your business growth goals — all by using easy-to-edit professional business proposal templates .

Here’s what this guide will cover (click to jump ahead):

What is a business proposal, what are the components of a business proposal.

• How to write a business proposal step by step

More business proposal examples + writing and design tips

What should you include in a business proposal, what are the types of business proposals.

• FAQs about business proposals

Looking for a shortcut? Watch this quick video for an overview of everything to include in your business proposal:

A business proposal is a document designed to outline a business plan to convince potential client, stakeholders, investors or partners to engage in a business agreement with you or your company. It’s basically a sales pitch in writing to persuade potential clients (and secure investment) to show them benefits of working with you or your company for their business success.

A business proposal outlines what your business does and what you can do for your client . It can be general like this business proposal example:

Or it can be more specific, like this business proposal template which focuses on proposing a project for the Newton Center Rail:

Or this business proposal sample, which presents a plan for a social media strategy and campaign:

To design a business proposal that holds the client’s attention, identify their pain points. Then provide your buyer with the right solution to alleviate those frustrations and showcase how they’ll gain a competitive advantage in their industry.

Working on a new project? These project proposal examples might come in handy for you.

The components of a business proposal can change depending on the field, company size and client needs. While details may differ, strong proposals typically introduce your company, explain the problem, offer a solution and its benefits, highlight your team’s skills, and outline timeline, cost and next steps.

Sometimes, the complexity of crafting a business proposal, especially in projects requiring thorough market analysis or technical details, calls for professional insight. Seeking research proposal writing help can be invaluable in these instances, ensuring that your business proposals are not only well-structured but also highly persuasive and tailored to meet specific client needs.

How to write a business proposal step by step

Before you start creating your business proposal template, you need to understand the business proposal format. At a high level, your effective business proposal should include the following:

• Create a compelling business proposal title
• Build a table of contents
• Craft the executive summary
• Write a detailed problem statement
• Propose your solutions
• Showcase your team’s expertise
• Create a realistic timeline
• Present your payment structure
• Specify the terms and conditions
• Receiving the decision

Below, you can see business proposal examples that demonstrate how to include these 10 sections.

1. Create a compelling business proposal title

A compelling title could mean the difference between someone reading your proposal or ignoring it in favor of a competitor’s. 

What makes a good title page? Here are the essential elements to include: 

• Your name along with your company’s name
• The name of the prospect (or their business) 
• The date you’re submitting the proposal

The gray business consulting proposal template above contains all the details a prospect would want to know. The title also offers a strong tangible benefit to the prospective buyer. Honestly, “Who doesn’t want to grow their business?”

2. Build a table of contents

The table of contents is a fundamental part of every winning business proposal template. It makes your proposal scannable and easy to read, setting the stage for a smooth negotiation process.

The people you will be pitching to are usually C-level executives like the CEO (Chief Executive Officer), COO (Chief Operating Officer), or fractional executives who work part-time. These are busy people who don’t have time to read your entire proposal in one go.

That’s why most of the business proposal examples in this list include a table of contents.

Adding a table of contents to your document makes it easy for them to go through it at their own pace. They can also skim through parts of the proposal that they deem more important. You can see how this abstract business proposal template uses the table of contents:

You can also make your business proposal template easier to navigate by adding hyperlinks to the document, particularly in the table of contents. This way your clients can jump to specific sections without having to scroll through the entire document. Ensuring your business plan format follows a clear structure can greatly enhance readability and comprehension for potential investors or partners.

It’s easy to add hyperlinks in the Venngage editor. Select the text you’d like to turn into a link, then click the link icon in the top bar. From there, select the page you want to link to! Then download your completed design as an Interactive PDF .

3. Craft the executive summary

The executive summary is a staple in all kinds of annual reports , leadership development plan, project plans and even marketing plans. It is a concise summary of the entire contents of your document. In other words, write a business proposal outline that is easy to glance over and that highlights your value proposition. Consider using email software like SendGrid to streamline communication with your prospects, which can reinforce the key points in your executive summary and keep your message consistent.

