S-1
Table of Contents

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 20, 2021

Registration No. 333-

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM S-1

REGISTRATION STATEMENT

Under

THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

 

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Delaware   2834   83-1476348
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  (Primary Standard Industrial
Classification Code Number)
 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification Number)

2656 State Street

Carlsbad, CA 92008

(619) 728-4760

(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of registrant’s principal executive offices)

 

 

Todd Harris, Ph.D.

President and Chief Executive Officer

Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

2656 State Street

Carlsbad, California 92008

(619) 728-4760

(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)

 

 

Copies to:

 

Matthew T. Bush

Cheston J. Larson

Jeffrey T. Woodley

Latham & Watkins LLP
12670 High Bluff Drive

San Diego, California 92130

(858) 523-5400

 

Frank F. Rahmani

Samir A. Gandhi

Alexander E. Csordas

Sidley Austin LLP

555 California Street, Suite 2000

San Francisco, CA 94104

(650) 565-7000

 

 

Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public: As soon as practicable after the effective date of this registration statement.

If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, check the following box.  ☐

If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.  ☐

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.  ☐

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large Accelerated Filer      Accelerated Filer  
Non-Accelerated Filer      Smaller Reporting Company  
     Emerging Growth Company  

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided to Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act.  ☐

 

 

CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE

 

 

 

Title of each Class of
Securities to be Registered
  Proposed
Maximum
Aggregate
Offering Price(1)
  Amount of
Registration Fee(2)

Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share

  $100,000,000   $10,910

 

 

(1)

Estimated solely for the purpose of calculating the registration fee pursuant to Rule 457(o) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Includes the offering price of shares that the underwriters may purchase pursuant to an option to purchase additional shares.

(2)

Calculated pursuant to Rule 457(o) based on an estimate of the proposed maximum aggregate offering price.

 

 

The registrant hereby amends this registration statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the registrant shall file a further amendment that specifically states that this registration statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or until this registration statement shall become effective on such date as the Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.

 

 

 


Table of Contents

The information in this preliminary prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This preliminary prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state or other jurisdiction where the offer or sale is not permitted.

 

Subject to Completion,

Preliminary Prospectus dated August 20, 2021

PROSPECTUS

             Shares

 

LOGO

Common Stock

 

 

This is Tyra Biosciences, Inc.’s initial public offering. We are selling              shares of our common stock.

Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for our common stock. It is currently estimated that the initial public offering price per share will be between $             and $            . We intend to list our common stock on the Nasdaq Global Market under the symbol “TYRA.”

We are an emerging growth company under the federal securities laws and are subject to reduced public company disclosure standards. See “Prospectus Summary—Implications of Being an Emerging Growth Company and a Smaller Reporting Company.”

Investing in the common stock involves risks that are described in the “Risk Factors” section beginning on page 11 of this prospectus.

 

 

 

    

Per Share

      

    Total    

 

Public offering price

   $          $    

Underwriting discount(1)

   $          $    

Proceeds, before expenses, to us

   $          $    
  (1)

We refer you to the “Underwriting” section of this prospectus for additional information regarding underwriting compensation.

The underwriters may also exercise their option to purchase up to an additional              shares from us, at the public offering price, less the underwriting discount, for 30 days after the date of this prospectus.

Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

The shares will be ready for delivery on or about                         , 2021.

 

 

 

BofA Securities    Jefferies    Cowen

 

 

The date of this prospectus is                    , 2021.


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

     1  

THE OFFERING

     7  

SUMMARY FINANCIAL DATA

     9  

RISK FACTORS

     11  

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

     74  

INDUSTRY AND OTHER DATA

     76  

USE OF PROCEEDS

     77  

DIVIDEND POLICY

     79  

CAPITALIZATION

     80  

DILUTION

     82  

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

     85  

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATION

     86  

BUSINESS

     99  

MANAGEMENT

     141  

EXECUTIVE AND DIRECTOR COMPENSATION

     150  

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

     168  

PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS

     172  

DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK

     175  

SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE

     180  

MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS FOR NON-U.S. HOLDERS OF COMMON STOCK

     183  

UNDERWRITING

     187  

LEGAL MATTERS

     196  

EXPERTS

     196  

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

     196  

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

     F-1  

Neither we nor the underwriters have authorized anyone to provide any information or to make any representations other than those contained in this prospectus or in any free writing prospectuses prepared by or on behalf of us or to which we have referred you. We take no responsibility for, and can provide no assurance as to the reliability of, any other information that others may give you. This prospectus is an offer to sell only the shares of common stock offered hereby, but only under circumstances and in jurisdictions where it is lawful to do so. The information contained in this prospectus or in any applicable free writing prospectus related thereto is current only as of its date, regardless of its time of delivery or any sale of shares of our common stock. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since that date.

For investors outside the United States: Neither we nor the underwriters have done anything that would permit this offering or possession or distribution of this prospectus in any jurisdiction where action for that purpose is required, other than in the United States. Persons outside the United States who come into possession of this prospectus must inform themselves about, and observe any restrictions relating to, the offering of the shares of common stock and the distribution of this prospectus outside the United States.

We have proprietary rights to trademarks, trade names and service marks appearing in this prospectus that are important to our business. Solely for convenience, the trademarks, trade names and service marks may appear in this prospectus without the ® and symbols, but any such references are not intended to indicate, in any way, that we forgo or will not assert, to the fullest extent under applicable law, our rights or the rights of the applicable licensors to these trademarks, trade names and service marks. All trademarks, trade names and service marks appearing in this prospectus are the property of their respective owners. We do not intend our use or display of other parties’ trademarks, trade names or service marks to imply, and such use or display should not be construed to imply, a relationship with, or endorsement or sponsorship of us by, these other parties.

 

-i-


Table of Contents

PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

This summary highlights information contained elsewhere in this prospectus and does not contain all of the information that you should consider in making your investment decision. Before investing in our common stock, you should carefully read this entire prospectus, including our financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus. You should also consider, among other things, the matters described under “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” in each case appearing elsewhere in this prospectus. Unless the context otherwise requires, the terms “Tyra,” “Tyra Biosciences,” “our company,” “we,” “us,” and “our” in this prospectus refer to Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

Overview

We are a precision oncology company focused on developing purpose-built therapies to overcome tumor resistance and improve outcomes for patients with cancer. The widespread availability of approved targeted oncology treatments, such as kinase inhibitors, has transformed the cancer treatment landscape. Despite the therapeutic benefit that targeted oncology treatments have created for some patients, the response rate and duration of efficacy is often limited by acquired drug resistance and other shortcomings of existing therapies. We are using our proprietary SNÅP platform, which is optimized to enable rapid and precise refinement of structural design through iterative molecular SNÅPshots, in order to generate next-generation product candidates that are specifically designed to address acquired drug resistance and provide alternative treatment options. We are initially focused on developing a pipeline of selective inhibitors of the Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor, or FGFR, family, which are altered in approximately 7% of all cancers. Our lead product candidate, TYRA-300, is designed to selectively inhibit FGFR3, with an initial focus on patients with bladder cancer. We anticipate filing an Investigational New Drug application, or IND, with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or the FDA, for TYRA-300 in mid-2022. In addition, we have pipeline development programs targeting FGFR2-related cancers, FGFR3-related achondroplasia, REarranged during Transfection kinase, or RET, and FGFR4-related cancers.

Our SNÅP platform

We developed our proprietary SNÅP platform to efficiently identify and selectively target vulnerabilities in the mutant proteins where genetic alterations have eliminated or reduced the effectiveness of targeted therapies. Through the rapid generation of precise molecular SNÅPshots, we continually gain deeper insights into the structure of inhibitor binding sites and how commonly occurring genetic alterations lead to acquired drug resistance to existing therapies. Leveraging these insights, we aim to predict the genetic alterations most likely to cause resistance to specific existing therapies and develop compound candidates with innovative structures that are designed to inhibit the target while avoiding those mutations. Through this process, we identify product candidates that may have the potency and selectivity to, if approved, be used as important treatment options to address critical unmet needs.

Our SNÅP platform is driven by our ability to rapidly and concurrently generate iterative data from the following three key pillars.

 

   

Protein crystallography. We have developed proprietary protein crystallography techniques that enable us to determine the co-crystal structures of newly synthesized compounds in target proteins in as little as three days. This enables weekly generation of detailed structural insights on the precise interactions and conformational changes that occur when our potential product candidates bind to a particular target, creating opportunities to further refine the structural design.

 

   

Cell-based assays. We assess inhibitor potency directly in in vitro target-specific anti-proliferation assays, in addition to enzymatic assays, to enable us to simultaneously understand target potency


 

1


Table of Contents
 

and cell penetration as well as target-specific cell killing. Our process allows us to generate data on newly synthesized compounds in as little as two days.

 

   

In vivo models. Our direct structural insights and in vitro datasets are complemented by in vivo pharmacologic data generated through in-house animal models that provide us with bioavailability, pharmacokinetic data and anti-tumor activity in as little as five days.

Our Programs

Below is an overview of our programs.

 

LOGO

Our FGFR3 Program—TYRA-300

We are developing our lead product candidate, TYRA-300, a selective inhibitor of FGFR3, initially for the treatment of muscle invasive bladder cancer, or MIBC.

One common mechanism of acquired drug resistance in kinases such as FGFR3 is the emergence of gatekeeper mutations. For example, the V555M and V555L gatekeeper mutations have been shown to block access to a portion of the binding pocket accessed by first generation FGFR compounds, such as Balversa® (erdafitinib), the only currently FDA approved FGFR3 inhibitor for MIBC, as well as Truseltiq® (infigratinib), an FGFR inhibitor recently approved for cholangiocarcinoma. Because we believe the gatekeeper mutation represents a key limitation to efficacy and durability of the therapeutic effect of first generation FGFR compounds, we have designed TYRA-300 to avoid interactions with the gatekeeper region of the inhibitor binding site. In cell-based assays and preclinical xenograft models, we observed that TYRA-300 had similar inhibition against both the wild-type and the gatekeeper mutations.

In addition to addressing the gatekeeper resistance mutations, we have designed TYRA-300 to be more selective for FGFR3 over FGFR1 to minimize off-target side effects, providing potential clinical advantages over less selective first generation compounds. For example, inhibition of FGFR1 is associated with a well-characterized adverse event, hyperphosphatemia, an electrolyte disorder characterized by an elevated level of phosphate in the blood, which is commonly observed in patients treated with these inhibitors, limiting their dosing.

We have designed TYRA-300 to be more selective for FGFR3 over FGFR1 in order to potentially reduce the need for dose modifications or interruptions due to hyperphosphatemia, which we believe will result in


 

2


Table of Contents

increased efficacy and improved clinical outcomes for patients with MIBC. We believe TYRA-300 has the potential to address additional indications such as non-muscle invasive bladder cancer, or NMIBC, as well as other FGFR3-driven indications demonstrating resistance to existing therapies or for which such therapies result in dose-limiting adverse events, such as hyperphosphatemia.

Our FGFR2 Program

Our second program is focused on the inhibition of FGFR2, initially for the treatment of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, or ICC, a cancer of the biliary ducts. Acquired resistance mutations, such as gatekeeper and molecular brake mutations, have been observed in patients treated with Pemazyre® (pemigatinib) and Truseltiq® (infigratinib), the two FDA approved FGFR inhibitors for ICC, and in other late clinical stage inhibitors, such as futibatinib. We are developing an inhibitor with the potential to address key resistance mutations, which we believe is necessary to address the problem of polyclonal resistance. We plan to nominate a product candidate by the end of 2021.

Our Achondroplasia, RET and FGFR4 Programs

Our pipeline also includes development programs targeting FGFR3-related achondroplasia as well as RET and FGFR4-related cancers. These programs are currently in lead optimization stage. Our achondroplasia program is aimed at developing a potential treatment for pediatric patients, benefiting from our structural insights into the FGFR3 selectivity we have observed with TYRA-300. This genetic disorder is caused by a mutation in the FGFR3 gene. Our RET and FGFR4 programs are focused on overcoming acquired drug resistance mutations that are clinically observed to arise in response to marketed or clinical-stage drugs in RET- and FGFR4-related cancers.

Our Strategy

At Tyra, we do not accept that cancer patients with acquired drug resistance should be left with the devastating reality of limited or no treatment options. Our vision is to become a leading precision medicine company utilizing our unique approach to designing and developing purpose-built therapies to overcome acquired drug resistance in tumors and provide treatment options to these patients who have limited or no options. Key elements of our strategy to achieve our vision are as follows.

 

   

Advance product candidates for acquired drug resistance mutations in FGFR3 and FGFR2 through clinical development and regulatory approval.

 

   

Harness the strength of our SNÅP platform to rapidly develop additional next-generation precision therapies.

 

   

Leverage the recent advances in the precision oncology landscape to potentially expedite our product candidates’ development.

 

   

Maximize the value of our product candidates across multiple therapeutic areas through accelerated development and potential partnerships.

Our Leadership Team and Investors

We are led by a team with extensive experience in drug discovery and development with a particular focus on small molecule drug development. Todd Harris, Ph.D., our co-founder and Chief Executive Officer, previously founded and served as Chief Executive Officer of Sienna Labs. Daniel Bensen, our co-founder and Chief Operating Officer, is a structural biologist and protein chemist with over 20 years of experience most recently at Cidara Therapeutics and Trius Therapeutics. Robert Hudkins, Ph.D., our Chief Technical Officer, has over 34 years of oncology and neuroscience medicinal chemistry experience, including 26 years at Cephalon and


 

3


Table of Contents

Teva, where he was an inventor and team leader advancing new chemical entities into clinical development. Ronald Swanson, Ph.D., our Chief Scientific Officer, has over 25 years of biotechnology and pharmaceutical experience, most recently at Janssen. Hiroomi Tada, M.D., Ph.D., our Chief Medical Officer, was a clinical lead for the development of a portfolio of therapies at Incyte, GlaxoSmithKline and AstraZeneca. Our Chief Development Officer, Piyush Patel, Ph.D., with nearly three decades of experience, previously served as Chief Scientific Officer at CinRx and led drug formulation, clinical manufacturing and process development at Cephalon and Teva.

To date, we have raised $157.2 million from leading investors in the life sciences industry. Investors with 5% or greater ownership are Alta Partners, Boxer Capital of Tavistock Group, Canaan, Nextech Invest and RA Capital.

Summary of Risks Associated with Our Business

Our ability to implement our business strategy is subject to numerous risks that you should be aware of before making an investment decision. These risks are described more fully in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in this prospectus. These risks include, among others, the following.

 

   

We are very early in our development efforts, have limited operating history, have not initiated or completed any clinical trials, have no products approved for commercial sale and have not generated any revenue, which may make it difficult for investors to evaluate our current business and likelihood of success and viability.

 

   

We have incurred significant net losses in each period since our inception, and we expect to continue to incur significant net losses for the foreseeable future.

 

   

Our ability to generate revenue and achieve profitability depends significantly on our ability to achieve our objectives relating to discovery, development and commercialization of our product candidates.

 

   

Even if this offering is successful, we will require substantial additional financing to achieve our goals, and a failure to obtain this necessary capital when needed on acceptable terms, or at all, could force us to delay, limit, reduce or terminate our development programs, commercialization efforts or other operations.

 

   

We are early in our development efforts and all of our development programs are in the preclinical or discovery stage. If we are unable to successfully develop, obtain marketing approval and ultimately commercialize product candidates, or experience significant delays in doing so, our business will be materially harmed.

 

   

As an organization, we have never conducted any clinical trials or submitted an application for marketing approval, and may be unable to do so for any of our product candidates.

 

   

Preclinical and clinical development involves a lengthy and expensive process with an uncertain outcome, and the results of preclinical studies and early clinical trials are not necessarily predictive of future results. We have not tested any of our product candidates in clinical trials and our product candidates may not have favorable results in clinical trials, if any, or receive marketing approval on a timely basis, if at all.

 

   

We may find it difficult to enroll patients in our clinical trials. If we encounter difficulties enrolling patients in our clinical trials, our clinical development activities could be delayed or otherwise adversely affected.


 

4


Table of Contents
   

We intend to rely on third parties for the manufacture of our product candidates for preclinical and clinical development. This reliance on third parties increases the risk that we will not have sufficient quantities of our product candidates or products or such quantities at an acceptable cost, which could delay, prevent or impair our development or commercialization efforts.

 

   

We rely on third parties to conduct some of our preclinical studies and will rely on third parties to conduct our future clinical trials. If these third parties do not successfully carry out their contractual duties, comply with applicable regulatory requirements or meet expected deadlines, our development programs and our ability to seek or obtain marketing approval for or commercialize our product candidates may be delayed.

 

   

We face significant competition, and, if our competitors develop technologies or product candidates more rapidly than we do or their technologies are more effective, our business and our ability to develop and successfully commercialize products may be adversely affected.

 

   

If we are unable to obtain and maintain patent protection for our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we develop, or if the scope of the patent protection obtained is not sufficiently broad, our competitors could develop and commercialize products and technology similar or identical to ours, and our ability to successfully commercialize our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop may be adversely affected.

Corporate History

We were incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware on August 2, 2018 under the name “Tyra Biosciences, Inc.” Our principal corporate office is located at 2656 State Street, Carlsbad, CA 92008, and our telephone number is (619) 728-4760. Our website address is www.tyra.bio. We do not incorporate the information on or accessible through our website into this prospectus, and you should not consider any information on, or that can be accessed through, our website as part of this prospectus.

Implications of Being an Emerging Growth Company and a Smaller Reporting Company

We are an “emerging growth company” as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act, as amended, or the JOBS Act, enacted in April 2012. An “emerging growth company” may take advantage of reduced reporting requirements that are otherwise applicable to public companies. These provisions include, but are not limited to:

 

   

being permitted to present only two years of audited financial statements and only two years of related Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations in this prospectus;

 

   

not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as amended, or the Sarbanes-Oxley Act;

 

   

reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in our periodic reports, proxy statements and registration statements; and

 

   

exemptions from the requirements of holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation and any golden parachute payments not previously approved.

We may take advantage of these provisions until the last day of our fiscal year following the fifth anniversary of the date of the first sale of our common equity securities pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Securities Act, which such fifth anniversary will occur in 2026. However, if certain events occur prior to the end of such five-year period, including if we become a “large accelerated filer” as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, our annual gross revenues exceed $1.07 billion or we issue more than $1.0 billion of non-convertible debt in any three-year period, we will cease to be an emerging growth company prior to the end of such five-year period.


 

5


Table of Contents

We have elected to take advantage of certain of the reduced disclosure obligations in the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part and may elect to take advantage of other reduced reporting requirements in future filings. As a result, the information that we provide to our stockholders may be different than you might receive from other public reporting companies in which you hold equity interests.

The JOBS Act provides that an emerging growth company can take advantage of an extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards. We have elected to use the extended transition period to enable us to comply with new or revised accounting standards that have different effective dates for public and private companies until the earlier of the date on which we (i) are no longer an emerging growth company and (ii) affirmatively and irrevocably opt out of the extended transition period provided in the JOBS Act. As a result, our financial statements may not be comparable to companies that comply with new or revised accounting pronouncements as of public company effective dates.

We are also a “smaller reporting company” as defined in the Exchange Act. We may continue to be a smaller reporting company even after we are no longer an emerging growth company. We may take advantage of certain of the scaled disclosures available to smaller reporting companies and will be able to take advantage of these scaled disclosures for so long as our voting and non-voting common stock held by non-affiliates is less than $250.0 million measured on the last business day of our second fiscal quarter, or our annual revenue is less than $100.0 million during the most recently completed fiscal year and our voting and non-voting common stock held by non-affiliates is less than $700.0 million measured on the last business day of our second fiscal quarter.


 

6


Table of Contents

THE OFFERING

 

Common stock offered by us

             shares.

 

Underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares

We have granted a 30-day option to the underwriters to purchase up to an aggregate of              additional shares of common stock from us at the initial public offering price, less underwriting discounts and commissions, on the same terms as set forth in this prospectus.

 

Common stock to be outstanding
immediately after this offering

             shares (             shares if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional shares in full).

 

Use of proceeds

We estimate that our net proceeds from the sale of shares of our common stock in this offering will be approximately $             million, or $             million if the underwriters exercise in full their option to purchase additional shares, assuming an initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. We currently intend to use the net proceeds from this offering, together with our existing cash and cash equivalents, to fund the development of TYRA-300, our FGFR2 program and our FGFR3 achondroplasia program, as well as to fund the discovery and preclinical development of additional product candidates and for headcount costs, working capital and other general corporate purposes. See “Use of Proceeds” for additional information.

 

Directed share program

At our request, the underwriters have reserved up to     % of the shares of our common stock offered by this prospectus, excluding the additional shares that the underwriters have a 30-day option to purchase, for sale, at the initial public offering price, to certain of our directors and officers and certain other parties related to us. Shares purchased through the directed share program will not be subject to lockup restrictions with the underwriters, except in the case of shares purchased by any of our directors or executive officers. See “Underwriting—Reserved Shares.” The number of shares of common stock available for sale to the general public will be reduced to the extent these individuals purchase such reserved shares. Any reserved shares that are not so purchased will be offered by the underwriters to the general public on the same basis as the other shares offered by this prospectus.

 

Risk factors

You should carefully read the “Risk Factors” section of this prospectus for a discussion of factors that you should consider before deciding to invest in our common stock.

 

Proposed Nasdaq Global Market symbol

“TYRA”

 

7


Table of Contents

The number of shares of our common stock to be outstanding after this offering is based on 11,594,360 shares of our common stock outstanding as of June 30, 2021, including 582,389 shares of unvested restricted common stock, and 10,097,839 shares of our common stock issuable upon the automatic conversion of all outstanding shares of our convertible preferred stock immediately prior to the completion of this offering, and excludes:

 

   

995,940 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options outstanding as of June 30, 2021 under our 2020 Equity Incentive Plan, or the 2020 Plan, with a weighted-average exercise price of $7.47 per share;

 

   

             shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2021 Incentive Award Plan, or the 2021 Plan (including              shares of common stock reserved for future grant or issuance under our 2020 Plan as of June 30, 2021, which shares will be added to the shares reserved under the 2021 Plan upon its effectiveness), as well as any annual automatic increases in the number of shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under the 2021 Plan, which will become effective on the day prior to the public trading date of our common stock; and

 

   

             shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under our 2021 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, or the ESPP, as well as any annual automatic increases in the number of shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under the ESPP, which will become effective on the day prior to the public trading date of our common stock.

Except as otherwise indicated, all information in this prospectus assumes or gives effect to:

 

   

the automatic conversion of all outstanding shares of our convertible preferred stock into an aggregate of 10,097,839 shares of our common stock immediately prior to the completion of this offering;

 

   

no exercise of the outstanding options described above;

 

   

no exercise by the underwriters of their option to purchase additional shares of our common stock in this offering;

 

   

the filing of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and the adoption of our amended and restated bylaws, which will occur immediately prior to the completion of this offering; and

 

   

a              – for –1 stock split of our common stock to be effected prior to the effectiveness of the registration of which this prospectus forms a part.

See Note 7 to our audited and unaudited financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus for a discussion of our outstanding restricted common stock.


 

8


Table of Contents

SUMMARY FINANCIAL DATA

The following tables summarize our financial data as of, and for the periods ended on, the dates indicated. We have derived the statement of operations data for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020 from our audited financial statements appearing at the end of this prospectus. The statement of operations data for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021 and the balance sheet data as of June 30, 2021 have been derived from our unaudited financial statements appearing at the end of this prospectus and have been prepared on the same basis as the audited financial statements. In the opinion of our management, the unaudited data reflects all adjustments, consisting of normal and recurring adjustments, necessary for the fair statement of results as of and for these periods.

Our historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected in the future. The following summary financial data should be read in conjunction with the section of this prospectus titled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and our audited and unaudited financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus.

 

     Year Ended
December 31,
     Six Months
Ended June 30,
 
     2019      2020      2020      2021  
                   (unaudited)  
     (in thousands, except share and per share data)  

Statement of Operations Data:

           

Operating expenses:

           

Research and development

   $ 1,790      $ 7,203        2,413        7,902  

General and administrative

     1,332        2,094        875        1,816  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

     3,122        9,297        3,288        9,718  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Loss from operations

     (3,122      (9,297      (3,288      (9,718

Other (expense) income:

           

Interest (expense) income

     (1      (1      1        5  

Change in fair value of simple agreement for future equity

     (934      (15      (15      —    

Other expense

     (8      (23      (10      (8
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other (expense) income

     (943      (39      (24      (3
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net loss and comprehensive loss

   $ (4,065    $ (9,336    $ (3,312    $ (9,721
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net loss per share, basic and diluted(1)

   $ (3.98    $ (15.72    $ (6.08    $ (11.80
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Weighted average shares used to compute net loss per share, basic and diluted(1)

     1,020,394        593,744        544,702        823,864  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Pro forma net loss per share, basic and diluted (unaudited)(2)

   $        $        $        $    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Pro forma weighted average shares of common stock, basic and diluted (unaudited)(2)

           
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1)

See Note 2 to our audited financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus for an explanation of the method used to calculate the historical net loss per share, basic and diluted, and the number of shares used in the computation of the per share amounts.

(2)

Unaudited pro forma net loss per share, basic and diluted, attributable to common stockholders, is calculated giving effect to the conversion of the convertible preferred stock into shares of common stock. Unaudited pro forma net loss per share attributable to common stockholders does not include the shares expected to be


 

9


Table of Contents
  sold and related proceeds to be received in this offering. Unaudited pro forma net loss per share attributable to common stockholders for the year ended December 31, 2020 and the period ended June 30, 2021 was calculated using the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding, including the pro forma effect of the conversion of all outstanding shares of our convertible preferred stock into shares of our common stock, as if such conversion had occurred at the beginning of the period.

 

     As of June 30, 2021  
     Actual      Pro
Forma(1)
     Pro Forma
As
Adjusted(2)(3)
 
     (unaudited, in thousands)  

Balance Sheet Data:

        

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 135,204        

Working capital(4)

     131,672        

Total assets

     139,918        

Convertible preferred stock

     157,274        

Total stockholders’ (deficit) equity

   $ (22,667                                            

 

(1)

Gives effect to (i) the automatic conversion of all outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock into an aggregate of 10,097,839 shares of our common stock immediately prior to the completion of this offering and the related reclassification of the carrying value of the convertible preferred stock to permanent equity immediately prior to the completion of this offering and (ii) the filing and effectiveness of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, which will occur upon the completion of this offering.

(2)

Gives effect to (i) the pro forma adjustments set forth above and (ii) the issuance and sale of              shares of common stock in this offering at an assumed initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

(3)

Pro forma as adjusted balance sheet data is illustrative only and will change based on the actual initial public offering price and other terms of this offering determined at pricing. Each $1.00 increase (decrease) in the assumed initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase (decrease) pro forma as adjusted cash and cash equivalents, working capital, total assets and total stockholders’ (deficit) equity by approximately $             million, assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same, and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions. We may also increase or decrease the number of shares we are offering. A 1,000,000 share increase (decrease) in the number of shares offered by us would increase or decrease pro forma as adjusted cash and cash equivalents, working capital, total assets and total stockholders’ deficit by approximately $             million, assuming that the assumed initial offering price to the public remains the same, and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions.

(4)

We define working capital as current assets less current liabilities. See our financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus for further details regarding our current assets and current liabilities.


 

10


Table of Contents

RISK FACTORS

Investing in our common stock involves a high degree of risk. You should consider carefully the risks and uncertainties described below, together with all of the other information in this prospectus, including our financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus and in the section titled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” before making an investment decision. If any of the following risks are realized, our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects could be materially and adversely affected. In that event, the market price of our common stock could decline and you could lose part or all of your investment. Additional risk and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial also may impair our business and operations and the market price of our common stock.

Risks Related to Our Limited Operating History, Financial Position and Capital Requirements

We are very early in our development efforts, have limited operating history, have not initiated or completed any clinical trials, and have no products approved for commercial sale, which may make it difficult for investors to evaluate our current business and likelihood of success and viability.

Investment in drug development is a highly speculative undertaking and involves a substantial degree of risk. We are a preclinical-stage biopharmaceutical company formed in 2018 with a limited operating history upon which you can evaluate our business and prospects. Our development programs, including our lead product candidate, TYRA-300, are either in preclinical development or in the drug discovery stage. To date, we have focused primarily on organizing and staffing our company, business planning, raising capital, research and development activities including development of our proprietary SNÅP platform and identifying potential product candidates, establishing our intellectual property portfolio, conducting research and preclinical studies, and providing general and administrative support to these operations. Our approach to the discovery and development of product candidates based on our proprietary SNÅP platform is unproven, and we do not know whether we will be able to develop any product candidates that are successful in clinical development or products of commercial value.

As an organization, we have not yet initiated or completed any clinical trials, obtained regulatory approvals, manufactured a commercial-scale product, or arranged for a third party to do so on our behalf, or conducted sales and marketing activities necessary for successful product commercialization. Consequently, any predictions made about our future success or viability may not be as accurate as they could be if we had a history of successfully developing and commercializing biopharmaceutical products.

We have incurred significant net losses in each period since our inception, and we expect to continue to incur significant net losses for the foreseeable future.

We have incurred significant operating losses since our inception. Our net losses were $4.1 million and $9.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2020, respectively, and $9.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021. As of June 30, 2021, we had an accumulated deficit of $23.8 million. Substantially all of our losses have resulted from expenses incurred in connection with our research and development programs and from general and administrative costs associated with our operations. TYRA-300 and any of our other product candidates will require substantial additional development time and resources before we are able to apply for, or receive, marketing approval and begin generating revenue from product sales. We expect to continue to incur losses for the foreseeable future, and we anticipate these losses will increase substantially as we continue our development of, and seek marketing approval for, and potentially commercialize any of our product candidates and as we seek to discover, develop and market additional potential product candidates.

 

11


Table of Contents

Our ability to generate revenue and achieve profitability depends significantly on our ability to achieve our objectives relating to discovery, development and commercialization of our product candidates.

To generate revenue and achieve profitability, we must succeed in developing and eventually commercializing product candidates that generate significant revenue. This will require us to be successful in a range of challenging activities, including identifying lead product candidates, completing preclinical studies and clinical trials of our product candidates, discovering additional product candidates, obtaining marketing approval for these product candidates and manufacturing, marketing and selling any products for which we may obtain marketing approval. We are only in the preliminary stages of many of these activities. We may never succeed in these activities and, even if we succeed in commercializing one or more of our product candidates do, we may never generate revenues that are significant or large enough to achieve profitability. In addition, we have not yet demonstrated an ability to successfully overcome many of the risks and uncertainties frequently encountered by companies in new and rapidly evolving fields, particularly in the biopharmaceutical industry.

Because of the numerous risks and uncertainties associated with biopharmaceutical product development, we are unable to accurately predict the timing or amount of increased expenses or when, or if, we will be able to achieve profitability. Even if we obtain marketing approval for one or more of our product candidates and achieve profitability, we may not be able to sustain or increase profitability on a quarterly or annual basis. Our failure to become and remain profitable may have an adverse effect on the value of our company and could impair our ability to raise capital, expand our business, maintain our research and development efforts, diversify our product candidates or even continue our operations. A decline in the value of our company could also cause you to lose all or part of your investment.

Even if this offering is successful, we will require substantial additional capital to achieve our goals, and a failure to obtain this necessary capital when needed on acceptable terms, or at all, could force us to delay, limit, reduce or terminate our development programs, commercialization efforts or other operations.

The development of biopharmaceutical product candidates is capital-intensive. We expect our expenses to increase in connection with our ongoing activities, particularly as we conduct our ongoing and planned preclinical studies for our development programs, initiate clinical trials for our product candidates and seek marketing approval for our current product candidates and any future product candidates we may develop. If we obtain marketing approval for any of our product candidates, we also expect to incur significant commercialization expenses related to product manufacturing, marketing, sales and distribution. Because the outcome of any preclinical study or clinical trial is highly uncertain, we cannot reasonably estimate the actual amounts necessary to successfully complete the development and commercialization of our product candidates. Furthermore, following the completion of this offering, we expect to incur additional costs associated with operating as a public company. Accordingly, we will need to obtain substantial additional funding in connection with our continuing operations. If we are unable to raise capital when needed or on attractive terms, we could be forced to delay, reduce or eliminate our research and development programs or any future commercialization efforts.

Based upon our current operating plan, we believe that the net proceeds from this offering, together with our existing cash and cash equivalents, will enable us to fund our operations for at least the next              months from the date of this prospectus. In particular, we expect that the net proceeds from this offering and our existing cash and cash equivalents will allow us to complete the Phase 1 portion of our planned Phase 1/2 clinical trial for TYRA-300 and Phase 1 clinical development for our FGRF2 program, and advance our FGFR3 program into the clinic. We have based these estimates on assumptions that may prove to be wrong, and we could use our capital resources sooner than we currently expect. Our operating plans and other demands on our cash resources may change as a result of many factors currently unknown to us, and we may need to seek additional funds sooner than planned, through public or private equity or debt financings or other capital sources, including potentially additional collaborations, licenses and other similar arrangements. In addition, we may seek additional capital due to favorable market conditions or strategic considerations even if we believe we have sufficient funds for our current or future operating plans. Attempting to secure additional financing may divert our management from our day-to-day activities, which may adversely affect our ability to develop our product candidates.

 

12


Table of Contents

Our future capital requirements will depend on many factors, including, but not limited to:

 

   

the type, number, scope, progress, expansions, results, costs and timing of, discovery, preclinical studies and clinical trials of our product candidates which we are pursuing or may choose to pursue in the future;

 

   

the costs and timing of manufacturing for our product candidates and commercial manufacturing if any product candidate is approved;

 

   

the costs, timing and outcome of regulatory review of our product candidates;

 

   

the costs of obtaining, maintaining and enforcing our patents and other intellectual property rights;

 

   

our efforts to enhance operational, compliance, and quality systems and hire additional personnel to satisfy our obligations as a public company, including enhanced internal controls over financial reporting;

 

   

the costs associated with hiring additional personnel and consultants as our preclinical and clinical activities increase;

 

   

the costs and timing of establishing or securing sales and marketing capabilities if any product candidate is approved for commercial sale;

 

   

our ability to achieve sufficient market acceptance, coverage and adequate reimbursement from third-party payors and adequate market share and revenue for any approved products;

 

   

changes in laws or regulations applicable to our product candidates, including but not limited to clinical trial requirements for approval;

 

   

the terms and timing of establishing and maintaining collaborations, licenses and other similar arrangements; and

 

   

costs associated with any products or technologies that we may in-license or acquire.

Because we do not expect to generate commercial revenues, if any, from sales of products that we do not expect to be commercially available for many years, if at all, we will need to continue to rely on additional financing to achieve our business objectives. Adequate additional financing may not be available to us on acceptable terms, or at all.

Raising additional capital may cause dilution to our stockholders, including purchasers of common stock in this offering, restrict our operations or require us to relinquish rights to our technologies or product candidates.

Until such time, if ever, as we can generate substantial product revenues, we expect to finance our cash needs through equity offerings, debt financings, or other capital sources, including potential collaborations, licenses and other similar arrangements. We do not have any committed external source of funds. To the extent that we raise additional capital through the sale of equity or convertible debt securities, your ownership interest will be diluted, and the terms of these securities may include liquidation or other preferences that adversely affect your rights as a common stockholder. Any future debt financing and preferred equity financing, if available, may involve, agreements that include covenants limiting or restricting our ability to take specific actions, such as incurring additional debt, selling or licensing our assets, making capital expenditures, declaring dividends or

 

13


Table of Contents

encumbering our assets to secure future indebtedness. Such restrictions could adversely impact our ability to conduct our operations and execute our business plan.

If we raise additional funds through future collaborations, licenses and other similar arrangements, we may have to relinquish valuable rights to our future revenue streams, research programs or product candidates, or grant licenses on terms that may not be favorable to us and/or that may reduce the value of our common stock. If we are unable to raise additional funds through equity or debt financings or other arrangements when needed or on terms acceptable to us, we would be required to delay, limit, reduce, or terminate our product development or future commercialization efforts or grant rights to develop and market product candidates that we would otherwise prefer to develop and market ourselves.

Risks Related to the Discovery, Development and Marketing Approval of Our Product Candidates

We are early in our development efforts and all of our development programs are in the preclinical or discovery stage. If we are unable to successfully develop, obtain marketing approval and ultimately commercialize product candidates, or experience significant delays in doing so, our business will be materially harmed.

We are in the early stages of our research and development efforts and all of our development programs, including TYRA-300, are either in the preclinical or drug discovery stage. We have invested substantially all of our efforts to date in developing our proprietary SNÅP platform, developing TYRA-300, identifying potential product candidates and conducting preclinical studies. We will need to progress TYRA-300 and our other product candidates through additional preclinical studies to enable us to submit INDs with the FDA and receive clearance from the FDA to proceed with initiating their clinical development. Our ability to generate product revenues, which we do not expect will occur for many years, if ever, will depend on the successful development and eventual commercialization of our product candidates. The success of our product candidates will depend on several factors, including the following:

 

   

successful completion of preclinical studies with favorable results, including those compliant with Good Laboratory Practice, or GLP, such as toxicology studies, biodistribution studies and minimum effective dose studies in animals;

 

   

acceptance by the FDA of INDs or of similar regulatory submissions by comparable foreign regulatory authorities for the conduct of clinical trials of TYRA-300 and our other product candidates and our proposed design of future clinical trials;

 

   

successful enrollment in clinical trials and completion of clinical trials with favorable results;

 

   

successful identification of new product candidates utilizing our SNÅP platform;

 

   

demonstrating safety and efficacy to the satisfaction of applicable regulatory authorities;

 

   

making arrangements with our third-party manufacturers for, or establishing, commercial manufacturing capabilities;

 

   

receipt of marketing approvals from applicable regulatory authorities, including new drug applications, or NDAs, from the FDA and maintaining such approvals;

 

   

establishing sales, marketing and distribution capabilities and launching commercial sales of our products, if and when approved, whether alone or in collaboration with others;

 

   

establishing and maintaining patent and trade secret protection or regulatory exclusivity for our product candidates;

 

14


Table of Contents
   

maintaining an acceptable safety profile of our products following marketing approval, including acceptable results from any post-approval studies or clinical trials agreed to by us or required by the FDA; and

 

   

maintaining and growing an organization of people who can develop and commercialize our product candidates.

The FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities can refuse to accept INDs or similar regulatory submissions for many reasons, including negative or ambiguous results from our preclinical studies or disagreement with our interpretation of data from preclinical studies. If we are unable to develop, obtain marketing approval for, or, if approved, successfully commercialize our product candidates, we may not be able to generate sufficient revenue to continue our business.

As an organization, we have never conducted any clinical trials or submitted an application for marketing approval, and may be unable to do so for any of our product candidates.

We are early in our development efforts for our product candidates and we will need to successfully complete IND-enabling studies, Phase 1 clinical trials and later-stage and pivotal clinical trials, in order to obtain marketing authorization from the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities to market TYRA-300 or any other product candidates. Carrying out clinical trials and the submission of a successful NDA is a complicated process. As an organization, we plan to commence our first Phase 1/2 clinical trial in the second half of 2022, subject to receiving clearance to proceed under an IND. We have not previously conducted any clinical trials, have limited experience as a company in preparing, submitting and prosecuting regulatory filings and have not previously submitted an IND or an NDA or other comparable foreign regulatory submission for any product candidate. If we decide to develop TYRA-300 for multiple indications, we may be required to submit multiple INDs to the FDA for these indications and may not conduct a clinical trial in the United States for that indication until we do so. In addition, we have had limited interactions with the FDA and cannot be certain how many clinical trials of TYRA-300 or any other product candidates will be required or how such trials should be designed. Consequently, we may be unable to successfully and efficiently execute and complete necessary clinical trials in a way that leads to regulatory submission and approval of any of our product candidates. We may require more time and incur greater costs than our competitors and may not succeed in obtaining marketing approvals of product candidates that we develop. Failure to commence or complete, or delays in, our planned clinical trials, could prevent us from, or delay us in submitting NDAs for, and commercializing our product candidates.

Preclinical and clinical development involves a lengthy and expensive process with an uncertain outcome, and the results of preclinical studies and early clinical trials are not necessarily predictive of future results. We have not tested any of our product candidates in clinical trials and our product candidates may not have favorable results in clinical trials, if any, or receive marketing approval on a timely basis, if at all.

Preclinical and clinical development is expensive and can take many years to complete, and its outcome is inherently uncertain. We cannot guarantee that any preclinical studies or clinical trials will be conducted as planned or completed on schedule, if at all, and delay or failure can occur at any time during the preclinical study or clinical trial process. Despite promising preclinical or clinical results, any biopharmaceutical company’s product candidate can unexpectedly fail at any stage of preclinical or clinical development, and regulators, such as the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities, may not accept the results as demonstrating the product candidate’s safety and efficacy. The historical failure rate for product candidates in our industry is high.

The results from preclinical studies or clinical trials of a product candidate may not predict the results of later clinical trials of the product candidate, and interim, topline, or preliminary results of a clinical trial are not necessarily indicative of final results. Product candidates in later stages of clinical trials may fail to show the desired safety and efficacy characteristics despite having progressed through preclinical studies and initial

 

15


Table of Contents

clinical trials. In particular, while we have conducted certain preclinical studies of TYRA-300 and other potential product candidates targeting acquired resistance mutations in FGFR3, FGFR2, RET, and FGFR4, we do not know whether TYRA-300 or the other potential product candidates will perform in future clinical trials as they have performed in these prior studies. The positive results we have observed for our product candidates in preclinical animal models may not be predictive of our future clinical trials in humans. It is not uncommon to observe results in clinical trials that are unexpected based on preclinical studies and early clinical trials, and many product candidates fail in clinical trials despite very promising early results. We are currently conducting IND-enabling preclinical studies for TYRA-300. If unexpected observations or toxicities are observed in these studies, or in IND-enabling studies for any of our other product candidates, this will delay and possibly prevent or limit clinical trials for TYRA-300 or our other product candidates. Moreover, preclinical and clinical data may be susceptible to varying interpretations and analyses. A number of companies in the biopharmaceutical and biotechnology industries have suffered significant setbacks in clinical development even after achieving promising results in earlier studies.

For the foregoing reasons, we cannot be certain that our ongoing and planned preclinical studies and planned clinical trials will be successful. Any safety concerns observed in any one of our clinical trials in our targeted indications could impair the prospects for marketing approval of our product candidates in those and other indications, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Our discovery and preclinical development activities are focused on the development of targeted therapeutics for patients with genomically defined cancers, which is a rapidly evolving area of science, and the approach we are taking to discover and develop drugs based on our SNÅP platform is novel and unproven and may never lead to approved products of commercial value.

The discovery and development of targeted therapeutics for patients with genomically defined cancers is an emerging field, and the scientific discoveries that form the basis for our efforts to discover and develop product candidates are relatively new. Although we believe, based on our preclinical work, that the genomic alterations targeted by our programs are oncogenic drivers, clinical results may not confirm this hypothesis or may only confirm it for certain alterations or certain tumor types. In addition, even if our approach is successful in showing clinical benefit for acquired resistance mutation-driven cancers for our TYRA-300 inhibitor program, we may never successfully identify additional oncogenic alterations for other receptor tyrosine kinases using our SNÅP platform, or succeed in identifying additional product candidates to address such alterations. Any product candidates we do discover and advance based on scientific approach may be later shown to have harmful side effects or may have other characteristics that may necessitate additional clinical testing, or make the product candidates unmarketable or unlikely to receive marketing approval. Therefore, we do not know if our approach of discovering and developing product candidates to treat patients with genomically defined cancers will be successful, and if our approach is unsuccessful, we may be forced to abandon our development efforts for a program or programs, which would have a material adverse effect on our business and could potentially cause us to cease operation.

Any difficulties or delays in the commencement or completion, or termination or suspension, of our planned clinical trials could result in increased costs to us, delay or limit our ability to generate revenue and adversely affect our commercial prospects.

Before we can initiate clinical trials for our product candidates, we must submit the results of preclinical studies to the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities along with other information, including information about product candidate chemistry, manufacturing and controls and our proposed clinical trial protocol, as part of an IND application or similar regulatory filing required for regulatory acceptance before proceeding with clinical development. We are currently conducting IND-enabling studies for TYRA-300, and expect to submit an IND for TYRA-300 in mid-2022, followed by initiation of a Phase 1/2 clinical trial. We will also need to complete IND-enabling studies and submit INDs for our other development programs prior to

 

16


Table of Contents

initiating clinical development. The FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities may require us to conduct additional preclinical studies for any product candidate before it allows us to initiate clinical trials under any IND or similar regulatory filing, which may lead to delays and increase the costs of our preclinical development programs. Moreover, even if these trials begin, issues may arise that could cause regulatory authorities to suspend or terminate such clinical trials. Any such delays in the commencement or completion of our planned clinical trials for TYRA-300, or any other product candidate, could significantly affect our product development timelines and development costs.

We do not know whether our planned trials will begin on time or be completed on schedule, if at all. The commencement and completion of clinical trials can be delayed for a number of reasons, including delays related to:

 

   

inability to generate sufficient preclinical, toxicology, or other in vivo or in vitro data to support the initiation or continuation of clinical trials;

 

   

obtaining regulatory clearance to commence a trial or reaching a consensus with regulatory authorities on trial design;

 

   

the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities disagreeing as to the design or implementation of our clinical trials;

 

   

any failure or delay in reaching an agreement with contract research organizations, or CROs, and clinical trial sites, the terms of which can be subject to extensive negotiation and may vary significantly among different CROs and trial sites;

 

   

failure to reach an agreement with diagnostic companies for the use of liquid biopsy companion diagnostic tests in our clinical trials;

 

   

obtaining approval from one or more institutional review boards, or IRBs;

 

   

IRBs refusing to approve, suspending or terminating the trial at an investigational site, precluding enrollment of additional patients, or withdrawing their approval of the trial;

 

   

changes to clinical trial protocol;

 

   

identifying sufficient appropriately qualified investigators and other professionals to conduct the clinical trials;

 

   

clinical sites deviating from trial protocol or dropping out of a trial;

 

   

manufacturing sufficient quantities of product candidate for use in clinical trials;

 

   

patients failing to enroll or remain in our trials at the rate we expect, or failing to return for post-treatment follow-up, including patients failing to remain in our trials due to movement restrictions, health reasons or otherwise resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic;

 

   

patients choosing an alternative treatment for the indication for which we are developing our product candidates, or participating in competing clinical trials;

 

   

lack of adequate funding to continue the clinical trials;

 

   

patients experiencing severe or unexpected drug-related adverse effects;

 

   

occurrence of serious adverse events in clinical trials of the same class of agents conducted by other companies;

 

17


Table of Contents
   

selection of clinical endpoints that require prolonged periods of clinical observation or analysis of the resulting data;

 

   

a facility manufacturing our product candidates or any of their components suspending or limiting manufacturing due to violations of current good manufacturing practice, or cGMP, or other applicable requirements, including infections or cross-contaminations of product candidates in the manufacturing process, or the facility being subject to other enforcement by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities that result in temporary or permanent manufacturing shut downs or product supply limitations;

 

   

any changes to our manufacturing process that may be necessary or desired;

 

   

third-party clinical investigators losing the licenses or permits necessary to perform our clinical trials or being suspended or disqualified by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities, not performing our clinical trials on our anticipated schedule or consistent with the clinical trial protocol, good clinical practices, or GCP, or other regulatory requirements;

 

   

third-party contractors not performing data collection or analysis in a timely or accurate manner; or

 

   

third-party contractors becoming debarred or suspended or otherwise penalized by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities for violations of regulatory requirements, in which case we may need to find a substitute contractor, and we may not be able to use some or all of the data produced by such contractors in support of our marketing applications.

In addition, disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic may increase the likelihood that we encounter such difficulties or delays in initiating, enrolling, conducting or completing our planned and ongoing clinical trials. We could also encounter delays if a clinical trial is suspended or terminated by us, by the IRBs of the institutions in which our trials are being conducted, by a Data Safety Monitoring Board for our trial or by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities. These authorities may impose such a suspension or termination due to a number of factors, including failure to conduct the clinical trial in accordance with regulatory requirements or our clinical protocols and to make the appropriate required records, inspection of the clinical trial operations or trial site by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities resulting in the imposition of a clinical hold, unforeseen safety issues or adverse side effects, failure to demonstrate a benefit from using a clinical trial drug, changes in governmental regulations or administrative actions or lack of adequate funding to continue the clinical trial. In addition, changes in regulatory requirements and policies may occur, and we may need to amend clinical trial protocols to comply with these changes. Amendments may require us to resubmit our clinical trial protocols to IRBs for reexamination, which may impact the costs, timing or successful completion of a clinical trial.

Further, conducting clinical trials in foreign countries, as we may do for our product candidates, presents additional risks that may delay completion of our clinical trials. These risks include the failure of investigators or enrolled patients in foreign countries to adhere to clinical protocol as a result of differences in healthcare services or cultural customs, managing additional administrative burdens associated with foreign regulatory schemes, as well as political and economic risks relevant to such foreign countries.

Moreover, principal investigators for our clinical trials may serve as scientific advisors or consultants to us from time to time and receive compensation in connection with such services. Under certain circumstances, we may be required to report some of these relationships to the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities. These authorities may conclude that a financial relationship between us and a principal investigator has created a conflict of interest or otherwise affected interpretation of the trial. The FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities may therefore question the integrity of the data generated at the applicable clinical trial site and the utility of the clinical trial itself may be jeopardized. This could result in a delay in approval, or rejection, of a marketing application by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities and may ultimately lead to the denial of marketing approval of one or more of our product candidates.

 

18


Table of Contents

If we experience delays in the completion of, or termination of, any clinical trial of our product candidates, the commercial prospects of our product candidates will be harmed, and our ability to generate product revenues from any of these product candidates will be delayed. Moreover, any delays in completing our clinical trials will increase our costs, slow down our product candidate development and approval process and jeopardize our ability to commence product sales and generate revenues.

Our proprietary SNÅP platform is innovative and unproven, and we do not know whether we will be able to develop any product candidates that are successful in clinical development or products of commercial value.

The success of our business depends primarily upon our ability to identify, develop and commercialize products based on our proprietary SNÅP platform, which is designed to efficiently identify and selectively target vulnerabilities in the mutant proteins that commonly eliminate or reduce the effectiveness of standard-of-care therapies. Notwithstanding our preclinical study results for TYRA-300, we have not yet succeeded and may not succeed in demonstrating efficacy and safety for any product candidates in clinical trials or in obtaining marketing approval thereafter. TYRA-300 is in late preclinical development and we have not yet completed any clinical trials for any product candidate. Our SNÅP platform utilizes the rapid generation of precise molecular SNÅPshots to continually gain deeper insights into the structure of inhibitor binding sites and how commonly occurring resistance mutations lead to acquired drug resistance to existing therapies, which we believe aids in the prediction of amino acid residues most likely to cause resistance to specific existing therapies. This innovative process may never be successful in identifying additional product candidates with innovative structures that are able to inhibit the target while avoiding those specific residues. Further, because all of our product candidates and discovery programs are based on our SNÅP platform, adverse developments with respect to one of our programs may have a significant adverse impact on the actual or perceived likelihood of success and value of our other development programs.

In addition, the biotechnology and biopharmaceutical industries are characterized by rapidly advancing technologies. Our future success will depend in part on our ability to maintain a competitive position with our innovative approach to compound identification. If we fail to stay at the forefront of technological innovation in utilizing our SNÅP platform, we may be unable to compete effectively.

We may find it difficult to enroll patients in our clinical trials. If we encounter difficulties enrolling patients in our clinical trials, our clinical development activities could be delayed or otherwise adversely affected.

We may not be able to complete clinical trials for our product candidates if we are unable to identify and enroll a sufficient number of eligible patients to participate in these trials as required by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities. Patient enrollment for our clinical trials may be affected by many factors, including:

 

   

the size and nature of the patient population;

 

   

the proximity of patients to clinical sites;

 

   

the eligibility and exclusion criteria for the trial;

 

   

the design of the clinical trial;

 

   

the risk that enrolled patients will not complete a clinical trial;

 

   

our ability to recruit clinical trial investigators with the appropriate competencies and experience; and

 

   

competing clinical trials and clinicians’ and patients’ perceptions as to the potential advantages and risks of the product candidate being studied in relation to other available therapies, including any

 

19


Table of Contents
 

new products that may be approved for the indications we are investigating as well as any product candidates under development.

We will be required to identify and enroll a sufficient number of patients for each of our clinical trials. The patient populations for our product candidates are limited to those with specific target alterations and may not be completely defined but are substantially smaller than the general treated cancer population, and we will need to screen and identify these patients with targeted alterations. Successful identification of patients is dependent on several factors, including achieving certainty as to how specific alterations respond to our product candidates and the ability to identify such alterations. Furthermore, even if we are successful in identifying patients, we cannot be certain that the resulting patient populations for each mutation will be large enough to allow us to successfully obtain approval for each mutation type and commercialize our product candidates and achieve profitability. We may not be able to initiate or continue clinical trials if we are unable to locate a sufficient number of eligible patients to participate in the clinical trials required by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities. In addition, the process of finding and diagnosing patients may prove costly.

The timing of our clinical trials depends, in part, on the speed at which we can recruit patients to participate in our trials, as well as completion of required follow-up periods. The eligibility criteria of our clinical trials, once established, will further limit the pool of available trial participants. If patients are unwilling to participate in our trials for any reason, including the existence of concurrent clinical trials for similar patient populations or the availability of other therapies, or we otherwise have difficulty enrolling a sufficient number of patients, the timeline for recruiting patients, conducting clinical trials and obtaining marketing approval of our product candidates may be delayed. Additionally, because our initial planned clinical trials will be in patients with relapsed/refractory cancer, these patients are typically in the late stages of their disease and may experience disease progression independent from our product candidates, making them unevaluable for purposes of the clinical trial and requiring additional patient enrollment. Our inability to enroll a sufficient number of patients for any of our clinical trials would result in significant delays or may require us to abandon one or more clinical trials altogether. In addition, we expect to rely on CROs and clinical trial sites to ensure proper and timely conduct of our clinical trials and, while we intend to enter into agreements governing their services, we will have limited influence over their actual performance.

We cannot assure you that our assumptions used in determining expected clinical trial timelines are correct or that we will not experience delays in enrollment, which would result in the delay of completion of such trials beyond our expected timelines.

Use of our product candidates could be associated with side effects, adverse events or other properties or safety risks, which could delay or preclude approval, cause us to suspend or discontinue clinical trials, abandon a product candidate, limit the commercial profile of an approved label or result in other significant negative consequences that could severely harm our business, prospects, operating results and financial condition.

We have not evaluated any of our product candidates in human clinical trials. It is impossible to predict when or if any product candidates we may develop will prove safe in humans. As is the case with biopharmaceuticals generally, and treatments for cancer and rare diseases in particular, it is likely that there may be side effects and adverse events associated with the use of our product candidates. Results of our clinical trials could reveal a high and unacceptable severity and prevalence of side effects or unexpected characteristics. Undesirable side effects caused by our product candidates could cause us or regulatory authorities to interrupt, delay or halt clinical trials and could result in a more restrictive label or the delay or denial of marketing approval by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities. If adverse events or other side effects are observed in any of our future clinical trials, we may have difficulty recruiting patients to our clinical trials, patients may drop out of our trials, or we may be required to abandon the trials or our development efforts of one or more product candidates altogether. Any of these occurrences may harm our business, financial condition and prospects significantly.

 

20


Table of Contents

Moreover, if our product candidates are associated with undesirable side effects in clinical trials or have characteristics that are unexpected, we may elect to abandon their development or limit their development to more narrow uses or subpopulations in which the undesirable side effects or other characteristics are less prevalent, less severe or more acceptable from a risk-benefit perspective, which may limit the commercial expectations for the product candidate if approved. We, the FDA or other applicable regulatory authorities, or an IRB, may suspend or terminate future clinical trials of a product candidate at any time for various reasons, including a belief that subjects in such trials are being exposed to unacceptable health risks or adverse side effects. Many compounds that initially showed promise in early-stage testing have later been found to cause side effects that prevented further development of the compound. In addition, regulatory authorities may draw different conclusions or require additional testing to confirm these determinations.

It is possible that as we test our product candidates in larger, longer and more extensive clinical trials, including with different dosing regimens, or as the use of these product candidates becomes more widespread if they receive marketing approval, illnesses, injuries, discomforts and other adverse events that were observed in earlier trials, as well as conditions that did not occur or went undetected in previous trials, may be reported by patients. If such side effects become known later in development or upon approval, if any, such findings may harm our business, financial condition and prospects significantly.

Patients treated with our products, if approved, may experience previously unreported adverse reactions, and it is possible that the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities may ask for additional safety data as a condition of, or in connection with, our efforts to obtain approval of our product candidates. Even if the side effects do not preclude the product candidate from obtaining or maintaining marketing approval, undesirable side effects may inhibit market acceptance of the approved product due to its tolerability versus other therapies. If safety problems occur or are identified after our products, if any, are available for commercial sale and use, we may make the decision, or be required by regulatory authorities, to amend the labeling of our product candidates, recall our product candidates or even withdraw approval for an approved product.

In addition, if one or more of our product candidates receives marketing approval, and we or others later identify undesirable side effects caused by such product, a number of potentially significant negative consequences could result, including:

 

   

regulatory authorities may withdraw, suspend or limit approvals of such product, or seek an injunction against its manufacture or distribution;

 

   

we may be required to recall a product or change the way such product is administered to patients;

 

   

regulatory authorities may require additional warnings on the label, such as a “black box” warning or a contraindication;

 

   

we may be required to implement a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy, or REMS, or create a medication guide outlining the risks of such side effects for distribution to patients;

 

   

we may be required to change the way a product is distributed, conduct additional clinical trials or change the labeling of a product or be required to conduct additional post-marketing studies or surveillance;

 

   

we could be sued and held liable for harm caused to patients; or

 

   

sales of the product may decrease significantly or the product could become less competitive and our reputation may suffer.

Any of these events could prevent us from achieving or maintaining market acceptance of the particular product candidate, if approved, and could significantly harm our business, results of operations and prospects.

 

21


Table of Contents

We may not be able to submit INDs to commence clinical trials on the timelines we expect, and even if we are able to, the FDA may not permit us to proceed.

We may not be able to submit INDs for our existing and future product candidates on the timelines we expect. For example, we may experience manufacturing delays or other delays with IND-enabling studies. Moreover, we cannot be sure that submission of an IND will result in the FDA allowing clinical trials to begin, or that, once begun, issues will not arise that suspend or terminate clinical trials. Additionally, even if the FDA agrees with the design and implementation of the clinical trials set forth in an IND, we cannot guarantee that it will not change its requirements in the future. These considerations also apply to new clinical trials we may submit as amendments to existing INDs or to a new IND. Any failure to file INDs on the timelines we expect or to obtain regulatory approvals for our planned clinical trials may prevent us from initiating or completing our clinical trials or commercializing our product candidates on a timely basis, if at all.

Our product candidates are subject to extensive regulation and compliance, which is costly and time consuming, and such regulation may cause unanticipated delays or prevent the receipt of the required approvals to commercialize our product candidates.

The clinical development, manufacturing, labeling, packaging, storage, record-keeping, advertising, promotion, import, export, marketing, distribution and adverse event reporting, including the submission of safety and other information, of our product candidates are subject to extensive regulation by the FDA in the United States and by comparable foreign regulatory authorities in foreign markets. In the United States, we are not permitted to market our product candidates until we receive marketing approval from the FDA. The process of obtaining marketing approval is expensive, often takes many years following the commencement of clinical trials and can vary substantially based upon the type, complexity and novelty of the product candidates involved, as well as the target indications and patient population. Approval policies or regulations may change, and the FDA has substantial discretion in the drug approval process, including the ability to delay, limit or deny approval of a product candidate for many reasons. Despite the time and expense invested in clinical development of product candidates, marketing approval is never guaranteed. Neither we, nor any future collaborator, is permitted to market any of our product candidates in the United States until we receive marketing approval from the FDA.

Prior to obtaining approval to commercialize a product candidate in the United States or abroad, we or our collaborators must demonstrate with substantial evidence from adequate and well-controlled clinical trials, and to the satisfaction of the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities, that such product candidates are safe and effective for their intended uses. Results from preclinical studies and clinical trials can be interpreted in different ways. Even if we believe the preclinical or clinical data for our product candidates are promising, such data may not be sufficient to support approval by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities. The FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities, as the case may be, may also require us to conduct additional preclinical studies or clinical trials for our product candidates either prior to or post-approval, or may object to elements of our clinical development program.

The FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities can delay, limit or deny approval of a product candidate for many reasons, including:

 

   

such authorities may disagree with the design or implementation of our, or our any of our potential future collaborators’ clinical trials;

 

   

negative or ambiguous results from our clinical trials or results may not meet the level of statistical significance required by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities for marketing approval;

 

   

serious and unexpected drug-related side effects may be experienced by participants in our clinical trials or by individuals using drugs similar to our product candidates;

 

22


Table of Contents
   

such authorities may not accept clinical data from trials which are conducted at clinical facilities or in countries where the standard of care is potentially different from that of the United States;

 

   

we, or any of our potential future collaborators may be unable to demonstrate that a product candidate is safe and effective, and that product candidate’s clinical and other benefits outweigh its safety risks;

 

   

such authorities may disagree with our interpretation of data from preclinical studies or clinical trials;

 

   

such authorities may not agree that the data collected from clinical trials of our product candidates are acceptable or sufficient to support the submission of an NDA or other submission or to obtain marketing approval in the United States or elsewhere, and such authorities may impose requirements for additional preclinical studies or clinical trials;

 

   

such authorities may disagree regarding the formulation, labeling and/or the specifications of our product candidates;

 

   

such authorities may require additional information, data, qualification, or validation of our manufacturing and testing processes as part of the chemistry, manufacturing, and controls information we submit as part of our application;

 

   

approval may be granted only for indications that are significantly more limited than what we apply for and/or with other significant restrictions on distribution and use;

 

   

such authorities may find deficiencies in the manufacturing processes, approval policies or facilities of our third-party manufacturers with which we or any of our current or future collaborators contract for clinical and commercial supplies;

 

   

regulations of such authorities may significantly change in a manner rendering our or any of our potential future collaborators’ clinical data insufficient for approval; or

 

   

such authorities may not accept a submission due to, among other reasons, the content or formatting of the submission.

Any delays in the marketing approval of our product candidates may negatively impact our ability to successfully position the product candidate in the market or the product candidate may face additional competition from other products.

With respect to foreign markets, marketing approval procedures vary among countries and, in addition to the foregoing risks, may involve additional product testing, administrative review periods and agreements with pricing authorities. In addition, events raising questions about the safety of certain marketed biopharmaceuticals may result in increased cautiousness by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities in reviewing new drugs based on safety, efficacy or other regulatory considerations and may result in significant delays in obtaining marketing approvals. Any delay in obtaining, or inability to obtain, applicable marketing approvals would prevent us or any of our potential future collaborators from commercializing our product candidates.

We are required by the FDA (or comparable regulatory authority) to obtain approval or clearance of a companion diagnostic test in connection with approval of any of our product candidates. If we do not obtain or we face delays in obtaining approval of a diagnostic test, we may not be able to commercialize the product candidate and our ability to generate revenue will be materially impaired.

If we are required by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities to obtain approval or clearance of a companion diagnostic test in connection with marketing approval of any of our product candidates,

 

23


Table of Contents

such companion diagnostic test would be used during our more advanced phase clinical trials as well as in connection with the commercialization of our product candidates. We will rely on third parties for the design, development and manufacture of companion diagnostic tests for our product candidates that may require such tests. If we enter into such collaborative agreements, we will be dependent on the sustained cooperation and effort of our future collaborators in developing and obtaining approval or clearance for these companion diagnostics. To be successful in developing and commercializing product candidates in combination with these companion diagnostics, we and our future collaborators will need to address a number of scientific, technical, regulatory and logistical challenges. According to FDA guidance, if the FDA determines that a companion diagnostic device is essential to the safe and effective use of a novel therapeutic product or indication, the FDA generally will not approve the therapeutic product or new therapeutic product indication if the companion diagnostic is not also approved or cleared at the same time the product candidate is approved. To date, the FDA has required marketing approval of all companion diagnostic tests for cancer therapies. Various foreign regulatory authorities also regulate in vitro companion diagnostics as medical devices and, under those regulatory frameworks, will likely require the conduct of clinical trials to demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of these companion diagnostics, which we expect will require separate regulatory clearance or approval prior to commercialization.

The approval or clearance of a companion diagnostic as part of the therapeutic product’s labeling limits the use of the therapeutic product to only those patients who express certain biomarkers or the specific genomic alteration that the companion diagnostic was developed to detect. If the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities require approval or clearance of a companion diagnostic for any of our product candidates, whether before or concurrently with marketing approval of the product candidate, we and/or our collaborators, may encounter difficulties in developing and obtaining approval or clearance for these companion diagnostics. Any delay or failure by us or potential future collaborators to develop or obtain regulatory approval or clearance of a companion diagnostic could delay or prevent approval or continued marketing of our related product candidates. Further, in April 2020, the FDA issued new guidance on developing and labeling companion diagnostics for a specific group of oncology therapeutic products, including recommendations to support a broader labeling claim rather than individual therapeutic products. We will continue to evaluate the impact of this guidance on any companion diagnostic strategy we undertake. This guidance and future issuances from the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities may impact our product candidates and result in delays in regulatory approval. We may be required to conduct additional studies to support a broader claim. Also, to the extent other approved diagnostics are able to broaden their labeling claims to include our approved drug products, we may be forced to abandon any partnered companion diagnostic development plans we undertake or we may not be able to compete effectively upon marketing approval, which could adversely impact our ability to generate revenue from the sale of our approved products and our business operations.

Moreover, even if data from preclinical studies and early clinical trials appear to support development of a companion diagnostic for a product candidate, data generated in later clinical trials may fail to support the analytical and clinical validation of the companion diagnostic. We and our future collaborators may encounter difficulties in developing, obtaining regulatory approval or clearance for, manufacturing and commercializing companion diagnostics similar to those we face with respect to our product candidates themselves, including issues with achieving regulatory clearance or approval, production of sufficient quantities at commercial scale and with appropriate quality standards, and in gaining market acceptance. If we are unable to successfully develop companion diagnostics for our product candidates, or experience delays in doing so, the development of our product candidates may be adversely affected, our product candidates may not obtain marketing approval, and we may not realize the full commercial potential of any of our product candidates that obtain marketing approval. As a result, our business, results of operations and financial condition could be materially harmed. In addition, a diagnostic company with whom we contract may decide to discontinue selling or manufacturing the companion diagnostic test that we anticipate using in connection with development and commercialization of product candidates or our relationship with such diagnostic company may otherwise terminate. We may not be able to enter into arrangements with another diagnostic company to obtain supplies of an alternative diagnostic test for use in connection with the development and commercialization of our product candidates or do so on

 

24


Table of Contents

commercially reasonable terms, which could adversely affect and/or delay the development or commercialization of our product candidates.

We may expend our limited resources to pursue a particular product candidate and fail to capitalize on product candidates or indications that may be more profitable or for which there is a greater likelihood of success.

Because we have limited financial and managerial resources, we focus on specific product candidates, development programs and specific indications. As a result, we may forgo or delay pursuit of opportunities with other product candidates that could have had greater commercial potential. Our resource allocation decisions may cause us to fail to capitalize on viable potential commercial products or profitable market opportunities. Our spending on current and future research and development programs and product candidates for specific indications may not yield any commercially viable product candidates. If we do not accurately evaluate the commercial potential or target market for a particular product candidate, we may relinquish valuable rights to that product candidate through collaborations, licenses and other similar arrangements in cases in which it would have been more advantageous for us to retain sole development and commercialization rights to such product candidate.

We may not be able to obtain or maintain orphan drug designations for any of our product candidates, and we may be unable to maintain the benefits associated with orphan drug designation, including the potential for market exclusivity.

Regulatory authorities in some jurisdictions, including the United States and Europe, may designate drugs or biologics for relatively small patient populations as orphan drugs. Under the Orphan Drug Act of 1983, the FDA may designate a product as an orphan product if it is intended to treat a rare disease or condition, which is generally defined as a patient population of fewer than 200,000 individuals in the United States, or a patient population of greater than 200,000 individuals in the United States, but for which there is no reasonable expectation that the cost of developing the drug will be recovered from sales in the United States. In the European Union, the European Medicines Agency’s, or EMA’s, Committee for Orphan Medicinal Products grants orphan drug designation to promote the development of products that are intended for the diagnosis, prevention or treatment of a life-threatening or chronically debilitating condition affecting not more than five in 10,000 persons in the European Union. We have not received orphan drug designation in the United States for any product candidate. We may seek orphan drug designation in the United States and the European Union for TYRA-300 for patients with MIBC and other rare tumors susceptible to an FGFR3 therapy, and similar designations for our other product candidates in qualified patient populations. There can be no assurance that the FDA or the EMA’s Committee for Orphan Medicinal Products will grant orphan designation for any indication for which we apply, or that we will be able to maintain such designation.

In the United States, orphan designation entitles a party to financial incentives such as opportunities for grant funding toward clinical trial costs, tax advantages and user-fee waivers. In addition, if a product candidate that has orphan designation subsequently receives the first FDA approval for the disease for which it has such designation, the product is entitled to orphan drug exclusivity, which means that the FDA may not approve any other applications, including an NDA, to market the same product for the same indication for seven years, except in limited circumstances, such as a showing of clinical superiority to the product with orphan drug exclusivity or where the manufacturer is unable to assure sufficient product quantity. The applicable exclusivity period is ten years in Europe, but such exclusivity period can be reduced to six years if a product no longer meets the criteria for orphan designation or if the product is sufficiently profitable that market exclusivity is no longer justified.

Even if we obtain orphan drug exclusivity for a product, that exclusivity may not effectively protect the product from competition because different drugs can be approved for the same condition. Even after an orphan

 

25


Table of Contents

drug is approved, the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities can subsequently approve the same drug for the same condition if such regulatory authority concludes that the later drug is clinically superior because it is shown to be safer, more effective or makes a major contribution to patient care. Orphan drug exclusivity may also be lost if the FDA later determines that the initial request for designation was materially defective. In addition, orphan drug exclusivity does not prevent the FDA from approving competing drugs for the same or similar indication containing a different active ingredient. In addition, if a subsequent drug is approved for marketing for the same or a similar indication as any of our product candidates that receive marketing approval, we may face increased competition and lose market share regardless of orphan drug exclusivity. Orphan drug designation neither shortens the development time or regulatory review time of a drug nor gives the drug any advantage in the regulatory review or approval process.

If we successfully develop our product candidates, we may seek Breakthrough Therapy designation or Fast Track designation by the FDA for one or more of our product candidates, but we may not receive such designation, and even if we do, such designation may not lead to a faster development or regulatory review or approval process and it does not increase the likelihood that our product candidates will receive marketing approval.

We may seek Breakthrough Therapy or Fast Track designation for some of our product candidates. A Breakthrough Therapy is defined as a drug or biologic that is intended, alone or in combination with one or more other drugs or biologics, to treat a serious or life- threatening disease or condition and preliminary clinical evidence indicates that the drug may demonstrate substantial improvement over existing therapies on one or more clinically significant endpoints, such as substantial treatment effects observed early in clinical development. For drugs or biologics that have been designated as Breakthrough Therapies, interaction and communication between the FDA and the sponsor of the trial can help to identify the most efficient path for clinical development while minimizing the number of patients placed in ineffective control regimens.

Drugs or biologics designated as Breakthrough Therapies by the FDA may also be eligible for expedited review and approval. If a product candidate is intended for the treatment of a serious or life-threatening condition and clinical or preclinical data demonstrate the potential to address unmet medical needs for this condition, the sponsor may apply for Fast Track Designation. The FDA has broad discretion whether or not to grant this designation, so even if we believe a particular product candidate is eligible for this designation, we cannot assure you that the FDA would decide to grant it. Even if we obtain Fast Track Designation for one or more of our product candidates, we may not experience a faster development process, review or approval compared to non-expedited FDA review procedures. In addition, the FDA may withdraw Fast Track Designation if it believes that the designation is no longer supported. Fast Track Designation alone does not guarantee qualification for the FDA’s priority review procedures.

Whether to grant Breakthrough Therapy or Fast Track Designation is within the discretion of the FDA. Accordingly, even if we believe one of our product candidates meets the criteria for these designations, the FDA may disagree and instead determine not to make such designation. In any event, the receipt of either of these designations for a product candidate may not result in a faster development process, review or approval compared to product candidates considered for approval under non-expedited FDA review procedures and does not assure ultimate approval by the FDA. In addition, even if one or more of our product candidates qualify for either of these designations, the FDA may later decide that the product candidate no longer meet the conditions for qualification.

We may in the future conduct clinical trials for certain of our product candidates outside of the United States. However, the FDA and other foreign equivalents may not accept data from such trials, in which case our development plans will be delayed, which could materially harm our business.

We may conduct one or more of our clinical trials for our product candidates outside the United States. Although the FDA may accept data from clinical trials conducted outside the United States, acceptance of this data is subject to certain conditions imposed by the FDA. Where data from foreign clinical trials are intended to

 

26


Table of Contents

serve as the basis for marketing approval in the United States, the FDA will not approve the application on the basis of foreign data alone unless those data are applicable to the U.S. population and U.S. medical practice; the trials were performed by clinical investigators of recognized competence; and the data are considered valid without the need for an on-site inspection by the FDA or, if the FDA considers such an inspection to be necessary, the FDA is able to validate the data through an on-site inspection or other appropriate means. Additionally, the FDA’s clinical trial requirements, including sufficient size of patient populations and statistical powering, must be met. For trials that are conducted only at sites outside of the United States and not subject to an IND, the FDA requires the clinical trial to have been conducted in accordance with GCP and the FDA must be able to validate the data from the clinical trial through an on-site inspection if it deems such inspection necessary. For such trials not subject to an IND, the FDA generally does not provide advance comment on the clinical protocols for the trials, and therefore there is an additional potential risk that the FDA could determine that the trial design or protocol for a non-U.S. clinical trial was inadequate, which could require us to conduct additional clinical trials. In addition, such foreign trials would be subject to the applicable local laws of the foreign regulatory and legal requirements where the trials are conducted. There can be no assurance the FDA will accept data from clinical trials conducted outside of the United States. If the FDA does not accept data from our clinical trials of our product candidates, it would likely result in the need for additional clinical trials, which would be costly and time consuming and delay or permanently halt our development of our product candidates.

Interim, topline and preliminary data from our preclinical studies and clinical trials that we may announce or publish from time to time may change as more patient data become available and are subject to audit and verification procedures that could result in material changes in the final data.

From time to time, we may publicly disclose preliminary, interim or topline data from our preclinical studies and clinical trials. These interim updates are based on a preliminary analysis of then-available data, and the results and related findings and conclusions are subject to change following a more comprehensive review of the data related to the particular study or trial. For example, we may report responses in certain patients that are unconfirmed at the time and which do not ultimately result in confirmed responses to treatment after follow-up evaluations. We also make assumptions, estimations, calculations and conclusions as part of our analyses of data, and we may not have received or had the opportunity to fully and carefully evaluate all data. As a result, the topline results that we report may differ from future results of the same studies or trials, or different conclusions or considerations may qualify such results, once additional data have been received and fully evaluated. Topline data also remain subject to audit and verification procedures that may result in the final data being materially different from the preliminary data we previously published. As a result, topline data should be viewed with caution until the final data are available. In addition, we may report interim analyses of only certain endpoints rather than all endpoints. Interim data from clinical trials that we may complete are subject to the risk that one or more of the clinical outcomes may materially change as patient enrollment continues and more patient data become available. Adverse changes between interim data and final data could significantly harm our business and prospects. Further, additional disclosure of interim data by us or by our competitors in the future could result in volatility in the price of our common stock.

In addition, the information we choose to publicly disclose regarding a particular study or trial is typically selected from a more extensive amount of available information. Investors may not agree with what we determine is the material or otherwise appropriate information to include in our disclosure, and any information we determine not to disclose may ultimately be deemed significant with respect to future decisions, conclusions, views, activities or otherwise regarding a particular product candidate or our business. If the interim, topline or preliminary data that we report differ from late, final or actual results, or if others, including regulatory authorities, disagree with the conclusions reached, our ability to obtain approval for, and commercialize, any of our product candidates may be harmed, which could harm our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

 

27


Table of Contents

Where appropriate, we plan to secure approval from the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities through the use of accelerated approval pathways. If we are unable to obtain such approval, we may be required to conduct additional clinical trials beyond those that we contemplate, which could increase the expense of obtaining, and delay the receipt of, necessary marketing approvals. Even if we receive accelerated approval from the FDA, if our confirmatory trials do not verify clinical benefit, or if we do not comply with rigorous post-marketing requirements, the FDA may seek to withdraw accelerated approval.

Where appropriate, we plan to seek an accelerated approval for one or more of our product candidates. Under the accelerated approval program, the FDA may grant accelerated approval to a product candidate designed to treat a serious or life-threatening condition that provides meaningful therapeutic benefit over available therapies upon a determination that the product candidate has an effect on a surrogate endpoint or intermediate clinical endpoint that is reasonably likely to predict clinical benefit. The FDA considers a clinical benefit to be a positive therapeutic effect that is clinically meaningful in the context of a given disease, such as irreversible morbidity or mortality. For the purposes of accelerated approval, a surrogate endpoint is a marker, such as a laboratory measurement, radiographic image, physical sign, or other measure that is thought to predict clinical benefit, but is not itself a measure of clinical benefit. An intermediate clinical endpoint is a clinical endpoint that can be measured earlier than an effect on irreversible morbidity or mortality that is reasonably likely to predict an effect on irreversible morbidity or mortality or other clinical benefit. The accelerated approval pathway may be used in cases in which the advantage of a new drug or biologic over available therapy may not be a direct therapeutic advantage, but is a clinically important improvement from a patient and public health perspective. If granted, accelerated approval is usually contingent on the sponsor’s agreement to conduct, in a diligent manner, additional post- approval confirmatory studies to verify and describe the drug’s clinical benefit. If such post-approval studies fail to confirm the drug or biologic’s clinical benefit or are not completed in a timely manner, the FDA may withdraw its approval of the drug or biologic.

We have not yet applied for accelerated approval by the FDA. Prior to seeking accelerated approval for any of our product candidates, we intend to seek feedback from the FDA and will otherwise evaluate our ability to seek and receive accelerated approval. There can be no assurance that after our evaluation of the feedback and other factors, we will decide to pursue or submit an NDA for accelerated approval or any other form of expedited development, review or approval. Similarly, there can be no assurance that after subsequent FDA feedback we will continue to pursue or apply for accelerated approval or any other form of expedited development, review or approval program, even if we initially decide to do so. Furthermore, if we decide to submit an application for accelerated approval or receive an expedited regulatory designation (e.g., breakthrough therapy designation) for our product candidates, there can be no assurance that such submission or application will be accepted or that any expedited development, review or approval will be granted on a timely basis, or at all. The FDA or other comparable foreign regulatory authorities could also require us to conduct further studies prior to considering our application or granting approval of any type. A failure to obtain accelerated approval or any other form of expedited development, review or approval for our product candidate would result in a longer time period to commercialization of such product candidate, if any, could increase the cost of development of such product candidate and could harm our competitive position in the marketplace.

Disruptions at the FDA and other government agencies caused by funding shortages or global health concerns could hinder their ability to hire, retain or deploy key leadership and other personnel, or otherwise prevent new or modified products from being developed, approved or commercialized in a timely manner or at all, which could negatively impact our business.

The ability of the FDA to review and approve new products can be affected by a variety of factors, including government budget and funding levels, statutory, regulatory and policy changes, the FDA’s ability to hire and retain key personnel and accept the payment of user fees, and other events that may otherwise affect the FDA’s ability to perform routine functions. Average review times at the agency have fluctuated in recent years as a result. In addition, government funding of other government agencies that fund research and development activities is subject to the political process, which is inherently fluid and unpredictable. Disruptions at the FDA and other agencies may also slow the time necessary for new drugs and biologics or modifications to approved

 

28


Table of Contents

drugs and biologics to be reviewed and/or approved by necessary government agencies, which would adversely affect our business. For example, over the last several years, including for 35 days beginning on December 22, 2018, the U.S. government has shut down several times and certain regulatory agencies, such as the FDA, have had to furlough critical FDA employees and stop critical activities.

Separately, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, on March 10, 2020 the FDA announced its intention to postpone most inspections of foreign manufacturing facilities and products and subsequently, on March 18, 2020, the FDA announced its intention to temporarily postpone routine surveillance inspections of domestic manufacturing facilities. On July 10, 2020, the FDA announced its intention to resume certain on-site inspections of domestic manufacturing facilities subject to a risk-based prioritization system. And on April 14, 2021, the FDA announced guidance regarding Remote Interactive Evaluations, and how they will be requested by the FDA and conducted for the duration of the COVID-19 public health emergency at any facility where pharmaceutical products, including biological products, are manufactured, processed, packed or held; facilities covered under the FDA’s bioresearch monitoring program; and outsourcing facilities registered under FDCA section 503B. The FDA intends to use information from remote interactive evaluations to meet user-fee commitments and to update facilities information, when deemed appropriate based on risk and history of compliance with FDA regulations. Facilities can choose to decline the FDA’s request to perform a remote facility evaluation; however, this may delay the agency’s ability to evaluate the facility or product and make a regulatory decision. The FDA will not accept requests from applicants or facilities to perform a remote interactive evaluation, as decisions to offer a remote interactive evaluation will rest with the FDA, based on risk and compliance history.

Regulatory authorities outside the United States may adopt similar restrictions or other policy measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. If a prolonged government shutdown occurs, or if global health concerns prevent the FDA or other regulatory authorities from conducting their regular inspections, reviews or other regulatory activities, it could significantly impact the ability of the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities to timely review and process our regulatory submissions, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Changes in methods of product candidate manufacturing or formulation may result in additional costs or delay.

As product candidates progress through preclinical studies and clinical trials to marketing approval and commercialization, it is common that various aspects of the development program, such as manufacturing methods and formulation, are altered along the way in an effort to optimize safety, efficacy, yield and manufacturing batch size, minimize costs and achieve consistent quality and results. For example, we have recently changed the delivery vehicle we use in our formulation for TYRA-300 from polyethylene glycol 400 to a cyclodextrin based vehicle. While we have observed positive results in a preclinical model using this new delivery vehicle, any further changes in formulation may result in effects and results that are different from those observed in our completed preclinical studies to date. Similarly, in the future we may introduce an alternative formulation of one or more of our product candidates during the course of our planned clinical trials. Such changes carry the risk that they will not achieve these intended objectives. Any of these changes could cause our product candidates to perform differently and affect the results of planned clinical trials or other future clinical trials conducted with the altered materials. This could delay initiation or completion of clinical trials, require the conduct of bridging studies or clinical trials or the repetition of one or more studies or clinical trials, increase development costs, delay approval of our product candidates and jeopardize our ability to commercialize our product candidates, if approved, and generate revenue.

Risks Related to Our Reliance on Third Parties

We intend to rely on third parties for the manufacture of our product candidates for preclinical and clinical development. This reliance on third parties increases the risk that we will not have sufficient quantities of our product candidates or products or such quantities at an acceptable cost, which could delay, prevent or impair our development or commercialization efforts.

We do not own or operate manufacturing facilities and have no plans to develop our own clinical or commercial-scale manufacturing capabilities. We plan to rely, and expect to continue to rely, on third parties for

 

29


Table of Contents

the manufacture of our product candidates and related raw materials for preclinical and clinical development, as well as for commercial manufacture if any of our product candidates receive marketing approval. The facilities used by third-party manufacturers to manufacture our product candidates must be approved by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities pursuant to inspections that will be conducted after we submit an NDA to the FDA or any comparable filing to a foreign regulatory authority. We do not control the manufacturing process of, and are completely dependent on, third-party manufacturers for compliance with cGMP requirements for manufacture of products. If these third-party manufacturers cannot successfully manufacture material that conforms to our specifications and the strict regulatory requirements of the FDA or any comparable foreign regulatory authority, they will not be able to secure and/or maintain marketing approval for their manufacturing facilities. In addition, we have no control over the ability of third-party manufacturers to maintain adequate quality control, quality assurance, qualified personnel, and accurate and complete recordkeeping. If the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities does not approve these facilities for the manufacture of our product candidates or if it withdraws any such approval in the future, we may need to find alternative manufacturing facilities, which would significantly impact our ability to develop, obtain marketing approval for or market our product candidates, if approved. Our failure, or the failure of our third-party manufacturers, to comply with applicable regulations could result in sanctions being imposed on us or the third-party manufacturers, including clinical holds, fines, injunctions, civil penalties, delays, suspension or withdrawal of approvals, seizures or recalls of product candidates or products, operating restrictions and criminal prosecutions, any of which could significantly and adversely affect supplies of our products.

Our or a third party’s failure to execute on our manufacturing requirements on commercially reasonable terms and in compliance with cGMP could adversely affect our business in a number of ways, including:

 

   

an inability to initiate clinical trials of our product candidates under development;

 

   

delay in submitting regulatory applications, or receiving marketing approvals, for our product candidates;

 

   

subjecting third-party manufacturing facilities or our manufacturing facilities to additional inspections by regulatory authorities;

 

   

requirements to cease development or to recall batches of our product candidates; and

 

   

in the event of approval to market and commercialize our product candidates, an inability to meet commercial demands for our product candidates or any other future product candidates.

In addition, we do not have any long-term commitments or supply agreements with our third party manufacturers. We may be unable to establish any agreements with third-party manufacturers or to do so on acceptable terms, which increases the risk of timely obtaining sufficient quantities of our product candidates or such quantifies at an acceptable cost. Even if we are able to establish agreements with third-party manufacturers, reliance on third-party manufacturers entails additional risks, including:

 

   

failure of third-party manufacturers to comply with regulatory requirements and maintain quality assurance;

 

   

breach of the manufacturing agreement by the third party;

 

   

failure to manufacture our product according to our specifications;

 

   

failure to manufacture our product according to our schedule or at all;

 

   

misappropriation of our proprietary information, including our trade secrets and know-how; and

 

30


Table of Contents
   

termination or nonrenewal of the agreement by the third party at a time that is costly or inconvenient for us.

Our product candidates and any products that receive marketing approval may compete with the product candidates and products of other companies for access to manufacturing facilities. There are a limited number of manufacturers that operate under cGMP regulations and that might be capable of manufacturing for us. Public health emergencies, such as that declared for COVID-19, might cause third-party manufacturers with whom we contract to prioritize the production of other products, possibly at the direction of the United States. or other government. This could lead to a delay in the manufacture of our product candidates or any products that receive marketing approval, and negatively impact the supply of such product candidates or products for clinical trials or commercialization.

Any performance failure on the part of our existing or future manufacturers could delay clinical development or marketing approval, and any related remedial measures may be costly or time consuming to implement. We do not currently have arrangements in place for redundant supply or a second source for all required raw materials used in the manufacture of our product candidates. If our existing or future third-party manufacturers cannot perform as agreed, we may be required to replace such manufacturers and we may be unable to replace them on a timely basis or at all. In particular, any replacement of our manufacturers could require significant effort and expertise because there may be a limited number of qualified replacements. In some cases, the technical skills or technology required to manufacture our product candidates may be unique or proprietary to the original manufacturer and we may have difficulty transferring such skills or technology to another third-party and a feasible alternative may not exist. In addition, certain of our product candidates and our own proprietary methods have never been produced or implemented outside of our company, and we may therefore experience delays to our development programs if and when we attempt to establish new third-party manufacturing arrangements for these product candidates or methods.

Our current and anticipated future dependence upon others for the manufacture of our product candidates or products may adversely affect our future profit margins and our ability to commercialize any products that receive marketing approval on a timely and competitive basis.

Our reliance on third parties requires us to share our confidential information, which increases the possibility that confidential information will be misappropriated or disclosed.

Because we currently plan to rely on third parties to manufacture our product candidates and to perform quality testing, we must, at times, share our proprietary technology and confidential information with them. We seek to protect our proprietary technology, in part, by entering into confidentiality agreements, and, if applicable, material transfer agreements, collaborative research agreements, consulting agreements or other similar agreements with our advisors, employees and consultants prior to beginning research or disclosing proprietary information. These agreements typically limit the rights of the third parties to use or disclose our confidential information. Despite the contractual provisions employed when working with third parties, the need to share confidential information increases the risk that such trade secrets become known by our competitors, are intentionally or inadvertently incorporated into the technology of others or are disclosed or used in violation of these agreements. Given that our proprietary position is based, in part, on our know-how and confidential information and despite our efforts to protect our confidential information, a competitor’s discovery of our proprietary technology and confidential information or other unauthorized use or disclosure would impair our competitive position and may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

 

31


Table of Contents

We may seek to enter into collaborations, licenses and other similar arrangements and may not be successful in doing so, and even if we are, we may relinquish valuable rights and may not realize the benefits of such relationships.

We may seek to enter into collaborations, joint ventures, licenses and other similar arrangements for the development or commercialization of our product candidates, due to capital costs required to develop or commercialize the product candidate or manufacturing constraints. We may not be successful in our efforts to establish such collaborations for our product candidates because our research and development pipeline may be insufficient, our product candidates may be deemed to be at too early of a stage of development for collaborative effort or third parties may not view our product candidates as having the requisite potential to demonstrate safety and efficacy or significant commercial opportunity. In addition, we face significant competition in seeking appropriate strategic partners, and the negotiation process can be time-consuming and complex. We may have to relinquish valuable rights to our future revenue streams, research programs or product candidates, or grant licenses on terms that may not be favorable to us, as part of any such arrangement, and such arrangements may restrict us from entering into additional agreements with other potential collaborators. We cannot be certain that, following a collaboration, license or strategic transaction, we will achieve an economic benefit that justifies such transaction.

Even if we are successful in our efforts to establish such collaborations, the terms that we agree upon may not be favorable to us, and we may not be able to maintain such collaborations if, for example, the development or approval of a product candidate is delayed, the safety of a product candidate is questioned or the sales of an approved product candidate are unsatisfactory.

In addition, any potential future collaborations may be terminable by our strategic partners, and we may not be able to adequately protect our rights under these agreements. Furthermore, strategic partners may negotiate for certain rights to control decisions regarding the development and commercialization of our product candidates, if approved, and may not conduct those activities in the same manner as we do. Any termination of collaborations we enter into in the future, or any delay in entering into collaborations related to our product candidates, could delay the development and commercialization of our product candidates and reduce their competitiveness if they reach the market, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We rely on third parties to conduct some of our preclinical studies and will rely on third parties to conduct our clinical trials. If these third parties do not successfully carry out their contractual duties, comply with applicable regulatory requirements or meet expected deadlines, our development programs and our ability to seek or obtain marketing approval for or commercialize our product candidates may be delayed.

We are dependent on third parties to conduct some of our preclinical studies and expect to rely on such third parties for our clinical trials, including our planned Phase 1/2 clinical trial of TYRA-300. Specifically, we have used and relied on, or intend to use and rely on, medical institutions, clinical investigators, CROs, contract development and manufacturing organizations, and consultants to conduct some of our preclinical studies and to conduct planned clinical trials in accordance with our clinical protocols and regulatory requirements. These CROs, investigators and other third parties play a significant role in the conduct and timing of these preclinical studies and clinical trials and subsequent collection and analysis of data. While we have and will have agreements governing the activities of our CROs, investigators and other third-party contractors, we have limited influence over their actual performance. Nevertheless, we are responsible for ensuring that each of our clinical trials is conducted in accordance with the applicable protocol and legal, regulatory and scientific standards, and our reliance on our CROs and other third parties does not relieve us of our regulatory responsibilities. We and our CROs are required to comply with GLP and GCP requirements, which are regulations and guidelines enforced by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities for all of our product candidates in preclinical and clinical development. Regulatory authorities enforce these requirements through periodic inspections of trial sponsors, principal investigators, trial sites, and other third parties. If we or any of our CROs, trial sites or other

 

32


Table of Contents

third parties fail to comply with applicable GLP or GCP or other requirements, the clinical data generated in our clinical trials may be deemed unreliable, and the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities may require us to perform additional preclinical studies or clinical trials before approving our marketing applications. In addition, our clinical trials must be conducted with products produced under cGMP regulations. Our failure to comply with these regulations may require us to repeat clinical trials, which would delay the marketing approval process.

There is no guarantee that any of our CROs, investigators or other third parties will devote adequate time and resources to such trials or perform as contractually required. If any of these third parties fail to meet expected deadlines, adhere to our clinical protocols or meet regulatory requirements, or otherwise performs in a substandard manner, our clinical trials may be extended, delayed or terminated. In addition, many of the third parties with whom we contract may also have relationships with other commercial entities, including our competitors, for whom they may also be conducting clinical trials or other development activities that could harm our competitive position. In addition, principal investigators for our clinical trials may also serve as scientific advisors or consultants to us from time to time and may receive cash or equity compensation in connection with such services. If these relationships and any related compensation result in perceived or actual conflicts of interest, or the FDA concludes that the financial relationship may have affected the interpretation of the study, the integrity of the data generated at the applicable clinical trial site may be questioned and the utility of the clinical trial itself may be jeopardized, which could result in the delay or rejection by the FDA of any NDA we submit. Any such delay or rejection could prevent us from commercializing our product candidates.

Our CROs have the right to terminate their agreements with us in the event of an uncured material breach. In addition, some of our CROs have an ability to terminate their respective agreements with us if we make a general assignment for the benefit of our creditors or if we are liquidated. If any of our relationships with these third parties terminate, we may not be able to enter into arrangements with alternative third parties on commercially reasonable terms or at all. Switching or adding additional CROs, investigators and other third parties involves additional cost and requires our management’s time and focus. In addition, there is a natural transition period when a new CRO, investigator or other third party contractor commences work. As a result, delays occur, which can materially impact our ability to meet our desired clinical development timelines. Though we carefully manage our relationships with our CROs, investigators and other third parties, there can be no assurance that we will not encounter challenges or delays in the future or that these delays or challenges will not have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and prospects.

Risks Related to Commercialization of Our Product Candidates

Even if we receive marketing approval for any product candidate, we will be subject to ongoing regulatory obligations and continued regulatory review, which may result in significant additional expense. Additionally, our product candidates, if approved, could be subject to labeling and other restrictions on marketing or withdrawal from the market, and we may be subject to penalties if we fail to comply with regulatory requirements or if we experience unanticipated problems with our product candidates, when and if any of them are approved.

Following potential approval of any our product candidates, the FDA may impose significant restrictions on a product’s indicated uses or marketing or impose ongoing requirements for potentially costly and time consuming post-approval studies, post-market surveillance or clinical trials to monitor the safety and efficacy of the product, may contain significant limitations related to use restrictions for specified age groups, warnings, precautions or contraindications, and may include burdensome post-approval study or risk management requirements. For example, the FDA may require a REMS, as a condition of approval of our product candidates, which could include requirements for a medication guide, physician communication plans or additional elements to ensure safe use, such as restricted distribution methods, patient registries and other risk minimization tools. In addition, if the FDA or a comparable foreign regulatory authority approves our product candidates, the manufacturing processes, labeling, packaging, distribution, adverse event reporting, storage,

 

33


Table of Contents

advertising, promotion, import, export recordkeeping, and other activities relating to our products will be subject to extensive and ongoing regulatory requirements. These requirements include submissions of safety and other post-marketing information and reports, registration, as well as continued compliance with cGMP and GCP requirements for any clinical trials that we conduct post- approval. Manufacturers of approved products and their facilities are subject to continual review and periodic, unannounced inspections by the FDA and other regulatory authorities for compliance with cGMP regulations and standards. Later discovery of previously unknown problems with our products, including additional adverse events or adverse events of unanticipated severity or frequency, or with our third-party manufacturers or manufacturing processes, or failure to comply with regulatory requirements, may result in, among other things:

 

   

restrictions on the marketing or manufacturing of our products, withdrawal of the product from the market or product recalls;

 

   

restrictions on product distribution or use, or requirements to conduct post-marketing studies or clinical trials;

 

   

fines, restitutions, disgorgement of profits or revenues, civil money penalties, warning letters, untitled letters or holds on clinical trials;

 

   

refusal by the FDA to approve pending applications or supplements to approved applications filed by us or suspension or revocation of approvals;

 

   

product seizure or detention, or refusal to permit the import or export of our products; and

 

   

injunctions or the imposition of civil or criminal penalties.

The occurrence of any event or penalty described above may inhibit our ability to commercialize our product candidates and generate revenue and could require us to expend significant time and resources in response and could generate negative publicity.

In addition, if any of our product candidates are approved, our product labeling, advertising and promotion will be subject to regulatory requirements and continuing regulatory review. The FDA strictly regulates the promotional claims that may be made about drug products. In particular, a product may not be promoted for uses that are not approved by the FDA as reflected in the product’s approved labeling. If we receive marketing approval for a product candidate, physicians may nevertheless, in their independent medical judgment, prescribe it to their patients in a manner that is inconsistent with the approved label. The FDA does not regulate the behavior of physicians in their choice of treatments but the FDA does restrict manufacturer’s communications on the subject of off-label use of their products. If we are found to have promoted such off-label uses, we may become subject to significant liability. The FDA, the Department of Justice, and other governmental authorities actively enforce the laws and regulations prohibiting the promotion of off-label uses, and a company that is found to have improperly promoted off-label uses may be subject to significant sanctions. For example, the federal government has levied large civil and criminal fines against companies for alleged improper promotion and has enjoined several companies from engaging in off-label promotion. The FDA has also requested that companies enter into corporate integrity agreements, consent decrees or permanent injunctions under which specified promotional conduct is changed or curtailed.

The FDA’s and other regulatory authorities’ policies may change and additional government regulations may be enacted that could prevent, limit or delay marketing approval of our product candidates. If we are slow or unable to adapt to changes in existing requirements or the adoption of new requirements or policies, or if we are not able to maintain regulatory compliance, we may lose any marketing approval that we may have obtained and we may not achieve or sustain profitability.

 

34


Table of Contents

We also cannot predict the likelihood, nature or extent of government regulation that may arise from future legislation or administrative or executive action, either in the United States or abroad. For example, certain policies of the current U.S. administration may impact our business and industry. Namely, the current U.S. administration has taken several executive actions, including the issuance of a number of Executive Orders, that could impose significant burdens on, or otherwise materially delay, the FDA’s ability to engage in routine regulatory and oversight activities such as implementing statutes through rulemaking, issuance of guidance, and review and approval of marketing applications. It is difficult to predict how these executive actions, including the Executive Orders, will be implemented, and the extent to which they will impact the FDA’s ability to exercise its regulatory authority. If these executive actions impose constraints on the FDA’s ability to engage in oversight and implementation activities in the normal course, our business may be negatively impacted.

If we are slow or unable to adapt to changes in existing requirements or the adoption of new requirements or policies, or if we are not able to maintain regulatory compliance, we may lose any marketing approval that we may have obtained and we may not achieve or sustain profitability, which would adversely affect our business, prospects, financial condition and results of operations.

The commercial success of our product candidates will depend upon the degree of market acceptance of such product candidates by physicians, patients, healthcare payors and others in the medical community.

Our product candidates may not be commercially successful. Even if any of our product candidates receive marketing approval, they may not gain market acceptance among physicians, patients, healthcare payors or the medical community. The commercial success of any of our current or future product candidates will depend significantly on the broad adoption and use of the resulting product by physicians and patients for approved indications. The degree of market acceptance of our products will depend on a number of factors, including:

 

   

demonstration of clinical efficacy and safety compared to other more-established products;

 

   

the indications for which our product candidates are approved;

 

   

the limitation of our targeted patient population and other limitations or warnings contained in any FDA-approved labeling;

 

   

acceptance of a new drug for the relevant indication by healthcare providers and their patients;

 

   

the pricing and cost-effectiveness of our products, as well as the cost of treatment with our products in relation to alternative treatments and therapies;

 

   

our ability to obtain and maintain sufficient third-party coverage and adequate reimbursement from government healthcare programs, including Medicare and Medicaid, private health insurers and other third-party payors;

 

   

the willingness of patients to pay all, or a portion of, out-of-pocket costs associated with our products in the absence of sufficient third-party coverage and adequate reimbursement;

 

   

any restrictions on the use of our products, and the prevalence and severity of any adverse effects;

 

   

potential product liability claims;

 

   

the timing of market introduction of our products as well as competitive drugs;

 

   

the effectiveness of our or any of our current or potential future collaborators’ sales and marketing strategies; and

 

35


Table of Contents
   

unfavorable publicity relating to the product.

