On this checklist1.Identity and Capitalization (0 / 5 checks)
Reviewer Checklist

NVCA Certificate of Incorporation Reviewer Checklist

A clause-by-clause checklist for the NVCA amended and restated charter, covering capitalization, preferred economics, protective provisions, conversion, redemption, governance, and filing, with citations to the model and its drafting notes.

Authorities relied on3primary sources2other sources
About this checklist
Editor
  • Lawyer
  • Harvard Law '18 (J.D.)
  • MIT '13 (S.B.)
  • Former Ropes & Gray (6 yrs)
  • Admitted in NY
License
CC BY 4.0

0 of 5 checked

Identity and Capitalization

Review against the October 2025 NVCA charter. See the practice guide for choices and consequences; model examples do not establish market prevalence.

1.1Corporate identity and restatement historyRequired (MUST)

Confirm the present name, original name if changed, and original filing date against the existing Delaware charter. Use an amended-and-restated heading and reconcile the introductory certification with Article First.

1.2Registered office, agent, and corporate purposeRequired (MUST)

Check the Delaware registered office and registered agent against the filing instructions. Confirm Article Third states the intended corporate purpose and that the instrument is tailored to a Delaware stock corporation.

1.3Authorized shares, classes, and seriesRequired (MUST)

Reconcile total authorized shares to the sum of the classes, and confirm each class’s share count, par value or no-par election, and series designation. Resolve every bracket; distinguish separate classes from series within a class, particularly for multiple common-stock voting classes.

1.4Capitalization supports the financingRecommended (SHOULD)

Reconcile the common authorization with outstanding common, preferred conversion shares, outstanding options and warrants, and the agreed unallocated equity pool. Include the effects of convertible instruments and any dividend mechanics that require shares. Compare the preferred authorization with the shares issued at all contemplated closings.

Source scope: The common-share calculation follows model note 5. Comparing preferred authorization with all planned closings is reviewer synthesis; the filed reserve covenant does not establish that this reconciliation occurred.

1.5Common voting and class-vote electionsRecommended (SHOULD)

Check the one-vote baseline and deliberately resolve the provisions on preferred-only amendments, changes to authorized common shares, and cumulative voting. Ask counsel to reconcile any removal of a common class vote with the approvals required to adopt that change; identify California contacts for separate analysis.

Source scope: Seaport illustrates common voting and amendment elections; it supplies no cumulative-voting election. That subchoice and the California analysis come from the model and its notes, not a second filed example.

Sources for this section

Primary source · Primary law

A.3 8 Del. C. § 102(a)(2)–(3) — registered office, agent and purpose

The certificate must state its Delaware registered office, registered agent and business or purposes.

(2) The address (which shall be stated in accordance with § 131(c) of this title) of the corporation’s registered office in this State, and the name of its registered agent at such address; (3) The nature of the business or purposes to be conducted or promoted. It shall be sufficient to state, either alone or with other businesses or purposes, that the purpose of the corporation is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the General Corporation Law of Delaware, and by such statement all lawful acts and activities shall be within the purposes of the corporation, except for express limitations, if any;

See 8 Del. C. § 102(a)(2)–(3).

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

A.1 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — introductory certification

The restated charter identifies the corporation and its original incorporation history.

That the name of this corporation is [_______________], and that this corporation was originally incorporated pursuant to the General Corporation Law on [________ __, 20__] [under the name [_______________]].

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), introductory certification; drafting notes 2, 3.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

A.4 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, capitalization

The form states total authorized shares, each class, par values, and the preferred series designation.

The total number of shares of all classes of stock which the Corporation shall have the authority to issue is [______]. The Corporation has [two] classes of stock, referred to as Common Stock and Preferred Stock. There are [_____] shares of authorized Common Stock, $[_____] par value per share (“Common Stock”), and [______] shares of authorized Preferred Stock, $[______] par value per share (“Preferred Stock”), [all] of which are hereby designated as “Series A Preferred Stock”.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, capitalization; drafting notes 4, 5.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

A.6 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.3.2

The charter commits the corporation to reserve enough common shares for conversion.

The Corporation shall at all times when the Preferred Stock shall be outstanding, reserve and keep available out of its authorized but unissued capital stock, for the purpose of effecting the conversion of the Preferred Stock, such number of its duly authorized shares of Common Stock as shall from time to time be sufficient to effect the conversion of all outstanding Preferred Stock; and if at any time the number of authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock shall not be sufficient to effect the conversion of all then outstanding shares of the Preferred Stock, the Corporation shall take such corporate action as may be necessary to increase its authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock to such number of shares as shall be sufficient for such purposes, including, without limitation, engaging in best efforts to obtain the requisite stockholder approval of any necessary amendment to this Certificate of Incorporation.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.3.2.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

A.9 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part A, § 2

The common-stock voting clause includes optional limits on common class votes and a cumulative-voting election.

Except as otherwise provided herein or by applicable law, the holders of the Common Stock shall be entitled to one vote for each share of Common Stock held as of the applicable record date for each meeting of stockholders (and written actions in lieu of meetings)[; provided, however, that, except as otherwise required by law, holders of Common Stock, as such, shall not be entitled to vote on any amendment to this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (this “Certificate of Incorporation”) that relates solely to the terms of one or more outstanding series of Preferred Stock if the holders of such affected series are entitled, either separately or together with the holders of one or more other such series, to vote thereon pursuant to this Certificate of Incorporation or pursuant to the General Corporation Law]. [There shall be no cumulative voting.] [The number of authorized shares of Common Stock may be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares thereof then outstanding) by (in addition to any vote of the holders of one or more series of Preferred Stock that may be required by the terms of this Certificate of Incorporation) the affirmative vote of the holders of shares of capital stock of the Corporation representing a majority of the votes represented by all outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote, irrespective of the provisions of Section 242(b)(2) of the General Corporation Law.]

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part A, § 2; drafting notes 6, 7, 8.

Primary source · Primary law

A.2 8 Del. C. § 245(c) — Restated certificate identity

Delaware requires the restated heading and the present name, original name if changed, and original filing date.

A restated certificate of incorporation shall be specifically designated as such in its heading. It shall state, either in its heading or in an introductory paragraph, the corporation’s present name, and, if it has been changed, the name under which it was originally incorporated, and the date of filing of its original certificate of incorporation with the Secretary of State.

See 8 Del. C. § 245(c).

Primary source · Primary law

A.5 8 Del. C. § 102(a)(4) — Authorized capital

For multiple classes, Delaware requires aggregate and per-class authorized shares and the applicable par-value or no-par terms.

If the corporation is to be authorized to issue more than 1 class of stock, the certificate of incorporation shall set forth the total number of shares of all classes of stock which the corporation shall have authority to issue and the number of shares of each class and shall specify each class the shares of which are to be without par value and each class the shares of which are to have par value and the par value of the shares of each such class.

See 8 Del. C. § 102(a)(4).

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

A.12 Seaport Therapeutics charter — Article First

The filed charter identifies Seaport Therapeutics as the corporation.

The name of this corporation is Seaport Therapeutics, Inc. (the “ Corporation ”).

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate, Article First; executed October 17, 2024; filed April 10, 2026, Form S-1, Exhibit 3.1.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

A.7 Seaport filed charter — 4.3.2

The filed charter reserves common shares for preferred conversion.

4.3.2 Reservation of Shares . The Corporation shall at all times when the Preferred Stock shall be outstanding, reserve and keep available out of its authorized but unissued capital stock, for the purpose of effecting the conversion of the Preferred Stock, such number of its duly authorized shares of Common Stock as shall from time to time be sufficient to effect the conversion of all outstanding Preferred Stock; and if at any time the number of authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock shall not be sufficient to effect the conversion of all then outstanding shares of the Preferred Stock, the Corporation shall take such corporate action as may be necessary to increase its authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock to such number of shares as shall be sufficient for such purposes, including, without limitation, engaging in best efforts to obtain the requisite stockholder approval of any necessary amendment to this Certificate of Incorporation. Before taking any action that would cause an adjustment reducing the Conversion Price for any series of Preferred Stock below the then par value of the shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of such series of Preferred Stock, the Corporation will take any corporate action which may, in the opinion of its counsel, be necessary in order that the Corporation may validly and legally issue fully paid and non-assessable shares of Common Stock at such adjusted Conversion Price.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 4.3.2. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

A.10 Seaport filed charter — Article Fourth, Part A, § 2

The filed charter gives common holders one vote per share, subject to its stated qualifications.

2. Voting . Except as otherwise provided herein or by applicable law, the holders of the Common Stock shall be entitled to one vote for each share of Common Stock held as of the applicable record date for each meeting of stockholders (and written actions in lieu of meetings); provided , however , that, except as otherwise required by law, holders of Common Stock, as such, shall not be entitled to vote on any amendment to this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (this “ Certificate of Incorporation ”) that relates solely to the terms of one or more outstanding series of Preferred Stock if the holders of such affected series are entitled, either separately or together with the holders of one or more other such series, to vote thereon pursuant to this Certificate of Incorporation or pursuant to the General Corporation Law. The number of authorized shares of Common Stock may be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares thereof then outstanding) by (in addition to any vote of the holders of one or more series of Preferred Stock that may be required by the terms of this Certificate of Incorporation) the affirmative vote of the holders of shares of capital stock of the Corporation representing a majority of the votes represented by all outstanding shares of capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote, irrespective of the provisions of Section 242(b)(2) of the General Corporation Law.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), Article Fourth, Part A, § 2. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

A.8 NVCA model — drafting note 5

The model note includes options, the stock-plan pool, preferred conversion, warrants, convertible notes and relevant dividends in common authorization planning.

The number of authorized shares of Common Stock should be high enough to cover all outstanding shares of Common Stock, plus all shares of Common Stock issuable (i) upon exercise of outstanding options and all other uncommitted shares of stock available for grant under the stock plan pool, (ii) upon the conversion of shares of designated Preferred Stock, including, if applicable, accrued dividends, (iii) upon the exercise or conversion of all other securities exercisable for or convertible into Common Stock (e.g., warrants and convertible promissory notes), and (iv) within a reasonable time frame in respect of any compounding dividend, if applicable. Consideration should also be given to authorizing additional shares of Common Stock to permit the Board of Directors to issue such stock in connection with future events, such as acquisitions of other companies or businesses or in lending transactions. Note, however, that many venture capital investors will not permit the authorization of significant amounts of (or even any) additional shares of Common Stock.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), drafting note 5, first paragraph.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

A.11 NVCA model — drafting note 7

The model note offers a cumulative-voting alternative conditional on California Section 2115 applicability.

See the introductory notes regarding Section 2115 of the California Corporations Code. Alternative provision: “No person entitled to vote at an election for directors may cumulate votes to which such person is entitled, unless, at the time of such election, the Corporation is subject to Section 2115 of the California Corporations Code. During such time or times that the Corporation is subject to Section 2115(b) of the California Corporations Code, every stockholder entitled to vote at an election for directors may cumulate such stockholder’s votes and give one candidate a number of votes equal to the number of directors to be elected multiplied by the number of votes to which such stockholder’s shares are otherwise entitled, or distribute the stockholder’s votes on the same principle among as many candidates as such stockholder desires. No stockholder, however, shall be entitled to so cumulate such stockholder’s votes unless (i) the names of such candidate or candidates have been placed in nomination prior to the voting, and (ii) the stockholder has given notice at the meeting, prior to the voting, of such stockholder’s intention to cumulate such stockholder’s votes. If any stockholder has given proper notice to cumulate votes, all stockholders may cumulate their votes for any candidates who have been properly placed in nomination.” Under cumulative voting, the candidates receiving the highest number of votes, up to the number of directors to be elected, are elected.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), drafting note 7. This is model drafting guidance, not a determination that California law applies to a particular corporation.

0 of 4 checked

Dividends and Liquidation Preference

2.1One coherent dividend alternativeRecommended (SHOULD)

Select and reconcile the agreed dividend structure: shared dividends only, a specified noncumulative preference, or accruing dividends. Remove the unused alternatives. Check the rate, Original Issue Price, annual payment logic, and priority among series against the term sheet.

2.2Accrual, compounding, and payment eventsOptional (MAY)

If accruing dividends are negotiated, specify the rate or amount, accrual start, and any compounding base and interval. A fixed dollar accrual does not itself compound. Reconcile treatment on liquidation, redemption, and conversion, and check that reciprocal dividend provisions across series do not create circular payment obligations.

2.3Preference multiple and participationRecommended (SHOULD)

Check the preference multiple, Original Issue Price, and unpaid-dividend treatment. Select nonparticipating or participating preferred deliberately; if participation is capped, state the cap and preserve the agreed comparison with conversion proceeds. Model payouts below the preference, above the preference, and above any cap.

2.4Seniority and shortfall allocationRecommended (SHOULD)

For more than one preferred series, verify the negotiated seniority, pari passu sharing, and shortfall allocation throughout the waterfall. Run the as-converted comparison across all affected series rather than assuming every holder benefits from the same election. Reconcile the residual common distribution with the selected participation alternative.

Sources for this section

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

B.1 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 1, noncumulative alternative

The noncumulative alternative makes the specified dividend payable only when declared by the board.

The holders of then outstanding shares of Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive, only when, as and if declared by the Board of Directors, out of any funds and assets legally available therefor, dividends equal to the applicable Dividend Amount (as defined below) for each share of Preferred Stock, prior and in preference to any declaration or payment of any other dividend (other than dividends on shares of Common Stock payable in shares of Common Stock) during the same calendar year.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 1, noncumulative alternative; drafting notes 9, 10, 11, 12.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

B.3 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 1, cumulative alternative

The cumulative alternative accrues a stated amount per share and requires coordination with liquidation and redemption terms.

From and after the date of the issuance of any shares of Preferred Stock, dividends at the rate per annum of $[___] per share shall accrue on such shares of Preferred Stock (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Preferred Stock) (the “Accruing Dividends”).

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 1, cumulative alternative; drafting notes 13, 14, 15.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

B.4 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 2.1, nonparticipating alternative

The nonparticipating alternative compares the preference with the as-converted payment.

In the event of (a) any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the holders of shares of each series of Preferred Stock then outstanding shall be entitled to be paid out of the assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders, and (b) a Deemed Liquidation Event (as defined below), the holders of shares of each series of Preferred Stock then outstanding shall be entitled to be paid out of the consideration payable to stockholders in such Deemed Liquidation Event or out of the Available Proceeds (as defined below), as applicable, on a pari passu basis based on their respective Liquidation Amounts (as defined below) and before any payment shall be made to the holders of Common Stock by reason of their ownership thereof, an amount per share of each such series of Preferred Stock equal to the greater of (i) [__ times] the applicable Original Issue Price, plus any dividends declared but unpaid thereon, or (ii) such amount per share as would have been payable had all shares of such series of Preferred Stock (and all shares of all other series of Preferred Stock that would receive a larger distribution per share if such series of Preferred Stock were converted into Common Stock) been converted into Common Stock pursuant to Section 4 immediately prior to such liquidation, dissolution, winding up or Deemed Liquidation Event (the amount payable pursuant to this sentence is hereinafter referred to, for each series of Preferred Stock, as applicable, as the “Liquidation Amount”). If upon any such liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or Deemed Liquidation Event, the assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders shall be insufficient to pay the holders of shares of Preferred Stock the full amount to which they shall be entitled under this Section 2.1, the holders of shares of Preferred Stock shall share ratably in any distribution of the assets available for distribution in proportion to the respective amounts which would otherwise be payable in respect of the shares held by them upon such distribution if all amounts payable on or with respect to such shares were paid in full.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 2.1, nonparticipating alternative; drafting notes 16, 17, 18.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

B.2 Seaport filed charter — Article Fourth, Part B, § 1

The filed charter conditions dividends to other classes on preferred dividend participation.