The goals of your executive summary are:

• Introduce your company to your buyer
• Provide an overview of your company’s goals and objectives
• Showcase your company’s milestones, overall vision and future plans
• Include any other relevant details like funding sources and strategic objectives

This gray business proposal example has a detailed yet short executive summary including some social proof in the form of clients they’ve worked with:

Take note of how precise this business proposal example is. You want to keep your executive summary concise and clear from the get-go. This sets the right tone for the rest of your proposal. It also gives your buyer a reason to continue reading your proposal.

Crafting an executive summary and keeping it concise and compelling can be challenging, but you can use an AI summarizer online or an AI proposal generator to create a polished document or executive summary. Such tools are trained on relevant AI models that can extract core points from a given text. You can get such a point either in bullet form or in abstract summary form.

Pro Tip: Try to write an executive summary such that, even if your prospective client doesn’t read the entire proposal (with a good executive summary, they most likely will), they should have a clear idea about what your company does and how you can help them.

4. Write a detailed problem statement

The point of writing a business proposal is to solve a buyer’s problem. Your goal is to outline the problem statement as clearly as possible. This develops a sense of urgency in your prospect. They will want to find a solution to the problem. And you have that solution.

 A well-defined problem statement does two things: 

• It shows the prospect you have done your homework instead of sending a generic pitch
• It creates an opportunity for you to point out a problem your prospect might not be aware they had in the first place. 

This bold business proposal template above clearly outlines the problem at hand and also offers a ray of hope i.e. how you can solve your prospect’s problem. This brings me to… 

5. P ropose your solutions

The good stuff. In the proposed solution section, you show how you can alleviate your prospective buyer’s pain points. This can fit into the problem statement section but if you have a comprehensive solution or prefer to elaborate on the details, a separate section is a good idea.

Spare no details regarding the solution and implementation process you will provide. When you write a business proposal, explain how you plan to deliver the solution, along with key projections for expected results and growth. Include an estimated timeline of when they can expect your solution and other relevant details.

For inspiration, look at how this business proposal template quickly and succinctly outlines the project deliverables , plan and metrics:

6. Showcase your team’s expertise

At this point, the prospect you’re pitching your solution to likes what they’re reading. But they may not trust you to deliver on your promises. Why is this?

It’s because they don’t know you. Your job is to convince them that you can fix their problem. This section is important because it acts as social proof. You can highlight what your company does best, how it has helped clients meet revenue and growth targets, and how qualified your team is when you write a business proposal for a potential client.

This free business proposal template showcases the company’s accolades, client testimonials, relevant case studies, and industry awards. You can also include other forms of social proof to establish yourself as a credible business. This makes it that much more likely that they will say yes!

Pro Tip: Attaching in-depth case studies of your work is a great way to build trust with a potential client by showcasing how you’ve solved similar problems for other clients in the past. Our case study examples post can show you how to do just that.

7. Create a realistic timeline

To further demonstrate just how prepared you are, it’s important to outline the next steps you will take should your buyer decide to work with you.

Provide a timeline of how and when you will complete all your deliverables. You can do this by designing a  flow chart . Or add a  roadmap  with deadlines. Pitching a long-term project? A timeline infographic would be a better fit.

If you look at this abstract business proposal template below, even something as simple as a table can do the trick.

The timeline is not always set in stone, rather it’s an estimation. The goal is to clarify any questions your potential client might have about how you will deliver for the underlying B2B sales process.

8. Present your payment and terms

On this page, you can outline your fees, payment schedule, invoice payment terms , as well as legal aspects involved in this deal. You can even use the Excel Invoice Template to create professional-looking invoices (including brand logo and other elements) and add them to this page.

The adoption of invoice templates is beneficial for small businesses as it streamlines the invoicing process and maintains professionalism in financial dealings. Also, by utilizing small business invoice templates, you can efficiently manage invoicing tasks while upholding a polished and structured approach to financial transactions.

The key to good pricing is to provide your buyer with options. A  pricing comparison table can help with this. You want to give your client some room to work with. Make sure you’re not scaring off your client with a high price, nor undervaluing yourself. 

Breaking up your pricing in stages is another great way to make sure your potential client knows what he’s paying for. Look at how this simple business proposal template does this:

The legal aspects can slot right into the terms and conditions section. Alternatively, you can add them to the signature section of the proposal to keep things simple.