If any product candidate is approved but does not achieve an adequate level of acceptance by physicians, hospitals, healthcare payors or patients, we may not generate sufficient revenue from that product and may not become or remain profitable. Our efforts to educate the medical community and third-party payors regarding the benefits of our products may require significant resources and may never be successful.

We currently have no marketing and sales organization and have no experience as a company in commercializing products, and we may have to invest significant resources to develop these capabilities. If we are unable to establish marketing and sales capabilities or enter into agreements with third parties to market and sell our products, we may not be able to generate product revenue.

We have no internal sales, marketing or distribution capabilities, nor have we commercialized a product. If any of our product candidates ultimately receives marketing approval, we must build a marketing and sales organization with technical expertise and supporting distribution capabilities to commercialize each such product in major markets, which will be expensive and time consuming, or collaborate with third parties that have direct sales forces and established distribution systems, either to augment our own sales force and distribution systems or in lieu of our own sales force and distribution systems. We have no prior experience as a company in the marketing, sale and distribution of biopharmaceutical products and there are significant risks involved in building and managing a sales organization, including our ability to hire, retain and incentivize qualified individuals, generate sufficient sales leads, provide adequate training to sales and marketing personnel and effectively manage a geographically dispersed sales and marketing team. Any failure or delay in the development of our internal sales, marketing and distribution capabilities would adversely impact the commercialization of these products. We may not be able to enter into collaborations or hire consultants or external service providers to assist us in sales, marketing and distribution functions on acceptable financial terms, or at all. In addition, our product revenues and our profitability, if any, may be lower if we rely on third parties for these functions than if we were to market, sell and distribute any products that we develop ourselves. We likely will have little control over such third parties, and any of them may fail to devote the necessary resources and attention to sell and market our products effectively. If we are not successful in commercializing our products, either on our own or through arrangements with one or more third parties, we may not be able to generate any future product revenue and we would incur significant additional losses.

The successful commercialization of our product candidates, if approved, will depend in part on the extent to which governmental authorities and health insurers establish coverage, adequate reimbursement levels and favorable pricing policies. Failure to obtain or maintain coverage and adequate reimbursement for our products could limit our ability to market those products and decrease our ability to generate revenue.

The availability of coverage and the adequacy of reimbursement by governmental healthcare programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, private health insurers and other third-party payors are essential for most patients to be able to afford prescription medications such as our product candidates, if approved. Our ability to achieve coverage and acceptable levels of reimbursement for our products by third-party payors will have an effect on our ability to successfully commercialize those products. Moreover, we are initially developing TYRA-300 for the treatment of MIBC, an indication with a small patient population. In order for products that are designed to treat smaller patient populations to be commercially viable, the reimbursement for such products must be higher, on a relative basis, to account for the lack of volume. Accordingly, we will need to implement a coverage and reimbursement strategy for any approved product candidate with a smaller patient population that accounts for the smaller potential market size. Even if we obtain coverage for a given product by a third-party payor, the resulting reimbursement payment rates may not be adequate or may require co-payments that patients find unacceptably high. For products administered under the supervision of a physician, obtaining coverage and adequate reimbursement may be particularly difficult because of the higher prices often associated with such drugs. Additionally, separate reimbursement for the product itself or the treatment or procedure in which the product is used may not be available, which may impact physician utilization. We cannot be sure that coverage

 

36


Table of Contents

and reimbursement in the United States, the European Union or elsewhere will be available for any product that we may develop, and any reimbursement that may become available may be decreased or eliminated in the future.

Obtaining and maintaining reimbursement status is time consuming, costly and uncertain. The Medicare and Medicaid programs increasingly are used as models for how private payors and other governmental payors develop their coverage and reimbursement policies for drugs. However, no uniform policy for coverage and reimbursement for products exists among third-party payors in the United States. Therefore, coverage and reimbursement for products can differ significantly from payor to payor. As a result, the coverage determination process is often a time consuming and costly process that will require us to provide scientific and clinical support for the use of our products to each payor separately, with no assurance that coverage and adequate reimbursement will be applied consistently or obtained in the first instance. Furthermore, rules and regulations regarding reimbursement change frequently, in some cases at short notice, and we believe that changes in these rules and regulations are likely.

Third-party payors increasingly are challenging prices charged for biopharmaceutical products and services, and many third-party payors may refuse to provide coverage and reimbursement for particular drugs when an equivalent generic drug or a less expensive therapy is available. It is possible that a third-party payor may consider our products as substitutable and only offer to reimburse patients for the less expensive product. Even if we are successful in demonstrating improved efficacy or improved convenience of administration with our products, pricing of existing drugs may limit the amount we will be able to charge for our products. These payors may deny or revoke the reimbursement status of a given product or establish prices for new or existing marketed products at levels that are too low to enable us to realize an appropriate return on our investment in product development. If reimbursement is not available or is available only at limited levels, we may not be able to successfully commercialize our product candidates and may not be able to obtain a satisfactory financial return on products that we may develop, once approved. In addition, in the event that we or third parties develop companion diagnostic tests for use with our products, once approved, such companion diagnostic tests will require coverage and reimbursement separate and apart from the coverage and reimbursement for their companion pharmaceutical or biological products. Similar challenges to obtaining coverage and reimbursement applicable to pharmaceutical or biological products will apply to companion diagnostics tests.

Outside the United States, international operations are generally subject to extensive governmental price controls and other market regulations, and we believe the increasing emphasis on cost-containment initiatives in Europe and other countries has and will continue to put pressure on the pricing and usage of our products, once approved. In many countries, the prices of medical products are subject to varying price control mechanisms as part of national health systems. Other countries allow companies to fix their own prices for medical products but monitor and control company profits. Additional foreign price controls or other changes in pricing regulation could restrict the amount that we are able to charge for our products. Accordingly, in markets outside the United States, the reimbursement for our products, once approved, may be reduced compared with the United States and may be insufficient to generate commercially reasonable revenue and profits.

Moreover, increasing efforts by governmental and third-party payors in the United States and abroad to cap or reduce healthcare costs may cause such organizations to limit both coverage and the level of reimbursement for newly approved products and, as a result, they may not cover or provide adequate payment for our products, once approved. We expect to experience pricing pressures in connection with the sale of any of our products due to the trend toward managed healthcare, the increasing influence of health maintenance organizations and additional legislative changes. The downward pressure on healthcare costs in general, particularly prescription drugs and surgical procedures and other treatments, has become very intense. As a result, increasingly high barriers are being erected to the entry of new products.

 

37


Table of Contents

We face significant competition, and if our competitors develop technologies or product candidates more rapidly than we do or their technologies are more effective, our business and our ability to develop and successfully commercialize products may be adversely affected.

The biotechnology and biopharmaceutical industries are characterized by rapidly advancing technologies, intense competition and a strong emphasis on proprietary and novel products and product candidates. Our competitors have developed, are developing or may develop products or product candidates competitive with our product candidates. Any product candidates that we successfully develop and commercialize will compete with existing therapies and new therapies that may become available in the future. We believe that a significant number of products are currently under development, and may become commercially available in the future, for the treatment of conditions for which we may attempt to develop product candidates. In particular, there is intense competition in the precision oncology field. Our competitors include larger and better-funded pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, biotechnological and therapeutics companies. Moreover, we may also compete with universities and other research institutions who may be active in the indications we are targeting and could be in direct competition with us. We also compete with these organizations to recruit management, scientists and clinical development personnel, which could negatively affect our level of expertise and our ability to execute our business plan. We will also face competition in establishing clinical trial sites, enrolling patients for clinical trials and in identifying and in-licensing new product candidates. Smaller or early stage companies may also prove to be significant competitors, particularly through collaborative arrangements with large and established companies.

We expect to face competition from existing products and products in development for each of our product candidates. There are three currently approved pan-FGFR inhibitors: Incyte Corporation’s Pemazyre® (pemigatinib) and QED Therapeutics’ Truseltiq® (infigratinib), approved in FGFR2 gene rearrangements in cholangiocarcinoma, and Janssen Biotech, Inc.’s Balversa® (erdafitinib), approved in specific FGFR3 and FGFR2 gene alterations. There are a number of other pan-FGFR programs in development for FGFR2 and FGFR3-specific populations, including, among others, Taiho Oncology, Inc.’s TAS-120 (futibatinib), Bayer Pharmaceutical’s BAY 1163877 (Rogaratinib), as well as isoform specific FGFR inhibitors such as Relay Therapeutics, Inc.’s RLY-4008 and Kinnate Biopharma Inc.’s KIN-3248. There are two approved RET inhibitors, Lilly’s Loxo Oncology’s Retevmo (selpercatinib) and Blueprint Medicines’ Gavreto (pralsetinib), as well as programs in development such as Turning Point’s TPX-0046 and Boston Pharmaceuticals’ BOS172738. There are currently no approved FGFR4 inhibitors, but there are a number of FGFR4 programs in clinical development, including Blueprint Medicines’ BLU-554 (fisogatinib), H3 Biomedicines’ H3B-6527 and Novartis’ FGF401.

Many of our competitors have significantly greater financial, technical, manufacturing, marketing, sales and supply resources or experience than we do. If we successfully obtain marketing approval for any product candidate, we will face competition based on many different factors, including the safety and effectiveness of our products, the ease with which our products can be administered and the extent to which patients accept relatively new routes of administration, the timing and scope of marketing approvals for these products, the availability and cost of manufacturing, marketing and sales capabilities, price, reimbursement coverage and patent position. Competing products could present superior treatment alternatives, including by being more effective, safer, more convenient, less expensive or marketed and sold more effectively than any products we may develop. Competitive products or technological approaches may make any products we develop obsolete or noncompetitive before we recover the expense of developing and commercializing our product candidates. If we are unable to compete effectively, our opportunity to generate revenue from the sale of our products we may develop, if approved, could be adversely affected.

If the market opportunities for our product candidates are smaller than we believe they are, our revenue may be adversely affected, and our business may suffer.

The precise incidence and prevalence for all the conditions we aim to address with our product candidates are unknown. Our projections of both the number of people who have these diseases, as well as the

 

38


Table of Contents

subset of people with these diseases who have the potential to benefit from treatment with our product candidates, are based on our beliefs and estimates. These estimates have been derived from a variety of sources, including the scientific literature, surveys of clinics, patient foundations or market research, and may prove to be incorrect. Further, new trials may change the estimated incidence or prevalence of these indications. The total addressable market across all of our product candidates will ultimately depend upon, among other things, the diagnosis criteria included in the final label for each of our product candidates which receives marketing approval for these indications, the availability of alternative treatments and the safety, convenience, cost and efficacy of our product candidates relative to such alternative treatments, acceptance by the medical community and patient access, drug pricing and reimbursement. The number of patients in the United States and other major markets and elsewhere may turn out to be lower than expected, patients may not be otherwise amenable to treatment with our product candidates or new patients may become increasingly difficult to identify or gain access to, all of which would adversely affect our results of operations and our business. Further, even if we obtain significant market share for our product candidates, because some of our potential target populations are very small, we may never achieve profitability despite obtaining such significant market share.

Our future growth may depend, in part, on our ability to operate in foreign markets, where we would be subject to additional regulatory burdens and other risks and uncertainties.

Our future growth may depend, in part, on our ability to develop and commercialize our product candidates in foreign markets. We are not permitted to market or promote any of our product candidates before we receive marketing approval from applicable regulatory authorities in foreign markets, and we may never receive such marketing approvals for any of our product candidates. To obtain separate marketing approval in many other countries we must comply with numerous and varying regulatory requirements regarding safety and efficacy and governing, among other things, clinical trials, commercial sales, pricing and distribution of our product candidates. If we obtain marketing approval of our product candidates and ultimately commercialize our products in foreign markets, we would be subject to additional risks and uncertainties, including:

 

   

different regulatory requirements for approval of drugs in foreign countries;

 

   

reduced protection for intellectual property rights;

 

   

the existence of additional third-party patent rights of potential relevance to our business;

 

   

unexpected changes in tariffs, trade barriers and regulatory requirements;

 

   

economic weakness, including inflation, or political instability in particular foreign economies and markets;

 

   

compliance with tax, employment, immigration and labor laws for employees living or traveling abroad;

 

   

foreign currency fluctuations, which could result in increased operating expenses and reduced revenues, and other obligations incident to doing business in another country;

 

   

foreign reimbursement, pricing and insurance regimes;

 

   

workforce uncertainty in countries where labor unrest is common;

 

   

production shortages resulting from any events affecting raw material supply or manufacturing capabilities abroad; and

 

   

business interruptions resulting from geopolitical actions, including war and terrorism, or natural disasters including earthquakes, typhoons, floods and fires.

 

39


Table of Contents

Risks Related to Our Business Operations and Industry

Our operating results may fluctuate significantly, which makes our future operating results difficult to predict and could cause our operating results to fall below expectations or any guidance we may provide.

Our quarterly and annual operating results may fluctuate significantly, which makes it difficult for us to predict our future operating results. These fluctuations may occur due to a variety of factors, many of which are outside of our control, including, but not limited to:

 

   

the timing and cost of, and level of investment in, research, development, marketing approval and commercialization activities relating to our product candidates, which may change from time to time;

 

   

coverage and reimbursement policies with respect to our product candidates, if approved, and potential future drugs that compete with our products;

 

   

the cost of manufacturing our product candidates, which may vary depending on the quantity of production and the terms of our agreements with third-party manufacturers;

 

   

expenditures that we may incur to acquire, develop or commercialize additional product candidates and technologies;

 

   

the level of demand for any approved products, which may vary significantly;

 

   

future accounting pronouncements or changes in our accounting policies; and

 

   

the timing and success or failure of preclinical studies or clinical trials for our product candidates or competing product candidates, or any other change in the competitive landscape of our industry, including consolidation among our competitors or partners.

The cumulative effects of these factors could result in large fluctuations and unpredictability in our quarterly and annual operating results. As a result, comparing our operating results on a period-to-period basis may not be meaningful. Investors should not rely on our past results as an indication of our future performance.

This variability and unpredictability could also result in our failing to meet the expectations of industry or financial analysts or investors for any period. If our revenue or operating results fall below the expectations of analysts or investors or below any forecasts we may provide to the market, or if the forecasts we provide to the market are below the expectations of analysts or investors, the price of our common stock could decline substantially. Such a stock price decline could occur even when we have met any previously publicly stated revenue or earnings guidance we may provide.

We are dependent on the services of our management and other clinical and scientific personnel, and if we are not able to retain these individuals or recruit additional management or clinical and scientific personnel, our business will suffer.

Our success depends in part on our continued ability to attract, retain, manage and motivate highly qualified management, clinical and scientific personnel. We are highly dependent upon our senior management, as well as our senior scientists and other members of our management team. The loss of services of any of these individuals could delay or prevent the successful development of our product pipeline, initiation or completion of our preclinical studies and clinical trials or the commercialization of our product candidates. Although we have executed employment agreements or offer letters with each member of our senior management team, these agreements are terminable at will with or without notice and, therefore, we may not be able to retain their

 

40


Table of Contents

services as expected. We do not currently maintain “key person” life insurance on the lives of our executives or any of our employees. This lack of insurance means that we may not have adequate compensation for the loss of the services of these individuals.

We will need to expand and effectively manage our managerial, operational, financial and other resources in order to successfully pursue our clinical development and commercialization efforts. We may not be successful in maintaining our unique company culture and continuing to attract or retain qualified management and scientific and clinical personnel in the future due to the intense competition for qualified personnel among biopharmaceutical, biotechnology and other businesses, particularly in the San Diego County area. Our industry has experienced a high rate of turnover of management personnel in recent years. If we are not able to attract, integrate, retain and motivate necessary personnel to accomplish our business objectives, we may experience constraints that will significantly impede the achievement of our development objectives, our ability to raise additional capital and our ability to implement our business strategy.

We have recently substantially increased, and will need to continue to grow, the size and capabilities of our organization, and we may experience difficulties in managing this growth.

We have substantially increased our organization from four employees as of December 31, 2019 to 16 full-time employees as of August 15, 2021, including 14 employees engaged in research and development. In order to successfully implement our development and commercialization plans and strategies, and as we transition into operating as a public company, we expect to need to continue to add significant additional managerial, operational, sales, marketing, financial and other personnel. Future growth will impose significant added responsibilities on members of management, including:

 

   

identifying, recruiting, integrating, maintaining, retaining and motivating our current and additional employees;

 

   

managing our internal development efforts effectively, including the preclinical, clinical, the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities’ review process for product candidates, while complying with any contractual obligations to contractors and other third parties;

 

   

managing increasing operational and managerial complexity; and

 

   

improving our operational, financial and management controls, reporting systems and procedures.

Our future financial performance and our ability to successfully develop and, if approved, commercialize product candidates developed from our FGFR and RET programs and other product candidates will depend, in part, on our ability to effectively manage any future growth, and our management may also have to divert a disproportionate amount of its attention away from day-to-day activities in order to devote a substantial amount of time to managing these growth activities.

If we are not able to effectively expand our organization by hiring new employees and/or engaging additional third-party service providers, we may not be able to successfully implement the tasks necessary to further develop and commercialize TYRA-300 and any of our other product candidates and, accordingly, may not achieve our research, development and commercialization goals.

We are subject to various federal, state and foreign healthcare laws and regulations, which could increase compliance costs, and our failure to comply with these laws and regulations could harm our results of operations and financial condition.

Our business operations and current and future arrangements with investigators, healthcare professionals, consultants, third-party payors and customers expose us to broadly applicable foreign, federal and state fraud and abuse and other healthcare laws and regulations. These laws may constrain the business

 

41


Table of Contents

or financial arrangements and relationships through which we conduct our operations, including how we research, market, sell and distribute any products for which we obtain marketing approval. Such laws include, without limitation:

 

   

the federal Anti-Kickback Statute, which is a criminal law that prohibits, among other things, persons or entities from knowingly and willfully soliciting, offering, receiving or providing any remuneration (including any kickback, bribe or certain rebates), directly or indirectly, overtly or covertly, in cash or in kind, in return for, either the referral of an individual or the purchase, lease, or order, or arranging for or recommending the purchase, lease, or order of any good, facility, item or service, for which payment may be made, in whole or in part, under a federal healthcare program such as Medicare and Medicaid. A person or entity does not need to have actual knowledge of the federal Anti- Kickback Statute or specific intent to violate it in order to have committed a violation;

 

   

the federal false claims laws, including the civil False Claims Act, and civil monetary penalties laws, which prohibit, among other things, individuals or entities from knowingly presenting, or causing to be presented, to the federal government, claims for payment or approval that are false or fraudulent, knowingly making, using or causing to be made or used, a false record or statement material to a false or fraudulent claim, or from knowingly making or causing to be made a false statement to avoid, decrease or conceal an obligation to pay money to the federal government. In addition, the government may assert that a claim including items or services resulting from a violation of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute constitutes a false or fraudulent claim for purposes of the civil False Claims Act;

 

   

the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, or HIPAA, which imposes criminal and civil liability for, among other things, knowingly and willfully executing, or attempting to execute, a scheme to defraud any healthcare benefit program, or knowingly and willfully falsifying, concealing or covering up a material fact or making any materially false statement, in connection with the delivery of, or payment for, healthcare benefits, items or services. Similar to the federal Anti-Kickback Statute, a person or entity does not need to have actual knowledge of the statute or specific intent to violate it in order to have committed a violation;

 

   

the federal Physician Payments Sunshine Act, which requires certain manufacturers of drugs, devices, biologics and medical supplies for which payment is available under Medicare, Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (with certain exceptions) to report annually to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, or CMS, information related to payments and other “transfers of value” made to physicians (defined to include doctors, dentists, optometrists, podiatrists and chiropractors) and teaching hospitals, as well as ownership and investment interests held by such healthcare professionals and their immediate family members. Beginning in 2022, applicable manufacturers also will be required to report such information regarding payments and transfers of value provided, as well as ownership and investment interests held, during the previous year to physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists, certified nurse anesthetists, anesthesiology assistants and certified nurse-midwives; and

 

   

analogous state and foreign laws and regulations, such as state anti-kickback and false claims laws, may apply to sales or marketing arrangements and claims involving healthcare items or services reimbursed by non-governmental third-party payors, including private insurers; some state laws require biopharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to comply with the industry’s voluntary compliance guidelines and the relevant compliance guidance promulgated by the federal government and may require drug manufacturers to report information related to payments and other transfers of value to physicians and other healthcare providers or marketing expenditures; some state laws that require biopharmaceutical and biotechnology companies to report information on the pricing of certain drug products; and some state and local laws require the registration or pharmaceutical sales representatives.

 

42


Table of Contents

Efforts to ensure that our current and future business arrangements with third parties will comply with applicable healthcare laws and regulations will involve ongoing substantial costs. It is possible that governmental authorities will conclude that our business practices, including certain arrangements with physicians who receive stock or stock options as compensation for services provided to us, may not comply with current or future statutes, regulations or case law involving applicable fraud and abuse or other healthcare laws and regulations. If our operations are found to be in violation of any of these laws or any other governmental regulations that may apply to us, we may be subject to significant penalties, including civil, criminal and administrative penalties, damages, fines, disgorgement, imprisonment, exclusion from participation in government funded healthcare programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, integrity oversight and reporting obligations, contractual damages, reputational harm, diminished profits and future earnings and the curtailment or restructuring of our operations. Defending against any such actions can be costly, time-consuming and may require significant financial and personnel resources. Therefore, even if we are successful in defending against any such actions that may be brought against us, our business may be impaired. Further, if any of the physicians or other healthcare providers or entities with whom we expect to do business is found to be not in compliance with applicable laws, they may be subject to significant criminal, civil or administrative sanctions, including exclusions from government funded healthcare programs.

We, our future collaborators and our service providers may be subject to a variety of privacy and data security laws and contractual obligations, which could increase compliance costs and our failure to comply with them could subject us to potentially significant fines or penalties and otherwise harm our business.

We are subject to laws and regulations governing the privacy and security of sensitive information, including confidential business and patient health information. The global data protection landscape is rapidly evolving, and we may be affected by or subject to new, amended or existing laws and regulations in the future, including as our operations continue to expand or if we operate in foreign jurisdictions. These laws and regulations may be subject to differing interpretations, which adds to the complexity of processing personal data. Guidance on implementation and compliance practices are often updated or otherwise revised.

In the United States, there are numerous federal and state privacy and data security laws and regulations governing the collection, use, disclosure and protection of personal information, including federal and state health information privacy laws, federal and state security breach notification laws and federal and state consumer protection laws. Each of these laws is subject to varying interpretations and constantly evolving. By way of example, HIPAA imposes privacy and security requirements and breach reporting obligations with respect to individually identifiable health information upon “covered entities” (health plans, health care clearinghouses and certain health care providers), and their respective business associates, individuals or entities that create, received, maintain or transmit protected health information in connection with providing a service for or on behalf of a covered entity. HIPAA mandates the reporting of certain breaches of health information to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, or HHS, affected individuals and if the breach is large enough, the media. Entities that are found to be in violation of HIPAA as the result of a breach of unsecured protected health information, a complaint about privacy practices or an audit by HHS, may be subject to significant civil, criminal and administrative fines and penalties and/or additional reporting and oversight obligations if required to enter into a resolution agreement and corrective action plan with HHS to settle allegations of HIPAA non-compliance. Even when HIPAA does not apply, according to the Federal Trade Commission, or FTC, failing to take appropriate steps to keep consumers’ personal information secure may constitute unfair acts or practices in or affecting commerce in violation of Section 5(a) of the Federal Trade Commission Act, or the FTCA, 15 U.S.C § 45(a). The FTC expects a company’s data security measures to be reasonable and appropriate in light of the sensitivity and volume of consumer information it holds, the size and complexity of its business and the cost of available tools to improve security and reduce vulnerabilities. Individually identifiable health information is considered sensitive data that merits stronger safeguards.

In addition, certain state laws govern the privacy and security of health information in certain circumstances, some of which are more stringent than HIPAA and many of which differ from each other in

 

43


Table of Contents

significant ways and may not have the same effect, thus complicating compliance efforts. By way of example, the California Consumer Privacy Act, or CCPA, which went into effect on January 1, 2020, gives California residents expanded rights to access and delete their personal information, opt out of certain personal information sharing, and receive detailed information about how their personal information is used. The CCPA provides for civil penalties for violations, as well as a private right of action for data breaches that is expected to increase data breach litigation. The CCPA may increase our compliance costs and potential liability. Further, in November 2020, California voters approved the California Privacy Rights Act, or CPRA, through a ballot measure. The CPRA will amend the CCPA, giving California residents additional control over their personal information and imposing further obligations on businesses processing the personal information of California residents. The CPRA includes the creation of a privacy-specific enforcement agency, the first of its kind in any U.S. state, which will be responsible for enforcing the new law. The CPRA takes effect on January 1, 2023. More recently, Virginia adopted a generally applicable privacy law, and other states are considering similar steps.

These laws subject us to increased regulatory scrutiny, litigation, and overall risk. State laws are changing rapidly and there is discussion in Congress of a new federal data protection and privacy law to which we would become subject, if it is enacted. Without an overarching federal law driving privacy compliance in the United States, however, the risk is high of a patchwork of privacy legislation formed by individual state laws, similar to the patchwork created by differing state data breach notification obligations. Requirements to comply with varying state laws not only increase costs for compliance, but also create the potential for enforcement by individual state attorneys general.

In the European Union, in May 2018, a new privacy regime, the General Data Protection Regulation, or GDPR, took effect in the European Economic Area, the EEA. The GDPR governs the collection, use, disclosure, transfer or other processing of personal data of European persons. The GDPR introduced new requirements for the protection of personal data subject to GDPR and provides for substantial fines for non-compliance, including fines up to the greater of EUR 20 million or 4% of a company’s annual global revenues.

The withdrawal of the UK from the EU further complicated European compliance obligations, as we must also comply with data privacy and security laws in effect in the UK that are substantially similar to the GDPR. Compliance with these and any other applicable privacy and data security laws and regulations is a rigorous and time-intensive process, and we may be required to put in place additional mechanisms ensuring compliance with the new data protection rules. If we fail to comply with any such laws or regulations, we may face significant fines and penalties that could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

Recently enacted legislation, future legislation and healthcare reform measures may increase the difficulty and cost for us to obtain marketing approval for and commercialize our product candidates and may affect the prices we may set.

In the United States and some foreign jurisdictions, there have been, and we expect there will continue to be, a number of legislative and regulatory changes to the healthcare system, including cost-containment measures that may reduce or limit coverage and reimbursement for newly approved drugs and affect our ability to profitably sell any product candidates for which we obtain marketing approval. In particular, there have been and continue to be a number of initiatives at the U.S. federal and state levels that seek to reduce healthcare costs and improve the quality of healthcare.

For example, in March 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, collectively, the ACA, was enacted in the United States. Among the provisions of the ACA of importance to our potential product candidates, the ACA: established an annual, nondeductible fee on any entity that manufactures or imports specified branded prescription drugs and biologic agents; extended manufacturers’ Medicaid rebate liability to covered drugs dispensed to individuals who are enrolled in Medicaid managed care organizations; expanded eligibility criteria for Medicaid programs; expanded

 

44


Table of Contents

the entities eligible for discounts under the 340B drug pricing program; increased the statutory minimum rebates a manufacturer must pay under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program; created a new Medicare Part D coverage gap discount program; established a new Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute to oversee, identify priorities in and conduct comparative clinical effectiveness research, along with funding for such research; and established a Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation at CMS to test innovative payment and service delivery models to lower Medicare and Medicaid spending.

Since its enactment, there have been judicial and Congressional challenges to certain aspects of the ACA. On June 17, 2021, the U.S. Supreme Court dismissed the most recent judicial challenge to the ACA brought by several states without specifically ruling on the constitutionality of the ACA. Prior to the Supreme Court’s decision, President Biden issued an executive order to initiate a special enrollment period from February 15, 2021 through August 15, 2021 for purposes of obtaining health insurance coverage through the ACA marketplace. The executive order also instructed certain governmental agencies to review and reconsider their existing policies and rules that limit access to healthcare, including among others, reexamining Medicaid demonstration projects and waiver programs that include work requirements, and policies that create unnecessary barriers to obtaining access to health insurance coverage through Medicaid or the ACA. It is unclear how the healthcare reform measures of the Biden administration and other efforts, if any, to repeal and replace the ACA will impact the ACA or our business.

In addition, other legislative changes have been proposed and adopted since the Affordable Care Act was enacted. Most recently, in March 2021, Congress enacted the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which, among other things, eliminated the statutory cap on drug manufacturers’ Medicaid Drug Rebate Program rebate liability, effective January 1, 2024. Under current law enacted as part of the ACA, drug manufacturers’ Medicaid Drug Rebate Program rebate liability is capped at 100% of the average manufacturer price for a covered outpatient drug. On August 2, 2011, the Budget Control Act of 2011 was signed into law, which, among other things, resulted in reductions to Medicare payments to providers of 2% per fiscal year, which went into effect on April 1, 2013 and, due to subsequent legislative amendments to the statute, will remain in effect into 2031, with the exception of a temporary suspension from May 1, 2020 through December 31, 2021, unless additional Congressional action is taken. On January 2, 2013, the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 was signed into law, which, among other things, reduced Medicare payments to several providers, including hospitals, and increased the statute of limitations period for the government to recover overpayments to providers from three to five years.

Further, there has been heightened governmental scrutiny in the United States of pharmaceutical pricing practices in light of the rising cost of prescription drugs. Such scrutiny has resulted in several recent congressional inquiries and proposed and enacted federal and state legislation designed to, among other things, bring more transparency to product pricing, review the relationship between pricing and manufacturer patient programs, and reform government program reimbursement methodologies for products. Although a number of these and other measures may require additional authorization to become effective, Congress and the current U.S. administration have each indicated that it will continue to seek new legislative and/or administrative measures to control drug costs.

At the state level, legislatures have increasingly passed legislation and implemented regulations designed to control pharmaceutical and biological product pricing, including price or patient reimbursement constraints, discounts, restrictions on certain product access and marketing cost disclosure and transparency measures, and, in some cases, designed to encourage importation from other countries and bulk purchasing. Legally mandated price controls on payment amounts by third-party payors or other restrictions could harm our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects. In addition, regional healthcare authorities and individual hospitals are increasingly using bidding procedures to determine what pharmaceutical products and which suppliers will be included in their prescription drug and other healthcare programs. This could reduce the ultimate demand for our product candidates, if approved, or put pressure on our product pricing, which could negatively affect our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects.

 

45


Table of Contents

We expect that the ACA, these new laws and other healthcare reform measures that may be adopted in the future may result in additional reductions in Medicare and other healthcare funding, more rigorous coverage criteria, new payment methodologies and additional downward pressure on the price that we receive for any approved product. Any reduction in reimbursement from Medicare and other government programs may result in a similar reduction in payments from private payors. The implementation of cost containment measures or other healthcare reforms may prevent us from being able to generate revenue, attain profitability or commercialize our product candidates, if approved.

We and any of our third-party manufacturers or suppliers may use potent chemical agents and hazardous materials, and any claims relating to improper handling, storage or disposal of these materials could be time consuming or costly.

We and any of our third-party suppliers and potential future collaborators will use biological materials, potent chemical agents and may use hazardous materials, including chemicals and biological agents and compounds that could be dangerous to human health and safety of the environment. Our operations and the operations of our third-party manufacturers and suppliers also produce hazardous waste products. Federal, state and local laws and regulations govern the use, generation, manufacture, storage, handling and disposal of these materials and wastes. Compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations may be expensive, and current or future environmental laws and regulations may impair our product development efforts. In addition, we cannot eliminate the risk of accidental injury or contamination from these materials or wastes. We do not carry specific biological or hazardous waste insurance coverage, and our property, casualty and general liability insurance policies specifically exclude coverage for damages and fines arising from biological or hazardous waste exposure or contamination. In the event of contamination or injury, we could be held liable for damages or be penalized with fines in an amount exceeding our resources, and our clinical trials or marketing approvals could be suspended.

Although we maintain workers’ compensation insurance for certain costs and expenses we may incur due to injuries to our employees resulting from the use of hazardous materials or other work-related injuries, this insurance may not provide adequate coverage against potential liabilities. We do not maintain insurance for toxic tort claims that may be asserted against us in connection with our storage or disposal of biologic, hazardous or radioactive materials.

In addition, we may incur substantial costs in order to comply with current or future environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, which have tended to become more stringent over time. These current or future laws and regulations may impair our research, development or production efforts. Failure to comply with these laws and regulations also may result in substantial fines, penalties or other sanctions or liabilities, which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

If product liability lawsuits are brought against us, we may incur substantial liabilities and may be required to limit commercialization of our products.

We face an inherent risk of product liability as a result of the clinical trials of our product candidates and will face an even greater risk if we commercialize our product candidates. For example, we may be sued if our product candidates allegedly cause injury or are found to be otherwise unsuitable during product testing, manufacturing, marketing or sale. Any such product liability claims may include allegations of defects in manufacturing, defects in design, a failure to warn of dangers inherent in the product candidate, negligence, strict liability and a breach of warranties. Claims may be brought against us by clinical trial participants, patients or others using, administering or selling products that may be approved in the future. Claims could also be asserted under state consumer protection acts.

If we cannot successfully defend ourselves against product liability claims, we may incur substantial liabilities or be required to limit or cease the commercialization of our products. Even a successful defense would

 

46


Table of Contents

require significant financial and management resources. Regardless of the merits or eventual outcome, liability claims may result in:

 

   

decreased demand for our products, if approved;

 

   

injury to our reputation and significant negative media attention;

 

   

withdrawal of clinical trial participants;

 

   

costs to defend the related litigation;

 

   

a diversion of our management’s time and our resources;

 

   

substantial monetary awards to trial participants or patients;

 

   

product recalls, withdrawals or labeling, marketing or promotional restrictions;

 

   

significant negative financial impact;

 

   

the inability to commercialize our product candidates; and

 

   

a decline in our stock price.

We currently do not hold product liability insurance coverage, but will need to obtain this insurance coverage prior to commencing clinical trials of our product candidates. We may need to increase our insurance coverage as we initiate additional clinical trials or if we commence commercialization of our product candidates, if ever. Insurance coverage is increasingly expensive. Our inability to obtain and retain sufficient product liability insurance at an acceptable cost to protect against potential product liability claims could prevent or inhibit the commercialization of our product candidates. Although we expect to obtain and maintain such insurance, any claim that may be brought against us could result in a court judgment or settlement in an amount that is not covered, in whole or in part, by our insurance or that is in excess of the limits of our insurance coverage. Our insurance policies will also have various exclusions, and we may be subject to a product liability claim for which we have no coverage. We may have to pay any amounts awarded by a court or negotiated in a settlement that exceed our coverage limitations or that are not covered by our insurance, and we may not have, or be able to obtain, sufficient capital to pay such amounts.

Our insurance policies are expensive and only protect us from some business risks, which will leave us exposed to significant uninsured liabilities.

We do not carry insurance for all categories of risk that our business may encounter, including product liability insurance. Some of the policies we currently maintain include property, general liability, employment benefits liability, business automobile workers’ compensation, directors’ and officers’, employment practices and fiduciary liability insurance. We do not know, however, if we will be able to maintain insurance with adequate levels of coverage. Any significant uninsured liability may require us to pay substantial amounts, which would adversely affect our financial position and results of operations.

We and any of our potential future collaborators will be required to report to regulatory authorities if any of our product candidates or approved products in clinical trials cause or contribute to certain adverse medical events, and any failure to do so would result in sanctions that would materially harm our business.

The FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities would require that we and potential future collaborators report certain information about adverse medical events relating to any product that is approved or

 

47


Table of Contents

product candidate in clinical trials. The timing of our obligation to report would be triggered by the date we become aware of the adverse event as well as the nature of the event. We and any of our potential future collaborators or CROs may fail to report adverse events within the prescribed timeframe. If we or any of our potential future collaborators or CROs fail to comply with such reporting obligations, the FDA or a comparable foreign regulatory authority could take action, including criminal prosecution, the imposition of civil monetary penalties, seizure of our products or delay in approval or clearance of future products.

Our internal computer systems, or those of any of our CROs, other contractors or consultants or potential future collaborators, may fail or suffer security breaches, which could result in a material disruption of our product development programs, harm our reputation, significant fines, penalties and liability and loss of customers or sales.

The United States federal and various state and foreign governments have adopted or proposed requirements regarding the collection, distribution, use, security, and storage of personally identifiable information and other data relating to individuals, and federal and state consumer protection laws are being applied to enforce regulations related to the collection, use, and dissemination of such data. In the ordinary course of business, we collect, store, transmit and otherwise process large amounts of data including, without limitation, proprietary business information and personal information. Despite the implementation of security measures, our internal technology systems (including infrastructure) and those of our current and any future CROs and other contractors, consultants and collaborators are vulnerable to damage from computer viruses, cybersecurity threats (such as denial-of-service attacks, cyber-attacks or cyber-intrusions over the Internet, hacking, phishing and other social engineering attacks), unauthorized access or use, natural disasters, terrorism, war and telecommunication and electrical failures. Our systems are also subject to compromise from internal threats, such as theft, misuse, unauthorized access or other improper or accidental actions by employees, vendors and other third parties with otherwise legitimate access to our systems. Third parties may also attempt to fraudulently induce our employees and contractors into disclosing sensitive information such as usernames, passwords or other information, or otherwise compromise the security of our electronic systems, networks, and/ or physical facilities in order to gain access to our data.

Given the unpredictability of the timing, nature and scope of information technology disruptions, there can be no assurance that any security procedures and controls that we or our third-party partners and service providers have implemented will be sufficient to prevent cyber-attacks from occurring. The latency of a compromise is often measured in months, but could be years, and we may not be able to detect a compromise in a timely manner. New techniques may not be identified until they are launched against a target, and we may be unable to anticipate these techniques or detect an incident, assess its severity or impact, react or appropriately respond in a timely manner or implement adequate preventative measures, resulting in potential data loss or other damage to our information technology systems.

If a security breach were to occur and cause interruptions in our operations or result in the unauthorized disclosure of or access to personally identifiable information or individually identifiable health information (violating certain privacy laws such as GDPR), it could result in a material disruption of our development programs and our business operations, whether due to a loss of our trade secrets or other similar disruptions. Some of the federal, state and foreign government requirements include obligations of companies to notify individuals of security breaches involving particular personally identifiable information, which could result from breaches experienced by us or by our vendors, contractors, or organizations with which we have formed strategic relationships. Also, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all of our employees are working remotely. As a result, we may have increased cyber security and data security risks, due to increased use of home wi-fi networks and virtual private networks, as well as increased disbursement of physical machines. While we implement IT controls to reduce the risk of a cyber security or data security breach, there is no guarantee that these measures will be adequate to safeguard all systems, especially with an increased number of employees working remotely.

Any security breach or other incident, whether real or perceived, could impact our reputation, impact the integrity of our data, cause us to incur significant costs, including legal expenses, harm customer confidence, hurt

 

48


Table of Contents

our expansion into new markets, cause us to incur remediation costs, or cause us to lose existing customers. For example, the loss of clinical trial data from clinical trials could result in delays in our marketing approval efforts and significantly increase our costs to recover or reproduce the data. We also rely on third parties to manufacture our product candidates, and similar events relating to their computer systems could also have a material adverse effect on our business. To the extent that any real or perceived disruption or security breach affects our systems (or those of our third-party collaborators, service providers, contractors or consultants) or were to result in a loss of or accidental, unlawful or unauthorized access to, use of, release of, or other processing of personally identifiable information, or damage to, our data or applications, or inappropriate disclosure of confidential or proprietary information, we could incur liability, the further development and commercialization of our product candidates could be delayed, and we could be subject to significant fines, penalties or liabilities for any noncompliance to certain privacy and security laws.

Our business is subject to risks arising from COVID-19 and other epidemic diseases.

The COVID-19 worldwide pandemic has presented substantial public health and economic challenges and is affecting our employees, patients, physicians and other healthcare providers, communities and business operations, as well as the U.S. and global economies and financial markets. A pandemic, including COVID-19, or other public health epidemic, poses the risk that we or our employees, contractors, including our CROs, suppliers, collaborators and other partners may be prevented from conducting business activities for an indefinite period of time, including due to spread of the disease within these groups or due to shutdowns that may be requested or mandated by governmental authorities. International and U.S. governmental authorities in impacted regions are taking actions in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, including issuing varying forms of “stay-at-home” orders, and restricting business functions outside of one’s home. In response, we have closed our executive offices with our administrative employees continuing their work remotely and limited the number of staff in our research and development laboratories. To date we have not experienced material disruptions in our business operations. However, while it is not possible at this time to estimate the impact that COVID-19 could have on our business in the future, particularly as we advance our product candidates to clinical development, the continued spread of COVID-19 and the measures taken by the governmental authorities, and any future epidemic disease outbreaks, could: disrupt the supply chain and the manufacture or shipment of drug substances and finished drug products for our product candidates for use in our research, preclinical studies and clinical trials, delay, limit or prevent our employees and CROs from continuing research and development activities; impede our clinical trial initiation and recruitment and the ability of patients to continue in clinical trials, including the risk that participants enrolled in our clinical trials will contract COVID-19 or other epidemic disease while the clinical trial is ongoing, which could impact the results of the clinical trial, including by increasing the number of observed adverse events; and impede testing, monitoring, data collection and analysis and other related activities, any of which could delay our preclinical studies and clinical trials and increase our development costs, and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The COVID-19 pandemic and any future epidemic disease could also potentially affect the business of the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities, which could result in delays in meetings related to planned clinical trials. The COVID-19 pandemic and mitigation measures have had and may continue to have, and any future epidemic disease outbreak may have, an adverse impact on global economic conditions which could have an adverse effect on our business and financial condition, including impairing our ability to raise capital when needed. The extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic impacts our results will depend on future developments that are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including new information that may emerge concerning the severity of the virus and the actions to contain its impact.

Our business could be affected by litigation, government investigations and enforcement actions.

We operate in a highly regulated industry and we could be subject to litigation, government investigation and enforcement actions on a variety of matters in the United States or foreign jurisdictions, including, without limitation, intellectual property, regulatory, product liability, environmental, whistleblower, false claims, privacy, anti-kickback, anti-bribery, securities, commercial, employment and other claims and legal

 

49


Table of Contents

proceedings which may arise from conducting our business. Any determination that our operations or activities are not in compliance with existing laws or regulations could result in the imposition of fines, civil and criminal penalties, product seizure, equitable remedies, including disgorgement, injunctive relief and/or other sanctions against us, and remediation of any such findings could have an adverse effect on our business operations.

Legal proceedings, government investigations and enforcement actions can be expensive and time consuming. An adverse outcome resulting from any such proceeding, investigations or enforcement actions could result in significant damages awards, fines, penalties, exclusion from the federal healthcare programs, healthcare or regulatory debarment, injunctive relief, product recalls, reputational damage and modifications of our business practices, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

Our employees and independent contractors, including principal investigators, CROs, consultants and vendors, may engage in misconduct or other improper activities, including noncompliance with regulatory standards and requirements.

We are exposed to the risk that our employees and independent contractors, including principal investigators, CROs, consultants and vendors may engage in misconduct or other illegal activity. Misconduct by these parties could include intentional, reckless and/or negligent conduct or disclosure of unauthorized activities to us that violate: (i) the laws and regulations of the FDA and other similar regulatory requirements, including those laws that require the recording and reporting of true, complete and accurate information to such authorities, (ii) manufacturing standards, including cGMP requirements, (iii) federal and state data privacy, security, fraud and abuse and other healthcare laws and regulations in the United States and abroad or (iv) laws that require the true, complete and accurate reporting of financial information or data. Activities subject to these laws also involve the improper use or misrepresentation of information obtained in the course of clinical trials, the creation of fraudulent data in our preclinical studies or clinical trials or illegal misappropriation of drug product, which could result in regulatory consequences or sanctions and cause serious harm to our reputation. It is not always possible to identify and deter misconduct by employees and other third parties, and the precautions we take to detect and prevent this activity may not be effective in controlling unknown or unmanaged risks or losses or in protecting us from governmental investigations or other actions or lawsuits stemming from a failure to be in compliance with such laws or regulations. In addition, we are subject to the risk that a person or government could allege such fraud or other misconduct, even if none occurred. If any such actions are instituted against us, and we are not successful in defending ourselves or asserting our rights, those actions could have a significant impact on our business and financial results, including, without limitation, the imposition of significant civil, criminal and administrative penalties, damages, monetary fines, disgorgements, possible exclusion from participation in Medicare, Medicaid and other federal healthcare programs, imprisonment, contractual damages, reputational harm, diminished profits and future earnings, additional reporting requirements and oversight if we become subject to a corporate integrity agreement or similar agreement to resolve allegations of non-compliance with these laws and curtailment of our operations, any of which could adversely affect our ability to operate our business and our results of operations.

We may engage in strategic transactions that could impact our liquidity, increase our expenses and present significant distractions to our management.

From time to time, we may consider strategic transactions, such as acquisitions of companies, asset purchases and out-licensing or in-licensing of intellectual property, products or technologies. Additional potential transactions that we may consider in the future include a variety of business arrangements, including spin-offs, strategic partnerships, joint ventures, restructurings, divestitures, business combinations and investments. Any future transactions could increase our near and long-term expenditures, result in potentially dilutive issuances of our equity securities, including our common stock, or the incurrence of debt, contingent liabilities, amortization expenses or acquired in-process research and development expenses, any of which could affect our financial condition, liquidity and results of operations. Future acquisitions may also require us to obtain additional financing, which may not be available on favorable terms or at all. These transactions may never be successful

 

50


Table of Contents

and may require significant time and attention of our management. In addition, the integration of any business that we may acquire in the future may disrupt our existing business and may be a complex, risky and costly endeavor for which we may never realize the full benefits of the acquisition. Accordingly, although there can be no assurance that we will undertake or successfully complete any additional transactions of the nature described above, any additional transactions that we do complete could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and prospects.

Unstable market and economic conditions may have serious adverse consequences on our business, financial condition and stock price.

The global credit and financial markets have recently experienced extreme volatility and disruptions, including severely diminished liquidity and credit availability, declines in consumer confidence, declines in economic growth, increases in unemployment rates and uncertainty about economic stability. There can be no assurance that further deterioration in credit and financial markets and confidence in economic conditions will not occur. Our general business strategy may be adversely affected by any such economic downturn, volatile business environment or continued unpredictable and unstable market conditions. If the current equity and credit markets deteriorate, it may make any necessary debt or equity financing more difficult, more costly and more dilutive. Failure to secure any necessary financing in a timely manner and on favorable terms could have a material adverse effect on our growth strategy, financial performance and stock price and could require us to delay or abandon clinical development plans. In addition, there is a risk that one or more of our current service providers, manufacturers and other partners may not survive an economic downturn, which could directly affect our ability to attain our operating goals on schedule and on budget.

Changes in U.S. tax law may materially adversely affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

On March 27, 2020, the CARES Act was signed into law to address the COVID-19 crisis. The CARES Act is an approximately $2 trillion emergency economic stimulus package that includes numerous U.S. federal income tax provisions, including the modification of: (i) net operating loss, or NOL, rules (as discussed below), (ii) the alternative minimum tax refund and (iii) business interest deduction limitations under Section 163(j) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code.

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, or the Tax Act, also significantly changed the U.S. federal income taxation of U.S. corporations. We continue to work with our tax advisors and auditors to determine the full impact the Tax Act and the CARES Act will have on us. We urge our investors to consult with their legal and tax advisors with respect to both the Tax Act and the CARES Act and the potential tax consequences of investing in our common stock.

Our ability to use net operating loss carryforwards and other tax attributes may be limited in connection with this offering or other ownership changes.

We have incurred substantial losses during our history, do not expect to become profitable in the near future and may never achieve profitability. To the extent that we continue to generate taxable losses, unused losses will carry forward to offset future taxable income, if any, until such unused losses expire (if at all). At December 31, 2020, we had federal and state NOL carryforwards of approximately $11.7 million and $3.7 million, respectively.

Under the Tax Act, federal NOL carryforwards generated in periods after December 31, 2017, may be carried forward indefinitely. Under the CARES Act, NOL carryforwards arising in tax years beginning after December 31, 2017 and before January 1, 2021 may be carried back to each of the five tax years preceding the tax year of such loss. Because we had no taxable income in our tax year ended December 31, 2020, which was our third corporate tax year, we do not anticipate that such provision of the CARES Act will be relevant to us. The ability to use federal NOL carryforwards to offset taxable income, particularly for tax years beginning after December 31, 2020, may be limited. It is uncertain if and to what extent various states will conform to the Tax Act or the CARES Act.

 

51


Table of Contents

In addition, our NOL carryforwards are subject to review and possible adjustment by the IRS, and state tax authorities. Under Section 382 of the Code, our federal NOL carryforwards may become subject to an annual limitation in the event of certain cumulative changes in the ownership of our company. An “ownership change” pursuant to Section 382 of the Code generally occurs if one or more stockholders or groups of stockholders who own at least 5% of a company’s stock increase their ownership by more than 50 percentage points over their lowest ownership percentage within a rolling three-year period. Our ability to utilize our NOL carryforwards and other tax attributes to offset future taxable income or tax liabilities may be limited as a result of ownership changes, including potential changes in connection with this offering. Similar rules may apply under state tax laws. We have not yet determined the amount of the cumulative change in our ownership resulting from this offering or other transactions, or any resulting limitations on our ability to utilize our NOL carryforwards and other tax attributes. If we earn taxable income, such limitations could result in increased future income tax liability to us and our future cash flows could be adversely affected. We have recorded a full valuation allowance related to our NOL carryforwards and other deferred tax assets due to the uncertainty of the ultimate realization of the future benefits of those assets.

Risks Related to Our Intellectual Property

If we are unable to obtain and maintain patent protection for our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we develop, or if the scope of the patent protection obtained is not sufficiently broad, our competitors could develop and commercialize products and technology similar or identical to ours, and our ability to successfully commercialize our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop may be adversely affected.

Our success depends in large part on our ability to obtain and maintain patent protection in the United States and other countries with respect to our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop as well as our ability to operate without infringing upon the proprietary rights of others. We seek to protect our proprietary position, in part, by filing patent applications in the United States and abroad relating to our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop. If we are unable to obtain or maintain patent protection with respect to our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop, our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects could be materially harmed.

Changes in either the patent laws or their interpretation in the United States and other countries may diminish our ability to protect our inventions, obtain, maintain and enforce our intellectual property rights and, more generally, could affect the value of our intellectual property or narrow the scope of our protection. We cannot predict whether the patent applications we are currently pursuing will issue as patents in any particular jurisdiction or whether the claims of any issued patents will provide sufficient protection against competitors or other third parties.

The patent prosecution process is expensive, time-consuming, and complex, and we may not be able to file, prosecute, maintain, enforce, or license all necessary or desirable patent applications at a reasonable cost or in a timely manner. It is also possible that we will fail to identify patentable aspects of our research and development output in time to obtain patent protection. Although we enter into non-disclosure and confidentiality agreements with parties who have access to confidential or patentable aspects of our research and development output, such as our employees, CROs, consultants, advisors and other third parties, any of these parties may breach the agreements and disclose such output before a patent application is filed, thereby jeopardizing our ability to seek patent protection. In addition, our ability to obtain and maintain valid and enforceable patents depends on whether the differences between our inventions and the prior art allow our inventions to be patentable over the prior art. Furthermore, publications of discoveries in the scientific literature often lag behind the actual discoveries, and patent applications in the United States and other jurisdictions are typically not published until 18 months after filing, or in some cases not at all. Therefore, we cannot be certain that we were the first to make the inventions claimed in any of our pending patent applications, or that we were the first to file for patent protection of such inventions.

 

52


Table of Contents

The patent position of biopharmaceutical and biotechnology companies generally is highly uncertain, involves complex legal and factual questions and has been the subject of much litigation in recent years. As a result, the issuance, scope, validity, enforceability and commercial value of our patent rights are highly uncertain. Our patent applications may not result in patents being issued which protect our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop or which effectively prevent others from commercializing competitive technologies and products.

Moreover, the claim coverage in a patent application can be significantly reduced before the patent is granted. Even if our patent applications issue as patents, they may not issue in a form that will provide us with any meaningful protection, prevent competitors or other third parties from competing with us or otherwise provide us with any competitive advantage. Any patents issuing from our patent applications may be challenged, narrowed, circumvented or invalidated by third parties. Consequently, we do not know whether our product candidates and other proprietary technology will be protectable or remain protected by valid and enforceable patents. Even if a patent is granted, our competitors or other third parties may be able to circumvent the patent by developing similar or alternative technologies or products in a non-infringing manner which could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects. In addition, given the amount of time required for the development, testing and regulatory review of our product candidates, patents protecting the product candidates might expire before or shortly after such product candidates are commercialized. As a result, our intellectual property may not provide us with sufficient rights to exclude others from commercializing products similar or identical to ours.

The issuance of a patent is not conclusive as to its inventorship, scope, validity, or enforceability and our patents may be challenged in the courts or patent offices in the United States and abroad. We may be subject to a third-party pre-issuance submission of prior art to the United States Patent and Trademark Office, or USPTO, or become involved in opposition, derivation, revocation, reexamination, post- grant and inter partes review, or other similar proceedings challenging our patent rights. An adverse determination in any such submission, proceeding or litigation could reduce the scope of, or invalidate or render unenforceable, our patent rights, allow third parties to commercialize our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop and compete directly with us, without payment to us, or result in our inability to manufacture or commercialize products without infringing third-party patent rights. Such proceedings also may result in substantial cost and require significant time from our scientists and management, even if the eventual outcome is favorable to us.

We do not own or license any issued patents and substantive examination has not begun on any of our pending patent applications, which makes it is difficult to forecast the extent of any future patent rights.

We cannot be certain that the claims in our U.S. pending patent applications or corresponding international patent applications, or future patent applications in certain foreign territories, will be considered patentable by the USPTO. Patent claims are subject to revision during prosecution and pending patent applications cannot be enforced against third parties practicing the technology claimed in such applications unless, and until, patents issue from such applications, which will likely be several years from now, and then only to the extent the issued claims cover the third party’s technology. There can be no assurance that our patent applications will result in patents being issued or that issued patents will afford sufficient protection against competitors with similar technology. At present, we have only filed U.S. provisional patent applications and international patent applications under the Patent Cooperation Treaty, or the PCT. None of our patent applications have entered substantive examination by a patent office, which makes it impossible at this time to gauge which art will be cited by examiners or the extent of any rejections we may receive. For example, examiners at a patent office may uncover prior art of which we were not previously aware, and if this cited prior art encompasses our claimed inventions, it may restrict patentability or prevent allowance of any pending patent claims. Furthermore, the patent prosecution process is expensive, time-consuming, and often a multi-year process. We and any future licensors may not be able to file and prosecute all necessary or desirable patent applications at a reasonable cost or in a timely manner or in all jurisdictions where protection may be

 

53


Table of Contents

commercially advantageous. Therefore, we cannot be certain that we will own any issued patents or develop a patent portfolio, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects.

We may not be able to protect our intellectual property and proprietary rights throughout the world.

Filing, prosecuting and defending patents on our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop in all countries throughout the world would be prohibitively expensive, and the laws of foreign countries may not protect our rights to the same extent as the laws of the United States. Consequently, we may not be able to prevent third parties from practicing our inventions in all countries outside the United States, or from selling or importing products made using our inventions in and into the United States or other jurisdictions. Competitors may use our technologies in jurisdictions where we have not obtained patent protection to develop their own products and, further, may export otherwise infringing products to territories where we have patent protection but enforcement is not as strong as that in the United States. These products may compete with our product candidates, and our patents or other intellectual property rights may not be effective or sufficient to prevent them from competing.

Many companies have encountered significant problems in protecting and defending intellectual property rights in foreign jurisdictions. The legal systems of certain countries, particularly certain developing countries, do not favor the enforcement of patents, trade secrets and other intellectual property protection, particularly those relating to biotechnology and pharmaceutical products, which could make it difficult for us to stop the infringement of our patents or marketing of competing products in violation of our intellectual property and proprietary rights generally. In India, unlike the United States, there is no link between regulatory approval for a drug and its patent status. In addition, some jurisdictions, such as Europe, Japan and China, may have a higher standard for patentability than in the United States, including, for example, the requirement of claims having literal support in the original patent filing and the limitation on using supporting data that is not in the original patent filing. Under those heightened patentability requirements, we may not be able to obtain sufficient patent protection in certain jurisdictions even though the same or similar patent protection can be secured in U.S. and other jurisdictions.

Proceedings to enforce our intellectual property and proprietary rights in foreign jurisdictions could result in substantial costs and divert our efforts and attention from other aspects of our business, could put our patents at risk of being invalidated or interpreted narrowly, could put our patent applications at risk of not issuing and could provoke third parties to assert claims against us. We may not prevail in any lawsuits that we initiate, and the damages or other remedies awarded, if any, may not be commercially meaningful. Accordingly, our efforts to enforce our intellectual property and proprietary rights around the world may be inadequate to obtain a significant commercial advantage from the intellectual property that we develop.

Many countries have compulsory licensing laws under which a patent owner may be compelled to grant licenses to third parties. In addition, many countries limit the enforceability of patents against government agencies or government contractors. In these countries, the patent owner may have limited remedies, which could materially diminish the value of such patent. If we are forced to grant a license to third parties with respect to any patents relevant to our business, our competitive position may be impaired, and our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may be adversely affected.

Obtaining and maintaining our patent protection depends on compliance with various procedural, document submission, fee payment, and other requirements imposed by government patent agencies, and our patent protection could be reduced or eliminated for non-compliance with these requirements.

Periodic maintenance fees, renewal fees, annuity fees, and various other government fees on patents and applications will be due to be paid to the USPTO and various government patent agencies outside of the United States over the lifetime of our patents and applications. The USPTO and various non-U.S. government agencies

 

54


Table of Contents

require compliance with several procedural, documentary, fee payment and other similar provisions during the patent application process. In some cases, an inadvertent lapse can be cured by payment of a late fee or by other means in accordance with the applicable rules. There are situations, however, in which non-compliance can result in abandonment or lapse of the patent or patent application, resulting in a partial or complete loss of patent rights in the relevant jurisdiction. In such an event, potential competitors might be able to enter the market with similar or identical products or technology, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects.

Changes in U.S. patent law could diminish the value of patents in general, thereby impairing our ability to protect our products.

Changes in either the patent laws or interpretation of the patent laws in the United States could increase the uncertainties and costs surrounding the prosecution of patent applications and the enforcement or defense of issued patents. Since March 2013, under the Leahy-Smith America Invents Act, or the America Invents Act, enacted in September 2011, the United States transitioned to a first inventor to file system in which, assuming that other requirements for patentability are met, the first inventor to file a patent application will be entitled to the patent on an invention regardless of whether a third party was the first to invent the claimed invention. A third party that files a patent application in the USPTO after March 2013, but before us could therefore be awarded a patent covering an invention of ours even if we had made the invention before it was made by such third party. This will require us to be cognizant going forward of the time from invention to filing of a patent application. Since patent applications in the United States and most other countries are confidential for a period of time after filing or until issuance, we cannot be certain that we were the first to either (i) file any patent application related to our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop or (ii) invent any of the inventions claimed in our patent applications.

The America Invents Act also includes a number of significant changes that affect the way patent applications will be prosecuted and also may affect patent litigation. These include allowing third party submission of prior art to the USPTO during patent prosecution and additional procedures to attack the validity of a patent by USPTO administered post-grant proceedings, including post-grant review, inter partes review and derivation proceedings. Because of a lower evidentiary standard in USPTO proceedings compared to the evidentiary standard in United States federal courts necessary to invalidate a patent claim, a third party could potentially provide evidence in a USPTO proceeding sufficient for the USPTO to hold a claim invalid even though the same evidence would be insufficient to invalidate the claim if first presented in a district court action. Accordingly, a third party may attempt to use the USPTO procedures to invalidate our patent claims that would not have been invalidated if first challenged by the third party as a defendant in a district court action. Therefore, the America Invents Act and its implementation could increase the uncertainties and costs surrounding the prosecution of our patent applications and the enforcement or defense of patents issuing from those patent applications, all of which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

In addition, the patent positions of companies in the development and commercialization of biologics and pharmaceuticals are particularly uncertain. Recent U.S. Supreme Court rulings have narrowed the scope of patent protection available in certain circumstances and weakened the rights of patent owners in certain situations. For example, the scope of patentable subject matter under 35 U.S.C. 101 has evolved significantly over the past several years as the Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit and the Supreme Court issued various opinions, and the USPTO modified its guidance for practitioners on multiple occasions. This combination of events has created uncertainty with respect to the validity and enforceability of patents, once obtained. Depending on future actions by the U.S. Congress, the federal courts and the USPTO, the laws and regulations governing patents could change in unpredictable ways that could have a material adverse effect on our ability to protect and enforce our intellectual property in the future.

 

55


Table of Contents

Issued patents relating to our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop could be found invalid or unenforceable if challenged in court or before administrative bodies in the United States or abroad.

If we initiated legal proceedings against a third party to enforce a patent relating to our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop, the defendant could counterclaim that such patent is invalid or unenforceable. In patent litigation in the United States, defendant counterclaims alleging invalidity or unenforceability are commonplace. Grounds for a validity challenge could be an alleged failure to meet any of several statutory requirements, including lack of novelty, obviousness or non-enablement. Grounds for an unenforceability assertion could be an allegation that someone connected with prosecution of the patent withheld relevant information from the USPTO, or made a misleading statement, during prosecution. Third parties may raise claims challenging the validity or enforceability of a patent before administrative bodies in the United States or abroad, even outside the context of litigation. Such mechanisms include re-examination, post-grant review, inter partes review, derivation proceedings, and equivalent proceedings in foreign jurisdictions (e.g., opposition proceedings). Such proceedings could result in the revocation of, cancellation of or amendment to our patents in such a way that they no longer cover our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop. The outcome following legal assertions of invalidity and unenforceability is unpredictable. With respect to the validity question, for example, we cannot be certain that there is no invalidating prior art, of which we or our licensing partners and the patent examiner were unaware during prosecution. If a third party were to prevail on a legal assertion of invalidity or unenforceability, we would lose at least part, and perhaps all, of the patent protection on our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop. Such a loss of patent protection would have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

Patent terms may be inadequate to protect our competitive position on our product candidates for an adequate amount of time.

Patents have a limited lifespan. In the United States, if all maintenance fees are timely paid, the natural expiration of a patent is generally 20 years from its earliest U.S. non-provisional filing date. Various extensions may be available, but the life of a patent, and the protection it affords, is limited. Even if patents relating to our product candidates are obtained, once the patent life has expired, we may be open to competition from competitive products. Given the amount of time required for the development, testing and regulatory review of new product candidates, patents protecting such candidates might expire before or shortly after such candidates are commercialized. As a result, our patent portfolio may not provide us with sufficient rights to exclude others from commercializing products similar or identical to ours.

If we do not obtain patent term extension for our product candidates, our business may be materially harmed.

Depending upon the timing, duration and specifics of any FDA marketing approval of any product candidate we may develop, one or more of patents issuing from our U.S. patent applications may be eligible for limited patent term extension under the Drug Price Competition and Patent Term Restoration Action of 1984, or the Hatch-Waxman Amendments. The Hatch-Waxman Amendments permit a patent extension term, or PTE, of up to five years as compensation for patent term lost during the FDA regulatory review process. A patent term extension cannot extend the remaining term of a patent beyond a total of 14 years from the date of product approval, only one patent may be extended and only those claims covering the approved drug, a method for using it or a method for manufacturing it may be extended. Similar patent term restoration provisions to compensate for commercialization delay caused by regulatory review are also available in certain foreign jurisdictions, such as in Europe under Supplemental Protection Certificate, or SPC. If we encounter delays in our development efforts, including any clinical trials, the period of time during which we could market any future product candidates under patent protection would be reduced. Additionally, we may not receive an extension if we fail to apply within applicable deadlines, fail to apply prior to expiration of relevant patents, or otherwise fail to satisfy applicable requirements. Moreover, the applicable time period or the scope of patent protection afforded could be

 

56


Table of Contents

less than we request. If we are unable to obtain patent term extension or restoration, or the term of any such extension is less than we request, the period during which we will have the right to exclusively market our product will be shortened and our competitors may obtain approval of competing products following our patent expiration, and our revenue could be reduced.

We may be subject to claims challenging the inventorship of our patents and other intellectual property.

We may be subject to claims that former employees, collaborators or other third parties have an interest in our patent rights, trade secrets, or other intellectual property as an inventor or co-inventor. For example, we may have inventorship disputes arise from conflicting obligations of consultants or others who are involved in developing our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop. Litigation may be necessary to defend against these and other claims challenging inventorship or our patent rights, trade secrets or other intellectual property. If we fail in defending any such claims, in addition to paying monetary damages, we may lose valuable intellectual property rights, such as exclusive ownership of, or right to use, intellectual property that is important to our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop. Even if we are successful in defending against such claims, litigation could result in substantial costs and be a distraction to our management and other employees. Any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

If we are unable to protect the confidentiality of our trade secrets, our business and competitive position would be harmed.

In addition to seeking patent protection for our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop, we also rely on trade secrets and confidentiality agreements to protect our unpatented know-how, technology, and other proprietary information and to maintain our competitive position. With respect to our development programs, we consider trade secrets and know-how to be one of our important sources of intellectual property, including our extensive knowledge of crystallography structure-based drug design. Trade secrets and know-how can be difficult to protect. In particular, the trade secrets and know-how in connection with our development programs and other proprietary technology we may develop may over time be disseminated within the industry through independent development, the publication of journal articles describing the methodology and the movement of personnel with scientific positions in academic and industry.

We seek to protect these trade secrets and other proprietary technology, in part, by entering into non-disclosure and confidentiality agreements with parties who have access to them, such as our employees, CROs, consultants, advisors and other third parties. We also enter into confidentiality and invention or patent assignment agreements with our employees and consultants. We cannot guarantee that we have entered into such agreements with each party that may have or have had access to our trade secrets or proprietary technology and processes. Despite these efforts, any of these parties may breach the agreements and disclose our proprietary information, including our trade secrets, and we may not be able to obtain adequate remedies for such breaches. Enforcing a claim that a party illegally disclosed or misappropriated a trade secret is difficult, expensive and time-consuming, and the outcome is unpredictable. In addition, some courts inside and outside the United States are less willing or unwilling to protect trade secrets. If any of our trade secrets were to be lawfully obtained or independently developed by a competitor or other third party, we would have no right to prevent them from using that technology or information to compete with us. If any of our trade secrets were to be disclosed to or independently developed by a competitor or other third party, our competitive position would be materially and adversely harmed.

We may be subject to claims that third parties have an ownership interest in our trade secrets. For example, we may have disputes arise from conflicting obligations of our employees, consultants or others who are involved in developing our product candidate. Litigation may be necessary to defend against these and other claims challenging ownership of our trade secrets. If we fail in defending any such claims, in addition to paying monetary damages, we may lose valuable trade secret rights, such as exclusive ownership of, or right to use,

 

57


Table of Contents

trade secrets that are important to our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop. Even if we are successful in defending against such claims, litigation could result in substantial costs and be a distraction to our management and other employees.

We may need to share our proprietary information, including trade secrets, with our current and future business partners, collaborators, contractors and others located in countries at heightened risk of theft of trade secrets, including through direct intrusion by private parties or foreign actors, and those affiliated with or controlled by state actors. Any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

We may not be successful in obtaining necessary rights to any product candidate we may develop through acquisitions and in-licenses.

We currently solely own intellectual property rights covering our product candidates. Other pharmaceutical companies and academic institutions may also have filed or are planning to file patent applications potentially relevant to our business. In order to avoid infringing these third-party patents, we may find it necessary or prudent to obtain licenses to such patents from such third-party intellectual property holders. However, we may be unable to secure such licenses or otherwise acquire or in-license any compositions, methods of use, processes or other intellectual property rights from third parties that we identify as necessary for our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop. The licensing or acquisition of third-party intellectual property rights is a competitive area, and several more established companies may pursue strategies to license or acquire third party intellectual property rights that we may consider attractive or necessary. These established companies may have a competitive advantage over us due to their size, capital resources and greater clinical development and commercialization capabilities. In addition, companies that perceive us to be a competitor may be unwilling to assign or license rights to us. We also may be unable to license or acquire third party intellectual property rights on terms that would allow us to make an appropriate return on our investment or at all. If we are unable to successfully obtain rights to required third party intellectual property rights or maintain the existing intellectual property rights we have, we may have to abandon development of the relevant program or product candidate, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

We may be subject to claims that our employees, consultants or advisors have wrongfully used or disclosed alleged trade secrets of their current or former employers or claims asserting ownership of what we regard as our own intellectual property.

Some of our employees, consultants and advisors are currently or were previously employed at universities or other biopharmaceutical or biotechnology companies, including our competitors or potential competitors. Although we try to ensure that our employees, consultants and advisors do not use the proprietary information or know-how of others in their work for us, we may be subject to claims that we or these individuals have used or disclosed intellectual property, including trade secrets or other proprietary information, of any such individual’s current or former employer. Litigation may be necessary to defend against these claims. If we fail in defending any such claims, in addition to paying monetary damages, we may lose valuable intellectual property rights or personnel. Even if we are successful in defending against such claims, litigation could result in substantial costs and be a distraction to our management.

In addition, while it is our policy to require our employees and contractors who may be involved in the conception or development of intellectual property to execute agreements assigning such intellectual property to us, we may be unsuccessful in executing such an agreement with each party who, in fact, conceives or develops intellectual property that we regard as our own. The assignment of intellectual property rights may not be self-executing, or the assignment agreements may be breached, and we may be forced to bring claims against third parties, or defend claims that they may bring against us, to determine the ownership of what we regard as our intellectual property. Such claims could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

 

58


Table of Contents

Third-party claims of intellectual property infringement, misappropriation or other violations against us or our collaborators may prevent or delay the development and commercialization of our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop.

Our commercial success depends in part on our ability to avoid infringing, misappropriating and otherwise violating the patents and other intellectual property rights of third parties. There is a substantial amount of complex litigation involving patents and other intellectual property rights in the biopharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, as well as administrative proceedings for challenging patents, including derivation and reexamination proceedings before the USPTO or oppositions and other comparable proceedings in foreign jurisdictions. As discussed above, as a result of the America Invests Act, procedures including inter partes review and post-grant review have been implemented. The America Invents Act adds uncertainty to the possibility of challenge to our patents in the future.

Numerous U.S. and foreign issued patents and pending patent applications owned by third parties exist in the fields in which we are commercializing or plan to commercialize our product candidates and in which we are developing other proprietary technologies. As the biopharmaceutical and biotechnology industries expand and more patents are issued, the risk increases that our product candidates and commercializing activities may give rise to claims of infringement of the patent rights of others. We cannot assure you that our product candidates and other proprietary technologies we may develop will not infringe existing or future patents owned by third parties. We may not be aware of patents that have already been issued and that a third party, for example, a competitor in the fields in which we are developing our product candidates, might assert as infringed by us. It is also possible that patents owned by third parties of which we are aware, but which we do not believe we infringe or that we believe we have valid defenses to any claims of patent infringement, could be found to be infringed by us. It is not unusual that corresponding patents issued in different countries have different scopes of coverage, such that in one country a third-party patent does not pose a material risk, but in another country, the corresponding third-party patent may pose a material risk to our planned products. As such, we monitor third-party patents in the relevant pharmaceutical markets. In addition, because patent applications can take many years to issue and may be confidential for 18 months or more after filing, there may be currently pending patent applications that may later result in issued patents that we may infringe.

In the event that any third party claims that we infringe their patents or that we are otherwise employing their proprietary technology without authorization and initiates litigation against us, even if we believe such claims are without merit, a court of competent jurisdiction could hold that such patents are valid, enforceable and infringed by us. In this case, the holders of such patents may be able to block our ability to commercialize the infringing products or technologies unless we obtain a license under the applicable patents, or until such patents expire or are finally determined to be held invalid or unenforceable. Such a license may not be available on commercially reasonable terms or at all. Even if we are able to obtain a license, the license would likely obligate us to pay license fees or royalties or both, and the rights granted to us might be nonexclusive, which could result in our competitors gaining access to the same intellectual property. If we are unable to obtain a necessary license to a third-party patent on commercially reasonable terms, we may be unable to commercialize the infringing products or technologies or such commercialization efforts may be significantly delayed, which could in turn significantly harm our business.

If we collaborate with third parties in the development of technology in the future, our collaborators may not properly maintain or defend our intellectual property rights or may use our proprietary information in such a way as to invite litigation that could jeopardize or invalidate our intellectual property or proprietary information or expose us to litigation or potential liability. Further, collaborators may infringe the intellectual property rights of third parties, which may expose us to litigation and potential liability. In the future, we may agree to indemnify our commercial collaborators against certain intellectual property infringement claims brought by third parties.

Defense of infringement claims, regardless of their merit, would involve substantial litigation expense and would be a substantial diversion of management and other employee resources from our business, and may

 

59


Table of Contents

impact our reputation. In the event of a successful claim of infringement against us, we may be enjoined from further developing or commercializing the infringing products or technologies. In addition, we may have to pay substantial damages, including treble damages and attorneys’ fees for willful infringement, obtain one or more licenses from third parties, pay royalties and/or redesign our infringing products or technologies, which may be impossible or require substantial time and monetary expenditure. In that event, we would be unable to further develop and commercialize our product candidate or technologies, which could harm our business significantly. Further, we cannot predict whether any required license would be available at all or whether it would be available on commercially reasonable terms. In the event that we could not obtain a license, we may be unable to further develop our product candidate and commercialize our product, if approved, which could harm our business significantly. Even if we are able to obtain a license, the license would likely obligate us to pay license fees or royalties or both, and the rights granted to us might be nonexclusive, which could result in our competitors gaining access to the same intellectual property. Ultimately, we could be prevented from commercializing a product, or be forced to cease some aspect of our business operations, if, as a result of actual or threatened patent infringement claims, we are unable to enter into licenses on acceptable terms.

Engaging in litigation defending against third parties alleging infringement of patent and other intellectual property rights is very expensive, particularly for a company of our size, and time-consuming. Some of our competitors may be able to sustain the costs of litigation or administrative proceedings more effectively than we can because of greater financial resources. Patent litigation and other proceedings may also absorb significant management time. Uncertainties resulting from the initiation and continuation of patent litigation or other proceedings could impair our ability to compete in the marketplace. The occurrence of any of the foregoing could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

We may in the future pursue invalidity proceedings with respect to third-party patents. The outcome following legal assertions of invalidity is unpredictable. Even if resolved in our favor, these legal proceedings may cause us to incur significant expenses, and could distract our technical and management personnel from their normal responsibilities. In addition, there could be public announcements of the results of hearings, motions or other interim proceedings or developments and if securities analysts or investors perceive these results to be negative, it could have a substantial adverse effect on the price of our common stock. Such proceedings could substantially increase our operating losses and reduce the resources available for development activities or any future sales, marketing or distribution activities. We may not have sufficient financial or other resources to conduct such proceedings adequately. Some of these third parties may be able to sustain the costs of such proceedings more effectively than we can because of their greater financial resources. If we do not prevail in the patent proceedings the third parties may assert a claim of patent infringement directed at our product candidates.

We may become involved in lawsuits to protect or enforce our patents and other intellectual property rights, which could be expensive, time consuming and unsuccessful.

Third parties, such as a competitor, may infringe, misappropriate, or otherwise violate our future issued patents and other intellectual property rights. In a patent infringement proceeding, a court may decide that a patent owned by us is invalid or unenforceable or may refuse to stop the other party from using the invention at issue on the grounds that the patent does not cover the technology in question or that the other party’s use of our patented technology falls under the safe harbor to patent infringement under 35 U.S.C. §271(e)(1). In addition, our patent rights may become involved in inventorship, priority or validity disputes. To counter or defend against such claims can be expensive and time consuming. An adverse result in any litigation proceeding could put our patent rights at risk of being invalidated or interpreted narrowly. Furthermore, because of the substantial amount of discovery required in connection with intellectual property litigation, there is a risk that some of our confidential information could be compromised by disclosure during this type of litigation.

Even if resolved in our favor, litigation or other legal proceedings relating to intellectual property claims may cause us to incur significant expenses and could distract our personnel from their normal responsibilities. In addition, there could be public announcements of the results of hearings, motions or other interim proceedings or

 

60


Table of Contents

developments, and if securities analysts or investors perceive these results to be negative, it could have a substantial adverse effect on the price of our common stock. Such litigation or proceedings could substantially increase our operating losses and reduce the resources available for development activities or any future sales, marketing or distribution activities. We may not have sufficient financial or other resources to conduct such litigation or proceedings adequately. Some of our competitors may be able to sustain the costs of such litigation or proceedings more effectively than we can because of their greater financial resources and more mature and developed intellectual property portfolios. Uncertainties resulting from the initiation and continuation of patent litigation or other proceedings could have a material adverse effect on our ability to compete in the marketplace.

Our ability to enforce our patent rights depends on our ability to detect infringement. It may be difficult to detect infringers who do not advertise the components or methods that are used in connection with their products and services. Moreover, it may be difficult or impossible to obtain evidence of infringement in a competitor’s or potential competitor’s product or service. We may not prevail in any lawsuits that we initiate and the damages or other remedies awarded if we were to prevail may not be commercially meaningful.

Because of the expense and uncertainty of litigation, we may not be in a position to enforce our intellectual property rights against third parties.

Because of the expense and uncertainty of litigation, we may conclude that even if a third party is infringing any patents that may be issued as a result of our pending or future patent applications or other intellectual property rights, the risk-adjusted cost of bringing and enforcing such a claim or action may be too high or not in the best interest of our company or our stockholders. In addition, the uncertainties associated with litigation could compromise our ability to raise the funds necessary to continue any clinical trials, continue our internal research programs, in-license needed technology or other product candidates, or enter into development partnerships that would help us bring our product candidates to market. In such cases, we may decide that the more prudent course of action is to simply monitor the situation or initiate or seek some other non-litigious action or solution.

If our trademarks and trade names are not adequately protected, then we may not be able to build name recognition in our markets of interest and our business may be adversely affected.

Our registered or unregistered trademarks or trade names may be challenged, infringed, circumvented or declared generic or determined to be infringing on other marks. During trademark registration proceedings, we may receive rejections of our applications by the USPTO or in other foreign jurisdictions. Although we are given an opportunity to respond to those rejections, we may be unable to overcome such rejections. In addition, in the USPTO and in comparable agencies in many foreign jurisdictions, third parties are given an opportunity to oppose pending trademark applications and to seek to cancel registered trademarks. Opposition or cancellation proceedings may be filed against our trademarks, which may not survive such proceedings. Moreover, any name we have proposed to use with our product candidates in the United States must be approved by the FDA, regardless of whether we have registered it, or applied to register it, as a trademark. Similar requirements exist in Europe. The FDA typically conducts a review of proposed product names, including an evaluation of potential for confusion with other product names. If the FDA or an equivalent administrative body in a foreign jurisdiction objects to any of our proposed proprietary product names, we may be required to expend significant additional resources in an effort to identify a suitable substitute name that would qualify under applicable trademark laws, not infringe the existing rights of third parties and be acceptable to the FDA. Furthermore, in many countries, owning and maintaining a trademark registration may not provide an adequate defense against a subsequent infringement claim asserted by the owner of a senior trademark.

We may not be able to protect our rights to these trademarks and trade names, which we need to build name recognition among potential partners or customers in our markets of interest. At times, competitors or other third parties may adopt trade names or trademarks similar to ours, thereby impeding our ability to build brand identity and possibly leading to market confusion. In addition, there could be potential trade name or trademark

 

61


Table of Contents

infringement claims brought by owners of other registered trademarks or trademarks that incorporate variations of our registered or unregistered trademarks or trade names. Over the long term, if we are unable to establish name recognition based on our trademarks and trade names, then we may not be able to compete effectively and our business may be adversely affected. Our efforts to enforce or protect our proprietary rights related to trademarks, trade names, domain name or other intellectual property may be ineffective and could result in substantial costs and diversion of resources and could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects.

Intellectual property rights do not necessarily address all potential threats.

The degree of future protection afforded by our intellectual property rights is uncertain because intellectual property rights have limitations and may not adequately protect our business or permit us to maintain our competitive advantage. For example:

 

   

others may be able to make products that are similar to our product candidate or utilize similar technology but that are not covered by the claims of the patents that we may license or may own;

 

   

we might not have been the first to make the inventions covered by our current or future patent applications;

 

   

we might not have been the first to file patent applications covering our inventions;

 

   

others may independently develop similar or alternative technologies or duplicate any of our technologies without infringing our intellectual property rights;

 

   

it is possible that our current or future patent applications will not lead to issued patents;

 

   

any patent issuing from our current or future patent applications may be held invalid or unenforceable, including as a result of legal challenges by our competitors or other third parties;

 

   

our competitors or other third parties might conduct research and development activities in countries where we do not have patent rights and then use the information learned from such activities to develop competitive products for sale in our major commercial markets;

 

   

we may not develop additional proprietary technologies that are patentable;

 

   

the patents of others may harm our business; and

 

   

we may choose not to file for patent protection in order to maintain certain trade secrets or know-how, and a third party may subsequently file a patent application covering such intellectual property.

We may not be successful in obtaining or maintaining necessary rights to product components and processes for our development pipeline through acquisitions and in-licenses.

The growth of our business may depend in part on our ability to acquire, in-license or use third-party proprietary component and process rights. For example, our product candidates may require specific formulations to work effectively and efficiently, we may develop product candidates containing our compounds and pre-existing pharmaceutical compounds, or we may be required by the FDA or comparable foreign regulatory authorities to provide a companion diagnostic test or tests with our product candidates, any of which could require us to obtain rights to use intellectual property held by third parties. We plan to work with diagnostic companies to use liquid biopsy companion diagnostic tests to aid in identifying appropriate patients

 

62


Table of Contents

for the initial clinical trial. In addition, with respect to any patents we may co-own with third parties, we may require licenses to such co-owners interest to such patents. We may be unable to acquire or in-license any compositions, methods of use, processes or other third-party intellectual property rights from third parties that we identify as necessary or important to our business operations. In addition, we may fail to obtain any of these licenses at a reasonable cost or on reasonable terms, if at all. Were that to happen, we may need to cease use of the compositions or methods covered by those third-party intellectual property rights, and may need to seek to develop alternative approaches that do not infringe on those intellectual property rights, which may entail additional costs and development delays, even if we were able to develop such alternatives, which may not be feasible. Even if we are able to obtain a license, it may be non-exclusive, which means that our competitors may also receive access to the same technologies licensed to us. In that event, we may be required to expend significant time and resources to develop or license replacement technology.

Additionally, we might sometimes collaborate with academic institutions to accelerate our preclinical research or development under written agreements with these institutions. In certain cases, these institutions provide us with an option to negotiate a license to any of the institution’s rights in technology resulting from the collaboration. Even if we hold such an option, we may be unable to negotiate a license from the institution within the specified timeframe or under terms that are acceptable to us. If we are unable to do so, the institution may offer the intellectual property rights to others, potentially blocking our ability to pursue our program.

The licensing and acquisition of third-party intellectual property rights is a competitive area, and companies that may be more established or have greater resources than we do may also be pursuing strategies to license or acquire third-party intellectual property rights that we may consider necessary or attractive in order to commercialize our product candidates. More established companies may have a competitive advantage over us due to their size, cash resources and greater clinical development and commercialization capabilities. In addition, companies that perceive us to be a competitor may be unwilling to assign or license rights to us. There can be no assurance that we will be able to successfully complete these types of negotiations and ultimately acquire the rights to the intellectual property surrounding the additional product candidates that we may seek to develop or market. If we are unable to successfully obtain rights to required third-party intellectual property or to maintain the existing intellectual property rights we have, we may have to abandon development of certain programs and our business financial condition, results of operations and prospects could suffer.

We, our collaborators and our service providers may be subject to a variety of privacy and data security laws and contractual obligations, which could increase compliance costs and our failure to comply with them could subject us to potentially significant fines or penalties and otherwise harm our business.

We may maintain a large quantity of sensitive information, including confidential business and patient health information in connection with our preclinical studies, and are subject to laws and regulations governing the privacy and security of such information. The global data protection landscape is rapidly evolving, and we may be affected by or subject to new, amended or existing laws and regulations in the future, including as our operations continue to expand or if we operate in foreign jurisdictions. These laws and regulations may be subject to differing interpretations, which adds to the complexity of processing personal data. Guidance on implementation and compliance practices are often updated or otherwise revised.

In the United States, there are numerous federal and state privacy and data security laws and regulations governing the collection, use, disclosure and protection of personal information, including federal and state health information privacy laws, federal and state security breach notification laws and federal and state consumer protection laws. Each of these laws is subject to varying interpretations and constantly evolving. By way of example, HIPAA imposes privacy and security requirements and breach reporting obligations with respect to individually identifiable health information upon “covered entities” (health plans, health care clearinghouses and certain health care providers), and their respective business associates, individuals or entities that create, received, maintain or transmit protected health information in connection with providing a service for or on behalf of a covered entity. HIPAA mandates the reporting of certain breaches of health information to the

 

63


Table of Contents

HHS, affected individuals and if the breach is large enough, the media. Entities that are found to be in violation of HIPAA as the result of a breach of unsecured protected health information, a complaint about privacy practices or an audit by HHS, may be subject to significant civil, criminal and administrative fines and penalties and/or additional reporting and oversight obligations if required to enter into a resolution agreement and corrective action plan with HHS to settle allegations of HIPAA non-compliance. Even when HIPAA does not apply, according to the FTC failing to take appropriate steps to keep consumers’ personal information secure may constitute unfair acts or practices in or affecting commerce in violation of Section 5(a) of the FTCA, 15 U.S.C § 45(a). The FTC expects a company’s data security measures to be reasonable and appropriate in light of the sensitivity and volume of consumer information it holds, the size and complexity of its business and the cost of available tools to improve security and reduce vulnerabilities. Individually identifiable health information is considered sensitive data that merits stronger safeguards.

In addition, certain state laws govern the privacy and security of health information in certain circumstances, some of which are more stringent than HIPAA and many of which differ from each other in significant ways and may not have the same effect, thus complicating compliance efforts. By way of example, the CCPA, which went into effect on January 1, 2020, gives California residents expanded rights to access and delete their personal information, opt out of certain personal information sharing, and receive detailed information about how their personal information is used. The CCPA provides for civil penalties for violations, as well as a private right of action for data breaches that is expected to increase data breach litigation. The CCPA may increase our compliance costs and potential liability. Some observers have noted that the CCPA could mark the beginning of a trend toward more stringent privacy legislation in the United States, which could increase our potential liability and adversely affect our business.

In the European Union, in May 2018, a new privacy regime, the GDPR, took effect in the EEA. The GDPR governs the collection, use, disclosure, transfer or other processing of personal data of European persons. Among other things, the GDPR imposes new requirements regarding the security of personal data and notification of data processing obligations to the competent national data processing authorities, changes the lawful bases on which personal data can be processed, expands the definition of personal data and requires changes to informed consent practices, as well as more detailed notices for clinical trial subjects and investigators. In addition, the GDPR increases the scrutiny of transfers of personal data from clinical trial sites located in the EEA to the United States and other jurisdictions that the European Commission does not recognize as having “adequate” data protection laws, and imposes substantial fines for breaches and violations (up to the greater of €20 million or 4% of our consolidated annual worldwide gross revenue). The GDPR also confers a private right of action on data subjects and consumer associations to lodge complaints with supervisory authorities, seek judicial remedies and obtain compensation for damages resulting from violations of the GDPR. Moreover, the United Kingdom leaving the EU could also lead to further legislative and regulatory changes. It remains unclear how the United Kingdom data protection laws or regulations will develop in the medium to longer term and how data transfer to the United Kingdom from the EU will be regulated, especially following the United Kingdom’s departure from the EU on January 31, 2020. However, the United Kingdom has transposed the GDPR into domestic law with the Data Protection Act 2018, which remains in force following the United Kingdom’s departure from the EU. Compliance with these and any other applicable privacy and data security laws and regulations is a rigorous and time-intensive process, and we may be required to put in place additional mechanisms ensuring compliance with the new data protection rules. If we fail to comply with any such laws or regulations, we may face significant fines and penalties that could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

64


Table of Contents

Risks Related to Our Common Stock and This Offering

There has been no public market for our common stock and an active, liquid and orderly market for our common stock may not develop, and you may not be able to resell your common stock at or above the public offering price.

Prior to this offering, there has been no public market for our common stock. Although our common stock has been approved for listing on the Nasdaq Global Market, or Nasdaq, an active trading market for our common stock may never develop or be sustained following this offering. We and the representatives of the underwriters will determine the initial public offering price of our common stock through negotiations and the negotiated price may not be indicative of the market price of our common stock after this offering. This price will not necessarily reflect the price at which investors in the market will be willing to buy and sell our shares following this offering. In addition, an active trading market may not develop following the consummation of this offering or, if it is developed, may not be sustained. The lack of an active market may impair your ability to sell your shares at the time you wish to sell them or at a price that you consider reasonable. An inactive market may also impair our ability to raise capital by selling shares and may impair our ability to acquire other businesses or technologies using our shares as consideration, which, in turn, could materially adversely affect our business.

The trading price of the shares of our common stock could be highly volatile, and purchasers of our common stock could incur substantial losses.

Our stock price is likely to be volatile. The stock market in general and the market for stock of biopharmaceutical companies in particular have experienced extreme volatility that has often been unrelated to the operating performance of particular companies. As a result of this volatility, investors may not be able to sell their common stock at or above the initial public offering price. The market price for our common stock may be influenced by those factors discussed in this “Risk Factors” section and many others, including:

 

   

results of our preclinical studies and clinical trials, and the results of trials of our competitors or those of other companies in our market sector;

 

   

our ability to enroll patients in our future clinical trials;

 

   

marketing approval of our product candidates, or limitations to specific label indications or patient populations for its use, or changes or delays in the regulatory review process;

 

   

regulatory developments in the United States and foreign countries;

 

   

changes in the structure of healthcare payment systems;

 

   

the success or failure of our efforts to develop, acquire or license additional product candidates;

 

   

innovations, clinical trial results, product approvals and other developments regarding our competitors;

 

   

announcements by us or our competitors of significant acquisitions, strategic partnerships, joint ventures or capital commitments;

 

   

manufacturing, supply or distribution delays or shortages;

 

   

any changes to our relationship with any manufacturers, suppliers, collaborators or other strategic partners;

 

65


Table of Contents
   

achievement of expected product sales and profitability;

 

   

variations in our financial results or those of companies that are perceived to be similar to us;

 

   

market conditions in the biopharmaceutical sector and issuance of securities analysts’ reports or recommendations;

 

   

trading volume of our common stock;

 

   

an inability to obtain additional funding;

 

   

sales of our stock by insiders and stockholders;

 

   

the impact of any natural disasters or public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic;

 

   

general economic, industry and market conditions other events or factors, many of which are beyond our control;

 

   

expiration of market stand-off or lock-up agreements;

 

   

additions or departures of key personnel; and

 

   

intellectual property, product liability or other litigation against us.

In addition, in the past, stockholders have initiated class action lawsuits against biopharmaceutical companies following periods of volatility in the market prices of these companies’ stock. Such litigation, if instituted against us, could cause us to incur substantial costs and divert our management’s attention and resources, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

We may allocate the net proceeds from this offering in ways that you and other stockholders may not approve.

Our management will have broad discretion in the application of the net proceeds from this offering, including for any of the purposes described in the section titled “Use of Proceeds.” Because of the number and variability of factors that will determine our use of the net proceeds from this offering, their ultimate use may vary substantially from their currently intended use. Our management might not apply our net proceeds in ways that ultimately increase the value of your investment, and the failure by our management to apply these funds effectively could harm our business. Pending their use, we may invest the net proceeds from this offering in short- and intermediate-term, interest-bearing obligations, investment-grade instruments, certificates of deposit or direct or guaranteed obligations of the U.S. government. These investments may not yield a favorable return to our stockholders. If we do not invest or apply the net proceeds from this offering in ways that enhance stockholder value, we may fail to achieve expected results, which could cause our stock price to decline.

You will suffer immediate and substantial dilution in the net tangible book value of the common stock you purchase.

The initial public offering price of our common stock is substantially higher than the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share of our outstanding common stock immediately after the completion of this offering. Purchasers of common stock in this offering will experience immediate dilution of approximately $             per share, based upon the initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus. In the past, we issued options to acquire common stock at prices significantly below the initial public offering price. To the extent these outstanding options are ultimately exercised, investors purchasing common stock in this offering will sustain further dilution. For a further description of the dilution that you will experience immediately after this offering, see “Dilution.”

 

66


Table of Contents

After this offering, our executive officers, directors and principal stockholders, if they choose to act together, will continue to have the ability to significantly influence all matters submitted to stockholders for approval.

Following the completion of this offering, our executive officers, directors and greater than 5% stockholders, in the aggregate, will own approximately         % of our outstanding common stock (assuming no exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares and no exercise of outstanding options and no purchases of shares in this offering or the directed share program by any of this group). As a result, such persons, acting together, will have the ability to significantly influence all matters submitted to our board of directors or stockholders for approval, including the appointment of our management, the election and removal of directors and approval of any significant transaction, as well as our management and business affairs. This concentration of ownership may have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control, impeding a merger, consolidation, takeover or other business combination involving us, or discouraging a potential acquiror from making a tender offer or otherwise attempting to obtain control of our business, even if such a transaction would benefit other stockholders.

We do not currently intend to pay dividends on our common stock, and, consequently, your ability to achieve a return on your investment will depend on appreciation, if any, in the price of our common stock.

We have never declared or paid any cash dividend on our common stock. We currently anticipate that we will retain future earnings for the development, operation and expansion of our business and do not anticipate declaring or paying any cash dividends for the foreseeable future. Any return to stockholders will therefore be limited to the appreciation of their stock. There is no guarantee that shares of our common stock will appreciate in value or even maintain the price at which stockholders have purchased their shares.

Sales of a substantial number of shares of our common stock by our existing stockholders in the public market could cause our stock price to fall.

Sales of a substantial number of shares of our common stock in the public market or the perception that these sales might occur could significantly reduce the market price of our common stock and impair our ability to raise adequate capital through the sale of additional equity securities.

Based on shares of common stock outstanding as of June 30, 2021, upon the completion of this offering, we will have outstanding a total of              shares of common stock, assuming no exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares and no exercise of outstanding options. Of these shares, only the              shares of common stock sold in this offering by us, plus any shares sold upon exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares, will be freely tradable, without restriction, in the public market immediately following this offering, unless they are purchased by one of our affiliates.

Our directors and executive officers and holders of substantially all of our outstanding securities have entered into lock-up agreements with the underwriters pursuant to which they may not, with limited exceptions, for a period of 180 days from the date of this prospectus, offer, sell or otherwise transfer or dispose of any of our securities, without the prior written consent of BofA Securities, Inc., Jefferies LLC and Cowen and Company, LLC. The underwriters may permit our officers, directors and other securityholders who are subject to the lock-up agreements to sell shares prior to the expiration of the lock-up agreements at any time in their sole discretion. See “Underwriting.” Sales of these shares, or perceptions that they will be sold, could cause the trading price of our common stock to decline. After the lock-up agreements expire, up to an additional              shares of common stock will be eligible for sale in the public market, of which              shares are held by directors, executive officers and other affiliates and will be subject to volume limitations under Rule 144 under the Securities Act.

In addition, as of June 30, 2021, 113,706 shares of common stock that are subject to outstanding options under our employee benefit plans will become eligible for sale in the public market to the extent permitted by the provisions of various vesting schedules, the lock-up agreements and Rule 144 and Rule 701 under the Securities Act. If these additional shares of common stock are sold, or if it is perceived that they will be sold, in the public market, the trading price of our common stock could decline.

 

67


Table of Contents

After this offering, the holders of              shares of our outstanding common stock, or approximately         % of our total outstanding common stock based on shares outstanding as of June 30, 2021, will be entitled to rights with respect to the registration of their shares under the Securities Act, subject to vesting and the 180-day lock-up agreements described above. See “Description of Capital Stock—Registration Rights.” Registration of these shares under the Securities Act would result in the shares becoming freely tradable without restriction under the Securities Act, except for shares held by affiliates, as defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act. Any sales of securities by these stockholders could have a material adverse effect on the trading price of our common stock.

We are an emerging growth company and a smaller reporting company, and the reduced disclosure requirements applicable to emerging growth companies and smaller reporting companies may make our common stock less attractive to investors.

We are an emerging growth company, as defined in the JOBS Act, and may remain an emerging growth company until the last day of the fiscal year following the fifth anniversary of the completion of this offering. However, if certain events occur prior to the end of such five-year period, including if we become a “large accelerated filer,” our annual gross revenues exceed $1.07 billion or we issue more than $1.0 billion of non-convertible debt in any three-year period, we will cease to be an emerging growth company prior to the end of such five- year period. For so long as we remain an emerging growth company, we are permitted and intend to rely on exemptions from certain disclosure requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not emerging growth companies. These exemptions include:

 

   

being permitted to provide only two years of audited financial statements, in addition to any required unaudited interim financial statements, with correspondingly reduced “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” disclosure;

 

   

not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements in the assessment of our internal control over financial reporting pursuant to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act;

 

   

not being required to comply with any requirement that may be adopted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board regarding mandatory audit firm rotation or a supplement to the auditor’s report providing additional information about the audit and the financial statements, unless the SEC determines the new rules are necessary for protecting the public;

 

   

reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation; and

 

   

exemptions from the requirements of holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation and stockholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved.

We have taken advantage of reduced reporting burdens in this prospectus. In particular, in this prospectus, we have provided only two years of audited financial statements and have not included all of the executive compensation related information that would be required if we were not an emerging growth company. We cannot predict whether investors will find our common stock less attractive if we rely on these exemptions. If some investors find our common stock less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our common stock and our stock price may be reduced or more volatile. In addition, the JOBS Act provides that an emerging growth company can take advantage of an extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards. This allows an emerging growth company to delay the adoption of these accounting standards until they would otherwise apply to private companies. We have elected to avail ourselves of this exemption and, therefore, we will not be subject to the same new or revised accounting standards as other public companies that are not emerging growth companies.

We are also a smaller reporting company as defined in the Exchange Act. We may continue to be a smaller reporting company even after we are no longer an emerging growth company. We may take advantage of

 

68


Table of Contents

certain of the scaled disclosures available to smaller reporting companies and will be able to take advantage of these scaled disclosures for so long as our voting and non-voting common stock held by non-affiliates is less than $250.0 million measured on the last business day of our second fiscal quarter, or our annual revenue is less than $100.0 million during the most recently completed fiscal year.

Participation in this offering by our existing stockholders and/or their affiliated entities may reduce the public float for our common stock.

To the extent certain of our existing stockholders and their affiliated entities participate in this offering, such purchases would reduce the non-affiliate public float of our shares, meaning the number of shares of our common stock that are not held by officers, directors and controlling stockholders. A reduction in the public float could reduce the number of shares that are available to be traded at any given time, thereby adversely impacting the liquidity of our common stock and depressing the price at which you may be able to sell shares of common stock purchased in this offering.

General Risk Factors

We will incur significant increased costs as a result of operating as a public company, and our management will be required to devote substantial time to new compliance initiatives.