The Corporation shall not declare, pay or set aside any dividends on shares of any other class or series of capital stock of the Corporation (other than dividends on shares of Common Stock payable in shares of Common Stock) unless (in addition to the obtaining of any consents required elsewhere in this Certificate of Incorporation) the holders of the Preferred Stock then outstanding shall, on a pari passu basis, first receive, or simultaneously receive, a dividend on each outstanding share of Preferred Stock in an amount at least equal to (i) in the case of a dividend on Common Stock, the product of (A) the dividend declared, paid or set aside on such Common Stock and (B) the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of a share of such 2 Preferred Stock; (ii) in the case of a dividend on a class or series of capital stock that is convertible into Common Stock, the product of (A) the dividend declared, paid or set aside per share of such class or series of capital stock and (B) the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of a share of such Preferred Stock, divided by the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of a share of such class or series of capital stock; or (iii) in the case of a dividend on any class or series that is not convertible into Common Stock, the product of (A) the amount of the dividend payable on each share of such class or series of capital stock divi d ed by the original issuance price of such class or series of capital stock (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to such class or series) and (B) the applicable Original Issue Price (as defined below); provided that, if the Corporation declares, pays or sets aside, on the same date, a dividend on shares of more than one class or series of capital stock of the Corporation, the dividend payable to the holders of Preferred Stock pursuant to this Section 1 shall be calculated based upon the dividend on the class or series of capital stock that would result in the highest Preferred Stock dividend for the applicable series of Preferred Stock, The “ Original Issue Price ” shall mean, with respect to the Series A-1 Preferred Stock, $0.10 per share, with respect to the Series A-2 Preferred Stock, $3.80 per share, and with respect to the Series B Preferred Stock, $4.75 per share, subject to, in each case, appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the applicable Preferred Stock.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), Article Fourth, Part B, § 1. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

B.5 Seaport filed charter — 2.1–2.2

The filed charter specifies preferred liquidation payments.

2.1 Preferential Payments to Holders of Preferred Stock . In the event of (a) any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the holders of shares of each series of Preferred Stock then outstanding shall be entitled to be paid out of the assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders, and (b) a Deemed Liquidation Event (as defined below), the holders of shares of each series of Preferred Stock then outstanding shall be entitled to be paid out of the consideration payable to stockholders in such Deemed Liquidation Event or out of the Available Proceeds (as defined below), as applicable, on a pari passu basis based on their respective Liquidation Amounts (as defined below) and before any payment shall be made to the holders of Common Stock by reason of their ownership thereof, an amount per share of each such series of Preferred Stock equal to the greater of (i) the Original Issue Price for such series, plus any dividends declared but unpaid thereon, and (ii) such amount per share as would have been payable had all shares of such series of Preferred Stock (and all shares of all other series of Preferred Stock that would receive a larger distribution per share if such series of Preferred Stock were converted into Common Stock) been converted into Common Stock pursuant to Section 4 immediately prior to such liquidation, dissolution, winding up or Deemed Liquidation Event (the amount payable pursuant to this sentence is hereinafter referred to, for each series of Preferred Stock, as applicable, as the “ Liquidation Amount ”). If upon any such liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or Deemed Liquidation Event, the assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders shall be insufficient to pay the holders of shares of Preferred Stock the full amount to which they shall be entitled under this Section 2.1 , the holders of shares of Preferred Stock shall share ratably in any distribution of the assets available for distribution in proportion to the respective amounts which would otherwise be payable in respect of the shares held by them upon such distribution if all amounts payable on or with respect to such shares were paid in full.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 2.1–2.2. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

B.6 Seaport filed charter — §§ 2.1–2.2

The filed charter specifies pari passu preferred payments, a ratable shortfall, the as-converted comparison and the residual common distribution.

2.1 Preferential Payments to Holders of Preferred Stock . In the event of (a) any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the holders of shares of each series of Preferred Stock then outstanding shall be entitled to be paid out of the assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders, and (b) a Deemed Liquidation Event (as defined below), the holders of shares of each series of Preferred Stock then outstanding shall be entitled to be paid out of the consideration payable to stockholders in such Deemed Liquidation Event or out of the Available Proceeds (as defined below), as applicable, on a pari passu basis based on their respective Liquidation Amounts (as defined below) and before any payment shall be made to the holders of Common Stock by reason of their ownership thereof, an amount per share of each such series of Preferred Stock equal to the greater of (i) the Original Issue Price for such series, plus any dividends declared but unpaid thereon, and (ii) such amount per share as would have been payable had all shares of such series of Preferred Stock (and all shares of all other series of Preferred Stock that would receive a larger distribution per share if such series of Preferred Stock were converted into Common Stock) been converted into Common Stock pursuant to Section 4 immediately prior to such liquidation, dissolution, winding up or Deemed Liquidation Event (the amount payable pursuant to this sentence is hereinafter referred to, for each series of Preferred Stock, as applicable, as the “ Liquidation Amount ”). If upon any such liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or Deemed Liquidation Event, the assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders shall be insufficient to pay the holders of shares of Preferred Stock the full amount to which they shall be entitled under this Section 2.1 , the holders of shares of Preferred Stock shall share ratably in any distribution of the assets available for distribution in proportion to the respective amounts which would otherwise be payable in respect of the shares held by them upon such distribution if all amounts payable on or with respect to such shares were paid in full. 3 2.2 Payments to Holders of Common Stock . In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, after the payment in full of all Liquidation Amounts required to be paid to the holders of shares of Preferred Stock, the remaining assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders or, in the case of a Deemed Liquidation Event, the consideration not payable to the holders of shares of Preferred Stock pursuant to Section 2.1 or the remaining Available Proceeds, as the case may be, shall be distributed among the holders of shares of Common Stock, pro rata based on the number of shares of Common Stock held by each such holder.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), §§ 2.1–2.2. These clauses illustrate the identified mechanics, not a completed transaction review or market prevalence.

0 of 7 checked

Deemed Liquidation Events

3.1Transaction triggers and continuity exceptionRecommended (SHOULD)

Check the merger, consolidation, statutory conversion, transfer of the corporation, domestication, continuance, and asset-disposition triggers in § 2.3.1. Resolve the continuity-of-ownership exception and whether it tests voting power. Distinguish a transfer of the corporation from a stockholder’s transfer of shares; the October 2025 note specifically flags this distinction.

3.2Business sales, licenses, and subsidiariesRecommended (SHOULD)

Review the asset-sale and exclusive-license language against the company’s actual business. Flag a proposed sale that leaves material intellectual property behind: NVCA’s note suggests considering a business-or-assets formulation where an assets-only test could miss the intended transaction. Check the subsidiary-sale and wholly-owned-subsidiary exceptions.

3.3Ordinary financing exclusionOptional (MAY)

Consider the October 2025 clarification that a bona fide preferred equity financing alone is not a Deemed Liquidation Event. If adopted, reconcile it with the transaction triggers and the financing’s actual structure.

3.4Requisite Holders and waiver scopeRecommended (SHOULD)

Fill the Requisite Holders threshold and calculate which holders can satisfy it after anti-dilution adjustments. Match the intended class and series protections. Distinguish waiving deemed-liquidation treatment from agreeing to a reduced preference; NVCA’s notes direct the latter negotiation to a charter amendment before the transaction becomes effective.

3.5Transaction allocation and retained proceedsRecommended (SHOULD)

Check that the transaction document applies the selected waterfall. If the optional post-disposition redemption mechanism is retained, calendar its notice, holder-request, and redemption deadlines and address any extension for contractual distribution restrictions. Preserve the lawful-distribution condition and reconcile this mechanism with the separate § 6 redemption election.

3.6Valuation of noncash considerationRecommended (SHOULD)

Check who values property, rights, or securities and whether preferred-director approval is required. If an investor objection or appraisal process is negotiated, specify the appointment process, costs, timing, and whether the appraisal is binding.

3.7Escrow, holdbacks, and contingent paymentsRecommended (SHOULD)

Resolve whether escrow and indemnity holdbacks are Initial Consideration or Additional Consideration. Model both release and forfeiture, and reapply the waterfall when earn-outs are paid while crediting prior distributions. NVCA’s footnote explains why treating escrow as Initial Consideration can leave preferred holders below their preference if the escrow is forfeited.

Sources for this section

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

C.1 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 2.3.1

The deemed-liquidation definition sets transaction triggers, holder waiver, and continuity exceptions.

Definition. Each of the following events shall be considered a “Deemed Liquidation Event” unless the holders of at least [specify percentage], of the outstanding shares of Preferred Stock, voting together as a single class on an as-converted to Common Stock basis (the “Requisite Holders”), elect otherwise by written notice sent to the Corporation at least 10 days prior to the effective date of any such event: a merger, consolidation, statutory conversion, transfer of the Corporation, domestication, or continuance in which the Corporation is a constituent party or a subsidiary of the Corporation is a constituent party and the Corporation issues shares of its capital stock pursuant to such merger, consolidation, statutory conversion, transfer of the Corporation, domestication, or continuance, except any such merger, consolidation, statutory conversion, transfer of the Corporation, domestication, or continuance involving the Corporation or a subsidiary in which the shares of capital stock of the Corporation outstanding immediately prior to such merger, consolidation, statutory conversion, transfer of the Corporation, domestication, or continuance continue to represent, or are converted into or exchanged for shares of capital stock or other equity interests that represent, immediately following such merger, consolidation, statutory conversion, transfer of the Corporation, domestication, or continuance, [a majority[, by voting power,]] of the capital stock or other equity interests of (1) the surviving or resulting corporation or entity; or (2) if the surviving or resulting corporation or entity is a wholly owned subsidiary of another corporation or entity immediately following such merger, consolidation, statutory conversion, transfer of the Corporation, domestication, or continuance, the parent corporation or entity of such surviving or resulting corporation or entity; or (i) the sale, lease, transfer, exclusive license or other disposition, in a single transaction or series of related transactions, by the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation of all or substantially all the assets of the Corporation and its subsidiaries taken as a whole, or (ii) the sale, lease, transfer, exclusive license or other disposition (whether by merger, consolidation, statutory conversion, transfer of the Corporation, domestication, continuance or otherwise, and whether in a single transaction or a series of related transactions) of one or more subsidiaries of the Corporation if substantially all of the assets of the Corporation and its subsidiaries taken as a whole are held by such subsidiary or subsidiaries, except where such sale, lease, transfer, exclusive license or other disposition is to a wholly owned subsidiary of the Corporation.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 2.3.1; drafting notes 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

C.4 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 2.3.1

The optional clarification excludes a bona fide preferred equity financing, by itself, from deemed liquidation treatment.

[Notwithstanding anything in Section 2.3.1 to the contrary, in no event shall the sale and issuance by the Corporation of Preferred Stock in a bona fide equity financing of the Corporation, in and of itself, be a Deemed Liquidation Event.]

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 2.3.1; drafting note 29.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

C.6 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 2.3.2(a)

For the specified transaction, the transaction document must allocate consideration under the charter waterfall.

The Corporation shall not have the power to effect a Deemed Liquidation Event referred to in Section 2.3.1(a)(i) unless the agreement or plan with respect to such transaction, or terms of such transaction (any such agreement, plan or terms, the “Transaction Document”), provide that the consideration payable to the stockholders of the Corporation in such Deemed Liquidation Event shall be allocated to the holders of capital stock of the Corporation in accordance with Sections 2.1 and 2.2.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 2.3.2(a).

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

C.7 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 2.3.2(b)

The optional proceeds-redemption mechanism sets deadlines and respects restrictions on distributions.

[In the event of a Deemed Liquidation Event referred to in Section 2.3.1(a)(ii) or 2.3.1(b), if the Corporation does not effect a dissolution of the Corporation under the General Corporation Law within 90 days after such Deemed Liquidation Event, then (i) the Corporation shall send a written notice to each holder of Preferred Stock no later than the 90th day after the Deemed Liquidation Event advising such holders of their right (and the requirements to be met to secure such right) pursuant to the terms of the following clause (ii) to require the redemption of such shares of Preferred Stock, and (ii) if the Requisite Holders so request in a written instrument delivered to the Corporation not later than 120 days after such Deemed Liquidation Event, the Corporation shall use the consideration received by the Corporation for such Deemed Liquidation Event (net of any retained liabilities associated with the assets sold or technology licensed, any other expenses reasonably related to such Deemed Liquidation Event or any other expenses incident to the dissolution of the Corporation as provided herein, in each case as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors), together with any other assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders, all to the extent permitted by Delaware law governing distributions to stockholders (the “Available Proceeds”) on the 150th day after such Deemed Liquidation Event (the “DLE Redemption Date”), to redeem all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock at a price per share equal to the applicable Liquidation Amount; provided, that if the definitive agreements governing such Deemed Liquidation Event contain contingent indemnification obligations on the part of the Corporation and prohibit the Corporation from distributing all or a portion of the Available Proceeds while such indemnification obligations remain outstanding, then the DLE Redemption Date shall automatically be extended to the date that is ten business days following the date on which such prohibition expires.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 2.3.2(b).

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

C.10 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 2.3.3

The board values noncash consideration, with optional preferred-director approval.

The amount deemed paid or distributed to the holders of capital stock of the Corporation upon any such merger, consolidation, sale, transfer, exclusive license, other disposition or redemption shall be the cash or the value of the property, rights or securities to be paid or distributed to such holders pursuant to such Deemed Liquidation Event. The value of such property, rights or securities shall be determined in good faith by the Board of Directors[, including the approval of [at least one] Preferred Director (as defined herein)].

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 2.3.3; drafting note 30.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

C.12 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 2.3.4

The form addresses contingent payments and offers a choice for treating escrow and holdbacks.

In the event of a Deemed Liquidation Event pursuant to Section 2.3.1(a)(i), if any portion of the consideration payable to the stockholders of the Corporation is payable only upon satisfaction of contingencies (the “Additional Consideration”), the Transaction Document shall provide that (a) the portion of such consideration that is not Additional Consideration (such portion, the “Initial Consideration”) shall be allocated among the holders of capital stock of the Corporation in accordance with Sections 2.1 and 2.2 as if the Initial Consideration were the only consideration payable in connection with such Deemed Liquidation Event; and (b) any Additional Consideration which becomes payable to the stockholders of the Corporation upon satisfaction of such contingencies shall be allocated among the holders of capital stock of the Corporation in accordance with Sections 2.1 and 2.2 after taking into account the previous payment of the Initial Consideration as part of the same transaction. For the purposes of this Section 2.3.4, consideration placed into escrow or retained as a holdback to be available for satisfaction of indemnification or similar obligations in connection with such Deemed Liquidation Event shall be deemed to be [Initial Consideration] [Additional Consideration].

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 2.3.4; drafting note 31.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

C.2 Seaport filed charter — 2.3.1

The filed charter defines the holder election for deemed-liquidation treatment.

2.3.1 Definition . Each of the following events shall be considered a “ Deemed Liquidation Event ” unless (x) the holders of at least a majority of the outstanding shares of Preferred Stock, voting together as a single class on an as-converted to Common Stock basis, and (y) the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Series A-2 Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock, voting together as a single class on an as-converted to Common Stock basis, which majority must include at least one New Series B Investor (as defined in the Amended and Restated Investors’ Rights Agreement, dated on or about the Original Issue Date (as defined below), by and among the Corporation and the other parties thereto, as such agreement may be amended and/or restated from time to time (the “ Investors’ Rights Agreement ”)) (together, the “ Requisite Holders ”), elect otherwise by written notice sent to the Corporation at least 10 days prior to the effective date of any such event:

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 2.3.1. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

C.3 Seaport filed charter — 2.3.1(b)

The filed charter includes asset dispositions and exclusive licenses in its deemed-liquidation definition.