9. Specify the terms and conditions

Summarize everything you have promised to deliver so far. Include what you expect from your prospective buyer in return.   Add the overall project timeline from start to end, as well as payment methods and payment schedule, incorporating these details into an online project management tool . This way, both of you will be clear on what is being agreed on.

This step is very important as it outlines all the legal aspects of the deal. That is why the terms and conditions section of your proposal needs to be as clear as possible.

I recommend consulting a lawyer or your legal team when working on this section of the business proposal. If you’re a business veteran and understand the legalities of your business, you can use the same terms and conditions across all your proposals.

10. Receiving the decision

The final step of this whole process. Your client has read your business proposal and they want to buy what you have to offer.

Add a small section at the end of your proposal to get the necessary signatures. This way, you and your client can sign the proposal and ensure your contract and partnership becomes official.

Be sure to also include your contact information in your business proposal template. It acts as a gentle prompt to your client to contact you in case they have any questions. A professional way of doing that would be to include an e-business card with your contact details, email i.d and any other social links you want to share.

Now that you know how to write a business proposal, let’s look at how you can optimize your proposal to deliver results!

Below you’ll find some winning business proposal templates and examples to get you started. I’ve also included some design tips to keep in mind when you’re creating your next business proposal: 

1. Know your audience 

If you have some clarity on who your ideal buyer is — their pain points, their budget, deadlines, among other things — you’ve already won half the battle.

If you are a business that helps clients with everything from running giveaways or helping grow their blog, identify which customers to pitch. This is a sure-shot way to close the deal.

Mapping user personas  for your ideal buyer can help bring some clarity. It will also help you position your business proposal correctly. This improves the chance of your buyer moving your business proposal to the “Yes!” pile.

2. Put your brand front and center

If your company follows certain brand guidelines, incorporate them in your business proposal templates. Consider how business proposal examples like the one below highlight brand identity :

From the color palettes to the company logos, everything follows their brand guidelines. The result: a business proposal that’s consistent across the board.

Pro Tip: Switching this template to match your brand assets is actually pretty easy. Venngage’s My Brand Kit feature allows you to import your color palettes, logos as well as font choices. Any Venngage template can now be your template.

You can also consider this sample business proposal template:

App design companies sure do know their design. They did a phenomenal job keeping their brand colors consistent while opting for a black design. This unique color scheme also makes their white logo prominent throughout the proposal.

3. Try less text, more visuals

Have you ever read a proposal and thought to yourself, “Wow, this is all text and has no images, I love it!”? Yeah, me neither.

The free business proposal template below is a perfect example of the “less is more” principle. It does a phenomenal job of communicating what it needs to. By substituting some of the text with icons and visuals, you get a clean business proposal that’s much more scannable.

Want to keep things strictly professional? Instead of icons, you can always add your team’s headshots. This shows your buyer exactly who they’ll be working with.  

Check out this formal business proposal format for some inspiration:

4. Switch up your business proposal designs

It doesn’t hurt to go above and beyond once in a while. Jazz up your business proposal template with some extra colors. This helps make your business proposal more engaging. It also helps your buyers retain information faster.

The business proposal example alternates between black, white and grey backgrounds. It still manages to maintain consistency in its branding . Just switching up your backgrounds once in a while can also bring in some variety to an otherwise standard business proposal.

This SEO business proposal sample proves that it’s possible to switch up the colors in every other page. But it still maintains the same color scheme across the entire proposal just like a professionally designed website. It’s an approach that makes this proposal competitive.

Pro Tip: Not a color expert? Our guide on picking colors can help you pick the right color scheme for your proposals.

A business proposal usually aims to answer the following questions: 

• Who you are and what your company does
• The problem your buyer is facing
• The solution your company offers to alleviate the problem
• How your company will implement this solution effectively
• An estimate of resources (time, money, etc) required to implement the solution

You can see how this sample business proposal template covers the above points.

Notice how this proposal template addresses the same project like in one of the previous templates, but uses a completely different design style (more retro, while the previous business proposal template is more modern and minimalistic).

Generally, there are three types of business proposals:

1. Formally solicited 

A formally solicited business proposal is made when you respond to an official request to write a business proposal.

In this scenario, you know all the requirements and have more (if not all) information about a prospective buyer. You simply need to write the business proposal for your buyer to evaluate so you can begin the sales process .

