drone business plan examples

Drone Business Plan Template

Written by Dave Lavinsky

Drone Business Plan

Over the past 20+ years, we have helped over 500 entrepreneurs and business owners create business plans to start and grow their drone companies. 

If you’re unfamiliar with creating a drone business plan, you may think creating one will be a time-consuming and frustrating process. For most entrepreneurs it is, but for you, it won’t be since we’re here to help. We have the experience, resources, and knowledge to help you create a great business plan.

In this article, you will learn some background information on why business planning is important. Then, you will learn how to write a drone business plan step-by-step so you can create your plan today.

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here >

What is a Drone Business Plan?

A business plan provides a snapshot of your drone business as it stands today, and lays out your growth plan for the next five years. It explains your business goals and your strategies for reaching them. It also includes market research to support your plans.

Why You Need a Business Plan for a Drone Business

If you’re looking to start a drone business or grow your existing drone company, you need a business plan. A business plan will help you raise funding, if needed, and plan out the growth of your drone business to improve your chances of success. Your drone business plan is a living document that should be updated annually as your company grows and changes.

Sources of Funding for Drone Businesses

With regards to funding, the main sources of funding for a drone business are personal savings, credit cards, bank loans, and angel investors. When it comes to bank loans, banks will want to review your business plan (hand it to them in person or email to them as a PDF file) and gain confidence that you will be able to repay your loan and interest. To acquire this confidence, the loan officer will not only want to ensure that your financials are reasonable, but they will also want to see a professional plan. Such a plan will give them the confidence that you can successfully and professionally operate a business. Personal savings and bank loans are the most common funding paths for drone companies.

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

How to write a business plan for a drone business.

If you want to start a drone business or expand your current one, you need a business plan. The guide and sample below details the necessary information for how to write each essential component of your drone business plan.

Executive Summary

Your executive summary provides an introduction to your business plan, but it is normally the last section you write because it provides a summary of each key section of your plan.

The goal of your executive summary is to quickly engage the reader. Explain to them the kind of drone business you are running and the status. For example, are you a startup, do you have a drone business that you would like to grow, or are you operating a chain of drone businesses?

Next, provide an overview of each of the subsequent sections of your plan. 

• Give a brief overv iew of the drone industry. 
• Discuss the type of drone business you are operating. 
• Detail your direct competitors. Give an overview of your target customers. 
• Provide a snapshot of your marketing strategy. Identify the key members of your team. 
• Offer an overview of your financial plan.

Company Overview

In your company overview, you will detail the type of drone business you are operating.

For example, you m ight specialize in one of the following types of drone businesses:

• Drone photography: specializing in photographs of nature, scenic areas, and hard-to-reach places, drone photography services create high-resolution images.
• Drone real estate videography: High-end homes use drone real estate photography to assist in demonstrating the superior value of the home and grounds.
• Drone security: Businesses and private home owners utilize drone security as an extra measure of protection, particularly those with properties containing several acres.
• Drone building inspections: Specialized building projects, such as underwater, high towers, or hard-to-reach areas require drone coverage to inspect and certify work.

In addition to explaining the type of drone business you will operate, the company overview needs to provide background on the business.

Include answers to questions such as:

• When and why did you start the business?
• What milestones have you achieved to date? Milestones could include the number of high-end homes served, your on-going contracts with clients, or the multiple locations you serve.
• Your legal business structure. Are you incorporated as an S-Corp? An LLC? A sole proprietorship? Explain your legal structure here.

Industry Analysis

In your industry or market analysis, you need to provide an overview of the drone industry.

While this may seem unnecessary, it serves multiple purposes.

First, researching the drone industry educates you. It helps you understand the market in which you are operating. 

Secondly, market research can improve your marketing strategy, particularly if your analysis identifies market trends.

The third reason is to prove to readers that you are an expert in your industry. By conducting the research and presenting it in your plan, you achieve just that.

The following questions should be answered in the industry analysis section of your drone business plan:

• How big is the drone industry (in dollars)?
• Is the market declining or increasing?
• Who are the key competitors in the market?
• Who are the key suppliers in the market?
• What trends are affecting the industry?
• What is the industry’s growth forecast over the next 5 – 10 years?
• What is the relevant market size? That is, how big is the potential target market for your drone business? You can extrapolate such a figure by assessing the size of the market in the entire country and then applying that figure to your local population.

Customer Analysis

The customer analysis section of your drone business plan must detail the customers you serve and/or expect to serve.

The following are examples of customer segments: individuals, families, business entities.

As you can imagine, the customer segment(s) you choose will have a great impact on the type of drone business you operate. Clearly, individuals would respond to different marketing promotions than corporations, for example.

Try to break out your target customers in terms of their demographic and psychographic profiles. With regards to demographics, including a discussion of the ages, genders, locations, and income levels of the potential customers you seek to serve.

Psychographic profiles explain the wants and needs of your target customers. The more you can recognize and define these needs, the better you will do in attracting and retaining your customers. Ideally you can speak with a sample of your target customers before writing your plan to better understand their needs.

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Competitive Analysis

Your competitive analysis should identify the indirect and direct competitors your business faces and then focus on the latter.

Direct competitors are othe r drone businesses. 

Indirect competitors are other options that customers have to purchase from that aren’t directly competing with your product or service. This includes real estate companies, building inspectors, and wedding photographers. You need to mention direct competition, as well.

For each direct competitor, provide an overview of their business and document their strengths and weaknesses. Unless you once worked at your competitors’ businesses, it will be impossible to know everything about them. But you should be able to find out key things about them such as

• What types of customers do they serve?
• What type of drone business are they?
• What is their pricing (premium, low, etc.)?
• What are they good at?
• What are their weaknesses?

With regards to the last two questions, think about your answers from the customers’ perspective. And don’t be afraid to ask your competitors’ customers what they like most and least about them.

The final part of your competitive analysis section is to document your areas of competitive advantage. For example:

• Will you provide customized online videography services?
• Will you offer 24/7 protective drone security that your competition doesn’t?
• Will you provide better customer service?
• Will you offer better pricing?

Think about ways you will outperform your competition and document them in this section of your plan.

Marketing Plan

Traditionally, a marketing plan includes the four P’s: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. For a drone business plan, your marketing strategy should include the following:

Product : In the product section, you should reiterate the type o f drone company that you documented in your company overview. Then, detail the specific products or services you will be offering. For example, will you video large acreage areas for farm and ranch owners? Will you provide drone services in out-of-reach areas for drone inspections? Will you offer referral rewards for those who bring other clients to you?

Price : Document the prices you will offer and how they compare to your competitors. Essentially in the product and price sub-sections of yo ur plan, yo u are presenting the services you offer and their prices.

Place : Place refers to the site of your drone company. Document where your company is situated. Identify the breadth of your traveling capabilities (county-wide? state-wide?) for drone video or photography projects. For example, can you take photos of a skyscraper rooftop area? Will you provide 24/7 security for a large property owner? Discuss how your services might be the ideal answer for your customers and their needs.

Promotions : The final part of your drone marketing plan is where you will document how you will drive potential customers to your location(s). The following are some promotional methods you might consider:

• Advertise in local papers, radio stations and/or magazines
• Reach out to websites 
• Distribute flyers
• Engage in email marketing
• Advertise on social media platforms
• Improve the SEO (search engine optimization) on your website for targeted keywords

Operations Plan

While the earlier sections of your business plan explained your goals, your operations plan describes how you will meet them. Your operations plan should have two distinct sections as follows.

Everyday short-term processes include all of the tasks involved in running your drone business, including answering calls, planning and providing drone services, invoicing and paying bills, etc. 

Long-term goals are the milestones you hope to achieve. These could include the dates when you expect to book your Xth client, or when you hope to reach $X in revenue. It could also be when you expect to secure a long-term state government contract for drone services.

Management Team

To demonstrate your drone business’ potential to succeed, a strong management team is essential. Highlight your key players’ backgrounds, emphasizing those skills and experiences that prove their ability to grow a company. 

Ideally, you and/or your team members have direct experience in managing drone businesses. If so, highlight this experience and expertise. But also highlight any experience that you think will help your business succeed.

If your team is lacking, consider assembling an advisory board. An advisory board would include 2 to 8 individuals who would act as mentors to your business. They would help answer questions and provide strategic guidance. If needed, look for advisory board members with experience in managing a drone business or successfully running a photography or videography business.

Financial Plan

Your financial plan should include your 5-year financial statement broken out both monthly or quarterly for the first year and then annually. Your financial statements include your income statement, balance s heet, and cash flow statements.

Income Statement

An income statement is more commonly called a Profit and Loss statement or P&L. It shows your revenue and then subtracts your costs to show whether you turned a profit or not.

In developing your income statement, you need to devise assumptions. For example, will you book drone service requests at least twice per day, or extend your drone business to new locations ? And will sales grow by 2% or 10% per year? As you can imagine, your choice of assumptions will greatly impact the financial forecasts for your business. As much as possible, conduct research to try to root your assumptions in reality.

Balance Sheets

Balance sheets show your assets and liabilities. While balance sheets can include much information, try to simplify them to the key items you need to know about. For instance, if you spend $50,000 on building out your drone business, this will not give you immediate profits. Rather it is an asset that will hopefully help you generate profits for years to come. Likewise, if a lender writes you a check for $50,000, you don’t need to pay it back immediately. Rather, that is a liability you will pay back over time.

Cash Flow Statement

Your cash flow statement will help determine how much money you need to start or grow your business, and ensure you never run out of money. What most entrepreneurs and business owners don’t realize is that you can turn a profit but run out of money and go bankrupt. 

When creating your Income Statement and Balance Sheets be sure to include several of the key costs needed in starting or growing a drone business:

• Cost of drone equipment, drone maintenance and office supplies
• Payroll or salaries paid to staff
• Business insurance
• Other start-up expenses (if you’re a new business) like legal expenses, permits, computer software, and equipment

Attach your full financial projections in the appendix of your plan along with any supporting documents that make your plan more compelling. For example, you might include your real estate drone contract with a new realtor or a list of corporate clients who use your drone for security services. 

Writing a business plan for your drone business is a worthwhile endeavor. If you follow the template above, by the time you are done, you will truly be an expert. You will understand the drone industry, your competition, and your customers. You will develop a marketing strategy and will understand what it takes to launch and grow a successful drone business.

Drone Business Plan FAQs

What is the easiest way to complete my drone business plan.

Growthink's Ultimate Business Plan Template allows you to quickly and easily write your drone business plan.

How Do You Start a Drone Business?

Starting a drone business is easy with these 14 steps:

• Choose the Name for Your Drone Business
• Create Your Drone Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Drone Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Drone Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Drone Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Drone Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Drone Business Equipment
• Develop Your Drone Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Drone Business
• Open for Business

Where Can I Download a Free Business Plan Template PDF?

Click here to download the pdf version of our basic business plan template.

Our free business plan template pdf allows you to see the key sections to complete in your plan and the key questions that each must answer. The business plan pdf will definitely get you started in the right direction.

We do offer a premium version of our business plan template. Click here to learn more about it. The premium version includes numerous features allowing you to quickly and easily create a professional business plan. Its most touted feature is its financial projections template which allows you to simply enter your estimated sales and growth rates, and it automatically calculates your complete five-year financial projections including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Here’s the link to our Ultimate Business Plan Template.

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your Drone business plan?

OR, Let Us Develop Your Plan For You

Since 1999, Growthink has developed business plans for thousands of companies who have gone on to achieve tremendous success.   Click here to see how Growthink’s business plan advisors can give you a winning business plan.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

How to get into the drone business: ideas, plans, models and business opportunities in 2021

We expect the drone services market to grow from $4.4 billion in 2018 to $63.6 billion by 2025.

• Below we've outlined some of the ways people are breaking into the drone business.
• Do you work in the drone or broader Tech industry? Get business insights on the latest innovations, market trends, and your competitors with data-driven research.

Gearing Up Towards a Drone-Powered Economy

Some trends have the capacity of turning into mega trends and bringing about a dramatic shift in the economy as we know it. UAVs have managed to do that in a rather short period of time.

From being considered as mere "toys of the hobbyists", "flying cameras of the rich," or the "clandestine military operative machines," drones have further penetrated vast areas of our economy and are starting to become a major part of our everyday lives. Unimaginable uses of drones are coming to life every single day and their evolution is only going to surge with time.

Business tech buffs globally are trying to get a slice of this rapidly growing trend's pie. The drone services market size is expected to grow from $4.4 billion in 2018 to $63.6 billion by 2025.

For a budding entrepreneur, owning a drone in this day and age is a latent business opportunity just waiting to be explored and exploited. For opportunistic businesspeople, drones have multiple uses and can be explored and utilized in a variety of ways. 

Before getting started with a drone-related business, it is fundamental to check local regulations on the commercial use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Some countries already have introduced strict regulations that limit the use of drones. 

How to Get Started with a Drone Business

Before you decide to take the plunge into the intriguing world of drones and the business opportunities ascribed with them, the very first steps are to enroll in an FAA-approved aeronautical training program to get a Remote Pilot Certificate, which is a prerequisite to be able to commercially conduct a full-fledged drone business. You can enroll in the Drone Pilot Ground School , which helps fledgling drone pilots get the appropriate test prep for the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test. 

Related stories

UAV Coach also offers a step-by-step guide to FAA Part 107 for U.S. Commercial Drone Pilots to score a drone certification process that covers all the new regulations implemented by the FAA. 

Drone Business Opportunities 

The potential business opportunities with drones are extensive. Below, we've listed some of the ways people are breaking into the drone business.

One-man Aerial Film Unit (Filmmaking)

With basic knowledge of operating video cameras and piloting drones, people can produce in-house documentaries, short films, video snippets and montages that would otherwise require helicopters to shoot. Moreover, drones are cheaper, more maneuverable, and safer than helicopters .

Individuals and large enterprise consumers can also pursue a wedding and special events photography business with drones. Owning a drone can be the ultimate start to a freelance business of commercial photography and videography, which could prove to be a secondary or even a primary source of income.

Drone Photography Business

Aerial photography accounts for one of the largest shares of the drone services market. A variety of markets look to aerial photography for collecting digital data. For example, the architecture, oil & gas, and civil engineering industries rely on drone photography for data collection, assets management, and aerial mapping.

Agriculture Manning/Inspection Business Farmers can use UAVs for pest and blight identification, crop health, and weed identification. Drones in action

Farmers can reduce the variable cost of manually getting their farms inspected, as drones can reach niche areas in half the amount of time that manual labor would take. Farmers can also use UAVs for pest and blight identification, crop health and weed identification, and agriculture applications such as fertilizer, pesticides, and water distribution.

Mapping and Industrial Inspection Business

With a geo-referenced map, areas and objects can be easily measured and quantified with drones, which otherwise would take a ground survey team several days to cover. Architects, construction site owners, mining engineers, shipping and infrastructure professionals, and more can be potential customers for a drone inspection business.

Drone Repair Service Business

In most budding industries, there is a corresponding requirement of maintenance and repair jobs. With the escalating use of drones worldwide, and with associated probable military and domestic drone crashes, a good drone repair service is never going to be devoid of work.

Repairing drones may not sound like the most revolutionary business opportunity in the field, but it could be a great way to undercut the market and grow quickly in this particular niche — using 3D printing to lower costs.

Drone Professional Courses Provider Business

As the interest around drone uses and operations increases, more tech buffs can benefit from the teachings of professional pilots, drone tech experts and makers. Drone flying courses usually involve theoretical and practical sessions. Students can be taught the basic maneuvers and safe use of drones to take pictures or capture footage. Offering students licenses and certifications can also be offered as part of the courses by authorized instructors.

Small Business Delivery Drones can deliver everyday supplies and perform minor functions that can lower operational costs. Uber

Keeping in tandem with local rules and laws, small businesses can benefit immensely from drones. Drones can deliver everyday supplies, repair materials, commodities, and perform minor functions that can lower operational costs for small businesses considerably. Elimination of middle men and labor for menial work (such as deliveries and pick ups) can help boost the bottom line of many businesses across the globe.

Drone Advertising and Marketing Business

Drones have a yet another unusual function of intelligence gathering and data mining for businesses. As an example, one of retail's largest players, Walmart, is testing how drones could help improve warehouse inventory management.

Backed by cloud services and big-data techniques, the unprecedented data gathering capabilities of drones have the potential to radically alter the competitive dynamics of the information landscape.

Apart from this, drones can be used for marketing campaigns by carrying advertising banners and shooting aerial footage campaigns, maximizing exposure for companies.

Real Estate Drone Business 

The real estate market is an emerging opportunity for drone technology. Drones have the ability to generate video tours for customers interested in property. Soaring through halls and over rooftops, drones provide customers with a more immersive experience than traditional real estate photography. 

In addition to the above, some other drone business opportunities to look into are:

• Commercial Inspection Services: Provideing inspection services for bridges, cell and TV towers, wind turbines, power lines, pipelines, and even solar panels.
• Fast Food Delivery: Big companies such as Domino's Pizza will be looking to invest in drones for pizza delivery in the future.
• Package Delivery: Australia Post and Amazon are already investing in drone technology as a way of delivering packages.
• Residential Home Inspections: Check roofs, chimneys, siding, brick, and other structures for exterior damage.
• Drone Delivery Methods: Solve the "last 50 feet dilemma" by developing a method for delivery, such as drop, parachute, hoist, or landing.
• Software Programming/Applications : If you know something particular the drone market is lacking, then invest in creating an app for it.
• Drone Rentals: Because drone technology changes so rapidly, it doesn't always make sense for a company to make a long-term investment. Renting, rather than selling, drones can provide more flexibility where it's needed.

More to Learn

The opportunities listed here are just a few of the vast prospects this budding industry offers. After understanding the basic concepts behind drone usage and its business potential, time should be taken to assess possibilities and figure out what your biggest strengths are. 

Interested in learning more? Join other Insider Intelligence clients who receive thousands of Connectivity & Tech forecasts, briefings, charts, and research reports to their inboxes. >> Become a Client

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Drone Business Plan

Maybe you are a photographer and find drones fascinating, or maybe you are passionate about the rewards that the drone business offers. Whatever your motivation is, starting a drone business in competition with a proper business plan is a wise idea.

Need help writing a business plan for your drone business? You’re at the right place. Our drone business plan template will help you get started.

Free Business Plan Template

Download our free business plan template now and pave the way to success. Let’s turn your vision into an actionable strategy!

• Fill in the blanks – Outline
• Financial Tables

How To Write A Drone Business Plan?

Writing a drone business plan is a crucial step toward the success of your business. Here are the key steps to consider when writing a business plan:

1. Executive Summary

An executive summary is the first section planned to offer an overview of the entire business plan. However, it is written after the entire business plan is ready and summarizes each section of your plan.

Here are a few key components to include in your executive summary:

Introduce your Business:

Start your executive summary by briefly introducing your business to your readers.

Market Opportunity:

Products and services:.

Highlight the drone services you offer your clients. The USPs and differentiators you offer are always a plus.

Marketing & Sales Strategies:

Financial highlights:, call to action:.

Ensure your executive summary is clear, concise, easy to understand, and jargon-free.

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2. Business Overview

The business overview section of your business plan offers detailed information about your company. The details you add will depend on how important they are to your business. Yet, business name, location, business history, and future goals are some of the foundational elements you must consider adding to this section:

Business Description:

• Drone photography business
• Drone manufacturing business
• Drone inspection services
• Drone surveying and mapping
• Agriculture drone services
• Drone delivery services
• Drone racing and entertainment
• Drone software and development

Describe the legal structure of your drone business, whether it is a sole proprietorship, LLC, partnership, or others.

Mission Statement:

Business history:.

If you’re an established drone business, briefly describe your business history, like—when it was founded, how it evolved over time, etc.

Future Goals:

This section should provide a thorough understanding of your business, its history, and its future plans. Keep this section engaging, precise, and to the point.

3. Market Analysis

The market analysis section of your business plan should offer a thorough understanding of the industry with the target market, competitors, and growth opportunities. You should include the following components in this section.

Target market:

• For instance, real estate & property owners, media & production people, and agriculture & farming people would be an ideal target audience for a drone business.

Market size and growth potential:

Competitive analysis:, market trends:.

• For instance, AI integration has a booming market; explain how you plan on dealing with this potential growth opportunity.

Regulatory Environment:

Here are a few tips for writing the market analysis section of your commercial drone business plan:

• Conduct market research, industry reports, and surveys to gather data.
• Provide specific and detailed information whenever possible.
• Illustrate your points with charts and graphs.
• Write your business plan keeping your target audience in mind.

4. Products And Services

The product and services section should describe the specific services and products that will be offered to customers. To write this section should include the following:

Describe your drone products:

Mention the drone products your business will offer. This list may include products like,

• Drone accessories
• Drone cameras
• Drone software
• Drone hardware or upgrade kits
• Sensors and other attachments

Describe your drone services:

Mention the drone services your business will offer. The list may include services like

• Aerial photography and videography
• Surveying and mapping
• Drone repair and maintenance
• Drone training and certification
• Drone consulting and custom services

Describe each product or service:

Quality measures.

• This may include safety protocols, pilot training & certification, data accuracy & quality, insurance coverage, etc.

Additional Services

In short, this section of your drone business plan must be informative, precise, and client-focused. By providing a clear and compelling description of your offerings, you can help potential investors and readers understand the value of your business.

5. Sales And Marketing Strategies

Writing the sales and marketing strategies section means a list of strategies you will use to attract and retain your clients. Here are some key elements to include in your sales & marketing plan:

Unique Selling Proposition (USP):

Define your business’s USPs depending on the market you serve, the equipment you use, and the unique services you provide. Identifying USPs will help you plan your marketing strategies.

Pricing Strategy:

Marketing strategies:, sales strategies:, customer retention:.

Overall, this section of your drone business plan should focus on customer acquisition and retention.

Have a specific, realistic, and data-driven approach while planning sales and marketing strategies for your drone business, and be prepared to adapt or make strategic changes in your strategies based on feedback and results.

6. Operations Plan

The operations plan section of your business plan should outline the processes and procedures involved in your business operations, such as staffing requirements and operational processes. Here are a few components to add to your operations plan:

Staffing & Training:

Operational process:, equipment & software:.

Include the list of equipment and software required for the drone, such as cameras, sensors, batteries, project management software, etc.

Adding these components to your operations plan will help you lay out your business operations, which will eventually help you manage your business effectively.

7. Management Team

The management team section provides an overview of your drone business’s management team. This section should provide a detailed description of each manager’s experience and qualifications, as well as their responsibilities and roles.

Founders/CEO:

Key managers:.

Introduce your management and key members of your team, and explain their roles and responsibilities.

Organizational structure:

Compensation plan:, advisors/consultants:.

Mentioning advisors or consultants in your business plans adds credibility to your business idea.

This section should describe the key personnel for your drone business, highlighting how you have the perfect team to succeed.

8. Financial Plan

Your financial plan section should provide a summary of your business’s financial projections for the first few years. Here are some key elements to include in your financial plan:

Profit & loss statement:

Cash flow statement:, balance sheet:, break-even point:.

Determine and mention your business’s break-even point—the point at which your business costs and revenue will be equal.

Financing Needs:

Be realistic with your financial projections, and make sure you offer relevant information and evidence to support your estimates.

