This document provides an overview of preparing a business plan, including why it is necessary, when it is needed, and its key components. A business plan benefits a new or growing business as a reality check, business resume, operations timetable, modeling tool, and blueprint. The main components of a business plan are an executive summary, business description, operations, marketing, personnel, financials, and appendices. Research, financial forecasts, and supporting documents are also important elements to include.