(b) (i) the sale, lease, transfer, exclusive license or other disposition, in a single transaction or series of related transactions, by the Corporation or any subsidiary of the Corporation of all or substantially all the assets of the Corporation and its subsidiaries taken as a whole, or (ii) the sale, lease, transfer, exclusive license or other disposition (whether by merger, consolidation, statutory conversion, domestication, continuance or otherwise, and whether in a single transaction or a series of related transactions) of one or more subsidiaries of the Corporation if substantially all of the assets of the Corporation and its subsidiaries taken as a whole are held by such subsidiary or subsidiaries, except where such sale, lease, transfer, exclusive license or other disposition is to a wholly owned subsidiary of the Corporation.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 2.3.1(b). This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

C.5 Seaport filed charter — 2.3.1

The filed charter specifies the holders and notice timing for electing out of deemed-liquidation treatment.

2.3.1 Definition . Each of the following events shall be considered a “ Deemed Liquidation Event ” unless (x) the holders of at least a majority of the outstanding shares of Preferred Stock, voting together as a single class on an as-converted to Common Stock basis, and (y) the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Series A-2 Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock, voting together as a single class on an as-converted to Common Stock basis, which majority must include at least one New Series B Investor (as defined in the Amended and Restated Investors’ Rights Agreement, dated on or about the Original Issue Date (as defined below), by and among the Corporation and the other parties thereto, as such agreement may be amended and/or restated from time to time (the “ Investors’ Rights Agreement ”)) (together, the “ Requisite Holders ”), elect otherwise by written notice sent to the Corporation at least 10 days prior to the effective date of any such event:

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 2.3.1. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

C.9 Seaport filed charter — § 2.3.2(a)–(b)

The filed charter coordinates transaction allocation with post-disposition redemption, notice and request deadlines, distribution limits and an indemnity-related extension.

2.3.2 Effecting a Deemed Liquidation Event . (a) The Corporation shall not have the power to effect a Deemed Liquidation Event referred to in Section 2.3.1(a)(i) unless the agreement or plan with respect to such transaction, or terms of such transaction (any such agreement, plan or terms, the “ Transaction Document ”), provide that the consideration payable to the stockholders of the Corporation in such Deemed Liquidation Event shall be allocated to the holders of capital stock of the Corporation in accordance with Sections 2.1 and 2.2 . (b) In the event of a Deemed Liquidation Event referred to in Section 2.3.1(a)(ii) or 2.3.1(b) , if the Corporation does not effect a dissolution of the Corporation under the General Corporation Law within 90 days after such Deemed Liquidation Event, then (i) the Corporation shall send a written notice to each holder of Preferred Stock no later than the 90th day after the Deemed Liquidation Event advising such holders of their right (and the requirements to be met to secure such right) to require the redemption of such shares of Preferred Stock, and (ii) if the Requisite Holders so request in a written instrument delivered to the Corporation not later than 120 days after such Deemed Liquidation Event, the Corporation shall use the consideration received by the Corporation for such Deemed Liquidation Event (net of any retained liabilities associated with the assets sold or technology licensed, any other expenses reasonably related to such Deemed Liquidation Event or any other expenses incident to the dissolution of the Corporation as provided herein, in each case as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors), together with any other assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders, all to the extent permitted by Delaware law governing distributions to stockholders (the “ Available Proceeds ”) on the 150th day after such Deemed Liquidation Event (the “ DLE Redemption Date ”), to redeem all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock at a price per share equal to the applicable Liquidation Amount; provided , that if the definitive agreements governing such Deemed Liquidation Event contain contingent indemnification obligations on the part of the Corporation and prohibit the Corporation from distributing all or a portion of the Available Proceeds while such indemnification obligations remain outstanding, then the DLE Redemption Date shall automatically be extended to the date that is ten business days following the date on which such prohibition expires. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event of a redemption pursuant to the preceding sentence, if the Available Proceeds are not sufficient to redeem all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock, the Corporation shall redeem a pro rata portion of each holder’s shares of Preferred Stock to the fullest extent of such Available Proceeds, based on the respective amounts which would otherwise be payable in respect of the shares to be redeemed if the Available Proceeds were sufficient to redeem all such shares, and shall redeem the remaining shares as soon as it may lawfully do so under Delaware law governing distributions to 5 stockholders. Prior to the distribution or redemption provided for in this Section 2.3.2(b) , the Corporation shall not expend or dissipate the Available Proceeds for any purpose, except to discharge expenses incurred in connection with such Deemed Liquidation Event. In connection with a distribution or redemption provided for in Section 2.3.2 , the Corporation shall send written notice of the redemption (the “ Redemption Notice ”) to each holder of record of Preferred Stock. Each Redemption Notice shall state: (i) the number of shares of Preferred Stock held by the holder that the Corporation shall redeem on the date specified in the Redemption Notice; (ii) the redemption date and the price per share at which the shares of Preferred Stock are being redeemed; and (iii) for holders of shares in certificated form, that the holder is to surrender to the Corporation, in the manner and at the place designated, his, her or its certificate or certificates representing the shares of Preferred Stock to be redeemed. If the Redemption Notice shall have been duly given, and if payment is tendered or deposited with an independent payment agent so as to be available therefor in a timely manner, then notwithstanding that any certificates evidencing any of the shares of Preferred Stock so called for redemption shall not have been surrendered, all rights with respect to such shares shall forthwith after the date terminate, except only the right of the holders to receive the payment without interest upon surrender of any such certificate or certificates therefor.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), § 2.3.2(a)–(b). These clauses illustrate the identified mechanics, not a completed transaction review or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

C.11 Seaport filed charter — 2.3.3

The filed charter addresses valuation of noncash consideration.

2.3.3 Amount Deemed Paid or Distributed . The amount deemed paid or distributed to the holders of capital stock of the Corporation upon any such merger, consolidation, sale, transfer, exclusive license, other disposition or redemption shall be the cash or the value of the property, rights or securities to be paid or distributed to such holders pursuant to such Deemed Liquidation Event. The value of such property, rights or securities shall be determined in good faith by the Board of Directors.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 2.3.3. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

C.13 Seaport filed charter — 2.3.4

The filed charter addresses allocation of contingent consideration.

2.3.4 Allocation of Escrow and Contingent Consideration . In the event of a Deemed Liquidation Event pursuant to Section 2.3.1(a)(i) , if any portion of the consideration payable to the stockholders of the Corporation is payable only upon satisfaction of contingencies (the “ Additional Consideration ”), the Transaction Document shall provide that (a) the portion of such consideration that is not Additional Consideration (such portion, the “ Initial Consideration ”) shall be allocated among the holders of capital stock of the Corporation in accordance with Sections 2.1 and 2.2 as if the Initial Consideration were the only consideration payable in connection with such Deemed Liquidation Event; and (b) any Additional Consideration which becomes payable to the stockholders of the Corporation upon satisfaction of such contingencies shall be allocated among the holders of capital stock of the Corporation in accordance with Sections 2.1 and 2.2 after taking into account the previous payment of the Initial Consideration as part of the same transaction. For the purposes of this Section 2.3.4 , consideration placed into escrow or retained as a holdback to be available for satisfaction of indemnification or similar obligations in connection with such Deemed Liquidation Event shall be deemed to be Additional Consideration.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 2.3.4. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

0 of 8 checked

Voting and Protective Provisions

4.1As-converted voting and record datesRecommended (SHOULD)

Reconcile the preferred voting calculation with the conversion provisions and capitalization records at the applicable record date. Identify separately the votes for general matters, director elections, protective provisions, and mandatory conversion; one threshold does not answer all four questions.

4.2Class seats, at-large seats, and vacanciesRecommended (SHOULD)

Fill the preferred and common seat counts and the outstanding-share threshold, then reconcile the balance of seats with the bylaws and Voting Agreement. Check initial appointments, removal, vacancies, and election quorum. Confirm that a contractual designation under the Voting Agreement is implemented through the charter’s proper election mechanism.

4.3Preferred-director approval thresholdRecommended (SHOULD)

Define Requisite Directors and confirm whether approval needs one, a majority, or another specified number of seated Preferred Directors. Test vacancies and the loss of a preferred seat against every provision using that term.

4.5Charter changes and senior securitiesRecommended (SHOULD)

Review consent rights over charter and bylaw amendments, senior or pari passu securities, and changes to authorized shares. If convertible-security issuance is intended to be covered, make that explicit. For multiple common classes, check that the defined terms cover each intended class.

4.6Liquidation, reorganization, and jurisdiction movesRecommended (SHOULD)

Check the consent rights over liquidation and Deemed Liquidation Events and the optional protection for reorganizations delivering materially less favorable securities. If investors want a veto over a move to another jurisdiction itself, negotiate that separately; NVCA’s October 2025 footnote calls for a separate protective provision for a jurisdiction block; the less-favorable-rights clause should not be assumed to provide that separate protection.

Source scope: Seaport illustrates express jurisdiction protections, but not the model’s materially-less-favorable-securities alternative. The two provisions are not interchangeable examples.

4.7Distributions, subsidiaries, and board structureRecommended (SHOULD)

Check the restrictions and exceptions for repurchases, dividends, subsidiary ownership and dispositions, and changes to board size or director voting power. Reconcile the service-provider repurchase exception with the actual equity documents and any required Requisite Directors approval.

4.8Optional operating-consent packageOptional (MAY)

If § 3.3.9 is used, review each selected restriction: debt and liens, equity plans, loans and guarantees, executive matters, budgets, equity grants to significant holders, board committee composition, tokens, material contracts, acquihires, and real-estate leases. Fill company-appropriate limits and identify which actions can instead receive Requisite Directors approval. Compare the Investors’ Rights Agreement so the October 2025 relocation of these provisions does not produce omissions or inconsistent duplicate consents.

Sources for this section

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.1 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.1

The model calculates preferred votes on an as-converted basis at the applicable record date.

On any matter presented to the stockholders of the Corporation for their action or consideration at any meeting of stockholders of the Corporation (or by written consent of stockholders in lieu of a meeting), each holder of outstanding shares of Preferred Stock shall be entitled to cast the number of votes equal to the number of whole shares of Common Stock into which the shares of Preferred Stock held by such holder are convertible (as provided in Section 4 below) as of the record date for determining stockholders entitled to vote on such matter. Except as provided by law or by the other provisions of this Certificate of Incorporation, holders of Preferred Stock shall vote together with the holders of Common Stock as a single class and on an as-converted to Common Stock basis.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.1.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.3 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.2

The class-specific vacancy provision preserves election by the stockholders entitled to the seat.

If the holders of shares of Preferred Stock or Common Stock, as the case may be, fail to elect a sufficient number of directors to fill all directorships for which they are entitled to elect directors pursuant to Section 3.2(a) [(and to the extent any of such directorships is not otherwise filled by a director appointed in accordance with the last sentence of Section 3.2(a))], then any directorship not so filled shall remain vacant until such time as the holders of the Preferred Stock or Common Stock, as the case may be, fill such directorship in accordance with Section 3.2(a).

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.2; drafting notes 32, 33, 34, 35.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.5 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.2

The form defines the board approval that includes the selected preferred-director consent.

For purposes of this Certificate of Incorporation, “Requisite Directors” means the Board of Directors [including [a majority of] the Preferred Directors then seated].

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.2; drafting note 36.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.7 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.3

The protective provisions require the selected holder consent to effect covered transactions.

At any time when at least [____] shares of Preferred Stock [(subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Preferred Stock)] are outstanding, the Corporation shall not, either directly or indirectly by amendment, merger, consolidation, domestication, transfer of the Corporation, continuance, reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, waiver, statutory conversion, or otherwise, effect any of the following acts or transactions without (in addition to any other vote required by law or this Certificate of Incorporation) the written consent or affirmative vote of the Requisite Holders[, and any such act or transaction that has not been approved by such consent or vote prior to such act or transaction being effected shall be null and void ab initio, and of no force or effect].

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.3; drafting notes 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.13 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.3.9(a)

The optional debt restriction sits under a Requisite Directors approval exception, with negotiated thresholds and ordinary-course exclusions.

[unless otherwise approved by the Requisite Directors: [unless the aggregate indebtedness of the Corporation and its subsidiaries for borrowed money following such action would not exceed $[_______]/the amount already included in the annual budget approved in accordance with Section 3.3.9(f) and] other than equipment leases, bank lines of credit or trade payables incurred in the ordinary course of business, create, or issue, any debt security, create any lien or security interest (except for purchase money liens or statutory liens of landlords, mechanics, materialmen, workmen, warehousemen and other similar persons arising or incurred in the ordinary course of business), or incur other indebtedness for borrowed money, including but not limited to obligations and contingent obligations under guarantees, or permit any subsidiary to take any such action with respect to any debt security lien, security interest or other indebtedness for borrowed money;]

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.3.9(a); drafting notes 44, 45.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.14 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.3.9(i)

An optional restriction expressly covers tokens and instruments convertible into tokens.

[sell, issue, sponsor, create or distribute, or cause or permit any of its subsidiaries to sell, issue, sponsor, create or distribute, any digital tokens, cryptocurrency or other blockchain-based assets (collectively, “Tokens”), including through a pre-sale, initial coin offering, token distribution event or crowdfunding, or through the issuance of any instrument convertible into or exchangeable for Tokens;]

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.3.9(i).

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.15 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.3.9(k)

An optional restriction addresses material IP or asset transactions accompanied by direct engagements of senior executives.

[any license or transfer of the Corporation’s (or its subsidiaries’) intellectual property or assets to a third party in a material transaction or series of related transactions that, viewed in the aggregate, would be material and in connection with which such third party or its affiliates contemporaneously directly engages the services of any of the Corporation’s senior executives in their individual capacities (including transactions commonly referred to as acquihires)];

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.3.9(k).

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.16 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.3.9(k)–(l)

The optional restrictions address acquihire transactions and real estate leases longer than three years, with the stated exceptions.

[any license or transfer of the Corporation’s (or its subsidiaries’) intellectual property or assets to a third party in a material transaction or series of related transactions that, viewed in the aggregate, would be material and in connection with which such third party or its affiliates contemporaneously directly engages the services of any of the Corporation’s senior executives in their individual capacities (including transactions commonly referred to as acquihires)]; [or] [enter into a real estate lease having a term longer than, or extend a real estate lease to result in a term longer than, three years, unless [either (i)] the aggregate annual cost to the Corporation is less than $[_______][or (ii) it is included in an annual budget or any amendment thereto approved in accordance with Section 3.3.9(f)].]

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 3.3.9(k)–(l).

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.2 Seaport filed charter — 3.1

The filed charter specifies preferred voting on an as-converted basis.

3.1 General . On any matter presented to the stockholders of the Corporation for their action or consideration at any meeting of stockholders of the Corporation (or by written consent of stockholders in lieu of a meeting), each holder of outstanding shares of Preferred Stock shall be entitled to cast the number of votes equal to the number of whole shares of Common Stock into which the shares of Preferred Stock held by such holder are convertible (as provided in Section 4 below) as of the record date for determining stockholders entitled to vote on such matter. Except as provided by law or by the other provisions of this Certificate of Incorporation, holders of Preferred Stock shall vote together with the holders of Common Stock as a single class and on an as-converted to Common Stock basis.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 3.1. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.4 Seaport filed charter — 3.2

The filed charter assigns director election rights by series.

