Board presentation template

How to run it

1. 1Replace the sample metrics, risks and asks with yours, and send the deck as a pre-read five days before the meeting.
2. 2Run the meeting with the startup board meeting agenda: little presenting, most of the time on discussion and decisions.
3. 3Open the ranking slide at the start so directors choose where discussion time goes.
4. 4Use the straw poll to see where the board stands, then take formal votes by motion so they're recorded properly in the minutes.

Questions people ask

What should be in a board deck?

A short CEO summary, key metrics against plan, what's working and what isn't, top risks, specific asks of the board, and the decisions needed at the meeting.

How long should a board presentation be?

Around 15 slides plus an appendix. Send it as a pre-read and spend the meeting on discussion and decisions instead of presenting every slide.

When should you send the board deck?

Most boards expect it three to seven days before the meeting, so directors have time to read it and come with questions.