Making a Business Model Canvas might sound like a complicated, “MBA-only” task, but it’s actually pretty simple once you know the building blocks.

Think of it as filling in nine big puzzle pieces — each one representing a key part of your idea.

Here’s the standard layout most innovators, researchers, and organizations use:

1. Customer Segments

Who are you trying to help?
Be specific. “Everyone” is not an answer.
Example:

• Busy working parents

• Small organic farmers in rural areas

2. Value Proposition

What problem are you solving, and why is your solution worth caring about?
Example:

• “Save farmers time by giving them instant soil health data.”

3. Channels

How will you reach the people you’re helping?
Example:

• Mobile app

• Local extension offices

• Research publications

4. Customer Relationships

How will you interact with your customers or users?
Example:

• One-on-one onboarding

• Automated help desk

• Field visits

5. Revenue Streams (or Funding Sources for public/research projects)

How will you sustain the work?
Example:

• Subscription fees

• Government grants

• Research funding programs

6. Key Resources

What important assets do you need?
Example:

• Skilled research staff

• IoT devices for data collection

• Cloud storage

7. Key Activities

What are the most important things you must do to deliver value?
Example:

• Conduct field research

• Develop software

• Run training workshops

8. Key Partners

Who will help you succeed?
Example:

• University labs

• Local NGOs

• Technology providers

9. Cost Structure

What will it cost to keep things running?
Example:

• Equipment maintenance

• Staff salaries

• Hosting fees

Once you’ve filled in all nine sections, you’ll have a clear snapshot of your project — whether it’s a scrappy startup idea or a nationwide research program.

And remember:
It doesn’t have to be perfect on the first try. The point is to start and then improve as you learn more from your customers, users, or stakeholders.