The North Carolina Nonemployee Director Stock Option Plan of Inner Laboratories, Inc. is a compensation program designed specifically for the nonemployee directors of the company who contribute their expertise and guidance in the decision-making process. This stock option plan serves as a tool to attract and retain qualified individuals for the crucial role of a director. Under this plan, the nonemployee directors are granted stock options, which provide them with the right to purchase a certain number of shares of Inner Laboratories, Inc. stock at a predetermined price. These stock options typically have a vesting period, during which the director must fulfill specific requirements or conditions to exercise the options. The North Carolina Nonemployee Director Stock Option Plan includes several types of stock options that can be granted to directors. These types may include: 1. Non-Qualified Stock Options (SOS): SOS are a common type of stock option granted to nonemployee directors. They offer flexibility in terms of exercise price and tax consequences, as they are typically subject to ordinary income tax upon exercise. 2. Incentive Stock Options (SOS): SOS are another type of stock option that may be granted to nonemployee directors under this plan. SOS have special tax advantages, as they can potentially be subject to capital gains tax rates rather than ordinary income tax rates upon exercise. 3. Restricted Stock Units (RSS): While not technically stock options, RSS are a form of equity-based compensation that may also be offered to nonemployee directors. RSS represents a promise to deliver shares of stock to the director at a future date, usually upon meeting certain vesting conditions. 4. Performance-Based Stock Options: Inner Laboratories, Inc. may also incorporate performance-based stock options into their Nonemployee Director Stock Option Plan. These options are granted based on achievement of specific goals or financial performance metrics, providing an additional incentive for directors to contribute to the company's success. In conclusion, the North Carolina Nonemployee Director Stock Option Plan of Inner Laboratories, Inc. is an essential tool to attract and retain qualified nonemployee directors. By offering various types of stock options, such as SOS, SOS, RSS, and performance-based options, the plan provides the directors with the opportunity to benefit from the company's growth and performance, while aligning their interests with those of the shareholders.