As a public company, we will incur significant legal, accounting and other expenses that we did not incur as a private company. We will be subject to the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, which will require, among other things, that we file with the SEC annual, quarterly and current reports with respect to our business and financial condition. In addition, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, as well as rules subsequently adopted by the SEC and Nasdaq to implement provisions of Sarbanes-Oxley, impose significant requirements on public companies, including requiring establishment and maintenance of effective disclosure and financial controls and changes in corporate governance practices. Further, pursuant to the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010, the SEC has adopted additional rules and regulations in these areas, such as mandatory “say on pay” voting requirements that will apply to us when we cease to be an emerging growth company. Stockholder activism, the current political environment and the current high level of government intervention and regulatory reform may lead to substantial new regulations and disclosure obligations, which may lead to additional compliance costs and impact the manner in which we operate our business in ways we cannot currently anticipate.

We expect the rules and regulations applicable to public companies to substantially increase our legal and financial compliance costs and to make some activities more time consuming and costly. If these requirements divert the attention of our management and personnel from other business concerns, they could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. The increased costs will decrease our net income or increase our net loss, and may require us to reduce costs in other areas of our business or increase the prices of our products or services. For example, we expect these rules and regulations to make it more difficult and more expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance, and we may be required to incur substantial costs to maintain the same or similar coverage. We cannot predict or estimate the amount or timing of additional costs we may incur to respond to these requirements. The impact of these requirements could also make it more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified persons to serve on our board of directors, our board committees or as executive officers.

We are subject to U.S. and certain foreign export and import controls, sanctions, embargoes, anti-corruption laws and anti-money laundering laws and regulations. Compliance with these legal standards could impair our ability to compete in domestic and international markets. We could face criminal liability and other serious consequences for violations, which could harm our business.

We are subject to export control and import laws and regulations, including the U.S. Export Administration Regulations, U.S. Customs regulations, and various economic and trade sanctions regulations

 

69


Table of Contents

administered by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Controls and anti-corruption and anti-money laundering laws and regulations, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended, the U.S. domestic bribery statute contained in 18 U.S.C. § 201, the U.S. Travel Act, the USA PATRIOT Act and other state and national anti-bribery and anti-money laundering laws in the countries in which we conduct activities. Anti-corruption laws are interpreted broadly and prohibit companies and their employees, agents, CROs, contractors and other collaborators and partners from authorizing, promising, offering, providing, soliciting or receiving, directly or indirectly, improper payments or anything else of value to recipients in the public or private sector. We may engage third parties for clinical trials outside of the United States, to sell our products abroad once we enter a commercialization phase, and/or to obtain necessary permits, licenses, patent registrations and other regulatory approvals. We have direct or indirect interactions with officials and employees of government agencies or government-affiliated hospitals, universities and other organizations. We can be held liable for the corrupt or other illegal activities of our employees, agents, CROs, contractors and other collaborators and partners, even if we do not explicitly authorize or have actual knowledge of such activities. Any violations of the laws and regulations described above may result in substantial civil and criminal fines and penalties, imprisonment, the loss of export or import privileges, debarment, tax reassessments, breach of contract and fraud litigation, reputational harm and other consequences.

Business disruptions could seriously harm our future revenue and financial condition and increase our costs and expenses.

Our operations could be subject to earthquakes, power shortages, telecommunications failures, water shortages, floods, hurricanes, typhoons, fires, extreme weather conditions, medical epidemics and other natural or manmade disasters or business interruptions, for which we are predominantly self-insured. We rely on third-party manufacturers to produce our product candidates. Our ability to obtain clinical supplies of our product candidates could be disrupted if the operations of these suppliers were affected by a man-made or natural disaster or other business interruption. In addition, our corporate headquarters is located in Carlsbad, California near major earthquake faults and fire zones, and the ultimate impact on us of being located near major earthquake faults and fire zones and being consolidated in a certain geographical area is unknown. The occurrence of any of these business disruptions could seriously harm our operations and financial condition and increase our costs and expenses.

If securities or industry analysts do not publish research or reports or publish unfavorable research or reports about our business, our stock price and trading volume could decline.

The trading market for our common stock will depend in part on the research and reports that securities or industry analysts publish about us, our business, our market or our competitors. We do not currently have and may never obtain research coverage by securities and industry analysts. If no securities or industry analysts commence coverage of our company, the trading price for our stock would be negatively impacted. In the event we obtain securities or industry analyst coverage, if one or more of the analysts who covers us downgrades our stock, our stock price would likely decline. If one or more of these analysts ceases to cover us or fails to regularly publish reports on us, interest in our stock could decrease, which could cause our stock price or trading volume to decline.

If we fail to maintain proper and effective internal control over financial reporting, our ability to produce accurate and timely financial statements could be impaired, investors may lose confidence in our financial reporting and the trading price of our common stock may decline.

Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, our management will be required to report upon the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting beginning with the annual report for our fiscal year ending December 31, 2022. When we lose our status as an “emerging growth company” and reach an accelerated filer threshold, our independent registered public accounting firm will be required to attest to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. The rules governing the standards that must be met for our

 

70


Table of Contents

management to assess our internal control over financial reporting are complex and require significant documentation, testing and possible remediation. To comply with the requirements of being a reporting company under the Exchange Act, we may need to upgrade our information technology systems; implement additional financial and management controls, reporting systems and procedures; and hire additional accounting and finance staff. If we or, if required, our independent registered public accounting firm are unable to conclude that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, investors may lose confidence in our financial reporting and the trading price of our common stock may decline.

We cannot assure you that there will not be material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting in the future. Any failure to maintain internal control over financial reporting could severely inhibit our ability to accurately report our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. If we are unable to conclude that our internal control over financial reporting is effective, or if our independent registered public accounting firm determines we have a material weakness or significant deficiency in our internal control over financial reporting once that firm begin its Section 404 reviews, investors may lose confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports, the market price of our common stock could decline, and we could be subject to sanctions or investigations by Nasdaq, the SEC or other regulatory authorities. Failure to remedy any material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting, or to implement or maintain other effective control systems required of public companies, could also restrict our future access to the capital markets.

Provisions in our charter documents and under Delaware law could discourage a takeover that stockholders may consider favorable and may lead to entrenchment of management.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws that will be in effect immediately prior to the consummation of this offering will contain provisions that could significantly reduce the value of our shares to a potential acquiror or delay or prevent changes in control or changes in our management without the consent of our board of directors. The provisions in our charter documents will include the following:

 

   

a classified board of directors with three-year staggered terms, which may delay the ability of stockholders to change the membership of a majority of our board of directors;

 

   

no cumulative voting in the election of directors, which limits the ability of minority stockholders to elect director candidates;

 

   

the exclusive right of our board of directors, unless the board of directors grants such right to the stockholders, to elect a director to fill a vacancy created by the expansion of the board of directors or the resignation, death or removal of a director, which prevents stockholders from being able to fill vacancies on our board of directors;

 

   

the required approval of at least 66-2/3% of the shares entitled to vote to remove a director for cause, and the prohibition on removal of directors without cause;

 

   

the ability of our board of directors to authorize the issuance of shares of preferred stock and to determine the price and other terms of those shares, including preferences and voting rights, without stockholder approval, which could be used to significantly dilute the ownership of a hostile acquiror;

 

   

the ability of our board of directors to alter our amended and restated bylaws without obtaining stockholder approval;

 

   

the required approval of at least 66-2/3% of the shares entitled to vote to adopt, amend or repeal our amended and restated bylaws or repeal the provisions of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation regarding the election and removal of directors;

 

71


Table of Contents
   

a prohibition on stockholder action by written consent, which forces stockholder action to be taken at an annual or special meeting of our stockholders;

 

   

an exclusive forum provision providing that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware will be the exclusive forum for certain actions and proceedings;

 

   

the requirement that a special meeting of stockholders may be called only by the board of directors, which may delay the ability of our stockholders to force consideration of a proposal or to take action, including the removal of directors; and

 

   

advance notice procedures that stockholders must comply with in order to nominate candidates to our board of directors or to propose matters to be acted upon at a stockholders’ meeting, which may discourage or deter a potential acquiror from conducting a solicitation of proxies to elect the acquiror’s own slate of directors or otherwise attempting to obtain control of us.

We are also subject to the anti-takeover provisions contained in Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law. Under Section 203, a corporation may not, in general, engage in a business combination with any holder of 15% or more of its capital stock unless the holder has held the stock for three years or, among other exceptions, the board of directors has approved the transaction.

Our current amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides, and our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will provide, that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware will be the exclusive forum for substantially all disputes between us and our stockholders and that the federal district courts shall be the exclusive forum for the resolution of any complaint asserting a cause of action arising under the Securities Act, which could limit our stockholders’ ability to obtain a favorable judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers or employees or the underwriters or any offering giving rise to such claim.

Our current amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides, and our amended and restated certificate of incorporation that will be in effect immediately prior to the consummation of this offering will provide, that the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware is the exclusive forum for any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf, any action asserting a breach of fiduciary duty, any action asserting a claim against us arising pursuant to the Delaware General Corporation Law, our amended and restated certificate of incorporation or our amended and restated bylaws, or any action asserting a claim against us that is governed by the internal affairs doctrine, our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will also provide that unless we consent in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the federal district courts of the United States shall be the exclusive forum for the resolution of any complaint asserting a cause of action arising under the Securities Act, including all causes of action asserted against any defendant named in such complaint. For the avoidance of doubt, this provision is intended to benefit and may be enforced by us, our officers and directors, the underwriters to any offering giving rise to such complaint, and any other professional entity whose profession gives authority to a statement made by that person or entity and who has prepared or certified any part of the documents underlying the offering. These choice of forum provisions may limit a stockholder’s ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that it finds favorable for disputes with us or our directors, officers or other employees, which may discourage such lawsuits against us and our directors, officers and other employees and result in increased costs for investors to bring a claim. By agreeing to this provision, however, stockholders will not be deemed to have waived our compliance with the federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder. Furthermore, the enforceability of similar choice of forum provisions in other companies’ certificates of incorporation has been challenged in legal proceedings, and it is possible that a court could find these types of provisions to be inapplicable or unenforceable. If a court were to find the choice of forum provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation to be inapplicable or unenforceable in an action, we may incur additional costs associated with resolving such action in other jurisdictions, which could adversely affect our business and financial condition.

 

72


Table of Contents

We could be subject to securities class action litigation.

In the past, securities class action litigation has often been brought against a company following a decline in the market price of its securities. This risk is especially relevant for us, because biopharmaceutical and biotechnology companies have experienced significant stock price volatility in recent years. If we face such litigation, it could result in substantial costs and a diversion of our management’s attention and resources, which could harm our business.

Our disclosure controls and procedures may not prevent or detect all errors or acts of fraud.

Upon the completion of this offering, we will become subject to the periodic reporting requirements of the Exchange Act. We designed our disclosure controls and procedures to reasonably assure that information we must disclose in reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, and recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the rules and forms of the SEC. We believe that any disclosure controls and procedures or internal controls and procedures, no matter how well-conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system are met.

 

73


Table of Contents

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This prospectus contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, which statements are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties and are based on estimates and assumptions. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this prospectus, including statements concerning our future results of operations and financial position, the timing and likelihood of success, plans and objectives of management for future operations, and business trends and other information contained in this prospectus are forward-looking statements, including statements about:

 

   

the timing, scope and likelihood of regulatory filings and approvals, including timing of INDs and final FDA approval of our current and future product candidates, including TYRA-300;

 

   

the ability of our preclinical studies and planned clinical trials to demonstrate safety and efficacy of our product candidates, and other positive results;

 

   

the timing, progress and results of preclinical studies and planned clinical trials for our current product candidates and other product candidates we may develop, including statements regarding the timing of initiation and completion of studies or trials and related preparatory work, the period during which the results of the studies or trials will become available, and our research and development programs;

 

   

our ability to obtain and maintain regulatory approval of our product candidates, including TYRA-300, in any of the indications for which we plan to develop them, and any related restrictions, limitations, and/or warnings in the label of an approved product candidate;

 

   

our ability to obtain funding for our operations, including funding necessary to complete the clinical trials of any of our current and future product candidates, including TYRA-300;

 

   

our plans to research, develop and commercialize our current and future product candidates, including TYRA-300;

 

   

our ability to attract, and negotiate favorable terms of, any collaboration, licensing or other arrangements that may be necessary or desirable to develop, manufacture or commercialize our current and future product candidates;

 

   

the size of the markets for our product candidates, and our ability to serve those markets;

 

   

our continued reliance on third parties to conduct additional preclinical studies and planned clinical trials of our product candidates, and for the manufacture of our product candidates for preclinical studies and clinical trials;

 

   

our ability to successfully commercialize our current and future product candidates, including TYRA-300;

 

   

the rate and degree of market acceptance of our current and future product candidates, including TYRA-300;

 

   

our ability to develop and maintain sales and marketing capabilities, whether alone or with potential future collaborators;

 

74


Table of Contents
   

our estimates of the number of patients that we will enroll in our clinical trials;

 

   

regulatory developments in the United States and foreign countries;

 

   

the performance of our third-party suppliers and manufacturers;

 

   

the success of competing therapies that are or become available;

 

   

our ability to attract and retain key scientific or management personnel;

 

   

our use of the proceeds from this offering;

 

   

the accuracy of our estimates regarding expenses, future revenues, capital requirements and needs for additional financing;

 

   

our expectations regarding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business; and

 

   

our expectations regarding our ability to obtain and maintain intellectual property protection for our product candidates and our ability to operate our business without infringing on the intellectual property rights of others.

In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target” or “will” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions intended to identify statements about the future. Because forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified and some of which are beyond our control, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. The events and circumstances reflected in our forward-looking statements may not be achieved or occur and actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements.

In addition, statements that “we believe” and similar statements reflect our beliefs and opinions on the relevant subject. These statements are based upon information available to us as of the date of this prospectus, and while we believe such information forms a reasonable basis for such statements, such information may be limited or incomplete, and our statements should not be read to indicate that we have conducted an exhaustive inquiry into, or review of, all potentially available relevant information. These statements are inherently uncertain and investors are cautioned not to unduly rely upon these statements.

We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about our business, the industry in which we operate and financial trends that we believe may affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects, and these forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance or development. You should read the section titled “Risk Factors” for a discussion of important factors that may cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by our forward-looking statements. Moreover, we operate in an evolving environment. New risk factors and uncertainties may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for management to predict all risk factors and uncertainties. As a result of these factors, we cannot assure you that the forward-looking statements in this prospectus will prove to be accurate. Except as required by applicable law, we do not plan to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements contained herein, whether as a result of any new information, future events, changed circumstances or otherwise.

You should read this prospectus and the documents that we reference in this prospectus and have filed as exhibits to the registration statement, of which this prospectus is a part, completely and with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from what we expect. We qualify all of our forward-looking statements in this prospectus by these cautionary statements.

 

75


Table of Contents

INDUSTRY AND OTHER DATA

Certain market, industry and competitive data included in this prospectus were obtained from our own internal estimates and research, as well as from publicly available information, reports of governmental agencies and academic and industry research, publications and surveys conducted by third parties. In some cases, we do not expressly refer to the sources from which this data is derived. In that regard, when we refer to one or more sources of this type of data in any paragraph, you should assume that other data of this type appearing in the same paragraph is derived from the same sources, unless otherwise expressly stated or the context otherwise requires. Information that is based on estimates, forecasts, projections, market research or similar methodologies is inherently subject to uncertainties and involve a number of assumptions and limitations. While we believe that the data we use from third parties are reliable, we have not separately verified this data. Internal estimates are derived from publicly available information released by industry analysts and third-party sources, our internal research and our industry experience, and are based on assumptions made by us based on such data and our knowledge of our industry and market, which we believe to be reasonable. The industry in which we operate is subject to a high degree of uncertainty and risk due to a variety of factors, including those described in the section of this prospectus titled “Risk Factors.” These and other factors could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in the estimates made by the independent parties and by us.

 

76


Table of Contents

USE OF PROCEEDS

We estimate that the net proceeds to us from this offering will be approximately $             million, assuming an initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. If the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares from us is exercised in full, we estimate that our net proceeds will be approximately $             million, after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

Each $1.00 increase (decrease) in the assumed initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase (decrease) the net proceeds to us from this offering by approximately $             million, assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same, and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. We may also increase or decrease the number of shares we are offering. A 1,000,000 share increase (decrease) in the number of shares offered by us would increase (decrease) the net proceeds to us from this offering by approximately $             million, assuming that the assumed initial offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same, and after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. We do not expect that a change in the initial price to the public or the number of shares by these amounts would have a material effect on the uses of the proceeds from this offering, although it may accelerate the time at which we will need to seek additional capital.

The principal purposes of this offering are to obtain additional capital to support our operations, to create a public market for our common stock and to facilitate our future access to the public equity markets. We intend to use the net proceeds from this offering, together with our existing cash and cash equivalents, as follows:

 

   

approximately $             to fund the development of TYRA-300, including through the completion of the Phase 1 portion of our planned Phase 1/2 clinical trial;

 

   

approximately $             to fund the development of our FGFR2 program, including through Phase 1 clinical development;

 

   

approximately $             to fund the development of our FGFR3 program for achondroplasia, including through advancement into the clinic; and

 

   

the remainder to fund the discovery and preclinical development of additional product candidates, as well as for headcount costs, working capital and other general corporate purposes.

We may also use a portion of the net proceeds to in-license, acquire, or invest in additional businesses, technologies, products or assets, although currently we have no specific agreements, commitments or understandings in this regard.

Based on our planned use of the net proceeds from this offering and our current cash and cash equivalents, we estimate that such funds will enable us to fund our operating expenses and capital expenditure requirements through at least the next              months. We have based this estimate on assumptions that may prove to be incorrect, and we could use our available capital resources sooner than we currently expect.

This expected use of the net proceeds from this offering represents our current intentions based upon our present plans and business conditions, which could change in the future as our plans and business conditions evolve. As of the date of this prospectus, we cannot predict with certainty all of the particular uses for the net proceeds to be received upon the completion of this offering or the amounts that we will actually spend on the uses set forth above. Our existing cash as of the date of this prospectus, together with the estimated net proceeds from this offering, will not be sufficient to fund development of our product candidates through regulatory

 

77


Table of Contents

approval and commercialization, and we will need to raise substantial additional capital to complete the development and commercialization of our product candidates. The amounts and timing of our actual expenditures may vary significantly depending on numerous factors, including the time and cost necessary to conduct our ongoing and planned preclinical studies and planned clinical trials, the results of such studies and trials, as well as any collaborations that we may enter into with third parties for our product candidates, and the amount of cash used in our operations and any unforeseen cash needs as well as other factors described in the section of this prospectus titled “Risk Factors”. We may find it necessary or advisable to use the net proceeds for other purposes. As a result, our management will retain broad discretion over the allocation of the net proceeds from this offering.

Pending our use of the net proceeds from this offering, we intend to invest the net proceeds in a variety of capital preservation investments, including short-term and intermediate-term, investment-grade, interest-bearing instruments and U.S. government securities.

 

78


Table of Contents

DIVIDEND POLICY

We have never declared or paid, and do not anticipate declaring or paying, in the foreseeable future, any cash dividends on our capital stock. We currently intend to retain all available funds and any future earnings to support our operations and finance the growth and development of our business. Any future determination related to our dividend policy will be made at the discretion of our board of directors and will depend upon, among other factors, our results of operations, financial condition, capital requirements, contractual restrictions, business prospects and other factors our board of directors may deem relevant.

 

79


Table of Contents

CAPITALIZATION

The following table sets forth our cash and cash equivalents and our capitalization as of June 30, 2021:

 

   

on an actual basis;

 

   

on a pro forma basis to give effect to (i) the automatic conversion of all outstanding shares of our convertible preferred stock into an aggregate of 10,097,839 shares of common stock upon the completion of this offering and the related reclassification of the carrying value of the convertible preferred stock to permanent equity immediately prior to the completion of this offering, and (ii) the filing and effectiveness of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, which will occur upon the completion of this offering; and

 

   

on a pro forma as adjusted basis to give further effect to our issuance and sale of              shares of our common stock in this offering at an assumed initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

The pro forma as adjusted information set forth above is illustrative only and our cash and cash equivalents and capitalization following the completion of this offering will change based on the actual initial public offering price and other terms of this offering determined at pricing. You should read the information in this table together with our financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus and the section titled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

 

     As of June 30, 2021  
     Actual     Pro
Forma
     Pro Forma
As
Adjusted(1)
 
    

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

(unaudited)

 

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 135,204     $                    $                
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Stockholders’ (deficit) equity:

Common stock, $0.0001 par value; 12,987,667 shares authorized, 1,496,521 shares issued and 914,132 shares outstanding, actual; 500,000,000 shares authorized, 11,594,360 shares issued and 11,011,971 outstanding, pro forma; 500,000,000 shares authorized,             shares issued and outstanding, pro forma as adjusted

     —         

Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; no shares authorized, issued and outstanding, actual; 50,000,000 shares authorized and no shares issued and outstanding, pro forma and pro forma as adjusted

     —         

Series A convertible preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; 6,223,046 shares authorized; 6,223,046 shares issued and outstanding, actual; no shares authorized, issued or outstanding, pro forma and pro forma as adjusted

     51,146       

Series B convertible preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; 3,874,793 authorized; 3,874,793 shares issued and outstanding, actual; no shares authorized, issued or outstanding, pro forma and pro forma as adjusted

     106,128       

Additional paid-in capital

     1,131       

Accumulated deficit

     (23,798     
  

 

 

      

Total stockholders’ (deficit) equity

     (22,667     
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total capitalization

   $ 134,607     $        $    
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

(1)

Each $1.00 increase (decrease) in the assumed initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase (decrease) the pro forma as adjusted amount of each of cash and cash equivalents, additional paid-in capital, total stockholders’ equity and total capitalization by approximately $             million, assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same, and after

 

80


Table of Contents
  deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. We may also increase or decrease the number of shares we are offering. A 1,000,000 share increase (decrease) in the number of shares offered by us at the assumed initial public offering price per share of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase (decrease) the pro forma as adjusted amount of each of cash and cash equivalents, additional paid-in capital, total stockholders’ equity and total capitalization by approximately $             million, after deducting estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us.

The number of shares of our common stock to be outstanding after this offering pro forma and pro forma as adjusted reflected in the table above excludes:

 

   

995,940 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options outstanding as of June 30, 2021 under the 2020 Plan, with a weighted-average exercise price of $7.47 per share;

 

   

             shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under the 2021 Plan (including              shares of common stock reserved for future grant or issuance under our 2020 Plan as of June 30, 2021, which shares will be added to the shares reserved under the 2021 Plan upon its effectiveness), as well as any annual automatic increases in the number of shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under the 2021 Plan, which will become effective on the day prior to the public trading date of our common stock; and

 

   

             shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under the ESPP, as well as any annual automatic increases in the number of shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under the ESPP, which will become effective on the day prior to the public trading date of our common stock.

 

81


Table of Contents

DILUTION

If you invest in our common stock in this offering, your ownership interest will be immediately diluted to the extent of the difference between the initial public offering price per share of our common stock and the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share of our common stock after this offering.

Our historical net tangible book value (deficit) was $(22.7) million as of June 30, 2021, or $(15.15) per share of our common stock, based on 1,496,521 shares of common stock outstanding as of such date, including 582,389 shares of unvested restricted common stock. Our historical net tangible book value (deficit) per share represents the amount of our total tangible assets less total liabilities and convertible preferred stock, which is not included in our stockholders deficit, divided by the total number of shares of common stock outstanding at June 30, 2021.

On a pro forma basis after giving effect to the automatic conversion of all outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock into an aggregate of 10,097,839 shares of our common stock and the related reclassification of the carrying value of the convertible preferred stock to permanent equity immediately prior to the completion of this offering, and assuming this conversion had occurred on June 30, 2021, our pro forma net tangible book value as of June 30, 2021 would have been approximately $134.6 million, or approximately $11.61 per share of our common stock.

After giving further effect to the sale of              shares of our common stock in this offering at the assumed initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us, our pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value as of June 30, 2021 would have been $             million, or approximately $             per share. This amount represents an immediate increase in pro forma net tangible book value of $             per share to our existing stockholders and an immediate dilution in pro forma net tangible book value of approximately $             per share to new investors participating in this offering.

Dilution per share to new investors is determined by subtracting pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering from the assumed initial public offering price per share paid by new investors. The following table illustrates this dilution (without giving effect to any exercise by the underwriters of their option to purchase additional shares):

 

Assumed initial public offering price per share

      $                
     

 

 

 

Historical net tangible book value (deficit) per share as of June 30, 2021

   $ (15.15   

Increase per share attributable to the automatic conversion of preferred stock upon the completion of this offering

     26.76     
  

 

 

    

Pro forma net tangible book value per share as of June 30, 2021

     

Increase in pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share attributable to new investors purchasing shares in this offering

     11.61     
  

 

 

    

Pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering

     
     

 

 

 

Dilution per share to new investors purchasing shares in this offering

      $                
     

 

 

 

Each $1.00 increase (decrease) in the assumed initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase (decrease) the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering by approximately $ , and dilution in pro forma net tangible book value per share to new investors by approximately $            , assuming that the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and the estimated offering expenses payable by us. We may also increase or decrease the number of shares we are offering. An increase of 1,000,000 shares in the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would increase our pro forma as

 

82


Table of Contents

adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering by approximately $             and decrease the dilution to investors participating in this offering by approximately $             per share, assuming that the assumed initial public offering price remains the same, and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and the estimated offering expenses payable by us. Similarly, a decrease of 1,000,000 shares in the number of shares offered by us, as set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, would decrease the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share after this offering by approximately $             and increase the dilution to investors participating in this offering by approximately $             per share, assuming the assumed initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, remains the same, and after deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and the estimated offering expenses payable by us.

If the underwriters exercise their option to purchase up to additional shares of our common stock in full in this offering, the pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value after the offering would be $             per share, the increase in pro forma as adjusted net tangible book value per share to existing stockholders would be $             per share and the dilution per share to new investors would be $             per share, in each case assuming an initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus.

The following table summarizes, on a pro forma as adjusted basis as of June 30, 2021 the number of shares of common stock purchased or to be purchased from us, the total consideration paid or to be paid to us in cash and the average price per share paid by existing stockholders for shares issued prior to this offering and the price to be paid by new investors in this offering. The calculation below is based on the assumed initial public offering price of $             per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover page of this prospectus, before deducting the estimated underwriting discounts and commissions and estimated offering expenses payable by us. As the table below shows, investors participating in this offering will pay an average price per share substantially higher than our existing stockholders paid.

 

     Shares Purchased     Total Consideration     Average
Price Per
Share
 
     Number      Percent     Amount      Percent  

Existing stockholders

               $                             $                

New investors

            
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

                         100.0   $        $ 100.0   $    
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

The information presented in the tables and discussions above is based on 11,594,360 shares of our common stock outstanding as of June 30, 2021, including 582,389 shares of unvested restricted common stock outstanding as of that date, gives effect to the automatic conversion of all of our outstanding shares of convertible preferred stock into an aggregate of 10,097,839 shares of our common stock immediately prior to the completion of this offering, and excludes:

 

   

995,940 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options outstanding as of June 30, 2021 under the 2020 Plan, with a weighted-average exercise price of $7.47 per share;

 

   

             shares of common stock reserved for future issuance under the 2021 Plan (including              shares of common stock reserved for future grant or issuance under our 2020 Plan as of June 30, 2021, which shares will be added to the shares reserved under the 2021 Plan upon its effectiveness), as well as any annual automatic increases in the number of shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under the 2021 Plan, which will become effective on the day prior to the public trading date of our common stock; and

 

   

             shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under the ESPP, as well as any annual automatic increases in the number of shares of our common stock reserved for future issuance under the ESPP, which will become effective on the day prior to the public trading date of our common stock in connection with the completion of this offering.

 

83


Table of Contents

See Note 7 to our audited and unaudited financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus for a discussion of our outstanding restricted common stock.

We may choose to raise additional capital through the sale of equity or convertible debt securities due to market conditions or strategic considerations even if we believe we have sufficient funds for our current or future operating plans. To the extent any options are exercised, or we issue additional shares of common stock or other equity or convertible debt securities in the future, there will be further dilution to investors participating in this offering.

 

84


Table of Contents

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

We have elected to comply with Item 301 of Regulation S-K, as amended February 10, 2021, and are omitting this disclosure in reliance thereon.

 

85


Table of Contents

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

You should read the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations together with our financial statements and the related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus. This discussion and analysis and other parts of this prospectus contain forward-looking statements based upon current beliefs, plans and expectations related to future events and our future financial performance that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions, such as statements regarding our intentions, plans, objectives and expectations for our business. Our actual results and the timing of selected events could differ materially from those described in or implied by these forward-looking statements as a result of several factors, including those set forth in the section titled “Risk Factors.” Please also see the section titled “Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”

Overview

We are a precision oncology company focused on developing purpose-built therapies to overcome tumor resistance and improve outcomes for patients with cancer. The widespread availability of approved targeted oncology treatments, such as kinase inhibitors, has transformed the cancer treatment landscape. Despite the therapeutic benefit that targeted oncology treatments have created for some patients, the response rate and duration of efficacy is often limited by acquired drug resistance and other shortcomings of existing therapies. We are using our proprietary SNÅP platform, which is optimized to enable rapid and precise refinement of structural design through iterative molecular SNÅPshots, in order to generate next-generation product candidates that are specifically designed to address acquired drug resistance and provide alternative treatment options. We are initially focused on developing a pipeline of selective inhibitors of the Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor, or FGFR, family, which are altered in approximately 7% of all cancers. Our lead product candidate, TYRA-300, is designed to selectively inhibit FGFR3, with an initial focus on patients with bladder cancer. We anticipate filing an Investigational New Drug application, or IND, with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or the FDA, for TYRA-300 in mid-2022. In addition, we have pipeline development programs targeting FGFR2-related cancers, FGFR3-related achondroplasia, REarranged during Transfection kinase, or RET, and FGFR4-related cancers.

We commenced our operations in 2018 and have devoted substantially all of our resources to organizing and staffing the company, business planning, raising capital, developing our proprietary SNÅP platform, undertaking research and development activities for our development programs, establishing our intellectual property portfolio, and providing general and administrative support for our operations. From our inception through June 30, 2021, we have raised aggregate gross proceeds of $157.2 million to fund our operations, comprised primarily from our private placements of our convertible preferred stock and issuance of Simple Agreement for Future Equity, or SAFEs. As of June 30, 2021, we had cash and cash equivalents of $135.2 million.

We have incurred significant operating losses since inception. Our net losses for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020 were $4.1 million and $9.3 million, respectively. Our net losses for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021 were $3.3 million and $9.7 million, respectively. As of June 30, 2021, we had an accumulated deficit of $23.8 million. Our net losses may fluctuate significantly from quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year, depending on the timing of our clinical development activities, other research and development activities and capital expenditures. We expect to continue to incur significant expenses and increasing operating losses for the foreseeable future particularly if and as we conduct preclinical studies and planned clinical trials, continue our research and development activities, utilize third parties to manufacture our product candidates and related raw materials, hire additional personnel, expand and protect our intellectual property, and incur additional costs associated with being a public company.

Based on our current operating plan, we believe that our existing cash and cash equivalents, together with the estimated net proceeds from this offering, will be sufficient to fund our operating expenses and capital expenditures through at least the next         months. We have never generated any revenue and do not expect to

 

86


Table of Contents

generate any revenues from product sales unless and until we successfully complete development of and obtain regulatory approval for our product candidates, which will not be for several years, if ever. In addition, if we obtain regulatory approval for any of our product candidates, we expect to incur significant commercialization expenses related to product sales, marketing, manufacturing and distribution. Accordingly, until such time as we can generate significant revenue from sales of our product candidates, if ever, we expect to finance our cash needs through equity offerings, debt financings or other capital sources, including potential collaborations, licenses and other similar arrangements. However, we may not be able to raise additional funds or enter into such other arrangements when needed or on favorable terms, or at all. If we are unable to raise additional capital or enter into such arrangements when needed, we could be forced to delay, limit, reduce or terminate our research and development programs or future commercialization efforts, or grant rights to develop and market our product candidates even if we would otherwise prefer to develop and market such product candidates ourselves.

The global COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, and we will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation closely. The extent of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business, operations and development timelines and plans remains uncertain, and will depend on certain developments, including the duration and spread of the pandemic and its impact on our development activities, contract research organizations, or CROs, third-party manufacturers and other third parties with whom we do business, as well as its impact on regulatory authorities and our key scientific and management personnel.

Components of Results of Operations

Operating Expenses

Research and Development Expenses

To date, our research and development expenses consist primarily of external and internal costs related to the development of our SNÅP platform and our product candidates and development programs. Our research and development expenses primarily include:

 

   

external costs, including:

 

   

expenses incurred in connection with the discovery and preclinical development of our product candidates, including under agreements with third parties, such as consultants and CROs;

 

   

costs associated with consultants for chemistry, manufacturing and controls, or CMC development, and other services;

 

   

the cost of manufacturing compounds for use in our preclinical studies, including under agreements with third parties, such as consultants and third-party manufacturers;

 

   

internal costs, including:

 

   

employee-related expenses, including salaries, related benefits, travel and share-based compensation expenses for employees engaged in research and development functions;

 

   

the costs of laboratory supplies and acquiring, developing and manufacturing preclinical study materials; and

 

   

facilities, depreciation and other expenses, which include allocated expenses for rent and maintenance of facilities, and supplies.

 

87


Table of Contents

We expense research and development expenses in the periods in which they are incurred. External expenses are recognized based on an evaluation of the progress to completion of specific tasks using information provided to us by our service providers or our estimate of the level of service that has been performed at each reporting date. We track external expenses on a development program and other program specific basis. However, we do not track internal costs on a program specific basis because these costs primarily relate to compensation, early research and consumable costs, which are deployed across multiple programs under development.

Research and development activities are central to our business model. There are numerous factors associated with the successful development of any of our product candidates, including future trial design and various regulatory requirements, many of which cannot be determined with accuracy at this time based on our stage of development. In addition, future regulatory factors beyond our control may impact our clinical development programs. Product candidates in later stages of development generally have higher development costs than those in earlier stages of development. As a result, we expect that our research and development expenses will increase substantially over the next several years as we advance our product candidates through preclinical studies into and through clinical trials, continue to discover and develop additional product candidates and expand our pipeline, maintain, expand, protect and enforce our intellectual property portfolio, and hire additional personnel.

Our future research and development expenses may vary significantly based on a wide variety of factors such as:

 

   

the number and scope, rate of progress, expense and results of our discovery and preclinical development activities and clinical trials;

 

   

the number of trials required for approval;

 

   

the number of sites included in the trials;

 

   

the countries in which the trials are conducted;

 

   

the length of time required to enroll eligible patients;

 

   

the number of patients that participate in the trials;

 

   

the number of doses that patients receive;

 

   

the drop-out or discontinuation rates of patients;

 

   

potential additional safety monitoring requested by regulatory agencies;

 

   

the duration of patient participation in the trials and follow-up;

 

   

the phase of development of the product candidate;

 

   

the efficacy and safety profile of the product candidate;

 

   

the timing, receipt, and terms of any approvals from applicable regulatory authorities including the FDA and non-U.S. regulators;

 

   

maintaining a continued acceptable safety profile of our product candidates following approval, if any;

 

88


Table of Contents
   

the cost and timing of manufacturing our product candidates;

 

   

significant and changing government regulation and regulatory guidance;

 

   

the impact of any business interruptions to our operations or to those of the third parties with whom we work, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic environment; and

 

   

the extent to which we establish additional strategic collaborations or other arrangements.

A change in the outcome of any of these variables with respect to the development of any of our product candidates could significantly change the costs and timing associated with the development of that product candidate.

The process of conducting the necessary preclinical and clinical research to obtain regulatory approval is costly and time-consuming. The actual probability of success for our product candidates or any future candidates may be affected by a variety of factors. We may never succeed in achieving regulatory approval for any of our product candidates or any future candidates.

General and Administrative Expenses

General and administrative expenses consist primarily of personnel-related expenses, including employee salaries, bonuses, benefits, and stock-based compensation charges, for personnel in executive and administrative functions. Other significant general and administrative expenses include legal fees relating to intellectual property and corporate matters, professional fees for accounting, tax and consulting services and insurance costs. We expect our general and administrative expenses will increase for the foreseeable future to support our increased research and development activities, manufacturing activities, and the increased costs associated with operating as a public company. These increased costs will likely include increased expenses related to hiring of additional personnel, audit, legal, regulatory and tax-related services associated with maintaining compliance with exchange listing and Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, requirements, director and officer insurance costs, and investor and public relations costs.

Change in Fair Value of SAFEs

We issued SAFEs in 2018 and 2019 for which we have elected to account for using the fair value option. We adjust the carrying value of our SAFEs to their estimated fair value at each reporting date, with any change in fair value of the SAFE recorded as an increase or decrease to change in fair value of simple agreement for future equity in our statement of operations and comprehensive loss.

 

89


Table of Contents

Results of Operations

Comparison of the Six Months Ended June 30, 2020 and 2021

The following table summarizes our results of operations for the periods indicated (in thousands):

 

    

Six Months Ended
June 30,

    

 

 
    

2020

    

2021

    

Change

 
     (unaudited)         

Operating expenses:

        

Research and development

   $ 2,413      $ 7,902      $ 5,489  

General and administrative

     875        1,816        941  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

     3,288        9,718        6,430  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Loss from operations

     (3,288      (9,718      (6,430

Other (expense) income:

        

Interest income

     1        5        4  

Change in fair value of SAFE commitments

     (15      —          15  

Other expense

     (10      (8      2  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other expense

     (24      (3      21  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net loss and comprehensive loss

   $ (3,312    $ (9,721    $ (6,409
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Research and Development Expenses

Research and development expenses were $2.4 million and $7.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021, respectively. The increase of $5.5 million was primarily due to additional spend to support the advancement of our TYRA-300 and other development programs, including preclinical studies and chemistry. Further, we incurred $1.3 million higher personnel-related costs in the first six months ended June 30, 2021 as compared to 2020, as we expanded the number of research and development employees to support our programs, including an additional $0.2 million of non-cash stock-based compensation costs.

The following table summarizes our research and development expenses by development program for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021 (in thousands):

 

     Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
     2020      2021  

External research and development expense by program

     

TYRA-300

   $ 1,314      $ 2,818  

Other development programs

     102        2,571  

Unallocated research and development expense

     

Other research and development

     272        520  

Compensation and stock-based compensation

     725        1,993  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total research and development expense

   $ 2,413      $ 7,902  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

General and Administrative Expenses

General and administrative expenses were $0.9 million and $1.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021, respectively. The increase of $0.9 million was primarily due to an increase of $0.3 million in personnel-related expenses including $0.1 million in non-cash stock-based compensation costs, and $0.6 million in professional services related to accounting and recruiting services, and other consulting fees.

 

90


Table of Contents

Change in Fair Value of Simple Agreement for Future Equity

Change in fair value of SAFE was $15,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2020. The SAFEs were converted to Series A convertible preferred stock in January 2020.

Comparison of the Years Ended December 31, 2019 and 2020

The following table summarizes our results of operations for the periods indicated (in thousands):

 

    

Year Ended
December 31,

        
    

2019

    

2020

    

Change

 

Operating expenses:

        

Research and development

   $ 1,790      $ 7,203      $ 5,413  

General and administrative

     1,332        2,094        762  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

     3,122        9,297        6,175  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Loss from operations

     (3,122      (9,297      (6,175

Other expense:

        

Interest expense

     (1      (1      —    

Change in fair value of SAFE commitments

     (934      (15      919  

Other expenses

     (8      (23      (15
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total other expense

     (943      (39      904  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net loss and comprehensive loss

   $ (4,065    $ (9,336    $ (5,271
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Research and Development Expenses

Research and development expenses were $1.8 million and $7.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, respectively. The increase of $5.4 million was primarily due to additional spend to support the advancement of our TYRA-300 and other development programs in 2020, including preclinical studies and chemistry. Further, we incurred $1.4 million higher personnel-related costs in 2020 as compared to 2019, as we expanded the number of research and development employees to support our programs, including an additional $0.1 million of non-cash stock-based compensation costs.

The following table summarizes our research and development expenses by development program for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020 (in thousands):

 

    

Year Ended
December 31,

 
    

2019

    

2020

 

External research and development expense by program

     

TYRA-300

   $ —        $ 4,189  

Other development programs

     —          454  

Unallocated research and development expense

     

Other research and development

     1,236        642  

Compensation and stock-based compensation

     554        1,918  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total research and development expense

   $ 1,790      $ 7,203  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

General and Administrative Expenses

General and administrative expenses were $1.3 million and $2.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, respectively. The increase of $0.8 million was primarily due to increases of $0.4 million in personnel-related expenses, including $0.3 million in non-cash stock-based compensation costs, and $0.4 million in professional services related to accounting and recruiting services, and other consulting fees.

 

91


Table of Contents

Change in Fair Value of Simple Agreement for Future Equity

Change in fair value of SAFE was $0.9 million and $15,000 for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, respectively. The SAFEs were converted to Series A convertible preferred stock in January 2020.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Sources of Liquidity

Since our inception, we have not generated any revenue and have incurred net losses and negative cash flows from our operations. We anticipate we will continue to incur significant operating losses for the foreseeable future as we continue to develop our current and future product candidates and may never become profitable. From our inception through June 30, 2021, we have raised aggregate gross proceeds of $157.2 million to fund our operations, comprised primarily from our private placements of our convertible preferred stock and issuance of SAFEs. As of June 30, 2021, we had cash and cash equivalents of $135.2 million and an accumulated deficit of $23.8 million.

Cash Flows

The following table sets forth a summary of our cash flows for the periods indicated (in thousands):

 

    

Year Ended
December 31,

    

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 
    

2019

    

2020

    

2020

    

2021

 

Net cash used in operating activities

   $ (2,618    $ (7,763    $ (3,118    $ (9,139

Net cash used in investing activities

     (20      (312      (137      (300

Net cash provided by financing activities

     157        23,434        23,444        129,419  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net cash increase (decrease) for the period

   $ (2,481    $ 15,359      $ 20,189      $ 119,980  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Operating Activities

We have incurred significant operating losses since inception. Net cash used in operating activities for the six months ended June 30, 2020 was $3.1 million, consisting primarily of our net loss of $ 3.3 million, offset by $0.2 million of non-cash charges related primarily to stock-based compensation expense.

Net cash used in operating activities for the six months ended June 30, 2021 was $9.1 million, consisting primarily of our net loss of $9.7 million, adjusted for $0.6 million of non-cash charges. Non-cash charges consisted primarily of $0.5 million of stock-based compensation expense.

Net cash used in operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2019 was $2.6 million, consisting primarily of our net loss of $4.1 million, adjusted for $1.0 million of non-cash charges and $0.5 million for net changes in operating assets and liabilities. Noncash charges consisted primarily of $0.9 million related to the change in fair value of our SAFEs. The net change in operating assets and liabilities was primarily related to $0.5 million increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities.

Net cash used in operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $7.8 million, consisting primarily of our net loss of $9.3 million, adjusted for $0.5 million of non-cash charges and $1.0 million for net changes in operating assets and liabilities. Non-cash charges consisted primarily of $0.4 million of stock-based compensation expense. The net change in operating assets and liabilities was primarily related to $1.0 million increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities.

 

92


Table of Contents

Investing Activities

Net cash used in investing activities for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021 was $0.1 million and $0.3 million, respectively, consisting of purchases of property and equipment.

Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2020 was $20,000 and $0.3 million, respectively, consisting of purchases of property and equipment.

Financing Activities

Net cash provided by financing activities was $23.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and was primarily related to net proceeds of $23.3 million from the issuance of Series A convertible preferred stock. Net cash provided by financing activities was $129.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, due to net proceeds of $23.5 million from the second closing of our Series A convertible preferred stock, $106.1 million in net proceeds from the issuance of our Series B convertible preferred stock, and $0.5 million from proceeds received from the exercise of stock options, partially offset by $0.7 million payment for deferred offering costs.

Net cash provided by financing activities was $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2019, primarily due to proceeds for the issuance of our SAFEs. Net cash provided by financing activities was $23.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2020, primarily due to net proceeds of $23.3 million received from the issuance of our Series A convertible preferred stock, and $0.1 million from proceeds received from the exercise of stock options.

Future Funding Requirements

Based on our current operating plan, we believe that our existing cash and cash equivalents, together with the estimated net proceeds from this offering, will be sufficient to meet our anticipated operating expenses and capital expenditures through at least the next                    months. However, our forecast of the period of time through which our financial resources will be adequate to support our operations is a forward-looking statement that involves risks and uncertainties, and actual results could vary materially. We have based this estimate on assumptions that may prove to be wrong, and we could deplete our capital resources sooner than we expect. Additionally, the process of conducting preclinical studies and testing product candidates in clinical trials is costly, and the timing of progress and expenses in these studies and trials is uncertain.

Our future capital requirements will depend on many factors, including:

 

   

the initiation, type, number, scope, results, costs and timing of, our ongoing and planned preclinical studies and clinical trials of existing product candidates or clinical trials of other potential product candidates we may choose to pursue in the future, including based on feedback received from regulatory authorities;

 

   

the costs and timing of manufacturing for current or future product candidates, including commercial scale manufacturing if any product candidate is approved;

 

   

the costs, timing and outcome of regulatory review of current or future product candidates;

 

   

the costs of obtaining, maintaining and enforcing our patents and other intellectual property rights;

 

   

our efforts to enhance operational systems and hire additional personnel to satisfy our obligations as a public company, including enhanced internal controls over financial reporting;

 

   

the costs associated with hiring additional personnel and consultants as our business grows, including additional executive officers and clinical development personnel;

 

93


Table of Contents
   

the terms and timing of establishing and maintaining collaborations, licenses and other similar arrangements;

 

   

the timing and amount of the milestone or other payments we must make to any future licensors;

 

   

the costs and timing of establishing or securing sales and marketing capabilities if any current or future product candidate is approved;

 

   

our ability to achieve sufficient market acceptance, coverage and adequate reimbursement from third-party payors and adequate market share and revenue for any approved products;

 

   

patients’ willingness to pay out-of-pocket for any approved products in the absence of coverage and/or adequate reimbursement from third-party payors;

 

   

costs associated with any products or technologies that we may in-license or acquire; and

 

   

delays or issues with any of the above, including the risk of each of which may be exacerbated by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Until such time, if ever, as we can generate substantial product revenues to support our cost structure, we expect to finance our cash needs through equity offerings, debt financings or other capital sources, including potential collaborations, licenses and other similar arrangements. However, we may be unable to raise additional funds or enter into such other arrangements when needed on favorable terms or at all. To the extent that we raise additional capital through the sale of equity or convertible debt securities, the ownership interest of our stockholders could be diluted, and the terms of these securities may include liquidation or other preferences that adversely affect the rights of our common stockholders. Debt financing and equity financing, if available, may involve agreements that include covenants limiting or restricting our ability to take specific actions, such as incurring additional debt, making capital expenditures or declaring dividends. If we raise funds through collaborations, or other similar arrangements with third parties, we may have to relinquish valuable rights to our technologies, future revenue streams, research programs or product candidates or grant licenses on terms that may not be favorable to us and/or may reduce the value of our common stock. If we are unable to raise additional funds through equity or debt financings when needed, we may be required to delay, limit, reduce or terminate our product development or future commercialization efforts or grant rights to develop and market our product candidates even if we would otherwise prefer to develop and market such product candidates ourselves.

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

In November 2018, we entered into an operating lease agreement for corporate office space in Carlsbad, California. Remaining lease payments were approximately $0.1 million and $50,000 at December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021, respectively, with a lease expiration of November 2021. This lease represented our primary outstanding contractual obligation at December 31, 2020.

In August 2020, we entered into a lease agreement for corporate office and laboratory space in Carlsbad, California or the Carlsbad Lease. As of June 30, 2021, the underlying asset was made available for use by us and therefore, the Carlsbad Lease is considered to have commenced. As of June 30, 2021, the remaining lease payments are approximately $1.4 million. The lease has a lease term of 60 months from the contractual lease commencement date. We have the option to renew the lease for two additional thirty-six-month periods.

 

94


Table of Contents

The following table summarizes our contractual obligations and commitments as of June 30, 2021 (in thousands):

 

     Payments Due by Period  
     Total      Remainder of
2021
     2022-2023      2024-2025      Thereafter  

Operating lease obligations

   $ 1,507      $ 117      $ 576      $ 626      $ 188  

We enter into contracts in the normal course of business for contract research services, professional services and other services and products for operating purposes. These contracts generally provide for termination after a notice period, and, therefore, are cancelable contracts and not separately presented.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

During the periods presented, we did not have, nor do we currently have, any off-balance sheet arrangements, as defined in the rules and regulations of the SEC.

Critical Accounting Policies, Significant Judgments, and Use of Estimates

Our management’s discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based on our financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities in our financial statements. We base our estimates and assumptions on historical experience and other factors that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. We evaluate our estimates and judgments on an ongoing basis. We base our estimates on historical experience, known trends and events, and on various other factors that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Our actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

While our significant accounting policies are described in more detail in Note 2 to our financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus, we believe the following accounting policies and estimates to be most critical to the preparation of our financial statements.

Accrued Research and Development Expense

We are required to estimate our expenses resulting from obligations under contracts with vendors, and consultants, in connection with conducting research and development activities. The financial terms of these contracts are subject to negotiations, which vary from contract to contract and may result in payment flows that do not match the periods over which materials or services are provided under such contracts. We reflect research and development expenses in our financial statements by matching those expenses with the period in which services and efforts are expended. We account for these expenses according to the progress of the preclinical study, as measured by the timing of various aspects of the study or related activities. We determine accrual estimates through review of the underlying contracts along with preparation of financial models taking into account discussions with research and other key personnel as to the progress of studies, or other services being conducted. During the course of a study, we adjust our rate of expense recognition if actual results differ from our estimates.

Although we do not expect our estimates to be materially different from amounts actually incurred, if our estimates of the status and timing of services performed differ from the actual status and timing of services performed, it could result in us reporting amounts that are too high or too low in any particular period. To date, there have been no material differences between our estimates of such expenses and the amounts actually incurred.

 

95


Table of Contents

Fair Value of SAFEs

Our SAFEs were accounted for at fair value and revalued at each reporting period with changes in the fair value of the liabilities recorded as a component of other expense in the statements of operations and comprehensive loss. There are significant judgments and estimates inherent in the determination of the fair value of the liability. If we had made different assumptions including, among others, those related to the timing and probability of various financing scenarios, discount rates, volatilities and exit valuations, the carrying values of our SAFEs, and our net loss and net loss per share of common stock could have been significantly different. Our SAFEs converted to shares of our Series A convertible preferred stock on January 6, 2020 and therefore no longer require fair value accounting.

Stock-Based Compensation

We recognize stock-based compensation expense for all stock-based awards made to employees and consultants based on estimated grant date fair values. We use the straight-line method to allocate compensation costs over the requisite service period. We estimate the fair value of stock options at the grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The Black-Scholes option-pricing model requires the input of subjective assumptions, including the fair value of common stock, expected term, expected volatility, risk-free interest rate, and expected dividend yield, which are described in greater detail below. We recognize actual forfeitures by reducing the stock-based compensation expense in the same period as the forfeiture occurs.

See Note 7 to our financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus for information concerning certain of the specific assumptions we used in applying the Black-Scholes option-pricing model to determine the estimated fair value of stock options granted.

Stock-based compensation expense was $0 and $0.4 million during the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, respectively, and $0.2 million and $0.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021, respectively. As of June 30, 2021, there was $4.6 million of total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to outstanding employee and nonemployee options which we expect to recognize over a weighted-average period of 3.6 years.

The intrinsic value of all outstanding options as of June 30, 2021 was $                million based on an assumed initial public offering price of $                per share, which is the midpoint of the price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus, of which approximately $                million was related to vested options and approximately $                million was related to unvested options.

Determination of Fair Value of Common Stock

As there has been no public market for our common stock to date, the estimated fair value of our common stock has been determined by our board of directors as of the date of each option grant, with input from management, considering contemporaneous independent third-party valuations of common stock, and our board of directors’ assessment of additional objective and subjective factors that it believed were relevant and which may have changed from the date of the most recent valuation through the date of the grant, including: the prices at which we sold shares of our convertible preferred stock to outside investors in arms-length transactions, and the superior rights, preferences and privileges of the preferred stock relative to the common stock at the time of each grant; the progress of the our company’s research and development programs, including their stages of development, and the our company’s business strategy; external market and other conditions affecting the biotechnology industry, and trends within the biotechnology industry; the our company’s financial position, including cash on hand, and our historical and forecasted performance and operating results; the lack of an active public market for the our company’s common stock; the likelihood of achieving a liquidity event for the our company’s securityholders, such as an initial public offering or a sale of the company, taking into consideration prevailing market conditions; the hiring of key personnel and the experience of management; and the analysis of

 

96


Table of Contents

initial public offerings and the market performance of peer companies in the biopharmaceutical industry, as well as completed mergers and acquisitions of peer companies. These independent third-party valuations were performed in accordance with the guidance outlined in the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ Accounting and Valuation Guide, Valuation of Privately-Held-Company Equity Securities Issued as Compensation (Practice Aid). The methodology to determine the fair value of our common stock included estimating the fair value of the enterprise using a market approach, which estimates the fair value of a company by including an estimation of the value of the business based on guideline public companies under a number of different scenarios.

The Practice Aid identifies various available methods for allocating enterprise value across classes and series of capital stock to determine the estimated fair value of common stock at each valuation date. In accordance with the Practice Aid, we considered the following methods:

 

   

Option Pricing Method, or OPM. Under the OPM, shares are valued by creating a series of call options with exercise prices based on the liquidation preferences and conversion terms of each equity class. The estimated fair values of the preferred and common stock are inferred by analyzing these options. This method is appropriate to use when the range of possible future outcomes is so difficult to predict that estimates would be highly speculative, and dissolution or liquidation is not imminent.

 

   

Probability-Weighted Expected Return Method, or PWERM. The PWERM is a scenario-based analysis that estimates value per share based on the probability-weighted present value of expected future investment returns, considering each of the possible outcomes available to us, as well as the economic and control rights of each share class.

 

   

Hybrid Method. The hybrid method is a PWERM where the equity value in one or more scenarios is calculated using an OPM.

Based on our early stage of development, the difficulty in predicting the range of specific outcomes (and their likelihood) and other relevant factors, we determined that an OPM was the most appropriate method for allocating our enterprise value to determine the estimated fair value of our common stock for valuation dates prior to March 2021. For valuations performed after this date, we used the Hybrid Method which takes into account a PWERM or OPM depending on the scenario. In determining the estimated fair value of our common stock, our board of directors also considered the fact that our stockholders could not freely trade our common stock in the public markets. Accordingly, we applied discounts to reflect the lack of marketability of our common stock based on the weighted-average expected time to liquidity.

There are significant judgments and estimates inherent in the determination of the fair value of our common stock. These judgments and estimates include assumptions regarding our future operating performance, the time to completing an initial public offering or other liquidity event and the determination of the appropriate valuation methods. If we had made different assumptions, our stock-based compensation expense, net loss and net loss per share of common stock could have been significantly different.

Following the completion of this offering, our board of directors will determine the fair value of our common stock based on its closing price as reported on the date of grant on the primary stock exchange on which our common stock is traded.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

A description of recently issued accounting pronouncements that may potentially impact our financial position and results of operations is disclosed in Note 2 to our financial statements appearing elsewhere in this prospectus.

 

97


Table of Contents

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Interest Rate Risk

Our cash and cash equivalents consist of cash in readily available checking accounts and money market funds. As a result, the fair value of our portfolio is relatively insensitive to interest rate changes.

Foreign Currency Exchange Risk

Our expenses are generally denominated in U.S. dollars. However, we have entered into a limited number of contracts with vendors for research and development services that are denominated in foreign currencies. We are subject to foreign currency transaction gains or losses on our contracts denominated in foreign currencies. To date, foreign currency transaction gains and losses have not been material to our financial statements, and we have not had a formal hedging program with respect to foreign currency. A hypothetical 10% increase or decrease in exchange rates during any of the periods presented would not have had a material impact on our financial results.

Effects of Inflation

Inflation generally affects us by increasing our cost of labor and clinical trial costs. We do not believe that inflation has had a material effect on our financial results during the periods presented.

Emerging Growth Company and Smaller Reporting Company Status

We are an emerging growth company, as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012, or the JOBS Act. We will remain an emerging growth company until the earliest to occur of: (i) the last day of the fiscal year in which we have more than $1.07 billion in annual revenue; (ii) the date we qualify as a “large accelerated filer,” with at least $700 million of equity securities held by non-affiliates; (iii) the date on which we have issued more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt securities during the prior three-year period; and (iv) the last day of the fiscal year ending after the fifth anniversary of our initial public offering. As a result of this status, we have taken advantage of reduced reporting requirements in this prospectus and may elect to take advantage of other reduced reporting requirements in our future filings with the SEC. In particular, in this prospectus, we have provided only two years of audited financial statements and have not included all of the executive compensation related information that would be required if we were not an emerging growth company.

In addition, the JOBS Act provides that an emerging growth company can take advantage of an extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards, delaying the adoption of these accounting standards until they would apply to private companies. We have elected to use the extended transition period to enable us to comply with new or revised accounting standards that have different effective dates for public and private companies until the earlier of the date on which we (i) are no longer an emerging growth company and (ii) affirmatively and irrevocably opt out of the extended transition period provided in the JOBS Act. As a result, our financial statements may not be comparable to companies that comply with new or revised accounting pronouncements as of public company effective dates.

We are also a “smaller reporting company” meaning that the market value of our stock held by non-affiliates plus the proposed aggregate amount of gross proceeds to us as a result of this offering is less than $700 million and our annual revenue was less than $100 million during the most recently completed fiscal year. We may continue to be a smaller reporting company after this offering if either (i) the market value of our stock held by non-affiliates is less than $250 million or (ii) our annual revenue was less than $100 million during the most recently completed fiscal year and the market value of our stock held by non-affiliates is less than $700 million. If we are a smaller reporting company at the time we cease to be an emerging growth company, we may continue to rely on exemptions from certain disclosure requirements that are available to smaller reporting companies. Specifically, as a smaller reporting company we may choose to present only the two most recent fiscal years of audited financial statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and, similar to emerging growth companies, smaller reporting companies have reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation and other matters.

 

98


Table of Contents

BUSINESS

Overview

We are a precision oncology company focused on developing purpose-built therapies to overcome tumor resistance and improve outcomes for patients with cancer. The widespread availability of approved targeted oncology treatments, such as kinase inhibitors, has transformed the cancer treatment landscape. Despite the therapeutic benefit that targeted oncology treatments have created for some patients, the response rate and duration of efficacy is often limited by acquired drug resistance and other shortcomings of existing therapies. We are using our proprietary SNÅP platform, which is optimized to enable rapid and precise refinement of structural design through iterative molecular SNÅPshots, in order to generate next-generation product candidates that are specifically designed to address acquired drug resistance and provide alternative treatment options. We are initially focused on developing a pipeline of selective inhibitors of the Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor, or FGFR, family, which are altered in approximately 7% of all cancers. Our lead product candidate, TYRA-300, is designed to selectively inhibit FGFR3, with an initial focus on patients with bladder cancer. We anticipate filing an Investigational New Drug application, or IND, with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, or the FDA, for TYRA-300 in mid-2022. In addition, we have pipeline development programs targeting FGFR2-related cancers, FGFR3-related achondroplasia, REarranged during Transfection kinase, or RET, and FGFR4-related cancers.

Our SNÅP Platform

We developed our proprietary SNÅP platform to efficiently identify and selectively target vulnerabilities in the mutant proteins where genetic alterations have eliminated or reduced the effectiveness of targeted therapies. Through the rapid generation of precise molecular SNÅPshots, we continually gain deeper insights into the structure of inhibitor binding sites and how commonly occurring genetic alterations lead to acquired drug resistance to existing therapies. Leveraging these insights, we aim to predict the genetic alterations most likely to cause resistance to specific existing therapies and develop compound candidates with innovative structures that are designed to inhibit the target while avoiding those mutations. Through this process, we identify product candidates that may have the potency and selectivity to, if approved, be used as important treatment options to address critical unmet needs.

Our SNÅP platform is driven by our ability to rapidly and concurrently generate iterative data from the following three key pillars.

 

   

Protein crystallography. We have developed proprietary protein crystallography techniques that enable us to determine the co-crystal structures of newly synthesized compounds in target proteins in as little as three days. This enables weekly generation of detailed structural insights on the precise interactions and conformational changes that occur when our potential product candidates bind to a particular target, creating opportunities to further refine the structural design.

 

   

Cell-based assays. We assess inhibitor potency directly in in vitro target-specific anti-proliferation assays, in addition to enzymatic assays, to enable us to simultaneously understand target potency and cell penetration as well as target-specific cell killing. Our process allows us to generate data on newly synthesized compounds in as little as two days.

 

   

In vivo models. Our direct structural insights and in vitro datasets are complemented by in vivo pharmacologic data generated through in-house animal models that provide us with bioavailability, pharmacokinetic data and anti-tumor activity in as little as five days.

 

99


Table of Contents

LOGO

SNÅP platform

Together, these three pillars of our platform provide a molecular SNÅPshot for our compound candidates. At this time, we are able to generate a molecular SNÅPshot for a compound candidate within one week. We believe that a sharp focus on efficiently generating these three key empirical datasets for compound candidates enables us to balance speed with the robust identification of pivotal insights to rapidly and precisely iterate on the design of our novel molecular structures.

Our Programs

Below is an overview of our programs.

 

 

LOGO

 

100


Table of Contents

Our FGFR3 Program—TYRA-300

We are developing our lead product candidate, TYRA-300, a selective inhibitor of FGFR3, initially for the treatment of muscle invasive bladder cancer, or MIBC. One common mechanism of acquired drug resistance in kinases such as FGFR3 is the emergence of gatekeeper mutations. For example, the V555M and V555L gatekeeper mutations have been shown to block access to a portion of the binding pocket accessed by first generation FGFR compounds, such as Balversa® (erdafitinib), the only currently FDA approved FGFR3 inhibitor for MIBC, as well as Truseltiq® (infigratinib), an FGFR inhibitor recently approved for cholangiocarcinoma. Because we believe the gatekeeper mutation represents a key limitation to efficacy and durability of the therapeutic effect of first generation FGFR compounds, we have designed TYRA-300 to avoid interactions with the gatekeeper region of the inhibitor binding site. In cell-based assays and preclinical xenograft models, we observed that TYRA-300 had similar inhibition against both the wild-type and the gatekeeper mutations.

In addition to addressing the gatekeeper resistance mutations, we have designed TYRA-300 to be more selective for FGFR3 over FGFR1 to minimize off-target side effects, providing potential clinical advantages over less selective first generation compounds. For example, inhibition of FGFR1 is associated with a well-characterized adverse event, hyperphosphatemia, an electrolyte disorder characterized by an elevated level of phosphate in the blood, which is commonly observed in patients treated with these inhibitors, limiting their dosing.

We have designed TYRA-300 to be more selective for FGFR3 over FGFR1 in order to potentially reduce the need for dose modifications or interruptions due to hyperphosphatemia, which we believe will result in increased efficacy and improved clinical outcomes for patients with MIBC. We believe TYRA-300 has the potential to address additional indications such as non-muscle invasive bladder cancer, or NMIBC, as well as other FGFR3-driven indications demonstrating resistance to existing therapies or for which such therapies result in dose-limiting adverse events, such as hyperphosphatemia.

Our FGFR2 Program

Our second program is focused on the inhibition of FGFR2, initially for the treatment of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, or ICC, a cancer of the biliary ducts. Acquired resistance mutations, such as gatekeeper and molecular brake mutations, have been observed in patients treated with Pemazyre® (pemigatinib) and Truseltiq® (infigratinib), the two FDA approved FGFR inhibitors for ICC, and in other late stage clinical inhibitors, such as futibatinib. We are developing an inhibitor with the potential to address key resistance mutations, which we believe is necessary to address the problem of polyclonal resistance. We plan to nominate a product candidate by the end of 2021.

Our Achondroplasia, RET and FGFR4 Programs

Our pipeline also includes development programs targeting FGFR3-related achondroplasia as well as RET and FGFR4-related cancers. These programs are currently in early lead optimization stage. Our achondroplasia program is aimed at developing a potential treatment for pediatric patients, benefiting from our structural insights into the FGFR3 selectivity we have observed with TYRA-300. This genetic disorder is caused by a mutation in the FGFR3 gene. Our RET and FGFR4 programs are focused on overcoming acquired drug resistance mutations that are clinically observed to arise in response to marketed or clinical-stage drugs in RET- and FGFR4-related cancers.

Our Leadership Team and Investors

We are led by a team with extensive experience in drug discovery and development, with a particular focus on small molecule drug development. Todd Harris, Ph.D., our co-founder and Chief Executive Officer,

 

101


Table of Contents

previously founded and served as Chief Executive Officer of Sienna Labs. Daniel Bensen, our co-founder and Chief Operating Officer, is a structural biologist and protein chemist with over 20 years of experience, most recently at Cidara Therapeutics and Trius Therapeutics. Robert Hudkins, Ph.D., our Chief Technical Officer, has over 34 years of oncology and neuroscience medicinal chemistry experience, including 26 years at Cephalon and Teva, where he was an inventor and team leader advancing new chemical entities into clinical development. Ronald Swanson, Ph.D., our Chief Scientific Officer, has over 25 years of biotechnology and pharmaceutical experience, most recently at Janssen. Hiroomi Tada, M.D., Ph.D., our Chief Medical Officer, was a clinical lead for the development of a portfolio of therapies at Incyte, GlaxoSmithKline and AstraZeneca. Our Chief Development Officer, Piyush Patel, Ph.D., with nearly three decades of experience, previously served as Chief Scientific Officer at CinRx and led drug formulation, clinical manufacturing and process development at Cephalon and Teva.

To date, we have raised $157.2 million from leading investors in the life sciences industry. Investors with 5% or greater ownership are Alta Partners, Boxer Capital of Tavistock Group, Canaan, Nextech Invest and RA Capital.

Our Strategy

At Tyra, we do not accept that cancer patients with acquired drug resistance should be left with the devastating reality of limited or no treatment options. Our vision is to become a leading precision medicine company utilizing our unique approach to designing and developing purpose-built therapies to overcome acquired drug resistance in tumors and provide treatment options to these patients who have limited or no options. Key elements of our strategy to achieve our vision are as follows.

 

   

Advance product candidates for acquired drug resistance mutations in FGFR3 and FGFR2 through clinical development and regulatory approval. We are developing our next-generation precision oncology programs with a goal of overcoming the tumor alterations in FGFR3 and FGFR2-driven cancers that result in resistance and reduction of therapeutic effect of first generation FGFR treatments. We are initially developing product candidates for patients with MIBC and ICC who have developed resistance to FGFR inhibitors. We believe this differentiation will enable us to expand into multiple cohorts of FGFR2/3-driven cancer including patients naïve to FGFR inhibitors, tumor agnostic populations, as well as patients with other tumors driven by FGFR2/3 alterations. We anticipate filing an IND for our lead product candidate TYRA-300 in mid-2022.

 

   

Harness the strength of our SNÅP platform to rapidly develop additional next-generation precision therapies. We believe our SNÅP platform has disrupted the conventional process used to discover differentiated product candidates, resulting in what we believe is a significantly condensed time frame. Leveraging our SNÅP platform, we have rapidly developed an expanding pipeline of product candidates since our founding in August 2018. Although our initial focus has been on a specific set of drug targets, our SNÅP platform can be extended to multiple gene families and therapeutic areas. We plan to leverage our SNÅP platform to expand our pipeline with additional oncology and non-oncology indications where there is high unmet need, with an initial focus on our three discovery stage programs in FGFR3-related achondroplasia and RET- and FGFR4-related cancers.

 

   

Leverage the recent advances in the precision oncology landscape to potentially expedite our product candidates’ development. There have been multiple recent accelerated approvals by the FDA of targeted therapies on the basis of compelling clinical outcomes from single-arm dose expansion cohort clinical trials. Recent accelerated approvals have been conditionally granted in as little as three years from initial clinical testing. Although the exact clinical development and regulatory path for our product candidates has not been defined, subject to consultation with the FDA, we intend to leverage the precedent pathways used by recently approved precision oncology drugs to inform our clinical and regulatory decisions and pathway to potentially seek expedited regulatory approval, if we are successful in the clinical development, of one or more of our product candidates. However, we have not filed an IND for any of our product candidates, nor have we applied for accelerated approval by the FDA, and as a result, there can be no assurance that an

 

102


Table of Contents
 

accelerated pathway will be available for us or that it will lead to a faster development process or a faster regulatory review. While an accelerated pathway may potentially expedite development or the approval process, it does not change the FDA’s standards of approval or increase the likelihood that a product candidate will receive approval. In addition, advances in next-generation genomic sequencing continue to help physicians and their patients identify the mutations responsible for their cancer. We believe this may assist us in identifying and enrolling patients, thereby allowing us to accelerate the development timeline of our product candidates.

 

   

Maximize the value of our product candidates across multiple therapeutic areas through accelerated development and potential partnerships. We believe that our ability to generate product candidates with improved selectivity for the target of interest enables the possibility of designing and developing product candidates for indications outside of oncology. Specifically, we believe we can apply our SNÅP platform to targets, such as FGFR3, that have data validating their role in the pathogenesis of diseases, including achondroplasia and other skeletal diseases. We currently retain worldwide rights to all of our product candidates. We will consider entering into compound, target or geographic specific strategic partnerships on an opportunistic basis, especially for programs outside of oncology, if we believe that such a partnership can accelerate the development and/or maximize the market potential of a product candidate.

Background

Protein kinase inhibitors in cancer and the challenge posed by acquired drug resistance

Receptor tyrosine kinases, or RTKs, are a family of proteins that respond to external growth factors affecting cell proliferation. In cancer, RTKs can be constitutively activated though gain-of-function mutations or gene rearrangements, driving tumor growth. Protein kinase inhibitors are a class of targeted therapies that can effectively block protein kinase signaling and cause tumor regression. These targeted therapies have delivered profound therapeutic benefits in the treatment of cancer. As of 2020, there were 55 FDA-approved protein kinase inhibitors for the treatment of cancer, targeting about two dozen different protein kinases. Despite the success of these drugs, they have been susceptible to acquired drug resistance and reduction of effect, leaving patients with limited or no treatment options. In particular, these current or first generation kinase inhibitors lose potency in response to mutations that prevent the drug from binding to the target protein, allowing the kinase to continue to function resulting in continued tumor growth. This mutation, and resulting loss of potency from these kinase inhibitors, results in the patient’s cancer becoming refractory to treatment and the patient regressing.

 

LOGO

Overview of RTK activating mutations and acquired drug resistance mutations

 

103


Table of Contents

Development of acquired drug resistance to kinase inhibitors is common among protein kinases. Acquired on-target resistance has emerged in nearly every validated target, including FGFR, RET, epidermal growth factor receptor, or EGFR, anaplastic lymphoma kinase, or ALK, KIT, neurotrophic tropomyosin receptor kinase, or NTRK, ROS1 and mesenchymal epithelial transition factor, or MET. These key resistance mutations can be generally grouped into four classes:

 

   

Gatekeeper. Mutations such as BCR-ABL T315I and EGFR T790M are known as gatekeeper mutations because they are found at a key location at the entrance to a hydrophobic pocket in the back of the adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, binding site that many kinase inhibitors access to increase potency and obtain specificity.

 

   

Molecular brake. Activating mutations in the kinase domain of RTKs are associated with the development of many forms of cancer. A number of these mutations cluster in a hinge region of the kinase structure, resulting in kinase activation by disengaging a highly conserved region referred to as a molecular brake.

 

   

Cys mutant. Irreversible kinase inhibitors, such as Tagrisso® (osimertinib), typically covalently attach to cysteine residues in the kinase active site. EGFR C797S and corresponding mutations in cysteine residues of other kinases prevent binding and block the activity of these inhibitors.

 

   

Solvent front. Certain kinase inhibitors obtain their specificity by interacting with amino acid residues located at the opening of the ATP binding site to solvent. Mutations in these residues that lead to drug resistance are referred to as solvent front mutations.

The rapid rise of mutations that enable tumors to become resistant to previous generations of kinase inhibitors poses a challenge to drug developers, one that we believe will demand innovation for a long time to come.

Commercial success of next-generation kinase inhibitors

Osimertinib is an example of how a next-generation kinase inhibitor can not only overcome the limitations of acquired drug resistance to first generation therapies, but also demonstrate broader applicability across different lines of therapies. While first generation epidermal growth factor receptor, or EGFR, inhibitors, such as Iressa® (gefitinib) and Tarceva® (erlotinib), led to significant improvements in tolerability compared to standard of care chemotherapy, on average, tumor responses last only six to twelve months before disease progression. About 50% of treated patients developed drug resistance due to a gatekeeper mutation at T790M. Osimertinib’s ability to overcome this key gatekeeper mutation, which limited the duration of efficacy of first generation EGFR inhibitors has contributed to osimertinib realizing sales of double the amount of the peak sales achieved by the two first generation inhibitors in 2013. In addition to its ability to overcome the gatekeeper mutation, osimertinib also displayed higher mutant selectivity and other performance enhancements resulting in greater tolerability, safety and efficacy. When used earlier in treatment, osimertinib nearly doubled progression-free survival compared to gefitinib or erlotinib with a better overall safety profile.

 

 

104


Table of Contents

LOGO

Illustration of osimertinib overcoming gatekeeper mutations

FGFR gene alterations and cancer

The FGFR family consists of four highly conserved RTKs, FGFR1-4. These receptors regulate a variety of cellular functions, including proliferation, differentiation and survival. Genomic alterations in FGFR family members occur in approximately 7% of all human cancers, representing about 126,000 new cases a year. These genomic alterations, many of which lead to increased FGFR activity, have been found in cancers throughout the body, as shown in the figure below. The highest FGFR alteration frequencies are seen in urothelial cancer, ICC, endometrial cancer, lung cancers, breast cancer and cervical cancer.

 

LOGO

Alterations in FGFR are found in cancers throughout the body

Three FGFR targeted therapies have been approved by the FDA: erdafitinib for locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma, or bladder cancer, and pemigatinib and infigratinib for FGFR2-fusion positive ICC. These inhibitors have demonstrated clinical benefit, however response rates and duration of response are limited. While patients may initially respond to FGFR targeted therapies, many develop acquired drug resistance, ultimately resulting in disease progression and discontinuation of therapy. Decreased activity of erdafitinib and pemigatinib due to resistance mutations that alter their ability to bind to the active site, such as gatekeeper mutations, has been observed. Gatekeeper mutations have also been seen in patients in a clinical trial treated with infigratinib while acquired-resistance molecular brake mutations have been seen in patients in clinical trials of both pemigatinib and infigratinib.

 

105


Table of Contents

Our Approach and Solution

Our SNÅP platform

We developed our proprietary SNÅP platform to efficiently identify and selectively target vulnerabilities in the mutant proteins where genetic alterations have eliminated or reduced the effectiveness of current targeted therapies. Our SNÅP platform is driven by our ability to rapidly and concurrently generate iterative data from three key pillars. Rapid generation of crystallographic data, use of custom cell-based assays and in vivo models comprise the three pillars of our platform. We leverage our platform to identify and develop product candidates that may have the potency and selectivity to address the liabilities that acquired drug resistance has created for other therapies. Collectively, our efforts to optimize and integrate these three pillars in parallel have enabled us to condense our design cycles and more quickly develop high quality, differentiated product candidates.

Rapid generation of crystallographic data

We have streamlined the use of protein crystallography for visualizing the interaction of our potential product candidates with binding pockets of protein kinases. Through our proprietary methods, we can rapidly induce crystal formation and enhance crystal durability. Together, this reduces the time required to generate new crystal structures. We routinely generate co-crystal structures on newly synthesized compounds in as little as three days, a pace that allows us to continually refresh and, we believe, improve our insights into the features and structures that enable us to discover compounds that are potent and selective inhibitors of our targets. In the last year alone, we generated over 120 crystal structures. The rapid and iterative nature of our proprietary approach also allows us to address known mutations and potentially avoid future mutations.

While conventional discovery approaches prioritize computational simulations based on a small number of structures or structural models, we believe the ability to generate a large amount of empirical data obtained from many protein crystal structures is more informative and allows us to better design our product candidates. We are able to sustain rapid crystallography throughput, enabling the generation of graphical images of protein structures with and without bound inhibitors that, when combined with enzyme, cell and in vivo assays, comprise molecular SNÅPshots. These structures show the exact binding conformation of small molecules to our protein targets as well as the variations in protein structure that they induce at a resolution down to a single tenth of an angstrom (Å). We iterate rapidly between the wet lab and the crystallography lab and believe that the resulting datasets provide us with robust empirical data more quickly relative to conventional approaches as we seek innovative compounds that can potentially overcome acquired drug resistance seen with other kinase inhibitors.

 

106


Table of Contents

LOGO

We capture variations in ligand-protein interactions by generating molecular SNÅPshots of many ligands

This figure shows several structures of the same protein, which has been co-crystallized with different inhibitors. Certain regions of the protein, shown as dark gray loops, assume different conformations in the presence of different ligands. The plasticity of the protein revealed by these structures informs our drug design.

Custom cell-based assays

Determining the potency, selectively and cytotoxicity of our compounds early through custom cell-based assays allows us to rapidly evaluate, design and optimize our potential product candidates. The cell-based assays we use are a combination of cell lines derived from naturally occurring tumors and treatment-resistant tumors as well as engineered cell lines in which specific kinases or kinase mutations are introduced to create panels of isogenic cells. By providing direct evidence of cell penetration and target engagement, we believe these assays yield more meaningful information about the potential of our compounds compared to the artificial system of purified proteins used in standard enzymological screens. While we also assess the potency and selectivity of our compounds using enzyme assays, these assays primarily serve to provide concordance to the validity of our cell-based assays. As a result, these cellular systems are our primary screening tools to progress our potential product candidates. We are able to run newly synthesized compounds through these cell-based assays in as little as two days, helping to drive a rapid, iterative drug design cycle.

In vivo models

The ability to rapidly assess the potential of our compounds through in vivo models to determine their pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic parameters in addition to their target-specific antitumor activity is paramount. We establish and validate the majority of our models in-house, which allows us to rapidly test new compounds and to collect actionable data in as little as five days. We feed this information back into our design cycle, allowing us to condense the traditional drug discovery timeline, prior to commencing clinical development.

A tight compound design, synthesis and testing loop

Our philosophy is to execute activities such as obtaining crystal structures, assaying for cellular activity and generating in vivo data not as a set of sequential steps, but rather in concurrence in order to save time. Whereas more traditional drug discovery efforts may rely upon the availability of crystallographic and in vivo model data at monthly intervals, we strive to generate this data on a weekly basis. We do not wait to determine if a compound passes a potency test in a cell-based assay before evaluating it in other assays, with the explicit understanding that there is key knowledge to be gained from compounds that are not as potent as expected.

 

107


Table of Contents

LOGO

Our synchronized and compressed data generation cycle time allows us to accelerate drug discovery by allowing the execution of more drug design cycles in a fixed amount of time

Our ever-growing understanding of protein and inhibitor interactions, deepened by the crystal structures we continue to generate, provides insights that we leverage in product candidate engineering. We combine these potency and selectivity predictions with metabolic stability, bioavailability and pharmacokinetics data to design small molecules with the chemical properties required to become potential product candidates. In a single weekly drug discovery cycle, we profile newly synthesized compounds as follows.

 

  1)

Generating a crystal structure with a target protein in as little as three days.

 

  2)

Evaluating activity in ‘on-target’ and ‘off-target’ cell-based assays in as little as two days.

 

  3)

Measuring tumor growth inhibition, or TGI, of newly synthesized compounds in as little as five days.

Taken together, the high-resolution structural data and preclinical experiments inform new chemistry designs that are rapidly synthesized for evaluation in our next weekly drug discovery cycle. This process, enabled by trade-secrets and proprietary engineered assays, comprises our SNÅP platform. Our highly experienced team of medicinal chemists efficiently utilizes our platform to rapidly synthesize compounds designed to further optimize potency and selectivity, among other properties, while avoiding interactions with mutations which are known to induce drug resistance to other kinase inhibitors.

 

108


Table of Contents

LOGO

SNÅP platform

Targeted Oncology

Targeted oncology therapies approved by the FDA in the past three years have received their initial approvals in as little as three years after their first-in-human dosing began. FDA guidance notes that the agency has at times accepted data from single-arm clinical trials as substantial evidence for accelerated approvals of oncology therapies. Based on these precedents, subject to consultation with the FDA, we believe that our product candidates may be eligible for accelerated approval by the FDA should they demonstrate appropriate safety and efficacy in our clinical trials. However, we have not filed an IND for any of our product candidates, nor have we applied for accelerated approval by the FDA, and as a result, there can be no assurance that an accelerated pathway will be available for us or that it will lead to a faster development process or a faster regulatory review. While an accelerated pathway may potentially expedite development or the approval process, it does not change the FDA’s standards of approval or increase the likelihood that a product candidate will receive approval.

 

109


Table of Contents

LOGO

Approval of targeted oncology therapies in the past three years has been granted in as little as three years from initial testing in the clinic

Our FGFR3 Program—TYRA-300 Program

We are developing TYRA-300, a selective inhibitor of FGFR3, for the treatment of FGFR3-driven cancers initially for patients with bladder cancer who are resistant to FGFR therapies. Resistance to approved and investigational FGFR inhibitors has been shown to arise due to mutations in the gatekeeper region of FGFR3. We have designed TYRA-300 to avoid this region of FGFR3 and, in preclinical models to date, TYRA-300 has demonstrated similar potency against both wild-type and resistant FGFR3 targets. We believe this differentiation will enable us to expand into multiple cohorts of FGFR3-driven cancer including patients naïve to FGFR therapy, tumor agnostic populations, as well as patients with high-risk NMIBC. Although no head-to-head clinical trials have been conducted, we believe the use of comparative in vitro and in vivo data from pre-clinical studies provides meaningful insight into the potential for our product candidates to improve on certain characteristics of approved and investigational FGFR inhibitors, and helps inform potential future clinical development of our product candidates. We anticipate filing an IND for TYRA-300 with the FDA in mid-2022.

Market Opportunity

Bladder cancer disease background

Bladder cancer is one of the most common malignancies involving the genitourinary system. Patients with bladder cancer classically present with painless blood in the urine. However, because this symptom is similar to those of benign disorders, such as urinary tract infections, cystitis, prostatitis and the passage of kidney stones, diagnosis of bladder cancer can take time as these other, more common, conditions are ruled out. Delays in diagnosis can lead to worsened outcomes due to the presence of more advanced stage disease by the time a diagnosis of bladder cancer is made.

An estimated 83,730 new cases of bladder cancer and 17,200 deaths are projected for 2021 in the United States. Globally, bladder cancer accounted for approximately 550,000 cases and 200,000 deaths in 2018. Bladder cancer is classified into two broad categories: NMIBC where the cancer is restricted to surface lining of the bladder; and MIBC, which is a cancer that has grown deeper into the bladder wall and has a higher potential to

 

110


Table of Contents

spread beyond the bladder. Approximately 30% of newly diagnosed cases of bladder cancer are MIBC. Of the remaining 70% of new diagnoses of bladder cancer that are NMIBC cases, an estimated 10 to 15% progress to MIBC. Whereas the five-year survival for early stage NMIBC is 96%, it falls to 6.4% for metastatic MIBC.

FGFR3 is a protein receptor expressed on the cell surface that stimulates cellular proliferation upon binding of fibroblast growth factor. Uncontrolled activation of FGFR3 has been implicated in the oncogenesis of multiple solid tumor types. The incidence of activating FGFR3 mutations in bladder cancer has been estimated to be as high as 75% in NMIBCs and up to 20% of MIBC making FGFR3 an attractive target for development.

Limitations of current therapies

Standard of care and current limitations for the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic MIBC

Patients suffering from locally advanced or metastatic MIBC have limited treatment options and there continues to be a high unmet need. These options come with significant toxicities, lack of durable response and potential diminished quality of life. The initial standard treatment for patients is typically platinum-based chemotherapy with cisplatin (or carboplatin) in combination with gemcitabine. Unfortunately, the median overall survival for patients treated with chemotherapy is only 12.7 months. Following chemotherapy, patients may receive immunotherapies, such as Bavencio® (avelumab) as maintenance therapy or Keytruda® (pembrolizumab) after progression on chemotherapy. Responses to immunotherapy are limited and overall survival for immunotherapy is 10.3 months on average. Alternatively, patients may also receive other chemotherapies, such as Taxotere® (docetaxel), Taxol® (paclitaxel), or Javlor® (vinflunine) alone, however overall survival is typically no greater than 7 to 9 months in select patients. Recent Phase 3 data demonstrated that the antibody-drug conjugate Padcev® (enfortumab vendotin) improved overall survival to 12.8 months compared to chemotherapy following disease progression after initial chemotherapy and immunotherapy. The relativity low overall survival data comes with significant toxicities and we believe highlights the unmet need for therapies with greater efficacy and tolerability.

Standard of care and current limitations for the treatment of localized MIBC

Patients suffering from localized MIBC are potentially curable with surgery, which may include trans-urethral resection, or TURBT, partial cystectomy (partial removal of the bladder), or radical cystectomy (complete removal of the bladder and nearby lymph nodes) depending on the stage of the tumor. For those who are not physically able or willing to undergo surgery, localized radiation to the bladder is an option, but local recurrence rates are high, survival rates are no better than surgery, and few contemporary randomized studies have been performed comparing radiation and surgery in the same population of patients. TURBT and partial cystectomy are reserved for highly selected patients with earlier stage tumors, often combined with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy for those who are willing and able to tolerate such aggressive therapy. Despite these strict criteria, recurrence rates are high as high as 60% in some series. For the majority of patients who can have surgery, complete removal of the bladder and lymph nodes remains the only potentially curative treatment option. However, despite such a life altering operation, recurrence of metastatic disease is estimated to be 50%, highlighting the need for adjuvant therapies that can decrease the risk of recurrence. There are no currently approved therapies for the adjuvant treatment of patients following surgery for bladder cancer, though a number of immunotherapies are being studied in this setting. We believe that effective therapies that can reduce the rate of recurrence following surgery remains a high unmet need.

Standard of care and current limitations for the treatment of NMIBC

NMIBC comprises the largest population of bladder cancer patients, representing 70-75% of cases diagnosed annually in the United States. Initial evaluation consists of local resection to confirm the diagnosis and establish the grade and stage of the tumor. The majority of cases are low grade lesions confined to the lining of the bladder. However, a significant proportion are considered high risk for recurrence. Treatment of NMIBC is directed at reducing recurrences and preventing progression to a more advanced stage. For low grade lesions,

 

111


Table of Contents

local resection with or without adjuvant Bacillus Calmette-Guerin, or BCG, and close follow up are usually successful in curing the disease, whereas high risk lesions should be treated with either adjuvant BCG or radical cystectomy. Recurrence overall for NMIBC is 30-70%, but for high risk patients, 5-year recurrence rates are as high as 80%, with progression to muscle invasive disease in up to 50% of patients. An additional 10-15% will recur with metastatic disease. Following recurrence of NMIBC, few bladder-sparing options are available to prevent future recurrences and disease progression. Those with NMIBC that recurs following BCG and are unable or refuse surgery may be treated with pembrolizumab, which was approved based on a complete response rate of 41% and a median duration of response of 16.2 months, highlighting the need for the majority of patients for additional treatment options.

FGFR Inhibitors

Patients with genetic alterations in FGFR3 can be treated with FGFR inhibitors. Currently, the only FDA approved FGFR inhibitor for locally advanced or metastatic MIBC is erdafitinib, which received accelerated approval in the United States in 2019. In clinical trials, erdafitinib demonstrated a 32.2% overall response rate and a median duration of response of 5.4 months. We believe one of the key limitations to erdafitinib’s duration of response is the emergence of mutations like the gatekeeper mutation. In addition, this mutation may impact the efficacy of other first generation FGFR inhibitors such as infigratinib, pemigatinib and futibatinib. In a study of infigratinib and other FGFR inhibitors, the mutation that has been described in patients is the valine to methionine gatekeeper mutation at the V555 position of FGFR3, which results in a significant shift in potency of all of the first generation FGFR inhibitors. Once patients progress due to acquired drug resistance, there are very few options available, representing a significant unmet need in this patient population.

 

LOGO

FGFR gatekeeper mutations block binding, resulting in a loss of potency in first generation FGFR inhibitors such as erdafitinib

Erdafitinib is a pan-FGFR inhibitor and due to its lack of selectivity there may be toxicities associated with the inhibition of FGFR receptors 1, 2 and 4. FGFR1 is expressed in kidney cells where it regulates phosphate and calcium reabsorption, and inhibition of FGFR1 results in hyperphosphatemia. Hyperphosphatemia was the dose-limiting toxicity and was reported in over 70% of patients in a clinical trial of erdafitinib. Hyperphosphatemia and other toxicities contributed to interruptions in 68% of patients and dose reductions in 53% of patients. We believe this is a key limitation of erdafitinib’s efficacy. A similarly high rate of FGFR-related toxicities has been reported in clinical trials of other non-isoform selective FGFR inhibitors including pemigatinib, infigratinib and futibatinib.

Approximately 60-80% of NMIBC has been shown to carry FGFR3 gene alterations, the majority of which are activating point mutations. There are currently no approved therapies for FGFR3-driven NMIBC

 

112


Table of Contents

patients who have recurred following adjuvant BCG therapy. FGFR inhibitors have the potential to be highly efficacious in NMIBC, as demonstrated by three complete responses in four clinical trial patients with NMIBC treated with infigratinib. However, toxicities associated with this pan-FGFR inhibitor in that trial resulted in poor tolerability and limited treatment duration, and the trial was terminated early. We believe a highly specific FGFR3-directed inhibitor, with minimal effects from other FGFR-related toxicities, could be highly efficacious and represents an attractive future market opportunity for our product candidate.

We believe the limitations of current standard of care therapies, as well as the liabilities of first generation FGFR inhibitors, necessitates a solution that can address this unmet need and improve patient outcomes.

Our solution, TYRA-300

In preclinical models to date, TYRA-300 has demonstrated potency against the gatekeeper mutation and selectivity for FGFR3. Although no head-to-head clinical studies have been conducted, we believe that these pre-clinical studies assist with the characterization of our product candidates and inform future clinical development.

TYRA-300 is active in a bladder cancer xenograft model

UM-UC-14 is a human bladder cancer cell line which contains an FGFR3 S249C activating mutation. TYRA-300 was tested in a preclinical mouse xenograft model using this cell line, as seen in the figure below. TYRA-300 given either once daily, or QD, at a dose of 18 mg/kg or twice daily, or BID, at a dose of 9 mg/kg led to substantial inhibition of tumor growth in this model. We observed 90% tumor growth inhibition, or TGI, at the 9 mg/kg BID dose and 96% TGI at the 18 mg/kg QD dose. We observed 91% TGI with erdafitinib using a 12.5 mg/kg BID dose in this study.

 

113


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

TYRA-300 tumor growth inhibition in a UM-UC-14 xenograft model

Antitumor activity in the FGFR3 S249C activating mutant UM-UC-14 bladder cancer xenograft model in nu/nu mice of various doses of TYRA-300 (3, 6, and 9 mg/kg BID, upper left; and 6, 12, and 18 mg/kg QD, lower left) and erdafitinib (12.5 mg/kg BID) shown in both the upper and lower left. Body weight averages for the dose groups depicted in the upper and lower left are shown in the upper and lower right, respectively. All doses were by oral administration. No TGI was observed for TYRA-300 at 3 mg/kg BID. TGI observed for the other TYRA-300 doses is shown in parentheses; 6 mg/kg BID (53%), 9 mg/kg BID ( 90%), 6 mg/kg QD (46%), 12 mg/kg QD (80%), and 18 mg/kg QD (96%). We observed 91% TGI for 12.5 mg/kg BID erdafitinib. Data points represent mean tumor volume (n=6 per group except 6 mg/kg BID TYRA-300 dosing group where one animal was found dead at day 7 of treatment where n=5) and error bars represent standard error of the mean.

In this model, we used a salt form of TYRA-300, and the vehicle is 30% hydroxypropyl beta cyclodextrin, or HP-ß-CD, for both the erdafitinib and TYRA-300 groups. Based on the results of this study, we expect to use a salt form of TYRA-300 for future TYRA-300 development. The salt form/cyclodextrin formulation used here replaces the polyethylene glycol 400 formulation we used in the bladder cancer xenograft model utilizing the RT112/84 +/- V555M immortalized cancer cell line, as described further on page 116 below.

Potent inhibition of FGFR3 mutants including gatekeeper mutations

We utilized our SNÅP platform to design TYRA-300 to avoid any interactions with the gatekeeper region of FGFR3, which most other FGFR kinase inhibitors rely on for potency. In a bladder cancer xenograft model, we observed that we could obtain FGFR3 potency roughly equivalent to that of erdafitinib, by targeting other parts of the kinase active site. Although no head-to-head clinical studies have been conducted, this design strategy provides what we believe is a key advantage in that FGFR3 proteins containing gatekeeper mutations, such as V555M, were inhibited by TYRA-300 with very similar potency to wild-type FGFR3. Other FGFR inhibitors were at least 30-fold less potent versus FGFR3 V555M.

 

114


Table of Contents

LOGO

TYRA-300 retained potency against multiple potential acquired drug resistance mutations in FGFR3

 

LOGO

TYRA-300 retained potency in a V555M CRISPR mutated RT112/84 immortalized cancer cell line

The ability of TYRA-300 to maintain potency against the V555M gatekeeper mutation, as observed in in vitro assays conducted to date, was tested in a preclinical xenograft model containing an FGFR3 fusion, as seen in the figure below. TYRA-300, at a dose of 12.5 mg/kg twice daily, led to significant inhibition of tumor growth in this model. We also observed inhibition of tumor growth by erdafitinib at a dose of 12.5 mg/kg twice daily in this model. We engineered a gatekeeper mutation into the cell line used for this model. We observed 77% inhibition of tumor growth by TYRA-300 in xenografts using the cell line containing the gatekeeper mutation, while we observed 12% tumor growth inhibition in the gatekeeper xenograft treated with erdafitinib.

 

115


Table of Contents

LOGO

TYRA-300 tumor growth inhibition was maintained in the presence of the FGFR3 V555M gatekeeper mutation in a RT112/84 xenograft model

Anti-tumor activity of TYRA-300 (95% TGI, upper left) and erdafitinib (73% TGI, lower left) dosed twice daily, or BID, by oral administration in the FGFR3::TACC3 fusion activating RT112/84 bladder cancer xenograft model in Balb/c nude mice. Data points represent mean tumor volume (n=8 per group on left, n=6 per group on right) and error bars represent standard error of the mean. To test the effect of the gatekeeper mutation on tumor growth inhibition, we introduced the V555M mutation into the FGFR3::TACC3 fusion gene in the RT112/84 cell line using CRISPR. Anti-tumor activity in this isogenic gatekeeper containing model was evaluated using TYRA-300 (77% TGI, upper right) and erdafitinib (12% TGI, lower right) dosed BID by oral administration. The erdafitinib delivery vehicle in this experiment is 20% hydroxypropyl beta cyclodextrin and the TYRA-300 delivery vehicle is polyethylene glycol 400.

High selectivity for FGFR3

Designing inhibitors that bind to the ATP-binding site and can selectively differentiate between FGFR3 and FGFR1 is challenging due to the near-identical amino acid sequence in this site. We utilized the differentiated approach of our SNÅP platform to generate compounds, including TYRA-300, that capitalize on subtle conformational differences between FGFR3 and FGFR1 to obtain greater than ten-fold selectivity for FGFR3 versus FGFR1. In comparison, other FGFR inhibitors that are approved or in clinical development such as erdafitinib, pemigatinib, futibatinib and infigratinib, have demonstrated low or no selectivity for FGFR3. The high FGFR3-specificity that we observed to date for our potential product candidates for FGFR3 also extended to the broader family of protein kinases, where we showed that very few kinases were inhibited by our potential product candidates. Although we have not conducted any head-to-head clinical studies, we believe that TYRA-300’s relative selectivity for FGFR3 observed in pre-clinical studies may address dose limiting toxicities of the first generation compounds, enabling higher dosing and potentially better efficacy.

 

116


Table of Contents

LOGO

TYRA-300 was highly selective for FGFR3 over other FGFR isoforms in a Ba/F3 cell-based assay

Beyond selectivity for FGFR3 relative to FGFR1, FGFR2 and FGFR4, TYRA-300 avoided off-target inhibition of other kinases when profiled in a scanMAXSM (KINOMEscan) screen.

LOGO

TYRA-300 was highly selective for FGFR3 over other protein kinases

 

117


Table of Contents

Phosphate levels in vivo

In a xenograft model using a bladder cancer-derived cell line RT112/84 shown above, treatment with TYRA-300 led to tumor regression at a dose of 12.5 mg/kg delivered twice a day. Treatment with erdafitinib also resulted in tumor volume reduction at the same dose in this model. Because the human dosing of erdafitinib is limited by hyperphosphatemia we measured the plasma phosphate levels in male Sprague Dawley rats 24 hours after dosing. Plasma phosphate levels in TYRA-300 treated rats were not substantially elevated at 10 mg/kg, 30 mg/kg, or 60 mg/kg doses, unlike the erdafitinib doses, as seen in the figure below. We believe TYRA-300 may be able to sustain higher doses without inducing hyperphosphatemia.

 

LOGO

TYRA-300 did not elevate phosphate relative to erdafitinib

Effect of a single oral dose (10, 30 or 60 mg/kg) of TYRA-300 or erdafitinib on plasma phosphate levels 24 hours after dosing in male Sprague Dawley rats. Each data point represents the plasma phosphate measurement from the pooled sample of all 4 rats per dose group. Plasma phosphate levels were observed to be lower in the TYRA-300 treated groups than in the erdafitinib treated groups.

Clinical Development plans for TYRA-300

We are currently conducting IND-enabling studies for TYRA-300. In a completed 10-day non-GLP toxicology study in rats, TYRA-300 was well tolerated at dose levels up to 20 mg/kg in both males and females. We intend to conduct GLP toxicology studies in animals of TYRA-300 using the salt form/cyclodextrin formulation as part of our IND-enabling activities.

We plan to file an IND with the FDA for TYRA-300, followed by initiation of a Phase 1/2 clinical trial. We anticipate that the Phase 1 portion of the trial will be designed as an accelerated dose escalation in any advanced solid tumor refractory to existing therapies, including dose expansion cohorts of patients with FGFR3-positive cancers. We expect the primary objectives of the Phase 1 portion of the trial to be an evaluation of the safety and tolerability of TYRA-300 and a determination of the recommended Phase 2 dose, or RP2D. In addition, we plan to characterize the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationship for TYRA-300 as well as conduct early validation of a liquid biopsy companion diagnostic test to assist us in identifying appropriate patients for our product candidates.

 

118


Table of Contents

We are designing the Phase 2 portion of our trial to be consistent with the well-established precedent of clinical trials of approved targeted therapies. If the data from any or all of these predefined patient populations are sufficient to support marketing authorization, we expect to seek feedback from the FDA in order to evaluate our ability to pursue and receive accelerated approval in the United States. We have not had any initial feedback from the FDA relating to our plans to pursue accelerated approval in the United States, and there can be no assurance that after our evaluation of the feedback and other factors, we will decide to pursue accelerated approval or any other form of expedited development, review or approval. We initially plan to evaluate TYRA-300 in the following three populations of FGFR3-positive tumors.

 

   

Metastatic MIBC (mUC) patients who have received an FGFR inhibitor previously and have developed resistance to that inhibitor due to an FGFR3 mutation, such as the gatekeeper V555M.

 

   

Metastatic MIBC (mUC) patients who have not yet received an FGFR inhibitor where we believe a reduction in toxicities and side effects, as well as the avoidance of the selection for the V555M gatekeeper mutations, have the potential to lead to improved tolerability, higher dosing and increasing the duration of responses.

