Looking for a business planning tool that fits your needs better than LivePlan? Here are the top alternatives in 2025, tailored for startups, small businesses, and entrepreneurs. Each offers unique features, pricing, and strengths:
- IdeaFloat (Free / $20/project): AI-powered idea validation and market analysis for early-stage planning.
- Upmetrics ($7/month): Affordable, AI-driven tools for financial forecasting and collaboration.
- Enloop ($19.95/month): Automated financial forecasting and ratio analysis for users with financial expertise.
- Ideabuddy ($15/project): Beginner-friendly, focused on idea validation and simple planning.
- Bizplan ($29/month): Fundraising-focused with integration to investor platforms like Fundable.
1. IdeaFloat
IdeaFloat helps entrepreneurs turn ideas into actionable plans with tools designed for early-stage business planning. Its pricing is flexible, catering to different needs, as shown below.
| Feature Category | Capabilities |
|---|---|
| Idea Development | Business summary generator, Name generator with domain checker |
| Market Analysis | Market size assessment, Customer profiling, Competitor analysis |
| Financial Tools | Startup cost analyzer, Breakeven analysis, Pricing tools |
| Documentation | Pitch deck generator, Lean canvas creator, Comprehensive business plan templates |
The platform combines these tools with an AI-powered validation system, including its Validation Score, which evaluates the viability of business ideas.
Business Planning Capabilities
IdeaFloat stands out with its SWOT analysis and market research tools, offering detailed insights and competitive analysis for early-stage planning. Its financial forecasting is helpful for initial planning but may not match the depth of platforms like LivePlan for complex financial models.
Pricing Options:
- Free: Includes basic validation tools and business summary generator.
- Standard: $20/project for single idea development.
- Pro: $25/month for unlimited ideas and full feature access.
For entrepreneurs in the ideation phase, IdeaFloat offers a structured way to test and refine business ideas before diving into detailed planning. It's especially helpful for first-time entrepreneurs and startups still shaping their concepts, or businesses looking to expand their product base.
LivePlan vs âŠ.: Which Business Planning Software Is Better
Quick Comparison
| Tool | Key Features | Best For | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upmetrics | AI planning, templates, collaboration | Tech-savvy entrepreneurs | $7/month |
| Enloop | Automated forecasts, financial modeling | Financial planning experts | $19.95/month |
| Ideabuddy | Idea validation, simplified tools | First-time entrepreneurs | $15/project |
| Bizplan | Fundraising tools, Xero integration | Startups raising funds | $29/month |
| IdeaFloat | Market analysis, AI validation system | Early-stage entrepreneurs | $20/project |
Each tool excels in specific areas, so choose based on your business needs, budget, and expertise. Read on for detailed reviews of each platform.
2. Upmetrics
Upmetrics is a business planning platform that blends AI-driven tools with traditional planning features. By 2025, it has emerged as a strong alternative to LivePlan, particularly for startups and small businesses looking for an affordable solution.
With plans starting at just $7/month annually, Upmetrics offers a budget-friendly choice compared to LivePlanâs higher pricing [1]. Despite its lower cost, the platform includes advanced features like AI-assisted planning, financial forecasting, and collaboration tools.
On the other hand, it is an extremely manual tool that requires users to put in a lot of work before a result appears (unlike IdeaFloat, for example).
Hereâs a quick look at what Upmetrics offers:
| Feature Category | Capabilities |
|---|---|
| Planning Tools | Templates, Pitch builder, Strategic planning |
| Financial Tools | Statements, Ratio analysis, Forecasting |
| Collaboration | Workspace, Task management, Version control |
| Support | Business plan course, Customer support |
For teams, Upmetrics provides collaboration tools that allow multiple users to work together seamlessly. Features like version control ensure everyone stays on the same page, tracking changes and maintaining consistency [2].
Another highlight is the included business plan course, a helpful resource for first-time entrepreneurs needing step-by-step guidance [1]. Plus, the platform comes with a 15-day money-back guarantee, letting users explore its features risk-free.
That said, some advanced tools may feel challenging for users without a financial background [2]. However, the dedicated customer support team is available to assist when needed.
Upmetrics delivers a strong mix of affordability and functionality, making it a solid option. Still, itâs worth checking out other platforms like Enloop, which bring their own unique features to the table.
2. Enloop
Enloop is a solid choice for entrepreneurs who value financial precision and automation. Starting at $19.95 per month.
The platform's standout feature is its automated financial forecasting system, which caters to small business owners and entrepreneurs with a moderate understanding of finance. Subscriptions come with detailed financial modeling tools and projections [3].
Hereâs a quick breakdown of what Enloop offers:
| Feature Category | Capabilities |
|---|---|
| Financial Tools | Automated forecasts, ratio analysis, industry benchmarks |
| Plan Creation | Auto-generated text, customizable templates |
| Analysis | Performance scoring, competitive benchmarking |
| Trial | 7-day free trial |
One of its most notable tools is the automated text generation feature. This tool creates professional business plan content based on your financial data, ensuring your narratives align seamlessly with your projections [2].
However, the platform's interface might feel complex for those new to financial modeling. Itâs designed with users who have some financial knowledge in mind, and the lack of collaborative tools could be a drawback for teams [2].
Enloop also calculates key financial ratios and compares projections to industry benchmarks, offering valuable data for more detailed planning [3]. Plus, the 7-day free trial lets you test its features before committing.
While Enloop shines in financial planning, it doesnât include newer features like idea validation tools or advanced collaboration options like IdeaFloat does. For entrepreneurs focused on financial analysis and automated content creation, Enloop remains a strong contender in 2025.
For those seeking tools that emphasize idea brainstorming and teamwork, platforms like Ideabuddy may be worth exploring.
