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Case Study: Strategic Planning for a Startup Resort Complex (Investor Pitch & Financial Roadmap)

Writer: Miranda KishelMiranda Kishel
how to start a resort

Client Background

A group of entrepreneurs was developing a resort complex featuring restaurants, hotels, and adventure excursions. Before seeking investors, they needed a credible strategic plan and financial roadmap to demonstrate the project’s potential return on investment (ROI). The client hired Development Theory to help with strategic planning for a resort.


The Challenge

  • Unproven Revenue Model: The resort was still in development, meaning revenue was projected rather than historical.

  • Multiple Business Components: The plan needed to consider multiple revenue streams—lodging, food service, and adventure experiences.

  • Investor Skepticism: Potential investors required a data-driven strategy to justify their funding decisions.

  • Market Uncertainty: The success of the resort depended on tourism trends, location desirability, and seasonal fluctuations.


Our Approach

  1. Market & Feasibility Analysis: Researching tourism trends, local competition, and customer demand forecasts.

  2. Revenue Forecasting: Developing 5-year financial projections, accounting for seasonal and peak periods.

  3. Strategic Positioning: Identifying competitive advantages and how to differentiate the resort in the market.

  4. Risk Assessment: Identifying potential operational risks, competitive threats, and market fluctuations.

  5. Investor-Focused Strategy: Creating investment-grade strategic planning documents and pitch deck materials.


The Solution

  • A detailed strategic plan outlining the resort’s go-to-market strategy, pricing, and operational milestones.

  • Financial projections demonstrating investor ROI, making the opportunity more attractive.

  • An investor pitch deck, highlighting expected revenue streams, risk mitigation strategies, and expansion plans.


Results & Impact

  • The startup secured $3.2M in investor funding, allowing construction to proceed as planned.

  • The resort attracted additional investors who were initially hesitant but convinced by the clear financial and strategic roadmap.

  • The founders gained a clear scaling roadmap, using the strategic plan insights to adjust pricing strategies and expansion plans.


Client Feedback

"Having a solid strategic plan changed everything. Investors wanted proof that our resort would be profitable, and this plan gave them confidence. It helped us secure equity funding and move forward with clarity."


Development Theory Can Help Business Owners Like You

Running a business without a clear plan is like driving without a roadmap—you might get somewhere, but will it be where you want to go? Our Strategic Planning Services at Development Theory help business owners create a step-by-step growth strategy, align their financial and operational goals, and build a long-term vision for success. Whether you're preparing for expansion, improving efficiency, or positioning your business for future sale, a well-structured strategic plan gives you the clarity and direction to make smarter decisions. The best time to plan for success is now—let’s get started!


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