 

   

Any solid tumors containing known activating FGFR3 gene alterations.

If TYRA-300 is well-tolerated, we plan to evaluate additional patient populations as adjuvant therapy for localized MIBC following surgery and in recurrent NMIBC following BCG therapy, where reduction in side effects are a significant consideration for treatment choice and patient adherence.

We plan to select a diagnostic company to use a liquid biopsy companion diagnostic test to aid in identifying appropriate patients for this clinical trial.

LOGO

Potential indications for TYRA-300

FGFR3 mutations in initial patient populations include S249C, R248C, Y373C, G370C and FGFR3-TACC3 fusions with a resistance mutation including the V555 gatekeeper. FGFR3 mutations in follow-on patient populations that are naïve to FGFR therapy include S249C, R248C, Y373C, G370C and FGFR3-TACC3 fusions.

Our FGFR2 inhibitor discovery program

We are currently evaluating several small molecule inhibitors of FGFR2 for the treatment of FGFR2-dependent cancers, initially for patients with ICC who are resistant to FGFR therapies. Similar to therapies designed for the treatment of FGFR3-driven cancers, resistance to both approved and investigational FGFR inhibitors have been shown to arise due to mutations in FGFR2. We have designed our small molecule inhibitors of FGFR2 to be active against multiple acquired resistant mutations that arise during treatment with other FGFR2 inhibitors. Although no head-to-head clinical trials have been conducted, we believe the use of comparative in vitro data from pre-clinical studies provides meaningful insight into the potential for our product candidates to improve on certain characteristics of approved and investigational FGFR inhibitors, and helps inform potential future clinical development of our product candidates. We plan to file an IND for a nominated product candidate in the second half of 2022.

 

119


Table of Contents

ICC disease background

ICC is a form of cancer that originates in the bile ducts, which are a series of thin vessels that transport bile from liver cells to the small intestine. Diagnosis of ICC is often difficult as it is not associated with any specific symptoms other than dull abdominal pain, weight loss and elevated liver enzymes. ICC is a rare tumor, accounting for only 3% of worldwide gastrointestinal malignancies, with an incidence in the United States estimated to be 0.95 cases per 100,000. However, the incidence of this disease has risen in the past 30 years. The median overall survival for all patients diagnosed with ICC is reported to be 16.1 months. The median overall survival for patients diagnosed with late-stage disease is less than one year.

FGFR2 is a protein receptor present on the cell surface that promotes cellular proliferation and transformation upon binding of fibroblast growth factor. Similar to FGFR3, activating mutations and fusions of FGFR2 have been implicated in the tumorigenesis of multiple solid tumor types. Approximately 15-20% of patients with ICC have genetic alterations in FGFR2, which are primarily gene fusions and activating mutations.

Standard of care and current limitations for the treatment of ICC

Currently, surgical recession is the only curative option available to ICC patients. However, only approximately one-third of patients are eligible for surgery at diagnosis. The remaining patient population with unresectable tumors are typically treated with chemotherapies. The recommended frontline regimen is a combination of gemcitabine and cisplatin, which offers a median overall survival benefit of 11.7 months. Upon disease progression, patients with actionable mutations, such as FGFR2 alterations, are eligible to receive targeted therapies.

FGFR inhibitors

Patients with genetic alternations in FGFR2 are eligible to be treated with pemigatinib, an FGFR inhibitor that received accelerated approval in the United States in 2020 for treatment following chemotherapy. In the Phase 2 clinical trial of pemigatinib for the treatment of ICC, the overall response rate with was 36% with a median duration of response of 9.1 months. We believe a critical unmet need for patients with FGFR2 fusion or FGFR2-altered ICC is balancing the potency for the wild type and the numerous on-target resistance mutations that emerge in patients treated with pemigatinib and current clinical stage drug candidates. The most frequently occurring acquired drug resistance mutations are active site mutations such as the gatekeeper and amino acids comprising the molecular brake. These mutations, as well as allosteric gain-of-function mutations, have been observed clinically to confer resistance to pemigatinib and additional late stage FGFR inhibitors. We believe maintaining potency against these mutations as well as wild-type FGFR2 could potentially improve efficacy and duration of response.

 

LOGO

 

120


Table of Contents

Acquired drug resistance is common in patients with ICC treated with FGFR inhibitors

Our solution

We are currently evaluating several small molecule inhibitors of FGFR2 designed to be active against multiple acquired resistance mutations that arise during treatment with other FGFR inhibitors. In preclinical models conducted to date, our compounds demonstrate similar potency in FGFR2-driven Ba/F3 cells to erdafitinib, pemigatinib, futibatinib or infigratinib, while reducing or eliminating the decrease in potency observed with N550K molecular brake and V565F/V56I gatekeeper resistance mutations.

 

LOGO

Our FGFR2 inhibitors retained potency against multiple potential acquired resistance mutations in FGFR2

LOGO

Tumor growth inhibition in SNU-16 and AN3CA xenograft models

Anti-tumor activity of pemigatinib (1 mg/kg once daily, or QD, oral dosing, n=6, upper left) was evident in the SNU-16 stomach carcinoma-derived xenograft model in Balb/c nude mice. SNU-16 cells contained an FGFR2 amplification. Pemigatinib at 1 mg/kg QD oral dosing (n=4) was not observed to be active in the AN3CA model (lower left). On the right panel, antitumor activity of the TYRA compounds (10 mg/kg BID oral dosing, n=4 per group) was evident in the uterine derived AN3CA xenograft model in Balb/c nude mice. AN3CA cells contained the N550K molecular brake mutation in FGFR2. Data points represent mean tumor volume and error bars represent standard error of the mean.

 

121


Table of Contents

Development plans for our FGFR2 inhibitor

Following anticipated product candidate nomination by the end of 2021 and anticipated IND submission in the second half of 2022, we plan to pursue a clinical development strategy similar to that of TYRA-300. We anticipate initially developing an FGFR2 inhibitor in patients with ICC who have developed drug resistance mutations from existing FGFR therapies, including the V565 gatekeeper or N550 molecular brake mutations. We believe there is potential for an FGFR2 inhibitor beyond this initial patient population, including in FGFR-treatment naïve patients with ICC and in patients with endometrial carcinoma, where up to 10-16% of patients have FGFR2 mutations. Beyond these cohorts, we intend to assess the efficacy of our drug candidate in other patient populations with activating gene alterations in FGFR2, such as colorectal cancer, melanoma, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, gastroesophageal cancer and lung cancer.

 

LOGO

Potential indications for our FGFR2 inhibitor

Opportunity for a second non-oncology FGFR3 selective inhibitor

Beyond oncology, FGFR3 is implicated in many other diseases, including achondroplasia, due to its role in regulating bone and cartilage formation. We believe that there is an opportunity to develop a second FGFR3 selective inhibitor for the treatment of long-term complications associated with achondroplasia.

Achondroplasia background

Achondroplasia, the most common form of dwarfism, is a disorder of bone that prevents proper cartilage growth and development, resulting in incomplete growth of the long bones in the arms and legs, malformation of the spine and chest and characteristic facial features. It occurs in approximately 1 in 15,000 to 40,000 newborns worldwide, and it is estimated that there are approximately 250,000 affected individuals worldwide. Achondroplasia can cause health complications such as restriction of breathing, obesity, recurrent ear infections and exaggerated inward curve of the spine as well as more serious problems that result from a narrowing of the spinal canal in infants at the base of the skull.

FGFR3 is normally expressed in chondrocytes (cartilage cells) in growth plates where it plays a role in bone growth. In achondroplasia, mutations cause FGFR3 to be overactive, resulting in deficiencies in bone formation, primarily in long bones, causing these bones to be shorter than normal. Because the mutation in FGFR3 is an activating mutation, the presence of a single copy of a mutated gene results in increased activity and achondroplasia. Approximately 80% of cases of achondroplasia arise through spontaneous mutation of FGFR3.

Unmet need in achondroplasia

There are currently no effective treatments that directly address the cause of achondroplasia. Individuals may undergo surgery to correct spine or bone abnormalities and to reduce the pressure inside the brain in cases of hydrocephaly. A more direct approach to addressing the short stature in achondroplasia is limb lengthening surgery. In

 

122


Table of Contents

this type of surgery, rods are inserted into the long bones and used to stretch the limbs. These surgeries are typically performed in younger patients who are still undergoing active bone growth. However, these therapies have both a high financial and social cost, as well as potential for complications associated with any orthopedic procedures.

Opportunity for FGFR3 inhibitor

We believe that an oral, highly selective inhibitor of mutant FGFR3 may address long-term complications in affected individuals, including spinal stenosis, scoliosis and respiratory problems, alleviating the need for multiple painful surgeries and improving quality of life for this patient population.

Our RET and FGFR4 inhibitor discovery programs

RET and FGFR4 are both RTKs that perform important cell-signaling functions and are susceptible to oncogenic genetic alterations. Both RET and FGFR4 can lead to malignancies across multiple tumor types. In certain RET-driven tumors, Retevmo (selpercatinib) and Gavreto® (pralsetinib) are both approved by the FDA, however, drug resistant mutations have emerged. For FGFR4-driven tumors, there are no currently approved therapies. Acquired drug resistance due to tumor mutation has been observed in current clinical stage drug candidates. This acquired drug resistance can limit drug durability, creating unmet need. We intend to utilize our SNÅP platform to develop product candidates that can potentially overcome drug resistant mutations and potentially improve patient outcomes.

Prevalence of RET alterations in cancer

RET is an RTK that is essential for neuronal and embryonic development. Activating genetic alterations such as gene fusions and point mutations in RET are oncogenic. In non-small cell lung cancer, or NSCLC, and papillary thyroid carcinoma, or PTC, RET gene fusions lead to constitutive activation and oncogenesis. In NSCLC, 1 to 2% of patients who are negative for mutations or rearrangements in other common oncogenic drivers such as EGFR, ERBB2, BRAF, KRAS and ALK, have RET fusions. In PTC, the most common form of thyroid cancer, an estimated 35% of cases in North America and up to 65% of cases in other geographies are associated with RET fusions. In sporadic medullary thyroid carcinoma, or MTC, approximately half of patients have activating mutations in RET, whereas in familial cancer syndromes, such as MEN2B, germline RET mutations at M918T predispose carriers to MTC.

Limitations of current RET inhibitors

The first FDA approved therapies for RET-driven tumors were Caprelsa® (vandetanib) and Cabometyx® (cabozantinib), both of which are multi-kinase inhibitors approved for MTC that has progressed on standard therapy or is symptomatic and in need of treatment. Selpercatinib and pralsetinib are highly specific next-generation RET inhibitors that have received accelerated approval in patients with RET-dependent tumors including NSCLC, PTC and MTC.

Both vandetanib and cabozantinib were approved in MTC without a restriction to the RET-mutated population. For patients with MTC with activating RET mutations treated with these therapies, secondary resistance mutations at the gatekeeper position V804 arise during treatment and can be identified at the time of disease progression. Selpercatinib and pralsetinib address a key liability of the first generation multi-kinase inhibitors at V804. In metastatic RET-fusion positive patients with NSCLC that had previously failed platinum-based chemotherapy, selpercatinib treatment led to a 62% response rate with a median duration of response of 17.5 months. In patients with treatment-naïve NSCLC, the overall response rate was 85%. An overall response rate of approximately 70% was observed in RET-mutant MTC regardless of whether patients had previously failed on other kinase inhibitor therapies. Roughly similar efficacy was observed in clinical trials with pralsetinib. Both selpercatinib and pralsetinib received accelerated approval in the United States in 2020.

Although selpercatinib and pralsetinib were only recently approved and therefore do not have a long history of use, the emergence of acquired drug resistance mutations has already been observed at the G810

 

123


Table of Contents

solvent front. Based on the observed history with other targeted therapies in molecularly defined subgroups, we believe the use of these drugs will likely lead to additional resistance liabilities over time.

Our RET Program

We are planning to develop a RET-specific inhibitor that is insensitive to the V804 gatekeeper and the G810 solvent front mutations. Our drug discovery efforts are driven by our ability to gain molecular-level detail and insights from internally derived co-crystal structures of selpercatinib, pralsetinib and other inhibitors bound to RTKs. Recent publications have shown that these inhibitors have liabilities at the gatekeeper, the solvent front, or other parts of the ATP-binding pocket. Our focus is to develop RET inhibitors that address many of these key liabilities, an approach which we believe will allow our product candidates to demonstrate antitumor activity in patients who progress on current-generation RET inhibitors.

Our initial development plans for our RET inhibitor product candidate will focus on patients who fail previous treatment with a RET inhibitor due to acquired mutations in V804 or G810. We anticipate that our RET inhibitor will also have potential for antitumor activity in patients with RET treatment-naïve containing RET fusions or RET activating mutations.

 

LOGO

Potential patient populations for our RET inhibitor

Role of FGFR4 in cancer

FGFR4 regulates bile acid synthesis and hepatocyte proliferation in the liver in response to fibroblast growth factor 19, or FGF19. Amplification of the gene encoding FGF19 has been implicated in activation of FGFR4 through autocrine signaling and may represent a biomarker that identifies a subpopulation of hepatocellular carcinoma, or HCC, that may be susceptible to FGFR4 inhibition. FGFR4 gene alterations such as activating point mutations and fusions have been identified in rare populations such as pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma and a variety of other solid tumors.

There are currently no approved therapies for FGFR4-driven cancers. Fisogatinib is an FGFR4 inhibitor in clinical development. A Phase 1 clinical trial with fisogatinib obtained tumor regression in patients with HCC with aberrant FGF19 expression, indicating that FGFR4 may be an important driver of disease in select patients. Results from this trial led to the identification of FGFR4 mutations associated with acquired drug resistance. These mutations included V550 gatekeeper mutations and C552 mutations, both of which were found to cause a loss of fisogatinib potency of more than 1,000-fold.

Our FGFR4 Program

Our FGFR4 drug discovery efforts are driven by our deep structural understanding of the FGFR family including over 40 co-crystal structures of FGFR4 itself. We are planning to develop an FGFR4-specific inhibitor that is insensitive to the V550 gatekeeper and the C552 mutations. We anticipate that our product candidate will

 

124


Table of Contents

also have potential for antitumor activity in patients with spontaneous FGFR4 activating mutations at the gatekeeper (V550) and molecular brake (N553), as well as in rare FGFR4 fusions.

Initial development plans for our FGFR4 inhibitor will focus on patients with FGF19-amplified HCC, activating point mutations in pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma, and other rare populations with FGFR4 fusions and activating mutations.

LOGO

Potential patient populations for our FGFR4 inhibitor

Competition

The pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries are characterized by rapidly advancing technologies, intense competition and a strong emphasis on proprietary products. While we believe that our technology, the expertise of our team, and our development experience and scientific knowledge provide us with competitive advantages, we face increasing competition from many different sources, including pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, academic institutions, governmental agencies and public and private research institutions. Product candidates that we successfully develop and commercialize may compete with existing therapies and new therapies that may become available in the future.

Many of our competitors, either alone or with their collaborators, have significantly greater financial resources, established presence in the market, and expertise in research and development, manufacturing, preclinical and clinical testing, obtaining regulatory approvals and reimbursement and marketing approved products than we do. These competitors also compete with us in recruiting and retaining qualified scientific and management personnel, establishing clinical trial sites and patient registration for clinical trials, as well as in acquiring technologies complementary to, or necessary for, our programs. Smaller or early-stage companies may also prove to be significant competitors, particularly through collaborative arrangements with large and established companies. Additional mergers and acquisitions may result in even more resources being concentrated in our competitors.

Our commercial potential could be reduced or eliminated if our competitors develop and commercialize products that are safer or more effective, have fewer or less severe side effects, and are more convenient or less expensive than products that we may develop. Our competitors also may obtain FDA or other regulatory approval for their products more rapidly than we can, which could result in our competitors establishing a strong market position before we are able to enter the market or could otherwise make our development more complicated. We believe the key competitive factors affecting the success of all of our programs are likely to be efficacy, including duration of human response and breadth of coverage, safety and patient convenience.

There are numerous companies developing or marketing treatments for cancer, including many major pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. These treatments consist of small molecule drug products, biologics, cell-based therapies, and traditional chemotherapy. There are three currently approved pan-FGFR inhibitors in the U.S.: Incyte Corporation’s Pemazyre® (pemigatinib) and QED Therapeutics’ Truseltiq® (infigratinib), each approved for FGFR2 gene rearrangements in cholangiocarcinoma; and Janssen Biotech, Inc.’s Balversa® (erdafitinib), approved in specific FGFR3 and FGFR2 gene alterations in urothelial cancer. Both Incyte (NCT03656536) and QED (NCT03773302) are conducting global Phase 3 confirmatory studies in treatment-naïve metastatic ICC, and Janssen is conducting a global Phase 3 confirmatory study in metastatic urothelial cancer in subjects who have received 1 or 2 prior therapies (NCT03390504).

 

125


Table of Contents

In addition to the confirmatory study in ICC, pemigatinib is being studied in NMIBC (NCT03914794); as adjuvant therapy following surgery for bladder cancer (NCT04294277); in tumor agnostic cancer populations (NCT04003623, NCT03822117); in combination with chemotherapy in ICC (NCT04088188); and in combination with immunotherapy in endometrial cancer (NCT04463771). QED has ongoing studies in bladder cancer prior to surgery as neoadjuvant therapy (NCT04228042); following bladder cancer surgery as adjuvant therapy (NCT04197986); in a tumor agnostic population (NCT04233567); and in achondroplasia (NCT04265651). Janssen is studying erdafitinib in NMIBC (NCT04917809, NCT04172675); in tumor agnostic cancer populations (NCT02465060, NCT03827850), including a pediatric study (NCT03155620; and in combination with immunotherapy in bladder cancer (NCT03473743), among others.

There are a number of other investigational pan-FGFR programs for FGFR-specific populations. Taiho Oncology, Inc.’s TAS-120 (futibatinib) has completed a Phase 2 study in ICC, and is currently enrolling a pivotal Phase 3 study in treatment-naïve metastatic ICC versus standard of care chemotherapy (NCT04093362); Taiho also has ongoing studies in a tumor agnostic population (NCT04189445); and combination studies with pembrolizumab in urothelial cancer (NCT04601857) and FGF19 positive liver cancer (NCT04828486). Bayer Pharmaceutical’s has an ongoing Phase 1/2 study of BAY 1163877 (Rogaratinib) in urothelial cancer in combination with atezolizumab (NCT03473756). Isoform specific FGFR inhibitors such as Relay Therapeutics, Inc.’s RLY-4008 is currently in Phase 1 with stated plans to develop their candidate in ICC. Kinnate Biopharma Inc.’s has a preclinical candidate in KIN-3248.

There are two approved RET inhibitors, Lilly’s Loxo Oncology’s Retevmo (selpercatinib) and Blueprint Medicines’ Gavreto (pralsetinib), both of which are approved for RET-positive NSCLC, PTC, and MTC. Both are conducting confirmatory Phase 3 studies in NSCLC (NCT03473756, NCT04222972) and in MTC (NCT04211337, NCT04760288). Turning Point Therapeutics is developing their RET candidate TPX-0046 in a Phase 1 study (NCT04161391) with stated plans to expand their study to NSCLC, MTC, and tumor agnostic populations. Boston Pharmaceuticals is developing their RET candidate BOS172738 in a Phase 1 study (NCT03780517).

There are currently no approved FGFR4 inhibitors, but there are a number of FGFR4 programs in clinical development. Blueprint Medicine is developing BLU-554 (fisogatinib) in a Phase 1/2 study in HCC in combination with a checkpoint inhibitor (NCT04194801). H3 Biomedicines has recruited a Phase 1/2 study of H3B-6527 in HCC (NCT02834780) but no further details are publicly available. Novartis completed a Phase 1/2 study of FGF401 alone and in combination with a checkpoint inhibitor in HCC (NCT02325739) and a similar study with FGF401 is now being conducted by Everest Medicines in combination with pembrolizumab in China.

Intellectual Property

We strive to protect the intellectual property and proprietary technology that we consider important to our business through a variety of methods, including seeking and maintaining patents intended to cover our product candidates and compositions, their methods of use and processes for their manufacture, and any other inventions that are important to our business. We rely on know-how and continuing technological innovation to develop and maintain our proprietary position. We also rely on trade secrets and know-how that may be important to the development of our business. We seek to obtain domestic and international patent protection and endeavor to promptly file patent applications for new commercially valuable inventions to expand our intellectual property portfolio.

We believe that we have an intellectual property position and substantial know-how relating to our product candidates and SNÅP platform. As of August 15, 2021, our intellectual property portfolio consisted of seven pending U.S. provisional applications and two patent applications pursuant to the Patent Cooperation Treaty, or the PCT, all of which are solely owned by us. At this time, we do not own any issued patents, pending non-provisional patent applications in the U.S., or pending patent applications in any foreign countries, and we do not license any material patent rights from any third party. Collectively, our patent rights relate to various aspects of our product candidates. We do not anticipate entering national phase with respect to either of our current PCT applications until June 2022.

 

126


Table of Contents

We continually assess and refine our intellectual property strategy as we develop new product candidates and improvements to our SNÅP platform. To that end, we are prepared to file additional patent applications in any appropriate fields if our intellectual property strategy requires such filings, or where we seek to adapt to competition or seize business opportunities. Further, we are prepared to file patent applications, as we consider appropriate under the circumstances, relating to the new technologies that we develop.

We cannot be sure that patents will be granted with respect to any of our pending patent applications or with respect to any patent applications we may own or license in the future, nor can we be sure that any patents we may own or license in the future will be useful in protecting our technology. Please see “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Intellectual Property” for additional information on the risks associated with our intellectual property strategy and portfolio.

Intellectual Property Relating to Our FGFR3 Program

With regard to our FGFR3 product candidates, as of August 15, 2021, we owned three pending U.S. provisional patent applications and one pending PCT patent application. These patent rights relate to the FGFR3 product candidates’ compositions of matter, formulations containing them, methods of manufacturing, and methods of treating diseases, using our FGFR3 product candidates. Specifically, we have one U.S. provisional patent application directed to the composition matter of our leading candidate in the FGFR3 program. We expect any patents issued from these applications to expire in 2040 or 2042 without accounting for any patent term adjustment or extension that may be available.

Intellectual Property Relating to Our FGFR2 Program

With regard to our FGFR2 program, as of August 15, 2021, we owned three pending U.S. provisional patent applications and one pending international PCT patent application. These patent rights relate to the FGFR2 program’s compositions of matter, formulations containing them, methods of manufacturing, and methods of treating diseases. We expect any patents issued from these applications to expire in 2040 or 2042 without accounting for any patent term extension that may be available.

Intellectual Property Relating to Other Programs

With regard to our other programs, including the FGFR4 program, as of August 15, 2021, we owned one pending U.S. provisional patent application. These patent rights relate to these other programs’ compositions of matter, formulations containing them, methods of manufacturing, and methods of treating diseases. We expect any patent issued from this application to expire in 2042 without accounting for any patent term extension that may be available.

Scope and Duration of Intellectual Property Protection

The term of individual patents depends upon the laws of the countries in which they are obtained. In most countries in which we file, the patent term is 20 years from the earliest date of filing of a non-provisional patent application. However, the term of United States patents may be extended for delays incurred due to compliance with the FDA requirements or by delays encountered during prosecution that are caused by the USPTO. For example, for drugs that are regulated by the FDA under the Hatch-Waxman Act, the FDA is permitted to extend the term of a patent that covers such drug for up to five years beyond the normal expiration date of the patent. In the future, if and when our product candidates receive FDA approval, we expect to apply for patent term extensions on patents covering those product candidates. We intend to seek patent term extensions to any of our issued patents in jurisdictions where these are available; however, there is no guarantee that the applicable authorities, including the USPTO and FDA, will agree with our assessment of whether such extensions should be granted, and even if granted, the length of such extensions. If patents are issued on our pending patent applications, the resulting patents are expected to expire on dates ranging from 2040 to 2042, unless we receive patent term extension or patent term adjustment, or both.

 

127


Table of Contents

However, the actual protection afforded by a patent varies on a product-by-product basis, from country-to-country, and depends upon many factors, including the type of patent, the scope of its coverage, the availability of regulatory-related extensions, the availability of legal remedies in a particular country and the validity and enforceability of the patent.

The patent positions of companies like ours are generally uncertain and involve complex legal and factual questions. No consistent policy regarding the scope of claims allowable in patents in the field of oncology therapy has emerged in the United States. The patent situation outside of the United States is even more uncertain. Changes in the patent laws and rules, either by legislation, judicial decisions, or regulatory interpretation in the United States and other countries may diminish our ability to protect our inventions and enforce our intellectual property rights, and more generally could affect the value of our intellectual property. In particular, our ability to stop third parties from making, using, selling, offering to sell, importing or otherwise commercializing any of our patented inventions, either directly or indirectly, will depend in part on our success in obtaining, defending and enforcing patent claims that cover our technology, inventions, and improvements. With respect to both licensed and company-owned intellectual property, we cannot be sure that patents will be granted with respect to any of our pending patent applications or with respect to any patent applications filed by us in the future, nor can we be sure that any of our patents that may be granted to us in the future will be commercially useful in protecting our product candidates and the methods used to manufacture them. Moreover, those patents that may issue in the future may not guarantee us the right to practice our technology in relation to the commercialization of our product candidates.

The area of patent and other intellectual property rights in biotechnology is an evolving one with many risks and uncertainties, and third parties may have blocking patents that could be used to prevent us from commercializing our product candidates and practicing our proprietary technology. Our patents that may issue in the future may be challenged, narrowed, circumvented or invalidated, which could limit our ability to stop competitors from marketing related product candidates or limit the length of the term of patent protection that we may have for our product candidates. In addition, the rights granted under any issued patents may not provide us with protection or competitive advantages against competitors with similar technology. Furthermore, our competitors may independently develop similar technologies. For these and other reasons, we may have competition for our product candidates. Moreover, because of the extensive time required for development, testing and regulatory review of a potential product, it is possible that before any product candidate can be commercialized, any related patent may expire or remain in force for only a short period following commercialization, thereby reducing any protection afforded by the patent. For this and other risks related to our proprietary technology, inventions, improvements, SNÅP platform and product candidates, please see the section entitled “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Intellectual Property.”

We intend to file applications for trademark registrations in connection with our product candidates in various jurisdictions, including the United States. We have filed for trademark protection of the TYRA and TYRA BIOSCIENCES marks with the United States Patent and Trademark Office and certain foreign patent and trademark organizations.

We also rely on trade secret protection for our confidential and proprietary information. Although we take steps to protect our confidential and proprietary information as trade secrets, including through contractual means with our employees, consultants, outside scientific collaborators, sponsored researchers and other advisors, third parties may independently develop substantially equivalent proprietary information and techniques or otherwise gain access to our trade secrets or disclose our technology. Thus, we may not be able to meaningfully protect our trade secrets. It is our policy to require our employees, consultants, outside scientific collaborators, sponsored researchers and other advisors to execute confidentiality agreements under the commencement of employment or consulting relationships with us. These agreements provide that all confidential information concerning our business or financial affairs developed or made known to the individual during the individual’s relationship with us is to be kept confidential and not disclosed to third parties except in specific circumstances. In the case of employees, the agreements provide that all inventions conceived by the

 

128


Table of Contents

individual, and which are related to our current or planned business or research and development or made during normal working hours, on our premises or using our equipment or proprietary information, are our exclusive property. In many cases our confidentiality and other agreements with consultants, outside scientific collaborators, sponsored researchers and other advisors require them to assign or grant us licenses to inventions they invent as a result of the work or services they render under such agreements or grant us an option to negotiate a license to use such inventions. Despite these efforts, we cannot provide any assurances that all such agreements have been duly executed, and any of these parties may breach the agreements and disclose our proprietary information, and we may not be able to obtain adequate remedies for such breaches.

We also seek to preserve the integrity and confidentiality of our proprietary technology and processes by maintaining physical security of our premises and physical and electronic security of our information technology systems. Although we have confidence in these individuals, organizations and systems, agreements or security measures may be breached, and we may not have adequate remedies for any breach. To the extent that our employees, contractors, consultants, collaborators and advisors use intellectual property owned by others in their work for us, disputes may arise as to the rights in relation to the resulting know-how or inventions. For more information, please see the section titled “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Intellectual Property.”

Commercialization

We intend to retain significant development and commercial rights to our product candidates and, if marketing approval is obtained, to commercialize our product candidates on our own, or potentially with a partner, in the United States and other regions. We currently have no sales, marketing or commercial product distribution capabilities. We intend to build the necessary infrastructure and capabilities over time for the United States, and potentially other regions, following further advancement of our product candidates. Clinical data, the size of the addressable patient population, the size of the commercial infrastructure and manufacturing needs may all influence or alter our commercialization plans.

Manufacturing

We do not have any manufacturing facilities or personnel. We currently rely, and expect to continue to rely, on third parties for the manufacture of our product candidates undergoing preclinical testing, as well as for subsequent clinical testing and commercial manufacture if our product candidates receive marketing approval. We believe this strategy allows us to focus our expertise and resources on the development of our product candidates by eliminating the need for us to invest in our own manufacturing facilities, equipment and personnel.

We plan to put agreements in place with contract manufacturing organizations for the necessary quantities of active pharmaceutical ingredients, or API, and drug product for each of our product candidates, on a project-by-project basis, based on our development needs.

As we advance our product candidates through development, we will explore adding backup suppliers for the API and drug product for each of our product candidates to protect against any potential supply disruptions.

Government Regulation

Government authorities in the United States, at the federal, state and local level, and other countries extensively regulate, among other things, the research, development, testing, manufacture, quality control, approval, labeling, packaging, storage, record-keeping, promotion, advertising, distribution, marketing and export and import of drug products. A new drug must be approved by the FDA through the New Drug Application, or NDA, process before it may be legally marketed in the United States. We, along with any third-party contractors, will be required to navigate the various preclinical, clinical and commercial approval requirements of the governing regulatory agencies of the countries in which we wish to conduct studies or seek approval of our products and product candidates. The process of obtaining regulatory approvals and the subsequent compliance with applicable federal, state, local and foreign statutes and regulations require the expenditure of substantial time and financial resources.

 

129


Table of Contents

U.S. Drug Development Process

In the United States, the FDA regulates drugs under the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, or the FDCA, and its implementing regulations. The process of obtaining regulatory approvals and the subsequent compliance with appropriate federal, state, local and foreign statutes and regulations require the expenditure of substantial time and financial resources. The process required by the FDA before a drug may be marketed in the United States generally involves the following:

 

   

completion of preclinical laboratory tests, animal studies and formulation studies in accordance with FDA’s GLP requirements and other applicable regulations;

 

   

submission to the FDA of an IND, which must become effective before human clinical trials may begin;

 

   

approval by an independent Institutional Review Board, or IRB, or ethics committee at each clinical site before each trial may be initiated;

 

   

performance of adequate and well-controlled human clinical trials in accordance with good clinical practices, or GCPs, to establish the safety and efficacy of the proposed drug for its intended use;

 

   

preparation of and submission to the FDA of an NDA after completion of all pivotal trials;

 

   

a determination by the FDA within 60 days of its receipt of an NDA to file the application for review

 

   

satisfactory completion of an FDA advisory committee review, if applicable;

 

   

satisfactory completion of an FDA inspection of the manufacturing facility or facilities at which the drug is produced to assess compliance with current Good Manufacturing Practice, or cGMP requirements to assure that the facilities, methods and controls are adequate to preserve the drug’s identity, strength, quality and purity, and of selected clinical investigation sites to assess compliance with GCPs; and

 

   

FDA review and approval of the NDA to permit commercial marketing of the product for particular indications for use in the United States.

Prior to beginning the first clinical trial with a product candidate in the United States, a sponsor must submit an IND to the FDA. An IND is a request for authorization from the FDA to administer an investigational new drug product to humans. The central focus of an IND submission is on the general investigational plan and the protocol(s) for clinical studies. The IND also includes results of animal and in vitro studies assessing the toxicology, pharmacokinetics, pharmacology, and pharmacodynamic characteristics of the product; chemistry, manufacturing, and controls information; and any available human data or literature to support the use of the investigational product. An IND must become effective before human clinical trials may begin. The IND automatically becomes effective 30 days after receipt by the FDA, unless the FDA, within the 30- day time period, raises safety concerns or questions about the proposed clinical trial. In such a case, the IND may be placed on clinical hold and the IND sponsor and the FDA must resolve any outstanding concerns or questions before the clinical trial can begin. Submission of an IND therefore may or may not result in FDA authorization to begin a clinical trial.

Clinical trials involve the administration of the investigational product to human subjects under the supervision of qualified investigators in accordance with GCPs, which include the requirement that all research subjects provide their informed consent for their participation in any clinical study. Clinical trials are conducted under protocols detailing, among other things, the objectives of the study, the parameters to be used in monitoring safety and the effectiveness criteria to be evaluated. A separate submission to the existing IND must be made for each successive clinical trial conducted during product development and for any subsequent protocol amendments. Furthermore, an independent IRB for each site proposing to conduct the clinical trial must review and approve the plan for any clinical trial and its informed consent form before the clinical trial begins at that site and must monitor

 

130


Table of Contents

the study until completed. Some studies also include oversight by an independent group of qualified experts organized by the clinical study sponsor, known as a data safety monitoring board, which provides authorization for whether or not a study may move forward at designated check points based on access to certain data from the study and may halt the clinical trial if it determines that there is an unacceptable safety risk for subjects or other grounds, such as no demonstration of efficacy. Depending on its charter, this group may determine whether a trial may move forward at designated check points based on access to certain data from the trial. The FDA or the sponsor may suspend a clinical trial at any time on various grounds, including a finding that the research subjects or patients are being exposed to an unacceptable health risk. Similarly, an IRB can suspend or terminate approval of a clinical trial at its institution if the clinical trial is not being conducted in accordance with the IRB’s requirements or if the drug has been associated with unexpected serious harm to patients. There are also requirements governing the reporting of ongoing clinical studies and clinical study results to public registries.

Human clinical trials are typically conducted in three sequential phases that may overlap or be combined:

 

   

Phase 1: The product candidate is initially introduced into healthy human subjects or patients with the target disease or condition. These studies are designed to test the safety, dosage tolerance, absorption, metabolism and distribution of the investigational product in humans, the side effects associated with increasing doses, and, if possible, to gain early evidence on effectiveness.

 

   

Phase 2: The product candidate is administered to a limited patient population with a specified disease or condition to evaluate the preliminary efficacy, optimal dosages and dosing schedule and to identify possible adverse side effects and safety risks. Multiple Phase 2 clinical trials may be conducted to obtain information prior to beginning larger and more expensive Phase 3 clinical trials.

 

   

Phase 3: The product candidate is administered to an expanded patient population to further evaluate dosage, to provide statistically significant evidence of clinical efficacy and to further test for safety, generally at multiple geographically dispersed clinical trial sites. These clinical trials are intended to establish the overall risk/benefit ratio of the investigational product and to provide an adequate basis for product approval.

In some cases, the FDA may require, or sponsors may voluntarily pursue, additional clinical trials after a product is approved to gain more information about the product. These so-called Phase 4 studies, may be conducted after initial marketing approval, and may be used to gain additional experience from the treatment of patients in the intended therapeutic indication. In certain instances, the FDA may mandate the performance of Phase 4 clinical trials as a condition of approval of an NDA.

Concurrent with clinical trials, companies usually complete additional animal studies and must also develop additional information about the chemistry and physical characteristics of the drug and finalize a process for manufacturing the product in commercial quantities in accordance with cGMP requirements. The manufacturing process must be capable of consistently producing quality batches of the product candidate and, among other things, the manufacturer must develop methods for testing the identity, strength, quality and purity of the final drug. In addition, appropriate packaging must be selected and tested, and stability studies must be conducted to demonstrate that the product candidate does not undergo unacceptable deterioration over its shelf life.

While the IND is active and before approval, progress reports summarizing the results of the clinical trials and nonclinical studies performed since the last progress report must be submitted at least annually to the FDA, and written IND safety reports must be submitted to the FDA and investigators for serious and unexpected suspected adverse events, findings from other studies suggesting a significant risk to humans exposed to the same or similar drugs, findings from animal or in vitro testing suggesting a significant risk to humans, and any clinically important increased incidence of a serious suspected adverse reaction compared to that listed in the protocol or investigator brochure.

In addition, during the development of a new drug, sponsors are given opportunities to meet with the FDA at certain points. These points may be prior to submission of an IND, at the end of Phase 2, and before an NDA is submitted. Meetings at other times may be requested. These meetings can provide an opportunity for the sponsor to share information about the data gathered to date, for the FDA to provide advice, and for the sponsor

 

131


Table of Contents

and the FDA to reach agreement on the next phase of development. Sponsors typically use the meetings at the end of the Phase 2 trial to discuss Phase 2 clinical results and present plans for the pivotal Phase 3 clinical trials that they believe will support approval of the new drug.

U.S. Review and Approval Process

Assuming successful completion of all required testing in accordance with all applicable regulatory requirements, the results of product development, preclinical and other non-clinical studies and clinical trials, along with descriptions of the manufacturing process, analytical tests conducted on the chemistry of the drug, proposed labeling and other relevant information are submitted to the FDA as part of an NDA requesting approval to market the product. Data can come from company-sponsored clinical studies intended to test the safety and effectiveness of a use of the product, or from a number of alternative sources, including studies initiated by independent investigators. The submission of an NDA is subject to the payment of substantial user fees; a waiver of such fees may be obtained under certain limited circumstances. Additionally, no user fees are assessed on NDAs for products designated as orphan drugs, unless the product also includes a non-orphan indication.

The FDA conducts a preliminary review of all NDAs within the first 60 days after submission, before accepting them for filing, to determine whether they are sufficiently complete to permit substantive review The FDA may request additional information rather than accept an NDA for filing. In this event, the NDA must be resubmitted with the additional information. The resubmitted application also is subject to review before the FDA accepts it for filing. Once filed, the FDA reviews an NDA to determine, among other things, whether a product is safe and effective for its intended use and whether its manufacturing is cGMP-compliant to assure and preserve the product’s identity, strength, quality and purity. Under the Prescription Drug User Fee Act guidelines that are currently in effect, the FDA has a goal of ten months from the filing date to complete a standard review of an NDA for a drug that is a new molecular entity. This review typically takes twelve months from the date the NDA is submitted to FDA because the FDA has approximately two months to make a “filing” decision after it the application is submitted.

The FDA may refer an application for a novel drug to an advisory committee. An advisory committee is a panel of independent experts, including clinicians and other scientific experts, that reviews, evaluates and provides a recommendation as to whether the application should be approved and under what conditions. The FDA is not bound by the recommendations of an advisory committee, but it considers such recommendations carefully when making decisions.

Before approving an NDA, the FDA will typically inspect the facility or facilities where the product is manufactured. The FDA will not approve an application unless it determines that the manufacturing processes and facilities are in compliance with cGMP and adequate to assure consistent production of the product within required specifications. Additionally, before approving a NDA, the FDA will typically inspect one or more clinical sites to assure compliance with GCPs. If the FDA determines that the application, manufacturing process or manufacturing facilities are not acceptable, it will outline the deficiencies in the submission and often will request additional testing or information. Notwithstanding the submission of any requested additional information, the FDA ultimately may decide that the application does not satisfy the regulatory criteria for approval.

After the FDA evaluates an NDA and conducts inspections of manufacturing facilities where the investigational product and/or its drug substance will be produced, the FDA may issue an approval letter or a Complete Response Letter, or CRL. An approval letter authorizes commercial marketing of the product with specific prescribing information for specific indications. A CRL will describe all of the deficiencies that the FDA has identified in the NDA, except that where the FDA determines that the data supporting the application are inadequate to support approval, the FDA may issue the CRL without first conducting required inspections and/or reviewing proposed labeling. In issuing the CRL, the FDA may recommend actions that the applicant might take to place the NDA in condition for approval, including requests for additional information or clarification. The FDA may delay or refuse approval of an NDA if applicable regulatory criteria are not satisfied, require additional testing or information and/or require post-marketing testing and surveillance to monitor safety or efficacy of a product.

If regulatory approval of a product is granted, such approval will be granted for particular indications and may entail limitations on the indicated uses for which such product may be marketed. For example, the FDA

 

132


Table of Contents

may approve the NDA with a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy, or REMS to ensure the benefits of the product outweigh its risks. A REMS is a safety strategy to manage a known or potential serious risk associated with a medicine and to enable patients to have continued access to such medicines by managing their safe use, and could include medication guides, physician communication plans, or elements to assure safe use, such as restricted distribution methods, patient registries, and other risk minimization tools. The FDA also may condition approval on, among other things, changes to proposed labeling or the development of adequate controls and specifications. The FDA may also require one or more Phase 4 post- market studies and surveillance to further assess and monitor the product’s safety and effectiveness after commercialization, and may limit further marketing of the product based on the results of these post-marketing studies.

In addition, the Pediatric Research Equity Act, or PREA, requires a sponsor to conduct pediatric clinical trials for most drugs, for a new active ingredient, new indication, new dosage form, new dosing regimen or new route of administration. Under PREA, original NDAs and supplements must contain a pediatric assessment unless the sponsor has received a deferral or waiver. The required assessment must evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the product for the claimed indications in all relevant pediatric subpopulations and support dosing and administration for each pediatric subpopulation for which the product is safe and effective. The sponsor or FDA may request a deferral of pediatric clinical trials for some or all of the pediatric subpopulations. A deferral may be granted for several reasons, including a finding that the drug is ready for approval for use in adults before pediatric clinical trials are complete or that additional safety or effectiveness data needs to be collected before the pediatric clinical trials begin. The FDA must send a non-compliance letter to any sponsor that fails to submit the required assessment, keep a deferral current or fails to submit a request for approval of a pediatric formulation.

Expedited Development and Review Programs

The FDA offers a number of expedited development and review programs for qualifying product candidates. For example, the Fast Track program is intended to expedite or facilitate the process for reviewing new products that are intended to treat a serious or life-threatening disease or condition and demonstrate the potential to address unmet medical needs for the disease or condition. Fast Track designation applies to the combination of the product and the specific indication for which it is being studied. The sponsor of a fast track product has opportunities for more frequent interactions with the applicable FDA review team during product development and, once an NDA is submitted, the product candidate may be eligible for priority review. A Fast Track product may also be eligible for rolling review, where the FDA may consider for review sections of the NDA on a rolling basis before the complete application is submitted, if the sponsor provides a schedule for the submission of the sections of the NDA, the FDA agrees to accept sections of the NDA and determines that the schedule is acceptable, and the sponsor pays any required user fees upon submission of the first section of the NDA.

A product candidate intended to treat a serious or life-threatening disease or condition may also be eligible for Breakthrough Therapy designation to expedite its development and review. A product candidate can receive Breakthrough Therapy designation if preliminary clinical evidence indicates that the product candidate, alone or in combination with one or more other drugs or biologics, may demonstrate substantial improvement over existing therapies on one or more clinically significant endpoints, such as substantial treatment effects observed early in clinical development. The designation includes all of the Fast Track program features, as well as more intensive FDA interaction and guidance beginning as early as Phase 1 and an organizational commitment to expedite the development and review of the product candidate, including involvement of senior managers.

Any marketing application for a drug submitted to the FDA for approval, including a product candidate with a Fast Track designation and/or Breakthrough Therapy designation, may be eligible for other types of FDA programs intended to expedite the FDA review and approval process, such as priority review and accelerated approval. A product candidate is eligible for priority review if it is designed to treat a serious or life-threatening disease or condition, and if approved, would provide a significant improvement in safety or effectiveness compared to available alternatives for such disease or condition. For new-molecular-entity NDAs, priority review designation means the FDA’s goal is to take action on the marketing application within six months of the 60-day filing date.

Additionally, product candidates studied for their safety and effectiveness in treating serious or life-threatening diseases or conditions may receive accelerated approval upon a determination that the product has an effect on a surrogate endpoint that is reasonably likely to predict clinical benefit, or on a clinical endpoint that

 

133


Table of Contents

can be measured earlier than irreversible morbidity or mortality, that is reasonably likely to predict an effect on irreversible morbidity or mortality or other clinical benefit, taking into account the severity, rarity, or prevalence of the condition and the availability or lack of alternative treatments. As a condition of accelerated approval, the FDA will generally require the sponsor to perform adequate and well-controlled post-marketing clinical studies to verify and describe the anticipated effect on irreversible morbidity or mortality or other clinical benefit. Products receiving accelerated approval may be subject to expedited withdrawal procedures if the sponsor fails to conduct the required post-marketing studies or if such studies fail to verify the predicted clinical benefit. In addition, the FDA currently requires as a condition for accelerated approval pre-approval of promotional materials, which could adversely impact the timing of the commercial launch of the product.

Fast Track designation, Breakthrough Therapy designation, priority review, and accelerated approval do not change the standards for approval, but may expedite the development or approval process. Even if a product candidate qualifies for one or more of these programs, the FDA may later decide that the product no longer meets the conditions for qualification or decide that the time period for FDA review or approval will not be shortened.

Orphan Drug Designation and Exclusivity

Under the Orphan Drug Act, the FDA may grant orphan designation to a drug intended to treat a rare disease or condition, defined as a disease or condition with a patient population of fewer than 200,000 individuals in the United States, or a patient population greater than 200,000 individuals in the United States and when there is no reasonable expectation that the cost of developing and making available the drug in the United States will be recovered from sales in the United States for that drug. Orphan drug designation must be requested before submitting an NDA. After the FDA grants orphan drug designation, the generic identity of the therapeutic agent and its potential orphan use are disclosed publicly by the FDA.

If a product that has orphan drug designation subsequently receives the first FDA approval for the drug and indication for which it has such designation, the product is entitled to orphan product exclusivity, which means that the FDA may not approve any other applications, including a full NDA, to market the same drug for the same indication for seven years, except in limited circumstances, such as a showing of clinical superiority to the product with orphan drug exclusivity or if the FDA finds that the holder of the orphan drug exclusivity has not shown that it can assure the availability of sufficient quantities of the orphan drug to meet the needs of patients with the disease or condition for which the drug was designated. Orphan drug exclusivity does not prevent the FDA from approving a different drug for the same disease or condition, or the same drug for a different disease or condition. Among the other benefits of orphan drug designation are tax credits for certain research and a waiver of the NDA application user fee.

A designated orphan drug may not receive orphan drug exclusivity if it is approved for a use that is broader than the indication for which it received orphan designation. In addition, orphan drug exclusive marketing rights in the United States may be lost if the FDA later determines that the request for designation was materially defective or, as noted above, if a second applicant demonstrates that its product is clinically superior to the approved product with orphan exclusivity or the manufacturer of the approved product is unable to assure sufficient quantities of the product to meet the needs of patients with the rare disease or condition.

Post-approval Requirements

Drug products manufactured or distributed pursuant to FDA approvals are subject to pervasive and continuing regulation by the FDA, including, among other things, requirements relating to record-keeping, reporting of adverse experiences, periodic reporting, product sampling and distribution, and advertising and promotion of the product. After approval, most changes to the approved product, such as adding new indications or other labeling claims, are subject to prior FDA review and approval. There also are continuing, annual program fees for any marketed products. Drug manufacturers and their subcontractors are required to register their establishments with the FDA and certain state agencies, and are subject to periodic unannounced inspections by the FDA and certain state agencies for compliance with cGMP, which impose certain procedural and documentation requirements upon us and our third-party manufacturers. Changes to the manufacturing process are strictly regulated, and, depending on the significance of the change, may require prior FDA approval before being implemented. FDA regulations also require investigation and correction of any deviations from cGMP and impose reporting requirements. Accordingly,

 

134


Table of Contents

manufacturers must continue to expend time, money and effort in the area of production and quality control to maintain compliance with cGMP and other aspects of regulatory compliance.

The FDA may withdraw approval if compliance with regulatory requirements and standards is not maintained or if problems occur after the product reaches the market. Later discovery of previously unknown problems with a product, including adverse events of unanticipated severity or frequency, or with manufacturing processes, or failure to comply with regulatory requirements, may result in revisions to the approved labeling to add new safety information; imposition of post-market studies or clinical studies to assess new safety risks; or imposition of distribution restrictions or other restrictions under a REMS program. Other potential consequences include, among other things:

 

   

restrictions on the marketing or manufacturing of the product, complete withdrawal of the product from the market or product recalls;

 

   

fines, warning letters, or untitled letters;

 

   

clinical holds on clinical studies;

 

   

refusal of the FDA to approve pending applications or supplements to approved applications, or suspension or revocation of product approvals;

 

   

product seizure or detention, or refusal to permit the import or export of products;

 

   

consent decrees, corporate integrity agreements, debarment or exclusion from federal healthcare programs;

 

   

mandated modification of promotional materials and labeling and the issuance of corrective information;

 

   

the issuance of safety alerts, Dear Healthcare Provider letters, press releases and other communications containing warnings or other safety information about the product; or

 

   

injunctions or the imposition of civil or criminal penalties.

The FDA closely regulates the marketing, labeling, advertising and promotion of drug products. A company can make only those claims relating to safety and efficacy, purity and potency that are approved by the FDA and in accordance with the provisions of the approved label. The FDA and other agencies actively enforce the laws and regulations prohibiting the promotion of off-label uses. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in, among other things, adverse publicity, warning letters, corrective advertising and potential civil and criminal penalties. Physicians may prescribe, in their independent professional medical judgment, legally available products for uses that are not described in the product’s labeling and that differ from those tested by us and approved by the FDA. Physicians may believe that such off-label uses are the best treatment for many patients in varied circumstances. The FDA does not regulate the behavior of physicians in their choice of treatments. The FDA does, however, restrict manufacturer’s communications on the subject of off-label use of their products. However, companies may share truthful and not misleading information that is otherwise consistent with a product’s FDA-approved labelling.

Marketing Exclusivity

Market exclusivity provisions authorized under the FDCA can delay the submission or the approval of certain marketing applications. The FDCA provides a five-year period of non-patent marketing exclusivity within the United States to the first applicant to obtain approval of an NDA for a new chemical entity. A drug is a new chemical entity if the FDA has not previously approved any other new drug containing the same active moiety, which is the molecule or ion responsible for the action of the drug substance. During the exclusivity period, the FDA may not approve or even accept for review an abbreviated new drug application, or ANDA, or an NDA

 

135


Table of Contents

submitted under Section 505(b)(2), or 505(b)(2) NDA, submitted by another company for another drug containing the same active moiety, regardless of whether the drug is intended for the same indication as the original innovative drug or for another indication, where the applicant does not own or have a legal right of reference to all the data required for approval. However, an application may be submitted after four years if it contains a certification of patent invalidity or non-infringement to one of the patents listed with the FDA by the innovator NDA holder.

The FDCA alternatively provides three years of marketing exclusivity for an NDA, or supplement to an existing NDA if new clinical investigations, other than bioavailability studies, that were conducted or sponsored by the applicant are deemed by the FDA to be essential to the approval of the application, for example new indications, dosages or strengths of an existing drug. This three-year exclusivity covers only the modification for which the drug received approval on the basis of the new clinical investigations and does not prohibit the FDA from approving ANDAs or 505(b)(2) NDAs for drugs containing the active agent for the original indication or condition of use. Five-year and three-year exclusivity will not delay the submission or approval of a full NDA. However, an applicant submitting a full NDA would be required to conduct or obtain a right of reference to any preclinical studies and adequate and well-controlled clinical trials necessary to demonstrate safety and effectiveness.

Pediatric exclusivity is another type of marketing exclusivity available in the United States. Pediatric exclusivity provides for an additional six months of marketing exclusivity attached to another period of exclusivity if a sponsor conducts clinical trials in children in response to a written request from the FDA and meets other conditions. The issuance of a written request does not require the sponsor to undertake the described clinical trials. In addition, orphan drug exclusivity, as described above, may offer a seven-year period of marketing exclusivity, except in certain circumstances.

FDA Regulation of Companion Diagnostics

If safe and effective use of a drug depends on an in vitro diagnostic, then the FDA may require approval or clearance of that diagnostic, known as a companion diagnostic, at the same time that the FDA approves the therapeutic product. In August 2014, the FDA issued final guidance clarifying the requirements that will apply to approval of therapeutic products and in vitro companion diagnostics. According to the guidance, if FDA determines that a companion diagnostic device is essential to the safe and effective use of a novel therapeutic product or indication, FDA may will not approve the drug or new indication if the companion diagnostic device is not also approved or cleared for that indication. Approval or clearance of the companion diagnostic device will ensure that the device has been adequately evaluated and has adequate performance characteristics in the intended population. The review of in vitro companion diagnostics in conjunction with the review of our product candidates will, therefore, likely involve coordination of review by the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research and the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health Office of In Vitro Diagnostics and Radiological Health.

Under the FDCA, in vitro diagnostics, including companion diagnostics, are regulated as medical devices. In the United States, the FDCA and its implementing regulations, and other federal and state statutes and regulations govern, among other things, medical device design and development, preclinical and clinical testing, premarket clearance or approval, registration and listing, manufacturing, labeling, storage, advertising and promotion, sales and distribution, export and import, and post-market surveillance. Unless an exemption applies, diagnostic tests require marketing clearance or approval from the FDA prior to commercial distribution. The two primary types of FDA marketing authorization applicable to a medical device are clearance of a premarket notification pursuant to Section 510(k) of the FDCA, also called 510(k) clearance, and approval of a premarket approval application, or PMA.

The PMA process, including the gathering of clinical and preclinical data and the submission to and review by the FDA, can take several years or longer. It involves a rigorous premarket review during which the applicant must prepare and provide the FDA with reasonable assurance of the device’s safety and effectiveness and information about the device and its components regarding, among other things, device design, manufacturing and labeling. PMA applications are subject to an application fee. In addition, PMAs for certain devices must generally include the results from extensive preclinical and adequate and well-controlled clinical trials to establish the safety and effectiveness of the device for each indication for which FDA approval is sought. As part of the PMA review, the FDA will typically inspect the manufacturer’s facilities for compliance with the

 

136


Table of Contents

Quality System Regulation, or QSR, which imposes elaborate testing, control, documentation and other quality assurance requirements.

If the FDA’s evaluation of the PMA application is favorable, the FDA typically issues an approvable letter requiring the applicant’s agreement to specific conditions, such as changes in labeling, or specific additional information, such as submission of final labeling, in order to secure final approval of the PMA. If the FDA’s evaluation of the PMA or manufacturing facilities is not favorable, the FDA will deny approval of the PMA or issue a not approvable letter. A not approvable letter will outline the deficiencies in the application and, where practical, will identify what is necessary to make the PMA approvable. The FDA may also determine that additional clinical trials are necessary, in which case the PMA approval may be delayed for several months or years while the trials are conducted and then the data submitted in an amendment to the PMA. If the FDA concludes that the applicable criteria have been met, the FDA will issue a PMA for the approved indications, which can be more limited than those originally sought by the applicant. The PMA can include post-approval conditions that the FDA believes necessary to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the device, including, among other things, restrictions on labeling, promotion, sale and distribution. Once granted, PMA approval may be withdrawn by the FDA if compliance with post-approval requirements, conditions of approval or other regulatory standards are not maintained or problems are identified following initial marketing.

After a device is placed on the market, it remains subject to significant regulatory requirements. Medical devices may be marketed only for the uses and indications for which they are cleared or approved. Device manufacturers must also establish registration and device listings with the FDA. A medical device manufacturer’s manufacturing processes and those of its suppliers are required to comply with the applicable portions of the QSR, which cover the methods and documentation of the design, testing, production, processes, controls, quality assurance, labeling, packaging and shipping of medical devices. Domestic facility records and manufacturing processes are subject to periodic unscheduled inspections by the FDA. The FDA also may inspect foreign facilities that export products to the United States.

Other U.S. Healthcare Laws

Pharmaceutical companies like us are subject to additional healthcare regulation and enforcement by the federal government and by authorities in the states and foreign jurisdictions in which they conduct their business. Such regulation and enforcement may constrain the financial arrangements and relationships through which we research, develop, and ultimately, sell, market and distribute any products for which we obtain marketing approval. Such laws include, without limitation, federal and state anti-kickback, fraud and abuse, and false claims laws, such as the federal Anti-Kickback Statute and the federal civil False Claims Act, as well as federal and state, data privacy and security laws and regulations, and transparency laws and regulations with respect to drug pricing and payments and other transfers of value made by pharmaceutical manufacturers to physicians and other health care providers, such as the federal Physician Payments Sunshine Act.

Violation of any of such laws or any other governmental regulations that apply may result in significant criminal, civil and administrative penalties including damages, fines, imprisonment, disgorgement, additional reporting requirements and oversight if we become subject to a Corporate Integrity Agreement or similar agreement to resolve allegations of non-compliance with these laws, contractual damages, reputational harm, diminished profits and future earnings, disgorgement, exclusion from participation in government healthcare programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, and the curtailment or restructuring of our operations.

U.S. Coverage and Reimbursement

Significant uncertainty exists as to the coverage and reimbursement status of any product candidate for which we may seek regulatory approval. Sales in the United States will depend, in part, on the availability of sufficient coverage and adequate reimbursement from third-party payors, which include government health programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE and the Veterans Administration, as well as managed care organizations and private health insurers. Prices at which we or our customers seek reimbursement for our product candidates can be subject to challenge, reduction or denial by third-party payors. For products

 

137


Table of Contents

administered under the supervision of a physician, obtaining coverage and adequate reimbursement may be particularly difficult because of the higher prices often associated with such drugs.

The process for determining whether a third-party payor will provide coverage for a product is typically separate from the process for setting the reimbursement rate that the payor will pay for the product. In the United States, there is no uniform policy among payors for coverage or reimbursement. Decisions regarding whether to cover any of a product, the extent of coverage and amount of reimbursement to be provided are made on a plan-by-plan basis. Third-party payors often rely upon Medicare coverage policy and payment limitations in setting their own coverage and reimbursement policies, but also have their own methods and approval processes. Therefore, coverage and reimbursement for products can differ significantly from payor to payor. As a result, the coverage determination process is often a time-consuming and costly process that can require manufacturers to provide scientific and clinical support for the use of a product to each payor separately, with no assurance that coverage and adequate reimbursement will be applied consistently or obtained in the first instance.

Third-party payors are increasingly challenging the price and examining the medical necessity and cost-effectiveness of medical products and services, in addition to their safety and efficacy. Adoption of price controls and cost-containment measures, and adoption of more restrictive policies in jurisdictions with existing controls and measures, could further limit sales of any product that receives approval. Third-party payors may not consider our product candidates to be medically necessary or cost-effective compared to other available therapies, or the rebate percentages required to secure favorable coverage may not yield an adequate margin over cost or may not enable us to maintain price levels sufficient to realize an appropriate return on our investment in drug development. Additionally, decreases in third-party reimbursement for any product or a decision by a third-party payor not to cover a product could reduce physician usage and patient demand for the product.

Moreover, as a condition of participating in, and having products covered under, certain federal healthcare programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, we may become subject to federal laws and regulations that require pharmaceutical manufacturers to calculate and report certain pricing metrics to the government, including the Average Manufacturer Price, or AMP, and Best Price under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program, the Medicare Average Sales Price, the 340B Ceiling Price, and Non-Federal AMP reported to the Department of Veteran Affairs, and with respect to Medicaid, pay statutory rebates on utilization of manufacturers’ products by Medicaid beneficiaries. Compliance with these laws and regulations will require significant resources and may have a material adverse effect on our revenues.

U.S. Healthcare Reform

In the United States, there has been, and continues to be, several legislative and regulatory changes and proposed changes regarding the healthcare system that could prevent or delay marketing approval of product candidates, restrict or regulate post-approval activities, and affect the profitable sale of product candidates.

Among policy makers and payors in the United States, there is significant interest in promoting changes in healthcare systems with the stated goals of containing healthcare costs, improving quality and/or expanding access. In the United States, the pharmaceutical industry has been a particular focus of these efforts and has been significantly affected by major legislative initiatives. In March 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, collectively referred to as the ACA, was passed, which substantially changed the way healthcare is financed by both governmental and private insurers, and significantly affected the pharmaceutical industry. Among other changes, the ACA increased the minimum level of Medicaid rebates payable by manufacturers of brand name drugs from 15.1% to 23.1%; required collection of rebates for drugs paid by Medicaid managed care organizations; required manufacturers to participate in a coverage gap discount program, in which manufacturers must agree to offer point-of-sale discounts off negotiated prices of applicable brand drugs to eligible beneficiaries during their coverage gap period, as a condition for the manufacturer’s outpatient drugs to be covered under Medicare Part D; imposed a non-deductible annual fee on pharmaceutical manufacturers or importers who sell certain “branded prescription drugs” to specified federal government programs, implemented a new methodology by which rebates owed by manufacturers under the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program are calculated for drugs that are

 

138


Table of Contents

inhaled, infused, instilled, implanted, or injected; expanded eligibility criteria for Medicaid programs; created a new Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute to oversee, identify priorities in, and conduct comparative clinical effectiveness research, along with funding for such research; and established a Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation at the CMS to test innovative payment and service delivery models to lower Medicare and Medicaid spending, potentially including prescription drug spending.

Since its enactment, there have been judicial and political challenges to certain aspects of the ACA. On June 17, 2021, the U.S. Supreme Court dismissed the most recent judicial challenge to the ACA brought by several states without specifically ruling on the constitutionality of the ACA. Prior to the Supreme Court’s decision, President Biden issued an executive order to initiate a special enrollment period from February 15, 2021 through August 15, 2021 for purposes of obtaining health insurance coverage through the ACA marketplace. The executive order also instructed certain governmental agencies to review and reconsider their existing policies and rules that limit access to healthcare, including among others, reexamining Medicaid demonstration projects and waiver programs that include work requirements, and policies that create unnecessary barriers to obtaining access to health insurance coverage through Medicaid or the ACA. It is unclear how the healthcare reform measures of the Biden administration or other efforts, if any, to challenge, repeal or replace the ACA will impact the ACA.

In addition, other legislative changes have been adopted since the ACA was enacted. Most recently, in March 2021, Congress enacted the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which, among other things, eliminated the statutory cap on drug manufacturers’ Medicaid Drug Rebate Program rebate liability, effective January 1, 2024. Under current law enacted as part of the ACA, drug manufacturers’ Medicaid Drug Rebate Program rebate liability is capped at 100% of the average manufacturer price for a covered outpatient drug. Other changes included aggregate reductions to Medicare payments to providers of 2% per fiscal year, which went into effect on April 1, 2013 and, due to subsequent legislative amendments to the statute, including the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018, will remain in effect into 2031, with the exception of a temporary suspension from May 1, 2020 through December 31, 2021, unless additional Congressional action is taken. On January 2, 2013, the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 was signed into law, which, among other things, reduced Medicare payments to several providers, including hospitals, and increased the statute of limitations period for the government to recover overpayments to providers from three to five years.

Moreover, there has recently been heightened governmental scrutiny over the manner in which manufacturers set prices for their marketed products. This has resulted in several Congressional inquiries and proposed and enacted federal and state regulations designed to, among other things, bring more transparency to product pricing, review the relationship between pricing and manufacturer patient programs, and reform government program reimbursement methodologies for pharmaceutical products.

Although a number of these and other measures may require additional authorization to become effective, Congress and the Biden administration have each indicated that it will continue to seek new legislative and/or administrative measures to control drug costs. Individual states in the United States have also become increasingly active in implementing regulations designed to control pharmaceutical product pricing, including price or patient reimbursement constraints, discounts, restrictions on certain product access and marketing cost disclosure and transparency measures, and, in some cases, designed to encourage importation from other countries and bulk purchasing. In addition, regional healthcare authorities and individual hospitals are increasingly using bidding procedures to determine which drugs and suppliers will be included in their healthcare programs. Furthermore, there has been increased interest by third party payors and governmental authorities in reference pricing systems and publication of discounts and list prices.

Human Capital

As of August 15, 2021, we had 16 full-time employees, including a total of six employees with M.D. or Ph.D. degrees. Of these full-time employees, 14 employees are engaged in research and development. None of

 

139


Table of Contents

our employees are represented by labor unions or covered by collective bargaining agreements. We consider our relationship with our employees to be good.

Our human capital resources objectives include, as applicable, identifying, recruiting, retaining, incentivizing and integrating our existing and additional employees. The principal purposes of our equity incentive plans are to attract, retain and motivate selected employees, consultants and directors through the granting of stock-based compensation awards. We value our employees and regularly benchmark total rewards we provide, such as short and long-term compensation, 401(k) contributions, health, welfare and quality of life benefits, paid time off and personal leave, against our industry peers to ensure we remain competitive and attractive to potential new hires.

Facilities

Our corporate headquarters are located in Carlsbad, California, where we lease approximately 4,734 square feet of laboratory and office space. This lease commenced in the second quarter of 2021 and will terminate five years following the lease commencement date as defined in the lease agreement. We believe that our existing facilities are adequate for our current needs and that suitable additional or alternative space will be available in the future on commercially reasonable terms, if required.

Legal proceedings

From time to time, we may be involved in legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of our business. We are not presently a party to any legal proceedings that, in the opinion of management, would have a material adverse effect on our business. Regardless of outcome, litigation can have an adverse impact on us due to defense and settlement costs, diversion of management resources, negative publicity and reputation harm, and other factors.

 

140


Table of Contents

MANAGEMENT

Executive officers and directors

The following table sets forth the name, age as of the date of this prospectus and position of each of our executive officers and directors.

 

Name

  

Age

    

Position

Executive Officers:

     

Todd Harris, Ph.D.

     42      President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

Daniel Bensen

     47      Chief Operating Officer

Esther van den Boom

     42      Chief Financial Officer

Ron Swanson, Ph.D.

     58      Chief Scientific Officer

Hiroomi Tada, M.D., Ph.D.

     57      Chief Medical Officer

Robert L. Hudkins, Ph.D.

     67      Chief Technology Officer

Piyush Patel, Ph.D.

     56      Chief Development Officer

Non-Employee Directors:

     

Isan Chen, M.D. (2)

     59      Director

Gilla Kaplan, Ph.D. (3)

     74      Director

Nina Kjellson (2)

     47      Director

Melissa McCracken, Ph.D. (1)

     34      Director

Robert More (1)(3)

     54      Director

Jake Simson, Ph.D. (3)

     35      Director

Siddarth Subramony, Ph.D. (2)

     34      Director

Rehan Verjee (1)

     41      Director

 

(1)

Member of the Audit Committee

 

(2)

Member of the Compensation Committee

 

(3)

Member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

Executive team

Executive Officers

Todd Harris, Ph.D. has served as our President, Chief Executive Officer and Secretary since November 2018, as our Treasurer since February 2019, and as a member of our board of directors since August 2018. Prior to co-founding Tyra, Dr. Harris served in various roles, most recently as Head of Corporate Development and a director at Sienna Biopharmaceuticals, Inc. (SNNA), or Sienna, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, from January 2016 to July 2018 and previously as the founder, Chief Executive Officer, and director of Sienna (then called Sienna Labs) from April 2013 to January 2016. In September 2019, Sienna Biopharmaceuticals filed for voluntary petition to allow restructuring under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code and ceased its operations in December 2019. Before Sienna, Dr. Harris was a consultant at McKinsey & Company in the Health Care Practice Division from September 2008 to December 2012. Dr. Harris currently serves on the board of directors of Primmune Therapeutics, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company focused on the second arm, innate immune system. Dr. Harris holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering from Brigham Young University, a Master of Science Degree in Bioengineering from the University of California, San Diego, and a Ph.D. in Medical Engineering and Medical Physics from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. We believe that Dr. Harris’ valuable expertise and the perspective he brings in his capacity as our President and Chief Executive Officer, his extensive experience and knowledge in the life sciences industry and his education provide him with the qualifications and skills to serve on our board of directors.

Daniel Bensen has served as our Chief Operating Officer since November 2018 and previously also served as a member of our board of directors from November 2018 to January 2020. Prior to co-founding Tyra with Dr. Harris, Mr. Bensen served as Head of Immunology and Protein Chemistry at Cidara Therapeutics, Inc.

 

141


Table of Contents

from March 2014 until November 2018. Before Cidara, Mr. Bensen served as Principal Scientist, Protein Chemistry, and Structural Biology at Trius Therapeutics, Inc. from March 2007 until February 2014. Mr. Bensen holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biology from Point Loma Nazarene University in San Diego, California, and an MBA degree from the University of Southern California, Marshall School of Business.

Esther van den Boom has served as our Chief Financial Officer since April 2021. Ms. van den Boom served as Chief Accounting Officer of Artiva Biotherapeutics, Inc., from August 2020 to May 2021 and Acting Chief Financial Officer from April 2019 to August 2020. Since April 2013, Ms. van den Boom has served as the Managing Partner of van den Boom & Associates, LLC, and in that capacity provided outside consulting services to Tyra from August 2020 until her appointment as Chief Financial Officer in April 2021. Prior to starting van den Boom & Associates, LLC, Ms. van den Boom was with Ernst & Young LLP, from December 2004 to March 2013, in their San Diego office’s audit practice. Ms. van den Boom received a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of California, San Diego and a Master of Science degree in Accountancy from San Diego State University and is a licensed CPA.

Ronald V. Swanson, Ph.D. has served as our Chief Scientific Officer since January 2020 and as our consultant from August 2019 until January 2020. Prior to joining Tyra, Dr. Swanson served as Director/Senior Director, Biologics at Johnson & Johnson, Inc. from December 2006 until April 2019 where he ran the Lead Discovery & Optimization group focused on engineering of antibodies, peptides and protein therapeutics. Prior to Johnson & Johnson, Inc., Dr. Swanson was co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer at ActiveSight, the contract crystallography arm of Rigaku Americas Corporation. Dr. Swanson holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biochemistry and Cell Biology from the University of California, San Diego, and a Ph.D. degree in Molecular Biology from the University of California, Berkeley.

Hiroomi Tada, M.D., Ph.D. has served as our Chief Medical Officer since November 2020. Prior to joining Tyra, Dr. Tada served as Chief Medical Officer at Notable Labs, Inc., a personalized precision oncology company from March 2019 until November 2020. Before Notable Labs, Inc., Dr. Tada served in various roles at Incyte Corp. as Vice President of Translational Sciences for Target Therapies from January 2018 until February 2019, and as Executive Director of Immuno-Oncology Clinical Development from May 2015 until January 2019. Dr. Tada also served in clinical development roles at GlaxoSmithKline and AstraZeneca. Dr. Tada holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Haverford College, a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Thomas Jefferson University and an M.D. from Jefferson Medical College. Dr. Tada completed his fellowship in Surgical Oncology at the University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center. Prior to joining the pharmaceutical industry, Dr. Tada held faculty appointments as Assistant Professor of Surgery at the University of Massachusetts Medical School and Temple University School of Medicine.

Robert L. Hudkins, Ph.D. has served as our Chief Technology Officer since January 2021 and served as our Vice President, Chemistry from January 2020 until January 2021. Prior to joining Tyra, Dr. Hudkins was a consultant at MedChem Consulting LLC, a company providing consultancy services in drug discovery and medicinal chemistry, from September 2018 until January 2020. Before MedChem Consulting LLC, Dr. Hudkins spent his career as Distinguished Scientist III / Senior Research Fellow in Medicinal Chemistry at Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. from October 2011 until August 2018. Dr. Hudkins holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Barton College, a Master of Science degree in Organic Chemistry from Old Dominion University and a Ph.D. in Medical Chemistry from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Piyush Patel, Ph.D. has served as our Chief Development Officer since January 2021. Prior to joining Tyra, Dr. Patel was the Chief Scientific Officer at CinRx Pharma, LLC from January 2016 until January 2021. Prior to CinRx Pharma, LLC, Dr. Patel was Senior Director at Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. from January 1996 until December 2015. With over 29 years of drug development experience, his expertise involves all aspects of nonclinical and product development of small molecules. He has authored several scientific publications and is a co-inventor on multiple patents. Dr. Patel holds a Bachelor of Pharmacy from the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, and a Master of Science and Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Temple University.

 

142


Table of Contents

Non-Employee Directors

Isan Chen, M.D. has served as our Chief Medical Advisor since February 2019 and a member of our board of directors since June 2020. Dr. Chen has served as the Chief Executive Officer at MBrace Therapeutics, Inc. since May 2020. Before MBrace Therapeutics, Inc., Dr. Chen served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Medical and Development Officer of Mirati Therapeutics, Inc. from September 2013 until May 2020. Prior to Mirati Therapeutics, Inc., Dr. Chen was previously the Chief Medical Officer of Aragon Pharmaceuticals, Inc., which was acquired by Johnson & Johnson, Inc. in July of 2013 and prior to Aragon, Dr. Chen served as Vice President of Tumor Strategy in the oncology business unit at Pfizer. Before joining Pfizer, Dr. Chen practiced medicine as a staff physician at City of Hope Medical Center and later as an assistant professor at the University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. Dr. Chen is currently a member of the board of directors of Treadwell Therapeutics, Inc. Dr. Chen holds an M.D. from University of São Paulo and completed his fellowship in Hematology and Oncology from the University of California, San Diego. Dr. Chen is board certified in internal medicine, hematology and medical oncology with more than 20 years of experience in oncology and clinical trials from first-in-humans through global registration studies. We believe that Dr. Chen’s expertise and executive experience in the life sciences industry, his experience as a director of biopharmaceutical companies and his educational background provide him with the qualifications and skills to serve on our board of directors.

Gilla Kaplan, Ph.D. has served as a member of our board of directors since March 2019. Dr. Kaplan currently serves as Chief Executive Officer and director of Gilrose Therapeutics and as Senior Advisor of Medicine Development for Global Health. Before Gilrose, Dr. Kaplan was Senior Advisor from July 2018 until December 2020 at the Bill and Melinda Gates Medical Research Institute (Gates MRI) and the Director of the Global Health Program, Tuberculosis of the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation (BMGF) from January 2014 until April 2018. Her work has encompassed developing a deep understanding of the cellular immune response and how to harness it for host adjunctive therapies. Dr. Kaplan spent her career as an academic research scientist leading her laboratory in investigations focusing on human disease, exploring novel experimental medicine approaches that modulate the immune response for disease control. She was a recipient of multiple grants from the NIH-NIAID and other funding organizations for her research. Dr. Kaplan currently serves on the board of directors of Cerecor Inc. Dr. Kaplan previously served on the board of directors at Celgene Corporation from 1998 to 2018. Dr. Kaplan received a Bachelor of Science degree from Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel and a Master of Science and Ph.D. in Cellular Immunology from University of Tromso, Norway. We believe that Dr. Kaplan’s expertise and experience in the life sciences industry, her experience as a director of biotechnology companies and her educational background provide her with the qualifications and skills to serve on our board of directors.

Nina Kjellson has served as a member of our board of directors since May 2018. She is currently an investment professional at Canaan Partners and joined the venture capital firm in 2015. Ms. Kjellson is a Managing Member of Canaan Partners X LLC, the general partner of Canaan X LP, a Managing Member of Canaan Partners XI LLC, the general partner of Canaan XI LP, and a Managing Member of Canaan Partners XII LLC, the general partner of Canaan XII LP. As an investment professional at Canaan, she oversees investments in in biopharmaceutical companies that aim to transform care for patients. In addition to Tyra, some of the investments she actively oversees include PACT Pharma, Sardona, Inc., Tizona Therapeutics, Inc., Trishula, Inc., Vineti, Inc. and WellTok, Inc., on whose boards she has served since December 2020, February 2021, February 2016, August, 2020, January 2020, April 2018 and March 2013, respectively. Ms. Kjellson also previously led investments in Labrys Biologics, Inc. (acquired by Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.), Tesaro, Inc., Eiger Biopharmaceuticals, Inc., Trius Therapeutics LLC (acquired by Cubist Pharmaceuticals, Inc.) and NovaCardia, Inc. (acquired by Merck & Co., Inc.), among others. As a leader of Canaan’s Women of Venture program, Ms. Kjellson is a vocal advocate for women entrepreneurs and investors. She serves on the board of Essential Access Health, Girl Effect and Life Science Cares. She has co-developed an immersive curriculum for diversity and inclusion in healthcare with Impact Experience, called Impact Experience: HealthEquity. She is an Aspen Institute Health Innovators Fellow. Previously, Ms. Kjellson was a General Partner at InterWest Partners, where she invested in life sciences companies for 14 years and held positions at Bay City Capital, Oracle Partners and

 

143


Table of Contents

the Kaiser Family Foundation. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Human Biology from Stanford University. We believe that Ms. Kjellson’s expertise and experience in the venture capital industry and her experience as a director of biopharmaceutical companies provide her with the qualifications and skills to serve on our board of directors.

Melissa McCracken, Ph.D. has served as a member of our board of directors since March 2021. Since September 2019, Dr. McCracken has served as a senior associate and currently as a principal at Nextech Invest Ltd., a cancer therapeutics-focused venture capital firm focused almost exclusively on precision therapeutics. Prior to Nextech Invest Ltd., Dr. McCracken was an associate and then senior associate at Third Rock Ventures, LLC from March 2017 until August 2019, a venture capital firm where she focused on scientific due diligence, partnership development and new company formation in oncology and immunology. At Third Rock Ventures, Dr. McCracken helped build and launch Celsius Therapeutics Inc., a company focused on discovering precision therapeutics for oncology and autoimmune from March 2018 to March 2019. Dr. McCracken currently serves as a board observer of IconOvir Bio, Inc., and was previously a board member of ImaginAB Inc. and board observer of Silverback Therapeutics, Inc. Dr. McCracken holds a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of California, Davis and a Ph.D. in Pharmacology from the University of California, Los Angeles. We believe that Dr. McCracken’s expertise and experience in the venture capital industry, her experience as a director of biopharmaceutical companies and her educational background provide her with the qualifications and skills to serve on our board of directors.

Robert More has served as a member of our board of directors since November 2018 and our Chairman since March 2019. Since November 2016, Mr. More has served as Managing Director of Alta Partners, a venture capital firm. From July 2013 to May 2015, Mr. More served as Senior Advisor for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and led its Global Health Venture Initiative. He served as a General Partner of venture capital firms Frazier Healthcare Ventures and Domain Associates from September 2008 to June 2013 and from June 1996 to July 2008, respectively. Mr. More currently serves on the board of directors of Vir Biotechnology, Inc. He also currently serves on the board of directors of the following private companies: Affinivax, Inc., a biotechnology company, Qihan Biotechnology Co. Ltd., a biotechnology company, and Variant Bio, Inc., a biotechnology company. Mr. More previously served on the board of directors of the following public companies: Achaogen, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, Cartiva, Inc., a medical device company acquired by Wright Medical Group N.V., Neothetics Inc., a pharmaceutical company, Sienna Biopharmaceuticals, now Sienna Biopharmaceuticals, Inc., a biotechnology company, Glaukos Corporation, a medical technology company, and IntraLase Corp., a medical device company acquired by Advanced Medical Optics in 2007. He also previously served on the board of directors of the following life sciences companies: ESP Pharma, Inc., Proxima Therapeutics, Inc., eGenesis Bio, Utah Capital Investment Corporation (UCIC), NovaCardia, Inc., Carticept Medical, Inc., Esprit Pharma, Inc. and Oceana Therapeutics, Inc. Mr. More was a founding member of the board of directors of the Kauffman Fellows Program and previously served on the board of directors of One Revolution and The Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND). Mr. More currently serves on one of the governing boards of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO). He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology from Middlebury College and an MBA from the Darden School of Business Administration at the University of Virginia. We believe that Mr. More is qualified to serve on our board of directors due to his experience serving on the board of directors of biotechnology companies, his extensive experience as a director of public companies, and his investment experience in the life sciences industry.

Jake Simson, Ph.D. has served as a member of our board of directors since January 2020. Since December 2020, Dr. Simson has served as partner at RA Capital Management L.P., a multi-stage investment manager dedicated to evidence-based investing in public and private healthcare and life science companies developing drugs, medical devices, and diagnostics. Previously, Dr. Simson served as an associate, analyst and principal at RA Capital Management from July 2014 to December 2020. Dr. Simson currently serves on the board of directors for Janux Therapeutics, Inc. and for the following privately held companies: Xenikos, B.V, AavantiBio, Inc., and DiCE Molecules Inc. Dr. Simson holds his Bachelor of Science in Materials Science and Engineering from MIT and a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Johns Hopkins University. In his doctoral

 

144


Table of Contents

research, he investigated clinically translatable treatments for musculoskeletal tissue repair using injectable hydrogels. We believe that Dr. Simson’s expertise and experience in biotech investing, his experience as a director of biopharmaceutical companies and his educational background provide him with the qualifications and skills to serve on our board of directors.

Siddarth Subramony, Ph.D. has served as a member of our board of directors since January 2020. Since September 2018, Dr. Subramony has served as Vice President for Boxer Capital, where he is responsible for conducting due diligence of public and private investments in healthcare. Prior to joining Boxer, Dr. Subramony was a Vice President at H.I.G. Capital from February 2016 until August 2018 where he was a member of the investment team for the firm’s dedicated healthcare fund, evaluating public and private investment opportunities in the life sciences and representing H.I.G. on the board of Leiters Pharmacy. Prior to joining H.I.G., Dr. Subramony was a management consultant at the Boston Consulting Group (BCG) from July 2015 until February 2016 and served as a member of the firm’s healthcare practice. Dr. Subramony received a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering and Economics, summa cum laude, from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, an MBA from Harvard Business School and a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Columbia University, where he was an NSF Graduate Research Fellow. He has authored several scientific publications and is a co-inventor on multiple patents. We believe that Dr. Subramony’s expertise and experience investing in the life science industry and his educational background provide him with the qualifications and skills to serve on our board of directors.

Rehan Verjee has served as a member of our board of directors since June 2021. From September 2018 to March 2021, Mr. Verjee has served as President of EMD Serono and Global Head of the Innovative Medicine Franchises for Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, where he led the North American biopharmaceutical business across the U.S. and Canada in addition to leading the global oncology and neurology & immunology specialty medicine franchises for the healthcare business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. Prior to this role, Mr. Verjee served as Executive Vice President, Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer since October 2015, leading the global franchises of oncology, neurology & immunology, and infertility, in addition to global business development, market access, strategy and portfolio management, marketing operations and the medical device and services unit. Prior to this, he led the Canadian operations as Managing Director of EMD Serono Canada Inc. Mr. Verjee is currently a member of the board of directors of Massachusetts Biotechnology Council. Mr. Verjee holds a Master’s Degree in Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry from the University of Oxford in the U.K, We believe that Mr. Verjee’s experience as a senior executive in the life science industry and his educational background provide him with the qualifications and skills to serve on our board of directors.

Family Relationships and Other Arrangements

There are no family relationships among our directors and executive officers. Pursuant to our amended and restated voting agreement, which will terminate upon the completion of this offering, the following directors were designated as members of our board of directors:

 

   

Dr. Harris, designated pursuant to his service as our Chief Executive Officer;

 

   

Nina Kjellson, designated by Canaan XI L.P. and its affiliates;

 

   

Melissa McCracken, designated by Nextech VI Oncology SCSp;

 

   

Robert More, designated by Alta Partners NextGen Fund II, L.P. and its affiliates;

 

   

Jake Simson, designated by RA Capital Healthcare Fund, LP, RA Capital Nexus Fund, L.P. and their affiliates; and

 

   

Siddarth Subramony, designated by Boxer Capital, LLC and its affiliates.

 

145


Table of Contents

Board Composition and Election of Directors

Director Independence

Our board of directors currently consists of nine members. Our board of directors has determined that all of our directors, other than Dr. Harris, are independent directors in accordance with the listing requirements of the Nasdaq Global Market. The Nasdaq independence definition includes a series of objective tests, including that the director is not, and has not been for at least three years, one of our employees and that neither the director nor any of his or her family members has engaged in various types of business dealings with us. In addition, as required by Nasdaq rules, our board of directors has made a subjective determination as to each independent director that no relationships exist, which, in the opinion of our board of directors, would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of the director. In making these determinations, our board of directors reviewed and discussed information provided by the directors and us with regard to each director’s business and personal activities and relationships as they may relate to us and our management. There are no family relationships among any of our directors or executive officers.

Classified Board of Directors

Our business and affairs are organized under the direction of our board of directors, which currently consists of nine members. The primary responsibilities of our board of directors are to provide oversight, strategic guidance, counseling and direction to our management. Our board of directors meets on a regular basis and on an ad hoc basis as required.

In accordance with the terms of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws, which will become effective immediately prior to and upon the completion of this offering, respectively, we will divide our board of directors into three classes, as follows:

 

   

Class I, which will consist of Dr. Harris, Ms. Kjellson and Dr. Subramony, whose terms will expire at our annual meeting of stockholders to be held in 2022;

 

   

Class II, which will consist of Dr. Chen, Dr. Kaplan and Mr. More, whose terms will expire at our annual meeting of stockholders to be held in 2023; and

 

   

Class III, which will consist of Dr. McCracken, Dr. Simson and Mr. Verjee, whose terms will expire at our annual meeting of stockholders to be held in 2024.

At each annual meeting of stockholders to be held after the initial classification, the successors to directors whose terms then expire will serve until the third annual meeting following their election and until their successors are duly elected and qualified. Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation that will go into effect upon the completion of this offering will provide that the authorized number of directors may be changed only by resolution of the board of directors. Any additional directorships resulting from an increase in the number of directors will be distributed among the three classes so that, as nearly as possible, each class will consist of one-third of the directors. The division of our board of directors into three classes with staggered three-year terms may delay or prevent a change of our management or a change in control of our company. Our directors may be removed only for cause by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds of our outstanding voting stock entitled to vote in the election of directors.

Board Leadership Structure

Our board of directors is currently chaired by Mr. More who has authority, among other things, to call and preside over board of directors meetings, to set meeting agendas and to determine materials to be distributed to the board of directors. Accordingly, the Chairman has substantial ability to shape the work of the board of

 

146


Table of Contents

directors. We believe that separation of the positions of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer reinforces the independence of the board of directors in its oversight of our business and affairs. In addition, we have a separate chair for each committee of our board of directors. The chair of each committee is expected to report annually to our board of directors on the activities of their committee in fulfilling their responsibilities as detailed in their respective charters or specify any shortcomings should that be the case.

Role of the Board in Risk Oversight

The audit committee of our board of directors is primarily responsible for overseeing our risk management processes on behalf of our board of directors. Going forward, we expect that the audit committee will receive reports from management periodically regarding our assessment of risks. In addition, the audit committee reports regularly to our board of directors, which also considers our risk profile. The audit committee and our board of directors focus on the most significant risks we face and our general risk management strategies. While our board of directors oversees our risk management, management is responsible for day-to-day risk management processes. Our board of directors expects management to consider risk and risk management in each business decision, to proactively develop and monitor risk management strategies and processes for day-to-day activities and to effectively implement risk management strategies adopted by the audit committee and our board of directors. We believe this division of responsibilities is the most effective approach for addressing the risks we face and that our board of directors’ leadership structure, which also emphasizes the independence of our board of directors in its oversight of its business and affairs, supports this approach.

Board Committees and Independence

Our board of directors has established an audit committee, a compensation committee and a nominating and corporate governance committee. Our board of directors may establish other committees to facilitate the management of our business. The composition and functions of each committee are described below. Members serve on these committees until their resignation or until otherwise determined by our board of directors. Each committee has adopted a written charter that satisfies the applicable rules and regulations of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, the SEC and Nasdaq Listing Rules, which we will post on our website, www.tyra.bio, upon the completion of this offering.

Audit committee

The audit committee’s main function is to oversee our accounting and financial reporting processes and the audits of our consolidated financial statements. This committee’s responsibilities include, among other things:

 

   

appointing our independent registered public accounting firm;

 

   

evaluating the qualifications, independence and performance of our independent registered public accounting firm;

 

   

approving the audit and non-audit services to be performed by our independent registered public accounting firm;

 

   

reviewing the design, implementation, adequacy and effectiveness of our internal accounting controls and our critical accounting policies;

 

   

discussing with management and the independent registered public accounting firm the results of our annual audit and the review of our quarterly unaudited financial statements;

 

   

reviewing, overseeing and monitoring the integrity of our financial statements and our compliance with legal and regulatory requirements as they relate to financial statements or accounting matters;

 

147


Table of Contents
   

reviewing on a periodic basis, or as appropriate, any investment policy and recommending to our board of directors any changes to such investment policy;

 

   

reviewing with management and our auditors any earnings announcements and other public announcements regarding our results of operations;

 

   

preparing the report that the SEC requires in our annual proxy statement;

 

   

reviewing and approving any related party transactions and reviewing and monitoring compliance with our code of conduct and ethics; and

 

   

reviewing and evaluating, at least annually, the performance of the audit committee and its members including compliance of the audit committee with its charter.

The members of our audit committee are Dr. McCracken, Mr. More and Mr. Verjee. Mr. Verjee serves as the chairperson of the committee. All members of our audit committee meet the requirements for financial literacy under the applicable rules and regulations of the SEC and Nasdaq. Our board of directors has determined that Mr. Verjee is an “audit committee financial expert” as defined by applicable SEC rules and has the requisite financial sophistication as defined under the applicable Nasdaq listing standards. Our board of directors has determined each of Dr. McCracken, Mr. More and Mr. Verjee is independent under the applicable rules of the SEC and Nasdaq. Upon the listing of our common stock on Nasdaq, the audit committee will operate under a written charter, which the audit committee will review and evaluate at least annually.

Compensation committee

Our compensation committee approves policies relating to compensation and benefits of our officers and employees. The compensation committee approves corporate goals and objectives relevant to the compensation of our Chief Executive Officer and other executive officers, evaluates the performance of these officers in light of those goals and objectives and approves the compensation of these officers based on such evaluations. The compensation committee also approves the issuance of stock options and other awards under our equity plans. The compensation committee will review and evaluate, at least annually, the performance of the compensation committee and its members, including compliance by the compensation committee with its charter.

The members of our compensation committee are Dr. Chen, Ms. Kjellson and Dr. Subramony. Ms. Kjellson serves as the chairperson of the committee. Our board of directors has determined that each of Dr. Chen, Ms. Kjellson and Dr. Subramony is independent under the applicable Nasdaq listing standards, and is a “non-employee director” as defined in Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act. Upon the listing of our common stock on Nasdaq, the compensation committee will operate under a written charter, which the compensation committee will review and evaluate at least annually.

Nominating and corporate governance committee

The nominating and corporate governance committee is responsible for assisting our board of directors in discharging the board of directors’ responsibilities regarding the identification of qualified candidates to become board members, the selection of nominees for election as directors at our annual meetings of stockholders (or special meetings of stockholders at which directors are to be elected), and the selection of candidates to fill any vacancies on our board of directors and any committees thereof. In addition, the nominating and corporate governance committee is responsible for overseeing our corporate governance policies, reporting and making recommendations to our board of directors concerning governance matters and oversight of the evaluation of our board of directors.

The members of our nominating and corporate governance committee are Dr. Kaplan, Mr. More and Dr. Simson. Mr. More serves as the chairperson of the committee. Our board of directors has determined that each of Dr. Kaplan, Mr. More and Dr. Simson is independent under the applicable Nasdaq listing standards.

 

148


Table of Contents

Upon the listing of our common stock on Nasdaq, the nominating and corporate governance committee will operate under a written charter, which the nominating and corporate governance committee will review and evaluate at least annually.

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

None of our current or former executive officers serve as a member of the compensation committee. None of our officers serve, or have served during the last completed fiscal year, on the board of directors or compensation committee, or other committee serving an equivalent function, of any other entity that has one or more of its executive officers serving as a member of our board of directors or our compensation committee. For a description of transactions between us and members of our compensation committee and affiliates of such members, please see “Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions.”

Code of Business Conduct and Ethics

We have adopted a written code of business conduct and ethics that applies to our directors, officers, and employees, including our principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, which will be effective upon the closing of this offering. Upon the closing of this offering, our code of business conduct and ethics will be available under the Corporate Governance section of our website at www.tyra.bio. In addition, we intend to post on our website all disclosures that are required by law or the listing standards of Nasdaq concerning any amendments to, or waivers from, any provision of the code. The reference to our website address does not constitute incorporation by reference of the information contained at or available through our website, and you should not consider it to be a part of this prospectus. We have included our website address as an inactive textual reference only.

Board diversity

Upon the closing of this offering, our nominating and corporate governance committee will be responsible for reviewing with the board of directors, on an annual basis, the appropriate characteristics, skills and experience required for the board of directors as a whole and its individual members. In evaluating the suitability of individual candidates (both new candidates and current members) for election or appointment, the nominating and corporate governance committee and the board of directors will take into account many factors, including the following:

 

   

personal and professional integrity, ethics, and values;

 

   

experience in corporate management, such as serving as an officer or former officer of a publicly-held company;

 

   

experience as a board member or executive officer of another publicly-held company;

 

   

strong finance experience;

 

   

diversity of expertise and experience in substantive matters pertaining to our business relative to other board members;

 

   

diversity of background and perspective, including, but not limited to, with respect to age, gender, race, place of residence, and specialized experience;

 

   

experience relevant to our business industry and with relevant social policy concerns; and

 

   

relevant academic expertise or other proficiency in an area of our business operations.

Currently, our board of directors evaluates, and following the closing of this offering will evaluate, each individual in the context of the board of directors as a whole, with the objective of assembling a group that can best maximize the success of the business and represent stockholder interests through the exercise of sound judgment using its diversity of experience in these various areas.

 

149


Table of Contents

EXECUTIVE AND DIRECTOR COMPENSATION

Overview

Our named executive officers for 2020, which consist of each person who served as our principal executive officer during 2020 and our next two most highly compensated executive officers during 2020, were:

 

   

Todd Harris, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer;

 

   

Daniel Bensen, Chief Operating Officer; and

 

   

Ronald V. Swanson, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer.

The following table sets forth information regarding compensation earned with respect to the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020 by our named executive officers.

2020 Summary Compensation Table

 

Name and Principal Position

  

Year

    

Salary
($)

   

Stock
Awards
($) (1)

    

Option
Awards
($) (1)

    

Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($) (2)

    

All Other
Compensation
($) (3)

    

Total
($)

 

Todd Harris, Ph.D.
Chief Executive Officer

     2020        350,200       677,504        —          210,120        1,012        1,238,836  

Daniel Bensen
Chief Operating Officer

     2020        257,500       211,720        128,306        115,875        1,069        714,470  

Ronald V. Swanson, Ph.D.
Chief Scientific Officer

     2020        246,771 (4)      —          128,306        111,047        900        487,024  

 

(1)

The amounts reported in the “Option Awards” column represent the aggregate grant date fair value of the stock options awarded to our named executive officers during fiscal year 2020, calculated in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board, or FASB, Accounting Standards Codification, or ASC, Topic 718. The amounts reported in the “Stock Awards” column represent the aggregate grant date fair value calculated in accordance with ASC Topic 718 related to the addition of a service-based vesting condition in January 2020 to common stock that Dr. Harris and Mr. Bensen purchased from us in August 2018, as further described below. Such grant date fair value does not take into account any estimated forfeitures. The assumptions used in calculating the grant date fair value of the awards reported in this column are set forth in Note 7 to our audited financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. The amounts reported in this column reflect the accounting cost for the stock options and do not reflect the actual economic value that will be realized by Dr. Harris, Mr. Bensen or Dr. Swanson upon the vesting of the stock awards, the exercise of the stock options or the sale of the common stock underlying such awards. See “—Narrative to Summary Compensation Table—Equity-Based Incentive Awards.”

 

(2)

The amounts disclosed represent performance bonuses earned in 2020 and paid in early 2021.

 

(3)

Each named executive officer received $900 for a telephone allowance. Life insurance premiums of $112 and $169 were paid by our company for the benefit of Dr. Harris and Mr. Bensen, respectively.

 

(4)

Dr. Swanson joined as Chief Scientific Officer in January 2020, and therefore the base salary amount set forth in the table above reflects the amount earned for the portion of 2020 in which he was employed by us. Dr. Swanson had an annual base salary rate of $257,500 in 2020.

 

150


Table of Contents

Narrative to Summary Compensation Table

Annual Base Salary

The compensation of our named executive officers is generally determined and approved by our board of directors. The 2020 base salaries of each of our named executive officers are described below under the subsection titled “—Employment Arrangements with our Named Executive Officers.”

Performance Bonus Opportunity

In addition to base salaries, our named executive officers are eligible to receive annual performance-based cash bonuses, which are designed to provide appropriate incentives to our executives to achieve defined annual corporate goals and to reward our executives for individual achievement towards these goals. The annual performance-based bonus each named executive officer is eligible to receive is generally based on the extent to which we achieve the corporate goals that our board of directors establishes each year. At the end of the year, our board of directors reviews our performance against each corporate goal and determines the extent to which we achieved each of our corporate goals.

Our board of directors will generally consider each named executive officer’s individual contributions towards reaching our annual corporate goals. For 2020, Dr. Harris’ target bonus was 40% of his then-current base salary, and for each of our other named executive officers, was 30% of their then-current base salary.

The corporate goals the board of directors established for 2020 related to development milestones. In March 2021, our board of directors determined that the 2020 goals were achieved as to 100%, with an additional 50% awarded based on other achievements of the company, as reviewed by the board of directors. The board of directors awarded cash bonuses to Dr. Harris, Mr. Bensen and Dr. Swanson based on this aggregate assessment of 150% achievement.

Equity-Based Incentive Awards

Our equity-based incentive awards are designed to align our interests and those of our stockholders with those of our employees, including our executive officers. The board of directors or an authorized committee thereof is responsible for approving equity grants.

Prior to this offering, we have granted stock options and issued restricted stock pursuant to our 2020 Plan and we have issued restricted stock outside of our 2020 Plan to certain of our executives. Following this offering, we will grant equity awards under the terms of our 2021 Plan. The terms of our equity plans are described below under the subsection titled “—Equity Incentive Plans.”

In January 2020, to induce certain investors to purchase our Series A Preferred Stock, Dr. Harris and Mr. Bensen agreed to subject 428,800 and 134,000, respectively, of shares of common stock they acquired from us in August 2018 to a vesting condition. Dr. Harris vests in 11,911 shares monthly for 35 months commencing January 31, 2020 and 11,915 shares in January of 2023, subject to his continuous service with us as of each vesting date. Mr. Bensen vests in 3,722 shares monthly for 35 months commencing January 31, 2020 and 3,730 shares in January of 2023, subject to his continuous service with us as of each vesting date. If their respective employment ends other than due to an “involuntary termination” as defined in their respective employment agreements, we may repurchase the unvested shares for $0.0001 per share. These awards will vest in full upon the consummation of a “change in control” or upon a termination without cause, death, termination due to disability or resignation for good reason. This offering will not constitute a “change in control” for purposes of these awards.

In January 2020, our board of directors granted options under our 2020 Plan to purchase 104,000 shares to each of Mr. Bensen and Dr. Swanson. Each option has an exercise price of $1.58 per share, the fair market

 

151


Table of Contents

value on the date of grant as determined by our board of directors. The options vest with respect to 25% (or 26,000) of the shares on the one-year anniversary of the January 27, 2020 and January 16, 2020 vesting commencement dates, respectively, 2,167 shares monthly thereafter for 35 months and 2,155 share on the 36th month thereafter, subject to the respective named executive officer’s continuous service with us as of each such vesting date. The options granted to each of our named executive officers in 2020 are also subject to potential acceleration of vesting in connection with a qualifying termination of employment or a change in control, as described below under the subsection titled “Employment Arrangements with our Named Executive Officers.”

In March 2021, our board of directors granted options under our 2020 Plan to purchase 233,778 shares to Dr. Harris and 51,951 shares to each of Mr. Bensen and Dr. Swanson. For Dr. Harris, the option has an exercise price of $5.83 per share, which was the fair market value per share of our common stock on the date of the grant, as determined by our board of directors, and 4,870 shares will vest and become exercisable monthly, provided that on the 48th month after the date of the grant, 4,888 shares will vest and become exercisable. Each of Mr. Bensen and Dr. Swanson’s options has an exercise price of $5.83 per share, which was the fair market value per share of our common stock on the date of grant, as determined by our board of directors, and 1,082 shares will vest and become exercisable monthly, provided that on the 48th month after the date of grant, 1,097 shares will vest and become exercisable. These options are subject to the respective named executive officer’s continuous service with us as of each such vesting date. The options are also subject to potential acceleration of vesting in connection with a qualifying termination of employment or a change in control, as described below under the subsection titled “Employment Arrangements with our Named Executive Officers.”