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3. Ideabuddy
Ideabuddy is a business planning tool designed with first-time entrepreneurs and startups in mind. Priced at $15 per business idea, it offers a simple, idea-focused alternative to platforms like LivePlan or IdeaFloat, making it a great choice for those just starting out.
This platform focuses on making business planning accessible and straightforward. Itâs built for users who might not have much experience with financial tools, unlike Enloop, which leans heavily on financial analysis. Instead, Ideabuddy prioritizes tools that help users refine and validate their ideas.
Key Features of Ideabuddy
| Feature Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Idea Development | Tools for idea and market validation |
| Planning Tools | Business plan templates and basic financial calculators |
| Collaboration | Allows one collaborator per project |
| Accessibility | Free plan with limited features available |
| User Interface | Beginner-friendly and easy to navigate |
The platformâs simplified financial tools are perfect for those who find traditional business planning software overwhelming. While it doesnât offer the in-depth financial forecasting of LivePlan, it helps users focus on the essentials without diving into overly complex calculations.
One drawback is its lack of integration with other business tools, such as accounting software or CRM systems. However, the free plan lets users explore basic features before committing to the paid version.
For solo entrepreneurs who value simplicity and idea validation over detailed financial planning, Ideabuddyâs single-collaborator setup is a practical choice. Its emphasis on usability and early-stage idea development makes it a helpful resource for beginners.
If youâre looking for a more customizable and modular tool, Bizplan might be worth considering as an alternative.
4. Bizplan
Bizplan stands out with its combination of business planning tools and fundraising features, making it a solid choice for startups aiming to attract investors. It offers two pricing options: $29/month (billed annually) or a $349 one-time payment for lifetime access, placing it in the mid-range pricing tier.
What sets Bizplan apart is its integration with Fundable, a platform that has helped startups raise over $500 million [2]. This connection gives users access to both planning tools and potential investors, making it a dual-purpose solution.
Key Features and Pricing Structure
| Feature Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Core Planning Tools | Guided plan builder, financial templates, cloud-based functionality |
| Financial Features | Detailed projections, statement templates, Xero integration |
| Additional Benefits | Startup Courses, LaunchRock landing page builder |
| Collaboration | Unlimited business plans |
Bizplan uses a fill-in-the-blanks method for creating plans, offering more flexibility than LivePlan's structured format. Extras like Startup Courses and the LaunchRock landing page builder add even more value [3].
Business Planning Capabilities
While Bizplan provides a robust set of tools, it lacks AI-driven assistance and what-if scenario planning [2]. These omissions might be a drawback for users needing advanced analysis. On the plus side, its integration with Xero simplifies financial data imports [3], though its overall integration options are fewer compared to some competitors.
For entrepreneurs focused on fundraising as well as planning, Bizplan delivers a well-rounded solution. Itâs especially suitable for startups or established businesses with clear fundraising objectives [1].
Although Bizplan shines in fundraising integration, platforms like IdeaFloat cater more to early-stage idea validation and collaborative efforts, offering a different angle for entrepreneurs.
Pros and Cons
Hereâs a breakdown of the top LivePlan alternatives for 2025, highlighting their strengths and limitations to help you choose the right tool for your business.
| Tool | Key Strengths | Limitations | Best For | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upmetrics | AI-driven planning, financial forecasting, one-page pitch builder | AI features limited in basic plan | Tech-savvy entrepreneurs | $7/month |
| Enloop | Automated text writing, detailed ratio analysis | Requires advanced financial knowledge | Financial planning experts | $19.95/month |
| Ideabuddy | Easy-to-use interface, idea testing tools | Limited financial forecasting | First-time entrepreneurs | $15/month |
| Bizplan | Expert support, fundraising tools, lifetime plan option | Higher upfront cost | Startups focused on fundraising | $29/month |
| IdeaFloat | AI validation system, market analysis tools, Easy way to find breakeven points | Basic financial modeling | Early-stage planning, Businesses looking to expand | $20/project |
Now, letâs examine what makes each platform stand out.
Platform Differentiators and Value
IdeaFloat sets itself apart with its Validation Score system, which helps users test and refine ideas. Unlike competitors that stick to basic automation, it provides a broader range of AI-driven tools. Ideafloat ALSO helps users quickly find out when they will break even, and a live data tool that helps users understand their market size.
Upmetrics shines with its AI-powered features that streamline various aspects of business planning.
Enloop is a go-to choice for its advanced financial analysis capabilities. The automated text generation feature is particularly helpful for creating detailed financial documents, making it a strong option for users with technical expertise [2].
Cost-Benefit Analysis
When evaluating these platforms, here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Upmetrics combines affordability with robust AI features, offering great value for tech-savvy users.
- Bizplan is ideal for startups focused on fundraising, thanks to its expert support and targeted tools.
- Enloop excels in financial analysis, but itâs best suited for users with a solid understanding of financial concepts.
- IdeaFloat is perfect for early-stage entrepreneurs looking for effective idea validation tools.
Conclusion
After exploring the top LivePlan alternatives, itâs clear that each platform caters to different business needs. Each tool has its own pros and cons, however we believe IdeaFloat is the most well rounded and comprehensive tool our there.
Upmetrics stands out for its AI-powered tools and budget-friendly $7/month pricing, making it a great choice for entrepreneurs who want user-friendly planning features.
Enloop, priced at $19.95/month, is well-suited for those with a strong grasp of financials, thanks to its advanced ratio analysis and automated text generation. For early-stage planning, IdeaFloat offers its Validate Score system and $20 per project pricing, with 75% of users securing funding within six months. Meanwhile, Bizplan, at $29/month, focuses on fundraising and has helped businesses raise over $500 million through its platform.
The best choice depends on your business needs, budget, and expertise. Donât just go for the highest price - pick the platform that aligns with your goals.
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