by Jini Stolk
Everyone gets excited about the prospect of a short and sweet (concise and incisive) Annual General Meeting. The legally required business of an AGM is straightforward, often a bit dull, and rarely adds fireworks to an event featuring activities such as donor recognition, awards, new program announcements or workshops.
An organization I chair recently decided to include our AGM within a conference program, but wrap it up in a grand total of 8 minutes. It was tremendously successful – although I have to admit that our meeting actually clocked in at 8 minutes, 40 seconds; we’re planning to cut the chat and do better next time!
As this was our first AGM, there were no previous minutes or financial audit to approve; a two-page annual report was distributed at the meeting and emailed to all members. Thanks to Cathy Taylor of the Ontario Nonprofit Network and
Marg Stanowski of Operation Springboard for sharing their time-saving templates.
An 8 Minute AGM Agenda: with detailed script and notes
1. Welcome and Call to Order
2. Approval of AGM Agenda
3. Approval of By-Law No. 1
4. Election of Directors
5. Appointment of the Auditor
6. Closing Remarks & Adjournment