Outstanding Equity Awards at 2020 Fiscal Year-End

The following table presents information regarding the outstanding stock options and shares of restricted stock held by each of our named executive officers as of December 31, 2020.

 

     Option Awards      Stock Awards  

Name

  

Grant
Date

    

Number  of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
Exercisable

   

Number  of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
Unexercisable

   

Option
Exercise
Price
(4)

    

Option
Expiration
Date

    

Number of
Shares of
Stock that
Have Not
Vested

   

Market
Value of
Shares that
Have Not
Vested (5)

 

Todd Harris, Ph.D.

     —          —         —         —          —          285,868 (6)    $ 451,671  

Daniel Bensen

     1/27/2020        104,000 (1)      —       $ 1.58        1/27/2030        89,336 (7)    $ 141,151  

Ronald V. Swanson, Ph.D.

     1/27/2020        —         91,000 (2)    $ 1.58        1/27/2030        13,000 (3)    $ 20,540  

 

(1)

While none of the 104,000 options to purchase our common stock were vested as of December 31, 2020, one-fourth of the shares subject to Mr. Bensen’s option vested on January 27, 2021, and thereafter 2,167 shares vest monthly over 35 months with 2,155 shares vesting in the 36th month, subject to Mr. Bensen’s continuous service with us. The stock option has an early exercise feature that allows Mr. Bensen to exercise the option while unvested and receive restricted shares of our common stock that are subject to forfeiture until the vesting requirement is met. Our 2020 Plan specifically authorizes this early exercise concept and states that employees who exercise unvested options will receive shares of restricted stock with a vesting period that corresponds to the vesting period that remained in the exercised option. Due to this early exercise feature, these options are reflected in the “Exercisable” column as of December 31, 2020. This award is subject to potential acceleration of vesting in connection with a qualifying termination of employment or a change in control, as described below under the subsection titled “Employment Arrangements with our Named Executive Officers.”

 

(2)

Subject to Dr. Swanson’s continuous service with us, 13,000 shares subject to the option vest on January 16, 2021 and 2,167 shares vest monthly thereafter over 35 months with 2,155 shares vesting in the 36th month. This option was amended in February of 2021 to permit Dr. Swanson to exercise the option while unvested

 

152


Table of Contents
  and receive restricted shares of our common stock that are subject to forfeiture until the vesting requirement is met. This award is subject to potential acceleration of vesting in connection with a qualifying termination of employment or a change in control, as described below under the subsection titled “Employment Arrangements with our Named Executive Officers.”

 

(3)

Represents restricted shares acquired pursuant to Dr. Swanson’s exercise of an option granted on January 27, 2020 for 13,000 shares that vested on January 16, 2021 with an exercise price of $1.58 per share. Our 2020 Plan specifically authorizes this early exercise concept and states that employees who exercise unvested options will receive shares of restricted stock with a vesting period that corresponds to the vesting period that remained in the exercised option. This award is subject to potential acceleration of vesting in connection with a qualifying termination of employment or a change in control, as described below under the subsection titled “Employment Arrangements with our Named Executive Officers.”

 

(4)

All of the options were granted with a per share exercise price equal to the fair market value of one share of our common stock on the date of grant, as determined by our board of directors.

 

(5)

This amount reflects the fair market value of our common stock of $1.58 per share as of December 31, 2020 (the determination of the fair market value by our board of directors as of the most proximate date prior to then) multiplied by the amount shown in the column for the number of shares that have not vested.

 

(6)

In January 2020, to induce certain investors to purchase our Series A Preferred Stock, Dr. Harris agreed to subject 428,800 shares of common stock he acquired from us in August 2018 to a vesting condition. Specifically, Dr. Harris vests in 11,911 shares monthly for 35 months commencing January 31, 2020 and 11,915 shares in January of 2023, subject to his continuous service with us as of each vesting date. This award is subject to potential acceleration of vesting in connection with a qualifying termination of employment or a change in control, as described above under “—Equity-Based Incentive Awards.”

 

(7)

In January 2020, to induce certain investors to purchase our Series A Preferred Stock, Mr. Bensen agreed to subject 134,000 shares of common stock he acquired from us in August 2018 to a vesting condition. Specifically, Mr. Bensen vests in 3,722 shares monthly for 35 months commencing January 31, 2020 and 3,730 shares in January 2023, subject to his continuous service with us as of each vesting date. This award is subject to potential acceleration of vesting in connection with a qualifying termination of employment or a change in control, as described above under “—Equity-Based Incentive Awards.”

Employment Arrangements with our Named Executive Officers

Dr. Harris. We have entered into an employment agreement with Dr. Harris which governs the terms of his employment with us. Pursuant to his agreement, Dr. Harris was initially entitled to an annual base salary of $340,000, which was increased to $350,200 in January 2020 and increased to $414,000 in March 2021. He is eligible to receive an annual bonus with at a target amount of 40% of his then current annual base salary, based on the achievement of performance objectives as determined by our board of directors. Pursuant to the amended employment agreement with Dr. Harris to be effective upon completion of this offering, Dr. Harris’ annual base salary will be increased to $550,000 and his annual target bonus will be increased to 50% of his then current annual base salary.

Dr. Harris’ employment agreement provides for the following benefits in connection with a change in control (as such term is defined below). In the event of a change in control, the vesting of Dr. Harris’ then outstanding unvested equity awards will accelerate as of immediately prior to such change in control with respect to 50% of the unvested shares of our common stock underlying these equity awards. The remaining 50% of the unvested shares of common stock underlying these equity awards will continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the change in control, subject to Dr. Harris’ continued employment with us or our successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Dr. Harris’ outstanding equity awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the change in control will vest in full, subject to Dr. Harris’ continued employment with us or our successor through such first anniversary.

 

153


Table of Contents

Regardless of the manner in which Dr. Harris’ employment terminates, he is entitled to receive amounts previously earned during his employment, including unpaid salary, reimbursement of expenses owed, and cash out of accrued but unused paid time-off, subject to his execution of a release of claims and compliance with post-termination obligations. In addition, Dr. Harris is entitled to certain severance benefits under his employment agreement, subject to his execution of a release of claims and compliance with post-termination obligations.

Dr. Harris’ employment agreement provides for severance benefits for certain terminations that arise during and outside a change in control period. Upon a termination without cause, due to death, due to disability, or resignation for good reason outside of a change in control period (as such terms are defined below), Dr. Harris is entitled to (i) a cash lump sum payment equal to 12 months of Dr. Harris’ current annual base salary plus Dr. Harris’ then target annual bonus, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Dr. Harris’ date of termination, (ii) accelerated vesting of 50% of Dr. Harris’ unvested equity awards as of his date of termination, and (iii) payment or reimbursement of the COBRA premiums for Dr. Harris and his eligible dependents, or if COBRA is not available under our group health plan, the cash amount necessary to maintain his health coverage at the same coverage levels in effect as of the date of his termination, until the earliest of (a) six months from Dr. Harris’ date of termination (which period will be increased to 12 months pursuant to the amended employment agreement to be effective upon completion of this offering), or (b) the date Dr. Harris becomes eligible for comparable health insurance coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan.

Upon a termination without cause, due to death, due to disability, or resignation for good reason within 3 months prior to or 18 months after a change in control (such period, the change in control period), Dr. Harris is entitled to (i) a cash lump sum payment equal to 18 months of Dr. Harris’ current annual base salary plus Dr. Harris’ then target annual bonus (which will be increased to 150% of his target annual bonus pursuant to the amended employment agreement to be effective upon completion of this offering), (ii) accelerated vesting of 100% of Dr. Harris’ unvested equity awards as of his date of termination, and (iii) payment or reimbursement of the COBRA premiums for Dr. Harris and his eligible dependents, or if coverage under COBRA is not available under our group health plan, the cash amount necessary to maintain his health coverage at the same coverage levels in effect as of the date of his termination, until the earliest of (a) 12 months from Dr. Harris’ date of termination (which period will be increased to 18 months pursuant to the amended employment agreement to be effective upon completion of this offering), or (b) the date Dr. Harris becomes eligible for comparable health insurance coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan.

For purposes of Dr. Harris’ employment agreement:

“cause” means (i) any material failure on the part of Dr. Harris (other than by reason of disability) to faithfully and professionally carry out his duties; (ii) Dr. Harris’ dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of us; (iii) Dr. Harris’ conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony; (iv) Dr. Harris’ insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing his duties and responsibilities or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Dr. Harris to perform these duties and responsibilities; (v) Dr. Harris’ material breach of any written agreement with us or any of our affiliates or his material violation of our “code of conduct” or any other material written policy of our company; or (vi) any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Dr. Harris.

“change in control” will have the meaning given to such term in the 2021 Plan.

“disability” means permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

“good reason” means (i) the material reduction of his annual base salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all our other similarly situated employees that is in

 

154


Table of Contents

the same proportion as the reduction in his annual base salary); (ii) a material reduction of Dr. Harris’ duties and responsibilities; (iii) our material breach of the employment agreement (other than a reduction of Dr. Harris’ annual base salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of our company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in his annual base salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Dr. Harris’ principal place of employment that increases his one-way commute by more than 35 miles, provided, that, in each case, Dr. Harris will not be deemed to have good reason unless (A) Dr. Harris first provides the board of directors with written notice of the condition giving rise to good reason within 30 days of its initial occurrence, (B) we or the successor company fails to cure such condition within 10 days after receiving such written notice, and (C) Dr. Harris’ resignation based on such good reason is effective within 30 days after expiration of our 10 day cure period.

Mr. Bensen. We have entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Bensen which governs the terms of his employment with us. Pursuant to his agreement, Mr. Bensen was entitled to an initial annual base salary of $250,000, which was increased to $257,500 in January 2020 and increased to $343,000 in March 2021. He is also eligible to receive an annual discretionary bonus at a target amount of 30% of his then current annual base salary based on the achievement of individual and corporate performance targets and metrics, as determined by our board of directors. Pursuant to the amended employment agreement with Mr. Bensen to be effective upon completion of this offering, Mr. Bensen’s annual base salary will be increased to $410,000 and his annual target bonus will be increased to 40% of his then current annual base salary.

Mr. Bensen’s employment agreement provides for the following benefits in connection with a change in control. In the event of a change in control, the vesting of Mr. Bensen’s then outstanding unvested equity awards will accelerate as of immediately prior to such change in control with respect to 50% of the unvested shares of our common stock underlying these equity awards. The remaining 50% of the unvested shares of common stock underlying these equity awards will continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the change in control, subject to Mr. Bensen’s continued employment with us or our successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Mr. Bensen’s outstanding equity awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the change in control will vest in full, subject to Mr. Bensen’s continued employment with us or our successor through such first anniversary.

Regardless of the manner in which Mr. Bensen’s employment terminates, he is entitled to receive amounts previously earned during his employment, including unpaid salary, reimbursement of expenses owed, and cash out of accrued but unused paid time-off, subject to his execution of a release of claims and compliance with post-termination obligations. In addition, Mr. Bensen is entitled to certain severance benefits under his employment agreement, subject to his execution of a release of claims and compliance with post-termination obligations.

Mr. Bensen’s employment agreement provides for severance benefits for certain terminations that arise during and outside a change in control period. Upon a termination without cause, due to death, due to disability, or resignation for good reason outside of a change in control period, Mr. Bensen is entitled to (i) a cash lump sum payment equal to 12 months of Mr. Bensen’s current annual base salary plus Mr. Bensen’s then target annual bonus, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Mr. Bensen’s date of termination, (ii) accelerated vesting of 50% of Mr. Bensen’s unvested equity awards as of his date of termination, and (iii) payment or reimbursement of the COBRA premiums for Mr. Bensen and his eligible dependents, or if coverage under COBRA is not available under our group health plan, the cash amount necessary to maintain his health coverage at the same coverage levels in effect as of the date of his termination, until the earliest of (a) six months from Mr. Bensen’s date of termination (which period will be increased to 12 months pursuant to the amended employment agreement to be effective upon completion of this offering), or (b) the date Mr. Bensen becomes eligible for comparable health insurance coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan.

Upon a termination without cause or resignation for good reason within 3 months prior to or 18 months after a change in control (such period, the change in control period), Mr. Bensen is entitled to (i) a cash lump sum

 

155


Table of Contents

payment equal to 18 months of Mr. Bensen’s current annual base salary plus Mr. Bensen’s then target annual bonus, (ii) accelerated vesting of 100% of Mr. Bensen’s unvested equity awards as of his date of termination, and (iii) payment or reimbursement of the COBRA premiums for Mr. Bensen and his eligible dependents, or if coverage under COBRA is not available under our group health plan, the cash amount necessary to maintain his health coverage at the same coverage levels in effect as of the date of his termination, until the earliest of (a) 12 months from Mr. Bensen’s date of termination, or (b) the date Mr. Bensen becomes eligible for comparable health insurance coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan.

For purposes of Mr. Bensen’s employment agreement, “cause,” “change in control,” “change in control period”, “disability” and “good reason” have the same meaning as given to the terms in Dr. Harris’ employment agreement, as described above.

Dr. Swanson. We entered into an employment agreement with Dr. Swanson which governs the terms of his employment with us. Pursuant to his agreement, Dr. Swanson was entitled to an initial annual base salary of $257,500, which was increased to $343,000 in March 2021. He is also eligible to receive an annual discretionary bonus at a target amount of 30% of his then current annual base salary based on the achievement of individual and corporate performance targets and metrics, as determined by our board of directors. Pursuant to the amended employment agreement with Dr. Swanson to be effective upon completion of this offering, Dr. Swanson’s annual base salary will be increased to $410,000 and his annual target bonus will be increased to 40% of his then current annual base salary.

Dr. Swanson’s employment agreement provides for the following benefits in connection with a change in control. In the event of a change in control, the vesting of Dr. Swanson’s then outstanding unvested equity awards will accelerate as of immediately prior to such change in control with respect to 50% of the unvested shares of our common stock underlying these equity awards. The remaining 50% of the unvested shares of common stock underlying these equity awards will continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the change in control, subject to Dr. Swanson’s continued employment with us or our successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Dr. Swanson’s outstanding equity awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the change in control will vest in full, subject to Dr. Swanson’s continued employment with us or our successor through such first anniversary.

Regardless of the manner in which Dr. Swanson’s employment terminates, he is entitled to receive amounts previously earned during his employment, including unpaid salary, reimbursement of expenses owed, and cash out of accrued but unused paid time-off, subject to his execution of a release of claims and compliance with the post-termination obligations. In addition, Dr. Swanson is entitled to certain severance benefits under his employment agreement, subject to his execution of a release of claims and compliance with post-termination obligations.

Dr. Swanson’s employment agreement provides for severance benefits for certain terminations that arise during and outside a change in control period. Upon a termination without cause, due to death, due to disability, or resignation for good reason outside of a change in control period (as such terms are defined below), Dr. Swanson is entitled to (i) a cash lump sum payment equal to 12 months of Dr. Swanson’s current annual base salary plus Dr. Swanson’s then target annual bonus, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Dr. Swanson’s date of termination, (ii) accelerated vesting of 50% of Dr. Swanson’s unvested equity awards as of his date of termination, and (iii) payment or reimbursement of the COBRA premiums for Dr. Swanson and his eligible dependents, or if coverage under COBRA is not available under our group health plan, the cash amount necessary to maintain his health coverage at the same coverage levels in effect as of the date of his termination, until the earliest of (a) six months from Dr. Swanson’s date of termination (which period will be increased to 12 months pursuant to the amended employment agreement to be effective upon completion of this offering), or (b) the date Dr. Swanson becomes eligible for comparable health insurance coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan.

 

156


Table of Contents

Upon a termination without cause, due to death, due to disability, or resignation for good reason within 3 months prior to or 18 months after a change in control (such period, the change in control period), Dr. Swanson is entitled to (i) a cash lump sum payment equal to 18 months of Dr. Swanson’s current annual base salary plus Dr. Swanson’s then target annual bonus (ii) accelerated vesting of 100% of Dr. Swanson’s unvested equity awards as of his date of termination, and (iii) payment or reimbursement of the COBRA premiums for Dr. Swanson and his eligible dependents, or if coverage under COBRA is not available under our group health plan, the cash amount necessary to maintain his health coverage at the same coverage levels in effect as of the date of his termination, until the earliest of (a) 12 months from Dr. Swanson’s date of termination, or (b) the date Dr. Swanson becomes eligible for comparable health insurance coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan.

For purposes of Dr. Swanson’s employment agreement, “cause,” “change in control,” “change in control period,” “disability” and “good reason” have the same meaning as given to the terms in Dr. Harris’ employment agreement, as described above.

Each named executive officers’ employment agreement contains a one-year post-termination non-solicitation covenant. Each of our named executive officers’ stock options granted prior to execution of the underwriting agreement for this offering are subject to the terms of the 2020 Plan; a description of the termination and change in control provisions in the 2020 Plan and the form of stock options granted thereunder is provided below under “—Equity Incentive Plans.”

Health and Welfare and Retirement Benefits; Perquisites

All of our current named executive officers are eligible to participate in our employee benefit plans, including our medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance plans, in each case on the same basis as all of our other employees. Other than the telephone allowance described in the footnotes to the 2020 Summary Compensation Table, we generally do not provide perquisites or personal benefits to our named executive officers, except in limited circumstances.

401(k) Plan

Our named executive officers are eligible to participate in a defined contribution retirement plan that provides eligible employees with an opportunity to save for retirement on a tax advantaged basis. Eligible employees may defer eligible compensation on a pre-tax or after-tax (Roth) basis, up to the statutorily prescribed annual limits on contributions under the Code. Contributions are allocated to each participant’s individual account and are then invested in selected investment alternatives according to the participants’ directions. The 401(k) plan is intended to be qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code with the 401(k) plan’s related trust intended to be tax exempt under Section 501(a) of the Code. As a tax-qualified retirement plan, contributions to the 401(k) plan (except for Roth contributions) and earnings on those contributions are not taxable to the employees until distributed from the 401(k) plan. Our board of directors may elect to adopt qualified or nonqualified benefit plans in the future, if it determines that doing so is in our best interests.

Equity Incentive Plans

The principal features of our equity incentive plans are summarized below. These summaries are qualified in their entirety by reference to the actual text of the applicable plan, each of which is or will be filed as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part.

2021 Incentive Award Plan

Prior to this offering, we intend to adopt and ask our stockholders to approve the 2021 Plan, which would become effective in connection with this offering. Under the 2021 Plan, we may grant cash and equity

 

157


Table of Contents

incentive awards to eligible service providers in order to attract, motivate and retain the talent for which we compete. The material terms of the 2021 Plan, as it is currently contemplated, are summarized below. Our board of directors is still in the process of developing, approving and implementing the 2021 Plan and, accordingly, this summary is subject to change.

Eligibility and administration. Our employees, consultants and directors, and employees and consultants of our subsidiaries, will be eligible to receive awards under the 2021 Plan. Following our initial public offering, the 2021 Plan will generally be administered by our board of directors with respect to awards to non-employee directors and by our compensation committee with respect to other participants, each of which may delegate its duties and responsibilities to committees of our directors and/or officers (referred to collectively as the plan administrator below), subject to certain limitations that may be imposed under the 2021 Plan, Section 16 of the Exchange Act and/or stock exchange rules, as applicable. The plan administrator will have the authority to make all determinations and interpretations under, prescribe all forms for use with, and adopt rules for the administration of, the 2021 Plan, subject to its express terms and conditions. The plan administrator will also set the terms and conditions of all awards under the 2021 Plan, including any vesting and vesting acceleration conditions.

Limitation on awards and shares available. The number of shares initially available for issuance under awards granted pursuant to the 2021 Plan will be the sum of (1) approximately 12% of the shares of our common stock outstanding upon the closing of this offering, plus (2) any shares of our common stock which, as of the effective date of the 2021 Plan, remain available for issuance under the 2020 Plan, plus (3) any shares subject to outstanding awards under the 2020 Plan as of the effective date of the 2021 Plan that become available for issuance under the 2021 Plan thereafter in accordance with its terms. The number of shares initially available for issuance will be increased on January 1 of each calendar year beginning in 2022 and ending in 2031, by an amount equal to the lesser of (a) 5% of the shares of common stock outstanding on the final day of the immediately preceding calendar year and (b) such smaller number of shares as determined by our board of directors. No more than             shares of common stock may be issued upon the exercise of incentive stock options under the 2021 Plan. Shares issued under the 2021 Plan may be authorized but unissued shares, shares purchased on the open market or treasury shares.

If an award under the 2021 Plan or the 2020 Plan expires, lapses or is terminated, exchanged for or settled in cash, surrendered, repurchased, cancelled without having been fully exercised or forfeited, in any case, in a manner that results in the Company acquiring shares covered by the award at a price not greater than the price paid by the participant for such shares or not issuing any shares covered by the award, any shares subject to such award will, as applicable, become or again be available for new grants under the 2021 Plan. Awards granted under the 2021 Plan upon the assumption of, or in substitution for, awards authorized or outstanding under a qualifying equity plan maintained by an entity with which we enter into a merger or similar corporate transaction will not reduce the shares available for grant under the 2021 Plan.

Awards. The 2021 Plan provides for the grant of stock options, including incentive stock options, or ISOs within the meaning of Section 422 of the Code, and nonqualified stock options, or NSOs; restricted stock; dividend equivalents; restricted stock units, or RSUs; stock appreciation rights, or SARs; and other stock or cash-based awards. Certain awards under the 2021 Plan may constitute or provide for a deferral of compensation, subject to Section 409A of the Code, which may impose additional requirements on the terms and conditions of such awards. All awards under the 2021 Plan will be set forth in award agreements, which will detail the terms and conditions of the awards, including any applicable vesting and payment terms and post-termination exercise limitations. Awards other than cash awards generally will be settled in shares of our common stock, but the plan administrator may provide for cash settlement of any award. A brief description of each award type follows.

 

   

Stock options. Stock options provide for the purchase of shares of our common stock in the future at an exercise price set on the grant date. ISOs, by contrast to NSOs, may provide tax deferral beyond exercise and favorable capital gains tax treatment to their holders if certain holding period and other

 

158


Table of Contents
 

requirements of the Code are satisfied. The exercise price of a stock option will not be less than 100% of the fair market value of the underlying share on the date of grant (or 110% in the case of ISOs granted to certain significant stockholders), except with respect to certain substitute options granted in connection with a corporate transaction. The term of a stock option may not be longer than ten years (or five years in the case of ISOs granted to certain significant stockholders). Vesting conditions determined by the plan administrator may apply to stock options and may include continued service, performance and/or other conditions. ISOs generally may be granted only to our employees and employees of our parent or subsidiary corporations, if any.

 

   

SARs. SARs entitle their holder, upon exercise, to receive from us an amount equal to the appreciation of the shares subject to the award between the grant date and the exercise date. The exercise price of a SAR will not be less than 100% of the fair market value of the underlying share on the date of grant (except with respect to certain substitute SARs granted in connection with a corporate transaction), and the term of a SAR may not be longer than ten years. Vesting conditions determined by the plan administrator may apply to SARs and may include continued service, performance and/or other conditions.

 

   

Restricted stock and RSUs. Restricted stock is an award of nontransferable shares of our common stock that remain forfeitable unless and until specified conditions are met, and which may be subject to a purchase price. RSUs are contractual promises to deliver shares of our common stock in the future, which may also remain forfeitable unless and until specified conditions are met. Delivery of the shares underlying RSUs may be deferred under the terms of the award or at the election of the participant, if the plan administrator permits such a deferral. Conditions applicable to restricted stock and RSUs may be based on continuing service, the attainment of performance goals and/or such other conditions as the plan administrator may determine.

 

   

Other stock or cash-based awards. Other stock or cash-based awards are awards of cash, fully vested shares of our common stock and other awards valued wholly or partially by referring to, or otherwise based on, shares of our common stock. Other stock or cash-based awards may be granted to participants and may also be available as a payment form in the settlement of other awards, as standalone payments and as payment in lieu of base salary, bonus, fees or other cash compensation otherwise payable to any individual who is eligible to receive awards. The plan administrator will determine the terms and conditions of other stock or cash-based awards, which may include vesting conditions based on continued service, performance and/or other conditions.

 

   

Dividend equivalents. RSUs or other stock and cash-based awards may be accompanied by the right to receive the equivalent value of dividends paid on shares of our common stock prior to the delivery of the underlying shares. Such dividend equivalents will only be paid out to the extent that any vesting conditions are subsequently satisfied, unless otherwise determined by the plan administrator. No dividend equivalents will be payable on stock options or SARs.

Performance awards. Performance awards include any of the foregoing awards that are granted subject to vesting and/or payment based on the attainment of specified performance goals or other criteria the plan administrator may determine, which may or may not be objectively determinable. Performance criteria upon which performance goals are established by the plan administrator may include: net earnings or losses (either before or after one or more of interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and non-cash equity-based compensation expense); gross or net sales or revenue or sales or revenue growth; net income (either before or after taxes) or adjusted net income; profits (including, but not limited to, gross profits, net profits, profit growth, net operation profit or economic profit), profit return ratios or operating margin; budget or operating earnings (either before or after taxes or before or after allocation of corporate overhead and bonus); cash flow (including operating cash flow and free cash flow or cash flow return on capital); return on assets; return on capital or invested capital; cost of capital; return on stockholders’ equity; total stockholder return; return on sales; costs, reductions in costs and

 

159


Table of Contents

cost control measures; expenses; working capital; earnings or loss per share; adjusted earnings or loss per share; price per share or dividends per share (or appreciation in or maintenance of such price or dividends); regulatory achievements or compliance; implementation, completion or attainment of objectives relating to research, development, regulatory, commercial or strategic milestones or developments; market share; economic value or economic value added models; division, group or corporate financial goals; customer satisfaction/growth; customer service; employee satisfaction; recruitment and maintenance of personnel; human capital management (including diversity and inclusion); supervision of litigation and other legal matters; strategic partnerships and transactions; financial ratios (including those measuring liquidity, activity, profitability or leverage); debt levels or reductions; sales-related goals; financing and other capital raising transactions; cash on hand; acquisition activity; investment sourcing activity; and marketing initiatives, any of which may be measured in absolute terms or as compared to any incremental increase or decrease. Such performance goals also may be based solely by reference to our performance or the performance of a subsidiary, division, business segment or business unit, or based upon performance relative to performance of other companies or upon comparisons of any of the indicators of performance relative to performance of other companies.

Director compensation. The 2021 Plan provides that the plan administrator may establish compensation for non-employee directors from time to time subject to the 2021 Plan’s limitations. Prior to this offering, our stockholders will approve the initial terms of our non-employee director compensation program, which is described below under the heading “Director Compensation.” Our board of directors or its authorized committee may modify the non-employee director compensation program from time to time in the exercise of its business judgment, taking into account such factors, circumstances and considerations as it deems relevant from time to time, provided that the sum of any cash compensation or other compensation and the grant date fair value (as determined in accordance with FASB ASC 718, or any successor thereto) of any equity awards granted as compensation for services as a non-employee director during any calendar year may not exceed $750,000, increased to $1,000,000 in the calendar year of a non-employee director’s initial service as a non-employee director or during which a non-employee director serves as chair of our board of directors or lead independent director (which limits will not apply to the compensation for any non-employee director who serves in any capacity in addition to that of a non-employee director for which he or she receives additional compensation or any compensation paid to any non-employee director prior to the calendar year following the calendar year in which this offering occurs). The plan administrator may make exceptions to this limit for individual non-employee directors in extraordinary circumstances, as the plan administrator may determine in its discretion, provided that the non-employee director receiving such additional compensation may not participate in the decision to award such compensation or in other contemporaneous compensation decisions involving non-employee directors.

Certain transactions. In connection with certain transactions and events affecting our common stock, including a change in control (as defined below), or change in any applicable laws or accounting principles, the plan administrator has broad discretion to take action under the 2021 Plan to prevent the dilution or enlargement of intended benefits, facilitate such transaction or event, or give effect to such change in applicable laws or accounting principles. This includes canceling awards in exchange for either an amount in cash or other property with a value equal to the amount that would have been obtained upon exercise or settlement of the vested portion of such award or realization of the participant’s rights under the vested portion of such award, accelerating the vesting of awards, providing for the assumption or substitution of awards by a successor entity, adjusting the number and type of shares available, replacing awards with other rights or property or terminating awards under the 2021 Plan. In the event of a change in control where the acquirer does not assume awards granted under the 2021 Plan, awards issued under the 2021 Plan will be subject to accelerated vesting such that 100% of the awards will become vested and exercisable or payable, as applicable. In addition, in the event of certain non-reciprocal transactions with our stockholders (an equity restructuring) the plan administrator will make equitable adjustments to the 2021 Plan and outstanding awards as it deems appropriate to reflect the equity restructuring.

 

160


Table of Contents

For purposes of the 2021 Plan, a “change in control” means and includes each of the following:

 

   

a transaction or series of transactions whereby any “person” or related “group” of “persons” (as such terms are used in Sections 13(d) and 14(d)(2) of the Exchange Act) (other than our company or our subsidiaries or any employee benefit plan maintained by us or any of our subsidiaries or a “person” that, prior to such transaction, directly or indirectly controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with, us) directly or indirectly acquires beneficial ownership (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act) of our securities possessing more than 50% of the total combined voting power of our securities outstanding immediately after such acquisition; or

 

   

during any period of two consecutive years, individuals who, at the beginning of such period, constitute our board of directors together with any new directors (other than a director designated by a person who has entered into an agreement with us to effect a change in control transaction) whose election by our board of directors or nomination for election by our stockholders was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in office who either were directors at the beginning of the two-year period or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved, cease for any reason to constitute a majority thereof; or

 

   

the consummation by us (whether directly or indirectly) of (x) a merger, consolidation, reorganization, or business combination or (y) a sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of our assets in any single transaction or series of related transactions or (z) the acquisition of assets or stock of another entity, in each case other than a transaction:

 

   

which results in our voting securities outstanding immediately before the transaction continuing to represent either by remaining outstanding or by being converted into voting securities of the company or the person that, as a result of the transaction, controls, directly or indirectly, the company or owns, directly or indirectly, all or substantially all of our assets or otherwise succeeds to our business, directly or indirectly, at least a majority of the combined voting power of the successor entity’s outstanding voting securities immediately after the transaction, and

 

   

after which no person or group beneficially owns voting securities representing 50% or more of the combined voting power of the successor entity; provided, however, that no person or group will be treated as beneficially owning 50% or more of the combined voting power of the successor entity solely as a result of the voting power held in our company prior to the consummation of the transaction.

Foreign participants, clawback provisions, transferability and participant payments. With respect to foreign participants, the plan administrator may modify award terms, establish subplans and/or adjust other terms and conditions of awards, subject to the share limits described above. All awards will be subject to the provisions of any clawback policy implemented by our company and to the extent set forth in such clawback policy or in the applicable award agreement. With limited exceptions for estate planning, domestic relations orders, certain beneficiary designations and the laws of descent and distribution, awards under the 2021 Plan are generally nontransferable prior to vesting and are exercisable only by the participant. With regard to tax withholding obligations arising in connection with awards under the 2021 Plan and exercise price obligations arising in connection with the exercise of stock options under the 2021 Plan, the plan administrator may, in its discretion, accept cash, wire transfer, or check, shares of our common stock that meet specified conditions (a market sell order) or such other consideration as it deems suitable or any combination of the foregoing.

Plan amendment and termination. Our board of directors may amend, suspend or terminate the 2021 Plan at any time; however, except in connection with certain changes in our capital structure, stockholder approval will be required for any amendment that increases the number of shares available under the 2021 Plan. The plan administrator will have the authority, without the approval of our stockholders, to amend any

 

161


Table of Contents

outstanding stock option or SAR to reduce its exercise price per share. No award may be granted pursuant to the 2021 Plan after the tenth anniversary of the date on which our board of directors adopts the 2021 Plan.

2020 Equity Incentive Plan

Our board of directors and stockholders adopted the 2020 Plan in January 2020. Our 2020 Plan provides for the grant of ISOs to employees, including employees of any parent or subsidiary, and for the grant of NSOs, SARs, restricted stock, RSUs and unrestricted stock awards to employees, directors and consultants, including employees and consultants of any parent or subsidiary, and nonemployees, non-consultants, and non-directors to whom an offer of a service relationship as an employee, consultant, investor director provider, has been or is being extended. Once our 2021 Plan becomes effective, no further grants will be made under our 2020 Plan. Any outstanding awards granted under our 2020 Plan will remain subject to the terms of our 2020 Plan and applicable award agreements.

Authorized shares. Subject to certain capitalization adjustments, the maximum number of shares of common stock that may be issued pursuant to stock awards under the 2020 Plan will not exceed 1,803,910 shares. Shares subject to stock awards granted under our 2020 Plan that expire, are forfeited or otherwise terminate without being exercised or settled in shares do not reduce the number of shares available for issuance under our 2020 Plan and will become available under the 2021 Plan after it becomes effective. Additionally, shares used to pay the exercise price of a stock award or to satisfy the tax withholding obligations related to a stock award become available for future grant under our 2020 Plan or, after the effective date of the 2021 Plan, the 2021 Plan.

Plan administration. Our board of directors, or a duly authorized committee of our board of directors to which the board delegates its administrative authority, will administer our 2020 Plan and is referred to as the “plan administrator” herein. Under our 2020 Plan, the plan administrator has the authority to, among other things, determine who will be granted stock awards, to determine the terms and conditions of each stock award (including the number of shares subject to the stock award, when the stock award will vest and, as applicable, become exercisable), to accelerate the time(s) at which a stock award may vest or be exercised, and to construe and interpret the terms of our 2020 Plan and stock awards granted thereunder.

Stock Options. ISOs and NSOs are granted under stock option agreements adopted by the plan administrator. The plan administrator determines the exercise price for stock options, within the terms and conditions of the 2020 Plan, provided that the exercise price of a stock option generally cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant (or 110% of the fair market value for ISOs granted to certain major stockholders). Options granted under the 2020 Plan vest at the rate specified in the stock option agreement as determined by the plan administrator.

The plan administrator determines the term of stock options granted under the 2020 Plan, up to a maximum of 10 years (or five years, for ISOs granted to certain major stockholders). The plan administrator will determine the effect on a stock award of the disability, death, retirement, authorized leave of absence, or any other change or purported change in a holder’s status.

Acceptable consideration for the purchase of common stock issued upon the exercise of a stock option will be determined by the plan administrator and may include (1) cash or check payable to us, (2) subject to plan administrator consent, a broker-assisted cashless exercise, (3) the tender of shares of our common stock previously owned by the optionholder, (4) subject to plan administrator consent, a net exercise of the option if it is an NSO, (5) a combination of any of the foregoing methods, or (6) other legal consideration approved by the plan administrator.

Unless the plan administrator provides otherwise, options generally are not transferable except by will or the laws of descent and distribution. Subject to approval of the plan administrator (i) an option may be

 

162


Table of Contents

transferred pursuant to a domestic relations order and (ii) an optionholder may designate a beneficiary who may exercise the option following the optionholder’s death.

Changes to capital structure. The plan administrator will make appropriate and proportionate adjustments to (1) the maximum number of shares reserved for issuance under the 2020 Plan and (2) the number of shares and exercise price, strike price, or purchase price, if applicable, of all outstanding stock awards to reflect any increase or decrease in the number of our issued shares of our common stock resulting from a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination, recapitalization or reclassification of the shares, merger, consolidation, change in organization form, or any other increase or decrease in the number of our shares of common stock effected without receipt or payment of consideration.

Change in control. Our 2020 Plan provides that in the event of a “change in control,” unless otherwise provided in an award agreement or other written agreement between us and the award holder, the plan administrator may take one or more of the following actions with respect to such stock awards:

 

   

arrange for the assumption, continuation, or substitution of a stock award by a surviving or acquiring corporation;

 

   

accelerate the vesting, in whole or in part, of the stock award;

 

   

provide for its termination if not exercised (if applicable) at or before the effective time of the transaction;

 

   

cancel or arrange for the cancellation of the stock award, to the extent not vested or not exercised before the effective time of the transaction, in exchange for such cash or other consideration (including no consideration) as our board of directors, in its sole discretion, may consider appropriate; and

 

   

terminate the award without compensation.

The plan administrator is not obligated to treat all stock awards or portions of stock awards in the same manner and is not obligated to treat all participants in the same manner.

Under the 2020 Plan, a “change in control” is generally defined as any one or more of the following events: (1) a sale of all or substantially all of our assets or similar transaction, (2) the sale or disposition of 50% or more of the combined voting power of our outstanding securities, (3) a merger or consolidation that would have the same effect as the foregoing clause (2), and (4) our stockholders approving a plan or proposal for our liquidation or dissolution.

Plan Amendment or Termination. Our board of directors has the authority to amend, or terminate our 2020 Plan, provided that such action does not impair the vested rights of any participant without such participant’s written consent. Certain material amendments also require the approval of our stockholders. Unless terminated sooner, the 2020 Plan will automatically terminate on January 6, 2030. No stock awards may be granted under our 2020 Plan or after it is terminated. Once the 2021 Plan is effective, no further grants will be made under the 2020 Plan.

2021 Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Effective the day prior to the first public trading date of our common stock, we intend to adopt and ask our stockholders to approve the ESPP, the material terms of which, as it is currently contemplated, are summarized below. Our board of directors is still in the process of developing, approving and implementing the ESPP and, accordingly, this summary is subject to change.

 

163


Table of Contents

The ESPP is comprised of two distinct components in order to provide increased flexibility to grant options to purchase shares under the ESPP to U.S. and to non-U.S. employees. Specifically, the ESPP authorizes (1) the grant of options to U.S. employees that are intended to qualify for favorable U.S. federal tax treatment under Section 423 of the Code, (the “Section 423 Component”), and (2) the grant of options that are not intended to be tax-qualified under Section 423 of the Code to facilitate participation for employees located outside of the U.S. who do not benefit from favorable U.S. federal tax treatment and to provide flexibility to comply with non-U.S. law and other considerations (the “Non-Section 423 Component”). Where permitted under local law and custom, we expect that the Non-Section 423 Component will generally be operated and administered on terms and conditions similar to the Section 423 Component.

Shares available for awards; administration. A total of              shares of our common stock will initially be reserved for issuance under the ESPP. In addition, the number of shares available for issuance under the ESPP will be annually increased on January 1 of each calendar year beginning in 2022 and ending in and including 2031, by an amount equal to the lesser of (A) 1% of the shares outstanding on the final day of the immediately preceding calendar year and (B) such smaller number of shares as is determined by our board of directors, provided that no more than              shares of our common stock may be issued under the Section 423 Component. Our board of directors or a committee of our board of directors will administer and will have authority to interpret the terms of the ESPP and determine eligibility of participants. We expect that the compensation committee will be the initial administrator of the ESPP (referred to as the plan administrator below).

Eligibility. We expect that all of our employees will be eligible to participate in the ESPP. However, an employee may not be granted rights to purchase stock under the ESPP if the employee, immediately after the grant, would own (directly or through attribution) stock possessing 5% or more of the total combined voting power or value of all classes of our stock.

Grant of rights. Stock will be offered under the ESPP during offering periods. The length of the offering periods under the ESPP will be determined by the plan administrator and may be up to twenty-seven months long. Employee payroll deductions will be used to purchase shares on each purchase date during an offering period. The purchase dates for each offering period will be the final trading day in the offering period. Offering periods under the ESPP will commence when determined by the plan administrator. The plan administrator may, in its discretion, modify the terms of future offering periods. In non-U.S. jurisdictions where participation in the ESPP through payroll deductions is prohibited, the plan administrator may provide that an eligible employee may elect to participate through contributions to the participant’s account under the ESPP in a form acceptable to the plan administrator in lieu of or in addition to payroll deductions.

The ESPP permits participants to purchase common stock through payroll deductions of up to a specified percentage of their eligible compensation. The plan administrator will establish a maximum number of shares that may be purchased by a participant during any offering period. In addition, no employee will be permitted to accrue the right to purchase stock under the Section 423 Component at a rate in excess of $25,000 worth of shares during any calendar year during which such a purchase right is outstanding (based on the fair market value per share of our common stock as of the first day of the offering period).

On the first trading day of each offering period, each participant will automatically be granted an option to purchase shares of our common stock. The option will expire at the end of the applicable offering period and will be exercised at that time to the extent of the payroll deductions accumulated during the offering period. The purchase price of the shares, in the absence of a contrary designation, will be 85% of the lower of the fair market value of our common stock on the first trading day of the offering period or on the purchase date. Participants may voluntarily end their participation in the ESPP at any time during a specified period prior to the end of the applicable offering period and will be paid their accrued payroll deductions that have not yet been used to purchase shares of common stock. Participation ends automatically upon a participant’s termination of employment.

 

164


Table of Contents

A participant may not transfer rights granted under the ESPP other than by will or the laws of descent and distribution, and such rights are generally exercisable only by the participant.

Certain transactions. In the event of certain non-reciprocal transactions or events affecting our common stock, the plan administrator will make equitable adjustments to the ESPP and outstanding rights. In the event of certain unusual or non-recurring events or transactions, including a change in control, the plan administrator may provide for (1) either the replacement of outstanding rights with other rights or property or termination of outstanding rights in exchange for cash, (2) the assumption or substitution of outstanding rights by the successor or survivor corporation or parent or subsidiary thereof, if any, (3) the adjustment in the number and type of shares of stock subject to outstanding rights, (4) the use of participants’ accumulated payroll deductions to purchase stock on a new purchase date prior to the next scheduled purchase date and termination of any rights under ongoing offering periods or (5) the termination of all outstanding rights.

Plan amendment. The plan administrator may amend, suspend or terminate the ESPP at any time. However, stockholder approval will be obtained for any amendment that increases the aggregate number or changes the type of shares that may be sold pursuant to rights under the ESPP or changes the corporations or classes of corporations whose employees are eligible to participate in the ESPP.

Non-Employee Director Compensation

We did not provide any cash, equity or other compensation to our non-employee directors in the year ended December 31, 2020 with the exception of our independent board members. We do have a policy of reimbursing all of our non-employee directors for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in connection with attending board of directors and committee meetings.

 

Name

  

Option Awards
($) (1)(4)

   

All Other
Compensation

   

Total

($)

 

Isan Chen, M.D.

   $ 54,821 (2)    $ 77,256 (5)      132,077  

Gilla Kaplan, Ph.D.

   $ 29,160 (3)      —         29,160  

 

(1)

The amounts reported represent the aggregate grant date fair value of the stock options awarded to the non-employee director during fiscal year 2020, calculated in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. Such grant date fair value does not take into account any estimated forfeitures. The assumptions used in calculating the grant date fair value of the awards reported in this column are set forth in Note 7 to our financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. The amounts reported in this column reflect the accounting cost for the stock options and do not reflect the actual economic value that will be realized upon the vesting of the stock options, the exercise of the stock options or the sale of the common stock underlying such awards.

 

(2)

Dr. Chen was granted an option on January 27, 2020 to purchase 44,436 shares, 11,100 of which vest on the first anniversary of the date of grant, 925 vest monthly thereafter over 35 months with 961 shares vesting in the 36th month, subject to Dr. Chen’s continued service. 23,636 of the shares subject to the option are compensation for Dr. Chen’s service as a non-employee director and 20,800 of the shares subject to the option are compensation for Dr. Chen’s consulting services as Chief Medical Advisor. During 2020, Dr. Chen early exercised his stock option and, as of December 31, 2020, held 44,436 shares of restricted stock that will vest in accordance with the vesting schedule applicable to his January 2020 option award.

 

(3)

Dr. Kaplan was granted an option on January 27, 2020 to purchase 23,636 shares, 5,904 of which vest on the first anniversary of the date of grant, 492 vest monthly thereafter over 35 months with 512 shares vesting in the 36th month, subject to Dr. Kaplan’s continued service.

 

(4)

As of December 31, 2020, Dr. Kaplan held options to purchase 23,636 of our common stock and was the only non-employee member of our board of directors that held unexercised options as of that date. As of December 31, 2020, Dr. Chen held 44,436 shares of restricted stock acquired pursuant to the early exercise of the option granted to Dr. Chen on January 27, 2020.

 

165


Table of Contents
(5)

Represents fees of $6,438 per month as compensation for consulting services as Chief Medical Advisor pursuant to a consulting agreement entered into by Dr. Chen and us as of January 1, 2020. The agreement has an initial term of one year and automatically terminated as of January 1, 2021 pursuant to its terms.

In connection with this offering, we intend to adopt and ask our stockholders to approve the initial terms of our non-employee director compensation program. The material terms of the non-employee director compensation program, as it is currently contemplated, are summarized below.

The non-employee director compensation policy will provide for annual retainer fees and/or long-term equity awards for our non-employee directors. We expect each non-employee director will receive an annual retainer of $35,000. Non-employee directors serving as the chairs of the audit, compensation and nominating and corporate governance committees will receive additional annual retainers of $15,000, $10,000, and $8,000, respectively. The non-employee directors serving as members of the audit, compensation and nominating and corporate governance committees will receive additional annual retainers of $7,500 , $5,000, and $4,000, respectively. The non-employee directors will also receive initial grants of options to purchase              shares of our common stock, vesting over three years, upon election to the board of directors, and thereafter annual grants of options to purchase              shares of our common stock, vesting in substantially equal monthly installments over the 12 months following the date of grant (or, in the event the next annual meeting of our stockholders occurs prior to the first anniversary of the date of grant, any remaining unvested portion of the annual award will vest on the date of such annual meeting of our stockholders). Awards to our non-employee directors will also vest in the event of a change in control.

Compensation under our non-employee director compensation policy will be subject to the annual limits on non-employee director compensation set forth in the 2021 Plan, as described above. Our board of directors or its authorized committee may modify the non-employee director compensation program from time to time in the exercise of its business judgment, taking into account such factors, circumstances and considerations as it shall deem relevant from time to time, subject to the annual limit on non-employee director compensation set forth in the 2021 Plan (which limits will not apply to any non-employee director that serves in any additional capacity with the company for which he or she receives compensation or any compensation paid to any non-employee director prior to the calendar year following the calendar year in which this offering occurs). As provided in the 2021 Plan, our board of directors or its authorized committee may make exceptions to this limit for individual non-employee directors in extraordinary circumstances, as the board of directors or its authorized committee may determine in its discretion, provided that the non-employee director receiving such additional compensation may not participate in the decision to award such compensation or in other compensation decisions involving non-employee directors.

Limitations on Liability and Indemnification

On the completion of this offering, our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will contain provisions that limit the liability of our current and former directors for monetary damages to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law. Delaware law provides that directors of a corporation will not be personally liable for monetary damages for any breach of fiduciary duties as directors, except liability for:

 

   

any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders;

 

   

any act or omission not in good faith or that involves intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law;

 

   

unlawful payments of dividends or unlawful stock repurchases or redemptions; or

 

   

any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit.

 

166


Table of Contents

Such limitation of liability does not apply to liabilities arising under federal securities laws and does not affect the availability of equitable remedies such as injunctive relief or rescission.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation will authorize us to indemnify our directors, officers, employees and other agents to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law. Our amended and restated bylaws will provide that we are required to indemnify our directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law and may indemnify our other employees and agents. Our amended and restated bylaws will also provide that, on satisfaction of certain conditions, we will advance expenses incurred by a director or officer in advance of the final disposition of any action or proceeding, and permit us to secure insurance on behalf of any officer, director, employee, or other agent for any liability arising out of his or her actions in that capacity regardless of whether we would otherwise be permitted to indemnify him or her under the provisions of Delaware law. We have entered and expect to continue to enter into agreements to indemnify our directors, executive officers and other employees as determined by the board of directors. With certain exceptions, these agreements provide for indemnification for related expenses including attorneys’ fees, judgments, fines and settlement amounts incurred by any of these individuals in any action or proceeding.

We believe that these amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaw provisions and indemnification agreements are necessary to attract and retain qualified persons as directors and officers. We also maintain customary directors’ and officers’ liability insurance. The limitation of liability and indemnification provisions in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws may discourage stockholders from bringing a lawsuit against our directors for breach of their fiduciary duty. They may also reduce the likelihood of derivative litigation against our directors and officers, even though an action, if successful, might benefit us and other stockholders. Further, a stockholder’s investment may be adversely affected to the extent that we pay the costs of settlement and damage awards against directors and officers as required by these indemnification provisions.

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted for directors, executive officers, or persons controlling us, we have been informed that, in the opinion of the SEC, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is therefore unenforceable.

 

167


Table of Contents

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The following includes a summary of transactions since January 1, 2018 to which we have been a party in which the amount involved exceeded or will exceed the lessor of (i) $120,000 or (ii) 1% of the average of our total assets at fiscal year-end for our last two fiscal years, and in which any of our directors, executive officers or, to our knowledge, beneficial owners of more than 5% of our capital stock or any member of the immediate family of any of the foregoing persons had or will have a direct or indirect material interest, other than equity and other compensation, termination, change in control and other arrangements, which are described under “Executive and Director Compensation.” We also describe below certain other transactions with our directors, executive officers and stockholders.

Sales of Securities

Simple Agreements for Future Equity

Between October 2018 and March 2019, we entered into various SAFEs with certain investors pursuant to which we received $3.2 million in exchange for our agreement to issue the investors shares of our convertible preferred stock upon the occurrence of subsequent financings of our convertible preferred stock. Dr. Harris and members of his immediate family collectively purchased $500,450 of SAFEs in the aggregate, which converted into 81,903 shares of our Series A Preferred Stock. Mr. Bensen and a member of his immediate family collectively purchased $120,000 of SAFEs in the aggregate, which converted into 19,639 shares of our Series A Preferred Stock. Dr. Chen purchased $100,000 of SAFEs, which converted into 16,366 shares of our Series A Preferred Stock

Series A Convertible Preferred Stock Financing

In January 2020, we sold an aggregate of 2,848,486 shares of our Series A convertible preferred stock at a purchase price of $8.25 per share pursuant to agreements entered into with investors. In February 2021, we sold an aggregate of 2,848,486 additional shares of our Series A convertible preferred stock at a purchase price of $8.25 per share pursuant to agreements entered into with investors. Each share of our Series A convertible preferred stock will automatically convert into one share of our common stock immediately prior to the completion of this offering. All purchasers of our Series A convertible preferred stock are entitled to specified registration rights. See the section titled “Description of Capital Stock—Registration Rights” for more information regarding these registration rights.

The following table summarizes purchases of our Series A convertible preferred stock by related persons:

 

Participant

  

Shares of Series A
Preferred Stock

    

Total Purchase Price

 

Alta Partners NextGen Fund II, L.P. (1)

     1,212,122      $ 10,000,007  

RA Capital Healthcare Fund, L.P. (2)

     1,011,370      $ 8,343,803  

Blackwell Partners LLC—Series A (2)

     170,448      $ 1,406,196  

RA Capital Nexus Fund, L.P. (2)

     393,940      $ 3,250,005  

Boxer Capital, LLC (3)

     1,480,242      $ 12,211,997  

MVA Investors, LLC (3)

     95,516      $ 788,007  

Canaan XI L.P. (4)

     1,333,334      $ 11,000,006  

 

  (1)

Alta Partners NextGen Fund II, L.P., is an affiliate of Alta Partners, and is a holder of 5% or more of our capital stock. Robert More is a Managing Director at Alta Partners and a member of our board of directors.

 

  (2)

RA Capital Healthcare Fund, L.P., Blackwell Partners LLC – Series A and RA Capital Nexus Fund, L.P. are affiliates of RA Capital Management, L.P., or RA Capital, and RA Capital is a

 

168


Table of Contents
  holder of 5% or more of our capital stock. Jake Simson, Ph.D. is a Partner at RA Capital and a member of our board of directors.

 

  (3)

MVA Investors, LLC is affiliated with Boxer Capital, LLC. Boxer Capital, LLC and MVA Investors, LLC together hold 5% or more of our capital stock. Siddarth Subramony, Ph.D. is a Vice President of Boxer Capital, LLC and a member of our board of directors.

 

  (4)

Canaan XI L.P. is a holder of 5% or more of our capital stock. Nina Kjellson is a General Partner of Canaan Partners and a member of our board of directors.

Series B Preferred Stock Financing

In March 2021, we sold an aggregate of 3,874,793 shares of our Series B convertible preferred stock at a purchase price of $27.4337 per share pursuant to agreements entered into with investors. Each share of our Series B convertible preferred stock will automatically convert into one share of our common stock immediately prior to the completion of this offering. All purchasers of our Series B convertible preferred stock are entitled to specified registration rights. See the section titled “Description of Capital Stock—Registration Rights” for more information regarding these registration rights.

The following table summarizes purchases of our Series B convertible preferred stock by related persons:

 

Participant

  

Shares of Series B
Preferred Stock

    

Total Purchase Price

 

Alta Partners NextGen Fund II, L.P. (1)

     255,160      $ 6,999,983  

RA Capital Healthcare Fund, L.P. (2)

     546,773      $ 15,000,007  

RA Capital Nexus Fund, L.P. (2)

     182,257      $ 4,999,984  

Boxer Capital, LLC (3)

     713,629      $ 19,577,484  

MVA Investors, LLC (3)

     15,401      $ 422,506  

Canaan XI L.P. (4)

     364,515      $ 9,999,995  

Nextech VI Oncology SCSP (5)

     729,030      $ 19,999,990  

Isan Chen, M.D.

     7,290      $ 199,992  

 

  (1)

Alta Partners NextGen Fund II, L.P. is an affiliate of Alta Partners and is a holder of 5% or more of our capital stock. Robert More is a Managing Director at Alta Partners and a member of our board of directors.

 

  (2)

RA Capital Healthcare Fund, L.P. and RA Capital Nexus Fund, L.P. are affiliates RA Capital, and RA Capital is a holder of 5% or more of our capital stock. Jake Simson, Ph.D. is a Partner at RA Capital and a member of our board of directors.

 

  (3)

MVA Investors, LLC is affiliated with Boxer Capital, LLC. Boxer Capital, LLC and MVA Investors, LLC together hold 5% or more of our capital stock. Siddarth Subramony, Ph.D. is a Vice President of Boxer Capital, LLC and a member of our board of directors.

 

  (4)

Canaan XI L.P. and Canaan 2020+ Co-Investment LP together hold 5% or more of our capital stock. Nina Kjellson is a manager of Canaan Partners XI LLC, the general partner of Canaan XI LP and the sole member of the applicable series investment committee of Canaan Partners 2020+ Co-Investment LLC, the general partner of Canaan 2020+ Co-Investment LP, and is a member of our board of directors.

 

  (5)

Nextech VI Oncology SCSP is an affiliate of Nextech Invest Ltd. and is a holder of 5% or more of our capital stock. Melissa McCracken, Ph.D. is a Principal at Nextech Invest Ltd. and a member of our board of directors.

 

169


Table of Contents

Investor Agreements

In connection with our Series B financing described above, we entered into an amended and restated investors’ rights agreement, amended and restated voting agreement and amended and restated right of first refusal and co-sale agreement, which contain registration rights, information rights, voting rights, and rights of first refusal and co-sale, among other things, with certain of our stockholders. Pursuant to our voting agreement, certain of our stockholders have the right to designate member(s) to be elected to our board of directors. See the section titled “Management—Family Relationships and Other Arrangements.” The foregoing agreements will terminate upon the completion of this offering, except for the registration rights set forth in the amended and restated investors’ rights agreement, as more fully described below in “Description of Capital Stock—Registration Rights.”

Directed Share Program

At our request, the underwriters have reserved for sale, at the initial public offering price, up to     % of the shares offered by this prospectus, excluding the additional shares that the underwriters have a 30-day option to purchase, for sale to certain of our directors and officers and certain other parties related to us.

Employment Agreements

We have entered into employment agreements with our named executive officers. For more information regarding the agreements with our named executive officers, see “Executive and Director Compensation— Employment Arrangements with our Named Executive Officers.”

Consulting Agreement with van den Boom & Associates, LLC

On December 23, 2018, we entered into a consulting agreement with van den Boom & Associates, LLC, or van den Boom & Associates, to provide (i) a resource to assist with finance department and administrative oversight, or Oversight Resources, and (ii) resources to assist with day-to-day accounting functions, or Accounting Resources. Services provided under the agreement with van den Boom & Associates are billed at hourly rates. In April 2021, Ms. van den Boom, the managing partner of van den Boom & Associates, signed an employment agreement with our company whereby she became our Chief Financial Officer on a half-time basis. Following the date of her employment agreement, we anticipate that Oversight Resources previously provided under the consulting agreement will be provided to us pursuant to Ms. van den Boom’s employment agreement and that payments for Accounting Resources under the consulting agreement during the year ending December 31, 2021 will exceed the lesser of $120,000 and 1% of the average of our company’s total assets at the end of the last two fiscal years.

Stock Options Granted to Executive Officers and Directors

We have granted stock options to our executive officers, as more fully described in the section titled “Executive and Director Compensation.”

Director and Officer Indemnification

We have entered into indemnification agreements with each of our directors and executive officers. These agreements, among other things, require us or will require us to indemnify each director (and in certain cases their related venture capital funds) and executive officer to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law, including indemnification of expenses such as attorneys’ fees, judgments, fines and settlement amounts incurred by the director or executive officer in any action or proceeding, including any action or proceeding by or in right of us, arising out of the person’s services as a director or executive officer.

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and our amended and restated bylaws provide that we will indemnify each of our directors and officers to the fullest extent permitted by the Delaware General

 

170


Table of Contents

Corporation Law. Further, we have purchased a policy of directors’ and officers’ liability insurance that insures our directors and officers against the cost of defense, settlement or payment of a judgment under certain circumstances. For further information, see “Executive and Director Compensation—Limitations of Liability and Indemnification Matters.”

Policies and Procedures for Related Person Transactions

Our board of directors will adopt a written related person transaction policy, to be effective upon the closing of this offering, setting forth the policies and procedures for the review and approval or ratification of related person transactions. This policy will cover, with certain exceptions set forth in Item 404 of Regulation S-K under the Securities Act, any transaction, arrangement or relationship, or any series of similar transactions, arrangements or relationships in which we were or are to be a participant, where the amount involved exceeds the lesser of $120,000 or one percent of the average of our total assets at year-end for the last two completed fiscal years, and a related person had or will have a direct or indirect material interest, including, without limitation, purchases of goods or services by or from the related person or entities in which the related person has a material interest, indebtedness, guarantees of indebtedness and employment by us of a related person. In reviewing and approving any such transactions, our audit committee is tasked to consider all relevant facts and circumstances, including, but not limited to, whether the transaction is on terms comparable to those that could be obtained in an arm’s length transaction and the extent of the related person’s interest in the transaction. All of the transactions described in this section occurred prior to the adoption of this policy.

 

171


Table of Contents

PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS

The following table sets forth certain information known to us regarding beneficial ownership of our capital stock as of June 30, 2021, as adjusted to reflect the sale of common stock offered by us in this offering, for:

 

   

each person or group of affiliated persons known by us to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of our capital stock;

 

   

each of our named executive officers;

 

   

each of our directors; and

 

   

all of our executive officers and directors as a group.

Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and generally includes voting or investment power with respect to securities. Under those rules, beneficial ownership includes any shares as to which the individual or entity has sole or shared voting power or investment power. Except as noted by footnote, and subject to community property laws where applicable, we believe, based on the information provided to us, that the persons and entities named in the table below have sole voting and investment power with respect to all common stock shown as beneficially owned by them.

Each individual or entity shown on the table has furnished information with respect to beneficial ownership. Unless otherwise indicated, the address for each beneficial owner is c/o Tyra Biosciences, Inc., 2656 State Street, Carlsbad, CA 92008.

The percentage of beneficial ownership prior to this offering in the table below is based on 11,594,360 shares of common stock deemed to be outstanding as of June 30, 2021, assuming the automatic conversion of all outstanding shares of our Series A convertible preferred stock and Series B convertible preferred stock immediately prior to the completion of this offering into 10,097,839 shares of our common stock, and the percentage of beneficial ownership after this offering in the table below is based on              shares of common stock assumed to be outstanding after the completion of the offering, assuming no exercise by the underwriters of their option to purchase additional shares and without giving effect to any potential purchases in this offering, including pursuant to the directed share program relating to this offering. Outstanding shares as June 30, 2021 include 582,389 shares of unvested restricted common stock. These unvested restricted shares have the same voting rights as unrestricted shares of our common stock and, therefore, have been included for the purposes of calculating beneficial ownership below.

 

172


Table of Contents

See Note 2 and Note 7 to our audited and unaudited financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus for a discussion of our outstanding restricted common stock.

 

     Number of
Shares Beneficially Owned
     Percentage of
Shares Beneficially Owned
 

Name of Beneficial Owner

   Before
Offering
    After
Offering
 

5% and Greater Stockholders

       

Alta Partners NextGen Fund II, L.P.(1)

     1,510,760        13.0         

Entities affiliated with RA Capital Healthcare Fund(2)

     2,304,788      19.9         

Entities affiliated with Boxer Capital LLC(3)

     2,304,788        19.9         

Canaan XI L.P.(4)

     1,697,849        14.6         

Nextech VI Oncology SCSP(5)

     729,030      6.3         

Named Executive Officers and Directors

       

Todd Harris, Ph.D.(6)

     837,443        7.2         

Daniel Bensen(7)

     312,683        2.7         

Ron Swanson, Ph.D.(8)

     109,410        *           

Isan Chen, M.D.(9)

     76,927        *           

Gilla Kaplan, Ph.D.(10)

     37,210        *           

Nina Kjellson

     —          —             

Melissa McCracken, Ph.D.

     —          —             

Robert More(1)

     1,510,760        13.0         

Jake Simson, Ph.D.

     —          —             

Siddarth Subramony, Ph.D.

     —          —             

Rehan Verjee

     1,442        *           

All current directors and executive officers as a group (15 persons)(11)

     3,195,982        27.0         

 

*

Less than 1%.

(1)

Consists of 1,510,760 shares of our common stock held by Alta Partners NextGen Fund II, L.P, or Alta. Alta Partners Nextgen Fund II Management, LLC is the general partner of Alta. Daniel Janney, Peter Hudson and Robert More, a member of our board of directors, share voting or investment power over the shares held by Alta. Each of the individuals and entities listed above expressly disclaims beneficial interest of the shares listed above except to the extent of any pecuniary interest therein. The principal address for Alta is Four Embarcadero Center, Suite 2100, San Francisco, CA 94111.

(2)

Consists of (i) 1,558,143 shares of our common stock held by RA Capital Healthcare Fund, L.P. (RA Healthcare); (ii) 576,197 shares of our common stock held by RA Capital Nexus Fund, L.P. (Nexus); and (iii) 170,448 shares of our common stock held by Blackwell Partners LLC—Series A, or Blackwell. RA Capital Management, L.P. is the investment manager for RA Healthcare, Nexus II and Blackwell. The general partner of RA Capital Management, L.P. is RA Capital Management GP, LLC, of which Peter Kolchinsky and Rajeev Shah are the managing members. RA Capital Management, L.P., RA Capital Management GP, LLC, Peter Kolchinsky and Rajeev Shah may be deemed to have voting and investment power over the shares held of record by RA Healthcare, Nexus and Blackwell. RA Capital Management, L.P., RA Capital Management GP, LLC, Peter Kolchinsky and Rajeev Shah disclaim beneficial ownership of such shares, except to the extent of any pecuniary interest therein. The address of the entities listed above is 200 Berkeley Street, 18th Floor, Boston, Massachusetts 02116.

(3)

Consists of (i) 2,193,871 shares of our common stock held by Boxer Capital, LLC, or Boxer Capital and (ii) 110,917 shares of our common stock held by MVA Investors, LLC, or MVA. Boxer Capital, Boxer Asset Management Inc., or Boxer Management, and Joe Lewis hold shared voting and dispositive power over the shares held by Boxer Capital, and Aaron Davis holds voting and dispositive power over the shares owned by MVA. Each of the individuals and entities listed above expressly disclaims beneficial interest of the shares listed above except to the extent of any pecuniary interest therein. The principal business address of Boxer Capital, MVA and Aaron Davis is: 12860 El Camino Real, Suite 300, San Diego, CA 92130. The principal business address of Boxer Management and Joe Lewis is: c/o Cay House P.O. Box N-7776 E.P. Taylor Drive Lyford Cay, New Providence, Bahamas.

 

173


Table of Contents
(4)

Consists of (i) 1,515,591 shares of our common stock held by Canaan XI LP and (ii) 182,258 shares of our common stock held by Canaan 2020+ Co-Investment LP. Canaan Partners XI LLC may be deemed to have sole investment and voting power over the shares held by Canaan XI L.P and Canaan 2020+ Co-Investment LP. Nina Kjellson, a member of our board of directors, Brenton K. Ahrens, Joydeep Bhattacharyya, Richard J. Boyle Jr., Wende S. Hutton, Maha S. Ibrahim, Guy M. Russo, Tim M. Shannon and Hrach Simonian are the managers of Canaan Partners XI LLC. Investment, voting and dispositive decisions with respect to the shares held by Canaan XI L.P. and Canaan Partners 2020+ Co-Investment LLC are made by the managers of Canaan Partners XI LLC, collectively. The address for Canaan XI L.P. and Canaan 2020+ Co-Investment LP is 285 Riverside Ave, Suite 250, Westport, CT 06880.

(5)

Consists of 729,030 shares of our common stock held by Nextech VI Oncology SCSP. Nextech VI Oncology SCSp represented by its General Partner Nextech VI GP S.a.r.l. Dalia Bleyer, Rocco Sgobbo and Ian Charoub have shared voting power as Managers in Nextech VI GP S.a.r.l., the General Partner of Nextech VI Oncology SCSp, and Alfred Scheidegger, Thilo Schroeder and Jakob Loven have shared voting power in Nextech Invest AG, the Investment Advisor of Nextech VI Oncology SCSp. Each of the individuals and entities listed above expressly disclaims beneficial interest of the shares listed above except to the extent of any pecuniary interest therein. The address for Nextech VI Oncology SCSP is 8, rue Lou Hemmer, L-1748 Senningerberg, Luxembourg.

(6)

Consists of (i) 653,093 shares of our common stock held directly, (ii) 40,000 shares of our common stock held Harris Family Irrevocable Trust 1, (iii) 40,000 shares of our common stock held Harris Family Irrevocable Trust 2, (iv) 40,000 shares of our common stock held Harris Family Irrevocable Trust 3, (v) 40,000 shares of our common stock held Harris Family Irrevocable Trust 4 and (vi) 24,350 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options granted to Dr. Harris that are exercisable within 60 days of June 30, 2021. Ryan Harris is the sole trustee of each of Harris Family Irrevocable Trust 1, Harris Family Irrevocable Trust 2, Harris Family Irrevocable Trust 3 and Harris Family Irrevocable Trust 4, the beneficiaries of which are each of Dr. Harris’ four children. By virtue of the respective trust agreements, Ryan Harris has sole voting and dispositive power over shares held by each of these trusts.

(7)

Consists of (i) 203,273 shares of our common stock held directly and (ii) 109,410 shares of our common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options granted to Mr. Bensen that are exercisable within 60 days of June 30, 2021.

(8)

Consists of (i) 104,000 shares of our common stock held directly and (ii) 5,410 shares of our common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options granted to Dr. Swanson that are exercisable within 60 days of June 30, 2021.

(9)

Consists of (i) 74,222 shares of our common stock held directly and (ii) 2,705 shares of our common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options granted to Dr. Chen that are exercisable within 60 days of June 30, 2021.

(10)

Consists of (i) 10,869 shares of our common stock held directly and (ii) 26,341 shares of our common stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options granted to Dr. Kaplan that are exercisable within 60 days of June 30, 2021.

(11)

Consists of (i) 2,956,079 and (ii) 239,903 shares of common stock underlying stock options exercisable within 60 days of June 30, 2021.

 

174


Table of Contents

DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK

General

The following description summarizes some of the terms of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws, each of which will become effective upon the completion of this offering, the investors’ rights agreement and of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware. Because it is only a summary, it does not contain all the information that may be important to you. For a complete description, you should refer to our amended and restated certificate of incorporation, amended and restated bylaws and amended and restated investors’ rights agreement, copies of which have been or will be filed as exhibits to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part, as well as the relevant provisions of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware. The description of our common stock and preferred stock reflects changes to our capital structure that will occur upon the completion of this offering.

Following the completion of this offering, our authorized capital stock will consist of 500,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, and 50,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.0001 per share.

As of June 30, 2021, there were 1,496,521 shares of our common stock outstanding and 10,097,839 shares of our common stock issuable upon the automatic conversion of all outstanding shares of our preferred stock in connection with this offering, held of record by 86 stockholders.

Common stock

Holders of our common stock are entitled to one vote for each share held on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders and do not have cumulative voting rights. An election of directors by our stockholders shall be determined by a plurality of the votes cast by the stockholders entitled to vote on the election. Subject to the supermajority votes for some matters, other matters shall be decided by the affirmative vote of our stockholders having a majority in voting power of the votes cast by the stockholders present or represented and voting on such matter. Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws also provide that our directors may be removed only for cause and only by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds in voting power of the outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote thereon. In addition, the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds in voting power of the outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote thereon is required to amend or repeal, or to adopt any provision inconsistent with, several of the provisions of our amended and restated certificate of incorporation. See below under “—Anti-Takeover Effects of Delaware Law and Our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws—Amendment of Charter Provisions.” Holders of common stock are entitled to receive proportionately any dividends as may be declared by our board of directors, subject to any preferential dividend rights of any series of preferred stock that we may designate and issue in the future.

In the event of our liquidation or dissolution, the holders of common stock are entitled to receive proportionately our net assets available for distribution to stockholders after the payment of all debts and other liabilities and subject to the prior rights of any outstanding preferred stock. Holders of common stock have no preemptive, subscription, redemption or conversion rights. Our outstanding shares of common stock are, and the shares offered by us in this offering will be, when issued and paid for, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable. The rights, preferences and privileges of holders of common stock are subject to and may be adversely affected by the rights of the holders of shares of any series of preferred stock that we may designate and issue in the future.

Preferred stock

Under the terms of our restated certificate of incorporation that will become effective upon the completion of this offering, our board of directors is authorized to direct us to issue shares of preferred stock in one or more series without stockholder approval. Our board of directors has the discretion to determine the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions, including voting rights, dividend rights, conversion rights, redemption privileges and liquidation preferences, of each series of preferred stock.

 

175


Table of Contents

The purpose of authorizing our board of directors to issue preferred stock and determine its rights and preferences is to eliminate delays associated with a stockholder vote on specific issuances. The issuance of preferred stock, while providing flexibility in connection with possible acquisitions, future financings and other corporate purposes, could have the effect of making it more difficult for a third party to acquire, or could discourage a third party from seeking to acquire, a majority of our outstanding voting stock. Upon the completion of this offering, there will be no shares of preferred stock outstanding, and we have no present plans to issue any shares of preferred stock.

Options

As of June 30, 2021, options to purchase 995,940 shares of our common stock were outstanding under our 2020 Plan, of which 234,047 were exercisable as of that date. For additional information regarding the terms of our 2020 Plan, see “Executive and Director Compensation—Incentive award plans—2020 Equity Incentive Plan.”

Registration Rights

Immediately following this offering, holders of              shares of our common stock will be entitled to certain rights with respect to the registration of such shares for public resale under the Securities Act, pursuant to an amended and restated investors’ rights agreement by and among us and certain of our stockholders, until the rights otherwise terminate pursuant to the terms of the investors’ rights agreement. The registration of shares of common stock as a result of the following rights being exercised would enable holders to trade these shares without restriction under the Securities Act when the applicable registration statement is declared effective.

Form S-1 Registration Rights

If at any time beginning 180 days after the closing date of this offering the holders of at least 50% of the registrable securities then outstanding request in writing that we effect a registration with respect to at least 50% of the registrable securities then outstanding, we may be required to register their shares. We are obligated to effect at most two registrations in response to these demand registration rights. If the holders requesting registration intend to distribute their shares by means of an underwriting, the managing underwriter of such offering will have the right to limit the number of shares to be underwritten for reasons related to the marketing of the shares.

Piggyback Registration Rights

If at any time after this offering we propose to register any shares of our common stock under the Securities Act, subject to certain exceptions, the holders of registrable securities will be entitled to a notice of the registration and to include their shares of registrable securities in the registration. If our proposed registration involves an underwriting, the managing underwriter of such offering will have the right to limit the number of shares to be underwritten for reasons related to the marketing of the shares.

Form S-3 Registration Rights

If, at any time after we become entitled under the Securities Act to register our shares on a registration statement on Form S-3, the holders of at least 25% of the registrable securities then outstanding request in writing that we effect a registration with respect to the registrable securities of such holders at an aggregate price to the public in the offering of at least $5,000,000, we will be required to effect such registration; provided, however, that we will not be required to effect such a registration if, within any twelve month period, we have already effected two registrations on Form S-3 for the holders of registrable securities.

Expenses and Indemnification

Ordinarily, other than underwriting discounts and commissions, we will be required to pay all expenses incurred by us related to any registration effected pursuant to the exercise of these registration rights. These

 

176


Table of Contents

expenses may include all registration and filing fees, printing expenses, fees and disbursements of our counsel, reasonable fees and disbursements of a counsel for the selling securityholders (not to exceed $30,000) and blue sky fees and expenses. Additionally, we have agreed to indemnify selling stockholders for damages, and any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred, arising from or based upon any untrue statement of a material fact contained in any registration statement, an omission or alleged omission to state a material fact in any registration statement or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, or any violation or alleged violation by the indemnifying party of securities laws, subject to certain exceptions.

Termination of Registration Rights

Each of the foregoing registration rights terminate upon the earlier of five years after the effective date of the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part, the closing of a deemed liquidation event, as defined in our current amended and restated certificate of incorporation, or as to any holder at such time as Rule 144 or another similar exemption under the Securities Act is available for the sale of all of such holders shares without limitation during a three-month period without registration.

Anti-Takeover Effects of Delaware Law and Our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws

Some provisions of Delaware law, our amended and restated certificate of incorporation and our amended and restated bylaws could make the following transactions more difficult: an acquisition of us by means of a tender offer; an acquisition of us by means of a proxy contest or otherwise; or the removal of our incumbent officers and directors. It is possible that these provisions could make it more difficult to accomplish or could deter transactions that stockholders may otherwise consider to be in their best interest or in our best interests, including transactions which provide for payment of a premium over the market price for our shares.

These provisions, summarized below, are intended to discourage coercive takeover practices and inadequate takeover bids. These provisions are also designed to encourage persons seeking to acquire control of us to first negotiate with our board of directors. We believe that the benefits of the increased protection of our potential ability to negotiate with the proponent of an unfriendly or unsolicited proposal to acquire or restructure us outweigh the disadvantages of discouraging these proposals because negotiation of these proposals could result in an improvement of their terms.

Undesignated Preferred Stock

The ability of our board of directors, without action by the stockholders, to issue up to 10,000,000 shares of undesignated preferred stock with voting or other rights or preferences as designated by our board of directors could impede the success of any attempt to change control of us. These and other provisions may have the effect of deferring hostile takeovers or delaying changes in control or management of our company.

Stockholder Meetings

Our restated bylaws provide that a special meeting of stockholders may be called only by our chairman of the board, chief executive officer or president (in the absence of a chief executive officer), or by a resolution adopted by a majority of our board of directors.

Requirements for Advance Notification of Stockholder Nominations and Proposals

Our restated bylaws establish advance notice procedures with respect to stockholder proposals to be brought before a stockholder meeting and the nomination of candidates for election as directors, other than nominations made by or at the direction of the board of directors or a committee of the board of directors.

 

177


Table of Contents

Elimination of Stockholder Action by Written Consent

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation eliminates the right of stockholders to act by written consent without a meeting.

Staggered Board

Our board of directors is divided into three classes. The directors in each class will serve for a three-year term, one class being elected each year by our stockholders. For more information on the classified board, see “Management—Board Composition.” This system of electing and removing directors may tend to discourage a third party from making a tender offer or otherwise attempting to obtain control of us, because it generally makes it more difficult for stockholders to replace a majority of the directors.

Removal of Directors

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that no member of our board of directors may be removed from office by our stockholders except for cause and, in addition to any other vote required by law, upon the approval of the holders of at least two-thirds in voting power of the outstanding shares of stock entitled to vote in the election of directors.

Stockholders Not Entitled to Cumulative Voting

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation does not permit stockholders to cumulate their votes in the election of directors. Accordingly, the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of our common stock entitled to vote in any election of directors can elect all of the directors standing for election, if they choose, other than any directors that holders of our preferred stock may be entitled to elect.

Delaware Anti-Takeover Statute

We are subject to Section 203 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, which prohibits persons deemed to be “interested stockholders” from engaging in a “business combination” with a publicly held Delaware corporation for three years following the date these persons become interested stockholders unless the business combination is, or the transaction in which the person became an interested stockholder was, approved in a prescribed manner or another prescribed exception applies. Generally, an “interested stockholder” is a person who, together with affiliates and associates, owns, or within three years prior to the determination of interested stockholder status did own, 15% or more of a corporation’s voting stock. Generally, a “business combination” includes a merger, asset or stock sale, or other transaction resulting in a financial benefit to the interested stockholder. The existence of this provision may have an anti-takeover effect with respect to transactions not approved in advance by the board of directors.

Choice of Forum

Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation provides that, unless we consent in writing to the selection of an alternative form, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware will be the sole and exclusive forum for the following types of actions or proceedings under Delaware statutory or common law: (1) any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf; (2) any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty or other wrongdoing by any of our directors, officers, employees or agents to us or our stockholders, creditors or other constituents; (3) any action asserting a claim against us arising pursuant to any provision of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware or our certificate of incorporation or bylaws; or (4) any action asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine. For instance, the provision would not apply to actions arising under federal securities laws, including suits brought to enforce any liability or duty created by the Securities Act, Exchange Act, or the rules and regulations thereunder. Our amended and restated certificate of

 

178


Table of Contents

incorporation further provides that, unless we consent in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the federal district courts of the United States of America shall, to the fullest extent permitted by law, be the sole and exclusive forum for the resolution of any complaint asserting a cause of action arising under the Securities Act, including all causes of action asserted against any defendant to such compliant. For the avoidance of doubt, this provision is intended to benefit and may be enforced by us, our officers and directors, the underwriters to any offering giving rise to such complaint, and any other professional entity whose profession gives authority to a statement made by that person or entity and who has prepared or certified any part of the documents underlying the offering. In any case, stockholders will not be deemed to have waived our compliance with the federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder. The enforceability of similar choice of forum provisions in other companies’ certificates of incorporation has been challenged in legal proceedings, and it is possible that a court could find these types of provisions to be inapplicable or unenforceable. Our amended and restated certificate of incorporation also provides that any person or entity purchasing or otherwise acquiring any interest in shares of our capital stock will be deemed to have notice of and to have consented to this choice of forum provision. It is possible that a court of law could rule that the choice of forum provision contained in our amended and restated certificate of incorporation is inapplicable or unenforceable if it is challenged in a proceeding or otherwise.

Amendment of Charter Provisions

The amendment of any of the above provisions, except for the provision making it possible for our board of directors to issue preferred stock and the provision prohibiting cumulative voting, would require approval by holders of at least two-thirds in voting power of the outstanding shares of stock entitled to vote thereon.

The provisions of Delaware law, our restated certificate of incorporation and our restated bylaws could have the effect of discouraging others from attempting hostile takeovers and, as a consequence, they may also inhibit temporary fluctuations in the market price of our common stock that often result from actual or rumored hostile takeover attempts. These provisions may also have the effect of preventing changes in the composition of our board and management. It is possible that these provisions could make it more difficult to accomplish transactions that stockholders may otherwise deem to be in their best interests.

Transfer Agent and Registrar

The transfer agent and registrar for our common stock will be the Computershare Trust Company, N.A.. The transfer agent and registrar’s address is 250 Royall Street, Canton, M.A. 02021

Stock Exchange Listing

We have applied to list our common stock on Nasdaq under the trading symbol “TYRA.”

Limitations on Liability and Indemnification

For a discussion of liability and indemnification, see “Executive and Director Compensation—Limitations on Liability and Indemnification.”

 

179


Table of Contents

SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE

Immediately prior to this offering, there was no public market for our common stock. Future sales of substantial amounts of common stock in the public market, or the perception that such sales may occur, could adversely affect the market price of our common stock.

Based on the number of shares of our common stock outstanding as of June 30, 2021, upon the completion of this offering, we will have outstanding an aggregate of              shares of common stock, assuming (i) the issuance of              shares of common stock offered by us in this offering, (ii) the automatic conversion of all outstanding shares of our convertible preferred stock into 10,097,839 shares of our common stock and the related reclassification of the carrying value of the convertible preferred stock to permanent equity upon the completion of this offering, (iii) no exercise of the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares of common stock and (iv) no exercise of outstanding options after June 30, 2021. Of these shares, all shares sold in this offering will be freely tradable without restriction or further registration under the Securities Act, except for any shares purchased by our “affiliates,” as that term is defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act, whose sales would be subject to the Rule 144 resale restrictions described below, other than the holding period requirement.

The remaining              shares of common stock will be “restricted securities,” as that term is defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act. These restricted securities are eligible for public sale only if they are registered under the Securities Act or if they qualify for an exemption from registration under Rules 144 or 701 under the Securities Act, which are summarized below. We expect that substantially all of these shares will be subject to the 180-day lock-up period under the lock-up agreements described below. Upon expiration of the lock-up period, we estimate that approximately              shares will be available for sale in the public market, subject in some cases to applicable volume limitations under Rule 144.

In addition, of the 995,940 shares of our common stock that were subject to stock options outstanding as of June 30, 2021, options to purchase 89,825 shares of common stock were vested as of June 30, 2021 and, upon exercise, these shares will be eligible for sale subject to the lock–up agreements described below and Rules 144 and 701 under the Securities Act.

Lock-Up Agreements

In connection with this offering, we, our directors, our executive officers and holders of substantially all of our other outstanding shares of common stock or securities convertible into or exchangeable for shares of our common stock outstanding upon the completion of this offering, have agreed, subject to certain limited exceptions, with the underwriters not to directly or indirectly offer, sell, contract to sell, pledge, grant any option to purchase, make any short sale or otherwise dispose of or hedge any shares of our common stock or any options to purchase shares of our common stock, or any securities convertible into or exchangeable for shares of common stock during the period from the date of the lock-up agreement continuing through and including the date 180 days after the date of this prospectus, except with the prior written consent of the representatives of the underwriters, and certain other limited exceptions.

Upon the expiration of the applicable lock-up period, substantially all of the shares subject to such lock-up restrictions will become eligible for sale, subject to the limitations discussed above. For a further description of these lock-up agreements, please see “Underwriting.”

In addition to the restrictions contained in the lock-up agreements described above, we have entered into agreements with certain security holders, including the amended and restated investors’ rights agreement, our standard form of option agreement, our standard form of restricted stock agreement and our standard form of restricted stock purchase agreement, that contain market stand-off provisions or incorporate market stand-off provisions from our equity incentive plan imposing restrictions on the ability of such security holders to offer, sell or transfer our equity securities for a period of 180 days following the date of this prospectus.

 

180


Table of Contents

Rule 10b5-1 Trading Plans

Following the completion of this offering, certain of our officers, directors and significant stockholders may adopt written plans, known as Rule 10b5-1 trading plans, in which they will contract with a broker to buy or sell shares of our common stock on a periodic basis to diversify their assets and investments. Under these 10b5-1 trading plans, a broker may execute trades pursuant to parameters established by the officer, director or stockholder when entering into the plan, without further direction from such officer, director or stockholder. Such sales would not commence until the expiration of the applicable lock-up agreements entered into by such officer, director or stockholder in connection with this offering.

Rule 144

Affiliate Resales of Restricted Securities

In general, beginning 90 days after the effective date of the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part, a person who is an affiliate of ours, or who was an affiliate at any time during the 90 days before a sale, who has beneficially owned shares of our common stock for at least six months would be entitled to sell in “broker’s transactions” or certain “riskless principal transactions” or to market makers, a number of shares within any three-month period that does not exceed the greater of:

 

   

1% of the number of shares of our common stock then outstanding, which will equal approximately              shares immediately after this offering; or

 

   

the average weekly trading volume in our common stock on the Nasdaq during the four calendar weeks preceding the filing of a notice on Form 144 with respect to such sale.

Affiliate resales under Rule 144 are also subject to the availability of current public information about us. In addition, if the number of shares being sold under Rule 144 by an affiliate during any three-month period exceeds 5,000 shares or has an aggregate sale price in excess of $50,000, the seller must file a notice on Form 144 with the SEC and Nasdaq concurrently with either the placing of a sale order with the broker or the execution directly with a market maker.

Non-Affiliate Resales of Restricted Securities

In general, beginning 90 days after the effective date of the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part, a person who is not an affiliate of ours at the time of sale, and has not been an affiliate at any time during the three months preceding a sale, and who has beneficially owned shares of our common stock for at least six months but less than a year, is entitled to sell such shares subject only to the availability of current public information about us. If such person has held our shares for at least one year, such person can resell under Rule 144(b)(1) without regard to any Rule 144 restrictions, including the 90-day public company requirement and the current public information requirement.

Non-affiliate resales are not subject to the manner of sale, volume limitation or notice filing provisions of Rule 144.

Rule 701

In general, under Rule 701, any of an issuer’s employees, directors, officers, consultants or advisors who purchases shares from the issuer in connection with a compensatory stock or option plan or other written agreement before the effective date of a registration statement under the Securities Act is entitled to sell such shares 90 days after such effective date in reliance on Rule 144. An affiliate of the issuer can resell shares in reliance on Rule 144 without having to comply with the holding period requirement, and non-affiliates of the issuer can resell shares in reliance on Rule 144 without having to comply with the current public information and holding period requirements.

 

181


Table of Contents

The SEC has indicated that Rule 701 will apply to typical stock options granted by an issuer before it becomes subject to the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, along with the shares acquired upon exercise of such options, including exercises after an issuer becomes subject to the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act.

Equity Plans

We intend to file one or more registration statements on Form S-8 under the Securities Act to register all shares of common stock subject to outstanding stock options and common stock issued or issuable under our stock plans. We expect to file the registration statement covering shares offered pursuant to our stock plans shortly after the date of this prospectus, permitting the resale of such shares by non-affiliates in the public market without restriction under the Securities Act and the sale by affiliates in the public market, subject to compliance with the resale provisions of Rule 144.

Registration Rights

Upon the completion of this offering, the holders of              shares of common stock or their transferees, which includes all of the shares of common stock issuable upon the automatic conversion of 10,097,839 shares of our common stock immediately prior to the completion of this offering, will be entitled to various rights with respect to the registration of these shares under the Securities Act. Registration of these shares under the Securities Act would result in these shares becoming fully tradable without restriction under the Securities Act immediately upon the effectiveness of the registration, except for shares purchased by affiliates. See “Description of Capital Stock—Registration Rights” for additional information. Shares covered by a registration statement will be eligible for sale in the public market upon the expiration or release from the terms of the lock-up agreement described above.

Directed Share Program

At our request, the underwriters have reserved for sale, at the initial public offering price, up to                 % of the shares offered by this prospectus, excluding the additional shares that the underwriters have a 30-day option to purchase, for sale to certain of our directors and officers and certain other parties related to us. Shares purchased through the directed share program will not be subject to lockup restrictions with the underwriters, except in the case of shares purchased by any of our directors or executive officers. See “Underwriting—Reserved Shares.”

 

182


Table of Contents

MATERIAL U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX

CONSIDERATIONS FOR NON-U.S. HOLDERS OF COMMON STOCK

The following discussion is a summary of material U.S. federal income tax considerations applicable to non-U.S. holders (as defined below) with respect to their ownership and disposition of shares of our common stock issued pursuant to this offering. For purposes of this discussion, a non-U.S. holder means a beneficial owner of our common stock that is, for U.S. federal income tax purposes:

 

   

a non-resident alien individual;

 

   

a foreign corporation or any other foreign organization taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes; or

 

   

a foreign estate or trust, the income of which is not subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net income basis.

This discussion does not address the tax treatment of partnerships or other entities or arrangements that are treated as pass-through entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes or persons that hold their shares of our common stock through partnerships or such other pass-through entities. The tax treatment of a partner in a partnership or other entity or arrangement that is treated as a pass-through entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes generally will depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. A partner in a partnership or an investor in any other pass-through entity that will hold our common stock should consult his, her or its tax advisor regarding the tax consequences of acquiring, holding and disposing of our common stock through a partnership or other pass-through entity, as applicable.

This discussion is based on current provisions of the Code, existing and proposed U.S. Treasury regulations promulgated thereunder, current administrative rulings and judicial decisions, all as in effect as of the date of this prospectus and, all of which are subject to change or to differing interpretation, possibly with retroactive effect. Any such change or differing interpretation could alter the tax consequences to non-U.S. holders described in this prospectus. There can be no assurance that the Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, will not challenge one or more of the tax consequences described herein. We assume in this discussion that a non-U.S. holder holds shares of our common stock as a capital asset, which is generally property held for investment.

This discussion does not address all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be relevant to a particular non-U.S. holder in light of that non-U.S. holder’s individual circumstances, including the alternative minimum tax, the Medicare tax on net investment income or the rules relating to “qualified small business stock,” any U.S. federal tax other than the income tax (including, for example, the estate tax), nor does it address any aspects of U.S. state, local or non-U.S. taxes. This discussion also does not address the special tax rules applicable to certain particular non-U.S. holders, such as:

 

  1.

insurance companies;

 

  2.

tax-exempt or governmental organizations;

 

  3.

financial institutions;

 

  4.

brokers or dealers in securities;

 

  5.

regulated investment companies;

 

  6.

pension plans;

 

183


Table of Contents
  7.

“controlled foreign corporations,” “passive foreign investment companies,” and corporations that accumulate earnings to avoid U.S. federal income tax;

 

  8.

“qualified foreign pension funds,” or entities wholly owned by a “qualified foreign pension fund”;

 

  9.

partnerships or other entities or arrangements treated as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes (and partners and investors therein);

 

  10.

persons that have a functional currency other than the U.S. dollar;

 

  11.

persons deemed to sell our common stock under the constructive sale provisions of the Code;

 

  12.

persons that hold our common stock as part of a straddle, hedge, conversion transaction, synthetic security or other integrated investment;

 

  13.

persons that hold or receive our common stock pursuant to the exercise of any employee stock option or otherwise as compensation;

 

  14.

investors in pass-through entities (or entities that are treated as disregarded entities for U.S. federal income tax purposes); and

 

  15.

U.S. expatriates.

This discussion is for general information only and is not tax advice. Accordingly, all prospective non-U.S. holders of our common stock should consult their tax advisors with respect to the U.S. federal, state, local, non-income and non-U.S. tax consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of our common stock.

Distributions on our common stock

As described in the “Dividend Policy” section above, we do not intend to pay any cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future. Distributions, if any, on shares of our common stock generally will constitute dividends for U.S. federal income tax purposes to the extent paid from our current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles. If a distribution exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and profits, the excess will be treated as a tax-free return of the non-U.S. holder’s investment, up to such holder’s tax basis in the shares of common stock. Any remaining excess will be treated as capital gain, subject to the tax treatment described below in “Gain on sale or other taxable disposition of our shares of common stock.” Any such distributions will also be subject to the discussion below under the section titled “Withholding and information reporting requirements—FATCA.”

Subject to the discussion in the following two paragraphs in this section, dividends paid to a non-U.S. holder generally will be subject to withholding of U.S. federal income tax at a 30% rate or such lower rate specified by an applicable income tax treaty between the United States and such holder’s country of residence.

Dividends that are treated as effectively connected with a trade or business conducted by a non-U.S. holder within the United States and, if an applicable income tax treaty so provides, that are attributable to a permanent establishment or a fixed base maintained by the non-U.S. holder within the United States, are generally exempt from the 30% withholding tax if the non-U.S. holder satisfies applicable certification and disclosure requirements. However, such U.S. effectively connected income, net of specified deductions and credits, is taxed at the same U.S. federal income tax rates applicable to United States persons (as defined in the Code). Any U.S. effectively connected income received by a non-U.S. holder that is a corporation may also,

 

184


Table of Contents

under certain circumstances, be subject to an additional “branch profits tax” at a 30% rate or such lower rate as specified by an applicable income tax treaty between the United States and such holder’s country of residence.

A non-U.S. holder of shares of our common stock who claims the benefit of an applicable income tax treaty between the United States and such holder’s country of residence generally will be required to provide a properly executed IRS Form W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E (or a successor form) to the applicable withholding agent and satisfy applicable certification and other requirements. Non-U.S. holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding their entitlement to benefits under a relevant income tax treaty. A non-U.S. holder that is eligible for a reduced rate of U.S. withholding tax under an income tax treaty may obtain a refund or credit of any excess amounts withheld by timely providing the appropriate information to the IRS.

Gain on sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of shares of our common stock

A non-U.S. holder generally will not be subject to any U.S. federal income tax on any gain realized upon such holder’s sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of shares of our common stock unless:

 

  1.

the gain is effectively connected with the non-U.S. holder’s conduct of a U.S. trade or business and, if an applicable income tax treaty so provides, is attributable to a permanent establishment or a fixed-base maintained by such non-U.S. holder in the United States, in which case the non-U.S. holder generally will be taxed on a net income basis at the U.S. federal income tax rates applicable to United States persons (as defined in the Code) and, if the non-U.S. holder is a foreign corporation, the branch profits tax described above in “Distributions on our common stock” also may apply;

 

  2.

the non-U.S. holder is a nonresident alien individual who is present in the United States for a period or periods aggregating 183 days or more in the taxable year of the disposition and certain other conditions are met, in which case the non-U.S. holder will be subject to a 30% tax (or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty between the United States and such holder’s country of residence) on the net gain derived from the disposition, which may be offset by certain U.S. source capital losses of the non-U.S. holder, if any (even though the individual is not considered a resident of the United States), provided that the non-U.S. holder has timely filed U.S. federal income tax returns with respect to such losses; or

 

  3.

we are, or have been, at any time during the five-year period preceding such sale or other taxable disposition (or the non-U.S. holder’s holding period, if shorter) a “U.S. real property holding corporation,” unless our common stock is regularly traded on an established securities market, within the meaning of the relevant provisions of the Code, and the non-U.S. holder holds no more than 5% of our outstanding common stock, directly or indirectly, actually or constructively, during the shorter of the five-year period ending on the date of the disposition or the period that the non-U.S. holder held our common stock. Generally, a corporation is a “U.S. real property holding corporation” only if the fair market value of its “U.S. real property interests” (as defined in the Code and applicable U.S. Treasury regulations) equals or exceeds 50% of the sum of the fair market value of its worldwide real property interests plus its other assets used or held for use in a trade or business. Although there can be no assurance, we do not believe that we are, or have been, a “U.S. real property holding corporation” for U.S. federal income tax purposes, or that we are likely to become one in the future. No assurance can be provided that our common stock will be regularly traded on an established securities market for purposes of the rules described above.

Backup withholding and information reporting

We must report annually to the IRS and to each non-U.S. holder the gross amount of the distributions on shares of our common stock paid to such holder and the tax withheld, if any, with respect to such distributions.

 

185


Table of Contents

Non-U.S. holders may have to comply with specific certification procedures to establish that the holder is not a United States person (as defined in the Code) in order to avoid backup withholding at the applicable rate with respect to dividends on shares of our common stock. Generally, a non-U.S. holder will comply with such procedures if it provides a properly executed IRS Form W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E (or other applicable IRS Form W-8), or otherwise meets documentary evidence requirements for establishing that it is a non-U.S. holder, or otherwise establishes an exemption. Dividends paid to non-U.S. holders subject to withholding of U.S. federal income tax, as described above in “Distributions on our common stock,” generally will be exempt from U.S. backup withholding.

Information reporting and backup withholding will generally apply to the proceeds of a disposition of shares of our common stock by a non-U.S. holder effected by or through the U.S. office of any broker, U.S. or non-U.S., unless the holder certifies its status as a non-U.S. holder and satisfies certain other requirements, or otherwise establishes an exemption. Generally, information reporting and backup withholding will not apply to a payment of disposition proceeds to a non-U.S. holder where the transaction is effected outside the United States through a non-U.S. office of a broker. However, for information reporting purposes, dispositions effected through a non-U.S. office of a broker with substantial U.S. ownership or operations generally will be treated in a manner similar to dispositions effected through a U.S. office of a broker. Non-U.S. holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the application of the information reporting and backup withholding rules to them. Copies of information returns may be made available to the tax authorities of the country in which the non-U.S. holder resides or is incorporated under the provisions of a specific treaty or agreement. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules from a payment to a non-U.S. holder can be refunded or credited against the non-U.S. holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability, if any, provided that the appropriate information is provided to the IRS in a timely manner.

Withholding and information reporting requirements—FATCA

The Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act, or FATCA, generally imposes a U.S. federal withholding tax at a rate of 30% on payments of dividends on our common stock paid to a foreign entity unless (i) if the foreign entity is a “foreign financial institution,” such foreign entity undertakes certain due diligence, reporting, withholding, and certification obligations, (ii) if the foreign entity is not a “foreign financial institution,” such foreign entity identifies certain of its U.S. investors, if any, or (iii) the foreign entity is otherwise exempt under FATCA. Such withholding may also apply to payments of gross proceeds of sales or other dispositions of shares of our common stock, although under proposed U.S. Treasury regulations, no withholding will apply to payments of gross proceeds. Taxpayers are generally permitted to rely on these proposed Treasury regulations until final Treasury regulations are issued. Under certain circumstances, a non-U.S. holder may be eligible for refunds or credits of this withholding tax. An intergovernmental agreement between the United States and an applicable foreign country may modify the requirements described in this paragraph. Non-U.S. holders should consult their tax advisors regarding the possible implications of this legislation on their investment in our common stock and the entities through which they hold our shares of common stock, including, without limitation, the process and deadlines for meeting the applicable requirements to prevent the imposition of the 30% withholding tax under FATCA.

 

186


Table of Contents

UNDERWRITING

BofA Securities, Inc., Jefferies LLC and Cowen and Company, LLC are acting as representatives of each of the underwriters named below. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in an underwriting agreement among us and the underwriters, we have agreed to sell to the underwriters, and each of the underwriters has agreed, severally and not jointly, to purchase from us, the number of shares of common stock set forth opposite its name below.

 

Underwriter

  

Number of
Shares

 

BofA Securities, Inc.

                       

Jefferies LLC

  

Cowen and Company, LLC

  
  

 

 

 

Total

  
  

 

 

 

Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the underwriting agreement, the underwriters have agreed, severally and not jointly, to purchase all of the shares sold under the underwriting agreement if any of these shares are purchased. If an underwriter defaults, the underwriting agreement provides that the purchase commitments of the nondefaulting underwriters may be increased or the underwriting agreement may be terminated.

We have agreed to indemnify the underwriters against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribute to payments the underwriters may be required to make in respect of those liabilities.

The underwriters are offering the shares, subject to prior sale, when, as and if issued to and accepted by them, subject to approval of legal matters by their counsel, including the validity of the shares, and other conditions contained in the underwriting agreement, such as the receipt by the underwriters of officer’s certificates and legal opinions. The underwriters reserve the right to withdraw, cancel or modify offers to the public and to reject orders in whole or in part.

Commissions and Discounts

The representatives have advised us that the underwriters propose initially to offer the shares to the public at the public offering price set forth on the cover page of this prospectus and to dealers at that price less a concession not in excess of $             per share. After the initial offering, the public offering price, concession or any other term of the offering may be changed.

The following table shows the public offering price, underwriting discount and proceeds before expenses to us. The information assumes either no exercise or full exercise by the underwriters of their option to purchase additional shares.

 

    

Per Share

    

Without Option

    

With Option

 

Public offering price

   $        $        $    

Underwriting discount

   $        $        $    

Proceeds, before expenses, to us

   $        $        $    

The expenses of the offering, not including the underwriting discount, are estimated at $             and are payable by us. We have also agreed to reimburse the underwriters for certain of their expenses incurred in connection with, among others, the review and clearance by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. in an amount of up to $             .