3.2.1 (i) At all times when at least 10,000,000 shares of Series A-1 Preferred Stock remain outstanding (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination, or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Series A-1 Preferred Stock), the holders of record of the shares of Series A-1 Preferred Stock, exclusively and voting together as a separate class, shall be entitled to elect two (2) directors of the Corporation (each, a “ Series A-1 Director ”), (ii) at all times when at least 6,578,947 shares of Series A-2 Preferred Stock remain outstanding (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination, or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Series A-2 Preferred Stock), the holders of record of the shares of Series A-2 Preferred Stock, exclusively and voting together as a separate class, shall be entitled to elect two (2) directors of the Corporation (each, a “ Series A-2 Director ”), (iii) at all times when at least 11,894,734 shares of Series B Preferred Stock remain outstanding (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination, or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Series B Preferred Stock), the holders of record of the shares of Series B Preferred Stock, exclusively and voting together as a separate class, shall be entitled to elect one (1) director of the Corporation (the “ Series B Director ” and, together with the Series A-1 Directors and Series A-2 Directors, each, a “ Preferred Director ”), and (iv) the holders of record of the shares of Common Stock and of any other class or series of voting stock (including the Preferred Stock), exclusively and voting together as a single class on an as-converted to Common Stock basis, shall be entitled to elect the balance of the total number of directors of the Corporation (the “ At-Large Directors ”); provided , however , for administrative convenience, the initial Series B Director may also be appointed by the Board of Directors in connection with the approval of the initial issuance of the Series B Preferred Stock without a separate action by the holders of Preferred Stock.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 3.2. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.6 Seaport filed charter — 3.2.4

The filed charter defines Requisite Directors.

3.2.4 The “ Requisite Directors ” shall mean a majority of the Board of Directors, including a majority of the Preferred Directors then seated (or three (3) Preferred Directors if greater), and including at least two (2) Preferred Directors that are not Series A-1 Directors, 3.3 Preferred Stock Protective Provisions . At any time when at least 28,480,260 shares of Preferred Stock (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Preferred Stock and calculated on an as-converted to Common Stock basis) are outstanding, the Corporation shall not, either directly or indirectly by amendment, merger, consolidation, domestication, transfer, continuance, recapitalization, reclassification, waiver, statutory conversion, or otherwise, effect any of the following acts or transactions without (in addition to any other vote required by law or this Certificate of Incorporation) the written consent or affirmative vote of the Requisite Holders and any such act or transaction that has not been approved by such consent or vote prior to such act or transaction being effected shall be null and void ab initio, and of no force or effect:

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 3.2.4. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.9 Seaport filed charter — 3.3.2–3.3.4

The filed charter protects preferred rights against charter or bylaw amendments.

3.3.2 amend, alter or repeal any provision of this Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws of the Corporation in a manner that adversely affects the special rights, powers and preferences of the Preferred Stock (or any series thereof); 3.3.3 create, or authorize the creation of, or issue, or obligate itself to issue, shares of, or reclassify, any capital stock or any security convertible into or exercisable for any equity security, in each case, unless the same ranks junior to the Preferred Stock with respect to its special rights, powers and preferences; 3.3.4 increase or decrease the authorized number of shares of Preferred Stock or of any series of Preferred Stock;

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 3.3.2–3.3.4. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.10 Seaport filed charter — 3.3.1

The filed charter expressly includes domestication and continuance in its protected transactions.

3.3 Preferred Stock Protective Provisions . At any time when at least 28,480,260 shares of Preferred Stock (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Preferred Stock and calculated on an as-converted to Common Stock basis) are outstanding, the Corporation shall not, either directly or indirectly by amendment, merger, consolidation, domestication, transfer, continuance, recapitalization, reclassification, waiver, statutory conversion, or otherwise, effect any of the following acts or transactions without (in addition to any other vote required by law or this Certificate of Incorporation) the written consent or affirmative vote of the Requisite Holders and any such act or transaction that has not been approved by such consent or vote prior to such act or transaction being effected shall be null and void ab initio, and of no force or effect: 3.3.1 liquidate, dissolve or wind-up the business and affairs of the Corporation or effect any Deemed Liquidation Event or any other merger, consolidation, statutory conversion, transfer, domestication or continuance;

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 3.3.1. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.12 Seaport filed charter — §§ 3.3.6, 3.3.9–3.3.10

The filed charter restricts distributions and repurchases subject to exceptions.

3.3.6 purchase or redeem (or permit any subsidiary to purchase or redeem) or pay or declare any dividend or make any distribution on, any shares of capital stock of the Corporation other than: (i) redemptions of or dividends or distributions on the Preferred Stock as expressly authorized herein; (ii) dividends or other distributions payable on the Common Stock solely in the form of additional shares of Common Stock; (iii) repurchases of stock from former employees, officers, directors, consultants or other persons who performed services for the Corporation or any subsidiary in connection with the cessation of such employment or service, at no greater than the original purchase price thereof; and (iv) as otherwise approved by the Requisite Directors;

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), §§ 3.3.6, 3.3.9–3.3.10. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

D.11 NVCA model — drafting note 40

The model note calls for a separate protective provision when investors want to block a jurisdiction move.

If Investors desire to have a block over the Corporation moving to a different jurisdiction, build in a separate protective provision.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), drafting note 40.

0 of 12 checked

Optional Conversion and Anti-Dilution

5.1Original Issue Price and Conversion PriceRecommended (SHOULD)

Check the initial Conversion Price against the agreed issue price and calculate the resulting conversion ratio. Reconcile each series and any existing adjustments. The ratio uses Original Issue Price; do not assume accruing dividends automatically increase the conversion numerator.

5.2Holder-level aggregation and roundingRecommended (SHOULD)

Confirm the capitalization system aggregates the same holder’s converting shares of the same series before rounding to the nearest whole common share. Test a holder with multiple certificates and a half-share result; certificate-by-certificate rounding can produce a different answer.

5.3Notice, certificates, taxes, and terminationRecommended (SHOULD)

Check voluntary-conversion notice and timing, lost-certificate and uncertificated-share handling, replacement evidence for unconverted shares, and payment of declared dividends. Reconcile transfer taxes and the end of conversion rights at redemption or liquidation, including continuation where the redemption price is unpaid.

5.4Common-share reserve and par-value floorRecommended (SHOULD)

Confirm the reserve covenant and the undertaking to obtain any needed increase in authorized common shares. Check the mechanism for an adjustment that would put the Conversion Price below common par value with counsel before the adjustment is implemented.

5.5Anti-dilution exclusions and approvalsRecommended (SHOULD)

Review each exclusion from Additional Shares of Common Stock, including equity compensation, lending or leasing, vendors, acquisitions, public offerings, and strategic arrangements. Fill any share caps and preferred-director approval conditions; reconcile outstanding instruments and the Original Issue Date. Do not assume every bracketed exclusion belongs in the deal.

5.6Weighted average or full ratchetRecommended (SHOULD)

Select the negotiated § 4.4.4 alternative. For weighted average, test CP2 = CP1 × (A + B) / (A + C), using the draft’s precise definition of A rather than a generic fully diluted cap table. Record whether ungranted pool shares are included. For full ratchet, confirm the reset and no-consideration treatment.

5.7Full-ratchet expiration and successor formulaOptional (MAY)

If full ratchet expires on a date, state the date and the adjustment regime that applies afterward. NVCA’s footnote expressly calls for the successor provision; filling the date alone leaves the later financing treatment unresolved.

5.8Options, convertibles, and readjustmentsRecommended (SHOULD)

Test options and convertible securities at issuance, amendment, expiration, and the point at which conversion terms become calculable. Reconcile consideration and maximum shares, and preserve the protection against circular adjustments caused by another instrument’s own anti-dilution mechanism.

5.9Anti-dilution waiver constituencyRecommended (SHOULD)

Select whether the written adjustment waiver comes from Requisite Holders or the affected series. For a multi-series charter, calculate who can waive another series’ protection and confirm that allocation is intentional.

5.10Related issuances and closing windowRecommended (SHOULD)

Reconcile § 4.4.6 with additional and tranched closings under the SPA. Resolve the optional 180-day window and test the final readjustment as though covered issuances occurred on the first date, avoiding duplicate adjustments.

5.11Splits, dividends, and reorganizationsRecommended (SHOULD)

Check §§ 4.5–4.8 for splits, combinations, stock dividends, other distributions, and reorganizations. Coordinate changes to Original Issue Price and Conversion Price so the same event is not counted twice. Review what preferred receives in a merger that is not treated as a Deemed Liquidation Event.

5.12Calculation certificates and event noticesRecommended (SHOULD)

Retain the adjustment certificate and its supporting facts, fill the on-request response period, and resolve advance notice of record dates and major events. Check that the notice periods give holders the contemplated opportunity to exercise conversion rights.

Sources for this section

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.1 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.1.1

The optional conversion ratio divides Original Issue Price by Conversion Price.

Each share of Preferred Stock shall be convertible, at the option of the holder thereof, at any time, and without the payment of additional consideration by the holder thereof, into such whole number of fully paid and non-assessable shares of Common Stock (calculated as provided in Section 4.2 below), as is determined by dividing the applicable Original Issue Price by the applicable Conversion Price (as defined below) in effect at the time of conversion.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.1.1; drafting notes 46, 47.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.3 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.2

The model rounds after aggregating the converting holder’s interests in the same series.

The number of shares of Common Stock issuable to a holder of Preferred Stock upon conversion of such Preferred Stock shall be the nearest whole share, after aggregating all fractional interests in shares of Common Stock that would otherwise be issuable upon conversion of all shares of that same series of Preferred Stock being converted by such holder (with any fractional interests after such aggregation representing 0.5 or greater of a whole share being entitled to a whole share).

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.2; drafting note 48.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.5 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.1.2

Conversion rights continue after a noticed redemption date if the redemption price remains unpaid.

In the event of a notice of redemption of any shares of Preferred Stock pursuant to Section 2.3.2(b) [or Section 6.1], the Conversion Rights of the shares designated for redemption shall terminate at 5:00 p.m. [Eastern/Pacific] time (the “close of business” for purposes hereof) on the last full day preceding the date fixed for redemption, unless the redemption price is not fully paid on such redemption date, in which case the Conversion Rights for such shares shall continue until such price is paid in full.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.1.2.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.6 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.3.1

Voluntary conversion requires notice and, for certificated shares, surrender or acceptable lost-certificate documentation.

In order for a holder of Preferred Stock to voluntarily convert shares of Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock, such holder shall (a) provide written notice to the Corporation at the principal office of the Corporation that such holder elects to convert all or any number of such holder’s shares of Preferred Stock and, if applicable, any event on which such conversion is contingent and (b) if such holder’s shares are certificated, tender to the Corporation at its principal office (1) the certificate or certificates for such shares of Preferred Stock or (2) a stock assignment separate from certificate if such certificate or certificates are electronic (or, if such registered holder alleges that such certificate has been lost, stolen or destroyed, a lost certificate affidavit and agreement reasonably acceptable to the Corporation to indemnify the Corporation against any claim that may be made against the Corporation on account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of such certificate).

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.3.1; drafting notes 49, 50.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.7 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.3.3

Conversion ends preferred rights while preserving the right to common shares and declared but unpaid dividends.

All shares of Preferred Stock which shall have been surrendered for conversion as herein provided shall no longer be deemed to be outstanding and all rights with respect to such shares shall immediately cease and terminate at the Conversion Time, except only the right of the holders thereof to receive shares of Common Stock in exchange therefor and to receive payment of any dividends declared but unpaid thereon.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.3.3.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.8 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.3.5

The corporation bears issue taxes; a requested transfer into another name may require the requesting person to pay the transfer tax.

The Corporation shall pay any and all issue and other similar taxes that may be payable in respect of any issuance or delivery of shares of Common Stock upon conversion of shares of Preferred Stock pursuant to this Section 4. The Corporation shall not, however, be required to pay any tax which may be payable in respect of any transfer involved in the issuance and delivery of shares of Common Stock in a name other than that in which the shares of Preferred Stock so converted were registered, and no such issuance or delivery shall be made unless and until the person or entity requesting such issuance has paid to the Corporation the amount of any such tax or has established, to the satisfaction of the Corporation, that such tax has been paid.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.3.5.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.10 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.3.2

The charter commits the corporation to reserve enough common shares for conversion.

The Corporation shall at all times when the Preferred Stock shall be outstanding, reserve and keep available out of its authorized but unissued capital stock, for the purpose of effecting the conversion of the Preferred Stock, such number of its duly authorized shares of Common Stock as shall from time to time be sufficient to effect the conversion of all outstanding Preferred Stock; and if at any time the number of authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock shall not be sufficient to effect the conversion of all then outstanding shares of the Preferred Stock, the Corporation shall take such corporate action as may be necessary to increase its authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock to such number of shares as shall be sufficient for such purposes, including, without limitation, engaging in best efforts to obtain the requisite stockholder approval of any necessary amendment to this Certificate of Incorporation.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.3.2.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.12 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.4.1

The anti-dilution definitions identify excluded issuances and the Original Issue Date.

“Additional Shares of Common Stock” means all shares of Common Stock issued (or, pursuant to Section 4.4.3 below, deemed to be issued) by the Corporation after the Original Issue Date (as defined below), other than (1) the following shares of Common Stock and (2) shares of Common Stock deemed issued pursuant to the following Options and Convertible Securities (clauses (1) and (2), collectively, “Exempted Securities”): as to any series of Preferred Stock, shares of Common Stock, Options or Convertible Securities issued as a dividend or distribution on such series of Preferred Stock (including dividends payable in connection with dividends on other classes or series of stock); shares of Common Stock, Options or Convertible Securities issued by reason of a dividend, stock split, split-up or other distribution on shares of Common Stock that is covered by Section 4.5, 4.6, 4.7 or 4.8; [shares of Common Stock, Options or Convertible Securities issued to banks, equipment lessors or other financial institutions, or to real property lessors, pursuant to a debt financing, equipment leasing or real property leasing transaction [approved by the Requisite Directors] [that do not exceed an aggregate of [______] shares of Common Stock (including shares underlying (directly or indirectly) any such Options or Convertible Securities)];] shares of Common Stock or Options issued to employees or directors of, or consultants or advisors to, the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries pursuant to a plan, agreement or arrangement [approved (i) prior to the Original Issue Date or (ii) by the Requisite Directors]; shares of Common Stock or Convertible Securities actually issued upon the exercise of Options or shares of Common Stock actually issued upon the conversion or exchange of Convertible Securities, in each case provided such issuance is pursuant to the terms of such Option or Convertible Security; [shares of Common Stock, Options or Convertible Securities issued to suppliers or third party service providers in connection with the provision of goods or services pursuant to transactions [approved by the Requisite Directors] [that do not exceed an aggregate of [______] shares of Common Stock (including shares underlying (directly or indirectly) any such Options or Convertible Securities)];] [shares of Common Stock, Options or Convertible Securities issued as acquisition consideration pursuant to the acquisition of another corporation by the Corporation by merger, purchase of substantially all of the assets or other reorganization or to a joint venture agreement[, provided that such issuances [are approved by the Requisite Directors] [[do not exceed an aggregate of [______] shares of Common Stock (including shares underlying (directly or indirectly) any such Options or Convertible Securities)];] [or] shares of Common Stock issued in connection with a firm underwritten public offering of the Corporation’s Common Stock pursuant to an effective registration statement; [or] [shares of Common Stock, Options or Convertible Securities issued in connection with sponsored research, collaboration, technology license, development, OEM, marketing or other similar agreements or strategic partnerships [approved by the Requisite Directors] [that do not exceed an aggregate of [______] shares of Common Stock (including shares underlying (directly or indirectly) any such Options or Convertible Securities)]. “Convertible Securities” means any evidences of indebtedness, shares or other securities directly or indirectly convertible into or exchangeable for Common Stock, but excluding Options. “Option” means any rights, options or warrants to subscribe for, purchase or otherwise acquire Common Stock or Convertible Securities. “Original Issue Date” means the date on which the first share of Series A Preferred Stock is issued.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.4.1; drafting notes 51, 52, 53.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.14 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.4.4, weighted-average alternative

The weighted-average provision responds to an issuance below the current Conversion Price.

