IPO University

The composition of the Board of Directors is particularly critical for an IPO. Typically, a board is composed of inside and outside directors. Inside directors could be management, significant shareholders, venture capitalists, vendors and relatives. Outside directors have no underlying financial or personal relationship with the company that could create a conflict of interest and are on the board for their experience, business judgment and contacts. Outside directors may own stock, but are not large shareholders. Investors should look for a board that has at least two outside directors. Typically, companies add their first independent directors in preparation for an IPO.