 

187


Table of Contents

Option to Purchase Additional Shares

We have granted an option to the underwriters, exercisable for 30 days after the date of this prospectus, to purchase up to              additional shares at the public offering price, less the underwriting discount. If the underwriters exercise this option, each will be obligated, subject to conditions contained in the underwriting agreement, to purchase a number of additional shares proportionate to that underwriter’s initial amount reflected in the above table.

Reserved Shares

At our request, the underwriters have reserved for sale, at the initial public offering price, up to         % of the shares offered by this prospectus for sale to certain of our directors, officers, and certain other parties related to us. The underwriters will receive the same underwriting discount on any shares purchased pursuant to the directed share program as they will on any other shares sold to the public in this offering. If these persons purchase reserved shares, this will reduce the number of shares available for sale to the general public. Any reserved shares that are not so purchased will be offered by the underwriters to the general public on the same terms as the other shares offered by this prospectus. Shares purchased through the directed share program will not be subject to lockup restrictions with the underwriters, except in the case of shares purchased by any of our directors or executive officers. We have agreed to indemnify the underwriters against certain liabilities and expenses, including liabilities under the Securities Act, in connection with the sales of the directed shares. Other than the underwriting discount described on the front cover of this prospectus, the underwriters will not be entitled to any commission with respect to the shares of common stock sold pursuant to the directed share program.

No Sales of Similar Securities

We, our executive officers and directors and our other existing security holders have agreed not to sell or transfer any common stock or securities convertible into, exchangeable for, exercisable for, or repayable with common stock, for 180 days after the date of this prospectus without first obtaining the written consent of BofA Securities, Inc., Jefferies LLC and Cowen and Company, LLC. Specifically, we and these other persons have agreed, with certain limited exceptions, not to directly or indirectly

 

   

offer, pledge, sell or contract to sell any common stock,

 

   

sell any option or contract to purchase any common stock,

 

   

purchase any option or contract to sell any common stock,

 

   

grant any option, right or warrant for the sale of any common stock,

 

   

lend or otherwise dispose of or transfer any common stock,

 

   

request or demand that we file or make a confidential submission of a registration statement related to the common stock, or

 

   

enter into any swap or other agreement that transfers, in whole or in part, the economic consequence of ownership of any common stock whether any such swap or transaction is to be settled by delivery of shares or other securities, in cash or otherwise.

This lock-up provision applies to common stock and to securities convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for or repayable with common stock. It also applies to common stock owned now or acquired later by the person executing the agreement or for which the person executing the agreement later acquires the power of disposition.

 

188


Table of Contents

Nasdaq Global Market Listing

We expect the shares to be approved for listing on the Nasdaq Global Market, subject to notice of issuance, under the symbol “TYRA.”

Before this offering, there has been no public market for our common stock. The initial public offering price will be determined through negotiations between us and the representatives. In addition to prevailing market conditions, the factors to be considered in determining the initial public offering price are

 

   

the valuation multiples of publicly traded companies that the representatives believe to be comparable to us,

 

   

our financial information,

 

   

the history of, and the prospects for, our company and the industry in which we compete,

 

   

an assessment of our management, its past and present operations, and the prospects for, and timing of, our future revenues,

 

   

the present state of our development, and

 

   

the above factors in relation to market values and various valuation measures of other companies engaged in activities similar to ours.

An active trading market for the shares may not develop. It is also possible that after the offering the shares will not trade in the public market at or above the initial public offering price.

The underwriters do not expect to sell more than 5% of the shares in the aggregate to accounts over which they exercise discretionary authority.

Price Stabilization, Short Positions and Penalty Bids

Until the distribution of the shares is completed, SEC rules may limit underwriters and selling group members from bidding for and purchasing our common stock. However, the representatives may engage in transactions that stabilize the price of the common stock, such as bids or purchases to peg, fix or maintain that price.

In connection with the offering, the underwriters may purchase and sell our common stock in the open market. These transactions may include short sales, purchases on the open market to cover positions created by short sales and stabilizing transactions. Short sales involve the sale by the underwriters of a greater number of shares than they are required to purchase in the offering. “Covered” short sales are sales made in an amount not greater than the underwriters’ option to purchase additional shares described above. The underwriters may close out any covered short position by either exercising their option to purchase additional shares or purchasing shares in the open market. In determining the source of shares to close out the covered short position, the underwriters will consider, among other things, the price of shares available for purchase in the open market as compared to the price at which they may purchase shares through the option granted to them. “Naked” short sales are sales in excess of such option. The underwriters must close out any naked short position by purchasing shares in the open market. A naked short position is more likely to be created if the underwriters are concerned that there may be downward pressure on the price of our common stock in the open market after pricing that could adversely affect investors who purchase in the offering. Stabilizing transactions consist of various bids for or purchases of shares of common stock made by the underwriters in the open market prior to the completion of the offering.

 

189


Table of Contents

The underwriters may also impose a penalty bid. This occurs when a particular underwriter repays to the underwriters a portion of the underwriting discount received by it because the representatives have repurchased shares sold by or for the account of such underwriter in stabilizing or short covering transactions.

Similar to other purchase transactions, the underwriters’ purchases to cover the syndicate short sales may have the effect of raising or maintaining the market price of our common stock or preventing or retarding a decline in the market price of our common stock. As a result, the price of our common stock may be higher than the price that might otherwise exist in the open market. The underwriters may conduct these transactions on the Nasdaq Global Market, in the over-the-counter market or otherwise.

Neither we nor any of the underwriters make any representation or prediction as to the direction or magnitude of any effect that the transactions described above may have on the price of our common stock. In addition, neither we nor any of the underwriters make any representation that the representatives will engage in these transactions or that these transactions, once commenced, will not be discontinued without notice.

Electronic Distribution

In connection with the offering, certain of the underwriters or securities dealers may distribute prospectuses by electronic means, such as e-mail.

Other Relationships

Some of the underwriters and their affiliates have engaged in, and may in the future engage in, investment banking and other commercial dealings in the ordinary course of business with us or our affiliates. They have received, or may in the future receive, customary fees and commissions for these transactions.

In addition, in the ordinary course of their business activities, the underwriters and their affiliates may make or hold a broad array of investments and actively trade debt and equity securities (or related derivative securities) and financial instruments (including bank loans) for their own account and for the accounts of their customers. Such investments and securities activities may involve securities and/or instruments of ours or our affiliates. The underwriters and their affiliates may also make investment recommendations and/or publish or express independent research views in respect of such securities or financial instruments and may hold, or recommend to clients that they acquire, long and/or short positions in such securities and instruments.

Notice to Prospective Investors in the European Economic Area

This prospectus is not a prospectus for the purposes of the Prospectus Regulation (as defined below). This prospectus and any offer if made subsequently is directed only at persons in Member States of the European Economic Area, or the EEA, who are “qualified investors” within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation. This prospectus has been prepared on the basis that any offer of shares in any Member State of the EEA will be made pursuant to an exemption under the Prospectus Regulation from the requirement to publish a prospectus for offers of shares. Accordingly any person making or intending to make an offer in that Member State of shares which are the subject of the offering contemplated in this prospectus may only do so in circumstances in which no obligation arises for us or any of the underwriters to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Regulation in relation to such offer. Neither we nor the underwriters have authorized, nor do we or they authorize, the making of any offer of shares in circumstances in which an obligation arises for us or the underwriters to publish a prospectus for such offer. The expression “Prospectus Regulation” means Regulation (EU) 2017/1129.

In relation to each Member State of the EEA (each a “Relevant State”), no shares have been offered or will be offered pursuant to the offering to the public in that Relevant State prior to the publication of a prospectus in relation to the shares which has been approved by the competent authority in that Relevant State or, where appropriate, approved in another Relevant State and notified to the competent authority in that Relevant State, all

 

190


Table of Contents

in accordance with the Prospectus Regulation, except that offers of shares may be made to the public in that Relevant State at any time under the following exemptions under the Prospectus Regulation:

 

   

to any legal entity which is a qualified investor as defined under Article 2 of the Prospectus Regulation;

 

   

to fewer than 150 natural or legal persons (other than qualified investors as defined under Article 2 of the Prospectus Regulation), subject to obtaining the prior consent of the representatives for any such offer; or

 

   

in any other circumstances falling within Article 1(4) of the Prospectus Regulation,

provided that no such offer of shares shall require us or any underwriter to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Regulation.

Each person in a Relevant State who initially acquires any shares or to whom any offer is made will be deemed to have represented, acknowledged and agreed to and with us and the underwriters that it is a qualified investor within the meaning of the Prospectus Regulation.

In the case of any shares being offered to a financial intermediary as that term is used in Article 5(1) of the Prospectus Regulation, each such financial intermediary will be deemed to have represented, acknowledged and agreed that the shares acquired by it in the offer have not been acquired on a non-discretionary basis on behalf of, nor have they been acquired with a view to their offer or resale to, persons in circumstances which may give rise to an offer to the public other than their offer or resale in a Relevant State to qualified investors, in circumstances in which the prior consent of the underwriters has been obtained to each such proposed offer or resale.

We, the underwriters and their affiliates will rely upon the truth and accuracy of the foregoing representations, acknowledgements and agreements.

For the purposes of this provision, the expression an “offer to the public” in relation to any shares in any Relevant State means the communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and any shares to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe for any shares.

Notice to Prospective Investors in the United Kingdom

This prospectus may not be distributed or circulated to any person in the United Kingdom, or UK, other than to (i) persons who have professional experience in matters relating to investments falling within Article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the “Order”); and (ii) high net worth entities falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as “relevant persons”). This prospectus is directed only at relevant persons. Other persons should not act on this prospectus or any of its contents. This prospectus is confidential and is being supplied to you solely for your information and may not be reproduced, redistributed or passed on to any other person or published, in whole or in part, for any other purpose.

In the UK, this prospectus is not a prospectus for the purposes of the UK Prospectus Regulation (as defined below). This prospectus has been prepared on the basis that any offer if made subsequently is directed only at persons in the UK who are “qualified investors” within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the UK Prospectus Regulation. This prospectus has been prepared on the basis that any offer of shares in the UK will be made pursuant to an exemption under the UK Prospectus Regulation from the requirement to publish a prospectus for offers of shares. Accordingly any person making or intending to make an offer in the UK of shares which are the subject of the offering contemplated in this prospectus may only do so in circumstances in which no obligation arises for us or any of the underwriters to publish a prospectus pursuant to Section 85 of the UK’s Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, as amended (the “FSMA”) in relation to such offer. Neither we nor the underwriters have authorized, nor do we or they authorize, the making of any offer of shares in circumstances in which an obligation arises for us or the underwriters to publish a prospectus for such offer. The expression “UK Prospectus Regulation” means Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 as it forms part of domestic law of the UK by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, as amended by the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Act 2020.

 

191


Table of Contents

Any invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of Section 21 of the FSMA) in connection with the issue or sale of the shares may only be communicated or caused to be communicated in circumstances in which Section 21(1) of the FSMA does not apply to us.

All applicable provisions of the FSMA must be complied with in respect to anything done by any person in relation to the shares in, from or otherwise involving the UK.

In relation to the UK, no shares have been offered or will be offered pursuant to the offering to the public in the UK prior to the publication of a prospectus in relation to the shares which has been approved by the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK in accordance with the UK Prospectus Regulation and the FSMA, except that offers of shares may be made to the public in the UK at any time under the following exemptions under the UK Prospectus Regulation and the FSMA:

 

   

to any legal entity which is a qualified investor as defined under Article 2 of the UK Prospectus Regulation;

 

   

to fewer than 150 natural or legal persons (other than qualified investors as defined under Article 2 of the UK Prospectus Regulation), subject to obtaining the prior consent of the representatives for any such offer; or

 

   

in any other circumstances falling within section 86 of the FSMA,

provided that no such offer of shares shall require us or any underwriter to publish a prospectus pursuant to Section 85 of the FSMA.

Each person in the UK who initially acquires any shares or to whom any offer is made will be deemed to have represented, acknowledged and agreed to and with us and the underwriters that it is a qualified investor within the meaning of the UK Prospectus Regulation.

In the case of any shares being offered to a financial intermediary as that term is used in Article 5(1) of the UK Prospectus Regulation, each such financial intermediary will be deemed to have represented, acknowledged and agreed that the shares acquired by it in the offer have not been acquired on a non-discretionary basis on behalf of, nor have they been acquired with a view to their offer or resale to, persons in circumstances which may give rise to an offer to the public other than their offer or resale in the UK to qualified investors or in circumstances in which the prior consent of the underwriters has been obtained to each such proposed offer or resale.

We, the underwriters and their affiliates will rely upon the truth and accuracy of the foregoing representations, acknowledgements and agreements.

For the purposes of this provision, the expression an “offer to the public” in relation to any shares in the UK means the communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and any shares to be offered so as to enable an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe for any shares.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Switzerland

The shares may not be publicly offered in Switzerland and will not be listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange, or SIX, or on any other stock exchange or regulated trading facility in Switzerland. This document has been prepared without regard to the disclosure standards for issuance prospectuses under art. 652a or art. 1156 of the Swiss Code of Obligations or the disclosure standards for listing prospectuses under art. 27 ff. of the SIX Listing Rules or the listing rules of any other stock exchange or regulated trading facility in Switzerland. Neither this document nor any other offering or marketing material relating to the shares or the offering may be publicly distributed or otherwise made publicly available in Switzerland.

 

192


Table of Contents

Neither this document nor any other offering or marketing material relating to the offering, us or the shares have been or will be filed with or approved by any Swiss regulatory authority. In particular, this document will not be filed with, and the offer of shares will not be supervised by, the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA, or FINMA, and the offer of shares has not been and will not be authorized under the Swiss Federal Act on Collective Investment Schemes, or CISA. The investor protection afforded to acquirers of interests in collective investment schemes under the CISA does not extend to acquirers of shares.

Notice to Prospective Investors in the Dubai International Financial Centre

This prospectus relates to an Exempt Offer in accordance with the Offered Securities Rules of the Dubai Financial Services Authority, or DFSA. This prospectus is intended for distribution only to persons of a type specified in the Offered Securities Rules of the DFSA. It must not be delivered to, or relied on by, any other person. The DFSA has no responsibility for reviewing or verifying any documents in connection with Exempt Offers. The DFSA has not approved this prospectus nor taken steps to verify the information set forth herein and has no responsibility for the prospectus. The shares to which this prospectus relates may be illiquid and/or subject to restrictions on their resale. Prospective purchasers of the shares offered should conduct their own due diligence on the shares. If you do not understand the contents of this prospectus you should consult an authorized financial advisor.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Australia

No placement document, prospectus, product disclosure statement or other disclosure document has been lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, or ASIC, in relation to the offering. This prospectus does not constitute a prospectus, product disclosure statement or other disclosure document under the Corporations Act 2001, or Corporations Act, and does not purport to include the information required for a prospectus, product disclosure statement or other disclosure document under the Corporations Act.

Any offer in Australia of the shares may only be made to persons (Exempt Investors) who are “sophisticated investors” (within the meaning of section 708(8) of the Corporations Act), “professional investors” (within the meaning of section 708(11) of the Corporations Act) or otherwise pursuant to one or more exemptions contained in section 708 of the Corporations Act so that it is lawful to offer the shares without disclosure to investors under Chapter 6D of the Corporations Act.

The shares applied for by Exempt Investors in Australia must not be offered for sale in Australia in the period of 12 months after the date of allotment under the offering, except in circumstances where disclosure to investors under Chapter 6D of the Corporations Act would not be required pursuant to an exemption under section 708 of the Corporations Act or otherwise or where the offer is pursuant to a disclosure document which complies with Chapter 6D of the Corporations Act. Any person acquiring shares must observe such Australian on-sale restrictions.

This prospectus contains general information only and does not take account of the investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs of any particular person. It does not contain any securities recommendations or financial product advice. Before making an investment decision, investors need to consider whether the information in this prospectus is appropriate to their needs, objectives and circumstances, and, if necessary, seek expert advice on those matters.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Hong Kong

The shares have not been offered or sold and will not be offered or sold in Hong Kong, by means of any document, other than (a) to “professional investors” as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571) of Hong Kong and any rules made under that Ordinance; or (b) in other circumstances which do not result in the document being a “prospectus” as defined in the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 32) of Hong Kong or which do not constitute an offer to the public within the meaning of that Ordinance. No advertisement, invitation or document relating to the shares has been or may be issued or has been or may be in the possession of any person for the purposes of issue, whether in Hong Kong or elsewhere, which is directed at, or the contents of which are likely to be accessed or read by, the public of Hong Kong (except if permitted to do so under the securities laws of Hong Kong) other than with respect to shares which are or are intended to be disposed of only to persons outside Hong Kong or only to “professional investors” as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance and any rules made under that Ordinance.

 

193


Table of Contents

Notice to Prospective Investors in Japan

The shares have not been and will not be registered under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law of Japan (Law No. 25 of 1948, as amended) and, accordingly, will not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, in Japan, or to or for the account or benefit of any Japanese Person or to others for re-offering or resale, directly or indirectly, in Japan or to or for the account or benefit of, any Japanese Person, except pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law of Japan and otherwise in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and ministerial guidelines promulgated by relevant Japanese governmental or regulatory authorities in effect at the relevant time. For the purposes of this paragraph, “Japanese Person” shall mean any person resident in Japan, including any corporation or other entity organized under the laws of Japan.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Singapore

This prospectus has not been and will not be registered as a prospectus under the Securities and Futures Act, Chapter 289 of Singapore (the “SFA”) by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, and the offer of the shares in Singapore is made primarily pursuant to the exemptions under Section 274 and 275 of the SFA. Accordingly, this prospectus and any other document or material in connection with the offer or sale, or invitation for subscription or purchase, of the shares may not be circulated or distributed, nor may the shares be offered or sold, or be made the subject of an invitation for subscription or purchase, whether directly or indirectly, to any person in Singapore other than (i) to an institutional investor as defined in Section 4A of the SFA (an “Institutional Investor”) pursuant to Section 274 of the SFA, (ii) to an accredited investor as defined in Section 4A of the SFA (an “Accredited Investor”) or other relevant person as defined in Section 275(2) of the SFA (a “Relevant Person”) and pursuant to Section 275(1) of the SFA, or to any person pursuant to an offer referred to in Section 275(1A) of the SFA, and in accordance with the conditions specified in Section 275 of the SFA and (where applicable) Regulation 3 of the Securities and Futures (Classes of Investors) Regulations 2018, or (iii) otherwise pursuant to, and in accordance with, the conditions of any other applicable exemption or provision of the SFA.

It is a condition of the offer that where the shares are subscribed for or acquired pursuant to an offer made in reliance on Section 275 of the SFA by a Relevant Person which is:

 

  (a)

a corporation (which is not an Accredited Investor), the sole business of which is to hold investments and the entire share capital of which is owned by one or more individuals, each of whom is an Accredited Investor; or

 

  (b)

a trust (where the trustee is not an Accredited Investor), the sole purpose of which is to hold investments and each beneficiary of the trust is an individual who is an Accredited Investor,

securities or securities-based derivatives contracts (each as defined in Section 2(1) of the SFA) of that corporation and the beneficiaries’ rights and interest (howsoever described) in that trust shall not be transferred within six months after that corporation or that trust has subscribed for or acquired the shares except:

 

  1.

to an Institutional Investor, an Accredited Investor, a Relevant Person, or which arises from an offer referred to in Section 275(1A) of the SFA (in the case of that corporation) or Section 276(4)(i)(B) of the SFA (in the case of that trust);

 

  2.

where no consideration is or will be given for the transfer;

 

  3.

where the transfer is by operation of law;

 

  4.

as specified in Section 276(7) of the SFA; or

 

  5.

as specified in Regulation 37A of the Securities and Futures (Offers of Investments) (Securities and Securities-based Derivatives Contracts) Regulations 2018.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Canada

The shares may be sold only to purchasers purchasing, or deemed to be purchasing, as principal that are accredited investors, as defined in National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions or subsection 73.3(1) of the

 

194


Table of Contents

Securities Act (Ontario), and are permitted clients, as defined in National Instrument 31-103 Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations. Any resale of the shares must be made in accordance with an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the prospectus requirements of applicable securities laws.

Securities legislation in certain provinces or territories of Canada may provide a purchaser with remedies for rescission or damages if this prospectus (including any amendment thereto) contains a misrepresentation, provided that the remedies for rescission or damages are exercised by the purchaser within the time limit prescribed by the securities legislation of the purchaser’s province or territory. The purchaser should refer to any applicable provisions of the securities legislation of the purchaser’s province or territory for particulars of these rights or consult with a legal advisor.

Pursuant to section 3A.3 (or, in the case of securities issued or guaranteed by the government of a non-Canadian jurisdiction, section 3A.4) of National Instrument 33-105 Underwriting Conflicts (NI 33-105), the underwriters are not required to comply with the disclosure requirements of NI 33-105 regarding underwriter conflicts of interest in connection with this offering.

 

195


Table of Contents

LEGAL MATTERS

The validity of the shares of common stock offered by this prospectus will be passed upon for us by Latham & Watkins LLP, San Diego, California. Certain legal matters related to this offering will be passed upon for the underwriters by Sidley Austin LLP, San Francisco, California.

EXPERTS

Ernst & Young LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, has audited our financial statements as of December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2020, and for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2020, as set forth in their report. We’ve included our financial statements in the prospectus and elsewhere in the registration statement in reliance on Ernst  & Young LLP’s report, given on their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

We have filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-1 under the Securities Act with respect to the shares of common stock offered hereby. This prospectus, which constitutes a part of the registration statement, does not contain all of the information set forth in the registration statement or the exhibits and schedules filed therewith. For further information about us and the common stock offered hereby, we refer you to the registration statement and the exhibits and schedules filed thereto. Statements contained in this prospectus regarding the contents of any contract or any other document that is filed as an exhibit to the registration statement are not necessarily complete, and each such statement is qualified in all respects by reference to the full text of such contract or other document filed as an exhibit to the registration statement. Upon completion of this offering, we will be required to file periodic reports, proxy statements, and other information with the SEC pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The SEC maintains an Internet website that contains reports, proxy statements and other information about registrants, like us, that file electronically with the SEC. The address of that site is www.sec.gov.

We also maintain a website at www.tyra.bio. Upon the completion of this offering, you may access our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act with the SEC free of charge at our website as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. The reference to our website address does not constitute incorporation by reference of the information contained on our website, and you should not consider the contents of our website in making an investment decision with respect to our common stock. We have included our website address as an inactive textual reference only.

 

196


Table of Contents

Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

Index to Financial Statements

 

    

Page

 

Audited Financial Statements as of and for the Years Ended December 31, 2019 and 2020:

  

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

     F-2  

Balance Sheets

     F-3  

Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss

     F-4  

Statements of Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

     F-5  

Statements of Cash Flows

     F-6  

Notes to Financial Statements

     F-7  

Financial Statements as of December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021 and for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2020 and 2021:

  

Balance Sheets

     F-26  

Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss

     F-27  

Statements of Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

     F-28  

Statements of Cash Flows

     F-29  

Notes to Financial Statements

     F-30  

 

F-1


Table of Contents

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Stockholders and the Board of Directors

of Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Tyra Biosciences, Inc. (the Company) as of December 31, 2019 and 2020, the related statements of operations and comprehensive loss, convertible preferred stock and stockholders’ deficit and cash flows for the years then ended, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2019 and 2020, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2021.

San Diego, California

May 28, 2021

 

F-2


Table of Contents

Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

Balance Sheets

(in thousands, except share and par value data)

 

    

December 31,

 
    

2019

   

2020

 

Assets

    

Current assets:

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 108     $ 15,224  

Prepaid and other current assets

     19       57  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current assets

     127       15,281  

Restricted cash

     —         243  

Property and equipment, net

     20       297  

Right-of-use asset

     256       169  

Deferred offering costs

     107       —    

Other long-term assets

     18       21  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

   $ 528     $ 16,011  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities, Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

    

Current liabilities:

    

Accounts payable

   $ 327     $ 664  

Lease liabilities, current

     139       142  

Simple agreement for future equity

     4,325       —    

Accrued and other current liabilities

     364       1,052  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current liabilities

     5,155       1,858  

Lease liabilities, noncurrent

     114       —    

Other long-term liabilities

     —         140  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     5,269       1,998  

Commitments and contingencies (Note 2)

    

Convertible preferred stock:

    

Series A convertible preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; 2,000,000 and 6,223,046 shares authorized at December 31, 2019 and 2020, respectively; 0 and 3,374,560 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2019 and 2020, respectively; $27,840 aggregate liquidation preference at December 31, 2020

     —         27,651  

Stockholders’ deficit:

    

Common stock, $0.0001 par value; 8,000,000 and 10,000,000 shares authorized at December 31, 2019 and 2020, respectively; 1,085,918 and 1,174,554 shares issued at December 31, 2019 and 2020, respectively and 1,041,727 and 704,312 shares outstanding at December 31, 2019 and 2020, respectively

     —         —    

Additional paid-in capital

     —         439  

Accumulated deficit

     (4,741     (14,077
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ deficit

     (4,741     (13,638
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities, convertible preferred stock and stockholders’ deficit

   $ 528     $ 16,011  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

F-3


Table of Contents

Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

    

Year Ended December 31,

 
    

2019

   

2020

 

Operating expenses:

    

Research and development

   $ 1,790     $ 7,203  

General and administrative

     1,332       2,094  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

     3,122       9,297  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss from operations

     (3,122     (9,297

Other expense:

    

Interest expense

     (1     (1

Change in fair value of simple agreement for future equity

     (934     (15

Other expenses

     (8     (23
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other expense

     (943     (39
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss and comprehensive loss

   $ (4,065   $ (9,336
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss per share, basic and diluted

   $ (3.98   $ (15.72
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Weighted-average shares used to compute net loss per share, basic and diluted

     1,020,394       593,744  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

F-4


Table of Contents

Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

Statements of Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

(in thousands, except share data)

 

   

Series A
Convertible
Preferred Stock

   

Common Stock

   

Additional

Paid-In
Capital

   

Accumulated

Deficit

   

Total
Stockholders’

Deficit

 
   

Shares

   

Amount

   

Shares

   

Amount

 

Balance at December 31, 2018

    —       $ —         1,001,812     $ —       $ —       $ (676   $ (676

Vesting of shares of common stock subject to repurchase

    —         —         39,915       —         —         —         —    

Net loss

    —         —         —         —         —         (4,065     (4,065
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2019

    —         —         1,041,727       —         —         (4,741     (4,741

Issuance of Series A convertible preferred stock upon conversion of simple agreement for future equity

    526,074       4,340       —         —         —         —         —    

Issuance of Series A convertible preferred stock, net of issuance costs

    2,848,486       23,311       —         —         —         —         —    

Incremental vesting conditions placed on previously issued common shares

    —         —         (562,800     —         —         —         —    

Vesting of shares of common stock subject to repurchase

    —         —         225,385       —         —         —         —    

Stock-based compensation

    —         —         —         —         439       —         439  

Net loss

    —         —         —         —         —         (9,336     (9,336
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2020

    3,374,560     $ 27,651       704,312     $ —       $ 439     $ (14,077   $ (13,638
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

F-5


Table of Contents

Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

Statements of Cash Flows

(in thousands)

 

    

Year Ended
December 31,

 
    

2019

   

2020

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

    

Net loss

   $ (4,065   $ (9,336

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operations:

    

Depreciation and amortization

     8       47  

Stock-based compensation

     —         439  

Change in fair value of SAFE commitments

     934       15  

Loss on disposal of property and equipment

     —         2  

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

    

Prepaid expenses and other assets

     43       65  

Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities

     461       1,019  

Operating right-of-use assets and lease liabilities, net

     1       (14
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in operating activities

     (2,618     (7,763
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

    

Purchases of property and equipment

     (20     (312
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

     (20     (312
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

    

Proceeds from issuance of simple agreement for future equity

     165       —    

Proceeds from the issuance of Series A convertible preferred stock, net of issuance costs

     —         23,311  

Proceeds from early exercise of stock options

     —         140  

Payments for financing lease

     (8     (17
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash provided by financing activities

     157       23,434  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash increase (decrease) for the period

     (2,481     15,359  

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of the year

     2,589       108  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of the year

   $ 108     $ 15,467  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash to the balance sheet

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 108     $ 15,224  

Restricted cash

     —         243  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

   $ 108     $ 15,467  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosures:

    

Interest paid

   $ 1     $ 1  

Lease assets obtained in exchange for finance lease liabilities

     34       —    

Lease assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities

     301       101  

Non-cash investing and financing activities:

    

Purchases of equipment included in accounts payable

     —         4  

Deferred issuance costs included in accounts payable and accrued expenses

     107       —    

Issuance of convertible preferred stock in exchange for simple agreement for future equity

     —         4,340  

See accompanying notes to financial statements.

 

F-6


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements

1. Organization and Basis of Presentation

Organization

Tyra Biosciences, Inc. (the “Company”) was incorporated in the state of Delaware on August 2, 2018. The Company is a precision oncology company designing and developing purpose-built therapies specifically designed to overcome therapy resistance and improve the lives of cancer patients whose tumors have acquired resistance over the course of therapy to currently available treatments.

The Company has devoted substantially all of its efforts to research and development and has not generated revenues from its principal operations.

Liquidity

From inception to December 31, 2020, the Company has devoted substantially all of its resources to organizing and staffing the company, business planning, raising capital, developing its proprietary SNÅP discovery engine, undertaking research and development activities for its development programs, establishing its intellectual property portfolio, and providing general and administrative support for its operations. The Company has a limited operating history, has never generated any revenue, and the sales and income potential of its business is unproven. The Company has incurred net losses and negative cash flows from operating activities since its inception and expects to continue to incur net losses into the foreseeable future as it continues to develop its current and future product candidates. From inception to December 31, 2020, the Company has funded its operations primarily through the issuance of simple agreements for future equity and its Series A convertible preferred stock financing.

As the Company continues to pursue its business plan, it expects to finance its operations through a combination of equity offerings, debt financings or other capital sources, including potential collaborations, licenses and other similar arrangements. However, there can be no assurance that any additional financing or strategic transactions will be available to the Company on acceptable terms, if at all. If events or circumstances occur such that the Company does not obtain additional funding, it may need to delay, reduce or eliminate its product development or future commercialization efforts, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations or financial condition. The accompanying financial statements do not include any adjustments that might be necessary if it were unable to continue as a going concern.

In February 2021, the Company received $23.5 million in gross proceeds from the sale of the second closing of Series A convertible preferred stock. Additionally, in March 2021, the Company received $106.3 million in gross proceeds from the sale of Series B convertible preferred stock. As a result of the financings, management believes the Company has sufficient capital to execute its strategic plan and fund operations through at least the next twelve months from the date these financial statements were available to be issued.

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). Any reference in these notes to applicable guidance is meant to refer to GAAP as found in the Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) and Accounting Standards Updates (“ASU”) promulgated by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”).

 

F-7


Table of Contents

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of expenses during the reporting period. Accounting estimates and management judgments reflected in the financial statements include: normal recurring accruals, including the accrual of research and development expenses; fair value of simple agreements for future equity (“SAFE”), common stock, convertible preferred stock and stock-based compensation. Although these estimates are based on the Company’s knowledge of current events and actions it may undertake in the future, actual results may materially differ from these estimates and assumptions.

Concentration of Credit Risk

Financial instruments which potentially subject the Company to significant concentration of credit risk consist of cash and cash equivalents. The Company maintains deposits in federally insured financial institutions in excess of federally insured limits. The Company has not experienced any losses in such accounts, and management believes that the Company is not exposed to significant credit risk due to the financial position of the depository institutions in which those deposits are held.

Segment Reporting

The Company operates and manages its business as one operating segment. The Company’s Chief Executive Officer, who is the chief operating decision maker, reviews financial information on an aggregate basis for allocating resources and evaluating financial performance. All long-lived assets are maintained in the United States.

Fair Value Option

The Company has issued and entered into SAFEs with investors which grants investors with the rights to future equity upon the occurrence of an equity financing event. As permitted under ASC 825, Financial Instruments (“ASC 825”), the Company has elected the fair value option to account for the SAFEs. The Company concluded that the terms of the SAFEs were at arms-length, and the cash received by the Company at issuance of the SAFEs represents fair value. The SAFEs are recorded as a liability on the balance sheet as they give investors the option to redeem the instrument for cash upon a change in control. The Company records subsequent changes in fair value of the SAFEs in the Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss. Debt issuance costs related to the SAFEs are expensed in the period incurred. Refer to Note 6 for further information on the SAFEs.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The accounting guidance defines fair value, establishes a consistent framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosure for each major asset and liability category measured at fair value on either a recurring or nonrecurring basis. Fair value is defined as an exit price representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. As such, fair value is a market-based measurement that should be determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability.

The carrying amounts of all cash and cash equivalents, prepaid and other current assets, accounts payable, and accrued and other current liabilities are considered to be representative of their respective fair values because of the short-term nature of those instruments.

 

F-8


Table of Contents

Cash and Cash Equivalents

The Company considers all highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents primarily represent funds invested in readily available money market accounts. As of December 31, 2020, the Company had cash and cash equivalents balances deposited at major financial institutions.

Restricted Cash

Restricted cash is comprised of cash that is restricted as to withdrawal or use under the terms of certain contractual agreements. Restricted cash for years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020 was $0 and $0.2 million, respectively, and consists of collateral for letters of credit related to the Company’s operating leases and are considered a non-current asset on the balance sheets.

Property and Equipment

Property and equipment is stated at cost and depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets (generally three to seven years, or the remaining term of the lease).

Deferred Offering Costs

The Company capitalizes costs that are directly associated with in-process equity financings until such financings are consummated, at which time such costs are recorded against the gross proceeds of the offering. Should an in-process equity financing be abandoned, the deferred offering costs will be expensed immediately as a charge to operating expenses in the Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

The Company accounts for the impairment of long-lived assets by reviewing these assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. If circumstances require a long-lived asset or asset group to be tested for possible impairment, the Company first compares undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by that asset or asset group to its carrying value. If the carrying value of the long-lived asset or asset group is not recoverable on an undiscounted-cash-flow basis, an impairment is recognized to the extent that the carrying value exceeds its fair value. The Company did not recognize impairment losses for the years December 31, 2019 and 2020.

Accrued Research and Development Expense

The Company is required to estimate its expenses resulting from its obligations under contracts with vendors and consultants, in connection with conducting research and development activities. The financial terms of these contracts are subject to negotiations, which vary from contract to contract and may result in payment flows that do not match the periods over which materials or services are provided under such contracts. The Company reflects research and development expenses in its financial statements by matching those expenses with the period in which services and efforts are expended. The Company accounts for these expenses according to the progress of the preclinical study, as measured by the timing of various aspects of the study or related activities. The Company determines accrual estimates through review of the underlying contracts along with preparation of financial models taking into account discussions with research and other key personnel as to the progress of studies, or other services being conducted. To date, the Company has had no material differences between its estimates of such expenses and the amounts actually incurred. During the course of a study, the Company adjusts its rate of expense recognition if actual results differ from its estimate. Nonrefundable advance payments for goods and services, including fees for process development , are deferred and recognized as expense in the period that the related goods are consumed, or services are performed.

 

F-9


Table of Contents

Research and Development

Research and development expenses consist primarily of external and internal costs related to the development of the Company’s SNÅP discovery engine and its product candidates and development programs, including employee related salaries, benefits and stock-based compensation charges for those individuals involved in research and development efforts, costs to third-party contractors to perform research and development activities, and associated overhead expenses. Research and development costs are expensed as incurred.

Patent Costs

The Company expenses all costs as incurred in connection with patent applications (including direct application fees, and the legal and consulting expenses related to making such applications) and such costs are included in general and administrative expenses in the Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss.

Leases

The Company has operating and finance leases for office and lab space and equipment. At the inception of a contractual arrangement, the Company determines whether the contract contains a lease by assessing whether there is an identified asset and whether the contract conveys the right to control the use of the identified asset in exchange for consideration over a period of time. If both criteria are met, the Company records the associated lease liability and corresponding right-of-use asset (“ROU”) upon commencement of the lease using the implicit rate or a discount rate based on a credit-adjusted secured borrowing rate commensurate with the term of the lease. The Company additionally evaluates leases at their inception to determine if they are to be accounted for as an operating lease or a finance lease. A lease is accounted for as a finance lease if it meets one of the following five criteria: the lease has a purchase option that is reasonably certain of being exercised, the present value of the future cash flows is substantially all of the fair market value of the underlying asset, the lease term is for a significant portion of the remaining economic life of the underlying asset, the title to the underlying asset transfers at the end of the lease term, or if the underlying asset is of such a specialized nature that it is expected to have no alternative uses to the lessor at the end of the term. Leases that do not meet the finance lease criteria are accounted for as an operating lease. Operating lease assets represent a right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and operating lease liabilities represent an obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Operating lease liabilities with a term greater than one year and their corresponding ROUs are recognized on the balance sheet at the commencement date of the lease based on the present value of lease payments over the expected lease term. Certain adjustments to the ROU may be required for items such as initial direct costs paid or incentives received. As the Company’s leases do not typically provide an implicit rate, the Company utilizes the appropriate incremental borrowing rate, determined as the rate of interest that the Company would have to pay to borrow on a collateralized basis over a similar term and in a similar economic environment. Lease cost is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term and variable lease payments are recognized as operating expenses in the period in which the obligation for those payments is incurred. Variable lease payments primarily include common area maintenance, utilities, real estate taxes, insurance, and other operating costs that are passed on from the lessor in proportion to the space leased by the Company.

Operating and finance ROU assets are reflected in ROU assets. Operating lease liabilities and finance lease liabilities are reflected in leases liabilities, current and noncurrent in the accompanying balance sheets.

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-based compensation expense represents the cost of the grant date fair value of employee, officer, director and non-employee stock option grants, estimated in accordance with the applicable accounting guidance, recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. The vesting period generally approximates the expected service period of the awards. The Company recognizes forfeitures as they occur.

 

F-10


Table of Contents

The fair value of stock options is estimated using a Black-Scholes valuation model on the date of grant. This method requires certain assumptions be used as inputs, such as the fair value of the underlying common stock, expected term of the option before exercise, expected volatility of the Company’s common stock, risk-free interest rate and expected dividend. Options granted have a maximum contractual term of ten years. The Company has limited historical stock option activity and therefore estimates the expected term of stock options granted using the simplified method, which represents the arithmetic average of the original contractual term of the stock option and its weighted-average vesting term. The expected volatility of stock options is based upon the historical volatility of a number of publicly traded companies in similar stages of clinical development. The Company will continue to apply this process until a sufficient amount of historical information regarding the volatility of its own stock price becomes available. The risk-free interest rates used are based on the U.S. Treasury yield in effect at the time of grant for zero-coupon U.S. treasury notes with maturities approximately equal to the expected term of the stock options. The Company has historically not declared or paid any dividends and does not currently expect to do so in the foreseeable future, and therefore has estimated the dividend yield to be zero.

Common Stock Valuation

Due to the absence of an active market for the Company’s common stock, the Company utilized methodologies, approaches and assumptions consistent with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ Audit and Accounting Practice Guide: Valuation of Privately-Held Company Equity Securities Issued as Compensation to estimate the fair value of its common stock. In determining the exercise prices for options granted, the Company has considered the fair value of the common stock as of the grant date. The fair value of the common stock has been determined based upon a variety of factors, including the prices at which the Company sold shares of its convertible preferred stock to outside investors in arms-length transactions, and the superior rights, preferences and privileges of the preferred stock relative to the common stock at the time of each grant; the progress of the Company’s research and development programs, including their stages of development, and the Company’s business strategy; external market and other conditions affecting the biotechnology industry, and trends within the biotechnology industry; the Company’s financial position, including cash on hand, and its historical and forecasted performance and operating results; the lack of an active public market for the Company’s common stock; the likelihood of achieving a liquidity event for the Company’s securityholders, such as an initial public offering or a sale of the company, taking into consideration prevailing market conditions; the hiring of key personnel and the experience of management; and the analysis of initial public offerings and the market performance of peer companies in the biopharmaceutical industry, as well as completed mergers and acquisitions of peer companies.

Significant changes to the key assumptions underlying the factors used could result in different fair values of common stock at each valuation date.

Convertible Preferred Stock

The Company records convertible preferred stock at fair value on the dates of issuance, net of issuance costs. Upon the occurrence of certain events that are outside the Company’s control, including a deemed liquidation event, holders of the convertible preferred stock can cause redemption for cash. Therefore, convertible preferred stock is classified outside of stockholders’ deficit on the balance sheets as events triggering the liquidation preferences are not solely within the Company’s control. The carrying values of the convertible preferred stock are adjusted to their liquidation preferences if and when it becomes probable that such a liquidation event will occur.

Commitments and Contingencies

The Company recognizes a liability with regard to loss contingencies when it believes it is probable a liability has been incurred, and the amount can be reasonably estimated. If some amount within a range of loss

 

F-11


Table of Contents

appears at the time to be a better estimate than any other amount within the range, the Company accrues that amount. When no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount the Company accrues the minimum amount in the range. The Company has not recorded any such liabilities as of December 31, 2019 and 2020.

Income Taxes

The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined on the basis of the differences between the financial statements and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

The Company recognizes deferred tax assets to the extent that the Company believes these assets are more likely than not to be realized. In making such a determination, management considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences, projected future taxable income, tax-planning strategies, and results of recent operations. If management determines that the Company would be able to realize its deferred tax assets in the future in excess of their recorded amount, management would make an adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance, which would reduce the provision for income taxes.

As of December 31, 2019 and 2020, the Company maintained valuation allowances against its deferred tax assets as the Company concluded it had not met the “more likely than not” to be realized threshold. Changes in the valuation allowance when they are recognized in the provision for income taxes may result in a change in the estimated annual effective tax rate.

The Company records uncertain tax positions on the basis of a two-step process whereby (1) management determines whether it is more likely than not that the tax positions will be sustained on the basis of the technical merits of the position and (2) for those tax positions that meet the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold, management recognizes the largest amount of tax benefit that is more than 50 percent likely to be realized upon ultimate settlement with the related tax authority. The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within income tax expense. Any accrued interest and penalties are included within the related tax liability. As of December 31, 2020, the Company had no accrued interest or penalties.

Comprehensive Loss

Comprehensive loss is defined as a change in equity during a period from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources. The Company’s comprehensive loss was the same as its reported net loss for all periods presented.

Net Loss Per Share

Basic net loss per share is calculated by dividing the net loss by the weighted-average number of common stock outstanding for the period. Diluted net loss per share is computed by dividing the net loss by the weighted average number of shares of common stock and common stock equivalents outstanding for the period. Common stock equivalents are only included when their effect is dilutive. The Company’s potentially dilutive securities include convertible preferred stock, unvested common stock issued to founders, unvested common stock upon early exercise of stock options and outstanding stock options under the Company’s equity incentive plan and have been excluded from the computation of diluted net loss per share as they would be anti-dilutive to the net loss per share. For all periods presented, there is no difference in the number of shares used to calculate basic and diluted shares outstanding due to the Company’s net loss position.

 

F-12


Table of Contents

The following table sets forth the computation of the basic and diluted net loss per share (in thousands, except share and per share amounts):

 

    

Year Ended December 31,

 
    

2019

    

2020

 

Numerator:

     

Net loss

   $ (4,065    $ (9,336
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Denominator:

     

Weighted average common shares issued

     1,072,175        1,138,890  

Less: weighted average unvested founder shares of common stock

     (51,781      (492,174

Less: weighted average unvested common stock issued upon early exercise of common stock options

     —          (52,972
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Weighted average shares used to compute net loss per common share, basic and diluted

     1,020,394        593,744  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net loss per share, basic and diluted

   $ (3.98    $ (15.72
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

The following table sets forth the outstanding potentially dilutive securities that have been excluded in the calculation of diluted net loss per share because their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.

 

    

As of December 31,

 
    

2019

    

2020

 

Convertible preferred stock

     —          3,374,560  

Unvested restricted common stock subject to repurchase

     44,191        381,606  

Unvested common stock upon early exercise of stock options

     —          88,636  

Options to purchase common stock

     —          529,269  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     44,191        4,374,071  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Emerging Growth Company Status

The Company is an emerging growth company, as defined in the Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012 (“JOBS Act”). Under the JOBS Act, emerging growth companies can delay adopting new or revised accounting standards issued subsequent to the enactment of the JOBS Act until such time as those standards apply to private companies. The Company has elected to avail itself of this exemption from new or revised accounting standards and, therefore, will not be subject to the same new or revised accounting standards as other public companies that are not emerging growth companies. As a result, the Company’s financial statements may not be comparable to companies that comply with the new or revised accounting pronouncements as of public company effective dates.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842), which requires a lessee to recognize a lease liability and a right-of-use asset for all leases with lease terms of more than 12 months. Additionally, certain qualitative and quantitative disclosures will be required in the financial statements. Companies may adopt this guidance using a modified retrospective approach for leases that exist or are entered into after the beginning of the earliest comparative period in the financial statements. The Company early adopted this guidance effective January 1, 2019. As a result of the adoption of Topic 842 the Company recognized right-of-use assets and lease liabilities, on January 1, 2019, on its balance sheet. Refer to Note 9 for further information related to the accounting for the lease commitments under Topic 842.

 

F-13


Table of Contents

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU No. 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740) Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes. The Board issued this Update as part of its Simplification Initiative to improve areas of GAAP and reduce cost and complexity while maintaining usefulness. The main provisions remove certain exceptions including the exception to the general methodology for calculating income taxes in an interim period when a year-to-date loss exceeds the anticipated loss for the year. In addition, the amendments simplify income tax accounting in the areas such as income based franchise taxes, eliminating the requirements to allocate consolidated current and deferred tax expense in certain instances and a requirement that an entity reflects the effect of enacted changes in tax laws or rates in the annual effective tax rate computation in the interim period that includes the enactment date. For public companies, the standard is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019 and interim periods therein. The Company adopted this ASU on the effective date of January 1, 2020, which did not have a material impact on the results of operations, cash flows, financial condition or related disclosures.

3. Fair Value Measurements

The accounting guidance defines fair value, establishes a consistent framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosure for each major asset and liability category measured at fair value on either a recurring or nonrecurring basis. Fair value is defined as an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. As such, fair value is a market-based measurement that should be determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability. As a basis for considering such assumptions, the accounting guidance establishes a three-tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities.

Level 2—Quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs which are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.

Level 3—Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e. supported by little or no market activity).

The carrying amounts of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, prepaid and other current assets, accounts payable, and accrued liabilities, approximate fair value due to their short maturities. Included in cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2019 and 2020 are $0 and $4.7 million in carrying value and fair value of money market funds based upon a Level 1 fair value assessment. No transfers between levels have occurred during the periods presented.

The Company has elected the fair value option for the SAFEs. The fair value of the SAFEs as of December 31, 2019 was $4.3 million based upon a Level 3 fair value assessment. Changes in fair value for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020 which are reported on the Company’s Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss were $0.9 million and $15,000, respectively. The SAFEs converted to shares of the Company’s Series A convertible preferred stock on January 6, 2020. Refer to Note 6 for further information on the SAFE.

Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are as follows (in thousands):

 

    

 

    

Fair Value Measurements Using

 
    

As of
December 31,
2019

    

Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets (Level 1)

    

Significant Other
Observable
Inputs (Level 2)

    

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs (Level 3)

 

SAFEs

   $ 4,325      $ —        $ —        $ 4,325  

 

F-14


Table of Contents

The following table provides a reconciliation of all liabilities measured at fair value using level 3 significant unobservable inputs (in thousands):

 

    

Simple
agreement
for future
equity

 

Balance at January 1, 2019

   $ 3,226  

Issuance of SAFEs

     165  

Changes in fair value reflected as change in fair value of SAFEs

     934  
  

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2019

     4,325  

Changes in fair value reflected as change in fair value of SAFEs

     15  

Conversion into Series A convertible preferred stock

     (4,340
  

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2020

   $ —    
  

 

 

 

4. Property and Equipment

Property and equipment consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

    

As of December 31,

 
    

2019

    

2020

 

Equipment

   $ —        $ 293  

Computers and software

     11        33  

Furniture and fixtures

     14        14  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     25        340  

Less: accumulated depreciation

     (5      (43
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total property and equipment, net

   $ 20      $ 297  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

The Company recognized $8,000 and $47,000 in depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, respectively.

5. Accrued and Other Current Liabilities

Accrued and other current liabilities consist of the following (in thousands):

 

    

As of
December 31,

 
    

2019

    

2020

 

Accrued payroll and other employee benefits

   $ 279      $ 774  

Accrued research and development

     —          163  

Accrued legal and professional fees

     77        67  

Accrued other general and administrative fees

     8        48  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total accrued and other current liabilities

   $ 364      $ 1,052  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

6. Simple Agreements for Future Equity

During 2018 and 2019, the Company entered into SAFEs with investors. The SAFEs granted investors with rights to participate in a future equity financing. The SAFEs contained a number of conversion and redemption provisions, including conversion upon an equity event, and settlement upon liquidity or dissolution

 

F-15


Table of Contents

events. The Company elected the fair value option of accounting for the SAFEs (see Note 3). The issuance costs related to the SAFEs were therefore recorded as a general and administrative expense in the Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss.

On January 6, 2020, the Company entered into a Series A Preferred Stock Purchase agreement which resulted in the conversion of the outstanding SAFEs into 526,074 shares of Series A convertible preferred stock at a conversion price of $6.11 per share.

7. Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

Stockholders’ Deficit

Under the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated January 6, 2020, the Company had a total of 16,223,046 shares of capital stock authorized for issuance, consisting of 10,000,000 shares of common stock, par value of $0.0001 per share, and 6,223,046 shares of convertible preferred stock, par value of $0.0001 per share.

Convertible Preferred Stock

The Company entered into the Series A Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement dated January 6, 2020 (“Stock Purchase Agreement”) whereby the Company agreed to issue and sell, and certain investors agreed to purchase up to an aggregate of 5,696,972 shares of Series A convertible preferred stock, at a price of $8.25 per share, in two closings. In January 2020, the Company completed its first closing and issued 2,848,486 shares at a price of $8.25 per share resulting in gross proceeds of $23.5 million and incurred issuance costs of $0.2 million. The Stock Purchase Agreement granted investors the rights and obligations to purchase an additional 2,848,486 shares of Series A convertible preferred stock (“Future Tranche Right”) at a price of $8.25 per share during a second closing which would occur upon triggering of future milestone events, provided that they occur before January 6, 2022. In February 2021, the Company completed its second closing and issued 2,848,486 shares of Series A convertible preferred stock at a price of $8.25 per share for gross proceeds of $23.5 million and incurred issuance costs of $5,000.

The Company determined that the Future Tranche Right did not meet the definition of a freestanding financial instrument as it was not legally detachable. The Future Tranche Right was also evaluated as an embedded derivative and the Company determined it did not meet the definition of a derivative instrument for which bifurcation would be required.

As of December 31, 2020, the Company’s Series A convertible preferred stock has been classified as temporary equity in the accompanying balance sheets given that the holders of the convertible preferred stock could cause certain events to occur that are outside of the Company’s control whereby the Company could be obligated to redeem the convertible preferred stock. The carrying value of the convertible preferred stock is not adjusted to the redemption value until the contingent redemption events are considered to be probable of occurring. The Company’s convertible preferred stock has the following characteristics:

Dividends

The Company shall not declare, pay or set aside any dividends on shares of any class of capital stock of the Company unless the holders of the Series A convertible preferred stock shall first receive, or simultaneously receive, a noncumulative dividend on each outstanding share of the Series A convertible preferred stock equal to an amount as defined in the Company’s Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation. No such dividends have been declared or paid through December 31, 2020.

 

F-16


Table of Contents

Preferences on Liquidation

The holders of the Series A convertible preferred stock are entitled to receive liquidation preferences, in the event of a change in control, at an amount per share equal to the Series A original issuance price of $8.25, plus any dividends declared but unpaid. Liquidation payments to the holders of the Series A convertible preferred stock have priority and are made in preference to any payments to the holders of common stock.

After full payment of the liquidation preference to the holders of the Series A convertible preferred stock, the remaining assets, if any, will be distributed to the holders of the Series A convertible preferred stock and common stock, pro rata based on the number of shares held by each holder, treating for this purpose all such securities as if they had been converted to common stock.

Conversion Rights

The shares of Series A convertible preferred stock are convertible into an equal number of shares of common stock, at the option of the holder, subject to certain anti-dilution adjustments. The conversion rate for the convertible preferred stock is determined by dividing the original issue price by the conversion price. The conversion price is initially the original issue price, but is subject to adjustment for dividends, stock splits, and other distributions. The conversion rate at December 31, 2020 for the Series A convertible preferred stock into common stock was 1:1.

Each share of Series A convertible preferred stock will be automatically converted into common stock at the then effective conversion rate (i) upon the closing of the sale of common stock to the public at a price of at least two and a half times the Series A original issuance price of $8.25 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 $65.0 million of gross proceeds to the Company, or (ii) the date and time, or the occurrence of an event, specified by vote or written consent of the holders of 60% of the outstanding shares of Series A convertible preferred stock.

Redemption Rights

The holders of Series A convertible preferred stock do not have any redemption rights, except upon certain liquidation and dissolution events that are outside of the Company’s control.

Voting

The holder of each share of Series A convertible preferred stock is entitled to one vote for each share of common stock into which such shares of Series A convertible preferred stock could then be converted and shall vote together with the holders of common stock as a single class, on an as-converted to common stock basis.

Common Stock

As of December 31, 2019 and 2020, of the 8,000,000 and 10,000,000 authorized shares of common stock, respectively, 1,085,918 and 1,174,554 shares were issued, respectively, and 1,041,727 and 704,312 shares were outstanding, respectively.

The voting, dividend, and liquidation rights of the holders of the common stock are subject to, and qualified by, the rights, preferences and privileges of the holders of the Series A convertible preferred stock. The holders of the common stock are entitled to one vote for each share of common stock held at all meetings of stockholders.

 

F-17


Table of Contents

Common stock reserved for future issuance consisted of the following:

 

    

As of
December 31,
2020

 

Convertible preferred stock

     3,374,560  

Common stock options granted and outstanding

     529,269  

Shares available for future issuance under the 2020 equity incentive plan

     11,005  
  

 

 

 

Total common stock reserved for future issuance

     3,914,834  
  

 

 

 

Since inception, the Company has issued 1,085,918 shares of restricted common stock at a price of $0.0001 per share to certain founders of the Company (“Founders Stock”). The Company maintains a repurchase right whereby the Founders Stock are released from such repurchase right over a period of time of continued service by the recipient. Any shares subject to repurchase by the Company are not deemed, for accounting purposes, to be outstanding until those shares vest. Unvested outstanding Founders Stock as of December 31, 2019 and 2020 were 44,191 and 381,606 shares, respectively. The amount recorded as liabilities associated with shares issued with repurchase rights were immaterial as of December 31, 2019 and 2020.

In January 2020, in connection with the issuance of the Series A convertible preferred stock, the Company’s founders agreed to modify their outstanding Founders Stock to include vesting provisions that require continued service to the Company in order to vest in those shares. As such, the 562,800 modified shares of common stock became compensatory upon such modification. The total compensation cost resulting from the modification was $0.9 million, which will be recognized over the vesting term of three years had a measurement date fair value of $1.58 per share. For the year ended December 31, 2020, 187,596 shares vested and the Company recognized $0.3 million of stock-based compensation related to the awards. As of December 31, 2020, the total unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested Founders Stock was $0.6 million expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.0 years.

Stock Options

In January 2020, the Company adopted the 2020 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”). The Plan provides for the grant of incentive stock options, non-statutory stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards, restricted stock unit awards, and other stock awards.

The Plan was amended in December 2020 to increase the total number of shares reserved under the Plan to 628,910.

Options granted under the Plan are exercisable at various dates as determined upon grant and will expire no more than ten years from their date of grant. The exercise price of each option shall be determined by the Board of Directors based on the estimated fair value of the Company’s stock on the date of the option grant. The exercise price shall not be less than 100% of the fair market value of the Company’s common stock at the time the option is granted. Most option grants generally vest 25% on the first anniversary of the original vesting commencement date, with the balance vesting monthly over the remaining three years and early exercise is permitted. The vesting period generally occurs over four years unless there is a specific performance vesting trigger at which time those shares will vest when the performance trigger is probable to occur.

 

F-18


Table of Contents

A summary of the Company’s stock option activity under the Plan is as follows (in thousands, except share and per share data and years):

 

    

Options

   

Weighted-Average
Exercise
Price  per Share

    

Weighted-Average
Remaining
Contract Term

    

Aggregate
Intrinsic Value

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2019

     —       $ —          —        $ —    

Granted

     667,836     $ 1.58        

Exercised

     (88,636   $ 1.58        

Cancelled

     (49,931   $ 1.58        
  

 

 

         

Outstanding at December 31, 2020

     529,269     $ 1.58        9.4      $ —    
  

 

 

         

Exercisable at December 31, 2020

     417,179     $ 1.58        9.5      $ —    
  

 

 

         

Vested and expected to vest as of December 31, 2020

     529,269     $ 1.58        9.4      $ —    
  

 

 

         

For the year ended December 31, 2020, the total grant date fair value of vested options was $16,000.

The weighted-average grant date fair value of employee option grants for the year ended December 31, 2020 was $1.23 per share.

Liability for Early Exercise of Stock Options

Certain individuals were granted the ability to early exercise their stock options. The shares of common stock issued from the early exercise of unvested stock options are restricted and continue to vest in accordance with the original vesting schedule. The Company has the option to repurchase any unvested shares at the original purchase price upon any voluntary or involuntary termination. The shares purchased by the employees and non-employees pursuant to the early exercise of stock options are not deemed, for accounting purposes, to be outstanding until those shares vest. The cash received in exchange for exercised and unvested shares related to stock options granted is recorded as a liability for the early exercise of stock options on the accompanying balance sheet and will be transferred into common stock and additional paid-in capital as the shares vest. As of December 31, 2020, 88,636 unvested shares issued under early exercise provisions were subject to repurchase by the Company. As of December 31, 2020, the Company recorded $0.1 million, associated with shares issued with repurchase rights in other long-term liabilities.

Stock-Based Compensation Expense

The Company recognized stock-based compensation expense of $0.1 million in research and development expense and $0.3 million in general and administrative expense for the year ended December 31, 2020. The Company did not grant any stock options during the year ended December 31, 2019.

 

F-19


Table of Contents

The assumptions used in the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value of the employee and nonemployee stock option grants issued during 2020 were as follows:

 

    

Year Ended
December 31,
2020

Stock price

   $1.58

Risk-free rate of interest

   0.3% - 1.5%

Expected term (years)

   5.6 - 6.1

Expected stock price volatility

   92.9 - 97.7%

Dividend yield

  

As of December 31, 2020, the unrecognized compensation cost related to outstanding employee and nonemployee options was $0.6 million and is expected to be recognized as expense over approximately 3.5 years.

During 2020, the Company granted 39,603 shares of employee and nonemployee performance options. The options vesting is contingent on the achievement of a development candidate and also include a service condition of four years from the achievement of the performance condition. The Company determined the performance condition was probable of achievement and therefore, the Company recognized compensation expense of $16,000 for the year ended December 31, 2020. The unrecognized compensation costs related to outstanding performance options was $31,000 as of December 31, 2020.

8. Income Taxes

The following is a reconciliation between the provision for income taxes and income taxes computed using the U.S. federal statutory corporate tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020 is as follows (in thousands):

 

    

Year Ended
December 31,

 
    

2019

    

2020

 

Expected tax benefit at statutory rate

     (853      (1,960

State income tax, net of federal benefit

     (218      (12

Permanent items and other

     221        102  

Research credits

     (57      (70

Change in valuation allowance

     908        1,941  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     1        1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

F-20


Table of Contents

The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as of December 31, 2019 and 2020 are as follows (in thousands):

 

    

As of December 31,

 
    

2019

    

2020

 

Deferred tax assets:

     

Net operating loss carryforwards

     943        2,711  

Tax credits

     77        144  

Others, net

     38        186  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total deferred tax assets

     1,058        3,041  

Valuation allowance

     (1,057      (2,998
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowance

     1        43  

Deferred tax liabilities:

     

Depreciation

     (1      (7

Right of use assets

     —          (36
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total deferred tax liabilities

     (1      (43
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net deferred tax assets / (liabilities)

     —          —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

The Company has established a valuation allowance against its net deferred tax assets due to the uncertainty surrounding the realization of such assets. The Company periodically evaluates the recoverability of the deferred tax assets. At such time as it is determined that it is more likely than not that deferred assets are realizable, the valuation allowance will be reduced. The Company has recorded a full valuation allowance of $3.0 million as of December 31, 2020 as management cannot conclude that it is more likely than not that certain deferred tax assets will be realized primarily due to the history of losses from inception. The Company increased its valuation allowance by approximately $1.9 million during the year ended December 31, 2020.

At December 31, 2020, the Company had federal and state tax loss carry forwards of approximately $11.7 million and $3.7 million, respectively. As a result of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, for U.S. income tax purposes, net operating losses generated after December 31, 2017 can be carried forward indefinitely, but are limited to 80% utilization against future taxable income after January 1, 2021. Of the amount of federal net operating loss carryforwards, $11.7 million can be carried forward indefinitely. Unless previously utilized, the state net operating losses will begin to expire in 2038.

At December 31, 2020, the Company has federal and California research and development tax credits of $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively. The federal research and development tax credits begin to expire in 2038 unless previously utilized. The California research and development tax credits carry forward indefinitely.

Pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Sections 382 and 383, annual use of the Company’s NOL and research and development credit carryforwards may be limited in the event a cumulative change in ownership of more than 50% occurs within a three-year period. The Company has not completed an ownership change analysis pursuant to IRC Section 382. If ownership changes have occurred or occurs in the future, the amount of remaining tax attribute carryforwards available to offset taxable income and income tax expense in future years may be restricted or eliminated. If eliminated, the related asset would be removed from deferred tax assets with a corresponding reduction in the valuation allowance.

Uncertain tax positions are evaluated based upon the facts and circumstances that exist at each reporting period. Subsequent changes in judgement based upon new information may lead to changes in recognition, derecognition, and measurement. Adjustment may result, for example, upon resolution of an issue with the taxing authorities or expiration of a statute of limitations barring an assessment for an issue.

 

F-21


Table of Contents

The Company recognizes a tax benefit from an uncertain tax position when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by tax authorities.

The following table summarizes the changes to the Company’s gross unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, respectively (in thousands):

 

    

Year Ended
December 31,

 
    

2019

    

2020

 

Beginning balance at January 1

   $ —        $ —    

Additions related to current year positions

     —          91  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Ending balance at December 31

   $ —        $ 91  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Due to the existence of the valuation allowance, future recognition of previously unrecognized tax benefits will not impact the Company’s effective tax rate. The Company is subject to taxation in the United States and various state jurisdictions. All of the Company’s tax years from inception are subject to examination by federal and state tax authorities. The Company’s practice is to recognize interest and penalties related to income tax matters in income tax expense.

The Company had no accrued interest or penalties related to income tax matters in the Company’s balance sheet as of December 31, 2020 and has not recognized interest or penalties in the Company’s Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss for the year ended December 31, 2020. Further, the Company is not currently under examination by any federal, state or local tax authority.

The CARES Act provides sweeping tax changes in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of the more significant provisions are removal of certain limitations on utilization of net operating losses, increasing the loss carryback period for certain losses to five years, and increasing the ability to deduct interest expense, as well as amending certain provisions of the previously enacted Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. As of December 31, 2020, the Company has not recorded any material adjustments to its income tax provision related to the provisions within the CARES Act. The Company will continue to analyze the impact that the CARES Act will have, if any, on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

9. Leases

As of December 31, 2020, the Company had operating leases for office and lab space in Carlsbad, California and a finance lease for equipment.

 

F-22


Table of Contents

The following table presents the balances for operating and finance leases ROU assets and lease liabilities (in thousands):

 

    

As of
December 31,

 
    

2019

    

2020

 

Assets

     

Operating lease assets

   $ 226      $ 148  

Finance lease assets

     30        21  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total lease assets

   $ 256      $ 169  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liabilities

     

Operating lease liabilities, current

   $ 122      $ 133  

Operating lease liabilities, noncurrent

     106        —    

Finance lease liabilities, current

     17        9  

Finance lease liabilities, noncurrent

     8        —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total lease liabilities

   $ 253      $ 142  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

As of December 31, 2020, the Company paid cash security deposits totaling $17,000, of which all is refundable in November 2021 and is included in prepaids and other current assets in the Company’s balance sheet.

The components of lease expense include operating and finance lease costs. For the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, operating lease costs were $0.1 million and $0.2 million, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, finance lease costs consisted of $4,000 and $9,000 in amortization and $1,000 and $1,000 of interest expense, respectively. Amortization is recorded in research and development expenses and interest expense is recorded in other expenses in the Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss.

Maturities of lease liabilities, weighted-average remaining term and weighted-average discount rate were as follows (in thousands):

 

    

As of
December 31, 2020

 
    

Operating
Leases

    

Finance
Lease

 

Year ending December 31, 2021

   $ 137      $ 9  

2022

     —          —    

2023

     —          —    

2024

     —          —    

Thereafter

     —          —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total minimum lease payments

     137        9  

Less: amount representing interest

     (4      —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Present value of lease liabilities

     133        9  

Less: current portion of lease liabilities

     (133      (9
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Lease liabilities, noncurrent

   $ —        $ —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

F-23


Table of Contents
    

As of
December 31,

 
    

2019

   

2020

 

Weighted-average remaining lease term (years)—operating leases

     1.8       0.8  

Weighted-average remaining lease term (years)—finance lease

     1.5       0.6  

Weighted-average incremental borrowing rate—operating leases

     7.50     7.50

Weighted-average incremental borrowing rate—finance lease

     7.50     7.50

For the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, operating cash flows included $0.1 million and $0.2 million of cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of operating lease liabilities, respectively, and $1,000 and $1,000 of cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of finance lease liabilities, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, financing cash flows included $8,000 and $17,000 of cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of finance lease liabilities, respectively.

In August 2020, the Company entered into an operating lease for office and lab space in Carlsbad, California (the “New Lease”). The Company paid a cash security deposit of $21,000, of which all is refundable at the end of the lease term and is included in long-term assets in the Company’s balance sheet as of December 31, 2020. Additionally, as part of the terms of the lease agreement, the Company is required to maintain a letter of credit of $0.2 million which must remain in place until 2023 at the earliest and is considered a non-current asset as of December 31, 2020. The New Lease is expected to commence in the second quarter of 2021 and projected lease payments over the life of the lease are expected to be $1.5 million, with a lease expiration of 60 months from lease commencement as defined in the lease agreement. The Company has the option to renew the lease for two additional thirty-six-month periods.

10. License Agreement

In May 2019, the Company entered into a license agreement (the “License Agreement”) with Emory University (“Emory”). Under the License Agreement, the Company licensed the exclusive, royalty-bearing, sublicensable, rights to certain know-how, patents, and patent applications to pursue the development and commercialization of certain inventions and technology for the treatment of disease. As consideration of the license, the Company agreed to pay an upfront fee of $0.1 million, which the Company immediately expensed as research and development expense in the Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss as there was no alternative future use for the license. Under the License Agreement, the Company agreed to make future development and regulatory milestone payments of up to $0.2 million, commercial milestone payments of up to $0.2 million and sales milestone payments of up to $0.5 million. The Company also agreed to pay 1.75% of the net selling price of all royalty-bearing products that are covered by an issued patent included in the License Agreement. As of December 31, 2020, no milestones had been accrued as there were no potential milestones yet considered probable.

Within the terms of the License Agreement, the Company may provide a 90-day written notice of termination. In February 2021, the Company provided notice to Emory of their decision to voluntarily terminate the License Agreement as the license was unrelated to the Company’s current technology and was no longer relevant to the Company’s product pipeline. The license agreement was effectively terminated in May 2021.

11. Employee Benefits

The Company offers a 401(k) plan (“401(k) Plan”) for all employees who have met certain eligibility requirements. Under the 401(k) Plan, employees may elect to contribute a portion of their eligible compensation, subject to certain limitations. The Company did not make any matching employer contributions to the 401(k) Plan as of and for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020.

 

F-24


Table of Contents

12. Subsequent Events

For the purposes of the financial statements as of December 31, 2020 and the year then ended, the Company has evaluated the subsequent events through May 28, 2021, the date the audited annual financial statements were issued.

In March 2021, the Company issued 3,874,793 shares of Series B convertible preferred stock at a price of $27.4337 per share for gross proceeds of $106.3 million.

The Company entered into an agreement on March 18, 2021 to sublease office space in Carlsbad, California for general office use which commenced on March 22, 2021 and will expire on November 30, 2021.

 

F-25


Table of Contents

Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

Balance Sheets

(in thousands, except share and par value data)

 

     December 31, 2020     June 30, 2021  
           (unaudited)  

Assets

    

Current assets:

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 15,224     $ 135,204  

Prepaid and other current assets

     57       217  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current assets

     15,281       135,421  

Restricted cash

     243       243  

Property and equipment, net

     297       670  

Right-of-use asset

     169       1,253  

Deferred offering costs (including related party amounts of $0 and $53, respectively)

     —         2,310  

Other long-term assets

     21       21  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

   $ 16,011     $ 139,918  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities, Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

    

Current liabilities:

    

Accounts payable (including related party amounts of $0 and $60, respectively)

   $ 664     $ 1,875  

Lease liabilities, current

     142       136  

Accrued and other current liabilities

     1,052       1,738  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current liabilities

     1,858       3,749  

Lease liabilities, non-current

     —         1,091  

Other long-term liabilities

     140       471  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities

     1,998       5,311  

Commitments and contingencies (Note 2)

    

Convertible preferred stock:

    

Series A convertible preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; 6,223,046 shares authorized at December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021 (unaudited), respectively; 3,374,560 and 6,223,046 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021 (unaudited), respectively; $51,340 aggregate liquidation preference at June 30, 2021 (unaudited)

     27,651       51,146  

Series B convertible preferred stock, $0.0001 par value; none and 3,874,793 shares authorized at December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021 (unaudited), respectively; none and 3,874,793 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021 (unaudited), respectively; $106,300 aggregate liquidation preference at June 30, 2021 (unaudited)

     —         106,128  

Stockholders’ deficit:

    

Common stock, $0.0001 par value; 10,000,000 and 12,987,667 shares authorized at December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021 (unaudited), respectively; 1,174,554 and 1,496,521 shares issued at December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021 (unaudited), respectively and 704,312 and 914,132 shares outstanding at December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021 (unaudited); respectively

     —         —    

Additional paid-in capital

     439       1,131  

Accumulated deficit

     (14,077     (23,798
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ deficit

     (13,638     (22,667
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total liabilities, convertible preferred stock and stockholders’ deficit

   $ 16,011     $ 139,918  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited financial statements.

 

F-26


Table of Contents

Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss

(unaudited)

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

     Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
     2020     2021  

Operating expenses:

    

Research and development

   $ 2,413     $ 7,902  

General and administrative (including related party amounts of $0, and $118, respectively)

     875       1,816  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

     3,288       9,718  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss from operations

     (3,288     (9,718

Other (expense) income:

    

Interest income

     1       5  

Change in fair value of simple agreement for future equity

     (15     —    

Other expense

     (10     (8
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total other expense

     (24     (3
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss and comprehensive loss

   $ (3,312   $ (9,721
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net loss per share, basic and diluted

   $ (6.08   $ (11.80
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Weighted-average shares used to compute net loss per share, basic and diluted

     544,702       823,864  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited financial statements.

 

F-27


Table of Contents

Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

Statements of Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

(unaudited)

(in thousands, except share amounts)

 

    Series A
Convertible

Preferred Stock
    Series B
Convertible

Preferred Stock
    Common Stock     Additional
Paid-In Capital
    Accumulated
Deficit
    Total
Stockholders’
Deficit
 
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  

Balance at December 31, 2019

    —       $ —         —       $ —         1,041,727     $ —       $ —       $ (4,741   $ (4,741

Issuance of Series A convertible preferred stock upon conversion of simple agreement for future equity

    526,074       4,340       —         —         —         —         —         —             

Issuance of Series A convertible preferred stock, net of issuance costs

    2,848,486       23,311       —         —         —         —         —         —         —    

Incremental vesting conditions placed on previously issued common shares

    —         —         —         —         (562,800     —             —    

Vesting of shares of common stock subject to repurchase

    —         —         —         —         113,324       —         —         —         —    

Stock-based compensation

    —         —         —         —         —         —         206       —         206  

Net loss

    —         —         —         —         —         —         —         (3,312     (3,312
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance at June 30, 2020

    3,374,560     $ 27,651       —       $ —         592,251     $ —       $ 206     $ (8,053   $ (7,847
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
 

Balance at December 31, 2020

    3,374,560     $ 27,651       —       $ —         704,312     $ —       $ 439       (14,077   $ (13,638

Issuance of Series A convertible preferred stock, net of issuance costs

    2,848,486       23,495       —         —         —         —         —         —         —    

Issuance of Series B convertible preferred stock, net of issuance costs

    —         —         3,874,793       106,128       —         —         —         —         —    

Issuance of common stock for stock option exercises

    —         —         —         —         54,181       —         87       —         87  

Vesting of shares of common stock subject to repurchase

    —         —         —         —         155,639       —         93       —         93  

Stock-based compensation

    —         —         —         —         —         —         512       —         512  

Net loss

    —         —         —         —         —         —         —         (9,721     (9,721
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Balance at June 30, 2021

    6,223,046     $ 51,146       3,874,793     $ 106,128       914,132     $ —       $ 1,131     $ (23,798   $ (22,667
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

See accompanying notes to unaudited financial statements.

 

F-28


Table of Contents

Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

Statements of Cash Flows

(unaudited)

(in thousands)

 

    

Six Months Ended

June 30,

 
     2020     2021  

Cash flows from operating activities:

    

Net loss

   $ (3,312   $ (9,721

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operations:

    

Depreciation and amortization

     12       49  

Stock-based compensation

     206       512  

Change in fair value of SAFE commitments

     15       —    

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

    

Prepaid expenses and other assets

     35       (156

Accounts payable, accrued expenses and other liabilities (including related party amounts of $0 and $52, respectively)

     (75     171  

Right-of-use assets and lease liabilities, net

     1       6  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in operating activities

     (3,118     (9,139

Cash flows from investing activities:

    

Purchases of property and equipment

     (137     (300
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

     (137     (300

Cash flows from financing activities:

    

Proceeds from the issuance of Series A convertible preferred stock, net of issuance costs

     23,311       23,495  

Proceeds from the issuance of Series B convertible preferred stock, net of issuance costs

     —         106,128  

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

     —         86  

Proceeds from early exercise of stock options

     140       450  

Payments of deferred offering costs

     —         (731

Payments for financing lease

     (7     (9
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash provided by financing activities

     23,444       129,419  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash increase for the period

     20,189       119,980  

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at beginning of the period

     108       15,467  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of the period

   $ 20,297     $ 135,447  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash to the balance sheet

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 20,297     $ 135,204  

Restricted cash

     —         243  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash

   $ 20,297     $ 135,447  
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information

    

Non-cash investing and financing activities:

    

Purchases of equipment included in accounts payable

   $ 76     $ 126  

Issuance of convertible preferred stock in exchange for simple agreement for future equity

     4,340       —    

Deferred offering costs included in accounts payable and accrued expenses

    

(including related party amounts of $0 and $8, respectively)

     —         1,579  

Right-of-use asset obtained in exchange for lease liability

     —         1,215  

Repurchase of early exercise liability in accounts payable

     —         25  

See accompanying notes to unaudited financial statements.

 

F-29


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements

(unaudited)

1. Organization and Basis of Presentation

Organization

Tyra Biosciences, Inc. (the “Company”) was incorporated in the state of Delaware on August 2, 2018. The Company is a precision oncology company designing and developing purpose-built therapies specifically designed to overcome therapy resistance and improve the lives of cancer patients whose tumors have acquired resistance over the course of therapy to currently available treatments.

The Company has devoted substantially all of its efforts to research and development and has not generated revenues from its principal operations.

Liquidity

From inception to June 30, 2021, the Company has devoted substantially all of its resources to organizing and staffing the company, business planning, raising capital, developing its proprietary SNÅP discovery engine, undertaking research and development activities for its development programs, establishing its intellectual property portfolio, and providing general and administrative support for its operations. The Company has a limited operating history, has never generated any revenue, and the sales and income potential of its business is unproven. The Company has incurred net losses and negative cash flows from operating activities since its inception and expects to continue to incur net losses into the foreseeable future as it continues to develop its current and future product candidates. From inception to June 30, 2021, the Company has funded its operations primarily through its Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock financing. In February 2021, the Company received $23.5 million in gross proceeds from the sale of the second tranche of Series A convertible stock. Additionally, in March 2021, the Company received $106.3 million in gross proceeds from the sale of Series B convertible preferred stock.

As the Company continues to pursue its business plan, it expects to finance its operations through a combination of equity offerings, debt financings or other capital sources, including potential collaborations, licenses and other similar arrangements. However, there can be no assurance that any additional financing or strategic transactions will be available to the Company on acceptable terms, if at all. If events or circumstances occur such that the Company does not obtain additional funding, it may need to delay, reduce or eliminate its product development or future commercialization efforts, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, results of operations or financial condition. The accompanying financial statements do not include any adjustments that might be necessary if it were unable to continue as a going concern.

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited financial statements as of June 30, 2021 and for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021 have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and pursuant to Article 10 of Regulation S-X of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and notes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. These unaudited financial statements include only normal and recurring adjustments that the Company believes are necessary to fairly state the Company’s financial position and the results of its operations and cash flows. The results for the six months ended June 30, 2021 are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the full fiscal year or any subsequent interim period. The balance sheet at June 30, 2021 has been derived from the financial statements at that date but does not include all disclosures required by GAAP for complete financial statements. Because all of the disclosures required by GAAP for complete financial statements are not included herein, these unaudited financial statements and the notes

 

F-30


Table of Contents

accompanying them should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020 included elsewhere in this Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

The Company’s significant accounting policies are disclosed in the audited financial statements for the periods ended December 31, 2019 and 2020, included elsewhere in this prospectus. Since the date of those financial statements, there have been no changes to its significant accounting policies, except as noted below.

Deferred Offering Costs

The Company capitalizes costs that are directly associated with in-process equity financings in other long-term assets until such financings are consummated, at which time such costs are recorded against the gross proceeds of the offering. Should an in-process equity financing be abandoned, the deferred offering costs will be expensed immediately as a charge to operating expenses in the Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss.

Commitments and Contingencies

The Company recognizes a liability with regard to loss contingencies when it believes it is probable a liability has been incurred, and the amount can be reasonably estimated. If some amount within a range of loss appears at the time to be a better estimate than any other amount within the range, the Company accrues that amount. When no amount within the range is a better estimate than any other amount the Company accrues the minimum amount in the range. The Company has not recorded any such liabilities as of December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021.

Related Parties

Transactions between related parties are considered to be related party transactions even though they may not be given accounting recognition. Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC 850, Related Party Disclosures (“FASB ASC 850”) requires that transactions with related parties that would make a difference in decision making shall be disclosed so that users of the financial statements can evaluate their significance. Related party transactions typically occur within the context of the following relationships:

 

   

Affiliates of the entity;

 

   

Entities for which investments in their equity securities is typically accounted for under the equity method by the investing entity;

 

   

Trusts for the benefit of employees;

 

   

Principal owners of the entity and members of their immediate families;

 

   

Management of the entity and members of their immediate families;

 

   

Other parties that can significantly influence the management or operating policies of the transacting parties and can significantly influence the other to an extent that one or more of the transacting parties might be prevented from fully pursuing its own separate interests.

The Company previously entered into a consulting agreement with van den Boom & Associates, LLC (or “van den Boom & Associates”), a professional services firm contracted to provide resources to assist with

 

F-31


Table of Contents

day-to-day accounting functions. Services provided under the agreement with van den Boom & Associates are billed at hourly rates. On April 16, 2021, Ms. van den Boom, the managing partner of van den Boom & Associates, entered into an employment agreement with the Company whereby she became its Chief Financial Officer. van den Boom & Associates is considered a related party under FASB ASC 850 from the point in which Ms. van den Boom became a Company officer. During the date of her employment agreement to June 30, 2021, van den Boom & Associates rendered contracted services totaling approximately $0.2 million.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

There were no other significant updates not already disclosed in the Company’s audited financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2020 to the recently issued accounting standards for the six months ended June 30, 2021. Although there are several other new accounting pronouncements issued or proposed by the FASB, the Company does not believe any of those accounting pronouncements have had or will have a material impact on its financial position or operating results.

3. Fair Value Measurements

The accounting guidance defines fair value, establishes a consistent framework for measuring fair value and expands disclosure for each major asset and liability category measured at fair value on either a recurring or nonrecurring basis. Fair value is defined as an exit price, representing the amount that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants. As such, fair value is a market-based measurement that should be determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing an asset or liability. As a basis for considering such assumptions, the accounting guidance establishes a three-tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value as follows:

Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities.

Level 2—Quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs which are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability.

Level 3—Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e. supported by little or no market activity).

The carrying amounts of the Company’s financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, prepaid and other current assets, accounts payable, and accrued liabilities, approximate fair value due to their short maturities. Included in cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021 are money market funds with a carrying value and fair value of $4.7 million and $124.7 million, respectively, based upon a Level 1 fair value assessment. No transfers between levels have occurred during the periods presented.

None of the Company’s non-financial assets or liabilities are recorded at fair value on a non-recurring basis. No transfers between levels have occurred during the periods presented.

 

F-32


Table of Contents

4. Property and Equipment

Property and equipment consisted of the following (in thousands):

 

    

As of
December 31,
2020

    

As of
June 30,
2021

 

Equipment

   $ 293      $ 593  

Computers and software

     33        65  

Leasehold improvements

     —          50  

Furniture and fixtures

     14        49  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     340        757  

Less: accumulated depreciation

     (43      (87
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total property and equipment, net

   $ 297      $ 670  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

The Company recognized $12,000 and $49,000 in depreciation expense for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021, respectively.

5. Accrued and Other Current Liabilities

Accrued and other current liabilities consist of the following (in thousands):

 

    

As of
December 31,
2020

    

As of
June 30,
2021

 

Accrued payroll and other employee benefits

   $ 774      $ 359  

Accrued research and development

     163        327  

Accrued deferred offering costs

     —          914  

Accrued legal and professional fees

     67        65  

Accrued other general and administrative fees

     48        73  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total accrued and other current liabilities

   $ 1,052      $ 1,738  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

6. Simple Agreements for Future Equity (“SAFEs”)

During 2018 and 2019, the Company entered into SAFEs with investors. The SAFEs granted investors with rights to participate in a future equity financing. The SAFEs contained a number of conversion and redemption provisions, including conversion upon an equity event, and settlement upon liquidity or dissolution events. The Company elected the fair value option of accounting for the SAFEs. On January 6, 2020, the Company entered into a Series A Preferred Stock Purchase agreement which converted the outstanding SAFEs into 526,074 shares of Series A convertible preferred stock at a conversion price of $6.11 per share.

7. Convertible Preferred Stock and Stockholders’ Deficit

Stockholders’ Deficit

Under the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated March 5, 2021, the Company had a total of 23,085,506 shares of capital stock authorized for issuance, consisting of 12,987,667 shares of common stock, par value of $0.0001 per share, and 10,097,839 shares of preferred stock, par value of $0.0001 per share.

Convertible Preferred Stock

The Company entered into the Series A Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement dated January 6, 2020 (“Stock Purchase Agreement”) whereby the Company agreed to issue and sell, and certain investors agreed to

 

F-33


Table of Contents

purchase up to an aggregate of 5,696,972 shares of Series A convertible preferred stock, at a price of $8.25 per share, in two closings. In January 2020, the Company completed its first closing and issued 2,848,486 shares at a price of $8.25 per share resulting in gross proceeds of $23.5 million and incurred issuance costs of $0.2 million. The Stock Purchase Agreement granted investors the rights and obligations to purchase an additional 2,848,486 shares of Series A convertible preferred stock (“Future Tranche Right”) at a price of $8.25 per share during a second closing which would occur upon triggering of future milestone events, provided that they occur before January 6, 2022. In February 2021, the Company completed its second closing and issued 2,848,486 shares of Series A convertible preferred stock at a price of $8.25 per share for gross proceeds of $23.5 million and incurred issuance costs of $5,000.

The Company determined that the Future Tranche Right did not meet the definition of a freestanding financial instrument as it was not legally detachable. The Future Tranche Right was also evaluated as an embedded derivative and the Company determined it did not meet the definition of a derivative instrument for which bifurcation would be required.

In March 2021, the Company entered into the Series B Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement under which it issued 3,874,793 shares of Series B convertible preferred stock, at a price of $27.4337 per share, resulting in net proceeds of $106.1 million excluding issuance costs of $0.2 million.

As of December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021, the Company’s convertible preferred stock has been classified as temporary equity in the accompanying balance sheets given that the holders of the convertible preferred stock could cause certain events to occur that are outside of the Company’s control whereby the Company could be obligated to redeem the convertible preferred stock. The carrying value of the convertible preferred stock is not adjusted to the redemption value until the contingent redemption events are considered to be probable of occurring. The Company’s convertible preferred stock has the following characteristics:

Dividends

The Company shall not declare, pay or set aside any dividends on shares of any class of capital stock of the Company unless the holders of the Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock shall first receive, or simultaneously receive, a noncumulative dividend on each outstanding share of the Series A convertible preferred stock equal to an amount as defined in the Company’s Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation. No such dividends have been declared or paid through June 30, 2021.

Preferences on Liquidation

The holders of the Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock are entitled to receive liquidation preferences, in the event of a change in control, at an amount per share equal to the greater of (i) the Series A and Series B original issuance price of $8.25 and $27.4337, respectively, plus any dividends declared but unpaid or (ii) such amount per share as would have been payable had all shares of Series A and Series B preferred stock been converted into common stock. Liquidation payments will be distributed ratably to the holders of the Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock and have priority and are made in preference to any payments to the holders of common stock.

After full payment of the liquidation preference to the holders of the Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock, the remaining assets, if any, will be distributed to the holders of the Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock and common stock, pro rata based on the number of shares held by each holder, treating for this purpose all such securities as if they had been converted to common stock.

Conversion Rights

The shares of Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock are convertible into an equal number of shares of common stock, at the option of the holder, subject to certain anti-dilution adjustments. The conversion

 

F-34


Table of Contents

rate for the convertible preferred stock is determined by dividing the original issue price by the conversion price. The conversion price is initially the original issue price, but is subject to adjustment for dividends, stock splits, and other distributions. The conversion rate at June 30, 2021 for the Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock into common stock was 1:1.

Each share of Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock will be automatically converted into common stock at the then effective conversion rate (i) upon the closing of the sale of common stock to the public 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 $75.0 million of gross proceeds to the Company, or (ii) the date and time, or the occurrence of an event, specified by vote or written consent of the holders of 60% of the outstanding shares of Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock.

Redemption Rights

The holders of Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock do not have any redemption rights, except upon certain liquidation and dissolution events that are outside of the Company’s control.

Voting

The holder of each share of Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock are entitled to one vote for each share of common stock into which such shares of Series A and Series B convertible preferred stock could then be converted and shall vote together with the holders of common stock as a single class and on an as-converted to common stock basis.

Common Stock

As of December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021, of the 10,000,000 and 12,987,667 authorized shares of common stock, respectively, 1,174,554 and 1,496,521 shares were issued, respectively and 704,312 and 914,132 shares were outstanding, respectively.

The voting, dividend, and liquidation rights of the holders of the common stock are subject to, and qualified by, the rights, preferences and privileges of the holders of the Series A convertible preferred stock. The holders of the common stock are entitled to one vote for each share of common stock held at all meetings of stockholders.

Common stock reserved for future issuance consisted of the following:

 

    

As of
December 31,
2020

    

As of
June 30,
2021

 

Convertible preferred stock

     3,374,560        10,097,839  

Common stock options granted and outstanding

     529,269        995,940  

Shares available for future issuance under the 2020 equity incentive plan

     11,005        397,367  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total common stock reserved for future issuance

     3,914,834        11,491,146  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Since inception, the Company has issued 1,085,918 shares of restricted common stock at a price of $0.0001 per share to certain founders of the Company (“Founders Stock”). The Company maintains a repurchase right whereby the Founders Stock are released from such repurchase right over a period of time of continued service by the recipient. Any shares subject to repurchase by the Company are not deemed, for accounting

 

F-35


Table of Contents

purposes, to be outstanding until those shares vest. Unvested outstanding Founders Stock as of December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021 were 381,606 and 285,492 shares, respectively. The amount recorded as liabilities associated with shares issued with repurchase rights were immaterial as of December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021.

In January 2020, in connection with the issuance of the Series A convertible preferred stock, the Company’s founders agreed to modify their outstanding Founders Stock to include vesting provisions that require continued service to the Company in order to vest in those shares. As such, the 562,800 modified shares of common stock became compensatory upon such modification. The total compensation cost resulting from the modification was $0.9 million, which will be recognized over the vesting term of three years had a measurement date fair value of $1.58 per share. For the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021, 93,798 shares vested in each period and the Company recognized $0.1 million of stock-based compensation expense for each period related to the awards. As of June 30, 2021, the total unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested Founders Stock was $0.5 million expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 1.5 years.

Stock Options

In January 2020, the Company adopted the 2020 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”). The Plan provides for the grant of incentive stock options, non-statutory stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock awards, restricted stock unit awards, and other stock awards.

The Plan was amended in March 2021 to increase the total number of shares reserved under the Plan to 1,803,910.

A summary of the Company’s stock option activity under the Plan is as follows (in thousands, except share amounts):

 

    

Options

   

Weighted-Average
Exercise
Price  per Share

    

Weighted-Average
Remaining
Contractual Term

    

Aggregate
Intrinsic Value

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2020

     529,269     $ 1.58        9.4      $ —    

Granted

     804,247     $ 8.88        

Exercised

     (337,576   $ 1.59         $ 271  
  

 

 

         

Outstanding at June 30, 2021

     995,940     $ 7.47        9.6      $ 20,359  
  

 

 

         

Exercisable at June 30, 2021

     234,047     $ 2.34        9.0      $ 5,984  
  

 

 

         

Vested and expected to vest as of June 30, 2021

     991,080     $ 7.49        9.6      $ 20,242  
  

 

 

         

For the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021, the total grant date fair value of vested options was $14,000 and $0.4 million, respectively.

The weighted-average grant date fair value of employee option grants for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021 was $1.23 and $6.92 per share, respectively.

Liability for Early Exercise of Stock Options

Certain individuals were granted the ability to early exercise their stock options. The shares of common stock issued from the early exercise of unvested stock options are restricted and continue to vest in accordance

 

F-36


Table of Contents

with the original vesting schedule. The Company has the option to repurchase any unvested shares at the original purchase price upon any voluntary or involuntary termination. The shares purchased by the employees and non-employees pursuant to the early exercise of stock options are not deemed, for accounting purposes, to be outstanding until those shares vest. The cash received in exchange for exercised and unvested shares related to stock options granted is recorded as a liability for the early exercise of stock options on the accompanying balance sheets and will be transferred into common stock and additional paid-in capital as the shares vest. As of December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021, 88,636 and 296,897 unvested shares issued under early exercise provisions were subject to repurchase by the Company, respectively. As of December 31, 2020 and June 30, 2021, the Company recorded $0.1 million and $0.5 million, respectively, associated with shares issued with repurchase rights in other long-term liabilities.

Stock-Based Compensation Expense

The Company recognized stock-based compensation expense of $0.1 million and $0.2 million in research and development expense and $0.1 million and $0.3 million in general and administrative expense for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021, respectively.

The assumptions used in the Black-Scholes option pricing model to determine the fair value of the employee and nonemployee stock option grants issued during the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021 were as follows:

 

    

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 
    

2020

   

2021

 

Stock Options:

    

Stock price

     $1.58       $2.57 - 27.91  

Risk-free rate of interest

     0.4 - 1.5%       0.8 - 1.1%  

Expected term (years)

     5.8 - 6.1       5.8 - 6.1  

Expected stock price volatility

     92.9 - 97.5%       98.9 - 99.9%  

Dividend yield

            

As of June 30, 2021, the unrecognized compensation cost related to outstanding employee and nonemployee options was $4.6 million, and is expected to be recognized as expense over approximately 3.6 years.

 

F-37


Table of Contents

8. Net Loss Per Share

The following table sets forth the computation of the basic and diluted net loss per share (in thousands, except share and per share amounts):

 

    

Six Months Ended
June 30 ,

 
    

2020

    

2021

 

Numerator:

     

Net loss

   $ (3,312    $ (9,721
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Denominator:

     

Weighted average common shares outstanding

     1,102,835        1,412,367  

Less: weighted average unvested founder shares of common stock

     (541,216      (339,936

Less: weighted average unvested common stock issued upon early exercise of common stock options

     (16,917      (248,567
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Weighted average shares used to compute net loss per common share, basic and diluted

     544,702        823,864  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Net loss per share, basic and diluted

   $ (6.08    $ (11.80
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

The following table sets forth the outstanding potentially dilutive securities that have been excluded in the calculation of diluted net loss per share because their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.

 

    

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 
    

2020

    

2021

 

Convertible preferred stock

     3,374,560        10,097,839  

Unvested restricted common stock subject to repurchase

     493,667        285,492  

Unvested common stock upon early exercise of stock options

     88,636        296,897  

Options to purchase common stock

     341,500        995,940  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     4,298,363        11,676,168  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

9. License Agreement

In May 2019, the Company entered into a license agreement (the “License Agreement”) with Emory University (“Emory”) to obtain rights to certain know-how, patents, and patent applications to pursue the development and commercialization of certain inventions and technology for the treatment of disease. In February 2021, the Company provided 90-day notice to Emory of their decision to voluntarily terminate the License Agreement. There were no milestones payments met or paid in the six months ended June 30, 2021.

10. Leases

In August 2020, the Company entered into an operating lease for office and lab space in Carlsbad, California (the “Carlsbad Lease”). The Carlsbad Lease has a lease term of 60 months from the contractual lease

 

F-38


Table of Contents

commencement date. The Company has the option to renew the lease for two additional thirty-six-month periods. As of June 30, 2021, the underlying asset was made available for use by the Company and therefore, the Carlsbad Lease is considered to have commenced. The Company recognized an initial right-of-use asset and lease liability of $1.2 million, respectively, for the lease. The initial right-of-use asset was calculated based on the initial lease term of 60 months, as the renewal options were not reasonably certain of being exercised. As the Carlsbad Lease did not provide an implicit rate, the Company used an estimated incremental borrowing rate of 7.5%, determined as the rate of interest that the Company would have to pay to borrow on a collateralized basis over a similar term and in a similar economic environment.

In conjunction with the Carlsbad Lease, the Company paid a cash security deposit of $21,000, of which all is refundable at the end of the lease term and is included in long-term assets in the Company’s balance sheet as of June 30, 2021. Additionally, as part of the terms of the lease agreement, the Company was required to maintain a letter of credit of $0.2 million which must remain in place until 2023 at the earliest and was considered a non-current asset as of June 30, 2021.

The following table presents the balances for operating and finance leases ROU assets and lease liabilities (in thousands):

 

     As of December 31,
2020
     As of June 30,
2021
 

Assets

     

Operating lease assets

   $ 148      $ 1,236  

Finance lease assets

     21        17  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total lease assets

   $ 169      $ 1,253  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Liabilities

     

Operating lease liabilities, current

   $ 133      $ 136  

Operating lease liabilities, noncurrent

     —          1,091  

Finance lease liabilities, current

     9        —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total lease liabilities

   $ 142      $ 1,227  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

The components of lease expense include operating and finance lease costs. Amortization is recorded in research and development expenses and interest expense is recorded in other expenses in the Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss. Components of lease cost for the six months ended June 30, 2020 and 2021 were as follows (in thousands):

 

     Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
     2020      2021  

Operating lease cost

   $ 49      $ 127  

Finance lease cost

     

Amortization of ROU assets

     4        4  

Interest on lease liabilities

     1        0  

 

F-39


Table of Contents

Maturities of lease liabilities, weighted-average remaining term and weighted-average discount rate were as follows (in thousands):

 

     As of June 30, 2021
Operating Leases
 

Year ending December 31,

  

2021 (remaining six months)

   $ 117  

2022

     277  

2023

     299  

2024

     308  

2025

     318  

Thereafter

     188  
  

 

 

 

Total minimum lease payments

     1,507  

Less: amount representing interest

     (280
  

 

 

 

Present value of lease liabilities

     1,227  

Less: current portion of lease liabilities

     (136
  

 

 

 

Lease liabilities, noncurrent

   $ 1,091  
  

 

 

 

 

     As of December 31,
2020
    As of June 30,
2021
 

Weighted-average remaining lease term (years) - operating leases

     0.8       4.7  

Weighted-average remaining lease term (years) - finance leases

     0.6       0.1  

Weighted-average incremental borrowing rate - operating leases

     7.50     7.50

Weighted-average incremental borrowing rate - finance leases

     7.50     7.50

Cash flows for operating and finance lease liabilities were as follows (in thousands):

 

     Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
     2020      2021  

Operating Cash Flow Activity

     

Cash paid for operating lease liabilities

   $ 78      $ 140  

Cash paid for finance lease liabilities - interest

     1        —    

Financing Cash Flow Activity

     

Cash paid for finance lease liabilities - principal

     7        9  

Supplemental disclosure on cash flow information

     

Lease assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities

     —          1,215  

11. Subsequent Events

For the purposes of the interim financial statements as of June 30, 2021, the Company has evaluated the subsequent events through August 20, 2021, the date the interim financial statements were issued. The Company has concluded that no subsequent event has occurred that requires disclosure.

 

F-40


Table of Contents

 

 

Through and including                         , 2021 (the 25th day after the date of this prospectus), all dealers effecting transactions in the Common Stock, whether or not participating in this offering, may be required to deliver a prospectus. This delivery requirement is in addition to a dealer’s obligation to deliver a prospectus when acting as an underwriter and with respect to an unsold allotment or subscription.

            Shares

 

 

LOGO

Common Stock

 

 

PROSPECTUS

 

BofA Securities

Jefferies

Cowen

                    , 2021

 

 

 


Table of Contents

Part II

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

Item 13. Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution.

The following table indicates the expenses to be incurred in connection with the offering described in this registration statement, other than underwriting discounts and commissions, all of which will be paid by us. All amounts are estimated except the Securities and Exchange Commission registration fee and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc., or FINRA, filing fee.

 

    

Amount paid or
to be paid

 

SEC registration fee

   $ 10,910  

FINRA filing fee

     15,500  

Nasdaq Global Market listing fee

             *  

Accountants’ fees and expenses

             *  

Legal fees and expenses

             *  

Transfer Agent’s fees and expenses

             *  

Printing and engraving expenses

             *  

Miscellaneous

             *  
  

 

 

 

Total expenses

   $         *  
  

 

 

 
  *

To be provided by amendment.

Item 14. Indemnification of Directors and Officers.

Section 102 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware permits a corporation to eliminate the personal liability of directors of a corporation to the corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for a breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except where the director breached his duty of loyalty, failed to act in good faith, engaged in intentional misconduct or knowingly violated a law, authorized the payment of a dividend or approved a stock repurchase in violation of Delaware corporate law or obtained an improper personal benefit. Our restated certificate of incorporation provides that no director of the Registrant shall be personally liable to it or its stockholders for monetary damages for any breach of fiduciary duty as a director, notwithstanding any provision of law imposing such liability, except to the extent that the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware prohibits the elimination or limitation of liability of directors for breaches of fiduciary duty.