In the event the Corporation shall at any time after the Original Issue Date issue Additional Shares of Common Stock (including Additional Shares of Common Stock deemed to be issued pursuant to Section 4.4.3), without consideration or for a consideration per share less than the Conversion Price of a series of Preferred Stock in effect immediately prior to such issuance or deemed issuance, then the Conversion Price for such series of Preferred Stock shall be reduced, concurrently with such issue, to a price (calculated to the nearest one-hundredth of a cent) determined in accordance with the following formula:

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.4.4, weighted-average alternative; drafting note 56.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.15 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.4.4, full-ratchet alternative

The alternative full-ratchet provision resets Conversion Price to the new issue price, subject to its terms.

In the event the Corporation at any time after the Original Issue Date [and prior to [Date]] issues Additional Shares of Common Stock (including Additional Shares of Common Stock deemed to be issued pursuant to Section 4.4.3), without consideration or for a consideration per share less than the Conversion Price of a series of Preferred Stock in effect immediately prior to such issuance or deemed issuance, then the Conversion Price of such series of Preferred Stock shall be reduced, concurrently with such issuance or deemed issuance, to the consideration per share received by the Corporation for such issue or deemed issue of the Additional Shares of Common Stock; provided that if such issuance or deemed issuance was without consideration, then the Corporation shall be deemed to have received an aggregate of [$0.001] of consideration for all such Additional Shares of Common Stock issued or deemed to be issued.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.4.4, full-ratchet alternative; drafting note 57.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.17 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.4.3

Options and convertibles can count as deemed common-share issuances before exercise or conversion.

If the Corporation at any time or from time to time after the Original Issue Date shall issue any Options or Convertible Securities (excluding Options or Convertible Securities which are themselves Exempted Securities) or shall fix a record date for the determination of holders of any class of securities entitled to receive any such Options or Convertible Securities, then the maximum number of shares of Common Stock (as set forth in the instrument relating thereto, assuming the satisfaction of any conditions to exercisability, convertibility or exchangeability but without regard to any provision contained therein for a subsequent adjustment of such number) issuable upon the exercise of such Options or, in the case of Convertible Securities and Options therefor, the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities, shall be deemed to be Additional Shares of Common Stock issued as of the time of such issue or, in case such a record date shall have been fixed, as of the close of business on such record date.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.4.3; drafting notes 54, 55.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.19 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.4.2

The anti-dilution provision includes a written waiver with an elected holder threshold.

No adjustment in the Conversion Price of any series of Preferred Stock shall be made as the result of the issuance or deemed issuance of Additional Shares of Common Stock if the Corporation receives written notice from [the Requisite Holders] [the holders of [a majority] of the then outstanding shares of such series of Preferred Stock], agreeing that no such adjustment shall be made as the result of the issuance or deemed issuance of such Additional Shares of Common Stock.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.4.2.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.21 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.4.6

The model readjusts covered issuances at multiple closings as one transaction.

In the event the Corporation shall issue on more than one date Additional Shares of Common Stock that are a part of one transaction or a series of related transactions and that would result in an adjustment to the Conversion Price of a series of Preferred Stock pursuant to the terms of Section 4.4.4[, and such issuance dates occur within a period of no more than [180] days from the first such issuance to the final such issuance,] then, upon the final such issuance, the Conversion Price for such series of Preferred Stock shall be readjusted to give effect to all such issuances as if they occurred on the date of the first such issuance (and without giving effect to any additional adjustments as a result of any such subsequent issuances within such period).

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.4.6.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.23 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.8

The model preserves conversion into successor consideration in specified reorganizations.

Subject to the provisions of Section 2.3, if there shall occur any reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, consolidation or merger involving the Corporation in which the Common Stock (but not the Preferred Stock) is converted into or exchanged for securities, cash or other property (other than a transaction covered by Sections 4.4, 4.6 or 4.7), then, following any such reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, consolidation or merger, each share of Preferred Stock shall thereafter be convertible in lieu of the Common Stock into which it was convertible prior to such event into the kind and amount of securities, cash or other property which a holder of the number of shares of Common Stock of the Corporation issuable upon conversion of one share of such Preferred Stock immediately prior to such reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, consolidation or merger would have been entitled to receive pursuant to such transaction; and, in such case, appropriate adjustment (as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors) shall be made in the application of the provisions in this Section 4 with respect to the rights and interests thereafter of the holders of the Preferred Stock, to the end that the provisions set forth in this Section 4.8 (including provisions with respect to changes in and other adjustments of the Conversion Price of each series of Preferred Stock) shall thereafter be applicable, as nearly as reasonably may be, in relation to any securities or other property thereafter deliverable upon the conversion of the Preferred Stock.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.8; drafting notes 58, 59, 60.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.26 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.9

The corporation supplies holders with the calculation and supporting facts for an adjustment.

Upon the occurrence of each adjustment or readjustment of the Conversion Price of a series of Preferred Stock pursuant to this Section 4, the Corporation at its expense shall, as promptly as reasonably practicable but in any event not later than ten days thereafter, compute such adjustment or readjustment in accordance with the terms hereof and furnish to each holder of such series of Preferred Stock a certificate setting forth such adjustment or readjustment (including the kind and amount of securities, cash or other property into which such series of Preferred Stock is convertible) and showing in detail the facts upon which such adjustment or readjustment is based.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.9.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.2 Seaport filed charter — 4.1.1

The filed charter specifies the optional conversion ratio.

4.1.1 Conversion Ratio . Each share of Preferred Stock shall be convertible, at the option of the holder thereof, at any time, and without the payment of additional consideration by the holder thereof, into such whole number of fully paid and non-assessable shares of Common Stock (calculated as provided in Section 4.2 below), as is determined by dividing the applicable Original Issue Price by the applicable Conversion Price (as defined below) in effect at the time of conversion. The “ Conversion Price ” applicable to the Series A-1 Preferred Stock, the Series A-2 Preferred Stock, and the Series B Preferred Stock as of the Original Issue Date shall be equal to $0.10, $3.80, and $4.75, respectively, per share. Such initial Conversion Price for the Series A-1 Preferred Stock, the Series A-2 Preferred Stock, and the Series B Preferred Stock, and the rate at which shares of the Series A-1 Preferred Stock, the Series A-2 Preferred Stock, and the Series B Preferred Stock may be converted into shares of Common Stock, shall be subject to adjustment as provided in this Section 4 . In the event that, on or prior to March 31, 2026, the first patient is not dosed in a placebo-controlled phase 2 study for SPT-300 in major depressive disorder (which study includes activated sites in the United States) and the Conversion Price for the Series B Preferred Stock at such time exceeds $3.80 per share, then the Conversion Price for the Series B Preferred Stock will be automatically reduced to $3.80 per share (in each case, subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Common Stock and calculated on an as-converted to Common Stock basis).

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 4.1.1. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.4 Seaport filed charter — 4.2

The filed charter specifies how to handle fractional shares on conversion.

4.2 Number of Shares Issuable Upon Conversion . The number of shares of Common Stock issuable to a holder of Preferred Stock upon conversion of such Preferred Stock shall be rounded to the nearest whole share, after aggregating all fractional interests in shares of Common Stock that would otherwise be issuable upon conversion of all shares of that same series of Preferred Stock being converted by such holder (with any fractional interests after such aggregation representing 0.5 or greater of a whole share being entitled to a whole share). For the avoidance of doubt, no fractional interests in shares of Common Stock shall be created or issuable as a result of the conversion of the Preferred Stock pursuant to Section 4.1.1 .

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 4.2. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.9 Seaport filed charter — 4.1.2, 4.3.1, 4.3.3–4.3.5

The filed charter preserves conversion rights after a redemption date if the redemption price remains unpaid.

4.1.2 Termination of Conversion Rights . In the event of a notice of redemption of any shares of Preferred Stock pursuant to Section 2.3.2(b) , the Conversion Rights of the shares designated for redemption shall terminate at the close of business on the last full day preceding the date fixed for redemption, unless the redemption price is not fully paid on such redemption date, in which case the Conversion Rights for such shares shall continue until such price is paid in full. In the event of a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or a Deemed Liquidation Event, the Conversion Rights shall terminate at the close of business on the last full day preceding the date fixed for the payment of any such amounts distributable on such event to the holders of Preferred Stock; provided that the foregoing termination of Conversion Rights shall not affect the amount(s) otherwise paid or payable in accordance with Section 2.1 to the holders of Preferred Stock pursuant to such liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or a Deemed Liquidation Event.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 4.1.2, 4.3.1, 4.3.3–4.3.5. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.11 Seaport filed charter — 4.3.2

The filed charter requires a reserve sufficient for preferred conversion.

4.3.2 Reservation of Shares . The Corporation shall at all times when the Preferred Stock shall be outstanding, reserve and keep available out of its authorized but unissued capital stock, for the purpose of effecting the conversion of the Preferred Stock, such number of its duly authorized shares of Common Stock as shall from time to time be sufficient to effect the conversion of all outstanding Preferred Stock; and if at any time the number of authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock shall not be sufficient to effect the conversion of all then outstanding shares of the Preferred Stock, the Corporation shall take such corporate action as may be necessary to increase its authorized but unissued shares of Common Stock to such number of shares as shall be sufficient for such purposes, including, without limitation, engaging in best efforts to obtain the requisite stockholder approval of any necessary amendment to this Certificate of Incorporation. Before taking any action that would cause an adjustment reducing the Conversion Price for any series of Preferred Stock below the then par value of the shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of such series of Preferred Stock, the Corporation will take any corporate action which may, in the opinion of its counsel, be necessary in order that the Corporation may validly and legally issue fully paid and non-assessable shares of Common Stock at such adjusted Conversion Price.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 4.3.2. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.13 Seaport filed charter — 4.4.1

The filed charter defines Additional Shares and identifies Exempted Securities.

(a) “ Additional Shares of Common Stock ” means all shares of Common Stock issued (or, pursuant to Section 4.4.3 below, deemed to be issued) by the Corporation after the Original Issue Date (as defined below), other than (1) the following shares of Common Stock and (2) shares of Common Stock deemed issued pursuant to the following Options and Convertible Securities (clauses (1) and (2), collectively, “ Exempted Securities ”):

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 4.4.1. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.16 Seaport filed charter — 4.4.4

The filed charter adjusts the conversion price for a below-price issuance using a formula.

4.4.4 Adjustment of Conversion Price Upon Issuance of Additional Shares of Common Stock . In the event the Corporation shall at any time after the Original Issue Date issue Additional Shares of Common Stock (including Additional Shares of Common Stock deemed to be issued pursuant to Section 4.4.3 ), without consideration or for a consideration per share less than the Conversion Price of a series of Preferred Stock in effect immediately prior to such issuance or deemed issuance, then the Conversion Price for such series of Preferred Stock shall be reduced, concurrently with such issue, to a price (calculated to the nearest one-hundredth of a cent) determined in accordance with the following formula: CP 2 = CP 1 * ((A + B) / (A + C)). For purposes of the foregoing formula, the following definitions shall apply: (a) “CP 2 ” shall mean the Conversion Price of such series of Preferred Stock in effect immediately after such issuance or deemed issuance of Additional Shares of Common Stock; (b) “CP 1 ” shall mean the Conversion Price of such series of Preferred Stock in effect immediately prior to such issuance or deemed issuance of Additional Shares of Common Stock; (c) “A” shall mean the number of shares of Common Stock outstanding immediately prior to such issuance or deemed issuance of Additional Shares of Common Stock (treating for this purpose as outstanding all shares of Common Stock issuable upon exercise of Options outstanding immediately prior to such issuance or deemed issuance or upon conversion or exchange of Convertible Securities (including the Preferred Stock) outstanding (assuming exercise of any outstanding Options therefor) immediately prior to such issue); (d) “B” shall mean the number of shares of Common Stock that would have been issued if such Additional Shares of Common Stock had been issued or deemed issued at a price per share equal to CP 1 (determined by dividing the aggregate consideration received by the Corporation in respect of such issue by CP 1 ); and (e) “C” shall mean the number of such Additional Shares of Common Stock issued in such transaction.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 4.4.4. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.18 Seaport filed charter — 4.4.3, 4.4.5

The filed charter treats certain option and convertible issuances as additional common shares.

(a) If the Corporation at any time or from time to time after the Original Issue Date shall issue any Options or Convertible Securities (excluding Options or Convertible Securities which are themselves Exempted Securities) or shall fix a record date for the determination of holders of any class of securities entitled to receive any such Options or Convertible Securities, then the maximum number of shares of Common Stock (as set forth in the instrument relating thereto, assuming the satisfaction of any conditions to exercisability, convertibility or exchangeability but without regard to any provision contained therein for a subsequent adjustment of such number) issuable upon the exercise of such Options or, in the case of Convertible Securities and Options therefor, the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities, shall be deemed to be Additional Shares of Common Stock issued as of the time of such issue or, in case such a record date shall have been fixed, as of the close of business on such record date.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 4.4.3, 4.4.5. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.20 Seaport filed charter — 4.4.2

The filed charter allows specified holders to waive a conversion-price adjustment.

4.4.2 No Adjustment of Preferred Stock Conversion Price . No adjustment in the Conversion Price of a series of Preferred Stock shall be made as the result of the issuance or deemed issuance of Additional Shares of Common Stock if the Corporation receives written notice from the holders of at least a majority of the outstanding shares of such series of Preferred Stock, voting together as a single class, and, solely in respect of an adjustment in the Conversion Price of the Series B Preferred Stock, the Series B Majority, agreeing that no such adjustment shall be made as the result of the issuance or deemed issuance of such Additional Shares of Common Stock.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 4.4.2. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.22 Seaport filed charter — 4.4.6

The filed charter coordinates related issuances within a 180-day period.

4.4.6 Multiple Closing Dates . In the event the Corporation shall issue on more than one date Additional Shares of Common Stock that are a part of one transaction or a series of related transactions and that would result in an adjustment to the Conversion Price of a series of Preferred Stock pursuant to the terms of Section 4.4.4 , and such issuance dates occur within a period of no more than 180 days from the first such issuance to the final such issuance, then, upon the final such issuance, the Conversion Price for such series of Preferred Stock shall be readjusted to give effect to all such issuances as if they occurred on the date of the first such issuance (and without giving effect to any additional adjustments as a result of any such subsequent issuances within such period).

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 4.4.6. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.24 Seaport filed charter — §§ 4.5–4.8

The filed charter adjusts conversion terms for splits, stock dividends, other distributions and specified reorganizations.