9. Appendix

The appendix section of your plan should include any additional information supporting your business plan’s main content, such as market research, legal documentation, financial statements, and other relevant information.

• Add a table of contents for the appendix section to help readers easily find specific information or sections.
• In addition to your financial statements, provide additional financial documents like tax returns, a list of assets within the business, credit history, and more. These statements must be the latest and offer financial projections for at least the first three or five years of business operations.
• Provide data derived from market research, including stats about the industry, user demographics, and industry trends.
• Include any legal documents such as permits, licenses, and contracts.
• Include any additional documentation related to your business plan, such as product brochures, marketing materials, operational procedures, etc.

Use clear headings and labels for each section of the appendix so that readers can easily find the necessary information.

Remember, the appendix section of your drone business plan should only include relevant and important information supporting your plan’s main content.

The Quickest Way to turn a Business Idea into a Business Plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

This sample drone business plan will provide an idea for writing a successful drone plan, including all the essential components of your business.

After this, if you still need clarification about writing an investment-ready business plan to impress your audience, download our drone business plan pdf .

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Steps for Preparing a Business Plan

Frequently asked questions, why do you need a drone business plan.

A business plan is an essential tool for anyone looking to start or run a successful drone business. It helps to get clarity in your business, secures funding, and identifies potential challenges while starting and growing your business.

Overall, a well-written plan can help you make informed decisions, which can contribute to the long-term success of your drone company.

How to get funding for your drone business?

There are several ways to get funding for your drone business, but self-funding is one of the most efficient and speedy funding options. Other options for funding are:

Small Business Administration (SBA) loan

Crowdfunding, angel investors.

Apart from all these options, there are small business grants available, check for the same in your location and you can apply for it.

Where to find business plan writers for your drone business?

There are many business plan writers available, but no one knows your business and ideas better than you, so we recommend you write your drone business plan and outline your vision as you have in your mind.

What is the easiest way to write your drone business plan?

A lot of research is necessary for writing a business plan, but you can write your plan most efficiently with the help of any drone business plan example and edit it as per your need. You can also quickly finish your plan in just a few hours or less with the help of our business plan software .

About the Author

Upmetrics Team

Upmetrics is the #1 business planning software that helps entrepreneurs and business owners create investment-ready business plans using AI. We regularly share business planning insights on our blog. Check out the Upmetrics blog for such interesting reads. Read more

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Drone Business

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Drone Business

Written by: Esther Strauss

Esther is a business strategist with over 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur, executive, educator, and management advisor.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on May 30, 2021 Updated on May 2, 2024

Investment range

$3,850 - $30,600

Revenue potential

$117,000 - $230,000 p.a.

Time to build

1 - 3 months

Profit potential

$58,000 - $82,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Just in its infancy, the drone industry is worth about $13 billion globally but expected to grow at a blistering pace in the coming years. By starting a drone business now, you could get ahead of the wave and ride it to prosperity. 

To help you get started, this guide will walk you through all the steps you should take to develop your drone business idea and get it up and running, from learning about the industry to making solid money. 

Read on to learn how to become the next great drone entrepreneur!

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Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Since the commercial drone industry is only a handful of years old, analyzing and understanding the market is essential. First, let’s see what types of drone business opportunities are out there.

Pros and cons

When analyzing an opportunity’s viability, it’s important to note both the positives and the negatives.

Here are some factors to be aware of in the drone industry:

• Exponential industry growth
• Straightforward certification process
• Be your own boss, choose your niche
• Privacy issues
• Potential for strict regulations
• Risk of misuse by bad actors

Drone industry trends

The global commercial drone industry is poised for a strong growth and expected to expand  further into segments such as delivery, agriculture, security, construction and real estate, mining, mapping, imaging, filmmaking and more. The general trend is growth and opportunity! 

Industry size and growth

• Industry size and past growth – The US drone market is worth $1.2 billion.(( https://www.statista.com/outlook/cmo/consumer-electronics/drones/united-states ))  
• Growth forecast – Analyst Grand View Research expects the global commercial drone industry to grow at a stunning 58% annual rate through 2028, reaching $132 billion.(( https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/global-commercial-drones-market ))

Trends and challenges

These are some of the trends shaping the drone industry:

• Increasing use of drones for business purposes in several industries
• Drone are also used for crop and livestock monitoring, irrigation management , and fertilization
• Rise of open-source drones

Some challenges faced by the industry include:

• Compliance issues
• Easy target for hijacking
• Identification system for drones and their operators

How much does it cost to start a drone business?

If you start a drone business from home in a niche like photography, you could launch with as little as $8,000, or even less if you’re able to negotiate monthly payments for your insurance.

For someone looking to go all out in an advanced niche such as agriculture, you should expect to spend $100,000 or more. This estimate covers multiple advanced drones and the first month’s rent and wages for two employees.

On average, though, you should be prepared to spend $30,000 to start your drone business, with a basic office, one full-time employee, and two mid-range drones.

How much can you earn from a drone business?

Naturally, a drone software company will have very different rates from a drone piloting company. So let’s break down an example from a pilot business.

Standard services for drone pilots are inspections, photography, and thermal imaging. How much you earn from your drone business will be determined by the sector you serve and how busy you are.

While most UAV pilots charge per project, the hourly rate equivalent is around $150 for real estate or $200 for oil & gas .

In your first year or two, you could work from home and generate 15 billable hours a week at an average of $150 per hour. This would mean $117,000 in annual revenue and more than $58,000 in profit, assuming a 50% margin. As your brand gains recognition, your billable hours could double to 30 a week. At this stage, you’d rent a commercial space and hire staff, reducing your profit margin to around 35%. With annual revenue of $230,000, you’d make a tidy profit of $82,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

Before you jump into the drone business, some barriers can make entry difficult. While they aren’t impossible to pass, it’s good to be aware of them.

• FAA Remote Pilot Certificate
• Local and state drone laws

The first step to starting your drone business is to be FAA certified. You’ll need to pass the Part 107 test with a score of at least 70% to become a commercial drone pilot. The regulatory laws  will depend on where you live, so make sure to research your local laws to determine whether starting a drone business is viable.

If you want to target large organizations with your skills, you’ll likely need experience. Pilot projects, for example, may require a certain number of flight hours or a safety record before a company may consider hiring you.

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know all about the industry, it’s time to start thinking about the finer details of your business. First, we’ll start with choosing a niche.

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

Your competition is any business that targets the same market as you. Before you start your own business, it’s always a good idea to learn from those that have found some success in the industry. 

Take some time to search for drone businesses in your niche and see what they have to offer, in terms of services and prices. Here are some questions you can ask yourself during the research process:

• Are they meeting customer expectations?
• Have they priced their services reasonably?
• What is their unique value proposition?
• Are they using the latest technology?
• Is there an in-demand service they don’t provide?

What? Determine your services

There are many niches that you can choose from as a drone business owner. Your niche will be the industry you specialize in and the service you provide. Start by determining the service you will provide. Here are your choices:

• Drone piloting means you can do anything from filmmaking to precision agriculture and geographical mapping. Starting a drone photography business is the most common option when it comes to capturing aerial footage.
• Drone repair services are in demand as the use of drones increases sharply.
• Drone course providers train other budding drone pilots.
• Drone software and peripheral businesses develop applications that help drone pilots complete their projects. There is also an opportunity to create accessories and peripheral devices for drone users, for example, creating cameras to improve drone photography. 
• Drone rental is not the most unique business model , but there’s opportunity here.  While there are essential options that may cost a few thousand dollars, commercial drones decked out with high-grade equipment can cost tens of thousands—even six figures in some cases.

How much should you charge for drones?

How much you charge will depend on your experience level, what your market deems fair value, and your competitors’ rates.

Before you decide on a price, you should estimate your break-even point. To do this, consider all your ongoing costs such as rent, utilities, insurance, and software. Once you have your number, divide it by your estimated billable hours per month. This number will be the point that you cannot go under for your services.

Next, you’ll need to add a reasonable profit margin so that you’re compensated for your efforts. An excellent place to start is with a 40% – 50% profit margin, but you can tailor this to your particular situation. 

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Identifying your target market is an integral part of business success. Within your chosen niche, there may be many different customers that can benefit from your services. But instead of targeting all of them, you should focus on a segment that you can serve best.

Let’s say you choose to focus on real estate photography . Will you orient your brand towards franchises and well-known brands, or would you prefer to work with independent agencies? Will you specialize in luxury or commercial real estate?

These are just a few of the questions you need to answer to find your target market.

Where? Choose your business premises

Where your business is based will have an impact on your success. It’s always a good idea to have an office that’s close to your target market. But, if you’re starting your business from home, you’ll just have to ramp up your marketing and outreach efforts to get your name out there.

One more thing you may consider is your state’s drone regulations and service demands. If you’re in a state with stringent laws or low customer demand, you may need to relocate to make your drone business a reality.

You can find commercial space to rent in your area on sites such as Craigslist , Crexi , and Instant Offices .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Drone Business Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• The name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “drones” or “drone images”, boosts SEO
• Choose a name that allows for expansion: “SkyView Drones” over “Urban Mapping Drones” or “Construction Drone Solutions”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

Powered by GoDaddy.com

Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that set your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Drone Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: A concise overview of the drone business, highlighting key aspects like its mission, goals, and potential for success.
• Business Overview: A comprehensive description of the drone business, outlining its mission, vision, values, and the problem it aims to solve in the market.
• Product and Services: Clearly defined details about the drones and related services offered, emphasizing unique features and benefits.
• Market Analysis: In-depth research on the drone industry, identifying target markets, customer needs, and trends to exploit business opportunities effectively.
• Competitive Analysis: Examination of competitors in the drone market, highlighting strengths, weaknesses, and strategies to gain a competitive edge.
• Sales and Marketing: A strategic plan for promoting and selling drones, including pricing, distribution channels, and promotional activities to reach the target audience.
• Management Team: Introduction to the key individuals responsible for managing and steering the drone business, showcasing their skills and expertise.
• Operations Plan: A detailed outline of how the drone business will operate, covering logistics, supply chain, and any other operational considerations.
• Financial Plan: A comprehensive overview of the financial aspects, including startup costs, revenue projections, and financial forecasts for sustained growth.
• Appendix: Additional supporting documents, such as market research data, resumes of key team members, or any supplementary information relevant to the drone business plan.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to drones. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state.

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your drone business will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just needs to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

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Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans : This is the most common method, but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans : The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants : A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Venture capital : Offer potential investors an ownership stake in exchange for funds, keeping in mind that you would be sacrificing some control over your business.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best options, other than friends and family, for funding a drone business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept.

Step 8: Apply for Drone Business Licenses and Permits

Starting a drone business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your drone business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account.

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of any of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks. 

You may want to use these tools and software options: DarkSky , which provides hyperlocal weather info so you aren’t caught out in a sudden storm; Measure all-in-one solution for drone mapping, flight data, and program management; and DroneDeploy flight app that allows you to capture panoramas, photos, maps, and videos.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using website builders . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

They are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google. 

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Professional Branding — Ensure your branding reflects high-tech efficiency, innovation, and reliability, from your logo to your website design and marketing materials.
• Website and SEO — Develop a website showcasing your drone services or products with detailed descriptions, client testimonials, and case studies. Optimize for keywords related to drones and aerial services.
• Social Media Engagement — Use LinkedIn for B2B networking, Instagram for aerial imagery, and YouTube for sharing drone-captured footage.
• Direct Outreach — Network with sectors like real estate, construction, and event planning at trade shows and networking events.
• Content Marketing — Maintain an industry-specific blog and create video content that demonstrates your drones’ capabilities and provides educational insights into drone technology.
• Webinars and Online Workshops — Host online events on drone photography techniques, industry-specific applications, and technological advancements.
• Experiential Marketing — Provide live demonstrations and participate in industry events to showcase your expertise and the potential of drones.
• Partnerships — Collaborate with complementary businesses such as photography studios or surveying companies to broaden your service offerings.
• Customer Training and Certifications — Offer drone operation training and certification courses to build expertise and long-term customer relationships.
• Referral Programs — Implement a referral program that rewards clients for bringing new customers to your business.
• Targeted Advertising and Email Marketing — Use targeted online advertising and email campaigns to reach potential clients in relevant industries, updating them on new services and industry news.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that set it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your drone business meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your drone business could be:

• The most advanced drones providing the best surveillance
• Drone photography wizardry
• Your drone repaired in one day or less! 

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a drone business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in a drone business for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in drones. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. Online businesses might also consider affiliate marketing as a way to build relationships with potential partners and boost business.

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a drone business would include:

• Drone Operators/Repair
• General Manager
• Marketing Lead 

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Drone Business – Start Making Money!

Although the drone industry is new, it offers a wealth of possibilities, from agriculture to delivery, construction to surveillance, and more. Niching down helps to focus your services and business processes, leading to greater efficiency. It’ll also help you build your brand faster so you can take a slice of this fast growing market. 

You did right by seeking guidance on how to start a business. With all the knowledge you just acquired, you’re ready to start droning and making good money! But you might want to bookmark this page just in case. Good luck!

• Drone Business FAQs

Since every project is different, drone service providers usually charge on a per-project basis. But, to give you a rough idea, the average rate works out to around $150 per hour. This rate also varies depending on the industry you serve.

To become a certified drone pilot, you’ll need to obtain your FAA Remote Pilot Certificate. You’ll need to pass the test with a score of at least 70% and recertify every two years.

Before buying a drone, you should understand the different types, identify essential features, consider any additional accessories you might need, and familiarize yourself with the relevant regulations.

Certain sectors, like aerial photography and videography, real estate marketing, or inspection services, have shown profitable opportunities for drone businesses.

Operating a drone can vary in difficulty based on the model’s complexity, the flight’s purpose, and the operating environment. However, basic drone operation is generally straightforward and can be learned quickly, especially with user-friendly consumer drones available today.

Drone mapping can be a profitable venture, particularly in industries such as construction, agriculture, land surveying, or infrastructure inspection. Drone mapping offers benefits like cost and time efficiency, accuracy, and access to hard-to-reach areas. 

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Drone Business Name
• Create a Drone Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Drone Business Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Drone Business - Start Making Money!

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[2023] How to Start a Drone Business: A Comprehensive Guide

• October 31, 2023
• Drone Business Opportunities

Quick Answer: Starting a drone business can be a lucrative venture with the right knowledge and preparation. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Table of Contents

Quick Answer

Quick tips and facts, why start a drone business, how to start a drone business under part 107 faa drone rules, overview of part 107 faa drone rules for starting a drone business, top drone business ideas, obstacles, challenges, and tips for starting a drone business, custom training.

• Recommended Links

Reference Links

Starting a drone business can be an exciting and profitable venture. With the drone market projected to reach $48.88 billion by 2023, there are ample opportunities for entrepreneurs to capitalize on this growing industry [1] . Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you start your own drone business:

• Research and Plan : Understand the drone industry, identify your target market, and develop a business plan.
• Obtain Part 107 Certification : Study for and pass the Part 107 exam to become a certified drone pilot.
• Register Your Drone : Register your drone with the FAA if it weighs more than 0.55 pounds.
• Develop Your Business Structure : Decide on the legal structure of your business and register it accordingly.
• Invest in Equipment : Purchase high-quality drones and necessary accessories for your business.
• Market Your Services : Create a professional website, establish a strong online presence, and network with potential clients.
• Obtain Insurance : Protect your business and assets by getting appropriate drone insurance.
• Establish Business Operations : Set up efficient workflows, manage finances, and maintain proper documentation.
• Stay Updated with Regulations : Stay informed about the latest FAA drone rules and regulations to ensure compliance.
• Offer Exceptional Service : Provide excellent customer service and deliver high-quality results to build a strong reputation.

Remember, starting a drone business requires dedication, continuous learning, and adaptability. By following these steps and staying committed to your goals, you can successfully launch and grow your drone business.

Shopping Links: Drones | Drone Accessories | Drone Insurance

• The drone market is projected to reach $48.88 billion by 2023 [^1] .
• The integration of drones in the U.S. is expected to have an economic impact of over $82.1 billion between 2015 and 2025 [^1] .
• Starting a drone business offers relatively low start-up costs and numerous vertical opportunities [^1] .
• To start a drone business, you need to obtain a Part 107 certification from the FAA [^1] .
• Top drone business ideas include commercial inspections, mapping and modeling, photography/videography, and precision agriculture [^1] .

Watch the video on YouTube .

Before diving into the details of starting a drone business, let’s take a moment to understand the history and significance of drones in various industries. Drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), have revolutionized sectors such as photography, videography, agriculture, construction, and more.

Drones have become increasingly popular due to their ability to capture stunning aerial footage, collect data, and perform tasks that were previously time-consuming and costly. With advancements in technology, drones have become more accessible and affordable, making them an attractive tool for businesses of all sizes.

Starting a drone business offers numerous advantages and opportunities. Here are some compelling reasons to consider:

Industry Growth : The drone industry is experiencing rapid growth, with a projected market value of $48.88 billion by 2023 [^1] . This growth presents ample opportunities for entrepreneurs to enter the market and establish successful businesses.

Low Start-up Costs : Compared to many other businesses, starting a drone business requires relatively low initial investment. With a quality drone and essential accessories, you can start offering services to clients without breaking the bank.

High Demand : Drones are in high demand across various industries, including real estate, agriculture, construction, and more. Businesses and individuals are increasingly seeking drone services for aerial photography, inspections, mapping, and other applications.

Vertical Opportunities : Drones can be used in a wide range of industries, allowing you to choose a niche that aligns with your interests and expertise. Whether it’s real estate photography, agricultural mapping, or industrial inspections, there are numerous verticals to explore.

Reasonable Certification Process : Obtaining a Part 107 certification from the FAA is a reasonable and achievable process. With proper study and preparation, you can become a certified drone pilot and legally operate your business.

To start a drone business under Part 107 FAA drone rules, follow these steps:

Research and Plan : Conduct thorough research on the drone industry, market demand, and potential competitors. Develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, target market, services, and marketing strategies.

Obtain Part 107 Certification : The Part 107 certification is a requirement for commercial drone operations in the United States. Study the FAA’s Remote Pilot – Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) Aeronautical Knowledge Test Guide and take the Part 107 exam at an approved testing center. Once you pass the exam, you’ll receive a temporary certificate, and the FAA will issue a permanent certificate within a few weeks.

Register Your Drone : If your drone weighs more than 0.55 pounds, you must register it with the FAA. Visit the FAA’s DroneZone website to complete the registration process and receive a unique registration number to display on your drone.

Develop Your Business Structure : Decide on the legal structure of your business, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited liability company (LLC). Consult with a lawyer or business advisor to determine the best structure for your specific needs.

Invest in Equipment : Purchase high-quality drones and necessary accessories for your business. Consider factors such as flight time, camera quality, payload capacity, and durability when selecting drones. Additionally, invest in backup batteries, memory cards, propellers, and other essential accessories.

Market Your Services : Create a professional website that showcases your services, portfolio, and contact information. Utilize social media platforms, online directories, and industry-specific forums to promote your business. Network with potential clients, attend industry events, and offer special promotions to attract customers.

Obtain Insurance : Protect your business and assets by obtaining appropriate drone insurance. Drone insurance can cover liability, equipment damage, and other potential risks associated with operating a drone business. Research insurance providers that specialize in drone coverage and choose a policy that suits your needs.

Establish Business Operations : Set up efficient workflows for client communication, project management, and data storage. Keep detailed records of flights, maintenance, and client interactions. Use professional software and tools to streamline your operations and ensure smooth business processes.

Stay Updated with Regulations : The drone industry is constantly evolving, and regulations may change over time. Stay informed about the latest FAA drone rules and regulations to ensure compliance. Regularly check the FAA’s website and subscribe to industry newsletters for updates.

Offer Exceptional Service : Provide exceptional customer service and deliver high-quality results to build a strong reputation. Focus on exceeding client expectations, maintaining professionalism, and continuously improving your skills and knowledge.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to starting a successful drone business under Part 107 FAA drone rules.

Under Part 107 FAA drone rules, there are specific regulations that drone pilots must adhere to when operating a drone for commercial purposes. Here’s an overview of the key rules:

Registration : Drones weighing more than 0.55 pounds must be registered with the FAA. Register your drone on the FAA’s DroneZone website and display the unique registration number on your drone.

Part 107 Certification : To operate a drone for commercial purposes, you must obtain a Part 107 certification from the FAA. This involves studying for and passing the Part 107 exam, which tests your knowledge of aeronautical concepts, airspace regulations, and drone operation.

Preflight Inspections : Before each flight, conduct a thorough preflight inspection of your drone to ensure it is in proper working condition. Check the battery, propellers, camera, and other components for any signs of damage or malfunction.

Remote Pilot in Command : Designate a remote pilot in command (RPIC) who is responsible for the safe operation of the drone. The RPIC must have a valid Part 107 certification and be present at the control station during the flight.

Visual Line of Sight : Maintain visual line of sight with the drone at all times during the flight. This means you must be able to see the drone with your naked eye without the use of binoculars or other visual aids.

Daytime Operations : Fly your drone only during daylight hours, defined as the period from official sunrise to official sunset. Nighttime operations are prohibited unless you have obtained a waiver from the FAA.

No Flying Over People : Do not fly your drone over people who are not directly participating in the operation or under a covered structure. This rule is in place to ensure the safety of individuals on the ground.

Altitude and Speed Restrictions : Fly your drone no higher than 400 feet above ground level and no faster than 100 miles per hour. These restrictions help prevent interference with manned aircraft and ensure safe operations.

Right of Way : Yield the right of way to all other aircraft, including manned aircraft and other drones. Maintain a safe distance from other aircraft and avoid any potential collisions.

It’s essential to familiarize yourself with all the Part 107 FAA drone rules and ensure compliance to operate your drone business legally and safely.

Starting a drone business opens up a world of possibilities. Here are some top drone business ideas to consider:

Commercial Inspections : Offer aerial inspections for infrastructure, buildings, and utilities. Drones can provide detailed visual inspections, saving time and reducing risks associated with manual inspections.

Mapping and Modeling : Use drones to capture aerial imagery and create 3D models of landscapes, construction sites, and real estate properties. This service is valuable for urban planning, architecture, and land surveying.

Photography/Videography : Provide professional aerial photography and videography services for weddings, real estate listings, events, and marketing campaigns. Drones can capture stunning aerial shots that were previously only possible with expensive helicopter rentals.

Precision Agriculture : Assist farmers in optimizing crop yields and monitoring plant health by using drones equipped with specialized sensors. Drones can capture multispectral imagery, helping farmers make data-driven decisions.

Public Safety : Collaborate with law enforcement, fire departments, and search and rescue teams to provide aerial support during emergencies. Drones can aid in search operations, disaster assessment, and situational awareness.

Drone Advertising/Marketing : Offer unique advertising opportunities by flying banners, LED screens, or promotional materials attached to drones. This eye-catching approach can attract attention at events, festivals, and high-traffic areas.

Drone Repair Services : Specialize in repairing and maintaining drones for individuals and businesses. As the drone market grows, the demand for reliable repair services will increase.

These are just a few examples of the many drone business ideas available. Explore different verticals, identify market demands, and tailor your services to meet specific industry needs.

While starting a drone business can be rewarding, it’s important to be aware of the obstacles and challenges you may face. Here are some common challenges and tips to overcome them:

Insurance : Obtaining drone insurance is crucial to protect your business from potential liabilities. Research insurance providers that specialize in drone coverage and choose a policy that suits your needs.