Section 145 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware provides that a corporation has the power to indemnify a director, officer, employee, or agent of the corporation, or a person serving at the request of the corporation for another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise in related capacities against expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by the person in connection with an action, suit or proceeding to which he was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, ending or completed action, suit or proceeding by reason of such position, if such person acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation, and, in any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful, except that, in the case of actions brought by or in the right of the corporation, no indemnification shall be made with respect to any claim, issue or matter as to which such person shall have been adjudged to be liable to the corporation unless and only to the extent that the Court of Chancery or other adjudicating court determines that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all of the circumstances of the case, such person is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for such expenses which the Court of Chancery or such other court shall deem proper.

Our restated certificate of incorporation provides that we will indemnify each person who was or is a party or threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding (other

 

II-1


Table of Contents

than an action by or in the right of us) by reason of the fact that he or she is or was, or has agreed to become, a director or officer, or is or was serving, or has agreed to serve, at our request as a director, officer, partner, employee or trustee of, or in a similar capacity with, another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise (all such persons being referred to as an “Indemnitee”), or by reason of any action alleged to have been taken or omitted in such capacity, against all expenses (including attorneys’ fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred in connection with such action, suit or proceeding and any appeal therefrom, if such Indemnitee acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed to, our best interests, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, he or she had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. Our restated certificate of incorporation provides that we will indemnify any Indemnitee who was or is a party to an action or suit by or in the right of us to procure a judgment in our favor by reason of the fact that the Indemnitee is or was, or has agreed to become, a director or officer, or is or was serving, or has agreed to serve, at our request as a director, officer, partner, employee or trustee of, or in a similar capacity with, another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, or by reason of any action alleged to have been taken or omitted in such capacity, against all expenses (including attorneys’ fees) and, to the extent permitted by law, amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred in connection with such action, suit or proceeding, and any appeal therefrom, if the Indemnitee acted in good faith and in a manner he or she reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed to, our best interests, except that no indemnification shall be made with respect to any claim, issue or matter as to which such person shall have been adjudged to be liable to us, unless a court determines that, despite such adjudication but in view of all of the circumstances, he or she is entitled to indemnification of such expenses. Notwithstanding the foregoing, to the extent that any Indemnitee has been successful, on the merits or otherwise, he or she will be indemnified by us against all expenses (including attorneys’ fees) actually and reasonably incurred in connection therewith. Expenses must be advanced to an Indemnitee under certain circumstances.

We intend to enter into indemnification agreements with each of our directors and officers. These indemnification agreements may require us, among other things, to indemnify our directors and officers for some expenses, including attorneys’ fees, judgments, fines and settlement amounts incurred by a director or officer in any action or proceeding arising out of his or her service as one of our directors or officers, or any of our subsidiaries or any other company or enterprise to which the person provides services at our request.

We maintain a general liability insurance policy that covers certain liabilities of directors and officers of our corporation arising out of claims based on acts or omissions in their capacities as directors or officers.

In any underwriting agreement we enter into in connection with the sale of common stock being registered hereby, the underwriters will agree to indemnify, under certain conditions, us, our directors, our officers and persons who control us within the meaning of the Securities Act, against certain liabilities.

Item 15. Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities.

Set forth below is information regarding unregistered securities issued by us since our inception on August 2, 2018. Also included is the consideration received by us for such securities and information relating to the section of the Securities Act, or rule of the SEC, under which exemption from registration was claimed.

(a) Issuances of Securities

1. Between October 2018 and March 2019, the Company entered into SAFEs with investors for an aggregate principal purchase price of $3,214,467. The SAFEs granted investors rights to participate in a future equity financing. In January 2020, the SAFEs converted into 526,074 shares of our Series A Preferred Stock at a conversion price of $6.11 per share.

2. In January 2020, we issued and sold an aggregate of 2,848,486 Series A preferred shares at a price per share of $8.25 for aggregate cash consideration of approximately $23.5 million.

 

II-2


Table of Contents

3. In February 2021, we issued and sold an aggregate of 2,848,486 Series A preferred shares at a price per share of $8.25 for aggregate cash consideration of approximately $23.5 million.

4. In March 2021, we issued and sold an aggregate of 3,874,793 Series B preferred shares at a price per share of $27.4337 for aggregate cash consideration of approximately $106.3 million.

No underwriters were involved in the foregoing issuances of securities. The securities described in this section (a) of Item 15 were issued to investors in reliance upon the exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, as set forth in Section 4(a)(2) under the Securities Act and Regulation D promulgated thereunder relative to transactions by an issuer not involving any public offering, to the extent an exemption from such registration was required. All holders of securities described above represented to us in connection with their purchase or issuance that they were accredited investors and were acquiring the securities for their own account for investment purposes only and not with a view to, or for sale in connection with, any distribution thereof and that they could bear the risks of the investment and could hold the securities for an indefinite period of time. The holders received written disclosures that the securities had not been registered under the Securities Act and that any resale must be made pursuant to a registration statement or an available exemption from such registration.

(b) Grants of Restricted Stock and Stock Options

Since August 2, 2018, we have granted to certain of our directors, employees and consultants (in connection with services provided to us by such persons) options to purchase 1,472,083 shares of our common stock with a weighted average exercise price of $5.57 under the 2020 Plan.

Since August 2, 2018, the Company has issued 1,085,918 shares of restricted common stock at a price of $0.0001 per share to certain founders of our company, or Founders Shares. In January 2020, in connection with the issuance of our Series A Preferred Stock, certain holders of the Founders Shares agreed to modify their outstanding Founders Stock to include vesting provisions that require continued service to our company in order to vest in those Founders Shares. As of June 30, 2021, 285,492 shares of Founders Stock were subject to such vesting conditions.

The restricted stock, stock options and the common stock issuable upon the exercise of such options as described in this section (b) of Item 15 were issued pursuant to written compensatory plans or arrangements with our employees and directors, in reliance on the exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act provided by Rule 701 promulgated under the Securities Act or the exemption set forth in Section 4(a)(2) under the Securities Act and Regulation D promulgated thereunder relative to transactions by an issuer not involving any public offering. All recipients either received adequate information about us or had access, through employment or other relationships, to such information.

All of the foregoing securities are deemed restricted securities for purposes of the Securities Act. All certificates representing the issued shares of capital stock described in this Item 15 included appropriate legends setting forth that the securities had not been registered and the applicable restrictions on transfer.

Item 16. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules.

(a) Exhibits. See Exhibit Index attached to this registration statement, which is incorporated by reference herein.

 

II-3


Table of Contents

(b) Financial Statement Schedules. Schedules not listed above have been omitted because the information required to be set forth therein is not applicable or is shown in the combined financial statements or notes thereto.

Exhibit Index

 

Exhibit
Number

  

Description of Exhibit

  1.1*    Form of Underwriting Agreement
  3.1    Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (currently in effect)
  3.2    Bylaws (currently in effect)
  3.3    Form of Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (to be effective immediately prior to the completion of this offering)
  3.4    Form of Amended and Restated Bylaws (to be effective immediately prior to the completion of this offering)
  4.1    Specimen stock certificate evidencing the shares of common stock
  4.2    Amended and Restated Investors’ Rights Agreement, dated March 5, 2021, by and among the Registrant and certain of its stockholders
  5.1*    Opinion of Latham & Watkins LLP
10.1#    Tyra Biosciences, Inc. 2020 Equity Incentive Plan and form of stock option agreement thereunder
10.2#*    Tyra Biosciences, Inc. 2021 Incentive Award Plan and form of stock option agreement and form of restricted stock unit agreement thereunder
10.3#*    Tyra Biosciences, Inc. 2021 Employee Stock Purchase Plan
10.4#*    Non-Employee Director Compensation Program
10.5#    Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated January 6, 2020, by and between Todd Harris and the Registrant
10.6#    Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated January 6, 2020, by and between Daniel Bensen and the Registrant
10.7#    Employment Agreement, dated April 16, 2021, by and between Esther van den Boom and the Registrant
10.8#    Employment Agreement, dated January 16, 2020, by and between Ronald Swanson and the Registrant
10.9#    Employment Agreement, dated November 9, 2020, by and between Hiroomi Tada and the Registrant
10.10#    Employment Agreement, dated January 1, 2021, by and between Robert Hudkins and the Registrant
10.11#    Employment Agreement, dated January 18, 2021, by and between Piyush Patel and the Registrant
10.12#    Second Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated August 18, 2021, by and between Todd Harris and the Registrant
10.13#    Second Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated August 18, 2021, by and between Daniel Bensen and the Registrant
10.14#    Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated August 18, 2021, by and between Esther van den Boom and the Registrant

 

II-4


Table of Contents

Exhibit
Number

  

Description of Exhibit

10.15#    Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated August 18, 2021, by and between Ronald Swanson and the Registrant
10.16#    Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated August 18, 2021, by and between Hiroomi Tada and the Registrant
10.17#    Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated August 18, 2021, by and between Robert Hudkins and the Registrant
10.18#    Amended and Restated Employment Agreement, dated August 18, 2021, by and between Piyush Patel and the Registrant
10.19    Office Lease, between the Registrant and Fabric 2656 State, LLC, a California limited liability company, as amended by Addendum dated August 5, 2020
10.20#    Form of Indemnification Agreement for Directors and Officers
23.1    Consent of independent registered public accounting firm
23.2*    Consent of Latham & Watkins LLP (included in Exhibit 5.1)
24.1    Power of Attorney (included on signature page)

 

*

To be filed by amendment.

#

Indicates management contract or compensatory plan.

Item 17. Undertakings.

The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to provide to the underwriter, at the closing specified in the underwriting agreement, certificates in such denominations and registered in such names as required by the underwriter to permit prompt delivery to each purchaser.

Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

The undersigned hereby undertakes that:

(1) For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act, the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of this registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a form of prospectus filed by the registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of this registration statement as of the time it was declared effective.

(2) For the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

 

II-5


Table of Contents

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, the registrant has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Carlsbad, State of California, on this 20th day of August, 2021.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

By:

 

/s/ Todd Harris, Ph.D.

 

Todd Harris, Ph.D.

 

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

SIGNATURES

KNOW ALL BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below hereby constitutes and appoints Todd Harris and Esther van den Boom, and each of them, his or her true and lawful agent, proxy and attorney-in-fact, with full power of substitution and resubstitution, for him or her and in his or her name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to (i) act on, sign and file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission any and all amendments (including post-effective amendments) to this registration statement together with all schedules and exhibits thereto and any subsequent registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, together with all schedules and exhibits thereto, (ii) act on, sign and file such certificates, instruments, agreements and other documents as may be necessary or appropriate in connection therewith, (iii) act on and file any supplement to any prospectus included in this registration statement or any such amendment or any subsequent registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and (iv) take any and all actions which may be necessary or appropriate to be done, as fully for all intents and purposes as he might or could do in person, hereby approving, ratifying and confirming all that such agent, proxy and attorney-in-fact or any of his substitutes may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue thereof.

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this registration statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Signature

  

Title

 

Date

/s/ Todd Harris, Ph.D.

Todd Harris, Ph.D.

  

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

(principal executive officer)

  August 20, 2021

/s/ Esther van den Boom

Esther van den Boom

  

Chief Financial Officer

(principal financial and accounting officer)

  August 20, 2021

/s/ Isan Chen, M.D.

Isan Chen, M.D.

   Director   August 20, 2021

/s/ Gilla Kaplan, Ph.D.

Gilla Kaplan, Ph.D.

   Director   August 20, 2021

/s/ Nina Kjellson

Nina Kjellson

   Director   August 20, 2021

/s/ Melissa McCracken, Ph.D.

Melissa McCracken, Ph.D.

   Director   August 20, 2021

/s/ Robert More

Robert More

   Director   August 20, 2021


Table of Contents

Signature

  

Title

 

Date

/s/ Jake Simson, Ph.D.

Jake Simson, Ph.D.

   Director   August 20, 2021

/s/ Siddarth Subramony, Ph.D.

Siddarth Subramony, Ph.D.

   Director   August 20, 2021

/s/ Rehan Verjee

Rehan Verjee

   Director   August 20, 2021
EX-3.1

Exhibit 3.1

AMENDED AND RESTATED

CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

OF

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.


AMENDED AND RESTATED

CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

OF

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

(Pursuant to Sections 242 and 245 of the

General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware)

Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a corporation organized and existing under and by virtue of the provisions of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “General Corporation Law”),

DOES HEREBY CERTIFY:

1. That the name of this corporation is Tyra Biosciences, Inc., and that this corporation was originally incorporated pursuant to the General Corporation Law on August 2, 2018 under the name Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

2. That the Board of Directors duly adopted resolutions proposing to amend and restate the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of this corporation, declaring said amendment and restatement to be advisable and in the best interests of this corporation and its stockholders, and authorizing the appropriate officers of this corporation to solicit the consent of the stockholders therefor, which resolution setting forth the proposed amendment and restatement is as follows:

RESOLVED, that the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of this corporation be amended and restated in its entirety to read as follows:

FIRST: The name of this corporation is Tyra Biosciences, Inc. (the “Corporation”).

SECOND: The address of the registered office of the Corporation in the State of Delaware is 1209 Orange Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801, County of New Castle, and the name of its registered agent at such address is The Corporation Trust Company.

THIRD: The nature of the business or purposes to be conducted or promoted is to engage in any lawful act or activity for which corporations may be organized under the General Corporation Law.

FOURTH: The total number of shares of all classes of stock which the Corporation shall have authority to issue is (i) 12,987,667 shares of Common Stock, $0.0001 par value per share (“Common Stock”) and (ii) 10,097,839 shares of Preferred Stock, $0.0001 par value per share (“Preferred Stock”).

The following is a statement of the designations and the powers, privileges and rights, and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof in respect of each class of capital stock of the Corporation.


A. COMMON STOCK

1. General. The voting, dividend and liquidation rights of the holders of the Common Stock are subject to and qualified by the rights, powers and preferences of the holders of the Preferred Stock set forth herein.

2. Voting. The holders of the Common Stock are entitled to one vote for each share of Common Stock held at all meetings of stockholders (and written actions in lieu of meetings). 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 Amended and Restated 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.

B. PREFERRED STOCK

6,223,046 shares of the authorized and unissued Preferred Stock of the Corporation are hereby designated “Series A Preferred Stock” and 3,874,793 shares of the authorized and unissued Preferred Stock of the Corporation are hereby designated “Series B Preferred Stock” with the following rights, preferences, powers, privileges and restrictions, qualifications and limitations. Unless otherwise indicated, references to “sections” or “subsections” in this Part B of this Article Fourth refer to sections and subsections of Part B of this Article Fourth.

1. Dividends.

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 Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation) the holders of the Preferred Stock then outstanding shall 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 or any class or series that is convertible into Common Stock, that dividend per share of Preferred Stock as would equal the product of (A) the dividend payable on each share of such class or series determined, if applicable, as if all shares of such class or series had been converted into Common Stock and (B) the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of a share of Preferred Stock, in each case calculated on the record date for determination of holders entitled to receive such dividend or (ii) in the case of a dividend on any class or series that is not convertible into Common Stock, at a rate per share of Preferred Stock determined by (A) dividing the amount of the dividend payable on each share of such class or series of capital stock 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) multiplying such fraction by an amount equal to 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. The “Series A Original

 

2


Issue Price” shall mean $8.25 per share, subject to appropriate adjustment in the event of any stock dividend, stock split, combination or other similar recapitalization with respect to the Series A Preferred Stock. The “Series B Original Issue Price” shall mean $27.4337 per share, 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. Each of the Series A Original Issue Price and Series B Original Issue Price will be referred to herein as an “Original Issue Price.”

2. Liquidation, Dissolution or Winding Up; Certain Mergers, Consolidations and Asset Sales.

2.1 Preferential Payments to Holders of Preferred Stock. In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the holders of shares of Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock then outstanding shall be entitled to be paid out of the assets of the Corporation available for distribution to its stockholders or, in the case of a Deemed Liquidation Event (as defined below), out of the consideration payable to stockholders in such Deemed Liquidation Event or the Available Proceeds (as defined below), before any payment shall be made to the holders of Common Stock by reason of their ownership thereof, an amount per share equal to one (1) times the applicable Original Issue Price, plus any dividends declared but unpaid thereon. 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 Subsection 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. The aggregate amount which a holder of a share of Series A Preferred Stock is entitled to receive under this Subsection 2.1 is hereinafter referred to as the “Series A Liquidation Preference.” The aggregate amount which a holder of a share of Series B Preferred Stock is entitled to receive under this Subsection 2.1 is hereinafter referred to as the “Series B Liquidation Preference.” Each of the Series A Liquidation Preference and Series B Liquidation Preference will be referred to herein as a “Liquidation Preference.”

2.2 Distribution of Remaining Assets. In the event of any voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, after the payment in full of the Liquidation Preferences required to be paid to all of the holders of shares of Preferred Stock under Subsection 2.1 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 the shares of Preferred Stock and Common Stock, pro rata based on the number of shares held by each such holder, treating for this purpose all such securities as if they had been converted to Common Stock pursuant to the terms of this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation immediately prior to such liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or Deemed Liquidation Event (as defined below). The aggregate amount which a holder of a share of Series A Preferred Stock is entitled to receive under Subsections 2.1 and 2.2 is hereinafter referred to as the “Series A Liquidation Amount.” The aggregate amount which a holder of a share of Series B Preferred Stock is entitled to receive under Subsections 2.1 and 2.2 is hereinafter referred to as the “Series B Liquidation Amount.”

 

3


Each of the Series A Liquidation Amount and Series B Liquidation Amount will be referred to herein as a “Liquidation Amount.”

2.3 Deemed Liquidation Events.

2.3.1 Definition. Each of the following events shall be considered a “Deemed Liquidation Event” unless the holders of (i) at least sixty percent (60%) of the outstanding shares of Series A Preferred Stock and (ii) at least sixty percent (60%) of the outstanding shares of Series B Preferred Stock (collectively, the “Requisite Holders”) elect otherwise by written notice sent to the Corporation at least five (5) days prior to the effective date of any such event:

(a) a merger or consolidation in which

 

  (i)

the Corporation is a constituent party or

 

  (ii)

a subsidiary of the Corporation is a constituent party and the Corporation issues shares of its capital stock pursuant to such merger or consolidation,

except any such merger or consolidation involving the Corporation or a subsidiary in which the shares of capital stock of the Corporation outstanding immediately prior to such merger or consolidation continue to represent, or are converted into or exchanged for shares of capital stock that represent, immediately following such merger or consolidation, at least a majority, by voting power, of the capital stock of (1) the surviving or resulting corporation; or (2) if the surviving or resulting corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of another corporation immediately following such merger or consolidation, the parent corporation of such surviving or resulting corporation; or

(b) (1) 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 (2) the sale or disposition (whether by merger, consolidation 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.

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 Subsection 2.3.12.3.1(a)(i) unless the agreement or plan of merger or consolidation for such transaction (the “Merger Agreement”) provides that the consideration payable to the stockholders of the Corporation in such Deemed Liquidation Event shall be paid to the holders of capital stock of the Corporation in accordance with Subsections 2.1 and 2.2.

 

4


(b) In the event of a Deemed Liquidation Event referred to in Subsection 2.3.12.3.1(a)(ii) or 2.3.1(b), if the Corporation does not effect a dissolution of the Corporation under the General Corporation Law within ninety (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 ninetieth (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 (iii) if the holders of (x) at least sixty percent (60%) of the then outstanding shares of Series A Preferred Stock and (y) at least sixty percent (60%) of the then outstanding shares of Series B Preferred Stock so request in a written instrument delivered to the Corporation not later than one hundred twenty (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, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Corporation), 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 one hundred fiftieth (150th) day after such Deemed Liquidation Event, to redeem all outstanding shares of Preferred Stock at a price per share equal to the applicable Liquidation Amount. 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 stockholders. Prior to the distribution or redemption provided for in this Subsection 2.3.2(b), the Corporation shall not expend or dissipate the consideration received for such Deemed Liquidation Event, except to discharge expenses incurred in connection with such Deemed Liquidation Event.

2.3.3 Amount Deemed Paid or Distributed. Subject to Subsection 2.3.4, 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 of the Corporation, including the approval of at least four of the Preferred Directors (as defined herein).

2.3.4 Allocation of Escrow and Contingent Consideration. In the event of a Deemed Liquidation Event, if any portion of the consideration payable to the stockholders of the Corporation is payable only upon satisfaction of contingencies (the “Additional Consideration”), the Merger Agreement 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 Subsections 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 Subsections 2.1 and 2.2 after taking into account the previous payment of the Initial Consideration

 

5


as part of the same transaction. For the purposes of this Subsection 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.

3. Voting.

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 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 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 Amended and Restated 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.

3.2 Election of Directors. The holders of record of (i) the shares of Series A Preferred Stock, exclusively and as a separate class, shall be entitled to elect four (4) directors of the Corporation (the “Series A Directors”), (ii) the shares of Series B Preferred Stock, exclusively and as a separate class, shall be entitled to elect one (1) director of the Corporation (the “Series B Director,” and collectively with the Series A Directors, the “Preferred Directors”) and (iii) the shares of Common Stock, exclusively and as a separate class, shall be entitled to elect one (1) director of the Corporation. Any director elected as provided in the preceding sentence may be removed without cause by, and only by, the affirmative vote of the holders of the shares of the class or series of capital stock entitled to elect such director or directors, given either at a special meeting of such stockholders duly called for that purpose or pursuant to a written consent of stockholders. If the holders of shares of Series A Preferred Stock, Series B 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, voting exclusively and as a separate class, pursuant to the first sentence of this Subsection 3.2, then any directorship not so filled shall remain vacant until such time as the holders of the Series A Preferred Stock, Series B Preferred Stock or Common Stock, as the case may be, elect a person to fill such directorship by vote or written consent in lieu of a meeting; and no such directorship may be filled by stockholders of the Corporation other than by the stockholders of the Corporation that are entitled to elect a person to fill such directorship, voting exclusively and as a separate class. 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, shall be entitled to elect the balance of the total number of directors of the Corporation. At any meeting held for the purpose of electing a director, the presence in person or by proxy of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of the class or series entitled to elect such director shall constitute a quorum for the purpose of electing such director. Except as otherwise provided in this Subsection 3.2, a vacancy in any directorship filled by the holders of any class or series shall be filled only by vote or written consent in lieu of a meeting of the holders of such class or series or by any remaining director or directors elected by the holders of such class or series pursuant to this Subsection 3.2.

3.3 Preferred Stock Protective Provisions. At any time when shares of Preferred Stock are outstanding, the Corporation shall not, either directly or indirectly by amendment, merger, consolidation or otherwise, do any of the following without (in addition to

 

6


any other vote required by law or this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation) the written consent or affirmative vote of the Requisite Holders given in writing or by vote at a meeting, consenting or voting (as the case may be) separately as a class, and any such act or transaction entered into without such consent or vote 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, effect any merger or consolidation or any other Deemed Liquidation Event, or consent to any of the foregoing;

3.3.2 amend, alter or repeal any provision of this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws of the Corporation in a manner that adversely affects the powers, preferences or rights of the Series A Preferred Stock or Series B Preferred Stock;

3.3.3 create, or authorize the creation of, or issue or obligate itself to issue shares of, any additional class or series of capital stock unless the same ranks junior to the Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock with respect to the distribution of assets on the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the payment of dividends and rights of redemption, or increase the authorized number of shares of Series A Preferred Stock or Series B Preferred Stock or increase the authorized number of shares of any additional class or series of capital stock of the Corporation unless the same ranks junior to the Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock with respect to the distribution of assets on the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the payment of dividends and rights of redemption;

3.3.4 (i) reclassify, alter or amend any existing security of the Corporation that is pari passu with the Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock in respect of the distribution of assets on the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the payment of dividends or rights of redemption, if such reclassification, alteration or amendment would render such other security senior to the Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock in respect of any such right, preference, or privilege or (ii) reclassify, alter or amend any existing security of the Corporation that is junior to the Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock in respect of the distribution of assets on the liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, the payment of dividends or rights of redemption, if such reclassification, alteration or amendment would render such other security senior to or pari passu with the Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock in respect of any such right, preference or privilege;

3.3.5 cause or permit any of its subsidiaries to, without approval of the Board of Directors, including at least four of the Preferred Directors, 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;

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 Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock as expressly authorized herein, (ii) dividends or other

 

7


distributions payable on the Common Stock solely in the form of additional shares of Common Stock and (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 or (iv) as approved by the Board of Directors, including the approval of at least four of the Preferred Directors;

3.3.7 create, or authorize the creation of, or issue, or authorize the issuance of any debt security or 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 other than equipment leases, bank lines of credit or trade payables incurred in the ordinary course, unless such debt security has received the prior approval of the Board of Directors, including the approval of at least four of the Preferred Directors;

3.3.8 create, or hold capital stock in, any subsidiary that is not wholly owned (either directly or through one or more other subsidiaries) by the Corporation, or permit any subsidiary to create, or authorize the creation of, or issue or obligate itself to issue, any shares of any class or series of capital stock, or sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any capital stock of any direct or indirect subsidiary of the Corporation, or permit any direct or indirect subsidiary to sell, lease, transfer, exclusively license or otherwise dispose (in a single transaction or series of related transactions) of all or substantially all of the assets of such subsidiary; or

3.3.9 increase or decrease the authorized number of directors constituting the Board of Directors.

4. Optional Conversion.

The holders of the Preferred Stock shall have conversion rights as follows (the “Conversion Rights”):

4.1 Right to Convert.

4.1.1 Conversion Ratio. Each share of Preferred Stock shall be convertible, at the option of the holder thereof, at any time and from time to time, and without the payment of additional consideration by the holder thereof, into such number of fully paid and non-assessable shares of Common Stock 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 “Series A Conversion Price” shall initially be equal to $8.25. The “Series B Conversion Price” shall initially be equal to $27.4337. The Series A Conversion Price and Series B Conversion Price will each be referred to herein as a “Conversion Price”. Each initial Conversion Price, and the rate at which shares of a series Preferred Stock may be converted into shares of Common Stock, shall be subject to adjustment as provided below.

4.1.2 Termination of Conversion Rights. In the event of a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation or a Deemed Liquidation Event, the

 

8


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.

4.2 Fractional Shares. No fractional shares of Common Stock shall be issued upon conversion of the Preferred Stock. In lieu of any fractional shares to which the holder would otherwise be entitled, the Corporation shall pay cash equal to such fraction multiplied by the fair market value of a share of Common Stock as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Corporation. Whether or not fractional shares would be issuable upon such conversion shall be determined on the basis of the total number of shares of Preferred Stock the holder is at the time converting into Common Stock and the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon such conversion.

4.3 Mechanics of Conversion.

4.3.1 Notice of Conversion. 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’s transfer agent at the office of the transfer agent for the Preferred Stock (or at the principal office of the Corporation if the Corporation serves as its own transfer agent) 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, surrender the certificate or certificates for such shares of Preferred Stock (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), at the office of the transfer agent for the Preferred Stock (or at the principal office of the Corporation if the Corporation serves as its own transfer agent). Such notice shall state such holder’s name or the names of the nominees in which such holder wishes the shares of Common Stock to be issued. If required by the Corporation, any certificates surrendered for conversion shall be endorsed or accompanied by a written instrument or instruments of transfer, in form satisfactory to the Corporation, duly executed by the registered holder or his, her or its attorney duly authorized in writing. The close of business on the date of receipt by the transfer agent (or by the Corporation if the Corporation serves as its own transfer agent) of such notice and, if applicable, certificates (or lost certificate affidavit and agreement) shall be the time of conversion (the “Conversion Time”), and the shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of the specified shares shall be deemed to be outstanding of record as of such date. The Corporation shall, as soon as practicable after the Conversion Time (i) 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 a certificate for the number (if any) of the shares of Preferred Stock represented by the surrendered certificate that were not converted into Common Stock, (ii) pay in cash such amount as provided in Subsection 4.2 in lieu of any fraction of a share of Common Stock otherwise issuable upon such conversion and (iii) pay all declared but unpaid dividends on the shares of Preferred Stock converted.

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

 

9


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 Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation. Before taking any action which would cause an adjustment reducing an applicable Conversion Price below the then par value of the shares of Common Stock issuable upon conversion of a 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.

4.3.3 Effect of Conversion. 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, to receive payment in lieu of any fraction of a share otherwise issuable upon such conversion as provided in Subsection 4.2 and to receive payment of any dividends declared but unpaid thereon. Any shares of Preferred Stock so converted shall be retired and cancelled and may not be reissued as shares of such series, and 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.

4.3.4 No Further Adjustment. Upon any such conversion, no adjustment to an applicable Conversion Price shall be made for any declared but unpaid dividends on the Preferred Stock surrendered for conversion or on the Common Stock delivered upon conversion.

4.3.5 Taxes. 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.

4.4 Adjustments to Conversion Price for Diluting Issues.

4.4.1 Special Definitions. For purposes of this Article Fourth, the following definitions shall apply:

(a) “Option” shall mean rights, options or warrants to subscribe for, purchase or otherwise acquire Common Stock or Convertible Securities.

(b) “Series B Original Issue Date” shall mean the date on which the first share of Series B Preferred Stock was issued.

 

10


(c) “Convertible Securities” shall mean any evidences of indebtedness, shares or other securities directly or indirectly convertible into or exchangeable for Common Stock, but excluding Options.

(d) “Additional Shares of Common Stock” shall mean all shares of Common Stock issued (or, pursuant to Subsection 4.4.3 below, deemed to be issued) by the Corporation after the Series B Original Issue Date, 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”):

 

  (i)

shares of Common Stock, Options or Convertible Securities issued as a dividend or distribution on Preferred Stock;

 

  (ii)

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 Subsection 4.5, 4.6, 4.7 or 4.8;

 

  (iii)

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 by the Board of Directors of the Corporation, including the approval of at least four of the Preferred Directors;

 

  (iv)

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;

 

  (v)

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 Board of Directors of the Corporation, including the approval of at least four of the Preferred Directors;

 

  (vi)

shares of Common Stock, Options or Convertible Securities issued to suppliers or

 

11


  third party service providers in connection with the provision of goods or services pursuant to transactions approved by the Board of Directors of the Corporation, including the approval of at least four of the Preferred Directors;

 

  (vii)

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 Board of Directors of the Corporation, including at least four of the Preferred Directors; or

 

  (viii)

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 Board of Directors of the Corporation, including the approval of at least four of the Preferred Directors.

4.4.2 No Adjustment of Conversion Price. No adjustment to the Series A Conversion Price 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 sixty percent (60%) of the then outstanding Series A 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. No adjustment to the Series B Conversion Price 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 a majority of the then outstanding Series B 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.

4.4.3 Deemed Issue of Additional Shares of Common Stock.

(a) If the Corporation at any time or from time to time after the Series B 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

 

12


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.

(b) If the terms of any Option or Convertible Security, the issuance of which resulted in an adjustment to an applicable Conversion Price pursuant to the terms of Subsection 4.4.4, are revised as a result of an amendment to such terms or any other adjustment pursuant to the provisions of such Option or Convertible Security (but excluding automatic adjustments to such terms pursuant to anti-dilution or similar provisions of such Option or Convertible Security) to provide for either (1) any increase or decrease in the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise, conversion and/or exchange of any such Option or Convertible Security or (2) any increase or decrease in the consideration payable to the Corporation upon such exercise, conversion and/or exchange, then, effective upon such increase or decrease becoming effective, an applicable Conversion Price computed upon the original issue of such Option or Convertible Security (or upon the occurrence of a record date with respect thereto) shall be readjusted to such applicable Conversion Price as would have obtained had such revised terms been in effect upon the original date of issuance of such Option or Convertible Security. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no readjustment pursuant to this clause (b) shall have the effect of increasing an applicable Conversion Price to an amount which exceeds the lower of (i) the applicable Conversion Price in effect immediately prior to the original adjustment made as a result of the issuance of such Option or Convertible Security, or (ii) the applicable Conversion Price that would have resulted from any issuances of Additional Shares of Common Stock (other than deemed issuances of Additional Shares of Common Stock as a result of the issuance of such Option or Convertible Security) between the original adjustment date and such readjustment date.

(c) If the terms of any Option or Convertible Security (excluding Options or Convertible Securities which are themselves Exempted Securities), the issuance of which did not result in an adjustment to an applicable Conversion Price pursuant to the terms of Subsection 4.4.4 (either because the consideration per share (determined pursuant to Subsection 4.4.5) of the Additional Shares of Common Stock subject thereto was equal to or greater than an applicable Conversion Price then in effect, or because such Option or Convertible Security was issued before the Series B Original Issue Date), are revised after the Series B Original Issue Date as a result of an amendment to such terms or any other adjustment pursuant to the provisions of such Option or Convertible Security (but excluding automatic adjustments to such terms pursuant to anti-dilution or similar provisions of such Option or Convertible Security) to provide for either (1) any increase in the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise, conversion or exchange of any such Option or Convertible Security or (2) any decrease in the consideration payable to the Corporation upon such exercise, conversion or exchange, then such Option or Convertible Security, as so amended or adjusted, and the Additional Shares of Common Stock subject thereto (determined in the manner provided in Subsection 4.4.3(a)shall be deemed to have been issued effective upon such increase or decrease becoming effective.

(d) Upon the expiration or termination of any unexercised Option or unconverted or unexchanged Convertible Security (or portion thereof) which resulted (either upon its original issuance or upon a revision of its terms) in an adjustment to an applicable Conversion Price pursuant to the terms of Subsection 4.4.4, the applicable

 

13


Conversion Price shall be readjusted to such applicable Conversion Price as would have obtained had such Option or Convertible Security (or portion thereof) never been issued.

(e) If the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise, conversion and/or exchange of any Option or Convertible Security, or the consideration payable to the Corporation upon such exercise, conversion and/or exchange, is calculable at the time such Option or Convertible Security is issued or amended but is subject to adjustment based upon subsequent events, any adjustment to an applicable Conversion Price provided for in this Subsection 4.4.3 shall be effected at the time of such issuance or amendment based on such number of shares or amount of consideration without regard to any provisions for subsequent adjustments (and any subsequent adjustments shall be treated as provided in clauses (b) and (c) of this Subsection 4.4.3). If the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise, conversion and/or exchange of any Option or Convertible Security, or the consideration payable to the Corporation upon such exercise, conversion and/or exchange, cannot be calculated at all at the time such Option or Convertible Security is issued or amended, any adjustment to an applicable Conversion Price that would result under the terms of this Subsection 4.4.3 at the time of such issuance or amendment shall instead be effected at the time such number of shares and/or amount of consideration is first calculable (even if subject to subsequent adjustments), assuming for purposes of calculating such adjustment to an applicable Conversion Price that such issuance or amendment took place at the time such calculation can first be made.

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 Series B Original Issue Date issue Additional Shares of Common Stock (including Additional Shares of Common Stock deemed to be issued pursuant to Subsection 4.4.3), without consideration or for a consideration per share less than an applicable Conversion Price in effect immediately prior to such issuance or deemed issuance, then such applicable Conversion Price 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:

CP2 = CP1* (A + B) ÷ (A + C).

For purposes of the foregoing formula, the following definitions shall apply:

(a) “CP2” shall mean the applicable Conversion Price in effect immediately after such issuance or deemed issuance of Additional Shares of Common Stock

(b) “CP1” shall mean the applicable Conversion Price 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);

 

14


(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 CP1 (determined by dividing the aggregate consideration received by the Corporation in respect of such issue by CP1); and

(e) “C” shall mean the number of such Additional Shares of Common Stock issued in such transaction.

4.4.5 Determination of Consideration. For purposes of this Subsection 4.4, the consideration received by the Corporation for the issuance or deemed issuance of any Additional Shares of Common Stock shall be computed as follows:

(a) Cash and Property: Such consideration shall:

 

  (i)

insofar as it consists of cash, be computed at the aggregate amount of cash received by the Corporation, excluding amounts paid or payable for accrued interest;

 

  (ii)

insofar as it consists of property other than cash, be computed at the fair market value thereof at the time of such issue, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Corporation; and

 

  (iii)

in the event Additional Shares of Common Stock are issued together with other shares or securities or other assets of the Corporation for consideration which covers both, be the proportion of such consideration so received, computed as provided in clauses (i) and (ii) above, as determined in good faith by the Board of Directors of the Corporation.

(b) Options and Convertible Securities. The consideration per share received by the Corporation for Additional Shares of Common Stock deemed to have been issued pursuant to Subsection 4.4.3, relating to Options and Convertible Securities, shall be determined by dividing:

 

  (i)

The total amount, if any, received or receivable by the Corporation as consideration for the issue of such Options or Convertible Securities, plus the minimum aggregate amount of additional consideration (as set forth in the instruments relating thereto, without regard to any provision contained therein for a subsequent adjustment of such consideration) payable to the Corporation upon the exercise of such

 

15


  Options or the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities, or in the case of Options for Convertible Securities, the exercise of such Options for Convertible Securities and the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities, by

 

  (ii)

the maximum number of shares of Common Stock (as set forth in the instruments relating thereto, without regard to any provision contained therein for a subsequent adjustment of such number) issuable upon the exercise of such Options or the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities, or in the case of Options for Convertible Securities, the exercise of such Options for Convertible Securities and the conversion or exchange of such Convertible Securities.

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 an applicable Conversion Price pursuant to the terms of Subsection 4.4.4, and such issuance dates occur within a period of no more than sixty (60) days from the first such issuance to the final such issuance, then, upon the final such issuance, such applicable Conversion Price 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).

4.5 Adjustment for Stock Splits and Combinations. If the Corporation shall at any time or from time to time after the Series B Original Issue Date effect a subdivision of the outstanding Common Stock, an applicable Conversion Price 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 Series B Original Issue Date combine the outstanding shares of Common Stock, an applicable Conversion Price 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 subsection 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 Series B 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 applicable Conversion Price in effect immediately before

 

16


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 applicable Conversion Price 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 applicable Conversion Price shall be recomputed accordingly as of the close of business on such record date and thereafter the applicable Conversion Price shall be adjusted pursuant to this subsection as of the time of actual payment of such dividends or distributions; and (b) that no such adjustment shall be made if the holders of such series 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.

4.7 Adjustments for Other Dividends and Distributions. In the event the Corporation at any time or from time to time after the Series B 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 such series 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 such series 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 Subsection 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 Subsections 4.4, 4.6 or 4.7), then, following any such reorganization, recapitalization, reclassification, consolidation or merger, each share of a series 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 series of 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 of the Corporation) 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

 

17


Stock, to the end that the provisions set forth in this Section 4 (including provisions with respect to changes in and other adjustments of an applicable Conversion Price) shall thereafter be applicable, as nearly as reasonably may be, in relation to any securities or other property thereafter deliverable upon the conversion of such series of Preferred Stock.

4.9 Certificate as to Adjustments. Upon the occurrence of each adjustment or readjustment of an applicable Conversion Price pursuant to this Section 4, the Corporation at its expense shall, as promptly as reasonably practicable but in any event not later than ten (10) 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 ten (10) days thereafter), furnish or cause to be furnished to such holder a certificate setting forth (i) the applicable Conversion Price then in effect, 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 such series of Preferred Stock.

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 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 ten (10) days prior to the record date or effective date for the event specified in such notice.

 

18


5. Mandatory Conversion.

5.1 Trigger Events. Upon either (a) the closing of the sale of shares of Common Stock to the public 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 $75,000,000 of gross proceeds (prior to underwriter commissions and discounts) to the Corporation and in connection with such offering the Common Stock is listed for trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market’s National Market, the New York Stock Exchange or another exchange or marketplace approved by the Board of Directors, including the approval of at least four of the Preferred Directors or (b) the date and time, or the occurrence of an event, specified by vote or written consent of the Requisite Holders (the time of such closing or the date and time specified or the time of the event specified in such vote or written consent is referred to herein as the “Mandatory Conversion Time”), then (i) 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 Subsection 4.1.1. and (ii) such shares may not be reissued by the Corporation.

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 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 Subsection 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 Subsection 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 and (b) pay cash as provided in Subsection 4.2 in lieu of any fraction of a share of Common Stock otherwise issuable upon such conversion and the payment of any declared but unpaid dividends on the shares of Preferred Stock converted. Such converted Preferred Stock shall be retired and cancelled and may not be reissued as shares of such series, and 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.

 

19


6. Redeemed or Otherwise Acquired Shares. Any shares of Preferred Stock that are redeemed 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.

7. Waiver. Any of the rights, powers, preferences and other terms of the Series A Preferred Stock set forth herein may only be waived on behalf of all holders of Series A Preferred Stock by the affirmative written consent or vote of the holders of at least sixty percent (60%) of the shares of Series A Preferred Stock then outstanding. Any of the rights, powers, preferences and other terms of the Series B Preferred Stock set forth herein may only be waived on behalf of all holders of Series B Preferred Stock by the affirmative written consent or vote of the holders of at least sixty percent (60%) of the shares of Series B Preferred Stock then outstanding.

8. 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 communication in compliance with the provisions of the General Corporation Law, and shall be deemed sent upon such mailing or electronic transmission.

FIFTH: Subject to any additional vote required by this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws, 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 Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, the number of directors of the Corporation shall be determined in the manner set forth in the Bylaws of the Corporation.

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 without the State of Delaware, as the Bylaws of the Corporation may provide. The books of the Corporation may be kept outside the State of Delaware at such place or places as may be designated from time to time by the Board of Directors or in the Bylaws of the Corporation.

NINTH: To the fullest extent permitted by law, a director 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. 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, then the liability of a director of the Corporation shall be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by the General Corporation Law as so amended.

Any repeal or modification of the foregoing provisions of this Article Ninth by the stockholders of the Corporation shall not adversely affect any right or protection of a director of the Corporation existing at the time of, or increase the liability of any director of the

 

20


Corporation with respect to any acts or omissions of such director occurring prior to, such repeal or modification.

TENTH: The following indemnification provisions shall apply to the persons enumerated below.

1. Right to Indemnification of Directors and Officers. The Corporation shall indemnify and hold harmless, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law as it presently exists or may hereafter be amended, any person (an “Indemnified Person”) who was or is made or is threatened to be made a party or is otherwise involved in any action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (a “Proceeding”), by reason of the fact that such person, or a person for whom such person is the legal representative, is or was a director or officer of the Corporation or, while a director or officer of the Corporation, is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation or of a partnership, joint venture, limited liability company, trust, enterprise or nonprofit entity, including service with respect to employee benefit plans, against all liability and loss suffered and expenses (including attorneys’ fees) reasonably incurred by such Indemnified Person in such Proceeding. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, except as otherwise provided in Section 3 of this Article Tenth the Corporation shall be required to indemnify an Indemnified Person in connection with a Proceeding (or part thereof) commenced by such Indemnified Person only if the commencement of such Proceeding (or part thereof) by the Indemnified Person was authorized in advance by the Board of Directors.

2. Prepayment of Expenses of Directors and Officers. The Corporation shall pay the expenses (including attorneys’ fees) incurred by an Indemnified Person in defending any Proceeding in advance of its final disposition, provided, however, that, to the extent required by law, such payment of expenses in advance of the final disposition of the Proceeding shall be made only upon receipt of an undertaking by the Indemnified Person to repay all amounts advanced if it should be ultimately determined that the Indemnified Person is not entitled to be indemnified under this Article Tenth or otherwise.

3. Claims by Directors and Officers. If a claim for indemnification or advancement of expenses under this Article Tenth is not paid in full within thirty (30) days after a written claim therefor by the Indemnified Person has been received by the Corporation, the Indemnified Person may file suit to recover the unpaid amount of such claim and, if successful in whole or in part, shall be entitled to be paid the expense of prosecuting such claim. In any such action the Corporation shall have the burden of proving that the Indemnified Person is not entitled to the requested indemnification or advancement of expenses under applicable law.

4. Indemnification of Employees and Agents. The Corporation may indemnify and advance expenses to any person who was or is made or is threatened to be made or is otherwise involved in any Proceeding by reason of the fact that such person, or a person for whom such person is the legal representative, is or was an employee or agent of the Corporation or, while an employee or agent of the Corporation, is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation or of a partnership, joint venture, limited liability company, trust, enterprise or nonprofit entity, including service with respect to employee benefit plans, against all liability and loss suffered

 

21


and expenses (including attorneys’ fees) reasonably incurred by such person in connection with such Proceeding. The ultimate determination of entitlement to indemnification of persons who are non-director or officer employees or agents shall be made in such manner as is determined by the Board of Directors in its sole discretion. Notwithstanding the foregoing sentence, the Corporation shall not be required to indemnify a person in connection with a Proceeding initiated by such person if the Proceeding was not authorized in advance by the Board of Directors.

5. Advancement of Expenses of Employees and Agents. The Corporation may pay the expenses (including attorneys’ fees) incurred by an employee or agent in defending any Proceeding in advance of its final disposition on such terms and conditions as may be determined by the Board of Directors.

6. Non-Exclusivity of Rights. The rights conferred on any person by this Article Tenth shall not be exclusive of any other rights which such person may have or hereafter acquire under any statute, provision of this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, the Bylaws of the Corporation, or any agreement, or pursuant to any vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise.

7. Other Indemnification. The Corporation’s obligation, if any, to indemnify any person who was or is serving at its request as a director, officer or employee of another Corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, organization or other enterprise shall be reduced by any amount such person may collect as indemnification from such other Corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust, organization or other enterprise.

8. Insurance. The Board of Directors may, to the full extent permitted by applicable law as it presently exists, or may hereafter be amended from time to time, authorize an appropriate officer or officers to purchase and maintain at the Corporation’s expense insurance: (a) to indemnify the Corporation for any obligation which it incurs as a result of the indemnification of directors, officers and employees under the provisions of this Article Tenth; and (b) to indemnify or insure directors, officers and employees against liability in instances in which they may not otherwise be indemnified by the Corporation under the provisions of this Article Tenth.

9. Amendment or Repeal. Any amendment, repeal or modification of the foregoing provisions of this Article Tenth shall not adversely affect any right or protection hereunder of any person in respect of any act or omission occurring prior to the time of such repeal or modification. The rights provided hereunder shall inure to the benefit of any Indemnified Person and such person’s heirs, executors and administrators.

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 employee of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries

 

22


(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 Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, the affirmative vote of the holders of (i) at least sixty percent (60%) of the shares of Series A Preferred Stock then outstanding and (ii) at least sixty percent (60%) of the shares of Series B Preferred Stock the outstanding, will be required to amend or repeal, or to adopt any provisions inconsistent with this Article Eleventh.

TWELFTH: 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 Delaware 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, 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 ten 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. If any provision or provisions of this Article Twelfth shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable as applied to any person or entity or circumstance for any reason whatsoever, then, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the validity, legality and enforceability of such provisions in any other circumstance and of the remaining provisions of this Article Twelfth (including, without limitation, each portion of any sentence of this Article Twelfth containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable that is not itself held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable) and the application of such provision to other persons or entities and circumstances shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby.

THIRTEENTH: 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 Amended and Restated 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 Amended and Restated 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

 

23


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 (0).

*    *    *

3. That the foregoing amendment and restatement was approved by the holders of the requisite number of shares of this corporation in accordance with Section 228 of the General Corporation Law.

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

 

24


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation has been executed by a duly authorized officer of this corporation on this 5th day of March, 2021.

 

By:   /s/ Todd Harris
Name: Todd Harris
Title: Chief Executive Officer & President
EX-3.2

Exhibit 3.2

 

 

 

BYLAWS

OF

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

(A DELAWARE CORPORATION)

Dated as of August 2, 2018

 

 

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

              Page  

ARTICLE I STOCKHOLDERS’ ACTIONS

     1  

        

  Section 1.1   

Place of Meetings

     1  
  Section 1.2   

Annual Meeting

     1  
  Section 1.3   

Special Meetings

     2  
  Section 1.4   

Notice of Meetings

     2  
  Section 1.5   

Adjournment and Notice of Adjourned Meetings

     2  
  Section 1.6   

Record Date

     2  
  Section 1.7   

Quorum

     3  
  Section 1.8   

Voting

     3  
  Section 1.9   

List of Stockholders

     4  
  Section 1.10   

Action Without Meeting

     4  
  Section 1.11   

Organization

     5  

ARTICLE II DIRECTORS

     6  
  Section 2.1   

Powers

     6  
  Section 2.2   

Number and Qualifications

     6  
  Section 2.3   

Term of Office

     6  
  Section 2.4   

Resignation

     6  
  Section 2.5   

Removal

     6  
  Section 2.6   

Vacancies

     6  
  Section 2.7   

Meetings

     6  
  Section 2.8   

Quorum and Voting

     7  
  Section 2.9   

Action Without Meeting

     7  
  Section 2.10   

Committees

     7  
  Section 2.11   

Chairman of the Board; Vice Chairman of the Board

     8  
  Section 2.12   

Fees and Compensation

     9  

ARTICLE III OFFICERS

     9  
  Section 3.1   

Officers Designated

     9  
  Section 3.2   

Tenure of Officers

     9  
  Section 3.3   

Duties of Officers

     9  
  Section 3.4   

Execution of Corporate Instruments

     10  
  Section 3.5   

Voting of Securities Owned by the Company

     10  
  Section 3.6   

Salaries

     11  
  Section 3.7   

Loans

     11  
  Section 3.8   

Delegation of Authority

     11  

ARTICLE IV SHARES OF STOCK

     11  
  Section 4.1   

Form and Execution of Certificates

     11  

 

i


TABLE OF CONTENTS

(Continued)

 

              Page  
  Section 4.2   

Lost Certificates

     11  

ARTICLE V TRANSFERS OF SHARES

     12  

        

  Section 5.1   

Transfers

     12  
  Section 5.2   

Registered Stockholders

     12  
  Section 5.3   

Notice of Transfer

     12  
  Section 5.4   

Consent of Company

     12  
  Section 5.5   

Right of First Refusal

     13  
  Section 5.6   

Effect of a Permitted Transfer

     13  
  Section 5.7   

Exceptions to Transfer Restrictions

     14  
  Section 5.8   

Waiver

     14  
  Section 5.9   

Legends

     14  
  Section 5.10   

Non-Compliant Transfers

     14  
  Section 5.11   

Termination of Transfer Restrictions

     14  

ARTICLE VI DIVIDENDS

     15  
  Section 6.1   

Declaration of Dividends

     15  
  Section 6.2   

Dividend Reserve

     15  
  Section 6.3   

Record Date

     15  

ARTICLE VII INDEMNIFICATION

     15  
  Section 7.1   

Indemnification of Directors, Officers, Employees and Other Agents

     15  
  Section 7.2   

Advancement of Expenses

     16  
  Section 7.3   

Enforcement

     16  
  Section 7.4   

Non-Exclusivity of Rights

     17  
  Section 7.5   

Survival of Rights

     17  
  Section 7.6   

Insurance

     17  
  Section 7.7   

Effect of Amendments

     17  
  Section 7.8   

Saving Clause

     17  

ARTICLE VIII NOTICES

     18  
  Section 8.1   

Notices to Stockholders

     18  
  Section 8.2   

Notices to Directors

     18  
  Section 8.3   

Methods of Notice

     18  
  Section 8.4   

Notices to Person with Whom Communication Is Unlawful

     18  

ARTICLE IX MISCELLANEOUS

     18  
  Section 9.1   

Fiscal Year

     18  

 

ii


TABLE OF CONTENTS

(Continued)

 

 

                     Page  
  Section 9.2   

Corporate Seal

     18  
  Section 9.3   

Annual Report

     18  
  Section 9.4   

Amendments

     19  

 

iii


BYLAWS

OF

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

(A DELAWARE CORPORATION)

ARTICLE I

STOCKHOLDERS’ ACTIONS

Section 1.1 Place of Meetings. Meetings of the stockholders of Tyra Biosciences, Inc. (the “Company”) may be held at any place as may be determined from time to time by the board of directors of the Company (the “Board”). The Board may, in its sole discretion, determine that any such meeting shall be held solely by means of remote communication as provided under the Delaware General Corporation Law (“DGCL”).

Section 1.2 Annual Meeting.

(a) The annual meeting of the stockholders of the Company, for the purpose of the election of directors and for such other business as may lawfully come before it, shall be held on such date and at such time as may be designated from time to time by the Board; provided that the Company shall not be required to hold an annual meeting of the stockholders if the stockholders take action by written consent in accordance with Section 1.10 to elect directors.

(b) At an annual meeting of the stockholders, only such business shall be conducted as shall have been properly brought before the meeting. For nominations or other business to be properly brought before an annual meeting by a stockholder, (i) such stockholder must have given timely notice thereof in writing to the Secretary of the Company and (ii) such other business must be a proper matter for stockholder action under the DGCL. To be timely, a stockholder’s notice shall be delivered to the Secretary at the principal executive offices of the Company not later than the close of business on the tenth (10th) day following the day on which notice of such meeting is first given. Such stockholder’s notice shall set forth (A) as to each person whom the stockholder proposed to nominate for election or reelection as a director, such person’s name and qualifications to serve as a director of the Company, (B) as to any other business that the stockholder proposes to bring before the meeting, a brief description of the business desired to be brought before the meeting, the reasons for conducting such business at the meeting and any material interest in such business of such stockholder and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the proposal is made and (C) as to the stockholder giving the notice and the beneficial owner, if any, on whose behalf the nomination or proposal is made (x) the name and address of such stockholder, as they appear on the Company’s books, and of such beneficial owner, and (y) the class and number of shares of the Company which are owned beneficially and of record by such stockholder and such beneficial owner.

(c) Only such persons who are nominated in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 1.2 shall be eligible to serve as directors and only such business shall be conducted at a meeting of stockholders as shall have been brought before the meeting in accordance with the procedures set forth in this Section 1.2. Except as otherwise provided by


law, the Chairman of the meeting shall have the power and duty to determine whether a nomination or any business proposed to be brought before the meeting was made, or proposed, as the case may be, in accordance with the procedures set forth in these Bylaws and, if any proposed nomination or business is not in compliance with these Bylaws, to declare that such defective proposal or nomination shall not be presented for stockholder action at the meeting and shall be disregarded.

Section 1.3 Special Meetings. Special meetings of the stockholders of the Company may be called, for any purpose or purposes, by the Chief Executive Officer or the Board.

Section 1.4 Notice of Meetings. Except as otherwise provided by law, notice, given in writing or by electronic transmission, of each meeting of stockholders shall be given not less than ten (10) nor more than sixty (60) days before the date of the meeting to each stockholder entitled to vote at such meeting, such notice to specify the place, if any, date and hour, in the case of special meetings, the purpose or purposes of the meeting, and the means of remote communications, if any, by which stockholders and proxyholders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at any such meeting. If mailed, notice is given when deposited in the United States mail, postage prepaid, directed to the stockholder at such stockholder’s address as it appears on the records of the Company. Notice of the time, place, if any, and purpose of any meeting of stockholders may be waived in writing, signed by the person entitled to notice thereof or by electronic transmission by such person, either before or after such meeting, and will be waived by any stockholder by his presence in person, by remote communication, if applicable, or by proxy, except when the stockholder attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting, at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. Any stockholder so waiving notice of such meeting shall be bound by the proceedings of any such meeting in all respects as if due notice thereof had been given.

Section 1.5 Adjournment and Notice of Adjourned Meetings. Any meeting of stockholders, whether annual or special, may be adjourned from time to time either by the chairman of the meeting or by the vote of a majority of the shares present in person, by remote communication, if applicable, or represented by proxy. When a meeting is adjourned to another time or place, if any, notice need not be given of the adjourned meeting if the time and place, if any, thereof are announced at the meeting at which the adjournment is taken. At the adjourned meeting, the Company may transact any business which might have been transacted at the original meeting. If the adjournment is for more than thirty (30) days or, if after the adjournment, a new record date is fixed for the adjourned meeting, a notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the meeting.

Section 1.6 Record Date. In order that the Company may determine the stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholders or any adjournment thereof, the Board may fix, in advance, a record date, which record date shall not precede the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted by the Board, and which record date shall, subject to applicable law, not be less than ten (10) nor more than sixty (60) days before the date of such meeting. If no record date is fixed by the Board, the record date for determining stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall be at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which notice is given, or if notice is waived, at the close of business on the day preceding the day on which the meeting is held. A determination of

 

2


stockholders of record entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall apply to any adjournment of the meeting; provided, however, that the Board may fix a new record date for the adjourned meeting.

Section 1.7 Quorum. At all meetings of stockholders, except where otherwise provided by statute or by the Certificate of Incorporation, or by these Bylaws, the presence in person, by remote communication, if applicable, or by proxy duly authorized, of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of stock entitled to vote shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. In the absence of a quorum, any meeting of stockholders may be adjourned, from time to time, either by the chairman of the meeting or by vote of the holders of a majority of the shares represented thereat, but no other business shall be transacted at such meeting. The stockholders present at a duly called or convened meeting, at which a quorum is present, may continue to transact business until adjournment, notwithstanding the withdrawal of enough stockholders to leave less than a quorum. Where a separate vote by a class or classes or series is required, except where otherwise provided by the statute or by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, a majority of the outstanding shares of such class or classes or series, present in person, by remote communication, if applicable, or represented by proxy duly authorized, shall constitute a quorum entitled to take action with respect to that vote on that matter.

Section 1.8 Voting.

(a) Entitlement to Vote. For the purpose of determining those stockholders entitled to vote at any meeting of the stockholders, except as otherwise provided by law, including Section 217 of the DGCL (relating to voting rights of fiduciaries, pledgers and joint owners of stock) and Section 218 of the DGCL (relating to voting trusts and other voting agreements), only persons in whose names shares stand on the stock records of the Company on the record date, as provided in Section 1.6, shall be entitled to vote at any meeting of stockholders. Every person entitled to vote or execute consents shall have the right to do so either in person, by remote communication, if applicable, or by a proxy duly authorized. A proxy so authorized need not be a stockholder. No proxy shall be voted after three years from its date of creation unless the proxy provides for a longer period.

(b) Required Vote. Except as otherwise provided by statute, or by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, in all matters other than the election of directors, the affirmative vote of a majority of shares present in person, by remote communication, if applicable, or represented by proxy duly authorized at the meeting and entitled to vote generally on the subject matter shall be the act of the stockholders. Except as otherwise provided by statute, or by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, directors shall be elected by a plurality of the votes of the shares present in person, by remote communication, if applicable, or represented by proxy duly authorized at the meeting and entitled to vote generally on the election of directors. Where a separate vote by a class or classes or series is required, except where otherwise provided by statute, or by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, the affirmative vote of the majority (or plurality, in the case of the election of directors) of shares of such class or classes or series present in person, by remote communication, if applicable, or by proxy duly authorized at the meeting shall be the act of such class or classes or series.

 

3


Section 1.9 List of Stockholders. The Secretary shall prepare and make, at least ten (10) days before every meeting of stockholders, a complete list of the stockholders entitled to vote at such meeting, arranged in alphabetical order, showing the address of each stockholder and the number of shares registered in the name of each stockholder. Such list shall be open to the examination of any stockholder, for any purpose germane to the meeting during ordinary business hours, at the principal place of business of the Company or on a reasonably accessible electronic network. In the event that the Company determines to make the list available on an electronic network, information required to gain access to such list shall be provided with the notice of the meeting; provided, however, that the Company may take reasonable steps to ensure that such information is available only to stockholders of the Company. The list shall be open to examination of any stockholder during the time of the meeting as provided by law.

Section 1.10 Action Without Meeting.

(a) Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, any action required or permitted to be taken at any annual or special meeting of the stockholders may be taken without a meeting, without prior notice and without a vote, if a consent in writing or by electronic transmission setting forth the action so taken, shall be signed by the holders of outstanding stock having not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting at which all shares entitled to vote thereon were present and voted.

(b) Every written consent or electronic transmission shall bear the date of signature of each stockholder who signs the consent, and no written consent or electronic transmission shall be effective to take the corporate action referred to therein unless, within sixty (60) days of the earliest dated consent delivered to the Company in the manner herein required, written consents or electronic transmissions signed by a sufficient number of stockholders to take action are delivered to the Company by delivery to its registered office in the State of Delaware, its principal place of business or an officer or agent of the Company having custody of the book in which proceedings of meetings of stockholders are recorded. Any person executing a consent may provide, whether through instruction to an agent or otherwise, that such a consent will be effective at a future time (including a time determined upon the happening of an event), no later than sixty (60) days after such instruction is given or such provision is made, if evidence of such instruction or provision is provided to the Company, and unless otherwise provided, any such consent shall be revocable prior to its becoming effective. Delivery made to a Company’s registered office shall be by hand or by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested. Any copy, facsimile or other reliable reproduction of a consent in writing may be substituted or used in lieu of the original writing for any and all purposes for which the original writing could be used, provided that such copy, facsimile or other reproduction shall be a complete reproduction of the entire original consent.

(c) Prompt notice of the taking of the corporate action without a meeting by less than unanimous written consent shall be given to those stockholders who have not consented in writing or by electronic transmission and who, if the action had been taken at a meeting, would have been entitled to notice of the meeting if the record date for such meeting had been the date that written consents signed by a sufficient number of stockholders to take action were delivered to the Company as provided in Section 228(c) of the DGCL. If the action which is

 

4


consented to is such as would have required the filing of a certificate under any section of the DGCL if such action had been voted on by stockholders at a meeting thereof, then the certificate filed under such section shall state, in lieu of any statement required by such section concerning any vote of stockholders, that written consent has been given in accordance with Section 228 of the DGCL.

(d) An electronic transmission consenting to an action to be taken and transmitted by a stockholder or proxyholder shall be deemed to be written, signed and dated for the purposes of this section, provided that any such electronic transmission sets forth or is delivered with information from which the Company can determine (i) that the electronic transmission was transmitted by the stockholder or proxyholder or by a person or persons authorized to act for the stockholder and (ii) the date on which such stockholder or proxyholder or authorized person or persons transmitted such electronic transmission. The date on which such electronic transmission is transmitted shall be deemed to be the date on which such consent was signed. Notwithstanding the foregoing limitations on delivery, consents given by electronic transmission may be otherwise delivered to the principal place of business of the Company or to an officer or agent of the Company having custody of the book in which proceedings of meetings of stockholders are recorded if, to the extent and in the manner provided by resolution of the Board.

(e) Any stockholder of record seeking to have the stockholders authorize or take corporate action by written consent shall, by written notice to the Secretary, request the Board to fix a record date. The Board shall promptly, but in all events within ten (10) days after the date on which such a request is received, adopt a resolution fixing the record date. If no record date has been fixed by the Board within ten (10) days of the date on which such a request is received, the record date for determining stockholders entitled to consent to corporate action in writing without a meeting, when no prior action by the Board is required by applicable law, shall be the first date on which a signed written consent setting forth the action taken or proposed to be taken is delivered to the Company by delivery to its registered office in the State of Delaware, its principal place of business or an officer or agent of the Company having custody of the book in which proceedings of meetings of stockholders are recorded. If no record date has been fixed by the Board and prior action by the Board is required by law, the record date for determining stockholders entitled to consent to corporate action in writing without a meeting shall be at the close of business on the day on which the Board adopts the resolution taking such prior action.

Section 1.11 Organization.

(a) At every meeting of stockholders, the Chairman of the Board, or, if a Chairman has not been appointed or is absent, the President, or, if the President is absent, a chairman of the meeting chosen by a majority in interest of the stockholders entitled to vote present in person or by proxy, shall act as chairman. The Secretary, or, in his absence, an Assistant Secretary directed to do so by the President, shall act as secretary of the meeting.

(b) The Board shall be entitled to make such rules or regulations for the conduct of meetings of stockholders as it shall deem necessary, appropriate or convenient. Subject to such rules and regulations of the Board, if any, the chairman of the meeting shall have the right and authority to prescribe such rules, regulations and procedures and to do all such acts

 

5


as, in the judgment of such chairman, are necessary, appropriate or convenient for the proper conduct of the meeting.

ARTICLE II

DIRECTORS

Section 2.1 Powers. The business and affairs of the Company shall be managed by or under the direction of the Board, except as may be otherwise provided by statute or by the Certificate of Incorporation.

Section 2.2 Number and Qualifications. The authorized number of directors of the Company shall be fixed by the Board from time to time. Directors need not be stockholders unless so required by the Certificate of Incorporation.

Section 2.3 Term of Office. Except as otherwise provided by law, or by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, directors shall serve until their successors are duly elected and qualified or until their earlier death, resignation or removal. No decrease in the number of directors constituting the Board shall shorten the term of any incumbent director.

Section 2.4 Resignation. Any director may resign at any time by delivering his or her notice in writing or by electronic transmission to the Secretary, such resignation to specify whether it will be effective at a particular time, upon receipt by the Secretary or at the pleasure of the Board. If no such specification is made, it shall be deemed effective at the pleasure of the Board.

Section 2.5 Removal. Subject to any limitations imposed by applicable law, the Board or any director may be removed from office at any time by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the voting power of all then-outstanding shares of capital stock of the Company entitled to vote generally at an election of directors.

Section 2.6 Vacancies. Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation and subject to the rights of the holders of any series of Preferred Stock, any vacancies on the Board resulting from death, resignation, disqualification, removal or other causes and any newly created directorships resulting from any increase in the number of directors shall be filled only by the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors then in office, even though less than a quorum of the Board, or by a sole remaining director, provided, however, that whenever the holders of any class or classes of stock or series thereof are entitled to elect one or more directors by the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation, vacancies and newly created directorships of such class or classes or series shall be filled by a majority of the directors elected by such class or classes or series thereof then in office, or by a sole remaining director so elected.

Section 2.7 Meetings.

(a) Regular Meetings. Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, regular meetings of the Board may be held at such time, date and place as has been designated by the Board and of which all directors have been notified, either orally or in writing. No further notice shall be required for a regular meeting of the Board.

 

6


(b) Special Meetings. Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, special meetings of the Board may be held at any time and place whenever called by the Chairman of the Board, the President or any two of the directors.

(c) Notice of Special Meetings. Notice of the time and place of all special meetings of the Board shall be made, orally or in writing, and delivered manually or by electronic transmission, at least twenty-four (24) hours before the date and time of the meeting. If notice is sent by US mail, it shall be sent by first class mail, postage prepaid at least three (3) days before the date of the meeting. Notice of any meeting may be waived in writing or by electronic transmission at any time before or after the meeting and will be waived by any director by attendance thereat, except when the director attends the meeting for the express purpose of objecting, at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. The transaction of all business at any special meeting of the Board, or any committee thereof, however called or noticed, shall be valid as though the meeting had been duly held after regular call and notice, if a quorum is present and, either before or after the meeting, each of the directors not present who did not receive notice shall sign a written waiver of notice or shall waive notice by electronic transmission. All such waivers shall be filed with the corporate records or made a part of the minutes of the meeting.

(d) Meetings by Electronic Communications Equipment. Any member of the Board, or of any committee thereof, may participate in a meeting by telephone or other electronic communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and participation in a meeting by such means shall constitute presence in person at such meeting.

Section 2.8 Quorum and Voting.

(a) Unless the Certificate of Incorporation requires a greater number, a quorum of the Board shall consist of a majority of the total number of directors; provided, however, at any meeting, whether or not a quorum is present, a majority of the directors present may adjourn from time to time until the time fixed for the next regular meeting of the Board, without notice other than by announcement at the meeting.

(b) At each meeting of the Board at which a quorum is present, all questions and business shall be determined by the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors present, unless a different vote be required by law, or by the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws.

Section 2.9 Action Without Meeting. Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board or of any committee thereof may be taken without a meeting, if all members of the Board or committee, as the case may be, consent thereto in writing or by electronic transmission, and such writings or transmissions are filed with the minutes of proceedings of the Board or committee.

Section 2.10 Committees.

(a) Establishment and Composition. The Board may establish one or more committees, each consisting of one or more directors, each of whom shall serve as a member of such committee until his or her death, resignation or removal from the committee or from the

 

7


Board. Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, the Board may at any time increase or decrease the number of members of a committee or terminate the existence of a committee. The Board may at any time for any reason remove any individual committee member and the Board may fill any committee vacancy created by death, resignation, removal or increase in the number of members of the committee. The Board may designate one or more directors as alternate members of any committee, who may replace any absent or disqualified member at any meeting of the committee, and, in addition, in the absence or disqualification of any member of a committee, the member or members thereof present at any meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not he, she or they constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the Board to act at the meeting in the place of any such absent or disqualified member.

(b) Powers. Each committee shall have such powers and perform such duties as may be prescribed by the resolutions creating such committees, but in no event shall any such committee have any power or authority in reference to (i) approving or adopting, or recommending to the stockholders, any action or matter expressly required by the DGCL to be submitted to stockholders for approval, or (ii) adopting, amending or repealing any bylaw of the Company.

(c) Meetings. Unless the Board shall otherwise provide, regular meetings of any committee appointed pursuant to this Section 2.10 shall be held at such times and places as are determined by the Board, or by any such committee, and when notice thereof has been given to each member of such committee, no further notice of such regular meetings need be given thereafter. Special meetings of any such committee may be held at any place which has been determined from time to time by such committee, and may be called by any director who is a member of such committee, upon notice to the members of such committee of the time and place of such special meeting given in the manner provided for the giving of notice to members of the Board of the time and place of special meetings of the Board. Notice of any special meeting of any committee may be waived in writing at any time before or after the meeting and will be waived by any director by attendance thereat, except when the director attends such special meeting for the express purpose of objecting, at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened.

(d) Quorum and Voting. Unless otherwise provided by the Board in the resolutions authorizing the creation of the committee, a majority of the authorized number of members of any such committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business, and the act of a majority of those present at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of such committee.

Section 2.11 Chairman of the Board; Vice Chairman of the Board. The Board may appoint from its members a Chairman of the Board and a Vice Chairman of the Board. If the Board appoints a Chairman of the Board or a Vice Chairman of the Board, such Chairman or Vice Chairman shall perform such duties and possess such powers as are assigned by the Board. Unless otherwise provided by the Board, the Chairman of the Board or, in the Chairman’s absence, the Vice Chairman of the Board, if any, shall preside at all meetings of the Board.

 

8


Section 2.12 Fees and Compensation. Directors shall be entitled to such compensation for their services as may be approved from time to time by the Board, including, if so approved, a fixed sum and expenses of attendance, if any, for attendance at each regular or special meeting of the Board and at any meeting of a committee of the Board. Nothing herein contained shall be construed to preclude any director from serving the Company in any other capacity as an officer, agent, employee or otherwise and receiving compensation therefor.

ARTICLE III

OFFICERS

Section 3.1 Officers Designated. The officers of the Company shall include, if and when designated by the Board, the Chief Executive Officer, the President, one or more Vice Presidents, the Secretary, the Chief Financial Officer and the Treasurer, all of whom shall be elected at any meeting of the Board. The Board may also appoint one or more Assistant Secretaries, Assistant Treasurers and such other officers and agents with such powers and duties as it shall deem necessary. The Board may assign such additional titles to one or more of the officers as it shall deem appropriate. Any one person may hold any number of offices of the Company at any one time unless specifically prohibited therefrom by law.

Section 3.2 Tenure of Officers.

(a) General. All officers shall hold office at the pleasure of the Board and until their successors shall have been duly elected and qualified or their earlier death, resignation or removal.

(b) Resignations. Any officer may resign at any time by giving notice in writing or by electronic transmission to the Board or to the President or to the Secretary. Any such resignation shall be effective when received by the person or persons to whom such notice is given, unless a later time is specified therein, in which event the resignation shall become effective at such later time. Unless otherwise specified in such notice, the acceptance of any such resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective. Any resignation shall be without prejudice to the rights, if any, of the Company under any contract with the resigning officer.

(c) Removal. Any officer may be removed from office at any time, either with or without cause, by the Board or by any committee or superior officers upon whom such power of removal may have been conferred by the Board.

(d) Vacancies. If the office of any officer becomes vacant for any reason, the vacancy may be filled by the Board.

Section 3.3 Duties of Officers.

(a) Duties of the Chief Executive Officer. The Chief Executive Officer shall preside at all meetings of the stockholders and at all meetings of the Board, unless the Chairman of the Board has been appointed and is present. The Chief Executive Officer shall, subject to the direction of the Board, have general supervision, direction and control of the business and affairs of the Company. The Chief Executive Officer shall also perform all other duties commonly incident to the office or that are delegated to such officer by the Board from time to time.

 

9


(b) Duties of President. Unless some other officer has been elected Chief Executive Officer of the Company, the President shall be the chief executive officer of the Company and shall, subject to the direction of the Board, have general supervision, direction and control of the business and affairs of the Company. The President shall also perform all other duties commonly incident to the office or that are delegated to such office by the Board from time to time.

(c) Duties of Vice Presidents. The Vice Presidents may assume and perform the duties of the President in the absence or disability of the President or whenever the office of President is vacant. The Vice Presidents shall also perform all other duties commonly incident to their office or that are delegated to such office by the Board from time to time.

(d) Duties of Secretary. The Secretary shall attend all meetings of the stockholders and of the Board and shall record all acts and proceedings thereof in the minute book of the Company. The Secretary shall give notice in conformity with these Bylaws of all meetings of the stockholders and of all meetings of the Board and any committee thereof requiring notice. The Secretary shall perform all other duties provided for in these Bylaws and/or that are delegated to such office by the Board from time to time.

(e) Duties of Chief Financial Officer. The Chief Financial Officer shall keep or cause to be kept the books of account of the Company in a thorough and proper manner and shall render statements of the financial affairs of the Company in such form and as often as required by the Board or the Chief Executive Officer. The Chief Financial Officer shall also perform all other duties commonly incident to the office or that are delegated to such office by the Board from time to time.

(f) Duties of Treasurer. Unless some other officer has been elected Chief Financial Officer, the Treasurer shall be the chief financial officer of the Company and shall keep or cause to be kept the books of account of the Company in a thorough and proper manner and shall render statements of the financial affairs of the Company in such form and as often as required by the Board or the Chief Executive Officer. The Treasurer shall also perform all other duties commonly incident to the office or that are delegated to such officer by the Board from time to time.

Section 3.4 Execution of Corporate Instruments. The Board may, in its discretion, determine the method and designate the signatory officer or officers, or other person or persons, to execute on behalf of the Company any corporate instrument or document, or to sign on behalf of the Company the corporate name, or to enter into contracts on behalf of the Company, except where otherwise provided by law or these Bylaws, and such execution or signature shall be binding upon the Company. Unless authorized or ratified by the Board, no officer, agent or employee shall have any power or authority to bind the Company by any contract or engagement or to pledge its credit or to render it liable for any purpose or for any amount. All checks and drafts drawn on banks or other depositaries of funds to the credit of the Company or in special accounts of the Company shall be signed by such person or persons as the Board shall authorize.

Section 3.5 Voting of Securities Owned by the Company. All stock and other securities of other companies owned or held by the Company for itself, or for other parties in any

 

10


capacity, shall be voted, and all proxies with respect thereto shall be executed, by the person authorized by resolution of the Board, or, in the absence of such authorization, by the Chairman of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer, the President or any Vice President.

Section 3.6 Salaries. The salaries and other compensation of the officers of the Company shall be fixed by or in the manner designated by the Board.

Section 3.7 Loans. Except as otherwise prohibited under applicable law, the Company may lend money to, or guarantee any obligation of, or otherwise assist any officer or other employee of the Company or of its subsidiaries, including any officer or employee who is a director of the Company or its subsidiaries, whenever, in the judgment of the Board, such loan, guarantee or assistance is in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders. The loan, guarantee or other assistance may be with or without interest and may be unsecured, or secured in such manner as the Board shall approve, including, without limitation, a pledge of shares of stock of the Company.

Section 3.8 Delegation of Authority. The Board may from time to time delegate the powers or duties of any officer to any other officer or agent, notwithstanding any provision hereof.

ARTICLE IV

SHARES OF STOCK

Section 4.1 Form and Execution of Certificates. The shares of the Company shall be represented by certificates or, if determined by the Board, may be uncertificated. Certificates for the shares of stock, if any, shall be in such form as is consistent with the Certificate of Incorporation and applicable law. Every holder of stock in the Company represented by certificate shall be entitled to have a certificate signed by or in the name of the Company by any two authorized officers of the Company, certifying the number of shares owned by him or her in the Company. Any or all of the signatures on the certificate may be facsimiles. In case any officer, transfer agent, or registrar who has signed or whose facsimile signature has been placed upon a certificate shall have ceased to be such officer, transfer agent, or registrar before such certificate is issued, it may be issued with the same effect as if he or she were such officer, transfer agent, or registrar at the date of issue.

Section 4.2 Lost Certificates. A new certificate or certificates shall be issued in place of any certificate or certificates theretofore issued by the Company alleged to have been lost, stolen, or destroyed, upon the making of an affidavit of that fact by the person claiming the certificate of stock to be lost, stolen, or destroyed. The Company may require, as a condition precedent to the issuance of a new certificate or certificates, the owner of such lost, stolen, or destroyed certificate or certificates, or the owner’s legal representative, to agree to indemnify the Company in such manner as it shall require or to give the Company a surety bond in such form and amount as it may direct as indemnity against any claim that may be made against the Company with respect to the certificate alleged to have been lost, stolen, or destroyed.

 

11


ARTICLE V

TRANSFERS OF SHARES

Section 5.1 Transfers.

(a) Transfers of record of shares of stock of the Company shall be made only upon its books by the holders thereof, in person or by attorney duly authorized, and, in the case of stock represented by certificate, upon the surrender of a properly endorsed certificate or certificates for a like number of shares.

(b) The Company shall have power to enter into and perform any agreement with any number of stockholders of any one or more classes of stock of the Company to restrict the transfer of shares of stock of the Company of any one or more classes owned by such stockholders in any manner not prohibited by the DGCL.

Section 5.2 Registered Stockholders. The Company shall be entitled to recognize the exclusive right of a person registered on its books as the owner of shares to receive dividends, and to vote as such owner, and shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to or interest in such share or shares on the part of any other person whether or not it shall have express or other notice thereof, except as otherwise provided by the laws of Delaware.

Section 5.3 Notice of Transfer. If a stockholder desires to sell, transfer, assign, pledge, or otherwise dispose of or encumber any shares of Common Stock of the Company (the Common Stock”) or any right or interest therein, whether voluntarily or by operation of law, or by gift or otherwise (each, a Transfer”) any shares of Common Stock of the Company, then the stockholder shall first give written notice thereof to the Company. The notice shall name the proposed transferee and state the number of shares of Common Stock to be transferred, the proposed consideration, and all other terms and conditions of the proposed Transfer.

Section 5.4 Consent of Company.

(a) No stockholder may Transfer any shares of Common Stock, without the prior written consent of the Company, upon duly authorized action of its Board. The Company may withhold consent for any legitimate corporate purpose, as determined by the Board, including, without limitation, (i) if such Transfer is to individuals, companies or any other form of entity identified by the Company as a potential competitor or considered by the Company to be unfriendly, (ii) if such Transfer increases the risk of the Company having a class of security held of record by 2,000 or more persons, or 500 or more persons who are not accredited investors (as such term is defined by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), as described in Section 12(g) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the 1934 Act”), as amended and any related regulations, or otherwise requiring the Company to register any class of securities under the 1934 Act, (iii) if such Transfer would result in the loss of any federal or state securities law exemption relied upon by the Company in connection with the initial issuance of such shares or the issuance of any other securities, (iv) if such Transfer is facilitated in any manner by any public posting, message board, trading portal, internet site, or similar method of communication, including without limitation any trading portal or internet site intended to facilitate secondary transfers of securities, (v) if such Transfer is to be effected in a

 

12


brokered transaction or (vi) if such Transfer represents a Transfer of less than all of the shares then held by the stockholder and its affiliates or is to be made to more than a single transferee.

(b) Any shares of Common Stock proposed to be transferred to which Transfer the Company has consented pursuant to this Section 5.4 will first be subject to the Company’s right of first refusal set forth in Section 5.5 hereof.

Section 5.5 Right of First Refusal. No stockholder shall Transfer any shares of Common Stock or any right or interest therein, except by a Transfer which meets the requirements set forth in this Section 5.5.

(a) For thirty (30) days following the Company’s receipt pursuant to Section 5.3 of a notice of a proposed Transfer, the Company shall have the option to purchase all (but not less than all) of the shares specified in the notice at the price and upon the terms set forth in such notice; provided, however, that, with the consent of the stockholder, the Company shall have the option to purchase a lesser portion of the shares specified in such notice at the price and upon the terms set forth therein. In the event of a gift, property settlement or other Transfer in which the proposed transferee is not paying the full price for the shares, and that is not otherwise exempted from the provisions of this Section 5.5, the price shall be deemed to be the fair market value of the Common Stock at such time as determined in good faith by the Board.

(b) The Company may assign its rights hereunder.

(c) In the event the Company elects to purchase all of the shares or, with consent of the stockholder, a lesser portion of the shares, the Secretary of the Company shall so notify the transferring stockholder and settlement thereof shall be made in cash within thirty (30) days after the Secretary of the Company receives such transferring stockholder’s notice; provided that if the terms of payment set forth in such transferring stockholder’s notice were other than cash against delivery, the Company and/or its assignee(s) shall pay for such shares on the same terms and conditions set forth in such transferring stockholder’s notice.

(d) In the event the Company and/or its assignees(s) do not elect to acquire all of the shares specified in the transferring stockholder’s notice, such transferring stockholder may, subject to the Company’s approval and all other restrictions on Transfer located in Section 5.4 hereof, within the sixty (60)-day period following the expiration or waiver of the option rights granted to the Company and/or its assignees(s) herein, Transfer the shares specified in such transferring stockholder’s notice which were not acquired by the Company and/or its assignees(s) as specified in such transferring stockholder’s notice.

(e) To the extent this Section 5.5 conflicts with any written agreement between the Company and the stockholder attempting to transfer shares, such agreement shall control.

Section 5.6 Effect of a Permitted Transfer. In the event the Company consents to a Transfer in accordance with Section 5.4 and waives of its right of first refusal with respect to such Transfer in accordance with Section 5.5: (a) all shares sold by a transferring stockholder shall continue to be subject to the provisions of this Article V in the same manner as before such Transfer; (b) the transferee, assignee, or other recipient shall receive and hold all shares acquired

 

13


in such Transfer subject to the provisions of Section 5.4 and Section 5.5 hereof; and (c) there shall be no further Transfer of such shares except in accord with this Article V.

Section 5.7 Exceptions to Transfer Restrictions. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, the restrictions set forth in Section 5.4 and Section 5.5 shall not apply to any Transfer of shares of Common Stock: (a) issued or issuable upon conversion of shares of Preferred Stock of the Company, if applicable; (b) held either during such stockholder’s lifetime or on death by will or intestacy to (i) such stockholder’s spouse, domestic partner, lineal descendant or antecedent, father, mother, brother, sister or stepchild (whether or not adopted) (collectively, such stockholder’s immediate family”), (ii) a trust established solely for the benefit of the stockholder and/or his or her immediate family or (iii) where the stockholder is a trust, (A) a trust established solely for the benefit of one or more beneficiaries of the stockholder trust and/or the immediate family of any such beneficiaries or (B) one or more beneficiaries of the stockholder trust and/or the immediate family of any such beneficiaries; (c) to the Company or to any other stockholder of the Company; or (d) made as part of the sale of all or substantially all of the shares of capital stock of the Company (including pursuant to a merger or consolidation).

Section 5.8 Waiver. The Company may waive the provisions of Section 5.4 and Section 5.5 with respect to any Transfer upon duly authorized action of the Board.

Section 5.9 Legends.

(a) The certificates representing shares of Common Stock shall bear on their face the following legend so long as the foregoing Transfer restrictions set forth in Section 5.4 are in effect:

“THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO A TRANSFER RESTRICTION, AS PROVIDED IN THE BYLAWS OF THE COMPANY.”

(b) The certificates representing shares of Common Stock shall bear on their face the following legend so long as the right of first refusal set forth in Section 5.5 remains in effect:

“THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THIS CERTIFICATE ARE SUBJECT TO A RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL OPTION IN FAVOR OF THE COMPANY AND/OR ITS ASSIGNEE(S), AS PROVIDED IN THE BYLAWS OF THE COMPANY.”

Section 5.10 Non-Compliant Transfers. Any Transfer, or purported Transfer, of shares of Common Stock of the Company not made in strict compliance with Section 5.4 and Section 5.5 shall be null and void, shall not be recorded on the books of the Company and shall not be recognized by the Company.

Section 5.11 Termination of Transfer Restrictions. The restrictions on Transfer set forth in Section 5.4 and Section 5.5 shall terminate upon the date securities of the Company are

 

14


first offered to the public pursuant to a registration statement filed with, and declared effective by, the SEC under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

ARTICLE VI

DIVIDENDS

Section 6.1 Declaration of Dividends. Dividends upon the capital stock of the Company, subject to the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation and applicable law, if any, may be declared by the Board pursuant to law at any regular or special meeting. Dividends may be paid in cash, in property, or in shares of the capital stock, subject to the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation and applicable law.

Section 6.2 Dividend Reserve. Before payment of any dividend, there may be set aside out of any funds of the Company available for dividends such sum or sums as the Board from time to time, in their absolute discretion, think proper as a reserve or reserves to meet contingencies, or for equalizing dividends, or for repairing or maintaining any property of the Company, or for such other purpose as the Board shall think conducive to the interests of the Company, and the Board may modify or abolish any such reserve in the manner in which it was created.

Section 6.3 Record Date. In order that the Company may determine the stockholders entitled to receive payment of any dividend or other distribution or allotment of any rights or the stockholders entitled to exercise any rights in respect of any change, conversion or exchange of stock, or for the purpose of any other lawful action, the Board may fix, in advance, a record date, which record date shall not precede the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted, and which record date shall be not more than sixty (60) days prior to such action. If no record date is fixed, the record date for determining stockholders for any such purpose shall be at the close of business on the day on which the Board adopts the resolution relating thereto.

ARTICLE VII

INDEMNIFICATION

Section 7.1 Indemnification of Directors, Officers, Employees and Other Agents.

(a) Directors and Officers. The Company shall indemnify its current and former directors and officers to the fullest extent not prohibited by the DGCL or any other applicable law; provided, however, that the Company may modify the extent of such indemnification by individual contracts with its directors and officers; and, provided, further, that the Company shall not be required to indemnify any director or officer in connection with any Proceeding initiated by such person unless (i) such indemnification is expressly required to be made by law, (ii) the Proceeding was authorized by the Board, (iii) such indemnification is provided by the Company, in its sole discretion, pursuant to the powers vested in the Company under the DGCL or any other applicable law or (iv) such indemnification is required to be made under Section 7.3. For purposes of this Article VII, “Proceeding” shall be broadly construed and shall include, without limitation, the investigation, preparation, prosecution, defense, settlement, arbitration and appeal of, and the giving of testimony in, any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative.

 

15


(b) Employees and Other Agents. The Company shall have power to indemnify its employees and other agents as set forth in the DGCL or any other applicable law. The Board shall have the power to delegate the determination of whether indemnification shall be given to any such person to such officers or other persons as the Board shall determine.

Section 7.2 Advancement of Expenses. The Company shall advance to any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed Proceeding by reason of the fact that he or she is or was a director or officer of the Company, or is or was serving at the request of the Company as a director or officer of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise, prior to the final disposition of the Proceeding, promptly following request therefor, all expenses incurred by any director or officer in connection with such Proceeding, provided, however, that, if the DGCL requires, an advancement of expenses incurred by a director or officer in his or her capacity as a director or officer (and not in any other capacity in which service was or is rendered by such indemnitee, including, without limitation, service to an employee benefit plan) shall be made only upon delivery to the Company of an undertaking, by or on behalf of such indemnitee, to repay all amounts so advanced if it shall ultimately be determined by final judicial decision from which there is no further right to appeal that such indemnitee is not entitled to be indemnified for such expenses under this Article VII or otherwise. Notwithstanding the foregoing, unless otherwise determined pursuant to Section 7.3, no advance shall be made by the Company to an officer of the Company (except by reason of the fact that such officer is or was a director of the Company, in which event this paragraph shall not apply) in any Proceeding if a determination is reasonably and promptly made: (a) by a majority vote of a quorum consisting of directors who were not parties to the Proceeding, even if not a quorum; (b) by a committee of such directors designated by a majority of such directors, even though less than a quorum; or (c) if there are no such directors, or such directors so direct, by independent legal counsel in a written opinion, that the facts known to the decision-making party at the time such determination is made demonstrate clearly and convincingly that such person acted in bad faith or in a manner that such person did not believe to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company.

Section 7.3 Enforcement. Without the necessity of entering into an express contract, all rights to indemnification and advances to directors and officers under Article VII shall be deemed to be contractual rights and be effective to the same extent and as if provided for in a contract between the Company and the director or officer. Any right to indemnification or advances granted by this Article VII to a director or officer shall be enforceable by or on behalf of the person holding such right in any court of competent jurisdiction if: (a) the claim for indemnification or advances is denied, in whole or in part; or (b) no disposition of such claim is made within ninety (90) days of request therefor. The claimant in such enforcement action, if successful in whole or in part, shall be entitled to be paid also the expense of prosecuting the claim. In connection with any claim for indemnification, the Company shall be entitled to raise as a defense to any such action that the claimant has not met the standards of conduct that make it permissible under the DGCL or any other applicable law for the Company to indemnify the claimant for the amount claimed. In connection with any claim by an officer of the Company (except in any Proceeding by reason of the fact that such officer is or was a director of the Company) for advances, the Company shall be entitled to raise as a defense as to any such action clear and convincing evidence that such person acted in bad faith or in a manner that such person did not believe to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company, or with respect to

 

16


any criminal Proceeding that such person acted without reasonable cause to believe that his conduct was lawful. Neither the failure of the Company (including its Board, independent legal counsel or its stockholders) to have made a determination prior to the commencement of such Proceeding that indemnification of the claimant is proper in the circumstances because he or she has met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in the DGCL or any other applicable law, nor an actual determination by the Company (including its Board, independent legal counsel or its stockholders) that the claimant has not met such applicable standard of conduct, shall be a defense to the action or create a presumption that claimant has not met the applicable standard of conduct. In any suit brought by a director or officer to enforce a right to indemnification or to an advancement of expenses hereunder, the burden of proving that the director or officer is not entitled to be indemnified, or to such advancement of expenses, under this Article VII or otherwise shall be on the Company.

Section 7.4 Non-Exclusivity of Rights. The rights conferred on any person by this Article VII shall not be exclusive of any other right which such person may have or hereafter acquire under any applicable statute, provision of the Certificate of Incorporation, Bylaws, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, both as to action in his official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding office. The Company is specifically authorized to enter into individual contracts with any or all of its directors, officers, employees or agents respecting indemnification and advances, to the fullest extent not prohibited by the DGCL or any other applicable law.

Section 7.5 Survival of Rights. The rights conferred on any person by this Article VII shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or other agent and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of such a person.

Section 7.6 Insurance. To the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL, or any other applicable law, the Company, upon approval by the Board, may purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person required or permitted to be indemnified pursuant to this Article VII.

Section 7.7 Effect of Amendments. Any repeal or modification of this Article VII shall only be prospective and shall not affect the rights under this Article VII in effect at the time of the alleged occurrence of any action or omission to act that is the cause of any proceeding against any agent of the Company.

Section 7.8 Saving Clause. If this Article VII or any portion hereof shall be invalidated on any ground by any court of competent jurisdiction, then the Company shall nevertheless indemnify each director and officer to the full extent not prohibited by any applicable portion of this Article VII that shall not have been invalidated, or by any other applicable law. If this Article VII shall be invalid due to the application of the indemnification provisions of another jurisdiction, then the Company shall indemnify each director and officer to the full extent under applicable law.

 

17


ARTICLE VIII

NOTICES

Section 8.1 Notices to Stockholders. Written notice to stockholders of stockholder meetings shall be given as provided in Section 1.4 herein. Without limiting the manner by which notice may otherwise be given effectively to stockholders under any agreement or contract with such stockholder, and except as otherwise required by law, written notice to stockholders for purposes other than stockholder meetings may be sent by United States mail, nationally recognized overnight courier or by electronic transmission. An affidavit, executed by a duly authorized and competent employee or other agent of the Company, that notice has been given shall, in the absence of fraud, be prima facie evidence of the facts therein contained.

Section 8.2 Notices to Directors. Any notice required to be given to any director may be. given by the methods stated in Section 8.1. If such notice is not delivered personally, it shall be sent to such address as such director shall have filed in writing with the Secretary, or, in the absence of such filing, to the last known address of such director. An affidavit, executed by a duly authorized and competent employee or other agent of the Company, that notice has been given shall, in the absence of fraud, be prima facie evidence of the facts therein contained.

Section 8.3 Methods of Notice. It shall not be necessary that the same method of giving notice be employed in respect of all recipients of notice, but one permissible method may be employed in respect of any one or more, and any other permissible method or methods may be employed in respect of any other or others.

Section 8.4 Notices to Person with Whom Communication Is Unlawful. Whenever notice is required to be given, under any provision of law or of the Certificate of Incorporation or these Bylaws, to any person with whom communication is unlawful, the giving of such notice to such person shall not be required and there shall be no duty to apply to any governmental authority or agency for a license or permit to give such notice to such person. Any action or meeting which shall be taken or held without notice to any such person with whom communication is unlawful shall have the same force and effect as if such notice had been duly given. In the event that the action taken by the Company is such as to require the filing of a certificate under any provision of the DGCL, the certificate shall state, if such is the fact and if notice is required, that notice was given to all persons entitled to receive notice except such persons with whom communication is unlawful.

ARTICLE IX

MISCELLANEOUS

Section 9.1 Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the Company shall be fixed by resolution of the Board.

Section 9.2 Corporate Seal. The Board may adopt a corporate seal. The Company may use such seal by causing it or a facsimile thereof to be impressed or affixed or reproduced or otherwise.

Section 9.3 Annual Report. The Company shall cause an annual report to be sent to the stockholders of the Company; provided that if and so long as there are fewer than one

 

18


hundred (100) holders of record of the Company’s shares, any requirement of sending an annual report to the stockholders of the Company under these Bylaws or under applicable law is hereby expressly waived.

Section 9.4 Amendments. The Board is expressly empowered to adopt, amend or repeal Bylaws of the Company. The stockholders shall also have power to adopt, amend or repeal the Bylaws of the Company; provided, however, that, in addition to any vote of the holders of any class or series of stock of the Company required by law or by the Certificate of Incorporation, such action by stockholders shall require the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the voting power of all of the then-outstanding shares of the capital stock of the Company entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, voting together as a single class.

*    *    *

 

19


CERTIFICATE OF SECRETARY

OF

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT:

I am the duly elected and acting Secretary of Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”); and

Attached hereto is a complete and accurate copy of the Bylaws of the Company as duly adopted by the Board of Directors by Written Consent dated August 2, 2018, and such Bylaws are presently in effect.

 

By:   /s/ Carl Sanchez
  Carl Sanchez
  Secretary
EX-3.3

Exhibit 3.3

AMENDED AND RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION

OF

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

Tyra Biosciences, Inc. (the “Corporation”), a corporation organized and existing under the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “DGCL”), does hereby certify as follows:

1. The name of the Corporation is Tyra Biosciences, Inc. The Corporation was incorporated under the name Tyra Biosciences, Inc. by the filing of its original Certificate of Incorporation with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on August 2, 2018 (as amended from time to time, the “Original Certificate”).

2. An Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, which amended and restated the Original Certificate in its entirety, was filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on March 5, 2021 (as amended from time to time, the “Existing Certificate”).

3. This Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (the “Amended and Restated Certificate”), which amends and restates the Existing Certificate in its entirety, has been approved by the Board of Directors of the Corporation (the “Board of Directors”) in accordance with Sections 242 and 245 of the DGCL and has been adopted by the stockholders of the Corporation at a meeting of the stockholders of the Corporation in accordance with the provisions of Section 211 of the DGCL.

4. The text of the Existing Certificate is hereby amended and restated by this Amended and Restated Certificate to read in its entirety as set forth in EXHIBIT A attached hereto.

5. This Amended and Restated Certificate shall become effective on the date of filing with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Tyra Biosciences, Inc. has caused this Amended and Restated Certificate to be signed by a duly authorized officer of the Corporation, on             , 2021.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

 

Name:   Todd Harris, Ph.D.
Title:   President and Chief Executive Officer

 

[Signature Page to Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation]


EXHIBIT A

ARTICLE I

NAME

The name of the corporation is Tyra Biosciences, Inc. (the “Corporation”).

ARTICLE II

REGISTERED OFFICE AND AGENT

The address of the Corporation’s registered office in the State of Delaware is Corporation Trust Company, 1209 Orange Street, Wilmington, Delaware 19801, County of New Castle, and the name of its registered agent at such address is The Corporation Trust Company.

ARTICLE III

PURPOSE

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 the State of Delaware (the “DGCL”) as it now exists or may hereafter be amended and supplemented.

ARTICLE IV

CAPITAL STOCK

The Corporation is authorized to issue two classes of stock to be designated, respectively, “Common Stock” and “Preferred Stock.” The total number of shares of capital stock which the Corporation shall have authority to issue is 550,000,000. The total number of shares of Common Stock that the Corporation is authorized to issue is 500,000,000, having a par value of $0.0001 per share, and the total number of shares of Preferred Stock that the Corporation is authorized to issue is 50,000,000, having a par value of $0.0001 per share.

The designations and the powers, privileges and rights, and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof in respect of each class of capital stock of the Corporation are as follows:

A. COMMON STOCK.

1. General. The voting, dividend, liquidation, and other rights and powers of the Common Stock are subject to and qualified by the rights, powers and preferences of any series of Preferred Stock as may be designated by the Board of Directors of the Corporation (the “Board of Directors”) and outstanding from time to time.

2. Voting. Except as otherwise provided herein or expressly required by law, each holder of Common Stock, as such, shall be entitled to vote on each matter submitted to a vote of stockholders and shall be entitled to one (1) vote for each share of Common Stock held of record by such holder as of the record date for determining stockholders entitled to vote on such


matter. 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 (including any Certificate of Designation (as defined below)) that relates solely to the rights, powers, preferences (or the qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof) or other 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 Amended and Restated Certificate (including any Certificate of Designation) or pursuant to the DGCL.

Subject to the rights of any holders of any outstanding series of Preferred Stock, the number of authorized shares of Common Stock may be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares thereof then outstanding) by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the stock of the Corporation entitled to vote, irrespective of the provisions of Section 242(b)(2) of the DGCL.

3. Dividends. Subject to applicable law and the rights and preferences of any holders of any outstanding series of Preferred Stock, the holders of Common Stock, as such, shall be entitled to the payment of dividends on the Common Stock when, as and if declared by the Board of Directors in accordance with applicable law.

4. Liquidation. Subject to the rights and preferences of any holders of any shares of any outstanding series of Preferred Stock, in the event of any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Corporation, whether voluntary or involuntary, the funds and assets of the Corporation that may be legally distributed to the Corporation’s stockholders shall be distributed among the holders of the then outstanding Common Stock pro rata in accordance with the number of shares of Common Stock held by each such holder.

B. PREFERRED STOCK

Shares of Preferred Stock may be issued from time to time in one or more series, each of such series to have such terms as stated or expressed herein and in the resolution or resolutions providing for the creation and issuance of such series adopted by the Board of Directors as hereinafter provided.

Authority is hereby expressly granted to the Board of Directors from time to time to issue the Preferred Stock in one or more series, and in connection with the creation of any such series, by adopting a resolution or resolutions providing for the issuance of the shares thereof and by filing a certificate of designation relating thereto in accordance with the DGCL (a “Certificate of Designation”), to determine and fix the number of shares of such series and such voting powers, full or limited, or no voting powers, and such designations, preferences and relative participating, optional or other special rights, and qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, including without limitation thereof, dividend rights, conversion rights, redemption privileges and

 

2


liquidation preferences, and to increase or decrease (but not below the number of shares of such series then outstanding) the number of shares of any series as shall be stated and expressed in such resolutions, all to the fullest extent now or hereafter permitted by the DGCL. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the resolution or resolutions providing for the creation and issuance of any series of Preferred Stock may provide that such series shall be superior or rank equally or be junior to any other series of Preferred Stock to the extent permitted by law and this Amended and Restated Certificate (including any Certificate of Designation). Except as otherwise required by law, holders of any series of Preferred Stock shall be entitled only to such voting rights, if any, as shall expressly be granted thereto by this Amended and Restated Certificate (including any Certificate of Designation).

