Business First Bancshares (BFST) Proxy filing summary

Executive summary

• The 2026 annual meeting is scheduled for May 21, 2026, with both in-person and virtual attendance options available to shareholders.

• Shareholders will vote on the election of 16 directors, an advisory say-on-pay proposal, and the ratification of Forvis Mazars, LLP as the independent auditor for 2026.

• Proxy materials, including the 2025 Annual Report and Form 10-K, are available online, and shareholders are encouraged to vote electronically.

• The board recommends voting in favor of all proposals and nominees.

Voting matters and shareholder proposals

• Election of 16 directors to serve until the 2027 annual meeting.

• Advisory vote on executive compensation (say-on-pay proposal).

• Ratification of Forvis Mazars, LLP as independent registered public accounting firm for 2026.

• Shareholders may submit proposals for the 2027 meeting following SEC and bylaw procedures.

Board of directors and corporate governance

• Board will consist of 16 members post-meeting, with a mix of experienced professionals from banking, business, and community leadership.

• Board diversity matrix: 14 male, 3 female directors; representation includes African American, Asian, and Hispanic/Latinx backgrounds.

• All directors except the CEO are independent under Nasdaq and SEC rules.

• Board committees include Audit, Compensation, and Nominating/Corporate Governance, each with independent members and formal charters.

• Corporate Governance Guidelines and Code of Business Conduct and Ethics are in place and publicly available.