2. Informally solicited 

Informally solicited business proposals are written when there isn’t an official request for a proposal. A prospective buyer is interested in your services and asks for a proposal so they can evaluate it.

An informally solicited proposal requires a lot more research from your end. These types of proposals are usually created out of informal conversations. They are not based on official requests which often contain more detail.

3. Unsolicited 

Think of this as a marketing brochure or a cold email . Unsolicited business proposals will often take a generic, one-size-fits-all approach to business proposals. Unsolicited proposals lack any understanding of the buyer or their requirements.

But with additional market research, personalization and identifying customer pain points, you can propose a customized solution based on your buyer’s needs. This can be a very persuasive approach, such as in this business proposal example:

FAQ about business proposals

What is the purpose of a business proposal.

A business proposal aims to streamline the B2B sales process (which is often complex) between you as a seller and a buyer.

It does this by serving the dual purpose of acting as a source of information. The proposal also acts as a sales pitch aimed at convincing your buyer why they should buy what you have to offer.

What are the best practices for business proposal design?

• Do a thorough spell-check. The goal of your business proposal is to convince your buyer why you’re the perfect person for the job. A proposal with typos or grammatical errors communicates the opposite. A thorough spell-check before you send your proposal is a must.
• Keep things clear and readable: Clarity is an important aspect that you have to ensure in your business proposal. If you want your proposal to hit home and make an impact on the buyer, you have to write it in an understandable way. To keep things clear and readable, there are a couple of things that you can do. You can, for one, take care to use easy wording and segmented sentences from the get-go. You can also try paraphrasing the hard parts of your proposal once you are done writing it.
• Let your brand shine. As discussed before, writing a business proposal is all about knowing your ideal buyer and focusing on their pain points. But that doesn’t mean your business proposal template has to be boring. Demonstrate how different you are compared to other companies. You can do this through your brand guidelines, by using more visuals, switching up your proposal design or showing off your personality in your writing . 
• Create a business proposal PDF. Downloading your business proposal in PDF format allows you to attach other collaterals with your business proposal. These can include a company explainer video or case studies showcasing the work done with past clients. Also, who doesn’t love saving paper?

How long should your business proposal be? 

The length depends on the scope of the work as well as the complexity of the project. Here is a one-page business proposal template:

Can your business proposal template really be one page? Yes, as long as you understand who your buyer is and their pain points. You should also have the ability to communicate everything your ideal buyer needs to know about your business in a succinct manner.

Or if you’re feeling adventurous how about just two pages? Often, clients prefer if you go straight to the point and avoid all the fluff.

For example, this green modern marketing proposal template wastes no time in getting down to brass tacks:

Need more inspiration? Check out this blog on the 5 marketing proposal examples that’ll help elevate your business.

There is no one size fits all approach when it comes to deciding how many pages you should include in your business proposal template. And at the end of the day, “the only rules are the ones you set for yourself”.

At the end of the day, writing winning business proposals that sell is all about you understanding your buyer, their potential pain points and positioning yourself as someone who can alleviate those pain points. 

Now that you know how to write compelling business proposals, what are you waiting for?

Take action and start creating your own business proposals to close more deals and grow your business today!

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Business Research Proposal Template: A Comprehensive Guide + Free Template Download + How to Write it

Business research proposal template: a comprehensive guide.

As a business professional, I understand the value of conducting thorough research before making any strategic decisions. A well-crafted research proposal is essential in providing a clear roadmap for the study, and can significantly impact the success of the project. However, creating an effective proposal can be a daunting task without the right framework.

This is where a Business Research Proposal Template comes in. It provides a standardized format and guidelines for outlining the research objectives , methodology, and expected outcomes . Unlike a standard proposal, a research proposal template is specifically tailored to address the unique aspects of conducting business research, taking into account factors such as market analysis, competitive landscape , and potential impact on the organization’s bottom line. In this article, we will explore the importance of using a Business Research Proposal Template and how it can help streamline the proposal writing process for business professionals.

Business Research Proposal Template

1. title of the research.

