How to Build a 2026 Business Plan Using Real Data (Avoiding the Common Mistakes)

Most business owners are already behind on their 2026 plan, even if they don’t realize it yet.In this high-value snippet of Build to Win, John walks through exactly how he builds a data-backed business plan for the year ahead, using real CRM numbers instead of gut instinct.From forecasting revenue, to planning marketing spend and headcount, this episode breaks down how to reverse-engineer a 2026 plan that actually holds up under pressure.If you’re still dividing your revenue goal evenly across 12 months or waiting until Q4 to get serious about planning, this conversation will challenge how you think about growth in 2026.Key Takeaways: Intro (00:00)The $5M Planning Moment (01:14)Building a Data-Driven Forecast (02:19)Using AI to Identify True Seasonality (02:59)Why Even Monthly Budgets Break Forecasting (05:05)Demos Are the KPI That Matters Most (06:51)Headcount Planning for Sales & Production (09:11)When to Build Your Business Plan (10:19)Additional Links & Resources:🔥 Watch our **FREE** on-demand webinar and learn how to drive 20% net profit with systems and processes: https://www.builderprime.com/webinars/on-demand-webinar-drive-20-net-profit-with-systems-processes?utm_source=RedCircle&utm_medium=Audio&utm_campaign=23⚡ Learn more about us: https://www.builderprime.com/ 📱 Connect with us on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/builderprime/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/builderprime/ Jonathan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanweinberg/ John’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-kolbaska-a271a757/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/builderprimecrm/ —Build to Win is a podcast for contractors where we give you the tools to grow your home improvement business. Follow us wherever you listen to your podcasts!