Marketing : Building a client base and establishing your brand can be challenging in a competitive market. Invest in professional marketing strategies, create a strong online presence, and network with potential clients in your target industries.

Portfolios : Clients often rely on portfolios to assess the quality of your work. Build a diverse portfolio showcasing your skills and capabilities. Offer discounted or pro bono services to gain experience and expand your portfolio.

Flight Records Management : Keep detailed records of your flights, including flight logs, maintenance records, and client information. This documentation is essential for compliance, troubleshooting, and maintaining a professional image.

Pricing Structure : Determine competitive pricing for your services based on factors such as market rates, your experience, and the complexity of the project. Consider offering package deals or discounts for long-term contracts to attract clients.

FAA Waivers/Authorizations : Some drone operations may require waivers or authorizations from the FAA. Familiarize yourself with the waiver application process and stay updated on the latest requirements.

Staying Within FAA Drone Rules : Compliance with FAA drone rules is crucial for the safety of your operations and the reputation of your business. Stay informed about any rule changes, attend industry conferences, and participate in continuing education programs to stay up to date.

Starting a drone business requires dedication, perseverance, and continuous learning. Overcoming these challenges will help you build a successful and sustainable business.

At Drone Brands™, we are passionate about drones and the endless possibilities they offer. As experts in the drone industry, we provide comprehensive information, reviews, and recommendations to help drone enthusiasts and professionals make informed decisions.

Looking for personalized training to start your drone business? At Drone Brands™, we offer custom training programs tailored to your specific needs. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the process of obtaining your Part 107 certification and provide valuable insights into starting and growing a successful drone business.

Contact us today to discuss your training requirements and take the first step towards launching your drone business.

Have questions or need further assistance? We’re here to help! Contact our team at Drone Brands™ for expert advice, product recommendations, and support. Reach out to us via email or phone, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

How profitable is a drone business?

The profitability of a drone business depends on various factors, including market demand, competition, pricing, and operational costs. With the right strategies, skills, and marketing efforts, a drone business can be highly profitable. However, it’s important to conduct thorough market research, develop a solid business plan, and continuously adapt to changing market conditions.

Read more about “… Small Drone Business Ideas: 30 Lucrative Opportunities to Take Flight”

How hard is it to start a drone business?

Starting a drone business requires a combination of technical knowledge, business acumen, and regulatory compliance. While the process may seem daunting at first, with proper preparation and dedication, it is achievable. Obtaining a Part 107 certification, developing a business plan, and building a strong client base are key steps to success. Continuous learning, staying updated with regulations, and providing exceptional service are essential for long-term growth.

Read more about “… How Profitable Are Drone Businesses? Insights and Opportunities”

Is it legal to make money with a drone?

Yes, it is legal to make money with a drone as long as you comply with the FAA’s Part 107 regulations. These regulations outline the requirements for commercial drone operations, including obtaining a Part 107 certification, registering your drone (if applicable), and following specific flight rules. By adhering to these regulations and obtaining the necessary certifications, you can legally operate a drone business and generate income.

Read more about “… Drone Business Start-Up Costs: Everything You Need to Know”

How do I set up a drone company?

To set up a drone company, follow these steps:

• Research the drone industry and identify your target market.
• Develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, services, and marketing strategies.
• Register your business and obtain any necessary licenses or permits.
• Purchase high-quality drones and essential accessories.
• Create a professional website and establish a strong online presence.
• Develop a marketing strategy to attract clients and build your brand.
• Establish efficient business operations, including workflows and documentation.
• Stay updated with regulations and ensure compliance with FAA drone rules.
• Provide exceptional service to build a strong reputation and client base.

By following these steps and continuously adapting to market demands, you can successfully set up and grow your drone company.

Read more about “… The Best Drone Company in the World: Revolutionizing Technology and Applications”

Starting a drone business can be a rewarding and profitable venture. With the drone market projected to reach $48.88 billion by 2023, there are ample opportunities for entrepreneurs to capitalize on this growing industry [^1] . By following the steps outlined in this guide, conducting thorough research, obtaining the necessary certifications, and providing exceptional service, you can launch and grow a successful drone business.

Remember to stay updated with FAA drone rules, continuously improve your skills, and adapt to changing market conditions. With dedication and perseverance, you can turn your passion for drones into a thriving business.

Recommended Links: Drone Manufacturers | Drone Brand Guides | Drone Business Opportunities | Beginner Drones | Drone Business Ideas

Reference Links: How to Make Money With a Drone: Starting a Drone Business | FAA Drone Rules | Drone Market Growth

Block-level Shopping Links

CHECK PRICE on: Drones | Drone Accessories | Drone Insurance | Walmart | eBay

Shop DJI on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | DJI Official Website

Shop Yuneec on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Yuneec Official Website

Shop Autel Robotics on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Autel Robotics Official Website

Shop Parrot on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Parrot Official Website

Shop Holy Stone on: Amazon | Walmart | eBay | Holy Stone Official Website

• [^1] Drone Market to hit USD 48.88 Billion by 2023
• FAA Drone Rules
• How to Make Money With a Drone: Starting a Drone Business

Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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How to Start a Drone Business [Comprehensive Guide]

• Updated on January 30, 2024
• By Jerry Ouellette

Ever wondered how to start a drone business that can soar as high as your aspirations? We’re here in the land of opportunity, ready to pilot our dreams into the wide-open skies of entrepreneurship. If you’re like us, captivated by the buzz of propellers, envisioning drones sweeping across the horizon, then it’s time to turn those daydreams into reality.

First things first, let’s lay down the groundwork. Have you planned out the essential steps? We know the drill – it’s not just about having high-tech gadgets or mastering the art of flight. There’s a lot more to it. For instance, have you thought about the market you’re targeting? Or the legal hoops you’ll need to jump through? Don’t worry, because we’re diving into this together.

We’ll be exploring questions like, “What services can we offer?” and “How do we navigate FAA regulations?” After all, getting it right from the get-go sets us up for a smoother flight path. Plus, we all enjoy a good laugh, so expect a few jokes about drone traffic and the ‘high’ life along the way. This won’t just be informative, but also a hoot!

Now, let’s get our heads out of the clouds and start with something tangible. Our goal is to build a drone business with a rock-solid foundation. Think clear skies, a strong business plan, and a grasp on the techy stuff without getting tangled in jargon. So, come aboard as we embark on this high-flying adventure. Are you ready to take off with us?

Key Takeaways

• Starting a drone business requires careful planning, and it’s essential to follow a structured approach. We need to assess the market, understand regulations, and choose a niche that suits our interests and skills.
• It’s all about the legal side too. We can’t skip over obtaining necessary certifications and insurance. After all, we want our drone business to soar high without any legal turbulence, right?
• Equipment matters a lot – choosing the right drones and accessories sets us apart from hobbyists. We must invest in quality to deliver quality, ensuring our services are top-notch and our clients are thrilled.
• Business acumen and networking are our wings in this game. We can’t fly solo and expect success. Building connections and marketing our business effectively keeps our drone business on the radar.
• Finally, staying updated with technology and industry trends is non-negotiable. We’ve got to keep our blades sharp and our minds sharper to outmaneuver the competition and capture the best opportunities.

Remember, while the skies are the limit, the foundation of our drone business is grounded in good practices. With these takeaways, we’re not just ready to take off; we’re primed to reach new heights. Are you with us? Let’s make it happen!

Understanding the Drone Industry

As entrepreneurs, we’re constantly on the lookout for emerging markets with real growth potential.

The drone industry is soaring, presenting savvy business enthusiasts a sky-high opportunity. But where do we begin?

Let’s navigate the clouds and dive into what it takes to start a drone business.

Current market trends in drone technology and services

First off, staying ahead means keeping our eyes on current market trends. Drone technology has advanced rapidly.

Consumer drones are a hit, but the real growth is in commercial use. Think of delivery services, for instance!

Our research must gauge which technological innovations and services are in demand.

Different niches within the drone industry

Now, let’s talk niches; there’s more to drones than just flying cameras. Aerial photography is hot for real estate and events.

But have you thought about inspections? Drones can access tricky spots on buildings or power lines safely.

And in agriculture? Farmers are using drones for crop monitoring and health assessment. It’s a game-changer!

Case studies of successful drone businesses

To learn, we look at the winners. Case studies of successful drone businesses offer invaluable insights.

They reveal strategies, what clients want, and the hurdles they overcome. Plus, financials are key.

We study their paths to appreciate how our drone venture might take flight.

For those of us wondering how to start our own drone business , we’ve got to scale our ambition to the sky!

It starts with homework – understanding the industry’s pulse and the niches ripe for innovation.

We’re talking about capitalizing on aerial prowess. Are we ready to fly?

Legal Requirements and Certifications

Overview of drone regulations and the importance of compliance.

Starting a drone business requires a solid understanding of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules. As we navigate the skies, compliance is a must. Knowing and adhering to these guidelines ensures we operate legally. It also helps us maintain a favorable reputation among clients and the public.

How to obtain a drone pilot license or certification

To legally use a drone for business, getting certified is non-negotiable. The process begins with preparing for the FAA Part 107 exam. This includes studying aeronautical charts and weather reports. Once we’re ready, we pass the test, and voilà, we get our drone license . This is our ticket into the commercial drone space.

Insurance requirements for drone operations

Besides legal compliance, we must secure our business against the unexpected. That’s why getting the right drone insurance matters. It protects us from liability in case of accidents or damage. This step isn’t just prudent—it’s often required by clients who want peace of mind.

Privacy laws and ethical considerations

In our line of work, we frequently deal with sensitive data and personal privacy. Striking a balance between capturing the shots we need and respecting privacy laws is crucial. Our ethics here not only safeguard our clients but also our business’s integrity.

Creating a Business Plan for Your Drone Business

Identifying your target market and setting business objectives.

When we consider launching a drone business, it’s critical to nail down who our customers will be. Are we focusing on real estate agencies needing aerial shots or are we targeting agricultural clients for drone mapping business services ? Understanding our niche is key to establishing clear business objectives. We must set measurable goals, which could include the number of client engagements or revenue targets for the first year. Do we want to become the go-to drone video business in our area?

Conducting market research and competitive analysis

We must dive into market research to assess the demand for our drone services. What are the trends? Who are our biggest competitors, and what are they offering? By evaluating the competitive landscape, we can position our drone photo business advantageously. We need to uncover our unique value proposition. This could mean specialized services, such as drone light show business operations, that set us apart and draw in a specific clientele.

Outlining services and pricing

Now, let’s talk about services and how much to charge. Our offerings could range from aerial photography for weddings to precision agriculture mapping. Each service should reflect the value we bring and the cost of operation. We don’t want to undersell ourselves but remember that pricing too high could deter potential customers. It’s a balancing act, and it might take some tweaking. Transparency with clients about what they’re paying for is crucial for our credibility and their satisfaction.

Financial planning: startup costs, forecasting, and funding options

Starting a drone business means facing startup costs head-on. These can include the drones themselves, licensing, insurance, and marketing. We need to forecast our finances, projecting revenue against these costs. What’s our break-even point? Funding options might be loans, angel investors, or bootstrapping. Let’s calculate conservatively and always plan for unexpected expenses, because they will come up. It’s not just about getting off the ground; it’s about staying aloft.

Using these strategies, we place ourselves on the runway for a successful takeoff in the drone business industry. With each decision, from pinpointing our market to crunching the numbers, we’re building a strong foundation for our high-flying entrepreneurial dreams.

Drone Equipment and Technology

When it comes to launching a drone business, choosing the right equipment is crucial. We need to balance budget and performance. Our drones must be reliable, capable, and adaptable to various applications. Whether we are focusing on aerial photography, mapping, or inspection services, the performance and features of our drones must align with customer needs.

Selecting the right drone equipment for your business

Consider the payload capacity, battery life, and camera resolution when selecting drones. We know that our clients expect high-quality imagery and video, and this will require drones equipped with top-notch cameras. Also, if we plan to offer services like 3D mapping or thermal imaging, we’ll need drones that support these specific technologies.

Maintenance and safety protocols for your drones

Maintaining our drones is non-negotiable for ensuring safety and longevity of the equipment. We always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for care and routine checks. We also prioritize training for our pilots in drone safety protocols. This minimizes risks and ensures our operations comply with FAA regulations.

Utilizing drone software and data analysis tools

Drone software isn’t just for flying. It’s essential for analyzing the data we collect. Our investments in software can differentiate our services through precise data analysis. Features like image stitching for panoramic views or vegetation index calculation for agriculture clients add valuable insights to our offerings.

The importance of keeping abreast of emerging drone technologies

We stay updated with the latest drone tech trends. Advancements like obstacle avoidance systems and automated flight patterns can greatly enhance our services. Upgrading to new technologies can be costly, but the benefits of improved efficiency and expanded service capabilities may outweigh the costs in the long-run.

Branding and Marketing Your Drone Business

Naming your business and creating a logo.

When thinking about how to start a drone business, branding tops the list. A memorable name and logo give our venture an identity. They can tell a story, evoke emotions, and create lasting impressions. Think simple, snappy, and drone-centric for the name. For the logo, consider sleek and modern designs; they resonate well in the tech sphere. We want potential clients to remember us at first glance, ensuring we stand out in the crowded drone market.

Building a professional website and optimizing it for SEO

A slick website is our digital storefront, vital for showcasing our drone services. It must be user-friendly and visually striking, highlighting our portfolio and customer testimonials. But beauty isn’t enough; the site must be easy to find. Hence, we optimize for search engines, focusing on keywords related to drone services. By doing this, we increase our visibility to those searching for drone pilots and solutions, effectively turning our website into a client magnet.

Social media strategies and content marketing for drone businesses

Our social media platforms are not just profiles—they are powerful tools to engage with our audience. We harness the visual appeal of our drone footage to create compelling content that skyrockets our engagement rates. Regular postings with #dronephotography or #droneservices help us reach a broader audience. Coupled with insightful blog posts about drone tech and applications, we establish our authority in the field. This content marketing positions us as knowledgeable and approachable, essential for client trust.

Interactive posts, like polls and quizzes about drones, also stir up conversations and keep us fresh in the minds of our followers. It’s a balance of show-and-tell and engagement, inviting potential clients to see our expertise in action.

Networking within the drone community and at industry events

Networking is key in the drone business. It lets us build relationships with peers, clients, and industry leaders. We attend expos and join online forums to stay current on trends and opportunities. Our presence in these communities can lead to partnerships or referrals. They are invaluable for a business in such a tech-forward and evolving industry. By fostering these connections, we strengthen the foundation of our business, ready to soar to new heights.

Starting a drone business is an exciting journey. By focusing on robust branding and marketing, we lay the groundwork for success. We make a name for ourselves, establish a digital presence, engage with our audience on social media, and network tirelessly. Each of these steps prepares us to take off in this innovative industry.

Operating Your Drone Business

Best practices for client engagement and project management.

When building relationships with clients, communication is key. We always keep lines open and clear. This ensures expectations are managed and projects stay on track. A handy tip is using project management tools like Trello or Asana. They simplify task delegation and progress tracking, which clients love.

Regular updates are another pillar of client satisfaction. We hold weekly check-ins for ongoing projects. This guarantees clients are always in the loop. Moreover, we utilize collaboration tools such as Slack or Google Workspace. They foster a sense of involvement and partnership with our clients.

Lastly, we ensure all contracts and agreements are straightforward and protect both parties. Transparency with terms avoids future misunderstandings. And it builds long-term trust. These documents are not just formalities; they are the foundations of successful engagements.

Effective strategies for quality control and delivering outstanding service

Quality control is at the heart of service delivery. We have a rigorous pre-flight checklist. This helps to minimize risks and technical issues. Every drone operation includes a thorough inspection and test flight. Ensuring we deliver only the best footage or data.

Post-flight, we review all captured content. We check for clarity, stability, and accuracy. That way, we guarantee that what we deliver meets not just industry standards, but our own high expectations. It’s critical to invest in good editing software. It polishes the raw material into a professional, final product.

Drones are just a tool; our expertise is the real product. We continuously train and stay current with FAA regulations. We don’t just fly drones; we provide solutions using our aerial perspective. This approach defines us and keeps clients coming back.

Streamlining operations with the right tools and software

Selecting the right tools simplifies our workflow and amplifies our efficiency. We use flight planning software like Skyward or AirMap. These help plan safe and legal flights, vital for operation in varied airspace. Tech aids in task management but also keeps us compliant.

Data management is another key aspect. Using cloud storage solutions enables easy access and sharing capabilities. Security is not a concern, as these platforms offer robust encryption. Clients appreciate quick and secure access to their data, making their experience with us seamless.

Finally, regular maintenance of our equipment ensures peak performance. We keep logs for each drone, tracking repairs and updates. These practices reduce downtime. They boost our reliability — an essential quality for any thriving drone business.

Scaling Your Drone Business

Welcome to the exciting world of drones! As drone enthusiasts, we all share the dream of turning our passion into a profitable venture. Let’s dive right into scaling our drone businesses, focusing on strategic growth while avoiding common pitfalls.

Hiring employees or working with contractors

When it’s time to expand, deciding between hiring employees or working with contractors is crucial. Each has its strengths and operational logistics. Employees offer commitment and can grow with our company. Contractors, on the other hand, bring specialized skills for specific tasks without long-term commitments.

Hiring employees means investing in training and development. We’re building a team that aligns with our brand’s vision and work ethic. But remember, this also includes payroll taxes, benefits, and insurance – numbers and paperwork that can add up quickly.

Working with contractors is often more flexible. We pay for the service without the added overhead. However, we must have clear contracts to protect our interests. And we must stay on top of market rates to keep these skilled individuals on board.

Expanding your service offerings and market reach

Diversity in services can set us apart in the drone business. Think aerial photography, mapping, inspections, or surveillance. Each new service might open doors to untapped markets. So, ask yourselves: what needs can our drones fulfill that we haven’t explored yet?

Market reach is about finding our audience, wherever they may be. We could start locally, then regionally, eventually taking our business national. With a thoughtful strategy, our presence online and offline will grow, reaching more customers who need our unique drone services.

Partnerships can also propel our business forward. Forming alliances with industry players can lead to referrals. It’s about who knows you, not just who you know. Collaborating with complementary businesses can also expand our market reach substantially, so let’s network!

Investing in additional equipment and technology

The right equipment is the backbone of any drone business. As we scale, upgrading our fleet with the latest models makes sense. More drones mean more flights, simultaneously capturing diverse data or imagery for our clients. Efficient multi-tasking? Yes, please!

Technology is also vital. Software that allows for better flight planning, data analysis, or even battery management can save us time and money. It’s about working smarter, not harder. Investing in tech upgrades keeps our operations lean and competitive.

We also need to keep an eye on regulatory changes and ensure any new equipment complies with laws. Safety is paramount, and adhering to regulations keeps our business flying high. It’s a balance of cutting-edge tech and responsible operation. After all, our reputation is on the line.

With astute planning and smart choices in hiring, service expansion, and technology investments, our drone venture is poised for a successful takeoff. Let’s keep pushing the boundaries, and allow our drone business to soar to new heights!

Challenges and Risk Management

When venturing into the drone business , understanding the industry’s challenges is crucial. It’s not simply about flying drones; it’s a complex operation with inherent risks. We must navigate these waters carefully.

Identifying potential risks in drone business operations

First off, the regulatory landscape can be a minefield. Drone laws vary by location and are continually evolving. We’re on top of that, ensuring we always operate within legal boundaries. Then, there’s the risk of equipment failure. Investing in high-quality drones minimizes this, but we’re also proactive with regular maintenance checks. And let’s not forget about privacy concerns. We operate with respect for personal boundaries, using drones in a way that protects the privacy of individuals.

Implementing risk management strategies

Effective risk management is our guardrail. We start with insurance – it’s non-negotiable. Adequate coverage not only protects our assets but also gives our clients peace of mind. Next up, we’ve established strict operating procedures to address potential safety concerns. This includes drone pilot training and certification, ensuring we have the best hands at the controls. Lastly, clear communication protocols are in place. This ensures that mishaps are reported and addressed without delay.

Planning for emergencies and disaster recovery

No matter how well we plan, emergencies can strike. That’s why an action plan is essential. It addresses potential scenarios, from drone malfunctions mid-flight to data loss from a crashed system. Our disaster recovery plans are not just on paper; we run drills to ensure our response is sharp and effective. Should an incident occur, we’re ready to manage it swiftly and professionally, with minimal disruption to our services.

We believe that a thorough understanding and management of these risks is the backbone of a successful drone business. Tackling these challenges head-on, we soar above competition, always ready to adapt and thrive in the fast-paced world of drone operations.

Taking Flight into the Future

So, you’re gearing up to launch sky-high with your very own drone venture? Exciting times ahead! Remember, the way we soar starts with solid groundwork. Ready to review how to start a drone business with a sharp eye on the skies?

Have we covered all the bases—from regulations to marketing strategies? It’s not just about the drones, it’s about our strategy. Think of the steps we’ve discussed as our flight plan. We’ve got our destination; now, it’s about the journey there.

Getting our propellers spinning might seem tough, but we’re not in this alone. There’s a buzzing community of drone enthusiasts and professionals out there. They’re all potential allies, clients, or mentors in our airborne quest. Shall we reach out and find our flock?

In this dynamic space, our business is only as good as our ability to adapt and innovate. Have we thought about the niche markets we can serve? Maybe it’s time to brainstorm services no one else has thought to offer yet.

We’ve tackled the essentials, like drone certifications and insurance. Have we started networking? Let’s connect with others on the same flight path. And let’s not forget to keep our tech skills sharp; they’re the wind beneath our drones’ wings.

The sky’s not just the limit; it’s our playground now. We’re part of the new wave of entrepreneurs taking the world to newer heights. So, here’s to clear skies and high flyers—our drone business awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions

What initial steps should we take to start a drone business.

First off, we’ll need to research the market and identify our niche. We should also ensure we understand FAA regulations for commercial drone use. It’s crucial to get certified as a remote pilot under Part 107, too.

Do we need any special licenses or certifications for operating a drone business?

Yes, indeed. We must pass the FAA Part 107 exam to become a certified drone pilot. This certification shows that we understand the regulations, operating requirements, and procedures for safely flying drones.

What kind of drone equipment should we invest in to get started?

We should invest in reliable drones that cater to the services we plan to offer. It’s smart to consider drones with high-quality cameras and stabilization features. Also, we should invest in extra batteries and maintenance tools.

How do we find clients for our drone services?

We can start by creating a strong online presence with a professional website and social media. Networking within our chosen industry and local businesses can also open doors. Participating in trade shows and drone expos helps too.

What types of drone services are in high demand?

Real estate photography, agricultural surveying, and industrial inspections are hot right now. We shouldn’t overlook wedding and event photography, either. Exploring emerging markets, such as 3D mapping, can prove lucrative.

Is drone insurance necessary, and what should it cover?

We definitely need drone insurance. It should cover liability in case our drone causes damage or injury. It’s smart to also include hull insurance, which covers damages to the drone itself.

How important is a business plan for a drone startup?

A business plan is essential. It guides us and keeps our drone-based business on track. It should outline our business model, financial projections, marketing strategies, and operational plans.

