Finward Bancorp (FNWD) Proxy filing summary

Executive summary

• Annual Meeting scheduled for May 21, 2026, to be held virtually, with voting on directors, auditor ratification, and executive compensation proposals.

• Shareholders of record as of March 20, 2026, are eligible to vote; 4,330,486 shares of common stock outstanding.

• Proxy materials, annual report, and 10-K are available online for review.

Voting matters and shareholder proposals

• Election of three directors for three-year terms expiring in 2029.

• Ratification of Forvis Mazars, LLP as independent auditors for 2026.

• Advisory (non-binding) vote on executive compensation (Say on Pay).

• No other shareholder proposals expected as the deadline has passed.

• Shareholder proposals for 2027 must be submitted by December 3, 2026, for inclusion in next year’s proxy.

Board of directors and corporate governance

• Board consists of 10 members, divided into three classes with staggered terms.

• Jennifer R. Evans to become Chairperson after the 2026 meeting, succeeding Joel Gorelick.

• Board committees (Audit, Compensation, Nominating, Risk) are composed solely of independent directors.

• Board diversity matrix: 4 female, 6 male directors; representation includes African American, Asian, and White backgrounds.

• Directors are subject to stock ownership guidelines and a code of ethics.