Because it provides specific and organized information about your Oil and gas related company and how you will repay borrowed money, a good business plan is a crucial part of any loan application. Additionally, it informs sales personnel, suppliers, and others about your operations and goals.

The importance of a comprehensive, thoughtful business plan for a oil company cannot be overemphasized. Much hinges on it: outside funding, credit from suppliers, management of your operation and finances, promotion and marketing of your business, and achievement of your goals and objectives.

Despite the critical importance of a business plan, many oil and gas industry entrepreneurs drag their feet when it comes to preparing a written document. They argue that their marketplace changes too fast for a oil and gas business plan to be useful or that they just don't have enough time. But just as a builder won't begin construction without a blueprint, eager business owners shouldn't rush into new ventures without a business plan.

Before you begin writing your business plan, consider four core questions:

• What oil and gas service or product does your business provide and what needs does it fill?
• Who are the potential customers for your oil and gas product or service and why will they purchase it from you?
• How will you reach your potential customers?
• Where will you get the financial resources to start your business?