Can we operate a drone business as a side gig?

Sure, running a drone business part-time is doable. It can be a great way to build our client base and portfolio. We just need to manage our time efficiently and be ready to scale up when the demand increases.

Where can we find resources for continuous learning in the drone industry?

There are online forums, courses, and webinars hosted by industry experts. We also recommend attending drone technology conferences and workshops to stay up-to-date. Keeping an eye on FAA updates is also crucial.

What are the biggest challenges we might face in the drone business?

One of our biggest challenges may be keeping up with rapidly changing regulations. Plus, we’ll need to stay ahead of tech advances and maintain competitive pricing. Gaining client trust in a relatively new industry can take effort as well.

Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.

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How to Start a Drone Business (In 10 Steps)

By: Author Dan Bayne

Posted on July 19, 2023

With the global commercial drone market expected to grow from USD 10.98 billion in 2023 to USD 54.81 billion by 2030, drone pilots are steadily growing in demand globally.

This means that if you are thinking of turning your love of drones from just a hobby to a business venture, now is the perfect time to do so.

We will review the 10 major steps needed to turn your love of drones into a full-time, drone business. In addition, there will be bonus tips that can aid in bettering your drone business.

To help, we’ve identified and reviewed the best drone courses for beginners and professionals.

Why Start a Drone Business?

As mentioned, exponential growth is expected in the drone market, year over year. This means that there is a lot of money to be made in the industry.

Getting in now will ensure many drone companies a solid foothold in such a lucrative market.

Secondly, depending on what industry you are targeting, the startup costs are relatively low, as we’ll discuss, shortly.

Getting a drone pilot license , prosumer drone, marketing materials (ie: business cards, flyers, and website), and insurance costs a few thousand dollars of investment capital.

Additionally, drone pilots are currently in high demand, resulting in excellent salaries.

Depending on the company a drone pilot might initially work for, the requirements, the complexity of the job, and the drone pilots’ experience, in the US the middle ground for drone salaries is around USD 75,000 – USD 80,000.

Freelancers that own their own drone businesses, as the only employees, regularly make USD $100,000+, depending on their areas of expertise.

For larger drone businesses these figures increase dramatically.

1. Become a Commercial Drone Pilot

Regardless of your country of residence, the first and most important step to starting a drone business is to obtain your country’s equivalent of a commercial drone pilot’s license.

In the United States, this would be flying under the FAA’s (Federal Aviation Authority’s) Small UAS Rule (Part 107), with a remote pilot certification.

To acquire a remote pilot certification in the United States (commonly referred to as a drone license), you must  pass the FAA’s Part 107 test , otherwise known as the aeronautical knowledge exam: Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG).

The Process of Becoming a Drone Pilot, in the US (Step-by-Step)

With the information provided directly by the FAA, below is the entire process needed to become a commercial drone pilot, step by step.

Obtain an FAA Tracking Number (FTN)

This is done by creating an  Integrated Airman Certification and Rating Application  (IACRA) profile before registering for a knowledge test.

IACRA is a web-based certification/rating application that guides new drone pilots through the FAA’s airman application process.

IACRA is used to ensure applicants meet the FAA’s regulatory and policy requirements through the use of extensive data validation.

IACRA also uses electronic signatures to protect the information’s integrity, eliminates paper forms, and prints temporary certificates.

Schedule an appointment with a Testing Center

As mentioned prior, go to the  FAA-approved Knowledge Testing Center  site and schedule an appointment.

The test should be approximately $175.

To take the test, you’ll want to have available the following types of approved IDs:

• Driver permit or license issued by a U.S. state or territory
• U.S. Government identification card
• U.S. Military identification card
• Alien residency card

Most testing centers will provide the following:

• An FAA knowledge test supplement book
• Blank paper
• Transparent sheet
• Dry erase marker

Things to be aware of:

• Electronic devices are prohibited. These include smartphones and smartwatches. If you bring one, lockers are normally provided for you to store these items in.
• A standard calculator is allowed. Also, bring a ruler with you, as these may be required for some of the test questions.
• The test is 120 minutes long
• The minimum passing score is 70% which is a maximum of 18 questions wrong or a minimum of 42 questions right.

How I Passed Part 107 (And the Course That Helped Me Do It)

Pass the Aeronautical Knowledge Test: Unmanned Aircraft General – Small (UAG)

This can be done either by self-studying, as mentioned prior or with the help of an online Part 107 course.

Complete FAA Form 8710-13 for a remote pilot certificate 

After you have passed the aeronautical knowledge exam, go to the electronic FAA Integrated Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application system  (IACRA)  and follow these steps (provided by the FAA):

• Log in with the username and password you set up in the prior step
• Click on “ Start New Application ” and then a) Application Type “ Pilot “ b) Certifications “ Remote Pilot “ c) Other Path Information d) Start Application
• Follow the application prompts
• When prompted, enter the 17-digit Knowledge Test Exam ID. Be aware that it may take up to 48 hours from the test date for the knowledge test to appear in IACRA.
• Sign the application electronically and submit it for processing.

Print your temporary pilot certificate

A confirmation email will be sent when you have completed the TSA security background check.

The confirmation email will provide instructions for printing a copy of the temporary remote pilot certificate from IACRA.

Receive your permanent card

A permanent remote pilot certificate will be sent via postal mail once all other FAA-internal processing is complete.

Per the FAA, it takes about six to eight weeks to process and send an applicant’s permanent certificate. You can check the IACRA website to see the current processing and issue date.

» MORE: Become a Commercial Drone Pilot in 6 Easy Steps (Beginners Guide)

2. Define Your Target Market

After obtaining your country’s required certification(s), it is important to think about what industry or industries your drone business will focus on.

This is oftentimes dictated by what the local market deems as necessary.

To gather this information, you could initially look at the local drone companies in your area and see what industries they are targeting, as these will hone in on what the general area is supporting.

Conversely, it might be decided that you would like to dig into a niche market that is currently or relatively untouched in your local market.

Common industries supported by drones would be (and not limited to):

• Power & Utility
• Construction
• Real Estate
• Search and Rescue
• Local Marketing

3. Acquire The Needed Drone Equipment

Like with any business, there will be initial start-up costs to purchase the needed drone(s) and equipment for the industries you will be supporting.

Depending on the industry you will be focusing on, drones for the job can be between USD 1,000.00 all the way up to USD 18,000.00+, give or take.

When it comes to commercial work, the following drone companies are known to have drones made specifically for many requirements of local industries:

These drone manufacturers offer drones ranging from consumer drones, to prosumer drones, all the way to drones that are used in Hollywood-level cinematic settings.

Defining your target market before purchasing a drone will greatly increase the odds of acquiring the correct drone for the industry you will be supporting at the start of your business.

As a side note, in the United States, it is required that you register all drones that will be used in a commercial capacity , regardless of their size and weight.

If you are using a DJI Mini 3 Pro, an Autel Evo Nano, or any sub-250g drone for commercial purposes, they will need to be registered.

4. Learn Advanced Flight Maneuvers

Flying frontwards, backward, and side to side is a fundamental skill most if not all drone pilots have thoroughly mastered.

Depending on what industry you are planning to enter with your drone business, more advanced flight controls may be needed, such as:

• manual orbits
• rises combined with simultaneous partial orbits and gimbal rotations
• complex follow paths

In addition to these, it is advisable to completely understand drone controls when a drone is flying backward, or when the drone is facing you, as yaw and sideways flight controls are reversed.

By being familiar with the controls of a drone in all flight orientations, a drone operator is not only able to perform the complex maneuvers clients might need but is also able to quickly act to avoid situations that could result in the loss of the drone or damage to property.

» Bonus: Learn Your Drones Autonomous Features

With many of the drone manufacturers mentioned above, as well as a host of others, there are included autonomous features.

These features enable drones to fly differing types of patterns and paths, without drone pilot stick input.

For instance, current model DJI drones have what are referred to as Intelligent Flight Modes . Some of these flight modes that can aid in filming for commercial purposes are, in part:

• FocusTrack – Point of Interest, Spotlight, Active Track
• Hyperlapse – Free, Course Lock, Circle, Waypoint

» MORE: DJI Air 2S Intelligent Flight Modes (Step-By-Step Guide)

Aside from those modes, higher-tiered prosumer and commercial DJI drones have waypoint mission planning built right into the software, enabling those drones to follow pre-programmed points on a map, which paths can be saved for repeated use.

Likewise, Autel also has intelligent flight modes and a waypoints mission planner for its multiple line of consumer, prosumer, and commercial drones.

» MORE: DJI Mini 3 Pro Intelligent Flight Modes (Explained for Beginners)

5. Build a Portfolio

Building a portfolio is an essential step when starting out with a drone company. The reason is if no one can physically see the services you provide, and how well you provide them, fairly few potential clients will hire you.

We will take one industry, Real Estate, as an example.

If you have never done a Drone Real Estate shoot for a client and are looking to break into the industry, how would you get started?

Simply find a friend with a home that has a well-manicured or landscaped yard or even use your own home, if it likewise shows well.

Pick the best angles that show off the exterior of the home and surrounding neighborhood and edit the photos to be, at the very least, the same quality or better than the local offerings in your area. Use those shots in the portfolio.

Many first-time drone business owners also do well initially offering free photo sessions for potential clients, in whatever industry of interest, to build their portfolio.

Many businesses will gladly use your temporary “free” services, as it is a win-win situation for them.

After your initial shoot/project, repeat the process a time or two to build a portfolio. Once you have physical proof of your quality of work, you can begin building a paid client base.

Note: Offering free services to build your portfolio should only be done a few times, as you want to start profiting from your drone business as soon as possible.

When it comes to pricing, various avenues can be taken. These being:

• Hourly/Daily Rates
• Regular Customer retainer

Hourly/Daily

This type of pricing is common. As you improve your portfolio and add flight hours and proficiency, the amount you can charge will increase.

Also, as you continue to fly in a certain industry you will be able to raise your prices to stay competitive with other drone pilots/companies with the same level of experience.

For an idea of what your local market can sustain, research local drone companies and see what their pricing structures are.

Try not to undercut your fellow drone pilots’ pricing, as this can eventually lead to “a race to the bottom”, lessening the value of local drone services.

Pricing by project can be a bit involved, as various aspects have to be taken into account, such as:

• Project length
• What is being delivered
• How important the deliverables are to the client
• Travel time and expenses
• The time needed to process the data or edit the footage

Once all of this information has been determined and an hourly rate formulated from this info, then you will be able to price the project based on the expected hourly income multiplied by the number of hours the project will take.

Regular Customers/Clients

Having regular clients is a benefit to any business and is definitely so for drone work. With regular customers, you will have consistent work that can be depended on.

With Regular Customers, you will have the flexibility to work out recurring billing cycles that benefit both you and your client.

Having regular and dependable customers help build long-lasting, meaningful relationships that can be counted on for years to come.

7. Marketing

Even with the best portfolio and all of the experience in the world, it will be very hard in this day and age of technology to get clients if you do not have a defined marketing strategy.

We will go through some of the important aspects of marketing necessary to build your new business.

Business Name

Creating a business name should be paramount when putting together a marketing strategy, as your business name is your business identity.

When potential clients hear your business name, they should immediately be able to get a sense of what you do or what your drone business specialty is.

Tips for choosing a business name:

• Use easily recognizable and catchy names; names people will remember
• Avoid regional or location-specific names, as these tie you down to a particular area
• Try to incorporate your area(s) of expertise in the name
• When in doubt or if you run out of ideas, ask individuals you know for ideas, or look online for assistance (ie Social Media)

Next to business names, logos are equally important, as they help build your brand – visually. Like with business names, you’ll want a logo that is simplistic and will hold a potential customer’s attention.

It used to be a difficult and involved process to get a logo created many years ago.

Now, thanks to the internet and advanced graphic applications, you can have a memorable logo created by very talented graphic designers, as part of online freelance services.

A very popular site that houses freelance talent of all sorts, ranging from graphics designers to web developers to voice-over artists and everything in between, is Fiverr.

Of course, Fiverr isn’t the only game out there. There are many sites that house available graphics designers, available to create the right logo for your company.

Regardless of where you acquire a talented graphic design artist, it is advisable to select one that is highly rated and has plenty of examples of their work in their online portfolio.

Business Cards

Having spent time and money thinking up a catchy business name and having a memorable logo created, you’ll want to get both of these onto a business card as quickly as possible, along with your phone number and email address.

Also, as mentioned shortly, you’ll want to include your website on the card, so individuals can look at your portfolio.

Aside from the standard, paper-copy business cards, there are also NFC-enabled business cards.

These types of cards enable you to tap your card on someone’s phone and your contact information is then available on screen for the potential client to save.

Although the concept of business cards dates back hundreds of years, first starting out as “visiting cards”, they are a tried and true method for connecting potential customers to businesses all over the world.

With your new business name, logo, and examples from your portfolio, create flyers that highlight your area(s) of industry expertise and distribute these, in person, to the companies in the industries that would benefit from your services.

Although emailing local businesses can be done, many businesses frown on what appears to be spam and respond better to in-person meetings.

In-person meetings also allow you to network far deeper than a simple email.

Getting your face and brand out there personally can go a long way, as opposed to an email that might immediately get forwarded to the Spam folder.

Google Business Page

With a Business Profile on Google, you can manage how your drone business will show up on Google Maps and Search.

A Google Business Profile can help people find you and your services online quickly and easily.

Another benefit of having a verified business on Google is that it is twice as likely to be considered reputable.

With a verified business on Google Business Pages, you will be able to:

• Define your done business service area and region
• Post photos from your portfolio
• Receive and respond to customer reviews

Google business pages are also a means for free advertising.

These days, personally building a website, using an all-in-one solution, is quite simple and cost effect.

With a website, you will be able to allocate an entire area for your portfolio, so visitors can see examples of your work. In addition, you’ll be able to post your pricing structure.

While many new drone business owners might frown on putting prices on a website, many successful businesses compare putting your business service prices on your site to fine dining restaurants that post their meal prices online.

Individuals have budgets and seeing package prices online helps them plan accordingly or even get an idea of what to expect for their project, before even contacting you.

Websites are also great ways to display information about your company and any drone-related licenses and/or certificates your company has acquired.

Social Media

With so many people using Social Media, networks like Facebook and Instagram are excellent avenues of free advertising.

Using your portfolio images, or regular images from drone-related jobs, interest can be sparked in what services your business provides.

8. Register Your Business

Regardless of where your business will be located, it will be necessary (at least in the United States) to register your business.

Registering a business in a particular state is important because of how local laws and taxes can affect the business from state to state.

As we do not offer any type of legal advice here at Droneblog, it is important for you to research how to register your drone business for whichever State you are looking to do so in.

9. Tax (EIN)

Another very important step when setting up and starting a drone business, or any business for that matter, is putting a way to pay your taxes in place.

In the US, you will need to get an EIN (Employee Identification Number). There are various ways to file your EIN, Online, Mail, or Fax.

To learn more about this process, visit  the IRS website .

To ensure you pay your taxes correctly, it is highly advisable to hire an accountant or other well-versed business professional to aid you.

10. Drone Insurance

There is a saying that many drone pilots joking keep in the back of their minds, being: It’s not IF you crash your drone, but WHEN.

Drone accidents happen. That’s a reality for drone businesses. Drones crash, thus damaging property or worse. Because of this, drone insurance is extremely necessary when running a business.

When talking about drone insurance, there is liability insurance and hull insurance.

Liability Insurance

Liability Insurance is in place to protect you financially should you be sued if a drone-related mishap occurs.

Liability insurance tends to have high premiums but also has the highest amount of coverage.

This especially comes into play if, let’s say, your drone crashes into a few cars in a downtown area, cracking a few windshields, as opposed to if it hits and cracks a board in a fence on a farm in a rural area.

In this instance, you as a drone company, are covered by financial ramifications that occur.

Hull Insurance

When speaking of Hull Insurance, we are referring to insurance specifically for the drone. It protects the drone in the event of a crash or some other mishap while on location for a client’s job.

Hull Insurance is needed because Liability Insurance does not cover damage to your drone.

When doing jobs for clients, you’ll want to have a combination of Liability and Hull Insurance to fully cover your business.

Bonus: Keep up with the Drone Community

As with any business, there are marked trends with drones that may have a positive, or even negative impact, affecting the way we use them in our industry of choice.

Whether being a part of a drone community like ours at DronePilots , or others, being an active member in the drone community ensures you and your company will stay abreast of the trends that affect all of us, and aid in adjusting your business approach to better serve your clients.

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Drone Business Plan Template

Apr.25, 2018

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Table of Content

Drone business plan for starting your own company

Do you want to start a drone photography business? Well, it is an amazing business that offers several opportunities. In these days, whenever there is a need to capture unique and high-quality aerial shoots the first thing that comes in mind is drone.

Whether it’s an agricultural sector or an industrial unit, people require drones to study different details and to capture descriptive views which can be shown to others. Moreover, drones are also needed in events, ceremonies and real estate photography.

So, if you are thinking about starting a drone business you have to first formulate a drone business plan. Your drone business plan should envisage all the crucial details like your future financial strategy, your marketing strategy and a critical examination of your target market. In your uav business plan, it’s better to also include solutions to possible problems that you can encounter during your journey.

Here we are providing you a sample business plan for a drone business startup named ‘Drone Techs’ so that you can have an idea of, how a comprehensive and effective drone business plan looks like.

Executive Summary

2.1 the business.

Drone Techs will be a licensed drone aerial photography business owned by Denzel Smith. Drone Techs is aimed to provide fully-insured drones and the services of FAA authorized drone operators throughout Cleveland, United States.

2.2 Management of the Drone Business

Smith is an MBA with extreme passion for photography. To run his aerial drone business, he’ll hire a team of technicians, photographers, drone pilots, sales executives, graphics editors, drivers, and general workers, and he’ll be managing the business himself.

2.3 Customers

Knowing your customers before making your drone plan of business companies can assist you in estimating the required things and personnel as well in devising your drone marketing strategy.

Drone Techs found that its target customers will be the residents of Cleveland and people belonging to the agriculture, industrial and real estate sector.

2.4 The Business Metrics and Targets

Before you start drone business you must define targets for you. To assess its performance time-to-time Drone Techs will be evaluating its sales revenue, sales growth, and net profit margin. Company’s major targets are:

• To earn a net profit margin of $15k per month by the end of the first year and to increase it by 125 percent by the end of the second year
• To recover the startup costs by the end of the second year

Company Summary

3.1 company owner.

Drone Techs will be solely owned by Denzel Smith who is an MBA as well as an expert photographer. Smith has always been passionate about aerial photography. For the past four years, he has been capturing different aerial views using his drone as a hobbyist.

3.2 Why the Business is being started

To make the best use of his photography and management skills, Smith has decided to start a drone business. His decision can also be attributed to the project he did last year when he worked with a real estate company on a small project as a surveyor and professional photographer. His feedback was exceptionally great, so looking at the opportunities in this uav business plan, Smith decided to go for a proper start.

3.3 How the Business will be started

Smith already had two professional drones, but now as he aims to properly step in this uav business plan, he has decided to buy a few more, including the special drone with sensors and sprayers, used in agricultural fields.

An office building in Cleveland will be taken on rent after which Smith will purchase the required equipment and will hire a drone pilot, a photographer, technicians, sales executives, and graphics editors.

The detailed information about the start-up is given below:

Services for Customers

To avail the drone business opportunities while generating considerable profits, you are required to clearly define your business strategy services .

You have to decide whether or not you will be providing services other than just drone photography. Whatever they are, you must define them in your because your equipment and future strategy will be entirely dependent upon them.

Drone Techs will be offering the following services to their customers:

• Aerial Photography & Video Making: Our professional photographers will take perfect and high-quality shoots of your events using 4k camera and digital imaging techniques.
• Agricultural Inspection: Our special agriculture drone will help farmers in identifying irrigation problems, pest or fungal invasion, and soil variability issues without surveying large fields.
• Commercial, Industrial & Real Estate Inspection: Our trained workers will capture different aerial views for mapping and surveying industrial units and the real estate sector.
• Drone Selling, Renting & Repairing Services: Our experienced technicians will repair any issue regarding drones. Moreover, Drone Techs will also be selling drones as well as giving them on rent.

Marketing Analysis of Drone Business

Business plan for investors, 5.1 market trends.

After Federal Aviation Administration has permitted the commercial use of drones, drone business is seeing growth besides just photography, that is, in mining, surveying, and in industrial, agricultural and real estate sectors. The business is expected to grow more by the coming years.

5.2 Marketing Segmentation

No matter how many drone business ideas you do have, you can’t succeed if you fail to make or execute an effective drone marketing plan. Developing an effective plan for drone real estate marketing is only possible if you do thorough research on who will be your customers.

Drone Techs did critical research on the market and identified the following target groups:

• Individual Consumers , who’ll use drone photography services in ceremonies and events and are expected to avail renting and repairing services too.
• Real Estate Agents will use aerial photography and video making services for mapping and monitoring their estate.
• Farmers in the Agricultural Sector will use our special agriculture drones with sensors to survey their farms, to monitor crop yield, and to remain informed about any fungal and infectious infestation.
• Industries will use our services for infrastructure inspection.

5.3 Business Target

Our main business targets are as follows:

• To earn a net profit margin of $15k per month by the end of the first year
• To increase net profit margin by 125 percent by the end of the second year

5.4 Product Pricing

Our prices will be a bit high as we’ll have to manage costly equipment and highly trained staff to provide our services.

Very Efficient Service

Very Efficient Service! Knowledgeable team! Helped me to get the positive result from the concerned entity Very happy with the outcome; Alex and his team are highly efficient,committed professionals with a diverse bank of knowledge.

After gathering data about how to start drone business and deciding your services, the next step is to think about drone business ideas that can help you in getting ahead of your competitors.

6.1 Competitive Analysis

Our biggest competitive advantage lies in our wide-ranged services. Secondly, just we in the whole town are offering graphic editing and digital imagery services on photos and films taken with drones. And, only we in our town will be giving the drones on rent. Lastly, Smith has already done a project with great feedback which will be a plus point.

6.2 Sales Strategy

To avail maximum drone business opportunities it is required to bring in more customers to your site. In doing so, it is essential to develop a really effective advertisement strategy in your drone business plan, one that can influence others to avail your services.

Drone Techs will use the following techniques to advertise itself:

• Ensuring strong web-presence
• Posting aerial images and films on social media platforms and in magazines
• Putting high quality and digitally edited posters in streets
• Giving 5% discount to industrial, agricultural and real estate sector for the first two months

6.3 Sales Monthly

6.4 Sales Yearly

6.5 Sales Forecast

Our forecasted sales are summarized in the following column charts:

The detailed information about the sales forecast is given in the following table:

Personnel plan

If you have made up your mind to start drone photography or drone rental business, make sure that you are clear about the persons you’ll have to hire. As a business can’t run successfully without devoted and talented employees, it is essential to develop a personnel plan even before thinking about how to start a commercial drone business.

7.1 Company Staff

Drone Techs will hire the following persons:

• 1 Accountant for maintaining financial records
• 3 Operators for operating the drones
• 2 Professional Photographers for filming events
• 2 Graphics Editors for processing photographs and videos
• 2 Technicians for repairing & regulating drones
• 2 General Workers for keeping a record of drones given on rent
• 2 Sales Executives for executing sales strategy
• 1 Web Developer for managing company’s websites and social sites
• 2 Assistants/Drivers for transportation and everyday tasks

7.2 Average Salary of Employees

Financial plan.

