In addition to many years as a professional business plan writer, I have ten years experience as a national business consultant and have owned and operated a family retail business with 30 employees. As such, I have an inside understanding of small business and know the challenges of meeting payrolls, maintaining cash flow, paying vendors, securing funding, managing inventory turnover and increasing market share in the face of big box competition.

Unlike online planning services where the assigned planner may actually have little “real” experience in the small business environment, here you will work with one person – Christie Karis. I am a business professional that has significant market development experience, an advanced degree in marketing and direct managerial experience in operations, marketing, and finance.

As demonstrated by my articles that have been published in national trade magazines, my writing skills are excellent. I work extremely well in diverse and challenging environments. I am an experienced collaborator and have a personal and flexible working style that fits well with most small business owners. Most importantly, I have the passion to ensure that your business plan contains the strategic and financial content necessary for a reliable road map to success.

"Like many small business owners, I ran my business for years with a business plan stuck away in the back of my head. When my business began to grow, I needed a business plan to help me secure bank financing. I went on the hunt for someone I believed could help me. After interviewing with Christie I knew she was the one.

All I expected was a business plan to help secure a SBA loan. What I got was so much more. Christie listened carefully to my vision and my needs. She worked with me closely to develop a plan that would carry my business into the future. Since working with Christie my business has grown more than threefold and shows no sign of slowing. I have now purchased the property that I had been leasing for the past eleven years.

Now, I keep the business plan we developed close at hand. It’s one of my most valuable tools. Christie is much more than just a “business plan writer.” She has become a trusted advisor, teacher and mentor, helping me to truly understand my business and the market.

Christie Karis is truly one of a kind."

– Carlton Doup, Owner, Kung Fu Northwest / Kung Fu 4 Kids

"As a commercial banker, I see many business plans. Christie Karis develops SBA plans that are thorough and appropriate to the business. Christie is a professional, listens closely to her clients and to the banker. I highly recommend Christie to anyone who needs a plan of action or an SBA loan."

– Bob Blackburn, VP, SBA Lending Bank

"The work we've done together on the financials and marketing is truly challenging. It is a pleasure working with someone who clearly understands what makes a small business work. Your level of professionalism is on a par with what I've seen from Deloitte-Touche and Anderson. I've had a big-budget business plan at a rate our startup can afford."

– Michael Brooks, Owner, Journey-Out

"Christie's experience, insight, and knowledge are unsurpassed. She listened to our ideas, allowed us to think out of the box, and kept us focused throughout the entire process. No software program can ever touch the uniqueness of our business plan."

– Elise Lindborg & Kelli Henderson, Zippy Dogs

"Christie Karis had insights that went far beyond ours. An MBA proofreader said, 'Very, very impressive and thorough. You would get an "A" in any MBA class with this plan.'"

– Tim Vack & Jeff Bergerson, Owners, Bfit2live

"Christie Karis combines decades of sound business experience, careful listening skills and a sincere desire to help professionals realize their unique visions. She hones ideas into action steps - and gets results."

– Margaret Sutro, MA, Movement Therapist

"Christie, how could I even be here if it weren't for you?! What an incredible journey. Talk about eye-opening. What a great beginning for this new adventure."

– Alex Radcliffe, Owner, Alexander's Chocolate Classics

"Christie breaks the process down into digestible pieces, so you can't get overwhelmed. Christie didn't simply want to write a business plan for me, she wanted to teach me how my industry and competition worked. I wouldn't be where I am today if it weren't for her guidance. She isn't just a consultant, but a partner and I highly recommend her."

– Melanie Sadek, Murphy’s Paw

"Christie’s ability to ask questions, listen to the intent of the message and then wordsmith a business plan that is ready for presentation is impressive. Her experience and knowledgeable contributions provide an assurance that the business plan is well crafted and will be well received."

– J Pryor, Panama Medical Institute

If you need a business plan with compelling marketing strategies and the financial clarity to secure funding, please contact me today so we can discuss your needs. Your first step to finding the right professional business plan writer is only a keystroke away!