The Mecklenburg North Carolina Stock Option and Award Plan is a comprehensive program designed to incentivize and reward employees of companies operating in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. This plan allows employees to receive company stock options and various awards as a form of compensation. The main objective of the Mecklenburg North Carolina Stock Option and Award Plan is to attract and retain talented individuals by motivating and aligning their interests with the long-term success of the company. It provides an opportunity for employees to share in the company's growth and performance, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and dedication. There are several types of stock options and awards offered under this plan: 1. Stock Options: Employees are granted the right to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, known as the exercise price. These options typically have a specific vesting period, during which the employee needs to fulfill certain conditions, such as continued employment, to exercise the options. Once exercised, employees can either hold the stock or sell it for potential profit. 2. Restricted Stock Units (RSS): RSS are similar to stock options but with a slight difference. Instead of granting the right to purchase shares, RSS provide the employee with a certain number of company shares outright, subject to a vesting period. Once the vesting conditions are met, the employee receives the shares as regular stock. 3. Performance Shares: This type of award is granted based on predetermined performance metrics set by the company. If the employee achieves these targets, they are rewarded with company stock or cash equivalent to the stock's value. Performance shares align employee performance with the organization's goals and can act as a performance-driven incentive. 4. Restricted Stock Awards: Similar to RSS, restricted stock awards provide employees with actual company shares upfront. However, these shares are subject to various restrictions such as limited transferability or forfeiture rights until certain vesting conditions are met. The Mecklenburg North Carolina Stock Option and Award Plan offers flexibility in designing the awards to suit the company's specific needs. It can be customized to include performance criteria tied to financial goals, tenure milestones, or any other metrics deemed appropriate. By implementing this plan, employers in Mecklenburg County can attract and retain talent by providing employees with a stake in the company's success. It encourages loyalty and motivates employees to work towards achieving corporate objectives, ultimately benefiting both the individual and the organization.