Before you start any business it is essential to have a clear idea about how much money you can spend on its startup. You must know your budget and finances before you even think about how to start a drone company. As this business requires a huge investment to buy drones thus it’s necessary for anyone who steps in this business to have a detailed and flawless financial plan. One which covers all the details like investment costs, advertisement costs, salaries of employees, financial targets and ways to deal with loss, if you fail to generate desired profit drone business plan .

Moreover, if you want to start a business with drones you must examine various drone business ideas before making your financial plan. It will help you in deciding the sort of drones that you can buy while remaining in your budget to provide your decided services.

For the businesses which require large investments group business and expenditures like this, it’s better to get a financial plan written by a person of this domain. You can also develop it by yourself if you have the skill to play with stats.

Being a master’s in business administration, Smith knew the importance of an effective financial plan. A sample of financial plan which he developed after great thinking and analyzing different stats is given here for anyone who wants to benefit.

8.1 Important Assumptions

8.2 brake-even analysis.

8.3 Projected Profit and Loss

8.3.1 profit monthly.

8.3.2 Profit Yearly

8.3.3 Gross Margin Monthly

8.3.4 Gross Margin Yearly

8.4 Projected Cash Flow

8.5 Projected Balance Sheet

8.6 business ratios.

So, what are you waiting for if you have made up your mind to start a drone business? An effective and competent business plan, most probably! Sign up here and get a uav business plan written by our professionals just according to your market, investments, and plans. No need to search for authentic business writers and paying them a heavy amount. What you are required to do is to just fill out this form to tell us about some major details because we can take care of the rest.

OGS capital staff also specialize in writing business plans such as picture-perfect photography company , record label business plan , video production business plan , film business plan , greeting card business plan and etc.

Download Drone Business Plan Sample in pdf

3 thoughts on “ Drone Business Plan Template ”

Need assistance in growing my renewable energy and drone business

Thank you for your comment. If you need assistance in writing your business plan please contact us by email: [email protected] or call us at USA +1-619-727-5304, UK +44-203-318-1069, Canada +1-613-699-7822, Australia +61-385-956-735.

Thank you for the information and direction. Not sure why, but the sample drone template pulled up as a hospital template.

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Best Drone Business Ideas for 2022

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If you’re looking to start a business, then working with drones might be a venture to consider. After all, drone sales are expected to surpass $12 million in 2021. These unmanned aerial vehicles are attracting more consumers with their striking features, including high-quality cameras that capture pictures and video, built-in GPS, auto-pilot functions, flight speeds exceeding 50 miles per hour, Bluetooth capability, and more.

Demand for drones is increasing, making them more accessible to consumers. You can belong to a small but growing group of people with the knowledge to operate an innovative piece of technology. If you’re willing to do some research and create a plan, you can monetize your drone expertise.

Here are some drone business ideas to inspire your next business opportunity.

1. Photography

Before drones, you’d need to rent a helicopter to capture a bird’s eye view of the landscape with your camera. With drones, you can skip the expensive helicopter ride and snap a detailed picture—all with your feet planted safely on the ground.

But you don’t need to limit your photo subjects to lush landscapes. With drone-enabled photography, you can also capture photos of:

Sporting events

Special events

Footage for film and video

Real estate

2. Videography

Don’t limit your drone to capturing single moments. You can also create awe-inspiring videos from your eye in the sky. If you create videos for businesses, you can use your drone to capture stunning visuals that will leave their viewers breathless.

How much do you need?

with Fundera by NerdWallet

We’ll start with a brief questionnaire to better understand the unique needs of your business.

Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

3. Wedding videography and photography

Weddings deserve their own section because couples will shell out the money for amazing shots. On wedding photography alone, couples spend $2,000 on average. After all, this is a moment in their lives they want to preserve forever.

If you’re a wedding photographer, consider adding a drone to your toolkit. Drones lend a unique selling point to your business that differentiates you from your competition. With drones, you can snap amazing photos and videos from exciting angles that will impress your clients.

4. Building inspections

Inspecting a building poses several safety hazards, especially if you’re working with a 2,000-foot-tall skyscraper. If you own a building inspection business, this naturally puts you and your employees at risk of injury.

Reduce that risk by using drones to help with your inspection. You can train your employees to operate drones and how to detect issues through their high-quality cameras This can be helpful when you need to access large or difficult-to-access structures, like:

Power lines

Solar panels

5. Search and rescue

Imagine somebody getting lost in a forest during the evening. Sending a search party with only flashlights to scout the area can be time-consuming. This method also exposes the search parties to certain risks while traversing in the dark.

A drone can be a more efficient solution for searching and rescuing lost parties. Some drone models have infrared and night-vision cameras, making it easier to track the lost party using their heat emissions.

You can even program a drone to deliver emergency supplies and a message to sit tight because help is on the way.

6. Security surveillance

Home security solutions sales generated $4.69 billion in 2017. This figure indicates that there is a market that you can tap into: People who want to secure their homes and their businesses. With the rise of smart home technology, you might notice more homes equipped with cameras outside their homes or even built into their doorbells.

Drones add another layer of security to your home or business. Drones with night-vision cameras create a live feed you can view either during the day or evening. You can also set drones to hover closer to the ground, enabling it to capture a mugshot during an intrusion or burglary.

7. Agricultural surveys

Drones can be an exciting way to merge technology with agriculture. Save time that would be spent wading through the fields and use drones to survey crops from the sky. You can equip your drones with sensors that allow you to study soil hydration, its composition, and any invasions from pests and fungi. Moreover, drones make it possible to survey agriculture on a monthly or even daily basis.

8. Underwater inspections

Drones aren’t limited to just an eye in the sky. Drones also enable vision in the depths of the oceans. With submersible drones, you can dive 100 meters deep and see your aquatic surroundings with lighting and high-resolution images.

Companies like So Far Ocean, sell submersible drones for a spectrum of uses, both commercial and recreational.

This technology allows you to:

Monitor aquatic ecosystems

Collect data in remote ocean locations

Inspect underwater infrastructure, like tanks and pipes

Scout potential sites for recreational divers

Measure wave and wind conditions

Scout ahead for rich fishing sites

9. Marine photography

Many consumers link drones with gorgeous landscape photography. But the last business idea showed how drones can both fly in the sky and dive into the ocean. Imagine capturing the beauty of an aquatic landscape with your drone. Drone photography can take amazing photos and videos of vibrant coral reefs or mysterious seaweed forests.

If you’re a photographer looking for a new niche to tap into, then marine photography with drones might be your next calling.

10. Mapping and surveying

Instead of mapping an area on foot, land surveyors can use drones to collect data from the air. Drones equipped with GPS can produce three-dimensional cartographic visuals. This can cut the time and costs of creating maps and land surveys. If this is a business idea that sounds interesting, you can use this technology to branch out into:

Construction

Urban planning

Archaeology

Underwater mapping

11. Create an online drone course

You can find an online course for nearly anything. If you want to learn how to write a business plan or even how to grow succulents, you’ll definitely find an online course to teach you.

With the pool of drone owners growing, you’ll also find larger groups of drone beginners. You can create an online course that teaches those beginners how to operate their drones. Drone education is a great way to monetize your own drone expertise.

This is a great business idea where you can make money without a huge time investment. After you build the course, you set up automatic systems that convert leads, collect payment, and direct customers through your course.

12. Drone repairs

Despite their many capabilities, drones are still fragile tools prone to damage or failure. Despite the prices decreasing, drones are still expensive. Most consumers would rather repair an existing drone than shell out the money and buy a new one off the shelf.

Whether broken from a collision or malfunctioning from weather exposure, drone owners need some way to repair it. Opening a drone repair shop can fulfill this market need. This business idea can be attractive to people who love building things and understanding how they work.

13. Custom activations for events

Companies like Drone Cast are using their drones to create highlight moments for their clients’ events. Imagine attending a party and seeing a drone fly in with bags of party favors. Or maybe you’re hosting a party and you schedule for a drone to deliver bottles of wine.

If you’re an event planner or own a venue, you can use drone delivers as a unique selling point to attract new customers.

14. Drone banner advertising

If drones can carry bottles and party favors, why not use them to create ad space?

On the ground, your vision is flooded with highway billboards and store signs. But if you look up, you’ll see mostly sky and clouds. You can use a drone to carry a banner for advertising materials with the sky as a backdrop.

15. Emergency situations

During emergencies, like wildfires or earthquakes, drones can be operated by our first responders to mitigate the risk they’re exposed to. Sending a drone in advance to an emergency site can help our policemen and firemen assess the situation before rushing in to respond.

For reporters, it can often be too hazardous to report directly on-site. While the drone collects live footage to fill in the visuals, reporters can safely report the facts from a distance. Overall, drones fulfill several roles that would otherwise risk human lives.

16. Drone leasing business

If you have the capital or intend to apply for a business loan, you can purchase several drones to rent out. Many people don’t want to burden themselves with the financial investment of buying, maintaining, and repairing a drone. Some only want to use drones for a certain project or event and then return it. You might find that simply owning and leasing drones can be a lucrative business opportunity.

Drone tips for commercial use

Of course, using drones for business purposes—and not just for fun—means you need to take some extra steps to insure your investment. Here are some considerations to keep in mind.

Consider drone insurance

Drones are becoming more affordable as demand increases, but the average cost of a drone is roughly $280. This equipment can still be a financial investment for some. It might be worth purchasing insurance. Drones are fragile tools if not cared for responsibly and you want to ensure that you’re covered when your drone fails or breaks.

Moreover, drones expose you to some liability issues. If your drone runs into a piece of property or inflicts accidental injury on a person, you open yourself to potential lawsuits. Make sure that you’re protected during these unfortunate situations.

Drone permits

If you’re operating a drone commercially, you must register for the certain permits before opening your business. Make sure that you do your research and that you’re complying with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

For example, if you’re operating a drone less than 55 pounds, you must become an FAA-certified drone pilot and register your drone with the FAA.

Start Your Dream Business

The bottom line

The growing demand for drones marks an exciting milestone in this age of technology. Drones are innovating familiar industries, like photography, inspections, and security. As technology evolves and industries shift, so too must businesses. Learning how to operate drones and how to monetize that skill is a new yet exciting territory to explore.

But it may be beneficial to start your drone business sooner rather than later. With lower prices, drones are more accessible but the number of drone owners hasn’t exploded yet. Take advantage of this emerging market by establishing yourself early.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

On a similar note...

How to Run A Drone Business: A Comprehensive Guide

As the drone industry takes flight, so does the opportunity to establish a profitable drone business.

Whether you’re a seasoned commercial drone pilot or an aspiring entrepreneur, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to navigate the skies of success.

From obtaining the necessary certifications to mastering drone operations and technology, we’ll cover every aspect of launching and managing a thriving drone business.

Making money with a drone isn’t exactly a get-rich-quick scheme. But, there are ways in which just about anyone can start earning money with their drone, fast.

By the way, if you’re looking to hit the skies and don’t have a drone, some really good starter drones are the DJI Mini 4 Pro and DJI Mini 3 Pro . Both these drones shoot 4K video and are very affordable. 

This article goes into more detail about how drone entrepreneurs are making it happen with the DJI Mini 3 Pro. 

Article Highlights:

• Launching a successful drone business requires identifying a niche, conducting market research, and creating a solid business plan.
• Understanding various drone types and their capabilities is essential for tailored services and staying ahead in technology.
• Effective drone business management involves adhering to legal requirements, maintaining safety protocols, and engaging in strategic networking.

The drone industry is rapidly expanding, offering an array of opportunities for entrepreneurs. Starting a drone business can be a lucrative and exciting venture, whether it’s real estate photography, industrial inspections, or other innovative services.

However, any successful business venture requires careful planning and strategic decision-making.

Key Steps to Launch Your Drone Business Venture

Here are the foundational steps to launching a drone business, ensuring you’re well-equipped to enter this dynamic field.

1) Identify Your Niche

Every successful drone business starts with identifying a niche. Assess the market and determine which services you can offer effectively.

This could range from real estate photography , which requires a keen eye for detail and aesthetics, to conducting industrial inspections , which demands a more technical skillset.

Your choice should align with both market demand and your personal or team expertise.

2) Market Research

Understanding your competition and potential clientele is crucial. Conduct comprehensive research to gather insights into what your competitors offer, what clients expect, and how you can position your services uniquely.

3) Create a Business Plan

A well-structured business plan is your roadmap to success. This should detail your business objectives, strategies for reaching your target market, financial projections, and a clear plan for growth. It’s not just a document for securing funding but a guide that keeps your business on track.

4) Secure Funding

Starting a drone business often requires a significant initial investment, especially in high-quality drones and technology.

Explore various funding options like small business loans, seeking investors, or using personal savings. The key is to have a solid financial plan that supports your business goals and growth.

Launching a drone business can be a complex but rewarding endeavor. By identifying your niche, conducting thorough market research, crafting a detailed business plan, and securing the necessary funding, you set a strong foundation for your business.

Understanding Drone Technology: Overview of the Latest in Commercial Drones and Their Capabilities

Understanding the various types of drones for commercial use and their capabilities is crucial for anyone looking to start or run a successful drone business.

From the versatility of multi-rotor drones to the endurance of fixed-wing models, each type offers unique advantages for different applications.

This section delves into the types of drones available, their technical capabilities, and the importance of staying updated with the latest advancements in drone technology.

Types of Drones

There are several different types of drones you’ll come across when determining what to invest in: 

• Multi-Rotor Drones : Ideal for aerial photography and videography, including real estate and event coverage, due to their stability and maneuverability.
• Fixed-Wing Drones : Preferred for long-duration tasks like agricultural surveys or large-scale land mapping because of their extended flight times and larger coverage areas.
• Single Rotor Helicopters : Known for their longer flight times than multi-rotors, they are often used in tasks requiring heavy lifting.
• Hybrid VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) : Combines the advantages of fixed-wing and rotor-based drones, useful for varied applications, including delivery services and long-range inspections.

Technical Capabilities

Most of these drones have differences in their technical capabilities, such as: 

• Flight Duration : Varies significantly between models, impacting how long a drone can operate on a single charge or fuel load.
• Payload Capacity : Determines a drone’s weight, which is crucial for tasks like aerial photography with high-end cameras or transporting goods.
• Camera Quality : A critical feature for tasks requiring high-resolution images and videos, like real estate photography and surveillance.
• Autonomous Functions : Includes features like GPS waypoint navigation, object tracking, and automated flight paths, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.

Staying Updated

Rapid drone technology advancement means staying informed about the latest developments is essential.

Regularly attending industry conferences, participating in online forums, and following leading drone manufacturers can help in keep pace with new features and capabilities that can enhance your service offerings.

Business Registration and Legal Requirements: Drone Liability Insurance, Hull Insurance, and Other Legal Necessities

Starting a drone business isn’t just about flying drones. It’s also important to understand and take care of the legal side of things.

This means choosing the right type of business, getting the right licenses, and making sure you have the necessary drone insurance .

This section will guide you through these steps, helping you make sure your drone business ideas follows the rules and is protected from risks.

Quick note: check out these top 5 drone business ideas for beginners 🙂

Registering Your Business

• Choosing a Business Structure : Look into options like LLC or sole proprietorship . Each choice affects your taxes and legal responsibilities differently.
• Registration Process : We’ll go through the steps to officially set up your company, including the papers you must fill out.

Drone Certifications and Licenses

• FAA Regulations : Learn about the rules set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for flying Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for business.
• Certification Process : Find out how to get a Remote Pilot Certificate or how to be a licensed commercial drone pilot; you need to fly drones commercially.
• Local Licensing : Sometimes, you might need extra licenses based on where you live or work.

Insurance Requirements

• Drone Liability Insurance : This drone insurance is important because it covers damage or harm your drone might cause during its flights.
• Hull Insurance : This covers damage to your drone itself.
• Evaluating Insurance Needs : We’ll help you figure out how much insurance you need, depending on what your business does.

Complying with Local Laws

• Local Regulations : Ensure you know and follow any special drone rules in your area.
• Specific Considerations for Services : There are extra-legal things to consider when doing certain jobs, like inspecting buildings or working with nearby businesses.

Getting the legal stuff right is as important as choosing the best drones for your business. Proper registration, certifications, and insurance keep you on the right side of the law and make your business look trustworthy.

By taking care of both the legal and technical sides, you’re setting up your drone business ideas for success.

Managing a Drone Company

Commercial drone service provider: best practices for managing day-to-day operations.

Running a commercial drone operation involves a blend of technical skills, safety awareness, and effective communication.

By establishing best practices for day-to-day operations, drone businesses can ensure efficiency, safety, and client satisfaction. Here are some key areas to focus on:

Efficient Workflow

• Flight Planning : Develop a systematic approach for planning drone missions, including route mapping, weather checks, and airspace regulations compliance.
• Regular Maintenance : Set up a routine for regular drone maintenance checks to ensure equipment is always in top working condition .
• Record Keeping : Keep accurate logs of all drone operations, including flight times, maintenance activities, and any incidents, for regulatory compliance and internal tracking.
• Client Communication : Create a protocol for regular updates and reports to clients, keeping them informed about project progress and any issues.

Safety Protocols

• Safety Guidelines : Develop and strictly enforce safety guidelines based on industry best practices and FAA regulations.
• Emergency Procedures : Have clear procedures in place for handling emergencies or unexpected situations during drone flights.
• Training and Updates : Regularly train your team on safety protocols and update these guidelines as necessary to adapt to new regulations or technology.
• Equipment Checks : Implement pre-flight and post-flight checks to ensure all equipment is functioning correctly and safely.

Client Relations

• Understanding Client Needs : Engage with clients to thoroughly understand their needs and expectations from each drone operation (and always be looking for ways to acquire more clients for your drone business ).
• Effective Communication : Maintain open and clear communication channels with clients, providing regular updates and being responsive to inquiries and feedback.
• Quality Assurance : Ensure that the services provided meet the agreed-upon quality and standards and are delivered within the specified timeframe.
• Feedback Mechanism : Implement a system for gathering and addressing client feedback, using it to improve service quality and client satisfaction.

By focusing on these best practices, a commercial drone operation can run more smoothly and build a reputation for reliability, safety, and customer-oriented service, which are key to long-term success in the industry.

Networking and Collaboration: Creating Partnerships with Other Businesses and Drone Service Providers

Successful growth in the drone business often hinges on the ability to network and forge strategic collaborations.

Building a strong network not only opens up new avenues for business but also enriches your service offerings.

Here’s how you can effectively network and collaborate in the drone industry:

Industry Events

• Attending Conferences and Expos : Make the most of drone industry events, conferences, and expos. These are excellent platforms for meeting peers, experts, and potential business partners.
• Participation and Engagement : Don’t just attend; participate actively. Consider giving presentations, joining panels, or hosting a booth to showcase your services.
• Follow-Up : Follow up with the contacts you’ve made after the event. A quick email or call can turn a casual meeting into a valuable business relationship.

Strategic Partnerships

• Identify Complementary Businesses : Look for businesses that complement your drone services, such as real estate firms needing aerial photography or event organizers looking for unique coverage.
• Propose Mutual Benefits : When reaching out for partnerships, clearly outline how a collaboration could be mutually beneficial. For instance, your drone services could add value to a real estate agency’s listings.
• Formalize Agreements : Once a partnership is agreed upon, formalize it with clear terms and expectations to avoid misunderstandings later.

Community Engagement

• Local Business Networks : Join local business associations or chambers of commerce. These can be great for meeting local business owners who might benefit from your drone services.
• Community Events : Participate in community events, fairs, or trade shows. These are opportunities to showcase your services and engage with potential local clients.
• Educational Workshops : Offering workshops or presentations about drones and their applications can position you as a knowledgeable leader in the field and build community trust.

Your drone business can expand its client base and gain insights into new market trends and business opportunities through effective networking and strategic collaborations.

Remember, the relationships you build today could be the foundation for tomorrow’s success.

Expanding Services: How to Grow and Diversify Your Drone Business Offerings

Expanding and diversifying your service offerings is key to staying competitive and unlocking new revenue streams. Here are strategies to help you grow and broaden your drone business capabilities:

Market Research

• Stay Informed on Industry Trends : Keep a close eye on emerging trends in the drone industry. This could include advancements in drone technology or new uses for drones in various sectors.
• Identify Emerging Needs : Look for emerging needs in the market. For instance, thermal imaging for emergency services or 3D mapping for construction could be growing in demand.
• Client Feedback : Listen to your current clients for insights on potential new services. They might express needs that you haven’t yet considered.

Investing in Technology

• Upgrade Your Fleet : Regularly assess and upgrade your drone fleet with the latest models that offer enhanced capabilities, such as longer flight times or better cameras.
• Adopt New Technologies : Stay ahead of the curve by adopting new technologies like AI-driven data analysis or advanced imaging techniques.
• Cost-Benefit Analysis : Before investing, conduct a thorough cost-benefit analysis to ensure the new technology aligns with your business goals and market demand.

Training and Development

• Skills Enhancement : Continually train your team in the latest drone operating techniques and technologies. This improves service quality and keeps your team motivated and engaged.
• Certifications and Workshops : Encourage your team to attend workshops and obtain certifications in specialized areas like aerial surveying, thermography, or cinematography.
• Cross-Training : Cross-train your drone pilot and staff in different aspects of drone operations. This approach ensures flexibility and a broader range of services offered to clients.

By consistently researching market trends, investing in the latest technology, and focusing on team training and development, your drone business can grow and establish itself as a versatile and forward-thinking player in the industry.

This proactive approach to business expansion positions you to capitalize on new opportunities and meet the evolving needs of your clients.

Challenges in the Drone Industry

As the drone industry continues to expand and evolve , it faces several challenges that need to be addressed to ensure its continued success. Here are three of the most significant challenges:

Regulatory Compliance

The rapid growth of the drone industry has outpaced the development of comprehensive regulations, leading to a patchwork of rules and restrictions that vary from country to country and even from state to state within the United States.

This regulatory uncertainty makes it difficult for drone businesses to operate with certainty and can also lead to confusion and frustration among commercial drone pilots.

Adapting to Technological Changes

The drone industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies being developed all the time. This technological innovation is both a blessing and a curse for drone businesses.

On the one hand, it provides new opportunities for innovation and growth for drone operators.

It can be difficult to keep up with the latest advancements, and businesses that fail to do so may find drone operators at a competitive disadvantage.

Risk Management

Drone operations can pose a number of risks, including the potential for collisions with other aircraft, property damage, and personal injury.

It is essential for businesses to have effective risk management plans in place to mitigate these risks. This includes developing and implementing safety procedures, conducting thorough risk assessments, and obtaining appropriate liability insurance coverage.

In addition to these three challenges, drone operators face several other challenges, such as public perception, privacy concerns, and competition from established businesses.

However, by understanding and addressing these challenges, drone operators can position themselves for success in this exciting and growing industry.

Final Thoughts

The path to establishing a profitable drone business is both exciting and challenging. It requires a strategic blend of market research, an understanding of technology, legal compliance, and efficient management practices.

By identifying a niche, crafting a detailed business plan, and staying updated with the latest technological advancements, entrepreneurs can set a solid foundation for their business.