4.5 Adjustment for Stock Splits and Combinations . If the Corporation shall at any time or from time to time after the Original Issue Date effect a subdivision of the outstanding Common Stock, the Conversion Price of each series of Preferred Stock in effect immediately before that subdivision shall be proportionately decreased so that the number of shares of Common Stock issuable on conversion of each share of such series shall be increased in proportion to such increase in the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock outstanding. If the Corporation shall at any time or from time to time after the Original Issue Date combine the outstanding shares of Common Stock, the Conversion Price of each series of Preferred Stock in effect immediately before the combination shall be proportionately increased so that the number of shares of Common Stock issuable on conversion of each share of such series shall be decreased in proportion to such decrease in the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock outstanding. Any adjustment under this Section 4.5 shall become effective at the close of business on the date the subdivision or combination becomes effective. 4.6 Adjustment for Certain Dividends and Distributions . In the event the Corporation at any time or from time to time after the Original Issue Date shall make or issue, or fix a record date for the determination of holders of Common Stock entitled to receive, a dividend or other distribution payable on the Common Stock in additional shares of Common Stock, then and in each such event the Conversion Price of each series of Preferred Stock in effect immediately before such event shall be decreased as of the time of such issuance or, in the event such a record date shall have been fixed, as of the close of business on such record date, by multiplying the Conversion Price of each such series of Preferred Stock then in effect by a fraction: (1) the numerator of which shall be the total number of shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the time of such issuance or the close of business on such record date, and (2) the denominator of which shall be the total number of shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the time of such issuance or the close of business on such record date plus the number of shares of Common Stock issuable in payment of such dividend or distribution. Notwithstanding the foregoing, (a) if such record date shall have been fixed and such dividend is not fully paid or if such distribution is not fully made on the date fixed therefor, the Conversion Price of each series of Preferred Stock shall be recomputed accordingly as of the close of business on such record date and thereafter the Conversion Price of each series of Preferred Stock shall be adjusted pursuant to this Section 4.6 as of the time of actual payment of such dividends or distributions; and (b) no such adjustment shall be made if the holders of such series of Preferred Stock simultaneously receive a dividend or other distribution of shares of Common Stock in a number equal to the number of shares of Common Stock as they would have received if all outstanding shares of such series of Preferred Stock had been converted into Common Stock on the date of such event. 20 4.7 Adjustments for Other Dividends and Distributions . In the event the Corporation at any time or from time to time after the Original Issue Date shall make or issue, or fix a record date for the determination of holders of Common Stock entitled to receive, a dividend or other distribution payable in securities of the Corporation (other than a distribution of shares of Common Stock in respect of outstanding shares of Common Stock) or in other property and the provisions of Section 1 do not apply to such dividend or distribution, then and in each such event the holders of Preferred Stock shall receive, simultaneously with the distribution to the holders of Common Stock, a dividend or other distribution of such securities or other property in an amount equal to the amount of such securities or other property as they would have received if all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock had been converted into Common Stock on the date of such event. 4.8 Adjustment for Merger or Reorganization, etc . Subject to the provisions of Section 2.3 , if there shall occur any reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, consolidation or merger involving the Corporation in which the Common Stock (but not the Preferred Stock) is converted into or exchanged for securities, cash or other property (other than a transaction covered by Sections 4.5 , 4.6 or 4.7 ), then, following any such reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, consolidation or merger, each share of Preferred Stock shall thereafter be convertible in lieu of the Common Stock into which it was convertible prior to such event into the kind and amount of securities, cash or other property which a holder of the number of shares of Common Stock of the Corporation issuable upon conversion of one share of such Preferred Stock immediately prior to such reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, consolidation or merger would have been entitled to receive pursuant to such transaction; and, in such case, appropriate adjustment (as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors) shall be made in the application of the provisions in this Section 4 with respect to the rights and interests thereafter of the holders of the Preferred Stock, to the end that the provisions set forth in this Section 4 (including provisions with respect to changes in and other adjustments of the Conversion Price of each series of Preferred Stock) shall thereafter be applicable, as nearly as reasonably may be, in relation to any securities or other property thereafter deliverable upon the conversion of the Preferred Stock.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), §§ 4.5–4.8. These clauses illustrate the identified mechanics, not a completed transaction review or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.27 Seaport filed charter — 4.9–4.10

The filed charter requires a certificate explaining conversion-price adjustments.

4.9 Certificate as to Adjustments . Upon the occurrence of each adjustment or readjustment of the Conversion Price of a series of Preferred Stock pursuant to this Section 4 , the Corporation at its expense shall, as promptly as reasonably practicable but in any event not later than ten days thereafter, compute such adjustment or readjustment in accordance with the terms hereof and furnish to each holder of such series of Preferred Stock a certificate setting forth such adjustment or readjustment (including the kind and amount of securities, cash or other property into which such series of Preferred Stock is convertible) and showing in detail the facts upon which such adjustment or readjustment is based. The Corporation shall, as promptly as reasonably practicable after the written request at any time of any holder of Preferred Stock (but in any event not later than 10 days thereafter), furnish or cause to be furnished to such holder a certificate setting forth (i) the Conversion Price then in effect for each series of Preferred Stock held by such holder, and (ii) the number of shares of Common Stock and the amount, if any, of other securities, cash or property which then would be received upon the conversion of each such series of Preferred Stock.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 4.9–4.10. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.29 Seaport filed charter — § 4.10

The filed charter requires advance notice of specified record dates and corporate events.

4.10 Notice of Record Date . In the event: (a) the Corporation shall take a record of the holders of its Common Stock (or other capital stock or securities at the time issuable upon conversion of the Preferred Stock) for the purpose of entitling or enabling them to receive any dividend or other distribution, or to receive any right to subscribe for or purchase any shares of capital stock of any class or series or any other securities, or to receive any other security; or (b) of any capital reorganization of the Corporation, any reclassification of the Common Stock of the Corporation, or any Deemed Liquidation Event; or (c) of the voluntary or involuntary dissolution, liquidation or winding-up of the Corporation, then, and in each such case, the Corporation will send or cause to be sent to the holders of the Preferred Stock a notice specifying, as the case may be, (i) the record date for such dividend, distribution or right, and the amount and character of such dividend, distribution or right, or (ii) the effective date on which such reorganization, reclassification, consolidation, merger, transfer, dissolution, liquidation or winding-up is proposed to take place, and the time, if any is to be fixed, as of which the holders of record of Common Stock (or such other capital stock or securities at the time issuable upon the conversion of the Preferred Stock) shall be entitled to exchange their shares of Common Stock (or such other capital stock or securities) for securities or other property deliverable upon such reorganization, reclassification, consolidation, merger, transfer, dissolution, liquidation or winding-up, and the amount per share and character of such exchange applicable to the Preferred Stock and the Common Stock, Such notice shall be sent at least 10 days prior to the record date or effective date for the event specified in such notice.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), § 4.10.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.28 NVCA model — Part B, § 4.10

The model requires notice of specified record dates and events, with an elected advance-notice period.

Notice of Record Date. In the event: the Corporation shall take a record of the holders of its Common Stock (or other capital stock or securities at the time issuable upon conversion of the Preferred Stock) for the purpose of entitling or enabling them to receive any dividend or other distribution, or to receive any right to subscribe for or purchase any shares of capital stock of any class or series or any other securities, or to receive any other security; or of any capital reorganization of the Corporation, any reclassification of the Common Stock of the Corporation, or any Deemed Liquidation Event; or of the voluntary or involuntary dissolution, liquidation or winding-up of the Corporation, then, and in each such case, the Corporation will send or cause to be sent to the holders of the Preferred Stock a notice specifying, as the case may be, (i) the record date for such dividend, distribution or right, and the amount and character of such dividend, distribution or right, or (ii) the effective date on which such reorganization, reclassification, consolidation, merger, transfer, dissolution, liquidation or winding-up is proposed to take place, and the time, if any is to be fixed, as of which the holders of record of Common Stock (or such other capital stock or securities at the time issuable upon the conversion of the Preferred Stock) shall be entitled to exchange their shares of Common Stock (or such other capital stock or securities) for securities or other property deliverable upon such reorganization, reclassification, consolidation, merger, transfer, dissolution, liquidation or winding-up, and the amount per share and character of such exchange applicable to the Preferred Stock and the Common Stock. Such notice shall be sent at least [10] days prior to the record date or effective date for the event specified in such notice.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.10.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

E.25 NVCA model — Part B, §§ 4.5–4.7

The model separately adjusts for splits, stock dividends and other distributions.

Adjustment for Stock Splits and Combinations. If at any time or from time to time after the Original Issue Date the Corporation shall effect a subdivision of the outstanding Common Stock, the Conversion Price of each series of Preferred Stock in effect immediately before that subdivision shall be proportionately decreased so that the number of shares of Common Stock issuable on conversion of each share of such series shall be increased in proportion to such increase in the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock outstanding. If the Corporation shall at any time or from time to time after the Original Issue Date combine the outstanding shares of Common Stock, the Conversion Price of each series of Preferred Stock in effect immediately before the combination shall be proportionately increased so that the number of shares of Common Stock issuable on conversion of each share of such series shall be decreased in proportion to such decrease in the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock outstanding. Any adjustment under this Section 4.5 shall become effective at the close of business on the date the subdivision or combination becomes effective. Adjustment for Certain Dividends and Distributions. If at any time or from time to time after the Original Issue Date the Corporation shall make or issue, or fix a record date for the determination of holders of Common Stock entitled to receive, a dividend or other distribution payable on the Common Stock in additional shares of Common Stock, then and in each such event the Conversion Price of each series of Preferred Stock in effect immediately before such event shall be decreased as of the time of such issuance or, if such a record date shall have been fixed, as of the close of business on such record date, by multiplying the Conversion Price of each such series of Preferred Stock then in effect by a fraction: the numerator of which shall be the total number of shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the time of such issuance or the close of business on such record date, and the denominator of which shall be the total number of shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the time of such issuance or the close of business on such record date plus the number of shares of Common Stock issuable in payment of such dividend or distribution. Notwithstanding the foregoing, (a) if such record date shall have been fixed and such dividend is not fully paid or if such distribution is not fully made on the date fixed therefor, the Conversion Price of each series of Preferred Stock shall be recomputed accordingly as of the close of business on such record date and thereafter the Conversion Price of each series of Preferred Stock shall be adjusted pursuant to this Section 4.6 as of the time of actual payment of such dividends or distributions; and (b) no such adjustment shall be made if the holders of such series of Preferred Stock simultaneously receive a dividend or other distribution of shares of Common Stock in a number equal to the number of shares of Common Stock as they would have received if all outstanding shares of such series of Preferred Stock had been converted into Common Stock on the date of such event. Adjustments for Other Dividends and Distributions. If at any time or from time to time after the Original Issue Date the Corporation shall make or issue, or fix a record date for the determination of holders of Common Stock entitled to receive, a dividend or other distribution payable in securities of the Corporation (other than a distribution of shares of Common Stock in respect of outstanding shares of Common Stock) or in other property and the provisions of Section 1 do not apply to such dividend or distribution, then and in each such event the holders of Preferred Stock shall receive, simultaneously with the distribution to the holders of Common Stock, a dividend or other distribution of such securities or other property in an amount equal to the amount of such securities or other property as they would have received if all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock had been converted into Common Stock on the date of such event.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, §§ 4.5–4.7.

0 of 8 checked

Mandatory Conversion and Pay-to-Play

6.1Qualified IPO thresholdsRecommended (SHOULD)

Complete the qualified-IPO proceeds threshold and any minimum share price. Resolve gross versus net proceeds and approved exchanges. Check that the mandatory conversion time, rate, and rounding match the offering’s closing sequence.

6.2Optional direct-listing triggerOptional (MAY)

If direct listing is included, specify the exchange, registration event, and any market-capitalization threshold or board determination. Reconcile its timing separately from an underwritten IPO; the IPO clause alone does not provide the same trigger.

6.3Holder-directed conversion and minority protectionRecommended (SHOULD)

Calculate which holders can cause all preferred to convert and at what date, time, or event. In a multi-series charter, explicitly evaluate a conversion before a sale that would eliminate another series’ preference; an amendment veto is not a substitute for checking the conversion vote itself.

6.4Mandatory-conversion administrationRecommended (SHOULD)

Check notice, certificate surrender or lost-certificate procedures, uncertificated issuance, declared-dividend payment, and when preferred rights end. Confirm the mechanics do not leave conversion dependent on every holder returning a certificate.

6.5Optional participation penaltyOptional (MAY)

If pay-to-play is negotiated, select all-shares or proportional conversion and the conversion rate. Reconcile the charter with any SPA tranche-default penalty; the optional future-financing mechanism and a failure to fund a committed tranche need aligned triggers and defined terms.

6.6Qualified Financing and participation calculationOptional (MAY)

If § 5A is used, resolve the proceeds and down-round triggers, treatment of converted debt, opt-out vote and deadline, Offered Securities, Pro Rata Amount, and board cutbacks. Match any proportional penalty to the Applicable Portion definition. Aggregate affiliates without counting the same shares or purchases twice.

6.7Participation notice and voluntary-conversion suspensionOptional (MAY)

If § 5A is used, fill its advance-notice period and compare it with the Investors’ Rights Agreement participation notice. Consider the optional § 4.1.1 suspension to prevent escape from the negotiated penalty; preserve voting and liquidation calculations during any suspension.

6.8Rights after special conversionOptional (MAY)

If a participation penalty applies, decide separately what happens to registration, participation, and other contractual rights in companion agreements. Reconcile partial-conversion certificates and dividend payments; conversion under the charter does not by itself answer every contractual-rights question.

Sources for this section

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

F.1 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 5.1

The model includes IPO, optional direct-listing, and holder-directed mandatory conversion triggers.

Trigger Events. All outstanding shares of Preferred Stock shall automatically be converted into shares of Common Stock, at the then effective conversion rate as calculated pursuant to Sections 4.1.1 and 4.2, upon the earliest to occur of (the time of such conversion is referred to herein as the “Mandatory Conversion Time”): [(i)] immediately prior to the closing of the sale of shares of Common Stock to the public [at a price of at least $[_____] per share (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Common Stock)], in a firm-commitment underwritten public offering pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, resulting in at least $[______] of [gross] proceeds[, net of the underwriting discount and commissions,] to the Corporation and in connection with such offering the shares of Common Stock are listed for trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market, the New York Stock Exchange or another exchange or marketplace approved by the [Requisite Directors] (a “Qualified IPO”); [(ii) immediately prior to the effectiveness of the registration statement in connection with the initial listing of the Common Stock (or other equity securities of the Corporation) on the Nasdaq Stock Market, New York Stock Exchange or another exchange or marketplace approved by the [Requisite Directors] by means of an effective registration statement filed by the Corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission, without a related underwritten offering of such Common Stock (or other equity securities)[, for which the Board of Directors, in its sole discretion, determines that the Corporation is expected to have a market capitalization equal to or greater than $[__________] at any time on the first day of trading] (a “Qualified Direct Listing”);] and the date and time, or upon the occurrence of an event, specified by vote or written consent of the Requisite Holders.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 5.1; drafting notes 61, 62, 63, 64.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

F.4 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 5.2

The mandatory-conversion procedure provides notice and ends preferred rights at the conversion time.

Procedural Requirements. All holders of record of shares of Preferred Stock (or the applicable series thereof) shall be sent written notice of the Mandatory Conversion Time and the place designated for mandatory conversion of all such shares of Preferred Stock pursuant to this Section 5. Such notice need not be sent in advance of the occurrence of the Mandatory Conversion Time. Upon receipt of such notice, each holder of shares of Preferred Stock being converted that holds such shares of Preferred Stock in certificated form shall surrender his, her or its certificate or certificates for all such shares (or, if such holder alleges that such certificate has been lost, stolen or destroyed, a lost certificate affidavit and agreement reasonably acceptable to the Corporation to indemnify the Corporation against any claim that may be made against the Corporation on account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of such certificate) to the Corporation at the place designated in such notice. If so required by the Corporation, any certificates surrendered for conversion shall be endorsed or accompanied by written instrument or instruments of transfer, in form satisfactory to the Corporation, duly executed by the registered holder or by his, her or its attorney duly authorized in writing. All rights with respect to the Preferred Stock converted pursuant to Section 5.1, including the rights, if any, to receive notices and vote (other than as a holder of Common Stock), will terminate at the Mandatory Conversion Time (notwithstanding the failure of the holder or holders thereof to surrender any certificates at or prior to such time), except only the rights of the holders thereof, upon surrender of any certificate or certificates of such holders (or lost certificate affidavit and agreement) therefor, to receive the items provided for in the next sentence of this Section 5.2. As soon as practicable after the Mandatory Conversion Time and, if applicable, the surrender of any certificate or certificates (or lost certificate affidavit and agreement) for Preferred Stock, the Corporation shall (a) issue and deliver to such holder, or to his, her or its nominees, a certificate or certificates for the number of full shares of Common Stock issuable on such conversion in accordance with the provisions hereof or issue and deliver to such holder, or to his, her or its nominees, a notice of issuance of uncertificated shares and may, upon written request, issue and deliver a certificate for the number of full shares of Common Stock issuable upon such conversion in accordance with the provisions hereof; and (b) pay any declared but unpaid dividends on the shares of Preferred Stock converted.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 5.2.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

F.6 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 5A.1

The optional pay-to-play provision converts a nonparticipating holder’s selected shares on consummation of a qualified financing.

