The Key to High-Impact Portfolio Reviews: A Great Agenda

Nick Kramer

Portfolio reviews aren’t just check-ins — they’re decision-making engines. Without a clear agenda, calls can drift into endless updates with no clear next steps. The right structure keeps discussions focused, data-driven, and primed for action.

At Visible, we’ve seen hundreds of firms use a similar framework to turn portfolio reviews into strategic power hours. Here’s how:

1. Kick Off with Clarity

Open with the meeting focus — quarterly performance, capital allocation, operational health. State key decisions needed (follow-ons, exits, support). Cover quick big-picture updates (fundraising, LP news, major hires).

2. Fund Performance at a Glance

Review IRR, DPI, TVPI vs. benchmarks. Check portfolio construction and reserves to spot concentration risks. Flag diversification gaps and emerging threats.

3. Company Deep Dives

For each company:

  • Key financials — revenue, burn, runway.
  • Market moves — product launches, partnerships, competitive shifts, regulations.
  • Customer health — acquisition, retention, churn, NPS.
  • Team stability — leadership changes, key hires.
  • Capital & strategy needs — funding runway, follow-on potential.

4. Cross-Portfolio Wins & Challenges

Spot patterns and shared roadblocks. Launch value-add programs — hiring support, sales intros, shared services. Share success stories to replicate wins.

5. Strategy & Decisions

Lock in follow-on investments and exit plans. Adjust fund strategy where needed. Address underperformers head-on.

6. Clear Action Items

Assign owners and deadlines. Set communication plans for LPs and internal teams.

Use the Agenda

A great agenda turns portfolio reviews from information dumps into action plans. It ensures you leave with clarity, accountability, and momentum.

Download our VC Portfolio Review Agenda to start running sharper, faster, more effective meetings.