Additionally, understanding and adhering to legal requirements, including business registration, certifications, and insurance, is crucial.

The guide emphasizes the importance of efficient day-to-day operations, safety protocols, and client relations, which are pivotal for a thriving enterprise.

Networking and forming collaborations with complementary businesses and community engagement are also vital for growth and expansion.

Furthermore, diversifying services, continuous market research, and investing in technology and team development are key strategies for staying competitive.

Despite facing challenges like regulatory compliance, adapting to technological changes, and risk management, a drone business with the right approach and resilience can soar high and capture the vast opportunities this dynamic industry presents.

How profitable is a drone business?

The profitability of a drone business can vary significantly depending on the factors mentioned above.

However, a drone business can achieve substantial profitability with careful planning, effective marketing, and a focus on high-quality services.

How much can you make with a drone company?

The earning potential for drone companies is quite promising. Experienced commercial drone pilots can earn an $60k per year if not more, depending on where you’re located. 

Specialized services, such as aerial cinematography or complex inspections, can command even higher rates.

How do I get clients for my drone business?

Acquiring clients for your drone business requires a multifaceted approach:

• Networking: Actively participate in industry events, conferences, and online forums to connect with potential clients and establish relationships.
• Online marketing: Utilize search engine optimization (SEO), social media marketing , and targeted advertising to reach your target audience.
• Referral programs: Encourage existing clients to refer their connections or colleagues by offering incentives for successful referrals.
• Partnerships: Collaborate with complementary businesses, such as real estate agencies, construction companies, or agricultural firms, to cross-promote services.
• Community involvement: Engage with local businesses, organizations, and community events to showcase your drone expertise and build brand recognition.

Is it legal to make money with a drone?

Yes, making money with a drone is legal, but you must adhere to all applicable FAA regulations. This includes obtaining a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate , following airspace rules, and maintaining proper insurance coverage.

About The Author

Rodney Watkins

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Business model canvas for a drone services company (examples).

Get a watermark-free, fully customizable business model canvas in our business plan for a drone services company

In the dynamic and rapidly evolving world of drone technology, having a clear and adaptable strategy is crucial for soaring above the competition.

Welcome to your detailed roadmap for navigating the Business Model Canvas framework, customized for drone services entrepreneurs.

This article deconstructs the model into manageable pieces, guiding you through the intricacies of pinpointing your unique value proposition, understanding your target customer segments, identifying key operations, and much more.

Should you be in search of a ready-to-use Business Model Canvas that's fully customizable, don't hesitate to explore our drone services business plan template .

What is a Business Model Canvas? Should you make one for your drone services company?

A Business Model Canvas is a strategic tool designed to help you map out the key components of your business, providing a clear and concise overview of how your company will operate and generate revenue.

Imagine it as a visual framework that captures your drone services company's value proposition, infrastructure, customers, and financial health.

In the context of a drone services company, the canvas serves as a roadmap that illustrates how your business will provide innovative solutions, attract clients, and maintain a competitive edge.

Why do people create a Business Model Canvas? For entrepreneurs in the drone industry, it's about gaining clarity on your business's core aspects. It helps you pinpoint the unique services you offer, such as aerial photography, mapping, or inspections, and how these services fulfill the needs of your target market. It also helps you to define your marketing strategies, operational logistics, and cost structures.

The benefits are substantial.

It encourages strategic planning and helps you to concentrate on the essentials. It can uncover unforeseen challenges or reveal new opportunities, enabling you to refine your approach before fully committing to your business plan.

For example, you might discover that your initial focus on real estate photography needs to expand to include agricultural surveying to tap into a growing market demand. This insight could steer your business towards more profitable ventures.

Should you create one if you're launching a new drone services venture? Definitely.

It's an essential part of the planning process that can shape your strategies and articulate your business concept to potential investors or partners. A well-thought-out Business Model Canvas, similar to what you would find in our tailored business plan template for drone services , can transform a risky idea into a venture with a clear strategic direction.

Is it useful for you? Without a doubt, especially if you aim to establish a strategic plan for your drone services company. It compels you to methodically work through your business model and assess the viability of your company's offerings.

Moreover, it's a dynamic document that can evolve as your business grows or as the market landscape shifts.

How to create a Business Model Canvas for your drone services company?

Developing a Business Model Canvas for your drone services company should be straightforward.

You can simply modify the one we have already crafted and filled in our business plan template tailored for a drone services company .

Need more specifics? Let's dissect each component of the canvas, and we'll assist you in populating it with concepts and inspiration, using a clear and concise method.

Value Proposition

Let's start with the Value Proposition.

This is the core of your drone services company. What sets your services apart? Is it the cutting-edge technology, the range of services, or perhaps the precision and quality of the data you provide?

Consider what will compel clients to select your drone services over the competition.

It might be your rapid turnaround times, exceptional aerial photography, advanced data analysis for industries like agriculture or construction, or custom solutions for unique client needs.

Customer Segments

Moving on to Customer Segments.

Who will benefit from your services? Are you focusing on real estate agencies that need aerial shots, farmers who require crop monitoring, or perhaps event organizers looking for dynamic video content?

Identifying your target customers will influence many of your business choices, from service offerings to pricing strategies.

Now, let's talk about Channels.

Through which avenues will you engage with your customers? This may include a combination of digital and physical channels.

Consider leveraging a professional website for showcasing your portfolio, social media for engagement and updates, and industry events to network with potential clients.

Remember the importance of referrals and think about how you can incentivize clients to recommend your services.

Customer Relationships

Customer Relationships are about how you connect with your clients and ensure their satisfaction.

Outstanding service, prompt response to inquiries, and follow-ups on service quality are crucial.

Think about how you can use technology to streamline client interactions, such as through a client portal for project updates and deliverables.

Revenue Streams

The Revenue Streams section will have you ponder how your drone services company will generate income.

Beyond the primary service fees, consider additional revenue streams like offering training courses, selling drone-related products, or providing maintenance services for drones.

Get inventive and align these streams with your brand and client base.

Key Activities

On the flip side of the canvas, we have Key Activities.

These are the critical tasks required to run your drone services company. This includes conducting flights, processing data, marketing your services, and ensuring compliance with regulations.

Focus on the activities that are vital to delivering your value proposition and how you can perform them effectively.

Key Resources

Key Resources are the assets essential to your value proposition.

This encompasses your drones, skilled pilots, data analysts, software for processing data, and your customer database. Reflect on what you need to excel in your business and how to obtain these resources.

Key Partnerships

Key Partnerships could involve collaborations with technology providers, strategic alliances with complementary service providers, or partnerships with industry organizations.

For example, teaming up with software developers could enhance your data analysis capabilities, or working with a marketing firm could expand your reach.

Cost Structure

Finally, Cost Structure.

Operating a drone services company entails various expenses, from equipment and maintenance to insurance and employee salaries. Understanding these will help you manage your financial health effectively.

It's crucial to distinguish between fixed costs, such as insurance, and variable costs, like project-specific expenses, to manage your budget effectively.

What should be included in each section of the Business Model Canvas for a drone services company?

Struggling to figure out what to include in the Business Model Canvas for your drone services company? You might want to take a look at the template we've incorporated in our business plan template .

Here's a breakdown of what you could consider for each section of the Business Model Canvas for a drone services company.

Examples of Business Model Canvas for a drone services company

Below are examples of business model canvases for three different types of drone services companies: Aerial Photography Drone Services, Agricultural Drone Services, and Drone Delivery Services.

Aerial Photography Drone Services Business Model Canvas

Agricultural drone services business model canvas, drone delivery services business model canvas.

You can also read our articles about: - how to build a marketing strategy for your drone services company - how to segment the customers of your drone services company - how to make a competition study for your drone services company - how to establish a drone services company (guide)

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

Sample Drone Business Plan

Do you need help starting a drone photography company? If YES, here is a sample drone Business Plan.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles otherwise known as drones have found a lot of uses. These include security, photography, movies, music, and more. Several businesses have sprung up around this invention.

Starting any business of worth requires careful planning and patience. The drone  business is not left out of this.

There has been an increasing interest among entrepreneurs in this sector. More people are now finding a drone business more attractive , hence their willingness to join.

However, a drone business comes with its own challenges. There are several factors to consider during the initial planning stages, which is why this article has been written.

Necessary Tips and guidelines are given, which are essential to the success of the business venture.

DRONE PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS PLAN SAMPLE

Drone technology has today found a lot of usage in different industries.

Some of these businesses include photography, the adoption of the technology by security surveillance companies, the movie industry, for survey purposes, and a wide range of other areas where the technology has become relevant.

Here is a sample business plan for starting a drone service company.

Consider the Startup Cost

What do you need to start a drone business? You must give serious thought to how much is required to start a drone business.

Jumping into the business without careful financial analysis will most likely result in a failed business. A lot of businesses have become cash strapped (being underfunded) due to these mistakes.

By carefully studying what it takes to set up a drone business , you are laying a solid foundation for your business.

Hiring the services of a business strategist/consultant is very important during the planning stages. By carrying out a cash flow analysis, clearly exposes areas that need attention and helps in maximizing the profit potential of the business.

Have a Niche

Drones have found a lot of applications both for private and public usage.

Before now, private ownership of drones was a rare occurrence, but due to the versatility of drone machines, it has found usage in several industries.

Today, drone technology apart from being used by the military establishment has found relevance and is widely used for business. News agencies, the movie industry, research organizations, and several other industries have all adopted drone technology in promoting their businesses.

Knowing where your interest lies is important to the success of your drone business.

Carefully choosing your most preferred drone business from the long list of sectors drones have found application can mean the difference between success and failure.

The Target Market

The target market is where the bulk of patronage for your services will come from. For a drone business to be effective, the target market must be clearly identified.

Knowing your target market also comes with knowing your competition. Taking advantage of your target market goes together with effective marketing.

Starting a drone business requires that an elaborate marketing strategy is developed. This is targeted at increasing sales and patronage from clients.

To take advantage of your target market, consider putting in place a marketing department that will effectively plan on the marketing strategies to use. The quality of the workforce in a business’ marketing department will determine the success of the marketing campaign, and by extension, the patronage of the business.

Identifying Your Competition

Several other drone businesses will compete with yours, which means that you need an edge over them to gain a fair share of the market.

Providing innovative services will allow your drone business to stay afloat, and be relevant over other competing drone businesses.

Knowing your competitors’ weaknesses and exploiting these weaknesses can significantly increase your advantage over that of your competitors.

Working Within Regulatory Frameworks

There are established regulations a drone company or business must abide by.

Owning a drone business requires the owner to fully abide by this regulatory framework, as failure to do so can result in sanctions against the business which is not good for any business venture.

You must study in detail any set guidelines for drone business to avoid any disruptions to business.

Regulatory guidelines usually include issues like licensing and other related requirements. Fully abiding by these requirements is very important for anyone thinking of starting a drone business.

Purchase of Equipment

To start a drone business , all the required equipment needs to be put in place.

By having every piece of equipment in place, the drone business has a higher likelihood of succeeding than not. The cost of this equipment should be factored into the startup costs.

The quality of this equipment must be considered. Higher quality equipment significantly increases a drone business’ edge over the competition.

Full Insurance Cover

Every business needs a form of backup for times of uncertainty or likely challenges that might occur.

An insurance cover provides all the needed security during these trying times. The insurance cover must be all-encompassing, covering every area of the business.

Also, the insurance should be extended to the clients as it acts as a confidence booster for new clients. This convinces new clients that they are in safe hands should any eventualities occur.

As seen by the above information, starting a drone business requires careful planning and strategizing.

Although quite challenging especially during its teething period (challenges faced during its early stages), it can be very rewarding if perseverance and diligence are applied.

AERIAL DRONE PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS PLAN EXAMPLE

Setting up a drone photography business is a great business move. This is especially nice if you are a very good photographer. The society we live in today is one that obviously can’t do without professionally taken pictures.

This makes the business even more viable.

So, as long as people and events exist, there will always be a huge market for a drone photography business.

If you are looking to start a drone photography business, I will assume you already know the process and already have plans to write a business plan.

Well, to save you the stress of searching for an appropriate business plan, we have taken out time to write a drone photography business plan sample.

This will help you come up with a great business plan which is needed to start your business.

BUSINESS NAME: Skyline Drone Photography Company

Executive Summary

Our Products and Services

• Vision Statement
• Mission Statement

Business Structure

Market analysis, financial plan.

• Competitive Advantage

Skyline Drone Photography Company is owned by Theresa Wilson. It is a photography company that is based in Atlanta. At skyline drone photography, we have the license that is needed to provide photography for lots of different purposes.

Some of the major purposes of drone photography are tourism, research, and education. The drone photography business requires a lot in terms of capital. This is however not an issue for us because we have been able to take care of this by borrowing from friends, family, and the bank.

At Skyline drone Photography Company, we do not just work with people without knowing what purpose they intend to use their pictures for. We do this for security reasons and as a result of this, we have made arrangements with security agencies in the country to help us with this.

Skyline Drone Photography Company is in the photography business to provide high-resolution pictures and quality photography services to clients both in and out of the United States.

From our head office in Atlanta, we will offer our services to people in other parts of the United States.

Our vision at skyline drone Photography Company is to meet the photography needs of our clients as well as make good profits.

Our aim at skyline drone photography is to become one of the top 20 most recognized drone photography companies in the United States.

We aim to make this happen by making available top quality services to our numerous clients. We know it will take a lot of effort on our part if we must achieve this and rapidly also.

As a result of this, we are taking advantage of the latest technology in the drone photography industry. One other thing we intend to do to put our business on the success map is to franchise it in 5 years.

This we believe will help our brand spread and become a force to be reckoned with in the United States.

The business structure of every business is a strong determinant of the success or failure of the business. As a result of this, we will pay special attention to the way our drone photography business is structured.

To get the best structure possible, we will hire only those that meet our standards. We will also create a conducive environment for our workers

Market Trends

The drone photography business requires a high level of creativity as well as commitment from startups. Startups in this business also need good managerial as well as communication skills to make it in this business.

As a result of advancements in technology, the drone photography business has become very profitable. In this business are ample opportunities which when taken advantage of will lead to lots of good profit.

• Target Market

Not every form of photography needs drones. However, some forms of photography only end up well with the use of drones. Putting this into consideration, with our drone photography business, we are targeting government agencies and corporate organizations. At skyline drone Photography Company, our target market include

• Movie Producers
• Building Surveyors
• Government Agencies
• Agricultural Businesses.
• Sales and Marketing Strategy

We will make it a habit to make our brochures available to those we want to offer our services. Topping this list are movie producers, agricultural businesses, building surveyors, and government agencies.

The following are ways that we intend to market our products.

• Make handbills about our firm and the services we offer available in areas where people can easily see them. We will be dropping them in hospitals, banks, and places of worship.
• Adverts on forums and blogs
• Create a strong online presence by building a website and creating a Facebook page.
• We will join drone photography groups and clubs in our neighborhood. This will help us network and also get to know the latest trends in the drone photography business
• Offer cheap services to our first set of clients as well as our regular clients
• Increase our range by making sure our staff put on branded t-shirts with our logo on them.
• Provide a conducive working environment for our employees to make them more productive

Source of Startup Capital

We need a total amount of $100,000 to get this business running. At skyline drone Photography Company, we intend to raise money for running our business from three major sources.

They include our personal savings, friends and families, and bank loans.

The field of drone photography requires a very high level of expertise. It is not a job that can be handled by just anyone. This reality has greatly reduced the competition that exists in this business.

However, it does not eliminate it.

To stand out from other companies that are offering the same service, we will make sure that our business is located close to our clients. Also, we will employ professionals that are not only skillful but also have good communication skills and will treat customers with the utmost respect.

This is a business plan for a drone photography business. It is a business that is based in Atlanta and owned by Theresa Wilson.

This business will be set up with $100,000 which will be funded from our savings, and bank loans.

COMMERCIAL DRONE BUSINESS PLAN EXAMPLE

We have written this drone business plan sample to help people interested in this sector of business. Our targets are specifically those with limited knowledge on how to write a good plan for their business.

We will always advise you to find out as much as you can about the business you are going into. The feasibility study is the method through which you will achieve this.

Armed with this knowledge, reading this sample will enable you to articulate your findings into a solid plan of action.

Birds Eye Inc. is a registered drone photography business to be located in Montgomery, Alabama.

We specialize in the provision of High Definition aerial photography services to a variety of clients. These will cover environmental assessment studies, surveillance, power line inspections, commercial ads, and much more.

Although our business is new, we have been involved in the drone industry for over a decade.

Birds Eye’s proprietor James Scott has been involved in the running, maintenance, and administration of major drone photography businesses in New York, California, and Nevada.

He is bringing his wealth of experience to set up a world-class company that will provide services for both domestic and international clients.

• Products and Services

Because there is an increasing demand for highly professional drone photography services, our company is poised to provide these and more.

Our services will include the provision of power line inspections, the provision of high definition commercial ads, environmental assessment services, and surveillance.

We will also provide training to drone technicians as well as advisory services.

We are in an industry that is highly regulated. However, we are backed by the advantage of experience.

Hence, our vision is to establish a highly professional drone photography business.

We seek to break into the top 10 brackets of the best drone photography services in America within 10 years.

At Birds Eye Inc. we have a mission to serve an industry driven by innovation by providing excellent services. All clients we will be working with will experience unbeatable drone photography services.

Within the first 3 years of our takeoff, we seek to explore other drone business avenues. This will largely be determined by demand.

The drone business is capital intensive. The amount needed depends on the specific area of specialization.

For our photography business, we need the sum of $1,000.000.00. This will be raised from loans that are already in the application stage. A monthly interest rate of 3% is being worked on, with the principal to be paid in 10 years.

• SWOT Analysis

Measurement of our competitiveness and vulnerabilities has been worked on by a reputable business solutions firm. We have identified areas we have the most advantage as well as those which we will need to work more on as well as plan ahead of time for. The results show the following;

Our strength is bolstered by the fact that our proprietor and management staffs have a significant measure of experience in the drone business environment.

We are consolidating our advantage to run a highly efficient drone photography business.

Weakness is a constant feature for every business.

However, identifying them and handling them effectively will help overcome them. Our weakness is in our size. Major companies needing the services of drone businesses prefer to work with established and well-known brands.

As a new business, we are not yet in the top league. This will limit the type of clients we will have initially.

• Opportunities

There are increasing numbers of economic sectors needing the services of drone photography businesses. With several businesses and individuals needing our services, we have a unique opportunity to provide drone photography services that are second to none. We are also exploring possible areas of drone application that will enable us to expand our services shortly.

Threats to our drone business arise mainly from unfavorable policies that may disrupt or limit our operations.

The aviation industry for good reason has limited the altitude range for drone operations. Unstable policies may lead to a change regarding other areas of operations.

Also, the increasing level of terrorist threats is bad for business. Terrorists are likely to use drones to cause harm. This has led to stringent rules being implemented to regulate the industry.

Although these are for safety reasons, it has created several hurdles to doing business. These are in the form of bureaucratic bottlenecks.

• Sales Projection

How many sales do we expect to attract over the next three years? Using the current demand for drone photography services, we have arrived at a likely projection. This has been shown by the chart below;

• First Financial Year $80,000.00
• Second Financial Year $300,000.00
• Third Financial Year $1,000,000.00

Success in this industry depends on the edge we have over our competitors.

Although we are a small drone business, we have the advantage of having a team of seasoned professionals who have been involved in every level of management with major drone services companies. This will be used to our advantage in positioning our business for success.

Also, our connections are vast. We have succeeded in building our reputation with a rich collection of contacts.

These will be used in promoting our business as well as attracting patronage.

We have set up a world-class marketing department that will coordinate our marketing campaigns.

These campaigns will focus on the most effective measures such as choosing a catchy drone brand name, newspaper ads, social media promotion of our business, and taking our business to the doorsteps of potential clients.

Have identified our target market, and these consist of clients who frequently need the types of services we offer.

Some of these include corporate clients, private/individual clients, surveyors, film and music makers, and agencies of government. To widen our reach, we are understudying other possible areas we may likely be involved in.

This drone business plan sample has provided you with a good tool to use when writing your plan. It skips to provide you with a summary of what is expected.

Findings you make from your feasibility will help you expand on these areas and more.

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A Sample Drone Photography Business Plan Template

Are you about starting a UAV (drone) photography business? If YES, here’s a complete sample aerial drone photography business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE to raise money . Drone technology is rapidly gaining prominence in the globe beyond the military circuit.

Drones are unmanned but controlled aircraft ( aerial vehicle or unpiloted vehicle ) used in the military during war to attack the enemy’s camp and also are used by the military for surveillance and to gather intelligence. Drones are also used by the military to deliver foods to front line troops during war. Drones come in handy when the risk and difficulty involved in any military operation is high and unsafe for soldiers.

In recent time, the civilian community has started developing and making use of drones to carry out task such as surveying of vast farm lands (plantation), for delivery of parcels, to monitor and count wildlife and livestock, for  geographical mapping, for search and rescue operations, for monitoring pipelines, for road patrol and for general commercial photography and motion picture film making.

A Sample Aerial Drone Photography Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

Aerial photography is the taking of photographs of the ground from an elevated/direct-down position. Generally the camera is not supported by a ground-based structure. Platforms that are used for aerial photography include fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles ( UAVs or “drones” as they are commonly called ), balloons, blimps and dirigibles, rockets, pigeons, kites, parachutes, stand-alone telescoping and vehicle-mounted poles et al.

In all countries of the world where private investors are involved in aerial drone photography business, there are laws governing the industry. For example, in the united states, FAA guidelines stipulate that drones and other model aircraft must stay less than 400 feet above the ground and not within 3 miles of an airport or air traffic.

Some states in the US are strict when it comes to trespassing laws as well. Steering a drone over someone’s apartment and property could be considered a trespassing violation. Because anything capable of being viewed from a public space is considered outside the realm of privacy in the united states, aerial photography may legally document features and occurrences on private property.

On September 26, 2014, the FAA began granting the right to individuals and organizations to use drones in aerial film making. Operators are required to be licensed pilots and must keep the drone in view at all times and it is important to note that drones cannot be used to take pictures or film in areas where people might be put at risk.

The photography industry of which aerial drone photography business belongs to is indeed a very large and growing industry and pretty much active in the United States of America, Russia, Germany, Japan, China, South Korea and in most developed countries of the world.

If you are looking towards starting you’re an aerial drone photography business, then you should consider purchasing a 3D Robotics’ Iris or more popular models like DJI’s Phantom series. Generally, the GoPro Hero3 Black Edition is the standard when it comes to aerial videography and photography; it weighs only 73 grams and can record video (2,704×1,524 pixels) at 45Mbps.

It also features built-in Wi-Fi for downloading your footage and maximum compatibility with OEM and third-party accessories. You may want to see where you’re flying while steering a drone from the ground, for instance. To achieve this, you can use a tool like a video transmitter, such as the Immersion RC 5.8 GHz 600mw, which greatly increases the range of a 5.8GHz link, and then you can pair it with a Duo5800 or Uno5800 receiver on the ground to get noise-free video.

Over and above, the photography industry and the aerial drone photography line of business is a profitable industry and it is open for any aspiring entrepreneur to come in and establish his or her business; you can chose to start on a small scale working for just a private company or you can chose to start on a large scale working for both government establishments and large corporations who are into research and related businesses.

