Executive Summary
This business provides freelance writing and proofreading services to clients including businesses, students, and entrepreneurs. Services range from blog articles and website copy to editing and proofreading. The business will start as a home-based LLC, with minimal overhead and flexible pricing strategies to remain competitive in the marketplace.
The short-term goal is to establish a strong portfolio, attract recurring clients, and achieve 10 hours of billable work per week. The long-term goal is to build a steady flow of projects, working up to 30 hours per week, and positioning the service as a premium brand.
Services Offered
- Content writing (blogs, website copy, product descriptions)
- Proofreading and editing
- Ghostwriting (articles, reports, ebooks)
- Resume/CV and cover letter writing
Market Analysis
Competitors
A review of freelance platforms (such as Fiverr and Upwork) shows a wide range of services and pricing. Competitors typically charge:
- $15–$25/hour for entry-level writing
- $30–$50/hour for experienced freelancers
- $50+/hour for premium niche writers (technical, legal, grant writing)
SWOT Analysis
Strengths:
- Strong writing and editing skills
- Low startup costs and ability to work remotely
- Flexibility in service offerings
Weaknesses:
- Limited client base at launch
- Heavy reliance on self-marketing
- Initial income instability
Opportunities:
- Growing demand for online content (blogs, SEO writing, copywriting)
- Ability to specialize in profitable niches (business writing, academic editing, creative ghostwriting)
- Potential to upsell proofreading into full writing packages
Threats:
- Highly competitive freelance marketplace
- Price pressure from low-cost providers
- Economic downturns reducing freelance budgets
Pricing Strategy
Three approaches will be considered:
- Competitive – Match mid-range rates of $25–$35/hour to appeal to a broad market.
- Premium – Position as a high-quality service at $40–$60/hour.
- Budget – Offer lower rates ($15–$20/hour) for entry clients to build portfolio and reviews.
Operations Plan
- Work from home office using existing computer, printer, and internet.
- Communication handled via email, Zoom, and a dedicated business phone line.
- Projects sourced from networking, referrals, and freelance platforms.
- Marketing includes business cards, a professional website, and a presence on LinkedIn and Fiverr.
Startup & Budget
Minimal Budget (Lean Startup)
- Business license/LLC setup: $500
- Computer monitor: $200
- Magic Jack (phone line): $50/year
- Website (DIY): $100
- Business cards: $50
Total: ~$900
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Business license/LLC setup | $500 |
| Computer monitor | $200 |
| Magic Jack phone line | $50 |
| DIY Website | $100 |
| Business cards | $50 |
| Total | $900 |
Ideal Budget
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Business license/LLC setup | $500 |
| Faster computer & large monitor | $1,200 |
| Laser printer | $200 |
| Professionally designed website | $500 |
| Business cards | $50 |
| Total | $2,450 |
Pie-in-the-Sky Budget
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Business license/LLC setup | $500 |
| Faster computer, monitor, laser printer | $1,400 |
| Ergonomic desk setup | $1,000 |
| Premium office furniture & accessories | $500 |
| Professionally designed website | $500 |
| Marketing (ads, promotions) | $1,000 |
| Business cards | $50 |
| Total | $4,950 |
Income Projection
- Starting phase: 5–10 hours/week at $25/hour → $500–$1,000/month.
- Growth phase: 15–20 hours/week → $1,500–$2,500/month.
- Maximum solo capacity: 30 hours/week at $30/hour → ~$3,600/month ($43,200/year).
| Phase | Hours/Week | Rate (per hour) | Monthly Income (est.) | Annual Income (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting phase | 5–10 | $25 | $500–$1,000 | $6,000–$12,000 |
| Growth phase | 15–20 | $25–$30 | $1,500–$2,500 | $18,000–$30,000 |
| Maximum capacity | 30 | $30 | ~$3,600 | ~$43,200 |
Goals & Milestones
- Month 1–3: Launch website, secure first 5 clients, complete at least 20 paid hours.
- Month 4–6: Reach steady 10 billable hours/week, develop repeat business.
- Year 1: Operate at ~30 hours/week, achieve $40k+ annual revenue, and establish premium positioning in niche markets.