Example: The Impact of Social Media Marketing on Consumer Behavior in the Beauty Industry

My advice on choosing a research title is to make it clear, concise, and relevant to your field of study. It should accurately reflect the focus of your research and capture the interest of potential stakeholders.

2. Background and Justification

Example: The beauty industry has witnessed a substantial increase in the use of social media marketing in recent years. As a result, the behavior and purchasing patterns of consumers have been significantly influenced. Understanding the impact of social media marketing on consumer behavior is crucial for businesses in the beauty industry to develop effective marketing strategies and improve their overall performance.

My advice on writing the background and justification section is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of the industry and the specific problem or opportunity that your research aims to address. Clearly outline why your research is important and how it will contribute to the existing body of knowledge.

3. Research Objectives

Example: The main objectives of this research are to analyze the effectiveness of social media marketing strategies employed by beauty brands, to examine the influence of social media on consumer purchasing behavior, and to identify key factors that drive consumer engagement with beauty-related content on social media platforms.

My advice on outlining research objectives is to make them specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Clearly define what you intend to accomplish with your research and how you will measure its success.

4. Research Methodology

Example: This research will utilize a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Qualitative data will be gathered through in-depth interviews with marketing professionals and focus group discussions with consumers, while quantitative data will be obtained through surveys and social media analytics .

My advice on describing the research methodology is to provide a clear and detailed explanation of the data collection methods , sampling techniques, and data analysis procedures that you plan to use. Justify why the chosen methodology is appropriate for addressing your research objectives .

5. Data Analysis Plan

Example: The qualitative data gathered from interviews and focus groups will be analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and themes related to social media marketing and consumer behavior. The quantitative data from surveys and social media analytics will be analyzed using statistical software to measure correlations and trends.

My advice on outlining the data analysis plan is to demonstrate your understanding of the analytical techniques that will be employed to interpret the data collected. Clearly explain how the analysis will help address the research objectives and contribute to the overall findings.

6. Anticipated Outcomes

Example: It is anticipated that this research will provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of social media marketing strategies in the beauty industry, as well as the influence of social media on consumer behavior and purchasing decisions. The findings are expected to inform the development of more targeted and impactful marketing campaigns for beauty brands.

My advice on discussing anticipated outcomes is to be realistic and specific about the potential findings of your research. Highlight how the outcomes will benefit the industry or academic community and contribute to knowledge advancement.

7. Budget and Timeline

Example: The proposed budget for this research includes expenses for participant incentives, data collection tools , and software licenses for data analysis . The timeline for the research spans over six months, including three months for data collection and analysis, and three months for report writing and dissemination of findings.

My advice on setting a budget and timeline is to carefully consider all the resources and time needed to complete the research. Include a breakdown of expenses and a detailed schedule of activities, ensuring that the budget and timeline are feasible and aligned with the research objectives .

By using these examples and following the provided advice, researchers can construct a comprehensive business research proposal that effectively communicates the significance and feasibility of their study. It is important to be clear, thorough, and precise in all sections of the proposal, demonstrating a strong understanding of the research area and a well-thought-out plan for conducting the study.

Download free Business Research Proposal Template in Word DocX, Powerpoint PPTX, and PDF. We included Business Research Proposal Template examples as well.

Download Free Business Research Proposal Template PDF and Examples Download Free Business Research Proposal Template Word Document

Download Free Business Research Proposal Template Powerpoint

Business Research Proposal Template FAQ

What is a business research proposal.

A business research proposal is a document that outlines a detailed plan for conducting research on a specific business-related topic. It typically includes a background of the problem, a literature review, research methodology , and expected outcomes .

What should be included in a business research proposal?

A business research proposal should include an introduction, background of the problem, research objectives, literature review, research methodology , timeline, budget, and potential outcomes .

What is the purpose of a business research proposal?

The purpose of a business research proposal is to outline a plan for conducting research that will help address a specific business problem or question. It serves as a guide for the research process and provides a framework for evaluating the success of the research.

How should the research objectives be described in a business research proposal?

The research objectives in a business research proposal should be clearly defined and aligned with the overall goal of the research. They should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

What is the importance of a literature review in a business research proposal?

A literature review in a business research proposal is important because it provides an overview of the current state of knowledge on the topic being researched. It helps to identify gaps in the existing literature and provides a theoretical framework for the study.