2. Executive Summary

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company is a registered and licensed business enterprise in the photography industry that will specialize in aerial drone photography business. Although our business will be based in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts where we were intend setting up our corporate office, but we intend working for clients both in the United States of America and the any part of the world.

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company will be involved in the all aspect of aerial drone photography services such as Phase I Environmental Site Assessments for property analysis, create orthophotos, alternatively known as orthophotomaps ( Orthophotos are commonly used in geographic information systems ), in cartography (particularly in photogrammetric surveys), which are often the basis for:

• Topographic maps
• Land-use planning
• Archaeology
• Movie production
• Environmental studies
• Power line inspection
• Surveillance
• Commercial advertising
• Conveyancing
• Artistic projects, et al.

Our business goal is to become one of the leading aerial drone photography company in the United States and we will make sure that every job we handle can favorable compete with the best in the industry.

We are aware that there are several large and small aerial drone photography businesses all around the United States which is why we spent time and resources to conduct our feasibility studies and market survey so as to position our aerial drone photography business in Bay Orleans – Massachusetts and also to offer much more than our competitors will be offering in terms of products and of course customer service.

Much more than producing top notch photos, our customer care is going to be second to none in the whole of Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts. We know that our customers are the reason why we are in business which is why we will go the extra mile to get them satisfied when they engage our services and also to become our loyal customers and ambassadors.

At Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company our client’s best interest come first and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics.

We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by delivering excellent and neat jobs and also meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely. We will cultivate a working environment that provides a human, sustainable approach to earning a living, and living in our world, for our partners, employees and for our clients.

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company is a family business that is owned by Rev. George Canton – Freeman and his family. The business will be managed by his son Marco Canton – Freeman a graduate of Business Administration who is a member of The DC Area Drone User Group – the largest UAV club in the US, and also the Academy of Model Aeronautics.

He has extensive experience working with one of the leading photography companies in the United States of America. He will bring his experience and expertise to help build and grow Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company to compete favorably with other leading aerial drone photography companies in the United States of America.

3. Our Products and Services

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company is in the aerial drone photography industry for the purpose of making profits and we will ensure we go all the way position our business in key cities in Bay Orleans, Massachusetts and other key cities in the United States of America.

Here are some of the products and services that will be offering;

• Phase I Environmental Site Assessments for property analysis
• Create orthophotos, alternatively known as orthophotomaps (Orthophotos are commonly used in geographic information systems)
• Cartography services particularly in photogrammetric surveys, which are often the basis for topographic maps, land-use planning, archaeology, movie production, environmental studies, power line inspection, surveillance, commercial advertising, conveyancing, and artistic projects
• Other related aerial drone photography advisory and consulting services.

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to build an aerial drone photography company that will have active presence all over Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts and other key cities both in the United States of America and Canada
• Our mission is to establish an aerial drone photography company that will make available a wide range of services and products as it relates to aerial drone photography business at affordable prices and to build a business that will grow to become one of the top 10 aerial drone photography companies in the United States.

Our Business Structure

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company do not intend to start a photo booth business whose presence can only be found in Bay – Orleans; our intention of starting an aerial drone photography business is to build a standard business with active presence in strategic locations in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts and of course other key cities spread across the United States and Canada.

We will ensure that we put the right structure in place that will support the kind of growth that we have in mind while setting up the business.

In putting in place a good business structure, we will ensure that we hire only people that are qualified, honest, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stake holders (the owners, workforce, and customers).

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. In view of that, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

• Chief Executive Officer (Owner)
• Admin and Human Resources Manager

Sales and Marketing Manager

Aerial Drone Photographic Specialist / Operators

• Client Services Executive

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
• Creates, communicates, and implements the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Reports to the board

Admin and HR Manager

• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Maintains office supplies by checking stocks; placing and expediting orders; evaluating new products.
• Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; calling for repairs.
• Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations.
• Enhances department and organization reputation by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests; exploring opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.
• Defines job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Oversees the smooth running of the daily office activities.
• Manages external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Models demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customer purchases
• Identifies, prioritizes, and reaches out to new partners, and business opportunities et al
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects.
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Documents all customer contact and information
• Represents these company in strategic meetings
• Helps to increase sales and growth for the company
• In charge of Phase I Environmental Site Assessments for property analysis
• Creates orthophotos, alternatively known as orthophotomaps (Orthophotos are commonly used in geographic information systems)
• Handles cartography services particularly in photogrammetric surveys, which are often the basis for topographic maps, land-use planning, archaeology, movie production, environmental studies, power line inspection, surveillance, commercial advertising, conveyancing, and artistic projects
• Handles other related aerial drone photography advisory and consulting services.
• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensures compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for the organization
• Serves as internal auditor for the organization

Client Service Executive

• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the human resources and admin manager in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc; to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries.

6. SWOT Analysis

Our intention of starting our aerial drone photography business in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts is to test run the business for a period of 3 to 6 months to know if we will invest more money, expand the business beyond Bay Orleans – Massachusetts to key cities in the United States and Canada.

We are quite aware that there are several aerial drone photographic businesses all over the United States and Canada and even in the same locations where we intend starting ours, which is why we are following the due process of establishing a business.

We know that if a proper SWOT analysis is conducted for our business, we will be able to position our business to maximize our strength, leverage on the opportunities that will be available to us, mitigate our risks and be well – equipped to confront our threats.

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company employed the services of an expert HR and Business Analyst with bias in start – ups to help us conduct a thorough SWOT analysis and to help us create a Business model that will help us achieve our business goals and objectives.

This is the summary of the SWOT analysis that was conducted for Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company;

The strategic locations we intend covering, the business model we will be operating on, ease of payment, wide range of products and our excellent customer service culture will definitely count as a strong strength for Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company. So also, we have a well – experienced and qualified team that can go all the way to give our clients value for their money; a team that are trained and equipped to pay attention to details.

A major weakness that may count against us is the fact that we are a new aerial photography business and we don’t have the financial capacity to compete with multi – million dollars photography companies who are also into aerial photography business.

• Opportunities:

The fact that we are launching out in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts, provides us with unlimited opportunities to sell our products and services to a large number of corporate organization, research institute, and film makers who need the services of aerial drone photography companies.

We have been able to conduct thorough feasibility studies and market survey and we know what our potential clients will be looking for when they hire our services; we are well positioned to take on the opportunities that will come our way.

Just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing / spending power. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of an aerial photography company or a photography company in same location where ours is located. unfavorable government policies can also pose a major threat to businesses such as ours.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

A close observation of the Photography industry shows that the industry has experienced several changes as digital cameras and post – production technologies have increasingly affected players in the industry. So also the use of aerial drone photography is on the rise and more businesses are keying into the trend.

While photographers are benefiting from the changes by increasing their efficiency and availability, consumers are now able to take professional-quality images without the need of a specialist. Nevertheless, revenue is expected to improve slightly in the next five years as photo booths and photography companies focus on niche markets, such as wedding photography, children photography, documentary photography, events, sports and church directory photography, to sustain demand.

Lastly, it will be observed that on recent time, the FAA began granting the right to individuals and organizations to use drones in aerial film making. Operators are required to be licensed pilots and must keep the drone in view at all times and it is important to note that drones cannot be used to take pictures or film in areas where people might be put at risk.

8. Our Target Market

The target market for those who need the services and products of aerial drone photography companies are all encompassing. It is a fact that there are some forms of photography that can’t be carried out except with the use of aerial drones or similar equipment / tools.

In view of that, we have positioned our aerial drone photography company to service the businesses, government agencies and corporate organizations Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts and every other in the United States of America and Canada. We have conducted our market research and we have ideas of what our target market would be expecting from us.

We are in the aerial drone photographic business to services clients such as;

• Businesses in the Agriculture Industry
• Film Makers
• Government agencies
• Every other organizations / businesses and individual who would need the services of an aerial drone photography company

Our Competitive Advantage

The competitions that exist in the aerial drone photography line of business may not be stiff simply because the business requires some level of technical skills and certifications. Although, the aerial drone photography business requires some form of trainings, certifications and expertise, it does not stop any serious minded entrepreneur to start the business and still make good profit out of this business.

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company is launching a standard aerial drone photography business that will indeed become the preferred choice of businesses and government agencies in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts and in every other location where our business will be opened.

The strategic locations we intend covering, the business model we will be operating on, ease of payment, wide range of products and our excellent customer service culture will definitely count as a competitive advantage for Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company. So also we have a well – experienced and qualified team that can go all the way to give our clients value for their money; a team that are trained and equipped to pay attention to details.

Lastly, our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (startups photography / aerial drone photography companies) in the industry meaning that they will be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the photography / aerial drone photography industry and we are going to go all the way to ensure that we do all it takes to offer our services and products to a wide range of customers.

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company will generate income by offering the following services and products;

10. Sales Forecast

One thing is certain; there would always be corporate organizations, businesses and government agencies in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts and in the United States of America who would always need the services of aerial drone photography companies for the various purposes.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts and in the United States and Canada. We are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income / profits from the first six month of operations and grow the business and our clientele base beyond Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts to other cities in the United States and Canada where we intend marketing our services.

We have been able to critically examine the aerial drone photography / photography industry and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projection is based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to startups in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts.

Below is the sales projection for Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company, it is based on the location of our business and the wide range of products and services that we will be offering;

• First Fiscal Year-: $100,000
• Second Fiscal Year-: $250,000
• Third Fiscal Year-: $750,000

N.B: This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and natural disasters within the period stated above. There won’t be any major competitor offering same additional services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Before choosing locations for launching our aerial drone photography business, we conduct a thorough market survey and feasibility studies in order for us to be able to be able to penetrate the available market and become the preferred choice for corporate organizations, business and government agencies in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts and other cities in the United States and Canada.

We have detailed information and data that we were able to utilize to structure our business to attract the numbers of customers we want to attract per time.

We hired experts who have good understanding of the aerial drone photography / photography industry to help us develop

In other to continue to be in business and grow, we must continue to attract clients to patronize our products and services which is why we will go all out to empower or sales and marketing team to deliver. In summary, Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company will adopt the following sales and marketing approach to win customers over;

• Introduce our business by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to corporate organizations, businesses in the agriculture sector, film makers, research organizations and key stake holders in Bay – Orleans and throughout the United States and Canada.
• Print handbills about our aerial drone photography business and its locations and drop them in public facilities.
• Advertise on the internet on blogs and forums, and also on social media like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn to get our message across, so that those on the social media or those who read blogs can know where to go when they need the services of an aerial drone photographer
• Creating a basic website for our business, so as to give our business an online presence
• Directly market our aerial drone photography business.
• Join local photography / aerial drone photography associations for industry trends and tips
• Provide discount days for our customers
• Advertise our business in community based newspapers, local TV and radio stations
• List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
• Encourage the use of Word of mouth marketing (referrals)

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

Despite the fact that our aerial drone photography company will be well located, we will still go ahead to intensify publicity for the business. We are going to explore all available means to promote our aerial drone photography business.

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company has a long term plan of covering various locations in major cities in the United States and Canada which is why we will deliberately build our brand to be well accepted in Bay – Orleans, Massachusetts before venturing out. As a matter of fact, our publicity and advertising strategy is not solely for winning customers over but to effectively communicate our brand.

Here are the platforms we intend leveraging on to promote and advertise Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company;

• Place adverts on both print (community based newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community programs
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook , twitter, et al to promote our brand
• Install our Bill Boards on strategic locations all around Bay Orleans – Massachusetts
• Engage in road show from time to time
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas
• Position our Flexi Banners at strategic positions in the location where our photo booths are located.
• Ensure that all our workers wear our branded shirts and all our aerial drones, vehicles are well branded with our company’s logo et al.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Pricing is one of the key factors that gives leverage to aerial drone photography business, it is normal for consumers to go to places where they can get good deals or hire the services of a company that can give them good bargain for their money. We are aware of this trend which is why we have put structures in place that will enable us charge fees that are a little below the industry’s average.

We will ensure that we reduce our overhead, and we are ready to run on low profit margin for the first six months of launching the business just for the purpose of attracting loyal clients and build our clientele base.

• Payment Options

At Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company, our payment policy will be all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that we will make available to our clients;

• Payment by via bank transfer
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via bank draft
• Payment with cash

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our plans with little or no itches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

In setting up any business, the amount or cost will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake. If you intend to go big by renting a place, then you would need a good amount of capital as you would need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conducive enough for workers to be creative and productive.

This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your goals, vision and aspirations for your business.

The tools and equipment that will be used are nearly the same cost everywhere, and any difference in prices would be minimal and can be overlooked. As for the detailed cost analysis for starting a photo booth business; it might differ in other countries due to the value of their money.

When it comes to starting an aerial drone photography business the major areas that you look towards spending the bulk of your cash is in the purchase of standard aerial drones with excellent cameras and of course renting or leasing well located facilities. Aside from that, you are not expected to spend much except for paying of your employees and the purchase of supplies.

This is the key areas where we will spend our start – up capital;

• The Total Fee for Registering the Business in the United States – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits as well as the accounting services ( software, P.O.S machines and other software ) – $1,300.
• Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening of the business in the amount of $3,500 and as well as flyer printing (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of $3,580.
• Cost for hiring Business Consultant – $2,500.
• Insurance ( general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty ) coverage at a total premium – $2,400.
• Cost for payment of rent for 12 month at $1.76 per square feet in the total amount of $105,600.
• Cost for the facility and remodeling ( construction of racks and shelves ) – $70,000.
• The cost for the purchase of aerial drones, cameras and accessories (a 3D Robotics’ Iris or DJI’s Phantom series, GoPro Hero3 Black Edition, built-in Wi-Fi for downloading your footage and maximum compatibility with OEM and third-party accessories, a video transmitter, such as the Immersion RC 5.8 GHz 600mw, which greatly increases the range of a 5.8GHz link, and then you can pair it with a Duo5800 or Uno5800 receiver on the ground to get noise-free video.) – $150,000
• Other start-up expenses including stationery ($500) and phone and utility deposits ( $2,500 ).
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $60,000
• The cost for start-up inventory (stocking with printing and photography supplies) – $100,000
• Cost for store equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $13,750
• Cost of purchase and installation of CCTVs: – $10,000
• The cost for the purchase of furniture and gadgets for the office (Computers, Printers, Telephone, TVs, Sound System, tables and chairs et al): $80,000.
• The cost of Launching a Website: $600
• The cost for our opening party: $7,000
• Miscellaneous: $10,000

We would need an estimate of $400,000 to successfully set up our aerial drone photography business in Bay Orleans, Massachusetts. Please note that this amount includes the salaries of all the staff for the first month of operation.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company is a private business that is solely owned and financed by Rev. George Canton – Freeman and his family. We do not intend to welcome any external business partners; which is why we have decided to restrict the sourcing of the start – up capital to 3 major sources.

Since they are the sole financier of the business, they have decided to adopt the following means to generate start – up capital for the business;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings
• Source for soft loans from family members and friends
• Apply for loan from my Bank

N.B: We have been able to generate about $50,000 (Personal savings $40,000 and soft loan from family members $10,000 ) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $300,000 from our bank. All the papers and document have been signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited with the amount.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the numbers of loyal customers that they have the capacity and competence of the employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business (company), then it won’t be too long before the business close shop.

One of our major goals of starting Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without the need for injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running. We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over is to deliver excellent jobs at all times

Wide – Spread Pictures® Aerial Drone Photography Company will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and re – training of our workforce is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of three years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check:>Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing standard photo booths: In Progress
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Leasing of our corporate office and remodeling the facility : In Progress
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the needed aerial drone photography equipment, furniture, racks, shelves, computers, electronic appliances, office appliances and CCTV: In Progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and around the community: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party / launching party planning: In Progress
• Compilation of our list of products that will be available in our various photo booths location: Completed
• Establishing business relationship with vendors – suppliers of all our needed products and photo booths et al: In Progress

More on Technology

Creating a Business Plan for Your Commercial Drone Business

You’ve purchased your fancy new drones and all its accessories, you’ve earned your Part 107 remote pilot certificate , and you’ve decided on a niche that you are good at and you think there’s a good chance for profit. What’s the next step you need to take to start your own drone-based service business?

At this point, we recommend taking a step back and evaluating the next steps you’ll need to take. Who are the clients you will be targeting? What will be your deliverables? How will you go about marketing your services? Coming up with a well-thought, detailed business plan is a good way to ensure that you are always on track to achieve your business goals.

You need a license from the FAA if you want to create a commercial drone company. You can get one by passing the Part 107 exam .

PART 107 Made Easy

• 161 Question and Answer Study Guide
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• Covers all parts of the Part 107 test
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What is a business plan and why do I need one?

A business plan is exactly what its name implies – a plan for how you are going to start and run your business. There isn’t a single template or a prescribed length for a business plan. In recent years, very long business plans have been eschewed in favor of leaner and concise ones, as they are easier to follow. It’s even possible for you to write your whole business plan in a single page.

Your business plan is a brief summary describing your company, the types of services you provide, the milestones you are aiming to achieve at certain points, how you intend to market your services, and your financial goals.

Just as important as formulating your business plan is regularly reviewing and revising it. You may need to check on upcoming milestones and whether you are on track to meet them, or if there are marketing strategies you are yet to implement. A business plan is basically a ‘yardstick’ with which you intend to measure the success of your business.

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to get a loan to start your business, then a business plan becomes even more important. Most financial institutions will require a business plan, among other documents, as proof that your business has a chance of success and that you can pay off the loan you are applying for.

What should I include in my drone business plan?

As we’ve mentioned, there is no hard and fast rule on what you need to include in your business plan. You can add your own sections, or substitutes others to what we have listed down here.

1. Executive summary

An executive summary should provide all of the most important points of your business plan so that a reader can understand the essence of what the plan states without having to read the whole document. The executive summary should mention the name of the business, the nature of services that the business is offering, a list of the members of the management team, the customers your business is targeting, and the long-term financial goals of the company.

This section needs to be short – ideally no longer than 300 words. You may include a single figure to more concisely describe your company’s financial goals.

2. Company overview

This section provides more details on what the company is, who owns it, and how and why it was started. It is prudent, at this point, to provide a good rationale for the founding of the company. Does it serve an important need of an industry or society? What are the qualifications of the company owner that makes them a good suited for this type of business?

Some business plans also provide a breakdown of the company’s startup costs in this section and where the funding will come from. For better understanding, it is often recommended to divide the startup costs into three categories: expenses, assets, and investments. These do not have to be actual values. Forecasted values will do.

If you are applying for funding through loans, then it is worthwhile to note in this section how much of the startup costs will come from a loan. Banks and other financial institutions will better appreciate a more self-funded business than one where most of the initial costs will be coming from a loan.

3. Service information

This part describes the nature of drone-based service that you intend to offer. You should have already decided this before writing a business plan, but you will have to expound it here. The most common options include drone photography , filmmaking, mapping, inspection, or real estate advertising.

No matter which niche you enter, you must include as much detail as possible. Are you going to offer on-site services, or will you just be selling your products in an online marketplace? Are you going to provide post-processing survey data? Do your deliverables include 3D models, NDVI maps, or thermal maps?

4. Marketing plan

The marketing plan is perhaps one of the most complex parts of your business plan, as it will require quite a lot of research. In this section, you need to justify that the services you are offering will serve sizable market demand. To do this, you’ll need to take a detailed look at how the drone-based service market is performing in your area during the past few months or years. You can do market surveys to gauge how potential customers feel about the services you plan to offer. If there is a gap between the current demand and the number of providers of your service, then you can affirm that you have a market opportunity.

You will also need to identify your potential clients. Are you going to cater to individual or corporations? Is there a particular industrial sector that has a high demand for your service? OR are there clients that can pay more for your service? For instance, a pilot doing drone-based surveys may find more clients in the construction industry, but the limited clientele in the oil and gas industry has the potential to pay higher rates.

At this point, you will have to set a rate for your services. It’s your choice on whether you want to do it on a per job, per day, or per hour basis. Just make sure that the rate you declared is consistent with the financial goals and milestones that you have established in the latter parts of this business plan.

Lastly, you need to answer the most important question behind every marketing plan: how will you reach your clients? Are you going to build a professional website? Are you going to pay for advertisements on social media? How about attending conferences and doing cold calls? Different clients require different approaches, so an in-depth knowledge of the clients you are targeting will be a huge help in developing this section. You can also take a look at what your competition is doing and identify what works versus what doesn’t.

5. List of milestones

A milestone is basically a target you set for your business. You can have several milestones set in regular time intervals, such as every three or six months. You can also set your milestones in terms of either the number of sales or amount of earnings.

A milestone doesn’t even have to be a number. In the initial phase of your business, you can define a milestone that focuses on marketing: how many clients you’ve come in contact with, how many have responded, and how many have proposed potential jobs.

When coming up with your goals, we suggest sticking to the SMART formula: they must be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-bound. By having clearly defined milestones, you have a measure of how well your business is doing and if you need to step up to improve your company’s performance.

6. Company members and stakeholders

If your company is under sole proprietorship, then this section is hardly necessary. However, if your company consists of multiple people, then you need to define the roles and responsibilities of each person. You can also provide a breakdown of how these members will be compensated. Do they get a fixed percentage of the earnings for each project? Or are they going to receive a regular salary?

7. Financial plan

Lastly, the financial plan shows how you are going to generate profit based on your forecasted sales. The figures you have cited in previous sections, including the startup costs, personnel salaries, milestones, and loans will have to be incorporated into the financial plan. You will also need to make a list of recurrent expenses, such as the cost of website hosting, annual insurance premiums, office rental, and other business expenses.

Remember to list down all the assets, including your drone and its various accessories. Of course, every asset depreciates in value, so take the time to find out the useful life for each piece of equipment you have.

There are various ways for how you can present your company’s financial plan, and we are probably not qualified enough to give you advice on this matter. At the most basic, you need to provide monthly and annual profit forecasts, a break-even analysis, and a cash-flow diagram.

Reviewing your business plan

Just as important as formulating your business plan is reviewing and revising it now and then. As the saying goes, plans are made to be changed. A lot of things can come up, especially in the first few months of your business, that will prompt you to make changes in your business plan.

1. Checking up on milestones

Goals are important, but they are useless if they are not monitored with regards to actual performance. By periodically comparing actual figures to your milestones, you can assess if your business is in the right track or if you need to step in with some drastic changes.

Do you need to increase efforts towards marketing? Are contracts being fulfilled and are payments being received on time? Perhaps you need to reevaluate the types of clients you are targeting if you are failing in achieving your milestones.

2. Updating your financial plan

A financial plan that forecasts turning a profit over a year could change quickly due to a lot of factors. Did you fail in securing a client in the first three months of business operations? Did you have unanticipated expenses due to equipment breakdown? Are the actual interests on your loan higher than what you had forecasted?

By plugging in those revised numbers in your financial plan, you gain a more realistic picture of how the company is performing. Perhaps you’ll have to wait a little more to gain a profit, or perhaps you can do something to improve your performance such as renegotiating the terms of your loan. By reviewing your business plan regularly, you can identify these problems and come up with a solution right away.

Final thoughts

Starting any business is both exciting and scary, more so if it’s based on a passion project such as drone flight. As long as you have the skills and there is a demand for the service you offer, then there shouldn’t be any reason for your business idea to fail. However, it takes more than flight skill and passion for a drone business to succeed.

