The purpose of the company history section of the business plan is to give the potential investor some background information regarding the company and its performance/development to date. It is important because a common way of evaluating future potential is to look at past performance.

For information, give the date of formation or incorporation of the company and provide a brief summary of developments since. Point out past successes (or otherwise) in terms of products or services developed and marketed and explain how these will enhance the company’s future. If set-backs or losses have occurred in the company history discuss these, emphasizing corrective action taken both to prevent recurrence of these difficulties
and to improve profitability.

Among the features to be included: group structure if relevant; explanation of financing to date, including involvement of shareholders; management team expansion and evolution; the influence of any industrial, economic, social or technological trends on the company; milestones reached; major agreements – whether with investors, credit sources, customers or suppliers – which bind it.