In the event that any holder of shares of Preferred Stock does not participate in a Qualified Financing (as defined below) by purchasing in the aggregate, in such Qualified Financing and within the time period specified by the Corporation (provided that, the Corporation has sent to each holder of Preferred Stock at least 10 days written notice of, and the opportunity to purchase its Pro Rata Amount (as defined below) of, the Qualified Financing), such holder’s Pro Rata Amount, [then each share] [then the Applicable Portion (as defined below) of the shares] of Preferred Stock held by such holder shall automatically, and without any further action on the part of such holder, be converted into shares of Common Stock at the applicable Conversion Price in effect immediately prior to the consummation of such Qualified Financing, effective upon, subject to, and concurrently with, the consummation of the Qualified Financing.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 5A.1; drafting notes 65, 66, 67, 68, 69.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

F.7 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 5A.3

The qualified-financing definition contains proceeds, down-round, and opt-out choices.

“Qualified Financing” shall mean any transaction involving the issuance or sale of Additional Shares of Common Stock after the Original Issue Date [that would result in at least $_______ in gross proceeds to the Corporation, [including/excluding] proceeds previously received by Corporation for debt that is being cancelled or converted in connection with such issuance] [or result in the reduction of the Conversion Price of any series of Preferred Stock pursuant to the terms of this Certificate of Incorporation (without giving effect to the operation of Section 4.4.2]], unless the [Requisite Holders] elect, by written notice sent to the Corporation at least [__] days prior to the consummation of the Qualified Financing, that such transaction not be treated as a Qualified Financing for purposes of this Section 5A.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 5A.3.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

F.8 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.1.1

The optional conversion suspension preserves the voting and liquidation calculations while it operates.

[Notwithstanding the foregoing and notwithstanding Section 4.3.1, the optional right to convert shares of Preferred Stock into shares of Common Stock pursuant to the first sentence of this Section 4.1.1 shall be suspended, and no optional conversion may be effective, from and after the date the Corporation delivers (pursuant to Section 5A.1 below) notice of a Qualified Financing (as defined below) until immediately after the earlier of (x) consummation of the Qualified Financing and the associated Special Mandatory Conversion or (y) termination of the Qualified Financing; provided, however, that the foregoing limitation on the right to optionally convert shares into Common Stock pursuant to this Section 4.1.1 shall not affect the calculation of the number of shares deemed issuable upon conversion of such shares for purposes of (A) voting rights under this Certificate of Incorporation, or (B) determining amounts payable in respect of shares of Preferred Stock in connection with a dissolution, liquidation, or winding up of the Corporation or pursuant to a Deemed Liquidation Event.]

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 4.1.1; drafting note 47.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

F.2 Seaport filed charter — 5.1(a)

The filed charter specifies price, proceeds and listing conditions for an IPO conversion trigger.

(a) immediately prior to the closing of the sale of shares of Common Stock to the public at a price of at least $5.70 per share (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Common Stock), in a firm-commitment underwritten public offering pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), resulting in at least $100,000,000 of gross proceeds to the Corporation and in connection with such offering the shares of Common Stock are listed for trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market, the New York Stock Exchange or another exchange or marketplace approved by the Requisite Directors; and 22 (b) the date and time, or upon the occurrence of an event, specified by vote or written consent of the Requisite Holders and the Series B Majority.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 5.1(a). This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

F.3 Seaport filed charter — 5.1(b)

The filed charter permits a mandatory-conversion trigger selected by specified holders.

5.1 Trigger Events . All outstanding shares of Preferred Stock shall automatically be converted into shares of Common Stock, at the then effective conversion rate as calculated pursuant to Sections 4.1.1 and 4.2 , upon the earliest to occur of (the time of such conversion is referred to herein as the “ Mandatory Conversion Time ”): (a) immediately prior to the closing of the sale of shares of Common Stock to the public at a price of at least $5.70 per share (subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Common Stock), in a firm-commitment underwritten public offering pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), resulting in at least $100,000,000 of gross proceeds to the Corporation and in connection with such offering the shares of Common Stock are listed for trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market, the New York Stock Exchange or another exchange or marketplace approved by the Requisite Directors; and 22 (b) the date and time, or upon the occurrence of an event, specified by vote or written consent of the Requisite Holders and the Series B Majority.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 5.1(b). This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

F.5 Seaport filed charter — 5.2

The filed charter requires notice of the mandatory conversion time.

5.2 Procedural Requirements . All holders of record of shares of Preferred Stock shall be sent written notice of the Mandatory Conversion Time and the place designated for mandatory conversion of all such shares of Preferred Stock pursuant to this Section 5 . Such notice need not be sent in advance of the occurrence of the Mandatory Conversion Time. Upon receipt of such notice, each holder of shares of Preferred Stock being converted that holds such shares of Preferred Stock in certificated form shall surrender his, her or its certificate or certificates for all such shares (or, if such holder alleges that such certificate has been lost, stolen or destroyed, a lost certificate affidavit and agreement reasonably acceptable to the Corporation to indemnify the Corporation against any claim that may be made against the Corporation on account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of such certificate) to the Corporation at the place designated in such notice. If so required by the Corporation, any certificates surrendered for conversion shall be endorsed or accompanied by written instrument or instruments of transfer, in form satisfactory to the Corporation, duly executed by the registered holder or by his, her or its attorney duly authorized in writing. All rights with respect to the Preferred Stock converted pursuant to Section 5.1 , including the rights, if any, to receive notices and vote (other than as a holder of Common Stock), will terminate at the Mandatory Conversion Time (notwithstanding the failure of the holder or holders thereof to surrender any certificates at or prior to such time), except only the rights of the holders thereof, upon surrender of any certificate or certificates of such holders (or lost certificate affidavit and agreement) therefor, to receive the items provided for in the next sentence of this Section 5.2 . As soon as practicable after the Mandatory Conversion Time and, if applicable, the surrender of any certificate or certificates (or lost certificate affidavit and agreement) for Preferred Stock, the Corporation shall (a) issue and deliver to such holder of Preferred Stock, or to his, her or its nominees, a certificate or certificates for the number of full shares of Common Stock issuable upon such conversion in accordance with the provisions hereof, and (b) pay any declared but unpaid dividends on the shares of Preferred Stock converted.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 5.2. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

0 of 7 checked

Redemption and Continuing Preferred Terms

7.1One redemption electionRecommended (SHOULD)

Choose the no-redemption alternative or a negotiated § 6 redemption right and remove the unused alternative. Preserve the distinction between investor-requested redemption and redemption after a Deemed Liquidation Event. NVCA’s note describes redemption rights as uncommon in early-stage financings, not prohibited.

7.2Optional redemption price and scheduleOptional (MAY)

If redemption rights are included, fill the first request date, holder threshold, price and dividend treatment, and installment schedule. Resolve any fair-market-value process, priority among series, and opt-out election. Ask tax and accounting advisers to assess the chosen economics rather than assuming all price alternatives have the same consequences.

7.3Lawful funds, shortfalls, and remediesOptional (MAY)

If redemption rights are included, preserve the limitation imposed by Delaware distribution law, ratable treatment of a shortfall, and the obligation to redeem remaining shares when lawful. Review negotiated remedies and any use-of-funds controls; a stated payment date does not establish that the company can lawfully pay.

7.4Redemption notice, conversion cutoff, and surrenderOptional (MAY)

If redemption rights are included, reconcile the notice lead time, dates and price, voluntary-conversion cutoff, certificate surrender, and any Excluded Shares election. Preserve the condition that preferred rights end only after the specified payment, tender, or deposit.

7.5Optional interest on unpaid redemptionOptional (MAY)

If the interest provision is negotiated, resolve the initial rate, monthly escalation, compounding interval, and lawful-rate limit. Review whether it applies when redemption is unpaid for any reason; NVCA’s note explains why a trigger limited to default may not reach a legally deferred payment.

7.6Cancellation and retirementRecommended (SHOULD)

Check cancellation, retirement, reissuance approval, and the prohibition on the company or subsidiaries exercising rights on acquired preferred shares. Reconcile the cap table and any subsequent reduction in authorized preferred.

7.7Waivers and delivery of noticesRecommended (SHOULD)

Review § 8’s amendment-equivalent waiver threshold and its series-specific treatment. Check § 9’s mail and electronic-transmission provisions against current holder records and applicable delivery requirements. Reconcile these general provisions with the special notices in conversion and redemption.

Source scope: The sources illustrate the clauses. Checking actual approvals, recipients and delivery against the transaction record is reviewer synthesis, not a fact established by the example.

Sources for this section

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

G.3 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 6.1

The optional redemption obligation is expressly subject to Delaware distribution limits.

Unless prohibited by Delaware law governing distributions to stockholders, shares of Preferred Stock shall be redeemed by the Corporation at a price per share of such Preferred Stock equal to [the greater of (A)][the applicable Original Issue Price, plus all declared but unpaid dividends thereon][and (B) the Fair Market Value (determined in the manner set forth below) of such share of Preferred Stock as of the date of the Corporation’s receipt of the Redemption Request] (the “Redemption Price”), in three annual installments commencing not more than 60 days after receipt by the Corporation at any time on or after [_____________] from the Requisite Holders of written notice requesting redemption of all shares of Preferred Stock (the “Redemption Request”).

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 6.1; drafting notes 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

G.4 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 6.2

The optional redemption provision requires notice at least 40 days before each redemption date.

The Corporation shall send written notice of the mandatory redemption (the “Redemption Notice”) to each holder of record of Preferred Stock not less than 40 days prior to each Redemption Date.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 6.2.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

G.5 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 6.2, Excluded Shares alternative

The bracketed alternative allows a holder to elect exclusion within the specified notice period.

[If the Corporation receives, on or prior to the 20th day after the date of delivery of the Redemption Notice to a holder of Preferred Stock, written notice from such holder that such holder elects to be excluded from the redemption provided in this Section 6, then the shares of Preferred Stock registered on the books of the Corporation in the name of such holder at the time of the Corporation’s receipt of such notice shall thereafter be “Excluded Shares.” Excluded Shares shall not be redeemed or redeemable pursuant to this Section 6, whether on such Redemption Date or thereafter.]

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 6.2, Excluded Shares alternative; drafting note 83.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

G.6 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 6.3

Certificated shares must be surrendered or supported by acceptable lost-certificate documentation for redemption payment.

On or before the applicable Redemption Date, each holder of shares of Preferred Stock to be redeemed on such Redemption Date, unless such holder has exercised his, her or its right to convert such shares as provided in Section 4, shall, if a holder of shares in certificated form, surrender the certificate or certificates representing such shares (or, if such registered holder alleges that such certificate has been lost, stolen or destroyed, a lost certificate affidavit and agreement reasonably acceptable to the Corporation to indemnify the Corporation against any claim that may be made against the Corporation on account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of such certificate) to the Corporation, in the manner and at the place designated in the Redemption Notice, and thereupon the Redemption Price for such shares shall be payable to the order of the person whose name appears on such certificate or certificates as the owner thereof.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 6.3.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

G.7 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 6.5

Termination of preferred rights after redemption depends on notice and timely payment, tender or deposit.

If the Redemption Notice shall have been duly given, and if on the applicable Redemption Date the Redemption Price payable upon redemption of the shares of Preferred Stock to be redeemed on such Redemption Date is paid or tendered for payment or deposited with an independent payment agent so as to be available therefor in a timely manner, then notwithstanding that any certificates evidencing any of the shares of Preferred Stock so called for redemption shall not have been surrendered, dividends with respect to such shares of Preferred Stock shall cease to accrue after such Redemption Date and all rights with respect to such shares shall forthwith after the Redemption Date terminate, except only the right of the holders to receive the Redemption Price without interest upon surrender of any such certificate or certificates therefor.]

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 6.5.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

G.8 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 6.4

The optional interest provision is triggered by a failure to redeem for any reason.

If any shares of Preferred Stock are not redeemed for any reason on any Redemption Date, all such unredeemed shares shall remain outstanding and entitled to all the rights and preferences provided herein, and the Corporation shall pay interest on the Redemption Price applicable to such unredeemed shares at an aggregate per annum rate equal to [12]% (increased by 1% each month following the Redemption Date until the Redemption Price, and any interest thereon, is paid in full), with such interest to accrue daily in arrears and be compounded [annually]; provided, however, that in no event shall such interest exceed the maximum permitted rate of interest under applicable law (the “Maximum Permitted Rate”), provided, however, that the Corporation shall take all such actions as may be necessary, including, without limitation, making any applicable governmental filings, to cause the Maximum Permitted Rate to be the highest possible rate.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 6.4; drafting note 85.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

G.9 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourth, Part B, § 7

The model cancels acquired preferred shares unless the board and requisite holders approve otherwise.

Unless approved by the Board of Directors and the Requisite Holders, any shares of Preferred Stock that are redeemed, converted or otherwise acquired by the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries shall be automatically and immediately cancelled and retired and shall not be reissued, sold or transferred.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 7.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

G.11 NVCA model — Part B, § 8

Waivers use the amendment constituency, including series-specific treatment.

Except as otherwise set forth herein, (a) any of the rights, powers, preferences and other terms of the Preferred Stock set forth herein may be waived on behalf of all holders of Preferred Stock by the affirmative written consent or vote of the holders that would otherwise be required to amend such right, powers, preferences, and other terms and (b) at any time more than one series of Preferred Stock is issued and outstanding, any of the rights, powers, preferences and other terms of any series of Preferred Stock set forth herein may be waived on behalf of all holders of such series of Preferred Stock by the affirmative written consent or vote of the holders of such series that would otherwise be required to amend such right, power, preference, or other term.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 8.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

G.12 NVCA model — Part B, § 9

General notices permit mailing or statutory electronic transmission.

Any notice required or permitted by the provisions of this Article Fourth to be given to a holder of shares of Preferred Stock shall be mailed, postage prepaid, to the post office address last shown on the records of the Corporation, or given by electronic transmission in compliance with the provisions of the General Corporation Law, and shall be deemed sent upon such mailing or electronic transmission.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourth, Part B, § 9.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

G.2 Seaport filed charter — 6

The filed charter excludes optional redemption except for its disposition mechanism.

6. Redemption . Other than as set forth in Article Fourth , Part B , Section 2.3.2(b) , the Preferred Stock is not redeemable at the option of the holder or the Corporation.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 6. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

G.10 Seaport filed charter — 7

The filed charter addresses cancellation and retirement of acquired preferred shares.

7. Redeemed or Otherwise Acquired Shares . Unless approved by the Board of Directors and the Requisite Holders, any shares of Preferred Stock that are redeemed, converted or otherwise acquired by the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries shall be automatically and immediately cancelled and retired and shall not be reissued, sold or transferred. Neither the Corporation nor any of its subsidiaries may exercise any voting or other rights granted to the holders of Preferred Stock following redemption, conversion or acquisition. The Corporation may thereafter take such appropriate action (without the need for stockholder action) as may be necessary to reduce the authorized number of shares of Preferred Stock accordingly.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), 7. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

G.13 Seaport filed charter — §§ 8–9

The filed charter specifies waiver approvals and delivery rules for Article Fourth notices.