Coming up with a detailed and realistic business plan is the best thing you can do before you start your drone business. By taking a detailed look at the market, listing down your startup costs and recurrent expenses, and setting performance-based milestones, you will have a better picture of how profitable your business idea could be. It’s horribly cheesy, but there is quite a lot of wisdom to the saying that those who fail to plan, plan to fail.

Play around with your idea, come up with a business plan, and who knows? You might just be the next big thing.

8 Best Tips for Time-Lapse Photography Using Drones

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40 Best Drone Business Ideas for 2024

A drone is any aerial vehicle that receives remote commands from a pilot or relies on software for autonomous flight. Videography, search and rescue, agriculture, and transportation have all adopted drone technology. 

40 Unique Drone Business Ideas and Opportunities in 2024

1. photography, 2. insurance claim processing, 3. drone renting, 5. drone youtube channel, 6. building inspections, 7. warehouse inventory management, 8. drone parts retailing and repairs, 9. package delivery by drones, 10. utility equipment inspection work, 11. pipeline monitoring and security, 12. drone advertising & marketing, 13. drone aerobatics shows, 14. fast food delivery, 15. search and rescue (sar) drone pilot, 16. film making, 17. the resort, hotel advertisement and casino monitoring, 18. fishing drones, 19. conservation and environmental regulation compliance, 20. private investigation company.

• 21. Aerial surveying

22. Security surveillance

23. drone selecting business, 24. disaster relief agency, 25. news media coverage, 26. solar installation safety and effectiveness, 27. inspection of construction company, 28. drone sales, repair, training, and customization, 29. power line and cable inspections, 30. drone home/roof inspection, 31. critical infrastructure inspection, 32. crop monitoring, 33. studio with drone service, 34. underwater inspections, 35. create an online drone course, 36. drone rentals, 37. marine photography, 38. drone repairs, 39. fishing drones, 40. real estate photography, explore more business ideas, 61 most exciting entertainment business ideas, top 74 food business ideas with low investments, top 52 profitable winter business ideas, 50 best cash flow businesses ideas, top 100 small town business ideas, top 53 passive income ideas for students to make money, 73 best high profitable business ideas for men, top 100 service business ideas, top 30 drop service business ideas, top 34 box truck business ideas to start in 2024, 50 best business ideas for couples in (2024), 33 best business ideas for mobile businesses in (2024), top 14 profitable ecommerce business ideas, 33 profitable consulting business ideas for 2024, 28 creative food truck ideas for your new business, startup business ideas for women, 54 profitable side business ideas to start in 2024.

Many drones have cameras that collect visual data and propellers that stabilize their flight patterns.

The increasing demand for drones has made them more accessible. If you are skilled at operating a drone, you can join the growing ranks of people who possess the knowledge of how to use it.

It may be a good idea for you to start a drone business if you are technically inclined and looking for a new business. Offering drone services on a contract basis could be a great part-time or home-based business.

Want to write a business plan?

Hire our professional business plan writers now!

When planning outdoor weddings or other special events, being able to view life’s most memorable events from above is very helpful. 

People who don’t want to miss their once-in-a-lifetime event can start a business with low investment and large profit potential.

Many photographers work as freelancers and work for private clients, including wedding couples, real estate agents, and business owners. 

A drone photography business can also be made money by selling stock photos to sites such as Getty Images, Free Pik, and Adobe Illustrator.

Pro Tip: To start a photography business, you need a business plan. Using a photography business plan template will help you determine what elements make up a good plan.

The use of drones on-demand to assess damage resulting from theft, flooding, and natural disasters is a new, safer, and more efficient way of assessing the damage. 

About 17% of commercial drones are used for insurance purposes at present. Many times when crises occur, adjusters are scrambling and cannot address every claim with speed, safety, and accuracy due to a lack of human resources.

A drone operator can deploy their equipment instantly to capture and analyze the damage and generate reports in record time, resulting in more sensitive processing and payment of claims for those affected directly.

Those who don’t have regular requirements for drones, prefer to have the drone service on a rental basis. You can start a drone renting business on your own. 

However, the business demands substantial capital investment for purchasing drones. Additionally, you must put your creative emphasis on marketing too.

In today’s world, drone experts can quickly and easily measure and map towns, buildings, and landmasses using geo-reference maps. Today’s drones are able to provide accurate measurements for digital survey data. This is a service that is in high demand.

In addition to mapping cartographic information with incredible accuracy, drones can also be used in monitoring flooding, pollution, mining, construction, and urban planning.

There are many people who enjoy watching drone footage. You could create compelling videos and post them on YouTube on your own drone channel. 

Many YouTubers who cover travel and vacation destinations earn thousands of dollars each month from ad revenue.

Publish beautiful videos to attract more subscribers. After you increase the number of page views on your videos, advertisers will pay you more to post their ads there.

The process of inspecting a roof can be complicated, costly, and dangerous, especially for multistory buildings. This can be done safely and inexpensively using drone technology, making it a great drone business opportunity.

By conducting a close-up inspection of the exterior of a building using a drone, a building owner can detect potential trouble spots before they become major.

Drone inspection services could be an ideal business for someone with a background in construction or building inspection.

Amazon, Walmart, and other major retailers use drones to manage their inventory, shipping processes, and logistics. In addition to saving companies money, drones can speed up the distribution of their products. 

Drones are increasingly being used to count inventory, locate goods, and gather items for shipment.

Open a shop selling parts for drones. Drones are machines, and just like any other machine, they develop faults or require new parts. Profits will be awesome in your shop if you sell these items.

The good thing about starting a small business like this is that you’ll be able to draw lots of customers if you offer top-notch services.

The use of drones for delivery is now legal in many states. Amazon, the largest online retailer, is actively pursuing this delivery method. In comparison to traditional transportation methods such as planes and trucks, drones can deliver many different types of items quickly and at a lower cost.

Drone operators are now being sought by utility companies, which previously used helicopters to inspect electrical lines at great expense and risk to pilots.

Remote substations, pumping stations, and other facilities must be inspected regularly by these companies. Using your small unmanned aerial vehicle is the best solution.

The utility companies use commercially piloted aircraft, such as aeroplanes and helicopters, for inspection of hundreds of miles of electric lines, towers, substations, and pipelines.

Small unmanned systems equipped with cameras and video transmitters are replacing much of the routine inspection that was very expensive and dangerous for pilots and inspectors.

Advertise local businesses by carrying banners displaying their logo messages in the air. 

You could also film a video of the headquarters, stores, and product demonstrations, which you can post on their website and social media accounts in order to maximize exposure.

ProTip: It’s necessary to have a business plan if you want to start a drone advertising and marketing business. To help you write your own plan, download our free business plan sample pdf .

Enter events like Drone Racing or create your own competitions. Drone racing is a lucrative business where people can bet and gamble on which drone will win, just like horse racing, car racing, bicycle racing, and all other races.

To host such a show as this, you will need a great deal of money, so make sure you are well prepared financially.

This could be a great opportunity for you if you live in a densely populated area since you can start a delivery service that delivers fast-food using a drone. This would be a great way for you to generate income.

Police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical teams use drones to save lives.

In the case of remote and difficult-to-access areas of land and water where people and animals could be injured or stranded, experienced SAR drone pilots can be an invaluable source of help, particularly those with thermal imaging equipment.

Besides being weather and terrain-proof, many have the ability to deliver food and medical supplies where needed.

Drone pilots can attend specific courses to prepare for critical, high-stress, and unpredictable situations during times of emergency or disaster.

Set up a filmmaking studio specializing in aerial footage. A company of this type can serve a diverse range of B2B customers. 

Tourism landmarks, accommodations, real estate agencies, and entertainment venues like theme parks can all benefit from aerial footage.

Even filmmakers are looking for experienced drone pilots who can add specialized footage to their films. The possibilities are endless, and you’ll be surprised by the number of potential customers.

If you want to showcase a spectacular hotel on the perfect piece of property, what better way than to use a small drone to provide visitors with aerial footage and video footage?

Hotel and resort marketing agencies understand that unique video perspectives offer an edge in an otherwise tired marketing mix at a time when hotels and resorts are fighting tooth and nail for advertising impressions and to stand out from the crowd on hotel booking applications.

Fishing with drones is the hottest new business idea for drones. By using drones, you can find schools of fish in waterways and direct fishermen to exactly where they are.

Submersible drones and waterproof drones can also be used for this purpose.

The Wildlife Conservation Society began training Belize Fisheries Department operators to use drones to track illegal fishing activities in June.

Just as the lobster season began, drones were put to use. The use of drones in conservation and tracking down poachers is on the rise.

A drone can be used by biologists and researchers for counting birds and polar bears in the field, while those responsible for enforcing environmental laws look for hard-to-detect activities like illegal logging.

The use of drones can be very useful in even the smallest of investigations. Drones enable you to get limitless information without having to be on the ground.

In restricted areas, the drone will uncover or obtain information. Research and findings can help you decide whether to start this type of business.

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21.  aerial surveying.

By using drones, land that has been inaccessible can be photographed and measured from the air. 

Because of these capabilities, they are ideal for surveying and mapping difficult terrain. Drones and unmanned aerial vehicles are replacing helicopters for surveying in many cases.

Professional organizations such as energy power plants, government land management departments, construction firms, and businesses require this type of aerial survey service. 

You may sell topography, digital mapping, and archaeology data as part of your services. Aerial photography and land surveying skills are required to succeed. In some cases, additional certifications will be required.

There are many opportunities for drone businesses in the home and commercial security sectors.

Live video footage of a home invasion can be captured by a drone and sent to a smartphone, as well as notified to the police if necessary. 

In addition to detecting fires and water leaks, drones can send live video feeds to a home or business owner’s mobile device or to a central monitoring station.

To get started with private security, you can hire a security company or start your own. To use drones in law enforcement, you would need to join a police department.

You can start a business helping companies or individuals select drones if you know the drone will deliver high-quality footage that meets your business idea’s requirements. Take some time to evaluate your options and find out what your biggest strengths are.

Once you’ve gathered all of this information, you should be able to decide whether you want to start a drone-based business. After drafting a business plan and financial plan, you can then decide whether drone-based start-ups are a good option for making money.

In areas affected by natural disasters such as flooding, hurricanes, tornadoes and earthquakes, where land travel is impossible and dangerous, drones can provide public safety officials with real-time video footage.

In Central America, disaster management and emergency response officials recently engaged freelance UAV pilots to provide video services in support of their relief and repair efforts following several very powerful earthquakes.

Drones can provide excellent video footage of large events without any distractions or interruptions. Sell your drone services to the news media to include on their website or social media.

It is much safer for journalists to send a drone into a dangerous area to obtain news footage than to use a helicopter to report traffic daily. Drones can even replace helicopters to provide daily traffic reports.

For years, competitors have been gathered through aerial photo reconnaissance.

With the advent of small and very cheap UAVs, it is now possible to obtain information about the size and capacity of manufacturing facilities, employee numbers, business expansion, development of on-site infrastructure, and a wide range of other practical information, as opposed to the otherwise enormous costs of using piloted commercial aircraft such as helicopters and aeroplanes.

The drone service can also be offered at construction sites. For large construction projects, drones can be extremely useful and effective in taking photographs and reports. You can easily get the elevation or view of the rooftop.

Additionally, it is useful for structures that are difficult to access. These include bridges, cell and TV towers, wind turbines, power lines, pipelines, and solar panels.

Even though drone prices have declined significantly, most drones remain too expensive to simply throw away. Drones are fragile devices that are prone to failure and damage, especially when misused.

You could make money selling, repairing, and customizing drones if you are an expert with drones and have knowledge of electronics.

If you have the appropriate UAS (unmanned aircraft system) skills, experience, and FAA certifications, why not offer your services as a drone instructor?

A drone inspection service is another drone business opportunity. Check rooftops for damage or routine inspections. Get a thermal imaging camera for your drone, and observe rooftop equipment. Use drone inspection services to inspect tower antennas, or cell phone towers.

You may prevent a complete breakdown of service by detecting potential issues with equipment overheating, such as air conditioners and thermal imaging cameras. Thermal imaging cameras are also useful for monitoring expensive equipment.

Home inspection businesses that utilize drones can be highly profitable, with drone-assisted roof inspections costing  $150  to  $400  on average.

In comparison to traditional home inspections, drones provide aerial views of difficult-to-access exterior spaces like roofs, gutters, HVAC systems and chimneys without causing damage to the inspector or property. Aside from being cheaper, they are also more convenient for those who need inspections.

An aerial survey was used in cartography, topography, feature recognition, archaeology and GIS applications long before helicopters and aeroplanes were commercially piloted. 

It provides information on terrestrial sites that are difficult to observe or measure from the ground, or even impossible.

Due to their enormous cost savings, small unmanned aerial vehicles are rapidly taking over the field of digital photogrammetric mapping and orthography due to their ability to carry a variety of visual imagery payloads at a slower and lower speed than much larger traditional aircraft.

When farmers can monitor the health of their crops in real-time, they can make adjustments as needed, which presents tremendous opportunities for drone pilots living in rural areas.

Drone operators can also use drones to spray chemicals, such as herbicides and pesticides, where they are most needed based on surveys. 

Drone technology in agriculture has such promising implications that the market is expected to grow to  $6.52  billion by  2026 , up from  $1.19  billion in  2018 .

It’s another great business for creative people. Nowadays, directors use drones more efficiently than trolleys. In essence, you can shoot videos at any distance.

Establish a studio equipped with drones and pilots that are highly efficient. After all, drones make much more sense for photography than helicopters.

You can start a business performing underwater inspections with a submersible drone. 

Before, these machines were only used by government research labs and universities, but the prices have decreased, opening up new opportunities.

Expand this business by offering underwater footage of scuba divers enjoying their hobbies, such as underwater inspections for environmental assessments, law enforcement, dock building, boat marinas, and artistic ocean life photography art.

If you’re looking to learn how to write a business plan or grow succulents, you’ll definitely find an online course that’s right for you.

There will be more drone owners in the future. You can also create an online course that teaches drone beginners how to use their drones. Drone education is a great way to monetize your drone expertise.

It might be a good idea to start a drone rental business if you own the equipment or your services. You may have the technology and aptitude that a nearby business is seeking to understand the impacts drones can have on their business.

Your community may also have individuals who need drones for one-time projects or events.

Consider joining an online peer-to-peer marketplace like Fat Lama, where drones can be rented based on location, or UpSonder, a marketplace for renting or selling drone piloting services.

Many consumers link drones with gorgeous landscape photography. However, the last business idea demonstrated that drones can fly in the sky as well as dive into the ocean. Imagine capturing the beauty of underwater landscapes.

With drone photography, you can capture stunning photos and videos of seaweed forests and vibrant coral reefs.

You might find marine photography with drones to be your next niche as a photographer.

Drones are still fragile tools prone to damage or failure. Despite the price drop, drones are still expensive. Most consumers prefer to repair an existing drone than purchase a new one.

A drone repair shop fills this market need, whether it is damaged from a collision or malfunctioning from weather exposure. This business idea is attractive to people who enjoy building things and understand how they work.

In order to help fishermen catch fish, drones can be used to search waterways for fish schools, direct fishermen to those exact fish schools, and replace humans in the process.

Waterproof drones and submersible drones can be used to do this.

In the real estate market, quality photography is crucial for capturing a home or commercial property’s best features and generating interest, and professional photographers can help.

 It is important to note that most do not provide aerial views, which are crucial for providing context and perspective to potential buyers, thus increasing a property’s appeal.

For a  60-90  minute session, you can charge  $250 – $350  on average for capturing captivating, high-quality photos and videos from drones equipped with cameras. If you offer more services, like a photo or video editing, you can charge more.

ProTip: The first step in starting a drone business is to create a business plan. You can download a sample business plan pdf for inspiration.

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Some profitable drone business ideas include aerial photography and videography, drone inspection services, agricultural drone services, real estate marketing with drones, and drone delivery services.

Yes, in most countries, you need to obtain a drone pilot license or certification to operate a drone for commercial purposes. It’s essential to check the regulations and requirements in your specific location.

The cost of starting a drone business can vary depending on various factors such as the type of services offered, equipment costs, licensing fees, marketing expenses, and insurance. It’s advisable to create a detailed business plan to estimate the startup costs accurately.

Yes, the drone industry is experiencing significant growth and offers ample opportunities for entrepreneurs. With advancements in technology and increasing applications of drones in various industries, the demand for drone services is expected to rise.

Yes, operating a drone business comes with legal considerations such as obtaining the necessary permits and licenses, following aviation regulations, respecting privacy laws, and adhering to local airspace restrictions. It’s crucial to stay informed about the legal requirements in your area.

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Drone Delivery Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Whether you are looking to move into the world of drone delivery or enhance your current model, the #1 Drone Delivery Business Plan Template & Guidebook gives you a comprehensive overview of the steps and components necessary for success. This template and guidebook provide an invaluable resource for entrepreneurs, giving them the tools and insights to develop a powerful business plan that can help make their delivery dreams a reality.

Get worry-free services and support to launch your business starting at $0 plus state fees.

• How to Start a Profitable Drone Delivery Business [11 Steps]

How to Write a Drone Delivery Business Plan in 7 Steps:

1. describe the purpose of your drone delivery business..

The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your drone delivery business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers. This is a quick way to get your mind thinking about the customers’ problems. It also helps you identify what makes your business different from others in its industry.

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

Here is an example of a purpose mission statement for a drone delivery business:

Our purpose is to revolutionize domestic and commercial delivery services by leveraging advanced drone technology to provide efficient, fast, cost-effective, and reliable delivery services. We will be a leader in innovative innovation, customer service, sustainability, and safety. We will strive to create a positive impact on communities both locally and globally.

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Drone Delivery Business.

The next step is to outline your products and services for your drone delivery business. 

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

• What is my business?
• What are the products and/or services that I offer?
• Why am I offering these particular products and/or services?
• How do I differentiate myself from competitors with similar offerings?
• How will I market my products and services?

You may want to do a comparison of your business plan against those of other competitors in the area, or even with online reviews. This way, you can find out what people like about them and what they don’t like, so that you can either improve upon their offerings or avoid doing so altogether.

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your drone delivery business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

A good marketing plan for your drone delivery business includes the following elements:

Target market

• Who is your target market?
• What do these customers have in common?
• How many of them are there?
• How can you best reach them with your message or product?

Customer base 

• Who are your current customers? 
• Where did they come from (i.e., referrals)?
• How can their experience with your drone delivery business help make them repeat customers, consumers, visitors, subscribers, or advocates for other people in their network or industry who might also benefit from using this service, product, or brand?

Product or service description

• How does it work, what features does it have, and what are its benefits?
• Can anyone use this product or service regardless of age or gender?
• Can anyone visually see themselves using this product or service?
• How will they feel when they do so? If so, how long will the feeling last after purchasing (or trying) the product/service for the first time?

Competitive analysis

• Which companies are competing with yours today (and why)? 
• Which ones may enter into competition with yours tomorrow if they find out about it now through word-of-mouth advertising; social media networks; friends' recommendations; etc.)
• What specific advantages does each competitor offer over yours currently?

Marketing channels

• Which marketing channel do you intend to leverage to attract new customers?
• What is your estimated marketing budget needed?
• What is the projected cost to acquire a new customer?
• How many of your customers do you instead will return?

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4. Write Your Operational Plan.

Next, you'll need to build your operational plan. This section describes the type of business you'll be running, and includes the steps involved in your operations. 

In it, you should list:

• The equipment and facilities needed
• Who will be involved in the business (employees, contractors)
• Financial requirements for each step
• Milestones & KPIs
• Location of your business
• Zoning & permits required for the business

What equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a drone delivery business?

• Battery and Charger
• Security and Tracking Equipment
• Mechanical Parts (Motors, Propellers)
• Delivery Supplies (Envelopes, Packaging)
• Flight Permits from Local/Federal Aviation Administration

5. Management & Organization of Your Drone Delivery Business.

The second part of your drone delivery business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

This section will cover all of the following:

• How many employees you need in order to run your drone delivery business. This should include the roles they will play (for example, one person may be responsible for managing administrative duties while another might be in charge of customer service).
• The structure of your management team. The higher-ups like yourself should be able to delegate tasks through lower-level managers who are directly responsible for their given department (inventory and sales, etc.).
• How you’re going to make sure that everyone on board is doing their job well. You’ll want check-ins with employees regularly so they have time to ask questions or voice concerns if needed; this also gives you time to offer support where necessary while staying informed on how things are going within individual departments too!

6. Drone Delivery Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

This section should be broken down by month and year. If you are still in the planning stage of your business, it may be helpful to estimate how much money will be needed each month until you reach profitability.

Typically, expenses for your business can be broken into a few basic categories:

Startup Costs

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a drone delivery business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a drone delivery business.

Running & Operating Costs

Running costs refer to ongoing expenses related directly with operating your business over time like electricity bills or salaries paid out each month. These types of expenses will vary greatly depending on multiple variables such as location, team size, utility costs, etc.

Marketing & Sales Expenses

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your drone delivery business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

A financial plan is an important part of any business plan, as it outlines how the business will generate revenue and profit, and how it will use that profit to grow and sustain itself. To devise a financial plan for your drone delivery business, you will need to consider a number of factors, including your start-up costs, operating costs, projected revenue, and expenses. 

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your drone delivery business plan:

• Determine your start-up costs: This will include the cost of purchasing or leasing the space where you will operate your business, as well as the cost of buying or leasing any equipment or supplies that you need to start the business.
• Estimate your operating costs: Operating costs will include utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, as well as labor costs for employees, if any, and the cost of purchasing any materials or supplies that you will need to run your business.
• Project your revenue: To project your revenue, you will need to consider the number of customers you expect to have and the average amount they will spend on each visit. You can use this information to estimate how much money you will make from selling your products or services.
• Estimate your expenses: In addition to your operating costs, you will need to consider other expenses, such as insurance, marketing, and maintenance. You will also need to set aside money for taxes and other fees.
• Create a budget: Once you have estimated your start-up costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses, you can use this information to create a budget for your business. This will help you to see how much money you will need to start the business, and how much profit you can expect to make.
• Develop a plan for using your profit: Finally, you will need to decide how you will use your profit to grow and sustain your business. This might include investing in new equipment, expanding the business, or saving for a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drone Delivery Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a drone delivery business.

A business plan for a drone delivery business is important in order to outline the goals and objectives of the business, develop a roadmap to success, and secure funding. It also provides a useful tool for assessing the feasibility of the venture, comparing the potential of different options, and creating an actionable timeline. Additionally, a business plan can help provide potential investors with a clear understanding of the potential financial benefits and risks associated with investing in a drone delivery business.

Who should you ask for help with your drone delivery business plan?

You should ask for help from professionals such as business consultants, logistics experts, industry leaders, and financial advisors. Additionally, researching other companies who have successfully implemented drone delivery models can provide valuable insight.

Can you write a drone delivery business plan yourself?

Writing a business plan for a drone delivery business requires a great deal of research and planning. There are many components that go into creating a comprehensive business plan, including market analysis, financial projections, and operational strategy. Depending on your level of expertise and available resources, you may need to consult with experts to ensure that your business plan is comprehensive and thorough. Additionally, there are many templates and resources available online to help guide you in creating your own business plan.

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I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.