What should be included in the research methodology section of a business research proposal?

The research methodology section of a business research proposal should include a detailed explanation of the research design , data collection methods, sampling techniques, data analysis procedures, and any potential limitations of the study.

How should the budget be presented in a business research proposal?

The budget in a business research proposal should be presented in a clear and detailed manner, outlining all the expected expenses associated with the research, including personnel costs, equipment, travel, and other resources needed to conduct the study.

How should potential outcomes be described in a business research proposal?

Potential outcomes in a business research proposal should be described in terms of the expected findings, implications for the business or industry, and potential contributions to the existing body of knowledge. They should be realistic and aligned with the research objectives.

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How to Write a Business Proposal [Examples + Template]

BUSINESS PROPOSAL TEMPLATE

Craft professional business proposals with ease.

Updated: 06/10/24

Published: 10/08/18

Updated: June 10, 2024

Published: October 08, 2018

Here’s what every new business owner needs: an extra eight hours in the day, an endless supply of coffee, and, most importantly, a really strong business proposal.

A business proposal can bridge the gap between you and potential clients. Done correctly, it will outline your value proposition and persuade a company or organization to do business with you.

Here, we’ll take a look at the various kinds of business proposals and go over how to write one. We’ll also see some ideas and examples to help guide yours.

Know exactly what you need? Jump to one of the following sections:

What is a business proposal?

How to write a business proposal, business proposal templates, business proposal examples, tips for writing a business proposal, business proposal ideas.

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A business proposal is a formal document that’s created by a company and given to a prospect to secure a business agreement.

It’s a common misconception that business proposals and business plans are the same. However, a proposal helps you sell your product or service — not your business itself.

Think of it this way: Instead of assisting your search for investors to fund your business, a proposal helps you seek new customers.

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Home » How To Write A Proposal – Step By Step Guide [With Template]

How To Write A Proposal – Step By Step Guide [With Template]

Table of Contents

A proposal is a document that outlines a plan, idea, or project that you want to pursue or implement, often requiring approval or funding from others. Writing a well-structured, clear, and persuasive proposal is essential for gaining the support and resources you need. Whether it’s for academic research, business, or a project, a good proposal conveys your goals, methods, and anticipated outcomes.

The main objectives of a proposal are:

• Persuasion : Convince the reader or audience of the feasibility and value of your plan.
• Clarity : Clearly outline the steps, timeline, and resources needed.
• Structure : Organize your ideas to demonstrate careful planning and preparation.

How To Write A Proposal

Follow these steps to write an effective proposal:

Step 1: Identify Your Purpose and Audience

• Purpose : Clearly define why you are writing the proposal. Are you seeking approval, funding, or collaboration?
• Audience : Tailor the proposal to the audience’s knowledge level and interests. Business proposals might focus on ROI, while academic proposals may emphasize research methods.

Step 2: Research and Gather Information

• Conduct research to support your proposal with accurate data, statistics, and credible sources.
• Review similar proposals or projects to ensure your idea is unique and feasible.
• Gather information on the resources, budget, and timeline required for successful completion.

Step 3: Outline Your Proposal

• Create an outline to organize your proposal sections logically.
• Typical proposal sections include an introduction, objectives, methodology, timeline, budget, and conclusion.

Step 4: Write the Proposal Sections

Here’s a breakdown of each section to include in your proposal:

Proposal Template

[Proposal Title]

1. Executive Summary

• Purpose : Summarize the main points of your proposal in a clear and concise way.
• Content : Briefly introduce your project, its objectives, and the impact you expect it to have.

Example : “This proposal outlines a community health project aimed at reducing childhood obesity by 20% over three years through nutrition education and physical activity programs.”

2. Introduction and Background

• Purpose : Provide context to your proposal, explaining why the project or idea is necessary.
• Content : Describe the current situation, problem, or opportunity that your proposal addresses.
• Background Information : Include relevant statistics, previous studies, or projects to justify the proposal’s importance.

Example : “Childhood obesity rates have risen by 15% over the past decade in our community. Studies indicate that early intervention through education and exercise programs can effectively reduce these rates.”