8. Waiver . Except as otherwise set forth herein, (a) any of the rights, powers, preferences and other terms of the Preferred Stock set forth herein may be waived on behalf of all holders of Preferred Stock by the affirmative written consent or vote of the holders that would otherwise be required to amend such right, powers, preferences, and other terms and (b) at any time more than one series of Preferred Stock is issued and outstanding, any of the rights, powers, preferences and other terms of any series of Preferred Stock set forth herein may be waived on behalf of all holders of such series of Preferred Stock by the affirmative written consent or vote of the holders of such series that would otherwise be required to amend such right, power, preference, or other term. 23 9. Notices . Any notice required or permitted by the provisions of this Article Fourth to be given to a holder of shares of Preferred Stock shall be mailed, postage prepaid, to the post office address last shown on the records of the Corporation, or given by electronic transmission in compliance with the provisions of the General Corporation Law, and shall be deemed sent upon such mailing or electronic transmission.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), §§ 8–9. These clauses illustrate the identified mechanics, not a completed transaction review or market prevalence.

0 of 8 checked

Governance and Filing Package

8.1Bylaws and general governance articlesRecommended (SHOULD)

Review Articles Fifth through Eighth for board authority to amend bylaws, the method for determining board size, ballot requirements, meeting location, and corporate books. Reconcile these provisions with preferred consent rights, the Voting Agreement, and the actual bylaws.

8.2Director and optional officer exculpationRecommended (SHOULD)

Check Article Ninth and deliberately resolve the officer election. Preserve its limitation to what applicable law permits and its protection for prior conduct after a later amendment. Ask counsel to confirm the statutory exclusions; officer protection does not simply duplicate every aspect of director protection.

8.3Indemnification authority or mandatory rightsRecommended (SHOULD)

Distinguish Article Tenth’s authorization from Exhibit A’s mandatory alternative. If the alternative is used, review covered officers, advancement and repayment undertakings, claim enforcement, discretionary employee coverage, other recoveries, insurance, and protection against retroactive repeal. Reconcile the selected text with bylaws and individual indemnification agreements.

8.4Scope of the opportunity renunciationRecommended (SHOULD)

Review the Covered Persons and Excluded Opportunity definitions, the director-capacity exception, and the amendment threshold. NVCA’s note identifies this as an investor-favorable example requiring tailoring. Confirm which opportunities the company is surrendering before accepting it as boilerplate.

8.5Optional exclusive forumOptional (MAY)

If retained, check the covered claims, Chancery jurisdiction, indispensable-party and exclusive-jurisdiction exceptions, and the company’s alternative-forum consent. Have counsel evaluate the clause against applicable law and the intended claims; avoid describing it as a universal bar on litigation elsewhere.

8.6Severability and optional California repurchase provisionOptional (MAY)

Retain coherent severability language in Article Thirteenth. Where California contacts warrant analysis, ask counsel to assess Article Fourteenth’s limited treatment of specified service-related repurchases and the necessary approvals. Do not treat that election as a blanket waiver of solvency or distribution restrictions.

8.7Adoption, execution, and filing sequenceRequired (MUST)

Verify adoption, execution and filing effectiveness under the applicable DGCL procedure before using the new charter as the basis for issuance. Reconcile approvals with the existing charter; a pure restatement and a restatement that also amends it have different adoption rules. Check the § 228(e) certification if written consent was used and its prompt-notice requirement after less-than-unanimous consent, the §§ 242 and 245 adoption certification, the authorized officer’s signature and date, and any delayed Delaware filing effectiveness before issuing shares under the new charter.

8.8Final package and companion-document consistencyRecommended (SHOULD)

Remove unused alternatives, drafting instructions, and model footnotes from the filing copy. Check every cross-reference after renumbering, including § 5A if omitted. Compare series names, issue price, consent thresholds, and conversion mechanics across the term sheet, SPA, Investors’ Rights Agreement, Voting Agreement, and final capitalization schedule.

Source scope: Model note 47 supports defined-term tailoring for the pay-to-play proviso. Removing unused model text and comparing the complete financing package are reviewer synthesis; Seaport’s adoption certification does not establish that those review steps occurred.

Sources for this section

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

H.4 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Ninth

The model permits a deliberate election to extend exculpation to officers within applicable law.

To the fullest extent permitted by law, a director [or officer] of the Corporation shall not be personally liable to the Corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director [or officer].

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Ninth; drafting note 86.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

H.6 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Tenth

Article Tenth authorizes indemnification and advancement; Exhibit A supplies an alternative mandatory structure.

To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the Corporation is authorized to provide indemnification of (and advancement of expenses to) directors, officers and agents of the Corporation (and any other persons to which the General Corporation Law permits the Corporation to provide indemnification) through Bylaw provisions, agreements with such agents or other persons, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, in excess of the indemnification and advancement otherwise permitted by Section 145 of the General Corporation Law.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Tenth; drafting notes 87, 92.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

H.8 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Eleventh

The corporate-opportunities provision renounces the corporation’s interest in defined excluded opportunities.

The Corporation renounces, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any interest or expectancy of the Corporation in, or in being offered an opportunity to participate in, any Excluded Opportunity.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Eleventh; drafting note 88.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

H.10 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Twelfth

The optional forum provision identifies covered claims and exceptions to Chancery exclusivity.

[Unless the Corporation consents in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the Court of Chancery in the State of Delaware shall be the sole and exclusive forum for any stockholder (including a beneficial owner) to bring (i) any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of the Corporation, (ii) any action asserting a claim of breach of fiduciary duty owed by any director, officer or other employee of the Corporation to the Corporation or the Corporation’s stockholders, (iii) any action asserting a claim against the Corporation, its directors, officers or employees arising pursuant to any provision of the General Corporation Law or the Corporation’s certificate of incorporation or bylaws or (iv) any action asserting a claim against the Corporation, its directors, officers or employees governed by the internal affairs doctrine or that otherwise relates to the internal affairs of the Corporation, except for, as to each of (i) through (iv) above, any claim as to which the Court of Chancery determines that there is an indispensable party not subject to the jurisdiction of the Court of Chancery (and the indispensable party does not consent to the personal jurisdiction of the Court of Chancery within 10 days following such determination), which is vested in the exclusive jurisdiction of a court or forum other than the Court of Chancery, or for which the Court of Chancery does not have subject matter jurisdiction.]

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Twelfth; drafting note 89.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

H.11 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — Article Fourteenth

The optional provision addresses specified service-related repurchases for California distribution calculations.

[For purposes of Section 500 of the California Corporations Code (to the extent applicable), in connection with any repurchase of shares of Common Stock permitted under this Certificate of Incorporation from employees, officers, directors or consultants of the Corporation in connection with a termination of employment or services pursuant to agreements or arrangements approved by the Board of Directors (in addition to any other consent required under this Certificate of Incorporation), such repurchase may be made without regard to any “preferential dividends arrears amount” or “preferential rights amount” (as those terms are defined in Section 500 of the California Corporations Code). Accordingly, for purposes of making any calculation under California Corporations Code Section 500 in connection with such repurchase, the amount of any “preferential dividends arrears amount” or “preferential rights amount” (as those terms are defined therein) shall be deemed to be zero.]

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fourteenth; drafting note 90.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

H.12 NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation — closing adoption certification

The form certifies adoption under the DGCL amendment and restatement provisions.

That this Certificate of Incorporation, which restates and integrates and further amends the provisions of the Corporation’s Certificate of Incorporation, has been duly adopted in accordance with Sections 242 and 245 of the General Corporation Law.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), closing adoption certification; drafting notes 2, 91.

Primary source · Primary law

H.13 DGCL § 245(b) — adoption procedure

Section 245(b) distinguishes a pure restatement from a restatement that further amends the certificate.

(b) If the restated certificate of incorporation merely restates and integrates but does not further amend the certificate of incorporation, as theretofore amended or supplemented by any instrument that was filed pursuant to any of the sections mentioned in § 104 of this title, it may be adopted by the board of directors without a vote of the stockholders, or it may be proposed by the directors and submitted by them to the stockholders for adoption, in which case the procedure and vote required, if any, by § 242 of this title for amendment of the certificate of incorporation shall be applicable. If the restated certificate of incorporation restates and integrates and also further amends in any respect the certificate of incorporation, as theretofore amended or supplemented, it shall be proposed by the directors and adopted by the stockholders in the manner and by the vote prescribed by § 242 of this title or, if the corporation has not received any payment for any of its stock, in the manner and by the vote prescribed by § 241 of this title.

See 8 Del. C. § 245(b).

Primary source · Primary law

H.15 DGCL § 103(d) — filing and delayed effectiveness

Section 103(d) permits filing effectiveness or a specified later effective time within its stated limit.

(d) Any instrument filed in accordance with subsection (c) of this section shall be effective upon its filing date. Any instrument may provide that it is not to become effective until a specified time subsequent to the time it is filed, but such time shall not be later than a time on the ninetieth day after the date of its filing.

See 8 Del. C. § 103(d).

Primary source · Primary law

H.14 DGCL § 103(a)(2) — execution after incorporation

Section 103(a)(2) specifies who signs instruments other than the initial incorporation instruments.

(2) All other instruments shall be signed: a. By any authorized officer of the corporation; or b. If it shall appear from the instrument that there are no such officers, then by a majority of the directors or by such directors as may be designated by the board; or c. If it shall appear from the instrument that there are no such officers or directors, then by the holders of record, or such of them as may be designated by the holders of record, of a majority of all outstanding shares of stock; or d. By the holders of record of all outstanding shares of stock.

See 8 Del. C. § 103(a)(2).

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

H.1 NVCA model — Article Fifth

The board bylaw power remains subject to additional votes required by the charter or bylaws.

Subject to any additional vote required by this Certificate of Incorporation or the Bylaws of the Corporation, in furtherance and not in limitation of the powers conferred by statute, the Board of Directors is expressly authorized to make, repeal, alter, amend and rescind any or all of the Bylaws of the Corporation.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Article Fifth.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

H.2 Seaport filed charter — Articles Fifth–Eighth

The filed charter addresses bylaw amendment, board-size determination, ballots, meeting location and corporate books, with stated voting qualifications.

FIFTH : Subject to any additional vote required by this Certificate of Incorporation or the Bylaws of the Corporation, in furtherance and not in limitation of the powers conferred by statute, the Board of Directors is expressly authorized to make, repeal, alter, amend and rescind any or all of the Bylaws of the Corporation. SIXTH : Subject to any additional vote required by this Certificate of Incorporation, the number of directors of the Corporation shall be determined in the manner set forth in the Bylaws of the Corporation, Each director shall be entitled to one vote on each matter presented to the Board of Directors; provided, however, that, for so long as the holders of Preferred Stock are entitled to elect a Preferred Director, the approval of the Requisite Directors shall be required hereunder for the authorization by the Board of Directors of any matter that requires the Requisite Director Vote under the terms of the Investors’ Rights Agreement, to the extent that Preferred Directors are then serving. SEVENTH : Elections of directors need not be by written ballot unless the Bylaws of the Corporation shall so provide. EIGHTH : Meetings of stockholders may be held within or outside of the State of Delaware, as the Bylaws of the Corporation may provide. The books of the Corporation may be kept (subject to any provision of applicable law) outside of the State of Delaware at such place or places or in such manner or manners as may be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors or in the Bylaws of the Corporation.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), Articles Fifth–Eighth. These clauses illustrate the identified mechanics, not a completed transaction review or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

H.5 Seaport filed charter — Article Ninth

The filed charter provides director and officer exculpation to the fullest extent permitted by law.

NINTH : To the fullest extent permitted by law, a director or officer of the Corporation shall not be personally liable to the Corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director or officer. If the General Corporation Law or any other law of the State of Delaware is amended after approval by the stockholders of this Article Ninth to authorize corporate action further eliminating or limiting the personal liability of directors or officers, then the liability of a director or officer of the Corporation shall be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by the General Corporation Law as so amended.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), Article Ninth. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

H.7 Seaport filed charter — Article Tenth

The filed charter authorizes indemnification and advancement arrangements.

TENTH : To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the Corporation is authorized to provide indemnification of (and advancement of expenses to) directors, officers and agents of the Corporation (and any other persons to which the General Corporation Law permits the Corporation to provide indemnification) through Bylaw provisions, agreements with such agents or other persons, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, in excess of the indemnification and advancement otherwise permitted by Section 145 of the General Corporation Law.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), Article Tenth. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

H.9 Seaport filed charter — Article Eleventh

The filed charter renounces interests in defined excluded opportunities.

ELEVENTH : The Corporation renounces, to the fullest extent permitted by law, any interest or expectancy of the Corporation in, or in being offered an opportunity to participate in, any Excluded Opportunity. An “ Excluded Opportunity ” is any matter, transaction or interest that is presented to, or acquired, created or developed by, or which otherwise comes into the possession of (i) any director of the Corporation who is not an employee of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries, or (ii) any holder of Preferred Stock or any partner, member, director, stockholder, employee, affiliate or agent of any such holder, other than someone who is an officer or employee of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries (collectively, the persons referred to in clauses (i) and (ii) are “ Covered Persons ”), unless such matter, transaction or interest is presented to, or acquired, created or developed by, or otherwise comes into the possession of, a Covered Person expressly and solely in such Covered Person’s capacity as a director of the Corporation while such Covered Person is performing services in such capacity. Any repeal or modification of this Article Eleventh will only be prospective and will not affect the rights under this Article Eleventh in effect at the time of the occurrence of any actions or omissions to act giving rise to liability. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained elsewhere in this Certificate of Incorporation, in addition to any other vote required by law or this Certificate of Incorporation, the affirmative vote of (i) the Requisite Holders and (ii) the holders of at least 80% of the outstanding shares of Series B Preferred Stock, will be required to amend or repeal, or to adopt any provisions inconsistent with this Article Eleventh .

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), Article Eleventh. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

H.17 Seaport filed charter — completed introductory certifications and Article Fourth

The filed charter certifies adoption under DGCL Sections 242 and 245.

4. That this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, which restates and integrates and further amends the provisions of the Corporation’s Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, has been duly adopted in accordance with Sections 242 and 245 of the General Corporation Law.

See Seaport Therapeutics, Inc., amended and restated certificate (executed Oct. 17, 2024; filed Apr. 10, 2026), completed introductory certifications and Article Fourth. This excerpt illustrates the stated clause; it does not establish every aspect of the checklist review task or market prevalence.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

H.18 NVCA model — drafting note 47

In its pay-to-play conversion-block note, the model calls for updating the defined terms used in that bracketed provision to fit the specific circumstances.

If a “pay-to-play” is implemented/contemplated, consider blocking optional conversion during its pendency with language such as this bracketed provision. This is also applicable where the pay-to-play relates to tranches in a financing where later tranches are mandatory. Because the voting rights of the Preferred stock and its rights to proceeds in the event of a liquidation, dissolution, winding up, or Deemed Liquidation Event flow from its optional conversion rights under Section 4.1, the last proviso is important to avoid ambiguity over the status of those rights during any period in which optional conversion rights are suspended. Careful attention should be paid to update and use appropriate defined terms that apply in the specific circumstances.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), drafting note 47, on the § 4.1 pay-to-play proviso. The defined-term instruction is specific to that provision; it is not a general package-review step.

Lawyer commentary · Commentary

H.3 NVCA model — Articles Sixth–Eighth

The model addresses board-size determination, written ballots, stockholder meeting location and corporate books.

Subject to any additional vote required by this Certificate of Incorporation, the number of directors of the Corporation shall be determined in the manner set forth in the Bylaws of the Corporation. : Elections of directors need not be by written ballot unless the Bylaws of the Corporation shall so provide. : Meetings of stockholders may be held within or outside of the State of Delaware, as the Bylaws of the Corporation may provide. The books of the Corporation may be kept (subject to any provision of applicable law) outside of the State of Delaware at such place or places or in such manner or manners as may be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors or in the Bylaws of the Corporation.

See NVCA Model Certificate of Incorporation (Oct. 1, 2025), Articles Sixth–Eighth.