Business Expansion Planning

Scale strategically and sustainably

3-Phase Expansion Framework

🔬

Phase 1: Validate

Timeline: Months 0-6

Focus: Prove your model works

  • Launch MVP
  • Get first customers
  • Test pricing
  • Gather feedback
⚙️

Phase 2: Optimize

Timeline: Months 6-12

Focus: Perfect operations

  • Systematize processes
  • Optimize pricing
  • Build core team
  • Achieve profitability
🚀

Phase 3: Scale

Timeline: Months 12-24

Focus: Rapid growth

  • Hire aggressively
  • Expand markets
  • Increase marketing
  • Build partnerships

Types of Expansion

1. Geographic Expansion

Open new locations or enter new markets

  • Research target markets
  • Score locations objectively
  • Test with pilot programs
  • Replicate what works

2. Product Line Expansion

Add new products or services

  • Survey existing customers
  • Identify adjacent opportunities
  • Launch with MVP approach
  • Cross-sell to current base

3. Market Segment Expansion

Target new customer segments

  • Identify underserved segments
  • Adapt messaging for new audience
  • Test with small campaigns
  • Scale successful segments

Location Selection Scorecard

Criterion Weight Why It Matters
Market Demand 30% Sufficient customers for your product
Competition 20% Market not oversaturated
Operating Costs 20% Rent, labor, logistics affordable
Demographics 15% Population fits target customer
Accessibility 15% Easy for customers to reach

💡 Expansion Best Practices:

  • Master one location first: Prove your model works before scaling
  • Build systems: Document everything so expansion is repeatable
  • Secure funding: Expansion requires capital - plan ahead
  • Start local: Expand to adjacent markets before going far