3. Objectives

• Purpose : Clearly state what you intend to achieve with this proposal.
• Content : List specific, measurable objectives. Each objective should address the main goals of your project.
• “Reduce childhood obesity by 20% in the target area.”
• “Implement bi-weekly nutrition workshops in 10 local schools.”
• “Establish after-school physical activity programs to engage 300 children per semester.”

4. Methodology or Approach

• Purpose : Describe how you plan to achieve the objectives.
• Content : Outline the methods, activities, and strategies you will use. Include details on how each activity supports the objectives.
• Project Activities : Break down each activity, explaining its purpose and implementation process.
• Roles and Responsibilities : Specify who will be responsible for each task or phase.
• “Conduct nutrition workshops led by certified dietitians.”
• “Organize physical activity sessions in partnership with local fitness centers.”
• “Distribute educational materials to schools for continued learning.”

5. Timeline

• Purpose : Provide a schedule for project milestones and completion dates.
• Content : Use a table or chart to show each phase of the project and its expected duration.
• Purpose : Outline the financial resources required for the project.
• Content : Provide a breakdown of costs by category, including personnel, materials, transportation, and any other expenses.
• Funding Sources : Mention any potential sources of funding or contributions if applicable.

7. Evaluation Plan

• Purpose : Outline how you will measure the success of the project or objectives.
• Content : Specify the metrics, data collection methods, and assessment tools you will use.
• Outcome Measurement : Describe how you’ll track progress, including any surveys, interviews, or data analysis.

Example : “Evaluate the impact of the workshops by comparing pre- and post-program surveys on children’s nutrition knowledge and activity levels. Track obesity rates quarterly in collaboration with local healthcare providers.”

8. Conclusion

• Purpose : Reinforce the need for the project and summarize the benefits.
• Content : Restate the main points, emphasizing the project’s potential impact and aligning it with the organization’s goals or values.

Example : “This project has the potential to significantly improve community health by reducing childhood obesity rates. Through education and activity programs, we can promote healthier lifestyles and create lasting positive change.”

9. Appendices (Optional)

• Purpose : Include any supplementary materials, such as charts, graphs, supporting documents, or detailed data.
• Content : Additional information that supports the main proposal but would otherwise disrupt the flow if included in the main body.

Additional Tips for Writing a Strong Proposal

• Be Clear and Concise : Avoid unnecessary jargon, and focus on conveying your points in a straightforward way.
• Use Visuals : Charts, graphs, or tables can make data easier to understand and more persuasive.
• Tailor to the Audience : Adjust the language, level of detail, and emphasis based on who will be reading the proposal.
• Proofread and Edit : Carefully review your proposal for errors, clarity, and coherence.
• Anticipate Questions : Try to answer any potential questions within the proposal, including justifying the budget and timeline.

Writing a proposal requires clear planning, structure, and persuasive communication. By following this step-by-step guide and using the provided template, you can effectively convey your idea, project, or plan, increasing the likelihood of gaining support, funding, or approval. Whether you are preparing a proposal for business, research, or community projects, a well-organized proposal demonstrates commitment, feasibility, and thoroughness.

Example Proposal Template Summary

Below is a summarized template for your convenience.

Proposal Title

1. Executive Summary Brief overview of the proposal, objectives, and impact.

2. Introduction and Background Context of the project or idea, including problem or opportunity.

3. Objectives Clear, specific goals to be achieved.

4. Methodology Steps, activities, and approach for achieving objectives.

5. Timeline Schedule for each project phase.

6. Budget Detailed cost breakdown by category.

7. Evaluation Plan Metrics and methods to measure success.

8. Conclusion Summary and final emphasis on project impact.

9. Appendices (Optional) Supplementary materials that support the main proposal.

• Bell, J. (2014). Doing Your Research Project: A Guide for First-time Researchers . McGraw-Hill Education.
• Lock, D. (2013). Project Management . Gower Publishing.
• Creswell, J. W., & Creswell, J. D. (2018). Research Design: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods Approaches . SAGE Publications.
• Kothari, C. R. (2004). Research Methodology: Methods and Techniques . New Age International.
• Trochim, W. M., & Donnelly, J. P. (2008). The Research Methods Knowledge Base . Cengage Learning.

About the author

Muhammad Hassan

Researcher, Academic Writer, Web developer

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