How to Write a Business Plan Confidentiality Statement?

Most people aren’t trying to steal your business plan. But…maybe don’t test that theory.

If you’re sending your plan to someone outside your core team—an investor, advisor, or freelancer—it’s smart to include a confidentiality statement.

No, it’s not legally binding. No, it won’t stop someone determined to copy your idea. But it will tell people, clearly and politely, that your plan isn’t meant to be passed around.

This blog breaks down what a business plan confidentiality statement is, how it works, and how to write one without turning your plan into a legal document.

If you’re still working on the full structure, start with our guide on how to write a business plan.

Why do you need a confidentiality statement?

Including a confidentiality statement shows that the content of your plan is private, intentional, and not available for open distribution. It brings structure and intent to how your plan is received. Here’s why it’s important:

Clarifies privacy expectations

The statement makes it clear that the information in your plan is not for public use. It draws attention to the fact that your financials, forecasts, and strategies are shared with specific intent. While it’s not enforceable on its own, it reduces the chances of someone casually passing it along without permission.

Adds professionalism

Including a confidentiality statement shows you take your work seriously. Investors, consultants, or potential partners are more likely to respect your plan if it’s presented with clear boundaries. It positions you as someone who understands the importance of protecting business information.

Supports legal boundaries (to a degree)

This statement isn’t a contract, but if someone misuses your plan, having a written notice that it was shared in confidence can support your case. Without any disclaimer, there’s less clarity about how the information was intended to be treated.

Matches common expectations

Many investors, lenders, and accelerators are used to seeing confidentiality notes in business plans. Including one that meets that expectation and helps establish trust early in the process. It signals that you’re not careless with sensitive details, even at the early stages of the conversation.

A confidentiality statement only works if the reader notices it. So, where should the confidentiality statement appear in your plan? Let’s take a look.

Where to put a confidentiality statement in a business plan?

Placing your confidentiality statement for business plan content where it gets noticed is just as important as writing it clearly. You want it to be seen early without distracting from the rest of your plan.

Here are the best options:

1. Cover Page

The most common place is the cover page, usually in the footer or just below your contact information. One line is enough. For example:

This document contains confidential information and is intended only for the recipient. Do not share or distribute without permission.

This keeps the tone professional and reminds the reader right away that your content is private.

2. Preliminary page

If your cover page is visually heavy or minimal by design, the next best spot is a standalone confidentiality page directly after it. You can title it “Confidentiality Statement” or “Disclaimer” and include your full statement there. This gives the message space without interrupting the flow of your plan.

3. Executive summary mention (Optional)

Some business plans include a brief reminder inside the executive summary. Something like:

This plan is confidential and intended solely for review by [name or title of reader].

This is optional, but it can reinforce the message without sounding too formal.

Wording can make the difference between something that’s ignored and something that earns a pause. Even a single sentence, if written well, can do the job.

Business plan confidentiality statement examples

When written well, a confidentiality statement is short, direct, and professional. You do not need legal phrasing or dense formatting, just a clear reminder that the information is shared in confidence.

If you’re looking for a clear confidentiality statement example to include in your plan, here are a few well-written options that strike the right tone:

Each confidentiality statement example is designed to be short, respectful, and easy to adapt. They communicate privacy expectations without overwhelming the reader.

Confidentiality Statement vs Non-Disclosure Agreement

A confidentiality statement and a non-disclosure agreement might sound similar, but they serve different purposes and are used in different situations.

Confidentiality Statement

This is a short, informal note you include in your business plan. It signals to the reader that the information is private and should not be shared. It has no legal force on its own, but it sets expectations and encourages discretion.

Best for: Investor decks, early-stage conversations, business plan submissions, and informal reviews.

Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA)

You may want to create a formal business plan confidentiality agreement if you’re sharing detailed or sensitive financial data.

This is a legally binding contract that both parties sign. It outlines exactly what information is confidential and what happens if it is misused or disclosed. NDAs offer legal protection, but they’re usually reserved for situations involving deeper engagement.

Best for: Consultants, freelancers, formal partnerships, and long-term vendors.

For a quick breakdown of what’s typically included in an NDA, see this UpCounsel guide on NDAs.

Can you use both?

Yes, and in many cases, you should. Use the confidentiality statement in your business plan as a baseline. If conversations move forward and more detailed sharing is involved, follow up with an NDA.

Adding the statement shows you care about privacy. Using an NDA shows you take it seriously.

Including both of them shows a thoughtful approach to business plan writing and information sharing.

NDA template for your business plan

It’s worth asking for a signed NDA if your business plan includes sensitive information and you're sharing it with someone beyond casual review.

If you’re pitching a unique concept, a non-disclosure agreement for a business idea template like the one below can offer extra peace of mind. It’s clear and simple and avoids unnecessary legal complexity.

You can copy and customize this template based on your specific situation, or share it with a legal advisor if you're unsure about details.

The bottom line

A confidentiality statement is about setting expectations. It shows you value your work and want it treated professionally. When used thoughtfully, it signals maturity without being overbearing.

But remember: Ideas alone rarely seal the deal. Investors and partners respond to clarity, traction, and the ability to execute, not just disclaimers. So protect your work, yes, but also share it with a purpose.

The best plans strike a balance between openness and caution. A well-placed statement helps you do exactly that. And if you want expert support to get your plan investor-ready, from strategy to polish, PlanGrowLab is here to help.

Your business deserves that level of care.