Small Biz

Business Plan Pro

Palo Alto Software

Recommended by Philana Diaz, director, Rice University Business Plan Competition

The popular business plan software from Palo Alto, along with the company's online seminars, provides a useful guide for those writing their first business plans, says Diaz. "It's more interactive. It gives them templates and it gives them ideas on what to do," she says. But Diaz cautions that software is a starting point, not a substitute for having experienced entrepreneurs review your plan. "I feel like it's a good balance between some advice from individuals and doing it on your own."