Nonprofit Board Decision Memo Template
Make board decisions easier to evaluate, document, and implement. This practical outline keeps discussion focused on the choice, evidence, tradeoffs, and accountable next steps.
1. Decision requested
State the specific motion or approval needed, the deadline, and who is accountable for bringing it forward.
2. Context and need
Summarize the current situation, whom it affects, and why the decision matters to your mission.
3. Options and tradeoffs
Describe at least two viable alternatives, including doing nothing. Compare costs, benefits, risks, equity implications, and staff capacity.
4. Recommendation
Explain your proposed decision, assumptions, resource requirements, and how you will know whether it worked.
5. Implementation and follow-up
Record the vote, responsible owner, milestones, reporting date, and any conditions attached to approval.
Adapt this framework to your organization’s size, governance requirements, and local context. Review consequential decisions with your team.