The number of authorized shares of Preferred Stock may be increased or decreased (but not below the number of shares thereof then outstanding) by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the stock of the Corporation entitled to vote, irrespective of the provisions of Section 242(b)(2) of the DGCL.

ARTICLE V

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

For the management of the business and for the conduct of the affairs of the Corporation it is further provided that:

A. Subject to the special rights of the holders of one or more outstanding series of Preferred Stock to elect directors, the directors of the Corporation shall be classified with respect to the time for which they severally hold office into three classes, designated as Class I, Class II and Class III. The initial Class I directors shall serve for a term expiring at the first annual meeting of the stockholders following the date of this Amended and Restated Certificate; the initial Class II directors shall serve for a term expiring at the second annual meeting of the stockholders following the date of this Amended and Restated Certificate; and the initial Class III directors shall serve for a term expiring at the third annual meeting of the stockholders following the date of this Amended and Restated Certificate. At each annual meeting of the stockholders of the Corporation beginning with the first annual meeting of the stockholders following the date of this Amended and Restated Certificate, subject to the special rights of the holders of one or more outstanding series of Preferred Stock to elect directors, the successors of the class of directors whose term expires at that meeting shall be elected to hold office for a term expiring at the annual meeting of the stockholders held in the third year following the year of their election. Each director shall hold office until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified or until his or her earlier death, resignation, disqualification or removal. No decrease in the number of directors shall shorten the term of any incumbent director. The Board of Directors is authorized to assign members of the Board of Directors already in office to Class I, Class II and Class III.

 

3


B. Except as otherwise expressly provided by the DGCL or this Amended and Restated Certificate, the business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed by or under the direction of the Board of Directors. The number of directors which shall constitute the whole Board of Directors shall be fixed exclusively by one or more resolutions adopted from time to time by the Board of Directors.

C. Subject to the special rights of the holders of one or more outstanding series of Preferred Stock to elect directors, the Board of Directors or any individual director may be removed from office at any time, but only for cause and only by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds (66 and 2/3%) of the voting power of all of the then outstanding shares of voting stock of the Corporation entitled to vote at an election of directors.

D. Subject to the special rights of the holders of one or more outstanding series of Preferred Stock to elect directors, except as otherwise provided by law, any vacancies on the Board of Directors resulting from death, resignation, disqualification, retirement, removal or other causes and any newly created directorships resulting from any increase in the number of directors shall be filled exclusively by the affirmative vote of a majority of the directors then in office, even though less than a quorum, or by a sole remaining director (other than any directors elected by the separate vote of one or more outstanding series of Preferred Stock), and shall not be filled by the stockholders. Any director appointed in accordance with the preceding sentence shall hold office until the expiration of the term of the class to which such director shall have been appointed or until his or her earlier death, resignation, retirement, disqualification, or removal.

E. Whenever the holders of any one or more series of Preferred Stock issued by the Corporation shall have the right, voting separately as a series or separately as a class with one or more such other series, to elect directors at an annual or special meeting of stockholders, the election, term of office, removal and other features of such directorships shall be governed by the terms of this Amended and Restated Certificate (including any Certificate of Designation). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Article V, the number of directors that may be elected by the holders of any such series of Preferred Stock shall be in addition to the number fixed pursuant to paragraph B of this Article V, and the total number of directors constituting the whole Board of Directors shall be automatically adjusted accordingly. Except as otherwise provided in the Certificate of Designation(s) in respect of one or more series of Preferred Stock, whenever the holders of any series of Preferred Stock having such right to elect additional directors are divested of such right pursuant to the provisions of such Certificate of Designation(s), the terms of office of all such additional directors elected by the holders of such series of Preferred Stock, or elected to fill any vacancies resulting from the death, resignation, disqualification or removal of such additional directors, shall forthwith terminate (in which case each such director thereupon shall cease to be qualified as, and shall cease to be, a director) and

 

4


the total authorized number of directors of the Corporation shall automatically be reduced accordingly.

F. In furtherance and not in limitation of the powers conferred by statute, the Board of Directors is expressly authorized to adopt, amend or repeal the Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Corporation (as amended and/or restated from time to time, the “Bylaws”). In addition to any vote of the holders of any class or series of stock of the Corporation required by applicable law or by this Amended and Restated Certificate (including any Certificate of Designation in respect of one or more series of Preferred Stock) or the Bylaws of the Corporation, the adoption, amendment or repeal of the Bylaws of the Corporation by the stockholders of the Corporation shall require the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds (66 and 2/3%) of the voting power of all of the then outstanding shares of voting stock of the Corporation entitled to vote generally in an election of directors.

G. The directors of the Corporation need not be elected by written ballot unless the Bylaws so provide.

ARTICLE VI

STOCKHOLDERS

A. Any action required or permitted to be taken by the stockholders of the Corporation must be effected at an annual or special meeting of the stockholders of the Corporation, and shall not be taken by written consent in lieu of a meeting. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any action required or permitted to be taken by the holders of any series of Preferred Stock, voting separately as a series or separately as a class with one or more other such series, may be taken without a meeting, without prior notice and without a vote, to the extent expressly so provided by the applicable Certificate of Designation relating to such series of Preferred Stock, if a consent or consents in writing, setting forth the action so taken, shall be signed by the holders of outstanding shares of the relevant series of Preferred Stock having not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting at which all shares entitled to vote thereon were present and voted and shall be delivered to the Corporation in accordance with the applicable provisions of the DGCL.

B. Subject to the special rights of the holders of one or more series of Preferred Stock, special meetings of the stockholders of the Corporation may be called, for any purpose or purposes, at any time only by or at the direction of the Board of Directors, the Chairperson of the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer or the President, and shall not be called by any other person or persons.

C. Advance notice of stockholder nominations for the election of directors and of other business proposed to be brought by stockholders before any meeting of the stockholders of the Corporation shall be given in the manner provided in the Bylaws of the Corporation.

 

5


ARTICLE VII

LIABILITY

No director of the Corporation shall have any personal liability to the Corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for any breach of fiduciary duty as a director, except to the extent such exemption from liability or limitation thereof is not permitted under the DGCL as the same exists or hereafter may be amended. Any amendment, repeal or modification of this Article VII, or the adoption of any provision of the Amended and Restated Certificate inconsistent with this Article VII, shall not adversely affect any right or protection of a director of the Corporation with respect to any act or omission occurring prior to such amendment, repeal, modification or adoption. If the DGCL is amended after approval by the stockholders of this Article VII to authorize corporate action further eliminating or limiting the personal liability of directors, then the liability of a director of the Corporation shall be eliminated or limited to the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL as so amended.

ARTICLE VIII

INDEMNIFICATION

The Corporation shall have the power to provide rights to indemnification and advancement of expenses to its current and former officers, directors, employees and agents and to any person who is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise.

ARTICLE IX

FORUM SELECTION

Unless the Corporation consents in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, (a) the Court of Chancery (the “Chancery Court”) of the State of Delaware (or, in the event that the Chancery Court does not have jurisdiction, the federal district court for the District of Delaware or other state courts of the State of Delaware) shall, to the fullest extent permitted by law, be the sole and exclusive forum for (i) any derivative action, suit or proceeding (“Proceeding”) brought on behalf of the Corporation, (ii) any Proceeding asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any director, officer or stockholder of the Corporation to the Corporation or to the Corporation’s stockholders, (iii) any Proceeding arising pursuant to any provision of the DGCL, this Amended and Restated Certificate or the Bylaws (in each case, as may be amended from time to time) or (iv) any Proceeding asserting a claim against the Corporation governed by the internal affairs doctrine; and (b) subject to the preceding provisions of this Article IX, to the extent permitted by applicable law, the federal district courts of the United States of America shall be the exclusive forum for the resolution of any complaint asserting a cause of action arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. If any action the subject matter of which is within the scope of clause (a) of the immediately preceding sentence is filed in a court other than

 

6


the courts in the State of Delaware (a “Foreign Action”), such stockholder shall be deemed to have consented to (x) the personal jurisdiction of the state and federal courts in the State of Delaware in connection with any action brought in any such court to enforce the provisions of clause (a) of the immediately preceding sentence and (y) having service of process made upon such stockholder in any such action by service upon such stockholder’s counsel in the Foreign Action as agent for such stockholder. If any action the subject matter of which is within the scope of clause (b) of this Article IX is filed in a court other than the federal district courts of the United States of America (a “Foreign Securities Act Action”) in the name of any stockholder, such stockholder shall be deemed to have consented to (i) the personal jurisdiction of the federal district courts of the United States of America in connection with any action brought in any such court to enforce clause (b) (a “Securities Act Enforcement Action”), and (ii) having service of process made upon such stockholder in any such Securities Act Enforcement Action by service upon such stockholder’s counsel in the Foreign Securities Act Action as agent for such stockholder.

For the avoidance of doubt, clause (b) of this Article IX is intended to benefit and may be enforced by the Corporation, its officers and directors, the underwriters to any offering giving rise to any Proceeding, and any other professional or entity whose profession gives authority to a statement made by that person or entity and who has prepared or certified any part of the documents underlying the offering.

Any person or entity purchasing or otherwise acquiring any interest in any security of the Corporation shall be deemed to have notice of and consented to this Article IX.

If any provision or provisions of this Article IX shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable as applied to any circumstance for any reason whatsoever, (i) the validity, legality and enforceability of such provisions in any other circumstance and of the remaining provisions of this Article IX (including, without limitation, each portion of any paragraph of this Article IX containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable that is not itself held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and (ii) the application of such provision to other persons or entities and circumstances shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby.

ARTICLE X

AMENDMENTS

A. Notwithstanding anything contained in this Amended and Restated Certificate to the contrary, in addition to any vote required by applicable law, the following provisions in this Amended and Restated Certificate may be amended, altered, repealed or rescinded, in whole or in part, or any provision inconsistent therewith or herewith may be adopted, only by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds (66 and 2/3%) of the total voting power of

 

7


all the then outstanding shares of stock of the Corporation entitled to vote thereon, voting together as a single class: Part B of Article IV, Article V, Article VI, Article VII, Article VIII, Article IX and this Article X.

B. If any provision or provisions of this Amended and Restated Certificate shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable as applied to any circumstance for any reason whatsoever: (i) the validity, legality and enforceability of such provisions in any other circumstance and of the remaining provisions of this Amended and Restated Certificate (including, without limitation, each portion of any paragraph of this Amended and Restated Certificate containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable that is not itself held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall not, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, in any way be affected or impaired thereby and (ii) to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the provisions of this Amended and Restated Certificate (including, without limitation, each such portion of any paragraph of this Amended and Restated Certificate containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable) shall be construed so as to permit the Corporation to protect its directors, officers, employees and agents from personal liability in respect of their good faith service to or for the benefit of the Corporation to the fullest extent permitted by law.

 

8

EX-3.4

Exhibit 3.4

Amended and Restated Bylaws of

Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

(a Delaware corporation)


Table of Contents

 

         Page  

Article I - Corporate Offices

     1  

1.1

  Registered Office      1  

1.2

  Other Offices      1  

Article II - Meetings of Stockholders

     1  

2.1

  Place of Meetings      1  

2.2

  Annual Meeting      1  

2.3

  Special Meeting      1  

2.4

  Notice of Business to be Brought before a Meeting      2  

2.5

  Notice of Nominations for Election to the Board      5  

2.6

  Notice of Stockholders’ Meetings      8  

2.7

  Quorum      8  

2.8

  Adjourned Meeting; Notice      9  

2.9

  Conduct of Business      9  

2.10

  Voting      9  

2.11

  Record Date for Stockholder Meetings and Other Purposes      10  

2.12

  Proxies      10  

2.13

  List of Stockholders Entitled to Vote      11  

2.14

  Inspectors of Election      11  

2.15

  Delivery to the Corporation      12  

2.16

  Stockholder Action by Written Consent Without a Meeting      12  

Article III - Directors

     12  

3.1

  Powers      12  

3.2

  Number of Directors      12  

3.3

  Election, Qualification and Term of Office of Directors      12  

3.4

  Resignation and Vacancies      13  

3.5

  Place of Meetings; Meetings by Telephone      13  

3.6

  Regular Meetings      13  

3.7

  Special Meetings; Notice      13  

3.8

  Quorum      14  

3.9

  Board Action without a Meeting      14  

3.10

  Fees and Compensation of Directors      14  

3.11

  Removal of Directors      14  

Article IV - Committees

     15  

4.1

  Committees of Directors      15  

4.2

  Committee Minutes      15  

4.3

  Meetings and Actions of Committees      15  

4.4

  Subcommittees      16  

Article V - Officers

     16  

5.1

  Officers      16  

5.2

  Appointment of Officers      16  

 

i


TABLE OF CONTENTS

(continued)

 

         Page  

5.3

  Subordinate Officers      16  

5.4

  Removal and Resignation of Officers      16  

5.5

  Vacancies in Offices      16  

5.6

  Representation of Shares of Other Corporations      17  

5.7

  Authority and Duties of Officers      17  

5.8

  Compensation      17  

Article VI - Records

     17  

Article VII - General Matters

     17  

7.1

  Execution of Corporate Contracts and Instruments      17  

7.2

  Stock Certificates      18  

7.3

  Special Designation of Certificates      18  

7.4

  Lost Certificates      18  

7.5

  Shares Without Certificates      19  

7.6

  Construction; Definitions      19  

7.7

  Dividends      19  

7.8

  Fiscal Year      19  

7.9

  Seal      19  

7.10

  Transfer of Stock      19  

7.11

  Stock Transfer Agreements      20  

7.12

  Registered Stockholders      20  

7.13

  Waiver of Notice      20  

Article VIII - Notice

     20  

8.1

  Delivery of Notice; Notice by Electronic Transmission      20  

Article IX - Indemnification

     21  

9.1

  Indemnification of Directors and Officers      21  

9.2

  Indemnification of Others      21  

9.3

  Prepayment of Expenses      22  

9.4

  Determination; Claim      22  

9.5

  Non-Exclusivity of Rights      22  

9.6

  Insurance      22  

9.7

  Other Indemnification      22  

9.8

  Continuation of Indemnification      23  

9.9

  Amendment or Repeal; Interpretation      23  

Article X - Amendments

     23  

Article XI - Definitions

     24  

 

ii


Amended and Restated Bylaws of

Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

 

 

 

ARTICLE I - Corporate Offices

1.1 Registered Office.

The address of the registered office of Tyra Biosciences, Inc. (the “Corporation”) in the State of Delaware, and the name of its registered agent at such address, shall be as set forth in the Corporation’s certificate of incorporation, as the same may be amended and/or restated from time to time (the “Certificate of Incorporation”).

1.2 Other Offices.

The Corporation may have additional offices at any place or places, within or outside the State of Delaware, as the Corporation’s board of directors (the “Board”) may from time to time establish or as the business of the Corporation may require.

ARTICLE II - Meetings of Stockholders

2.1 Place of Meetings.

Meetings of stockholders shall be held at any place, within or outside the State of Delaware, designated by the Board. The Board may, in its sole discretion, determine that a meeting of stockholders shall not be held at any place, but may instead be held solely by means of remote communication as authorized by Section 211(a) of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “DGCL”). In the absence of any such designation or determination, stockholders’ meetings shall be held at the Corporation’s principal executive office.

2.2 Annual Meeting.

The Board shall designate the date and time of the annual meeting. At the annual meeting, directors shall be elected and other proper business properly brought before the meeting in accordance with Section 2.4 may be transacted. The Board may postpone, reschedule or cancel any previously scheduled annual meeting of stockholders.

2.3 Special Meeting.

Special meetings of the stockholders may be called only by such persons and only in such manner as set forth in the Certificate of Incorporation.

No business may be transacted at any special meeting of stockholders other than the business specified in the notice of such meeting. The Board may postpone, reschedule or cancel any previously scheduled special meeting of stockholders.


2.4 Notice of Business to be Brought before a Meeting.

(a) At an annual meeting of the stockholders, only such business shall be conducted as shall have been properly brought before the meeting. To be properly brought before an annual meeting, business must be (i) specified in a notice of meeting given by or at the direction of the Board, (ii) if not specified in a notice of meeting, otherwise brought before the meeting by the Board or the Chairperson of the Board or (iii) otherwise properly brought before the meeting by a stockholder present in person who (A) (1) was a record owner of shares of the Corporation both at the time of giving the notice provided for in this Section 2.4 and at the time of the meeting, (2) is entitled to vote at the meeting and (3) has complied with this Section 2.4 in all applicable respects or (B) properly made such proposal in accordance with Rule 14a-8 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder (as so amended and inclusive of such rules and regulations, the “Exchange Act”). The foregoing clause (iii) shall be the exclusive means for a stockholder to propose business to be brought before an annual meeting of the stockholders. The only matters that may be brought before a special meeting are the matters specified in the notice of meeting given by or at the direction of the person calling the meeting pursuant to Section 2.3, and stockholders shall not be permitted to propose business to be brought before a special meeting of the stockholders. For purposes of this Section 2.4, “present in person” shall mean that the stockholder proposing that the business be brought before the annual meeting of the Corporation, or a qualified representative of such proposing stockholder, appear at such annual meeting in person, or by remote communication, if applicable. A “qualified representative” of such proposing stockholder shall be a duly authorized officer, manager or partner of such stockholder or any other person authorized by a writing executed by such stockholder or an electronic transmission delivered by such stockholder to act for such stockholder as proxy at the meeting of stockholders and such person must produce such writing or electronic transmission, or a reliable reproduction of the writing or electronic transmission, at the meeting of stockholders. Stockholders seeking to nominate persons for election to the Board must comply with Section 2.5, and this Section 2.4 shall not be applicable to nominations except as expressly provided in Section 2.5.

(b) Without qualification, for business to be properly brought before an annual meeting by a stockholder, the stockholder must (i) provide Timely Notice (as defined below) thereof in writing and in proper form to the Secretary of the Corporation and (ii) provide any updates or supplements to such notice at the times and in the forms required by this Section 2.4. To be timely, a stockholder’s notice must be delivered to, or mailed and received at, the principal executive offices of the Corporation not less than ninety (90) days nor more than one hundred twenty (120) days prior to the one-year anniversary of the preceding year’s annual meeting; provided, however, that if no annual meeting was held in the preceding year, to be timely, a stockholder’s notice must be so delivered, or mailed and received, not earlier than the close of business on the one hundred and twentieth (120th) day prior to such annual meeting and not later than the close of business on the later of the ninetieth (90th) day prior to such annual meeting or, if later, the tenth (10th) day following the day on which public disclosure of the date of such annual meeting was first made by the Corporation; provided, further, that if the date of the annual meeting is more than thirty (30) days before or more than sixty (60) days after such anniversary date, to be timely, a stockholder’s notice must be so delivered, or mailed and received, not later than the ninetieth (90th) day prior to such annual meeting or, if later, the tenth (10th) day following the day on which public disclosure of the date of such annual meeting was first made by the Corporation (such notice within such time periods, “Timely Notice”). In no event shall any adjournment or postponement of an annual meeting or the announcement thereof commence a new time period for the giving of Timely Notice as described above.

(c) To be in proper form for purposes of this Section 2.4, a stockholder’s notice to the Secretary of the Corporation shall set forth:

 

2


(i) As to each Proposing Person (as defined below), (A) the name and address of such Proposing Person (including, if applicable, the name and address that appear on the Corporation’s books and records); and (B) the class or series and number of shares of the Corporation that are, directly or indirectly, owned of record or beneficially owned (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act) by such Proposing Person, except that such Proposing Person shall in all events be deemed to beneficially own any shares of any class or series of the Corporation as to which such Proposing Person has a right to acquire beneficial ownership at any time in the future (the disclosures to be made pursuant to the foregoing clauses (A) and (B) are referred to as “Stockholder Information”);

(ii) As to each Proposing Person, (A) the full notional amount of any securities that, directly or indirectly, underlie any “derivative security” (as such term is defined in Rule 16a-1(c) under the Exchange Act) that constitutes a “call equivalent position” (as such term is defined in Rule 16a-1(b) under the Exchange Act) (“Synthetic Equity Position”) and that is, directly or indirectly, held or maintained by such Proposing Person with respect to any shares of any class or series of shares of the Corporation; provided that, for the purposes of the definition of “Synthetic Equity Position,” the term “derivative security” shall also include any security or instrument that would not otherwise constitute a “derivative security” as a result of any feature that would make any conversion, exercise or similar right or privilege of such security or instrument becoming determinable only at some future date or upon the happening of a future occurrence, in which case the determination of the amount of securities into which such security or instrument would be convertible or exercisable shall be made assuming that such security or instrument is immediately convertible or exercisable at the time of such determination; and, provided, further, that any Proposing Person satisfying the requirements of Rule 13d-1(b)(1) under the Exchange Act (other than a Proposing Person that so satisfies Rule 13d-1(b)(1) under the Exchange Act solely by reason of Rule 13d-1(b)(1)(ii)(E)) shall not be deemed to hold or maintain the notional amount of any securities that underlie a Synthetic Equity Position held by such Proposing Person as a hedge with respect to a bona fide derivatives trade or position of such Proposing Person arising in the ordinary course of such Proposing Person’s business as a derivatives dealer, (B) any rights to dividends on the shares of any class or series of shares of the Corporation owned beneficially by such Proposing Person that are separated or separable from the underlying shares of the Corporation, (C) any material pending or threatened legal proceeding in which such Proposing Person is a party or material participant involving the Corporation or any of its officers or directors, or any affiliate of the Corporation, (D) any other material relationship between such Proposing Person, on the one hand, and the Corporation or any affiliate of the Corporation, on the other hand, (E) any direct or indirect material interest in any material contract or agreement of such Proposing Person with the Corporation or any affiliate of the Corporation (including, in any such case, any employment agreement, collective bargaining agreement or consulting agreement), (F) a representation that such Proposing Person intends or is part of a group that intends to deliver a proxy statement or form of proxy to holders of at least the percentage of the Corporation’s outstanding capital stock required to approve or adopt the proposal or otherwise solicit proxies from stockholders in support of such proposal and (G) any other information relating to such Proposing Person that would be required to be disclosed in a proxy statement or other filing required to be made in connection with solicitations of proxies or consents by such Proposing Person in support of the business proposed to be brought before the meeting pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Exchange Act (the disclosures to be made pursuant to the foregoing clauses (A) through (G) are referred to as “Disclosable Interests”); provided, however, that Disclosable Interests shall not include any such disclosures with respect to the ordinary course business activities of any broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee who is a Proposing Person solely as a result of being the stockholder directed to prepare and submit the notice required by these bylaws on behalf of a beneficial owner; and

 

3


(iii) As to each item of business that the stockholder proposes to bring before the annual meeting, (A) a brief description of the business desired to be brought before the annual meeting, the reasons for conducting such business at the annual meeting and any material interest in such business of each Proposing Person, (B) the text of the proposal or business (including the text of any resolutions proposed for consideration and in the event that such business includes a proposal to amend the bylaws, the language of the proposed amendment), (C) a reasonably detailed description of all agreements, arrangements and understandings (x) between or among any of the Proposing Persons or (y) between or among any Proposing Person and any other person or entity (including their names) in connection with the proposal of such business by such stockholder, and (D) any other information relating to such item of business that would be required to be disclosed in a proxy statement or other filing required to be made in connection with solicitations of proxies in support of the business proposed to be brought before the meeting pursuant to Section 14(a) of the Exchange Act; provided, however, that the disclosures required by this Section 2.4(c)(iii) shall not include any disclosures with respect to any broker, dealer, commercial bank, trust company or other nominee who is a Proposing Person solely as a result of being the stockholder directed to prepare and submit the notice required by these bylaws on behalf of a beneficial owner.

For purposes of this Section 2.4, the term “Proposing Personshall mean (i) the stockholder providing the notice of business proposed to be brought before an annual meeting, (ii) the beneficial owner or beneficial owners, if different, on whose behalf the notice of the business proposed to be brought before the annual meeting is made, and (iii) any participant (as defined in paragraphs (a)(ii)-(vi) of Instruction 3 to Item 4 of Schedule 14A) with such stockholder in such solicitation.

(d) A Proposing Person shall update and supplement its notice to the Corporation of its intent to propose business at an annual meeting, if necessary, so that the information provided or required to be provided in such notice pursuant to this Section 2.4 shall be true and correct as of the record date for stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting and as of the date that is ten (10) business days prior to the meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof, and such update and supplement shall be delivered to, or mailed and received by, the Secretary of the Corporation at the principal executive offices of the Corporation not later than five (5) business days after the record date for stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting (in the case of the update and supplement required to be made as of such record date), and not later than eight (8) business days prior to the date for the meeting or, if practicable, any adjournment or postponement thereof (and, if not practicable, on the first practicable date prior to the date to which the meeting has been adjourned or postponed) (in the case of the update and supplement required to be made as of ten (10) business days prior to the meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof). For the avoidance of doubt, the obligation to update and supplement as set forth in this paragraph or any other Section of these bylaws shall not limit the Corporation’s rights with respect to any deficiencies in any notice provided by a stockholder, extend any applicable deadlines hereunder or enable or be deemed to permit a stockholder who has previously submitted notice hereunder to amend or update any proposal or to submit any new proposal, including by changing or adding matters, business or resolutions proposed to be brought before a meeting of the stockholders.

(e) Notwithstanding anything in these bylaws to the contrary, no business shall be conducted at an annual meeting that is not properly brought before the meeting in accordance with this Section 2.4. The presiding officer of the meeting shall, if the facts warrant, determine that the business was not properly brought before the meeting in accordance with this Section 2.4, and if he or she should so determine, he or she shall so declare to the meeting and any such business not properly brought before the meeting shall not be transacted.

(f) This Section 2.4 is expressly intended to apply to any business proposed to be brought before an annual meeting of stockholders other than any proposal made in accordance with Rule 14a-8 under the

 

4


Exchange Act and included in the Corporation’s proxy statement. In addition to the requirements of this Section 2.4 with respect to any business proposed to be brought before an annual meeting, each Proposing Person shall comply with all applicable requirements of the Exchange Act with respect to any such business. Nothing in this Section 2.4 shall be deemed to affect the rights of stockholders to request inclusion of proposals in the Corporation’s proxy statement pursuant to Rule 14a-8 under the Exchange Act.

(g) For purposes of these bylaws, “public disclosure” shall mean disclosure in a press release reported by a national news service or in a document publicly filed by the Corporation with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Sections 13, 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act.

2.5 Notice of Nominations for Election to the Board.

(a) Nominations of any person for election to the Board at an annual meeting or at a special meeting (but only if the election of directors is a matter specified in the notice of meeting given by or at the direction of the person calling such special meeting) may be made at such meeting only (i) by or at the direction of the Board, including by any committee or persons authorized to do so by the Board or these bylaws, or (ii) by a stockholder present in person (A) who was a record owner of shares of the Corporation both at the time of giving the notice provided for in this Section 2.5 and at the time of the meeting, (B) is entitled to vote at the meeting, and (C) has complied with this Section 2.5 as to such notice and nomination. For purposes of this Section 2.5, “present in person” shall mean that the stockholder proposing that the business be brought before the meeting of the Corporation, or a qualified representative of such stockholder, appear at such meeting in person, or by remote communication, if applicable. A “qualified representative” of such proposing stockholder shall be a duly authorized officer, manager or partner of such stockholder or any other person authorized by a writing executed by such stockholder or an electronic transmission delivered by such stockholder to act for such stockholder as proxy at the meeting of stockholders and such person must produce such writing or electronic transmission, or a reliable reproduction of the writing or electronic transmission, at the meeting of stockholders. The foregoing clause (iii) shall be the exclusive means for a stockholder to make any nomination of a person or persons for election to the Board at an annual meeting or special meeting.

(b) (i) For a stockholder to make any nomination of a person or persons for election to the Board at an annual meeting, the stockholder must (1) provide Timely Notice (as defined in Section 2.4) thereof in writing and in proper form to the Secretary of the Corporation, (2) provide the information, agreements and questionnaires with respect to such stockholder and its candidate for nomination as required to be set forth by this Section 2.5 and (3) provide any updates or supplements to such notice at the times and in the forms required by this Section 2.5.

(ii) If the election of directors is a matter specified in the notice of meeting given by or at the direction of the person calling a special meeting, then for a stockholder to make any nomination of a person or persons for election to the Board at a special meeting, the stockholder must (i) provide Timely Notice thereof in writing and in proper form to the Secretary of the Corporation at the principal executive offices of the Corporation, (ii) provide the information with respect to such stockholder and its candidate for nomination as required by this Section 2.5 and (iii) provide any updates or supplements to such notice at the times and in the forms required by this Section 2.5. To be timely, a stockholder’s notice for nominations to be made at a special meeting must be delivered to, or mailed and received at, the principal executive offices of the Corporation not earlier than the one hundred twentieth (120th) day prior to such special meeting and not later than the ninetieth (90th) day prior to such special meeting or, if later, the tenth (10th) day following the day on which public disclosure (as defined in Section 2.4) of the date of such special meeting was first made.

 

5


(iii) In no event shall any adjournment or postponement of an annual meeting or special meeting or the announcement thereof commence a new time period for the giving of a stockholder’s notice as described above.

(iv) In no event may a Nominating Person provide Timely Notice with respect to a greater number of director candidates than are subject to election by stockholders at the applicable meeting. If the Corporation shall, subsequent to such notice, increase the number of directors subject to election at the meeting, such notice as to any additional nominees shall be due on the later of (i) the conclusion of the time period for Timely Notice, (ii) the date set forth in Section 2.5(b)(ii) or (iii) the tenth day following the date of public disclosure (as defined in Section 2.4) of such increase.

(c) To be in proper form for purposes of this Section 2.5, a stockholder’s notice to the Secretary of the Corporation shall set forth:

(i) As to each Nominating Person (as defined below), the Stockholder Information (as defined in Section 2.4(c)(i), except that for purposes of this Section 2.5, the term “Nominating Person” shall be substituted for the term “Proposing Person” in all places it appears in Section 2.4(c)(i));

(ii) As to each Nominating Person, any Disclosable Interests (as defined in Section 2.4(c)(ii), except that for purposes of this Section 2.5, the term “Nominating Person” shall be substituted for the term “Proposing Person” in all places it appears in Section 2.4(c)(ii) and the disclosure with respect to the business to be brought before the meeting in Section 2.4(c)(ii) shall be made with respect to the election of directors at the meeting); and

(iii) As to each candidate whom a Nominating Person proposes to nominate for election as a director, (A) all information with respect to such candidate for nomination that would be required to be set forth in a stockholder’s notice pursuant to this Section 2.5 if such candidate for nomination were a Nominating Person, (B) all information relating to such candidate for nomination that is required to be disclosed in a proxy statement or other filings required to be made in connection with solicitations of proxies for election of directors in a contested election pursuant to Section 14(a) under the Exchange Act (including such candidate’s written consent to being named in the proxy statement as a nominee and to serving as a director if elected), (C) a description of any direct or indirect material interest in any material contract or agreement between or among any Nominating Person, on the one hand, and each candidate for nomination or his or her respective associates or any other participants in such solicitation, on the other hand, including, without limitation, all information that would be required to be disclosed pursuant to Item 404 under Regulation S-K if such Nominating Person were the “registrant” for purposes of such rule and the candidate for nomination were a director or executive officer of such registrant and (D) a completed and signed questionnaire, representation and agreement as provided in Section 2.5(f).

For purposes of this Section 2.5, the term “Nominating Person” shall mean (i) the stockholder providing the notice of the nomination proposed to be made at the meeting, (ii) the beneficial owner or beneficial owners, if different, on whose behalf the notice of the nomination proposed to be made at the meeting is made, and (iii) any other participant in such solicitation.

(d) A stockholder providing notice of any nomination proposed to be made at a meeting shall further update and supplement such notice, if necessary, so that the information provided or required to be provided in such notice pursuant to this Section 2.5 shall be true and correct as of the record date for stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting and as of the date that is ten (10) business days prior to the meeting

 

6


or any adjournment or postponement thereof, and such update and supplement shall be delivered to, or mailed and received by, the Secretary of the Corporation at the principal executive offices of the Corporation not later than five (5) business days after the record date for stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting (in the case of the update and supplement required to be made as of such record date), and not later than eight (8) business days prior to the date for the meeting or, if practicable, any adjournment or postponement thereof (and, if not practicable, on the first practicable date prior to the date to which the meeting has been adjourned or postponed) (in the case of the update and supplement required to be made as of ten (10) business days prior to the meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof). For the avoidance of doubt, the obligation to update and supplement as set forth in this paragraph or any other Section of these bylaws shall not limit the Corporation’s rights with respect to any deficiencies in any notice provided by a stockholder, extend any applicable deadlines hereunder or enable or be deemed to permit a stockholder who has previously submitted notice hereunder to amend or update any nomination or to submit any new nomination.

(e) In addition to the requirements of this Section 2.5 with respect to any nomination proposed to be made at a meeting, each Nominating Person shall comply with all applicable requirements of the Exchange Act with respect to any such nominations.

(f) To be eligible to be a candidate for election as a director of the Corporation at an annual or special meeting, a candidate must be nominated in the manner prescribed in Section 2.5 and the candidate for nomination, whether nominated by the Board or by a stockholder of record, must have previously delivered (in accordance with the time period prescribed for delivery in a notice to such candidate given by or on behalf of the Board), to the Secretary of the Corporation at the principal executive offices of the Corporation, (i) a completed written questionnaire (in a form provided by the Corporation) with respect to the background, qualifications, stock ownership and independence of such proposed nominee and (ii) a written representation and agreement (in form provided by the Corporation) that such candidate for nomination (A) is not and, if elected as a director during his or her term of office, will not become a party to (1) any agreement, arrangement or understanding with, and has not given and will not give any commitment or assurance to, any person or entity as to how such proposed nominee, if elected as a director of the Corporation, will act or vote on any issue or question (a “Voting Commitment”) or (2) any Voting Commitment that could limit or interfere with such proposed nominee’s ability to comply, if elected as a director of the Corporation, with such proposed nominee’s fiduciary duties under applicable law, (B) is not, and will not become a party to, any agreement, arrangement or understanding with any person or entity other than the Corporation with respect to any direct or indirect compensation or reimbursement for service as a director that has not been disclosed to the Corporation and (C) if elected as a director of the Corporation, will comply with all applicable corporate governance, conflict of interest, confidentiality, stock ownership and trading and other policies and guidelines of the Corporation applicable to directors and in effect during such person’s term in office as a director (and, if requested by any candidate for nomination, the Secretary of the Corporation shall provide to such candidate for nomination all such policies and guidelines then in effect).

(g) The Board may also require any proposed candidate for nomination as a Director to furnish such other information as may reasonably be requested by the Board in writing prior to the meeting of stockholders at which such candidate’s nomination is to be acted upon in order for the Board to determine the eligibility of such candidate for nomination to be an independent director of the Corporation in accordance with the Corporation’s corporate governance guidelines.

(h) A candidate for nomination as a director shall further update and supplement the materials delivered pursuant to this Section 2.5, if necessary, so that the information provided or required to be provided pursuant to this Section 2.5 shall be true and correct as of the record date for stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting and as of the date that is ten (10) business days prior to the meeting or any adjournment or

 

7


postponement thereof, and such update and supplement shall be delivered to, or mailed and received by, the Secretary of the Corporation at the principal executive offices of the Corporation (or any other office specified by the Corporation in any public announcement) not later than five (5) business days after the record date for stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting (in the case of the update and supplement required to be made as of such record date), and not later than eight (8) business days prior to the date for the meeting or, if practicable, any adjournment or postponement thereof (and, if not practicable, on the first practicable date prior to the date to which the meeting has been adjourned or postponed) (in the case of the update and supplement required to be made as of ten (10) business days prior to the meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof). For the avoidance of doubt, the obligation to update and supplement as set forth in this paragraph or any other Section of these bylaws shall not limit the Corporation’s rights with respect to any deficiencies in any materials delivered pursuant to this Section 2.5 by a candidate for director , extend any applicable deadlines hereunder or enable or be deemed to permit a stockholder who has previously submitted notice hereunder to amend or update any proposal or to submit any new proposal, including by changing or adding nominees, matters, business or resolutions proposed to amend or update any nomination or to submit any new nomination.

(i) No candidate shall be eligible for nomination as a director of the Corporation unless such candidate for nomination and the Nominating Person seeking to place such candidate’s name in nomination has complied with this Section 2.5. The presiding officer at the meeting shall, if the facts warrant, determine that a nomination was not properly made in accordance with Section 2.5, and if he or she should so determine, he or she shall so declare such determination to the meeting, the defective nomination shall be disregarded and any ballots cast for the candidate in question (but in the case of any form of ballot listing other qualified nominees, only the votes cast for the nominee in question) shall be void and of no force or effect.

(j) Notwithstanding anything in these bylaws to the contrary, no candidate for nomination shall be eligible to be seated as a director of the Corporation unless nominated and elected in accordance with Section 2.5.

2.6 Notice of Stockholders Meetings.

Unless otherwise provided by law, the Certificate of Incorporation or these bylaws, the notice of any meeting of stockholders shall be sent or otherwise given in accordance with Section 8.1 not less than ten (10) nor more than sixty (60) days before the date of the meeting to each stockholder entitled to vote at such meeting. The notice shall specify the place, if any, date and time of the meeting, the means of remote communication, if any, by which stockholders and proxy holders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such meeting, and, in the case of a special meeting, the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called.

2.7 Quorum.

Unless otherwise provided by law, the Certificate of Incorporation or these bylaws, the holders of a majority in voting power of the stock issued and outstanding and entitled to vote, present in person, or by remote communication, if applicable, or represented by proxy, shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at all meetings of the stockholders. A quorum, once established at a meeting, shall not be broken by the withdrawal of enough votes to leave less than a quorum. If, however, a quorum is not present or represented at any meeting of the stockholders, then either (i) the person presiding over the meeting or (ii) a majority in voting power of the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting, present in person, or by remote communication, if applicable, or represented by proxy, shall have power to recess the meeting or adjourn the meeting from time to time in the manner provided in Section 2.8 until a quorum is present or represented. At any recessed or adjourned meeting at which a quorum is present or represented, any business may be transacted that might have been transacted at the meeting as originally noticed.

 

8


2.8 Adjourned Meeting; Notice.

When a meeting is adjourned to another time or place, unless these bylaws otherwise require, notice need not be given of the adjourned meeting if the time, place, if any, thereof, and the means of remote communications, if any, by which stockholders and proxy holders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such adjourned meeting are announced at the meeting at which the adjournment is taken. At any adjourned meeting, the Corporation may transact any business which might have been transacted at the original meeting. If the adjournment is for more than thirty (30) days, a notice of the adjourned meeting shall be given to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at the meeting. If after the adjournment a new record date for determination of stockholders entitled to vote is fixed for the adjourned meeting, the Board shall fix as the record date for determining stockholders entitled to notice of such adjourned meeting the same or an earlier date as that fixed for determination of stockholders entitled to vote at the adjourned meeting, and shall give notice of the adjourned meeting to each stockholder of record entitled to vote at such meeting as of the record date so fixed for notice of such adjourned meeting.

2.9 Conduct of Business.

The date and time of the opening and the closing of the polls for each matter upon which the stockholders will vote at a meeting shall be announced at the meeting by the person presiding over the meeting. The Board may adopt by resolution such rules and regulations for the conduct of the meeting of stockholders as it shall deem appropriate. At every meeting of the stockholders, the Chairperson of the Board, or in his or her absence or inability to act, the Chief Executive Officer, or in his or her absence or inability to act, the officer or director whom the Board shall appoint, shall act as chairperson of, and preside at the meeting. Except to the extent inconsistent with such rules and regulations as adopted by the Board, the person presiding over any meeting of stockholders shall have the right and authority to convene and (for any or no reason) to recess and/or adjourn the meeting, to prescribe such rules, regulations and procedures (which need not be in writing) and to do all such acts as, in the judgment of such presiding person, are appropriate for the proper conduct of the meeting. Such rules, regulations or procedures, whether adopted by the Board or prescribed by the person presiding over the meeting, may include, without limitation, the following: (i) the establishment of an agenda or order of business for the meeting; (ii) rules and procedures for maintaining order at the meeting and the safety of those present (including, without limitation, rules and procedures for removal of disruptive persons from the meeting); (iii) limitations on attendance at or participation in the meeting to stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting, their duly authorized and constituted proxies or such other persons as the person presiding over the meeting shall determine; (iv) restrictions on entry to the meeting after the time fixed for the commencement thereof; and (v) limitations on the time allotted to questions or comments by participants. The presiding person at any meeting of stockholders, in addition to making any other determinations that may be appropriate to the conduct of the meeting (including, without limitation, determinations with respect to the administration and/or interpretation of any of the rules, regulations or procedures of the meeting, whether adopted by the Board or prescribed by the person presiding over the meeting), shall, if the facts warrant, determine and declare to the meeting that a matter of business was not properly brought before the meeting and if such presiding person should so determine, such presiding person shall so declare to the meeting and any such matter or business not properly brought before the meeting shall not be transacted or considered. Unless and to the extent determined by the Board or the person presiding over the meeting, meetings of stockholders shall not be required to be held in accordance with the rules of parliamentary procedure.

2.10 Voting.

Except as may be otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, these bylaws or the DGCL, each stockholder shall be entitled to one (1) vote for each share of capital stock held by such stockholder.

 

9


Except as otherwise provided by the Certificate of Incorporation, at all duly called or convened meetings of stockholders at which a quorum is present, for the election of directors, a plurality of the votes cast shall be sufficient to elect a director. Except as otherwise provided by the Certificate of Incorporation, these bylaws, the rules or regulations of any stock exchange applicable to the Corporation, or applicable law or pursuant to any regulation applicable to the Corporation or its securities, each other matter presented to the stockholders at a duly called or convened meeting at which a quorum is present shall be decided by the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority in voting power of the votes cast (excluding abstentions and broker non-votes) on such matter.

2.11 Record Date for Stockholder Meetings and Other Purposes.

In order that the Corporation may determine the stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at any meeting of stockholders or any adjournment thereof, the Board may fix a record date, which record date shall not precede the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted by the Board, and which record date shall, unless otherwise required by law, not be more than sixty (60) days nor less than ten (10) days before the date of such meeting. If the Board so fixes a date, such date shall also be the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to vote at such meeting unless the Board determines, at the time it fixes such record date, that a later date on or before the date of the meeting shall be the date for making such determination. If no record date is fixed by the Board, the record date for determining stockholders entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall be the close of business on the next day preceding the day on which notice is first given, or, if notice is waived, at the close of business on the day next preceding the day on which the meeting is held. A determination of stockholders of record entitled to notice of or to vote at a meeting of stockholders shall apply to any adjournment of the meeting; provided, however, that the Board may fix a new record date for determination of stockholders entitled to vote at the adjourned meeting; and in such case shall also fix as the record date for stockholders entitled to notice of such adjourned meeting the same or an earlier date as that fixed for determination of stockholders entitled to vote in accordance herewith at the adjourned meeting.

In order that the Corporation may determine the stockholders entitled to receive payment of any dividend or other distribution or allotment or any rights or the stockholders entitled to exercise any rights in respect of any change, conversion or exchange of capital stock, or for the purposes of any other lawful action, the Board may fix a record date, which record date shall not precede the date upon which the resolution fixing the record date is adopted, and which record date shall be not more than sixty (60) days prior to such action. If no record date is fixed, the record date for determining stockholders for any such purpose shall be at the close of business on the day on which the Board adopts the resolution relating thereto.

2.12 Proxies.

Each stockholder entitled to vote at a meeting of stockholders may authorize another person or persons to act for such stockholder by proxy authorized by an instrument in writing or by a transmission permitted by law filed in accordance with the procedure established for the meeting, but no such proxy shall be voted or acted upon after three (3) years from its date, unless the proxy provides for a longer period. The revocability of a proxy that states on its face that it is irrevocable shall be governed by the provisions of Section 212 of the DGCL. A proxy may be in the form of an electronic transmission which sets forth or is submitted with information from which it can be determined that the transmission was authorized by the stockholder.

 

10


2.13 List of Stockholders Entitled to Vote.

The Corporation shall prepare, at least ten (10) days before every meeting of stockholders, a complete list of the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting (provided, however, that if the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to vote is less than ten (10) days before the date of the meeting, the list shall reflect the stockholders entitled to vote as of the tenth (10th) day before the meeting date), arranged in alphabetical order, and showing the address of each stockholder and the number of shares registered in the name of each stockholder. The Corporation shall not be required to include electronic mail addresses or other electronic contact information on such list. Such list shall be open to the examination of any stockholder, for any purpose germane to the meeting for a period of at least ten (10) days prior to the meeting: (i) on a reasonably accessible electronic network, provided that the information required to gain access to such list is provided with the notice of the meeting, or (ii) during ordinary business hours, at the Corporation’s principal executive office. In the event that the Corporation determines to make the list available on an electronic network, the Corporation may take reasonable steps to ensure that such information is available only to stockholders of the Corporation. If the meeting is to be held at a place, then the list shall be produced and kept at the time and place of the meeting during the whole time thereof, and may be inspected by any stockholder who is present. If the meeting is to be held solely by means of remote communication, then the list shall also be open to the examination of any stockholder during the whole time of the meeting on a reasonably accessible electronic network, and the information required to access such list shall be provided with the notice of the meeting. Such list shall presumptively determine the identity of the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting and the number of shares held by each of them. Except as otherwise provided by law, the stock ledger shall be the only evidence as to who are the stockholders entitled to examine the list of stockholders required by this Section 2.13 or to vote in person or by proxy at any meeting of stockholders.

2.14 Inspectors of Election.

Before any meeting of stockholders, the Corporation shall appoint an inspector or inspectors of election to act at the meeting or its adjournment and make a written report thereof. The Corporation may designate one or more persons as alternate inspectors to replace any inspector who fails to act. If any person appointed as inspector or any alternate fails to appear or fails or refuses to act, then the person presiding over the meeting shall appoint a person to fill that vacancy.

Such inspectors shall:

(i) determine the number of shares outstanding and the voting power of each, the number of shares represented at the meeting and the validity of any proxies and ballots;

(ii) count all votes or ballots;

(iii) count and tabulate all votes;

(iv) determine and retain for a reasonable period a record of the disposition of any challenges made to any determination by the inspector(s); and

(v) certify its or their determination of the number of shares represented at the meeting and its or their count of all votes and ballots.

Each inspector, before entering upon the discharge of the duties of inspector, shall take and sign an oath faithfully to execute the duties of inspection with strict impartiality and according to the best of such inspector’s

 

11


ability. Any report or certificate made by the inspectors of election is prima facie evidence of the facts stated therein. The inspectors of election may appoint such persons to assist them in performing their duties as they determine.

2.15 Delivery to the Corporation.

Whenever this ARTICLE II -  requires one or more persons (including a record or beneficial owner of stock) to deliver a document or information to the Corporation or any officer, employee or agent thereof (including any notice, request, questionnaire, revocation, representation or other document or agreement), such document or information shall be in writing exclusively (and not in an electronic transmission) and shall be delivered exclusively by hand (including, without limitation, overnight courier service) or by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, and the Corporation shall not be required to accept delivery of any document not in such written form or so delivered. For the avoidance of doubt, the Corporation expressly opts out of Section 116 of the DGCL with respect to the delivery of information and documents to the Corporation required by this ARTICLE II - .

2.16 Stockholder Action by Written Consent Without a Meeting.

Any action required or permitted to be taken by the stockholders of the Corporation must be effected at an annual or special meeting of stockholders of the Corporation, and may not be taken by written consent in lieu of a meeting. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any action required or permitted to be taken by the holders of any series of preferred stock of the Corporation, voting separately as a series or separately as a class with one or more other such series, may be taken without a meeting, without prior notice and without a vote, to the extent expressly so provided by the applicable certificate of designation relating to such series of preferred stock of the Corporation, if a consent or consents in writing, setting forth the action so taken, shall be signed by the holders of outstanding shares of the relevant series of preferred stock of the Corporation having not less than the minimum number of votes that would be necessary to authorize or take such action at a meeting at which all shares entitled to vote thereon were present and voted and shall be delivered to the Corporation in accordance with the applicable provisions of the DGCL.

ARTICLE III - Directors

3.1 Powers.

Except as otherwise provided by the Certificate of Incorporation or the DGCL, the business and affairs of the Corporation shall be managed by or under the direction of the Board.

3.2 Number of Directors.

Subject to the Certificate of Incorporation, the total number of directors constituting the Board shall be determined from time to time by resolution of the Board. No reduction of the authorized number of directors shall have the effect of removing any director before that director’s term of office expires.

3.3 Election, Qualification and Term of Office of Directors.

Except as provided in Section 3.4, and subject to the Certificate of Incorporation, each director, including a director elected to fill a vacancy or newly created directorship, shall hold office until the expiration of the term of the class, if any, for which elected and until such director’s successor is elected and qualified or

 

12


until such director’s earlier death, resignation, disqualification or removal. Directors need not be stockholders. The Certificate of Incorporation or these bylaws may prescribe qualifications for directors.

3.4 Resignation and Vacancies.

Any director may resign at any time upon notice given in writing or by electronic transmission to the Corporation. The resignation shall take effect at the time specified therein or upon the happening of an event specified therein, and if no time or event is specified, at the time of its receipt. When one or more directors so resigns and the resignation is effective at a future date or upon the happening of an event to occur on a future date, a majority of the directors then in office, including those who have so resigned, shall have power to fill such vacancy or vacancies, the vote thereon to take effect when such resignation or resignations shall become effective, and each director so chosen shall hold office as provided in Section 3.3.

Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation or these bylaws, vacancies resulting from the death, resignation, disqualification or removal of any director, and newly created directorships resulting from any increase in the authorized number of directors shall be filled only by a majority of the directors then in office, although less than a quorum, or by a sole remaining director. Any director elected in accordance with the preceding sentence shall hold office for the remainder of the full term of the director for which the vacancy was created or occurred and until such director’s successor shall have been elected and qualified.

3.5 Place of Meetings; Meetings by Telephone.

The Board may hold meetings, both regular and special, either within or outside the State of Delaware.

Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation or these bylaws, members of the Board, or any committee designated by the Board, may participate in a meeting of the Board, or any committee, by means of conference telephone or other communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other, and such participation in a meeting pursuant to this bylaw shall constitute presence in person at the meeting.

3.6 Regular Meetings.

Regular meetings of the Board may be held within or outside the State of Delaware and at such time and at such place as which has been designated by the Board and publicized among all directors, either orally or in writing, by telephone, including a voice-messaging system or other system designed to record and communicate messages, facsimile, telegraph or telex, or by electronic mail or other means of electronic transmission. No further notice shall be required for regular meetings of the Board.

3.7 Special Meetings; Notice.

Special meetings of the Board for any purpose or purposes may be called at any time by the Chairperson of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer, the President or the Secretary of the Corporation or a majority of the total number of directors constituting the Board.

Notice of the time and place of special meetings shall be:

(i) delivered personally by hand, by courier or by telephone;

(ii) sent by United States first-class mail, postage prepaid;

 

13


(iii) sent by facsimile or electronic mail; or

(iv) sent by other means of electronic transmission,

directed to each director at that director’s address, telephone number, facsimile number or electronic mail address, or other address for electronic transmission, as the case may be, as shown on the Corporation’s records.

If the notice is (i) delivered personally by hand, by courier or by telephone, (ii) sent by facsimile or electronic mail, or (iii) sent by other means of electronic transmission, it shall be delivered or sent at least twenty-four (24) hours before the time of the holding of the meeting. If the notice is sent by U.S. mail, it shall be deposited in the U.S. mail at least four (4) days before the time of the holding of the meeting. The notice need not specify the place of the meeting (if the meeting is to be held at the Corporation’s principal executive office) nor the purpose of the meeting.

3.8 Quorum.

At all meetings of the Board, unless otherwise provided by the Certificate of Incorporation, a majority of the total number of directors shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. The vote of a majority of the directors present at any meeting at which a quorum is present shall be the act of the Board, except as may be otherwise specifically provided by statute, the Certificate of Incorporation or these bylaws. If a quorum is not present at any meeting of the Board, then the directors present thereat may adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum is present.

3.9 Board Action without a Meeting.

Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation or these bylaws, any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board, or of any committee thereof, may be taken without a meeting if all members of the Board or committee, as the case may be, consent thereto in writing or by electronic transmission. After an action is taken, the consent or consents relating thereto shall be filed with the minutes of the proceedings of the Board, or the committee thereof, in the same paper or electronic form as the minutes are maintained. Such action by written consent or consent by electronic transmission shall have the same force and effect as a unanimous vote of the Board.

3.10 Fees and Compensation of Directors.

Unless otherwise restricted by the Certificate of Incorporation or these bylaws, the Board shall have the authority to fix the compensation, including fees and reimbursement of expenses, of directors for services to the Corporation in any capacity.

3.11 Removal of Directors.

Subject to the special rights of the holders of one or more outstanding series of preferred stock of the Corporation to elect directors, the Board or any individual director may be removed from office at any time, but only for cause and only by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds (66 and 2/3%) of the voting power of all the then outstanding shares of voting stock of the Corporation entitled to vote at an election of directors.

 

14


ARTICLE IV - Committees

4.1 Committees of Directors.

The Board may designate one (1) or more committees, each committee to consist of one (1) or more of the directors of the Corporation. The Board may designate one (1) or more directors as alternate members of any committee, who may replace any absent or disqualified member at any meeting of the committee. In the absence or disqualification of a member of a committee, the member or members thereof present at any meeting and not disqualified from voting, whether or not such member or members constitute a quorum, may unanimously appoint another member of the Board to act at the meeting in the place of any such absent or disqualified member. Any such committee, to the extent provided in the resolution of the Board or in these bylaws, shall have and may exercise all the powers and authority of the Board in the management of the business and affairs of the Corporation, and may authorize the seal of the Corporation to be affixed to all papers that may require it; but no such committee shall have the power or authority to (i) approve or adopt, or recommend to the stockholders, any action or matter expressly required by the DGCL to be submitted to stockholders for approval, or (ii) adopt, amend or repeal any bylaw of the Corporation.

4.2 Committee Minutes.

Each committee shall keep regular minutes of its meetings and report the same to the Board when required.

4.3 Meetings and Actions of Committees.

Meetings and actions of committees shall be governed by, and held and taken in accordance with, the provisions of:

(i) Section 3.5 (Place of Meetings; Meetings by Telephone);

(ii) Section 3.6 (Regular Meetings);

(iii) Section 3.7 (Special Meetings; Notice);

(iv) Section 3.9 (Board Action Without a Meeting); and

(v) Section 7.13 (Waiver of Notice),

with such changes in the context of those bylaws as are necessary to substitute the committee and its members for the Board and its members; provided, however, that:

(i) the time of regular meetings of committees may be determined either by resolution of the Board or by resolution of the committee;

(ii) special meetings of committees may also be called by resolution of the Board or the chairperson of the applicable committee; and

(iii) the Board may adopt rules for the governance of any committee to override the provisions that would otherwise apply to the committee pursuant to this Section 4.3, provided that such rules do not violate the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation or applicable law.

 

15


4.4 Subcommittees.

Unless otherwise provided in the Certificate of Incorporation, these bylaws or the resolutions of the Board designating the committee, a committee may create one (1) or more subcommittees, each subcommittee to consist of one (1) or more members of the committee, and delegate to a subcommittee any or all of the powers and authority of the committee.

ARTICLE V - Officers

5.1 Officers.

The officers of the Corporation shall include a Chief Executive Officer, a President and a Secretary. The Corporation may also have, at the discretion of the Board, a Chairperson of the Board, a Vice Chairperson of the Board, a Chief Financial Officer, a Treasurer, one (1) or more Vice Presidents, one (1) or more Assistant Vice Presidents, one (1) or more Assistant Treasurers, one (1) or more Assistant Secretaries, and any such other officers as may be appointed in accordance with the provisions of these bylaws. Any number of offices may be held by the same person. No officer need be a stockholder or director of the Corporation.

5.2 Appointment of Officers.

The Board shall appoint the officers of the Corporation, except such officers as may be appointed in accordance with the provisions of Section 5.3.

5.3 Subordinate Officers.

The Board may appoint, or empower the Chief Executive Officer or, in the absence of a Chief Executive Officer, the President, to appoint, such other officers and agents as the business of the Corporation may require. Each of such officers and agents shall hold office for such period, have such authority, and perform such duties as are provided in these bylaws or as the Board may from time to time determine.

5.4 Removal and Resignation of Officers.

Subject to the rights, if any, of an officer under any contract of employment any officer may be removed, either with or without cause, by the Board or, except in the case of an officer chosen by the Board, by any officer upon whom such power of removal may be conferred by the Board.

Any officer may resign at any time by giving written notice to the Corporation. Any resignation shall take effect at the date of the receipt of that notice or at any later time specified in that notice. Unless otherwise specified in the notice of resignation, the acceptance of the resignation shall not be necessary to make it effective. Any resignation is without prejudice to the rights, if any, of the Corporation under any contract to which the officer is a party.

5.5 Vacancies in Offices.

Any vacancy occurring in any office of the Corporation shall be filled by the Board or as provided in Section 5.2.

 

16


5.6 Representation of Shares of Other Corporations.

The Chairperson of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer, or the President of this Corporation, or any other person authorized by the Board, the Chief Executive Officer or the President, is authorized to vote, represent and exercise on behalf of this Corporation all rights incident to any and all shares or voting securities of any other corporation or other person standing in the name of this Corporation. The authority granted herein may be exercised either by such person directly or by any other person authorized to do so by proxy or power of attorney duly executed by such person having the authority.

5.7 Authority and Duties of Officers.

All officers of the Corporation shall respectively have such authority and perform such duties in the management of the business of the Corporation as may be provided herein or designated from time to time by the Board and, to the extent not so provided, as generally pertain to their respective offices, subject to the control of the Board.

5.8 Compensation.

The compensation of the officers of the Corporation for their services as such shall be fixed from time to time by or at the direction of the Board. An officer of the Corporation shall not be prevented from receiving compensation by reason of the fact that he or she is also a director of the Corporation.

ARTICLE VI - Records

A stock ledger consisting of one or more records in which the names of all of the Corporation’s stockholders of record, the address and number of shares registered in the name of each such stockholder, and all issuances and transfers of stock of the corporation are recorded in accordance with Section 224 of the DGCL shall be administered by or on behalf of the Corporation. Any records administered by or on behalf of the Corporation in the regular course of its business, including its stock ledger, books of account, and minute books, may be kept on, or by means of, or be in the form of, any information storage device, or method, or one or more electronic networks or databases (including one or more distributed electronic networks or databases), provided that the records so kept can be converted into clearly legible paper form within a reasonable time and, with respect to the stock ledger, that the records so kept (i) can be used to prepare the list of stockholders specified in Sections 219 and 220 of the DGCL, (ii) record the information specified in Sections 156, 159, 217(a) and 218 of the DGCL, and (iii) record transfers of stock as governed by Article 8 of the Uniform Commercial Code as adopted in the State of Delaware.

ARTICLE VII - General Matters

7.1 Execution of Corporate Contracts and Instruments.

The Board, except as otherwise provided in these bylaws, may authorize any officer or officers, or agent or agents, to enter into any contract or execute any instrument in the name of and on behalf of the Corporation; such authority may be general or confined to specific instances.

 

17


7.2 Stock Certificates.

The shares of the Corporation shall be represented by certificates or shall be uncertificated. Certificates for the shares of stock, if any, shall be in such form as is consistent with the Certificate of Incorporation and applicable law. Every holder of stock represented by a certificate shall be entitled to have a certificate signed by, or in the name of the Corporation by, any two officers authorized to sign stock certificates representing the number of shares registered in certificate form. The Chairperson or Vice Chairperson of the Board, the Chief Executive Officer, the President, Vice President, the Treasurer, any Assistant Treasurer, the Secretary or any Assistant Secretary of the Corporation shall be specifically authorized to sign stock certificates. Any or all of the signatures on the certificate may be a facsimile. In case any officer, transfer agent or registrar who has signed or whose facsimile signature has been placed upon a certificate has ceased to be such officer, transfer agent or registrar before such certificate is issued, it may be issued by the Corporation with the same effect as if he or she were such officer, transfer agent or registrar at the date of issue.

The Corporation may issue the whole or any part of its shares as partly paid and subject to call for the remainder of the consideration to be paid therefor. Upon the face or back of each stock certificate issued to represent any such partly paid shares, or upon the books and records of the Corporation in the case of uncertificated partly paid shares, the total amount of the consideration to be paid therefor and the amount paid thereon shall be stated. Upon the declaration of any dividend on fully paid shares, the Corporation shall declare a dividend upon partly paid shares of the same class, but only upon the basis of the percentage of the consideration actually paid thereon.

7.3 Special Designation of Certificates.

If the Corporation is authorized to issue more than one class of stock or more than one series of any class, then the powers, the designations, the preferences and the relative, participating, optional or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights shall be set forth in full or summarized on the face or on the back of the certificate that the Corporation shall issue to represent such class or series of stock (or, in the case of uncertificated shares, set forth in a notice provided pursuant to Section 151 of the DGCL); provided, however, that except as otherwise provided in Section 202 of the DGCL, in lieu of the foregoing requirements, there may be set forth on the face of back of the certificate that the Corporation shall issue to represent such class or series of stock (or, in the case of any uncertificated shares, included in the aforementioned notice) a statement that the Corporation will furnish without charge to each stockholder who so requests the powers, the designations, the preferences and the relative, participating, optional or other special rights of each class of stock or series thereof and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such preferences and/or rights.

7.4 Lost Certificates.

Except as provided in this Section 7.4, no new certificates for shares shall be issued to replace a previously issued certificate unless the latter is surrendered to the Corporation and cancelled at the same time. The Corporation may issue a new certificate of stock or uncertificated shares in the place of any certificate theretofore issued by it, alleged to have been lost, stolen or destroyed, and the Corporation may require the owner of the lost, stolen or destroyed certificate, or such owner’s legal representative, to give the Corporation a bond sufficient to indemnify it against any claim that may be made against it on account of the alleged loss, theft or destruction of any such certificate or the issuance of such new certificate or uncertificated shares.

 

18


7.5 Shares Without Certificates

The Corporation may adopt a system of issuance, recordation and transfer of its shares of stock by electronic or other means not involving the issuance of certificates, provided the use of such system by the Corporation is permitted in accordance with applicable law.

7.6 Construction; Definitions.

Unless the context requires otherwise, the general provisions, rules of construction and definitions in the DGCL shall govern the construction of these bylaws. Without limiting the generality of this provision, the singular number includes the plural and the plural number includes the singular.

7.7 Dividends.

The Board, subject to any restrictions contained in either (i) the DGCL or (ii) the Certificate of Incorporation, may declare and pay dividends upon the shares of its capital stock. Dividends may be paid in cash, in property or in shares of the Corporation’s capital stock.

The Board may set apart out of any of the funds of the Corporation available for dividends a reserve or reserves for any proper purpose and may abolish any such reserve. Such purposes shall include but not be limited to equalizing dividends, repairing or maintaining any property of the Corporation, and meeting contingencies.

7.8 Fiscal Year.

The fiscal year of the Corporation shall be fixed by resolution of the Board and may be changed by the Board.

7.9 Seal.

The Corporation may adopt a corporate seal, which shall be adopted and which may be altered by the Board. The Corporation may use the corporate seal by causing it or a facsimile thereof to be impressed or affixed or in any other manner reproduced.

7.10 Transfer of Stock.

Shares of the stock of the Corporation shall be transferable in the manner prescribed by law and in these bylaws. Shares of stock of the Corporation shall be transferred on the books of the Corporation only by the holder of record thereof or by such holder’s attorney duly authorized in writing, upon surrender to the Corporation of the certificate or certificates representing such shares endorsed by the appropriate person or persons (or by delivery of duly executed instructions with respect to uncertificated shares), with such evidence of the authenticity of such endorsement or execution, transfer, authorization and other matters as the Corporation may reasonably require, and accompanied by all necessary stock transfer stamps. No transfer of stock shall be valid as against the Corporation for any purpose until it shall have been entered in the stock records of the Corporation by an entry showing the names of the persons from and to whom it was transferred.

 

19


7.11 Stock Transfer Agreements.

The Corporation shall have power to enter into and perform any agreement with any number of stockholders of any one or more classes or series of stock of the Corporation to restrict the transfer of shares of stock of the Corporation of any one or more classes owned by such stockholders in any manner not prohibited by the DGCL.

7.12 Registered Stockholders.

The Corporation:

(i) shall be entitled to recognize the exclusive right of a person registered on its books as the owner of shares to receive dividends and to vote as such owner; and

(ii) shall not be bound to recognize any equitable or other claim to or interest in such share or shares on the part of another person, whether or not it shall have express or other notice thereof, except as otherwise provided by the laws of the State of Delaware.

7.13 Waiver of Notice.

Whenever notice is required to be given under any provision of the DGCL, the Certificate of Incorporation or these bylaws, a written waiver, signed by the person entitled to notice, or a waiver by electronic transmission by the person entitled to notice, whether before or after the time of the event for which notice is to be given, shall be deemed equivalent to notice. Attendance of a person at a meeting shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except when the person attends a meeting for the express purpose of objecting at the beginning of the meeting, to the transaction of any business because the meeting is not lawfully called or convened. Neither the business to be transacted at, nor the purpose of, any regular or special meeting of the stockholders need be specified in any written waiver of notice or any waiver by electronic transmission unless so required by the Certificate of Incorporation or these bylaws.

ARTICLE VIII - Notice

8.1 Delivery of Notice; Notice by Electronic Transmission.

Without limiting the manner by which notice otherwise may be given effectively to stockholders, any notice to stockholders given by the Corporation under any provisions of the DGCL, the Certificate of Incorporation, or these bylaws may be given in writing directed to the stockholder’s mailing address (or by electronic transmission directed to the stockholder’s electronic mail address, as applicable) as it appears on the records of the Corporation and shall be given (1) if mailed, when the notice is deposited in the U.S. mail, postage prepaid, (2) if delivered by courier service, the earlier of when the notice is received or left at such stockholder’s address or (3) if given by electronic mail, when directed to such stockholder’s electronic mail address unless the stockholder has notified the Corporation in writing or by electronic transmission of an objection to receiving notice by electronic mail. A notice by electronic mail must include a prominent legend that the communication is an important notice regarding the Corporation.

Without limiting the manner by which notice otherwise may be given effectively to stockholders, any notice to stockholders given by the Corporation under any provision of the DGCL, the Certificate of Incorporation or these bylaws shall be effective if given by a form of electronic transmission consented to by

 

20


the stockholder to whom the notice is given. Any such consent shall be revocable by the stockholder by written notice or electronic transmission to the Corporation. Notwithstanding the provisions of this paragraph, the Corporation may give a notice by electronic mail in accordance with the first paragraph of this section without obtaining the consent required by this paragraph.

Any notice given pursuant to the preceding paragraph shall be deemed given:

 

  (i)

if by facsimile telecommunication, when directed to a number at which the stockholder has consented to receive notice;

 

  (ii)

if by a posting on an electronic network together with separate notice to the stockholder of such specific posting, upon the later of (A) such posting and (B) the giving of such separate notice; and

 

  (iii)

if by any other form of electronic transmission, when directed to the stockholder.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, a notice may not be given by an electronic transmission from and after the time that (1) the Corporation is unable to deliver by such electronic transmission two (2) consecutive notices given by the Corporation and (2) such inability becomes known to the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the Corporation or to the transfer agent, or other person responsible for the giving of notice; provided, however, that the inadvertent failure to discover such inability shall not invalidate any meeting or other action.

An affidavit of the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the Corporation or of the transfer agent or other agent of the Corporation that the notice has been given shall, in the absence of fraud, be prima facie evidence of the facts stated therein.

ARTICLE IX - Indemnification

9.1 Indemnification of Directors and Officers.

The Corporation shall indemnify and hold harmless, to the fullest extent permitted by the DGCL as it presently exists or may hereafter be amended, any director or officer of the Corporation who was or is made or is threatened to be made a party or is otherwise involved in any action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (a “Proceeding”) by reason of the fact that he or she, or a person for whom he or she is the legal representative, is or was a director or officer of the Corporation or, while serving as a director or officer of the Corporation, is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation or of a partnership (a “covered person”), joint venture, trust, enterprise or non-profit entity, including service with respect to employee benefit plans, against all liability and loss suffered and expenses (including, without limitation, attorneys’ fees, judgments, fines, ERISA excise taxes or penalties, and amounts paid in settlement) reasonably incurred by such person in connection with any such Proceeding. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence, except as otherwise provided in Section 9.4, the Corporation shall be required to indemnify a person in connection with a Proceeding initiated by such person only if the Proceeding was authorized in the specific case by the Board.

9.2 Indemnification of Others.

 

21


The Corporation shall also have the power to indemnify and hold harmless, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law as it presently exists or may hereafter be amended, any employee or agent of the Corporation who was or is made or is threatened to be made a party or is otherwise involved in any Proceeding by reason of the fact that he or she, or a person for whom he or she is the legal representative, is or was an employee or agent of the Corporation or is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation or of a partnership, joint venture, trust, enterprise or non-profit entity, including service with respect to employee benefit plans, against all liability and loss suffered and expenses reasonably incurred by such person in connection with any such Proceeding.

9.3 Prepayment of Expenses.

The Corporation shall to the fullest extent not prohibited by applicable law pay the expenses (including, without limitation, attorneys’ fees) incurred by any covered person, and may also pay the expenses incurred by any employee or agent of the Corporation, in defending any Proceeding in advance of its final disposition; provided, however, that such payment of expenses in advance of the final disposition of the Proceeding shall be made only upon receipt of an undertaking by the person to repay all amounts advanced if it should be ultimately determined that the person is not entitled to be indemnified under this ARTICLE IX -  or otherwise.

9.4 Determination; Claim.

If a claim for indemnification (following the final disposition of such Proceeding) under this ARTICLE IX -  is not paid in full within sixty (60) days, or a claim for advancement of expenses under this ARTICLE IX -  is not paid in full within thirty (30) days, after a written claim therefor has been received by the Corporation the claimant may thereafter (but not before) file suit to recover the unpaid amount of such claim and, if successful in whole or in part, shall be entitled to be paid the expense of prosecuting such claim to the fullest extent permitted by law. In any such action the Corporation shall have the burden of proving that the claimant was not entitled to the requested indemnification or payment of expenses under applicable law.

9.5 Non-Exclusivity of Rights.

The rights conferred on any person by this ARTICLE IX -  shall not be exclusive of any other rights which such person may have or hereafter acquire under any statute, provision of the Certificate of Incorporation, these bylaws, agreement, vote of stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise.

9.6 Insurance.

The Corporation may purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation, or is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust enterprise or non-profit entity against any liability asserted against him or her and incurred by him or her in any such capacity, or arising out of his or her status as such, whether or not the Corporation would have the power to indemnify him or her against such liability under the provisions of the DGCL.

9.7 Other Indemnification.

The Corporation’s obligation, if any, to indemnify or advance expenses to any person who was or is serving at its request as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, enterprise or non-profit entity shall be reduced by any amount such person actually collects as

 

22


indemnification or advancement of expenses from such other corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, enterprise or non-profit enterprise.

9.8 Continuation of Indemnification.

The rights to indemnification and to prepayment of expenses provided by, or granted pursuant to, this ARTICLE IX -  shall continue notwithstanding that the person has ceased to be a director or officer of the Corporation and shall inure to the benefit of the estate, heirs, executors, administrators, legatees and distributees of such person.

9.9 Amendment or Repeal; Interpretation.

The provisions of this ARTICLE IX -  shall constitute a contract between the Corporation, on the one hand, and, on the other hand, each individual who serves or has served as a director or officer of the Corporation (whether before or after the adoption of these bylaws), in consideration of such person’s performance of such services, and pursuant to this ARTICLE IX -  the Corporation intends to be legally bound to each such current or former director or officer of the Corporation. With respect to current and former directors and officers of the Corporation, the rights conferred under this ARTICLE IX -   are present contractual rights and such rights are fully vested, and shall be deemed to have vested fully, immediately upon adoption of theses bylaws. With respect to any directors or officers of the Corporation who commence service following adoption of these bylaws, the rights conferred under this provision shall be present contractual rights and such rights shall fully vest, and be deemed to have vested fully, immediately upon such director or officer commencing service as a director or officer of the Corporation. Any repeal or modification of the foregoing provisions of this ARTICLE IX -   shall not adversely affect any right or protection (i) hereunder of any person in respect of any act or omission occurring prior to the time of such repeal or modification or (ii) under any agreement providing for indemnification or advancement of expenses to an officer or director of the Corporation in effect prior to the time of such repeal or modification.

Any reference to an officer of the Corporation in this ARTICLE IX -  shall be deemed to refer exclusively to the Chief Executive Officer, the President and the Secretary of the Corporation, or other officer of the Corporation appointed by (x) the Board pursuant to ARTICLE V -  or (y) an officer to whom the Board has delegated the power to appoint officers pursuant to ARTICLE V - , and any reference to an officer of any other corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise shall be deemed to refer exclusively to an officer appointed by the board of directors (or equivalent governing body) of such other entity pursuant to the certificate of incorporation and bylaws (or equivalent organizational documents) of such other corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise. The fact that any person who is or was an employee of the Corporation or an employee of any other corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise has been given or has used the title of “Vice President” or any other title that could be construed to suggest or imply that such person is or may be an officer of the Corporation or of such other corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise shall not result in such person being constituted as, or being deemed to be, an officer of the Corporation or of such other corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other enterprise for purposes of this ARTICLE IX - .

Article X - Amendments

The Board is expressly empowered to adopt, amend or repeal the bylaws of the Corporation. The stockholders also shall have power to adopt, amend or repeal the bylaws of the Corporation; provided, however,

 

23


that such action by stockholders shall require, in addition to any other vote required by the Certificate of Incorporation or applicable law, the affirmative vote of the holders of at least two-thirds of the voting power of all the then-outstanding shares of voting stock of the Corporation with the power to vote generally in an election of directors, voting together as a single class.

Article XI - Definitions

As used in these bylaws, unless the context otherwise requires, the following terms shall have the following meanings:

An “electronic transmission” means any form of communication, not directly involving the physical transmission of paper, including the use of, or participation in, one or more electronic networks or databases (including one or more distributed electronic networks or databases), that creates a record that may be retained, retrieved and reviewed by a recipient thereof, and that may be directly reproduced in paper form by such a recipient through an automated process.

An “electronic mail” means an electronic transmission directed to a unique electronic mail address (which electronic mail shall be deemed to include any files attached thereto and any information hyperlinked to a website if such electronic mail includes the contact information of an officer or agent of the Corporation who is available to assist with accessing such files and information).

An “electronic mail address” means a destination, commonly expressed as a string of characters, consisting of a unique user name or mailbox (commonly referred to as the “local part” of the address) and a reference to an internet domain (commonly referred to as the “domain part” of the address), whether or not displayed, to which electronic mail can be sent or delivered.

The term “person” means any individual, general partnership, limited partnership, limited liability company, corporation, trust, business trust, joint stock company, joint venture, unincorporated association, cooperative or association or any other legal entity or organization of whatever nature, and shall include any successor (by merger or otherwise) of such entity.

 

24

EX-4.1

Exhibit 4.1

 

LOGO

TYRA PO BOX 505006, Louisville, KY 40233-5006 MR A SAMPLE DESIGNATION (IF ANY) ADD 1 ADD 2 ADD 3 ADD 4 CUSIP/IDENTIFIER XXXXXX XX X Holder ID XXXXXXXXXX Insurance Value 1,000,000.00 Number of Shares 123456 DTC 12345678 123456789012345 Certificate Numbers 1234567890/1234567890 1234567890/1234567890 1234567890/1234567890 1234567890/1234567890 1234567890/1234567890 1234567890/1234567890 Total Transaction Num/No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Denom. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Total 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 ZQ|CERT#|COY|CLS|RGSTRY|ACCT#|TRANSTYPE|RUN#|TRANS# COMMON STOCK COMMON STOCK Certificate Number ZQ00000000 TYRA TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC. INCORPORATED UNDER THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE Shares * * 000000* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 000000* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 000000* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 000000* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 000000* * * * * * * * * * * * * * THIS CERTIFIES THAT ** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Alexander David Sample **** Mr. Sample **** Mr. Sample MR. SAMPLE & MRS. SAMPLE & MR. SAMPLE & MRS. SAMPLE SEE REVERSE FOR CERTAIN DEFINITIONS CUSIP 90240B 10 6 is the owner of **000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares*** *000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares**** 000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****0 00000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****00 0000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000 000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****0000 00**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****00000 0**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000 **Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000* *Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000** Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**Shares****000000**S ***ZERO HUNDRED THOUSAND ZERO HUNDRED AND ZERO*** THIS CERTIFICATE IS TRANSFERABLE IN CITIES DESIGNATED BY THE TRANSFER AGENT, AVAILABLE ONLINE AT www.computershare.com FULLY-PAID AND NON-ASSESSABLE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK OF Tyra Biosciences, Inc. (hereinafter called the Company), transferable on the books of the Company in person or by duly authorized attorney, upon surrender of this Certificate properly endorsed. This Certificate and the shares represented hereby, are issued and shall be held subject to all of the provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, and the By-Laws, as amended, of the Company (copies of which are on file with the Company and with the Transfer Agent), to all of which each holder, by acceptance hereof, assents. This Certificate is not valid unless countersigned and registered by the Transfer Agent and Registrar. Witness the facsimile seal of the Company and the facsimile signatures of its duly authorized officers. FACSIMILE SIGNATURE TO COME President TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC CORPORATE SEAL 8/2/2018 DELAWARE DATED DD-MMM-YYYY COUNTERSIGNED AND REGISTERED: COMPUTERSHARE TRUST COMPANY, N.A. TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR, FACSIMILE SIGNATURE TO COME Secretary By AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE SECURITY INSTRUCTIONS ON REVERSE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7


 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

THE COMPANY WILL FURNISH WITHOUT CHARGE TO EACH SHAREHOLDER WHO SO REQUESTS, A SUMMARY OF THE POWERS, DESIGNATIONS, PREFERENCES AND RELATIVE, PARTICIPATING, OPTIONAL OR OTHER SPECIAL RIGHTS OF EACH CLASS OF STOCK OF THE COMPANY AND THE QUALIFICATIONS, LIMITATIONS OR RESTRICTIONS OF SUCH PREFERENCES AND RIGHTS, AND THE VARIATIONS IN RIGHTS, PREFERENCES AND LIMITATIONS DETERMINED FOR EACH SERIES, WHICH ARE FIXED BY THE CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION OF THE COMPANY, AS AMENDED, AND THE RESOLUTIONS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE COMPANY, AND THE AUTHORITY OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS TO DETERMINE VARIATIONS FOR FUTURE SERIES. SUCH REQUEST MAY BE MADE TO THE OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF THE COMPANY OR TO THE TRANSFER AGENT. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MAY REQUIRE THE OWNER OF A LOST OR DESTROYED STOCK CERTIFICATE, OR HIS LEGAL REPRESENTATIVES, TO GIVE THE COMPANY A BOND TO INDEMNIFY IT AND ITS TRANSFER AGENTS AND REGISTRARS AGAINST ANY CLAIM THAT MAY BE MADE AGAINST THEM ON ACCOUNT OF THE ALLEGED LOSS OR DESTRUCTION OF ANY SUCH CERTIFICATE.

 

 

The following abbreviations, when used in the inscription on the face of this certificate, shall be construed as though they were written out in full according to applicable laws or regulations:

    TEN COM -  

as tenants in common

                     UNIF GIFT MIN ACT -  

                                              

  Custodian  

                                                                          

 
                                                                                                                (Cust)                                            (Minor)                  
    TEN ENT  -   as tenants by the entireties                                    under Uniform Gifts to Minors Act    

                                                                                    

 
            (State)  
    JT TEN      -  

as joint tenants with right of survivorship

           UNIF TRF MIN ACT -  

                                                               

  Custodian (until age   

                                                      

  )
 

and not as tenants in common

     (Cust)       
                                                                                                                                                  

                                      

  under Uniform Transfers to Minors Act   

                                               

 
       (Minor)      (State)  
    Additional abbreviations may also be used though not in the above list.       

 

 

PLEASE INSERT SOCIAL SECURITY OR OTHER IDENTIFYING NUMBER OF ASSIGNEE

For value received, ____________________________hereby sell, assign and transfer unto       

 

(PLEASE PRINT OR TYPEWRITE NAME AND ADDRESS, INCLUDING POSTAL ZIP CODE, OF ASSIGNEE)

 

 

 

  Shares
of the common stock represented by the within Certificate, and do hereby irrevocably constitute and appoint  

 

  Attorney
to transfer the said stock on the books of the within-named Company with full power of substitution in the premises.  

 

Dated:                                                                                                         20                                               

Signature(s) Guaranteed: Medallion Guarantee Stamp

 

THE SIGNATURE(S) SHOULD BE GUARANTEED BY AN ELIGIBLE GUARANTOR INSTITUTION (Banks, Stockbrokers, Savings and Loan Associations and Credit Unions) WITH MEMBERSHIP IN AN APPROVED SIGNATURE GUARANTEE MEDALLION PROGRAM, PURSUANT TO S.E.C. RULE 17Ad-15.

 

Signature:                                                                                                                                                

  

 

Signature:                                                                                                                                                

  

Notice: The signature to this assignment must correspond with the name as written upon the face of the certificate, in every particular, without alteration or enlargement, or any change whatever.

 

 

  

 

LOGO  

The IRS requires that the named transfer agent (“we”) report the  cost basis of certain shares or units acquired after January 1, 2011. If your shares or units are covered by the legislation, and you requested to sell or transfer the shares or units using a specific cost basis calculation method, then we have processed as you requested. If you did not specify a cost basis calculation method, then we have defaulted to the first in, first out (FIFO) method. Please consult your tax advisor if you need additional information about cost basis.

 

If you do not keep in contact with the issuer or do not have any activity in your account for the time period specified by state law, your property may become subject to state unclaimed property laws and transferred to the appropriate state.

   LOGO
EX-4.2

Exhibit 4.2

Execution Version

AMENDED AND RESTATED INVESTORS’ RIGHTS

AGREEMENT

 


CONTENTS

 

     Page  

1.   Definitions

     1  

2.   Registration Rights

     4  

2.1  Demand Registration

     4  

2.2  Company Registration

     6  

2.3  Underwriting Requirements

     6  

2.4  Obligations of the Company

     8  

2.5  Furnish Information

     9  

2.6  Expenses of Registration

     9  

2.7  Delay of Registration

     10  

2.8  Indemnification

     10  

2.9  Reports Under Exchange Act

     12  

2.10  Limitations on Subsequent Registration Rights

     12  

2.11  “Market Stand-off” Agreement

     13  

2.12  Restrictions on Transfer

     13  

2.13  Termination of Registration Rights

     15  

3.   Information and Observer Rights

        15       

3.1  Delivery of Financial Statements

     15  

3.2  Inspection

     17  

3.3  Termination of Information

     17  

3.4  Confidentiality

     17  

4.   Rights to Future Stock Issuances

        18       

4.1  Right of First Offer

     18  

4.2  Termination

     19  

5.   Additional Covenants

        19       

5.1  Insurance

     19  

5.2  Employee Agreements

     20  

5.3  Employee Stock

     20  

5.4  Qualified Small Business Stock

     20  

5.5  Board Matters

     21  

5.6  Matters Requiring Preferred Director Approval

     21  

5.7  Successor Indemnification

     22  

5.8  Expenses of Counsel

     22  

5.9  Indemnification Matters

     22  

5.10  Right to Conduct Activities

     23  

5.11  Termination of Covenants

     23  

 

i


6.   Miscellaneous

     24  

6.1  Successors and Assigns

     24  

6.2  Governing Law

     24  

6.3  Counterparts

     24  

6.4  Titles and Subtitles

     24  

6.5  Notices

     24  

6.6  Amendments and Waivers

     25  

6.7  Severability

     26  

6.8  Aggregation of Stock

     26  

6.9  Additional Investors

     26  

6.10  Entire Agreement

     26  

6.11  Dispute Resolution

     27  

6.12  Delays or Omissions

     27  

 

Schedule A   -    Schedule of Investors

 

ii


AMENDED AND RESTATED INVESTORS’ RIGHTS AGREEMENT

THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED INVESTORS’ RIGHTS AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”), is made as of the 5th day of March, 2021, by and among Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), each of the investors listed on Schedule A hereto, each of which is referred to in this Agreement as an “Investor” and any Additional Purchaser (as defined in the Purchase Agreement) that becomes a party to this Agreement in accordance with Section 6.9 hereof.

RECITALS

WHEREAS, certain of the Investors (the “Existing Investors”) hold shares of Series A Preferred Stock and/or shares of Common Stock issued upon conversion thereof and possess registration rights, information rights, rights of first offer, and other rights pursuant to that certain Investors’ Rights Agreement dated as of January 6, 2020, by and among the Company and such Existing Investors (the “Prior Agreement”); and

WHEREAS, certain of the Investors are parties to that certain Series B Preferred Stock Purchase Agreement of even date herewith by and among the Company and such Investors (the “Purchase Agreement”), under which certain of the Company’s and such Investors’ obligations are conditioned upon the execution and delivery of this Agreement by such Investors, Existing Investors holding at least sixty percent (60%) of the Registrable Securities, and the Company;

NOW, THEREFORE, the Existing Investors hereby agree that the Prior Agreement is hereby amended and restated in its entirety by this Agreement, and the parties to this Agreement further agree as follows:

1. Definitions1. For purposes of this Agreement:

1.1 “Affiliate” means, with respect to any specified Person, any other Person who, directly or indirectly, controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with such Person, including without limitation any general partner, managing member, officer, director or trustee of such Person, or any venture capital fund, registered investment company or other investment fund now or hereafter existing that is controlled by one or more general partners, managing members or investment adviser of, or shares the same management company or investment adviser with, such Person; provided, however, that (i) each Janus Investor shall be deemed to be an “Affiliate” of each other Janus Investor, and (ii) an entity that is an “Affiliate” of a Janus Investor shall not be deemed to be an “Affiliate” of any other Janus Investor unless such entity is a Janus Investor (and, for the avoidance of doubt, an “Affiliate” of such entity shall not be deemed an “Affiliate” of any Janus Investor solely by virtue of being an “Affiliate” of such entity).

1.2 “Board of Directors” means the board of directors of the Company.

1.3 “Certificate of Incorporation” means the Company’s Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended and/or restated from time to time.


1.4 “Common Stock” means shares of the Company’s common stock, par value $0.0001 per share.

1.5 “Damages” means any loss, damage, claim or liability (joint or several) to which a party hereto may become subject under the Securities Act, the Exchange Act, or other federal or state law, insofar as such loss, damage, claim or liability (or any action in respect thereof) arises out of or is based upon: (i) any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in any registration statement of the Company, including any preliminary prospectus or final prospectus contained therein or any amendments or supplements thereto; (ii) an omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein, or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading; or (iii) any violation or alleged violation by the indemnifying party (or any of its agents or Affiliates) of the Securities Act, the Exchange Act, any state securities law, or any rule or regulation promulgated under the Securities Act, the Exchange Act, or any state securities law.

1.6 “Derivative Securities” means any securities or rights convertible into, or exercisable or exchangeable for (in each case, directly or indirectly), Common Stock, including options and warrants.

1.7 “Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

1.8 “Excluded Registration” means (i) a registration relating to the sale or grant of securities to employees of the Company or a subsidiary pursuant to a stock option, stock purchase, equity incentive or similar plan; (ii) a registration relating to an SEC Rule 145 transaction; (iii) a registration on any form that does not include substantially the same information as would be required to be included in a registration statement covering the sale of the Registrable Securities; or (iv) a registration in which the only Common Stock being registered is Common Stock issuable upon conversion of debt securities that are also being registered.

1.9 “Form S-1” means such form under the Securities Act as in effect on the date hereof or any successor registration form under the Securities Act subsequently adopted by the SEC.

1.10 “Form S-3” means such form under the Securities Act as in effect on the date hereof or any registration form under the Securities Act subsequently adopted by the SEC that permits forward incorporation of substantial information by reference to other documents filed by the Company with the SEC.

1.11 “GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States as in effect from time to time.

1.12 “Holder” means any holder of Registrable Securities who is a party to this Agreement.

1.13 “Immediate Family Member” means a child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, spouse, life partner, sibling, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-

 

2


law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, or sister-in-law, including, adoptive relationships, of a natural person referred to herein.

1.14 “Initiating Holders” means, collectively, Holders who properly initiate a registration request under this Agreement.

1.15 “IPO” means the Company’s first underwritten public offering of its Common Stock under the Securities Act.

1.16 “Janus” means Janus Henderson Capital Funds plc—Janus Henderson Global Life Sciences Fund, Janus Henderson Horizon Fund—Biotechnology Fund and Janus Henderson Biotech Innovation Master Fund Limited (each, together with its (i) permitted transferees and (ii) other entities under management by Janus Capital Management LLC, a “Janus Investor”).

1.17 “Major Investor” means an Investor that, individually or together with such Investor’s Affiliates, holds at least 182,257 shares of Registrable Securities (as adjusted for any stock split, stock dividend, combination, or other recapitalization or reclassification effected after the date hereof).

1.18 “New Securities” means, collectively, equity securities of the Company, whether or not currently authorized, as well as rights, options, or warrants to purchase such equity securities, or securities of any type whatsoever that are, or may become, convertible or exchangeable into or exercisable for such equity securities, provided that Exempted Securities (as defined in the Certificate of Incorporation) shall not be deemed New Securities.

1.19 “Person” means any individual, corporation, partnership, trust, limited liability company, association or other entity.

1.20 “Preferred Director” means any director of the Company that the holders of record of a class, classes or series of Preferred Stock are entitled to elect, exclusively and as a separate class, pursuant to the Certificate of Incorporation.

1.21 “Preferred Stock” means, collectively, shares of the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock and Series B Preferred Stock.

1.22 “Registrable Securities” means (i) the Common Stock issuable or issued upon conversion of the Preferred Stock; (ii) any Common Stock, or any Common Stock issued or issuable (directly or indirectly) upon conversion and/or exercise of any other securities of the Company, acquired by the Investors after the date hereof; (iii) any Common Stock issued as (or issuable upon the conversion or exercise of any warrant, right, or other security that is issued as) a dividend or other distribution with respect to, or in exchange for or in replacement of, the shares referenced in clauses (i) and (ii) above; excluding in all cases, however, any Registrable Securities sold by a Person in a transaction in which the applicable rights under this Agreement are not assigned pursuant to Subsection 6.1, and excluding for purposes of Section 2 any shares for which registration rights have terminated pursuant to Subsection 2.13 of this Agreement.

 

3


1.23 “Registrable Securities then outstanding” means the number of shares determined by adding the number of shares of outstanding Common Stock that are Registrable Securities and the number of shares of Common Stock issuable (directly or indirectly) pursuant to then exercisable and/or convertible securities that are Registrable Securities.

1.24 “Restricted Securities” means the securities of the Company required to be notated with the legend set forth in Subsection 2.12(b) hereof.

1.25 “SEC” means the Securities and Exchange Commission.

1.26 “SEC Rule 144” means Rule 144 promulgated by the SEC under the Securities Act.

1.27 “SEC Rule 145” means Rule 145 promulgated by the SEC under the Securities Act.

1.28 “Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

1.29 “Selling Expenses” means all underwriting discounts, selling commissions, and stock transfer taxes applicable to the sale of Registrable Securities, and fees and disbursements of counsel for any Holder, except for the fees and disbursements of the Selling Holder Counsel borne and paid by the Company as provided in Subsection 2.6.

1.30 “Series A Preferred Stock” means shares of the Company’s Series A Preferred Stock, par value $0.0001 per share.

1.31 “Series B Preferred Stock” means shares of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock, par value $0.0001 per share.

2. Registration Rights. The Company covenants and agrees as follows:

2.1 Demand Registration.

(a) Form S-1 Demand. If at any time after the earlier of (i) four (4) years after the date of this Agreement or (ii) one hundred eighty (180) days after the effective date of the registration statement for the IPO, the Company receives a request from Holders of a majority of the Registrable Securities then outstanding that the Company file a Form S-1 registration statement with respect to at least fifty percent (50%) of the Registrable Securities then outstanding, then the Company shall (x) within ten (10) days after the date such request is given, give notice thereof (the “Demand Notice”) to all Holders other than the Initiating Holders; and (y) as soon as practicable, and in any event within sixty (60) days after the date such request is given by the Initiating Holders, file a Form S-1 registration statement under the Securities Act covering all Registrable Securities that the Initiating Holders requested to be registered and any additional Registrable Securities requested to be included in such registration by any other Holders, as specified by notice given by each such Holder to the Company within twenty (20) days of the date the Demand Notice is given, and in each case, subject to the limitations of Subsections 2.1(c) and 2.3.

 

4


(b) Form S-3 Demand. If at any time when it is eligible to use a Form S-3 registration statement, the Company receives a request from Holders of at least twenty-five percent (25%) of the Registrable Securities then outstanding that the Company file a Form S-3 registration statement with respect to outstanding Registrable Securities of such Holders having an anticipated aggregate offering price, net of Selling Expenses, of at least $5 million, then the Company shall (i) within ten (10) days after the date such request is given, give a Demand Notice to all Holders other than the Initiating Holders; and (ii) as soon as practicable, and in any event within forty-five (45) days after the date such request is given by the Initiating Holders, file a Form S-3 registration statement under the Securities Act covering all Registrable Securities requested to be included in such registration by any other Holders, as specified by notice given by each such Holder to the Company within twenty (20) days of the date the Demand Notice is given, and in each case, subject to the limitations of Subsections 2.1(c) and 2.3.

(c) Notwithstanding the foregoing obligations, if the Company furnishes to Holders requesting a registration pursuant to this Subsection 2.1 a certificate signed by the Company’s chief executive officer stating that in the good faith judgment of the Board of Directors it would be materially detrimental to the Company and its stockholders for such registration statement to either become effective or remain effective for as long as such registration statement otherwise would be required to remain effective, because such action would (i) materially interfere with a significant acquisition, corporate reorganization, or other similar transaction involving the Company; (ii) require premature disclosure of material information that the Company has a bona fide business purpose for preserving as confidential; or (iii) render the Company unable to comply with requirements under the Securities Act or Exchange Act, then the Company shall have the right to defer taking action with respect to such filing, and any time periods with respect to filing or effectiveness thereof shall be tolled correspondingly, for a period of not more than one hundred and twenty (120) days after the request of the Initiating Holders is given; provided, however, that the Company may not invoke this right more than once in any twelve (12) month period; and provided further that the Company shall not register any securities for its own account or that of any other stockholder during such one hundred and twenty (120) day period other than pursuant to a registration relating to the sale or grant of securities to employees of the Company or a subsidiary pursuant to a stock option, stock purchase, equity incentive or similar plan; a registration on any form that does not include substantially the same information as would be required to be included in a registration statement covering the sale of the Registrable Securities; or a registration in which the only Common Stock being registered is Common Stock issuable upon conversion of debt securities that are also being registered.

(d) The Company shall not be obligated to effect, or to take any action to effect, any registration pursuant to Subsection 2.1(a) (i) during the period that is sixty (60) days before the Company’s good faith estimate of the date of filing of, and ending on a date that is one hundred eighty (180) days after the effective date of, a Company-initiated registration, provided that the Company is actively employing in good faith commercially reasonable efforts to cause such registration statement to become effective; (ii) after the Company has effected two registrations pursuant to Subsection 2.1(a); or (iii) if the Initiating Holders propose to dispose of shares of Registrable Securities that may be immediately registered on Form S-3 pursuant to a request made pursuant to Subsection 2.1(b). The Company shall not be obligated to effect, or to take any action to effect, any registration pursuant to Subsection 2.1(b) (i) during the period that is thirty (30) days before the Company’s good faith estimate of the date of filing of, and ending on

 

5


a date that is ninety (90) days after the effective date of, a Company-initiated registration, provided that the Company is actively employing in good faith commercially reasonable efforts to cause such registration statement to become effective; or (ii) if the Company has effected two registrations pursuant to Subsection 2.1(b) within the twelve (12) month period immediately preceding the date of such request. A registration shall not be counted as “effected” for purposes of this Subsection 2.1(d) until such time as the applicable registration statement has been declared effective by the SEC, unless the Initiating Holders withdraw their request for such registration, elect not to pay the registration expenses therefor, and forfeit their right to one demand registration statement pursuant to Subsection 2.6, in which case such withdrawn registration statement shall be counted as “effected” for purposes of this Subsection 2.1(d); provided, that if such withdrawal is during a period the Company has deferred taking action pursuant to Subsection 2.1(c), then the Initiating Holders may withdraw their request for registration and such registration will not be counted as “effected” for purposes of this Subsection 2.1(d).

2.2 Company Registration. If the Company proposes to register (including, for this purpose, a registration effected by the Company for stockholders other than the Holders) any of its securities under the Securities Act in connection with the public offering of such securities solely for cash (other than in an Excluded Registration), the Company shall, at such time, promptly give each Holder notice of such registration. Upon the request of each Holder given within twenty (20) days after such notice is given by the Company, the Company shall, subject to the provisions of Subsection 2.3, cause to be registered all of the Registrable Securities that each such Holder has requested to be included in such registration. The Company shall have the right to terminate or withdraw any registration initiated by it under this Subsection 2.2 before the effective date of such registration, whether or not any Holder has elected to include Registrable Securities in such registration. The expenses (other than Selling Expenses) of such withdrawn registration shall be borne by the Company in accordance with Subsection 2.6.

2.3 Underwriting Requirements.

(a) If, pursuant to Subsection 2.1, the Initiating Holders intend to distribute the Registrable Securities covered by their request by means of an underwriting, they shall so advise the Company as a part of their request made pursuant to Subsection 2.1, and the Company shall include such information in the Demand Notice. The underwriter(s) will be selected by the Company and shall be reasonably acceptable to a majority in interest of the Initiating Holders. In such event, the right of any Holder to include such Holder’s Registrable Securities in such registration shall be conditioned upon such Holder’s participation in such underwriting and the inclusion of such Holder’s Registrable Securities in the underwriting to the extent provided herein. All Holders proposing to distribute their securities through such underwriting shall (together with the Company as provided in Subsection 2.4(e)) enter into an underwriting agreement in customary form with the underwriter(s) selected for such underwriting. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Subsection 2.3, if the underwriter(s) advise(s) the Initiating Holders in writing that marketing factors require a limitation on the number of shares to be underwritten, then the Initiating Holders shall so advise all Holders of Registrable Securities that otherwise would be underwritten pursuant hereto, and the number of Registrable Securities that may be included in the underwriting shall be allocated among such Holders of Registrable Securities, including the Initiating Holders, in proportion (as nearly as practicable) to the number of Registrable Securities owned by each Holder or in such other proportion as shall mutually be

 

6


agreed to by all such selling Holders; provided, however, that the number of Registrable Securities held by the Holders to be included in such underwriting shall not be reduced unless all other securities are first entirely excluded from the underwriting. To facilitate the allocation of shares in accordance with the above provisions, the Company or the underwriters may round the number of shares allocated to any Holder to the nearest one hundred (100) shares.

(b) In connection with any offering involving an underwriting of shares of the Company’s capital stock pursuant to Subsection 2.2, the Company shall not be required to include any of the Holders’ Registrable Securities in such underwriting unless the Holders accept the terms of the underwriting as agreed upon between the Company and its underwriters, and then only in such quantity as the underwriters in their sole discretion determine will not jeopardize the success of the offering by the Company. If the total number of securities, including Registrable Securities, requested by stockholders to be included in such offering exceeds the number of securities to be sold (other than by the Company) that the underwriters in their reasonable discretion determine is compatible with the success of the offering, then the Company shall be required to include in the offering only that number of such securities, including Registrable Securities, which the underwriters and the Company in their sole discretion determine will not jeopardize the success of the offering. If the underwriters determine that less than all of the Registrable Securities requested to be registered can be included in such offering, then the Registrable Securities that are included in such offering shall be allocated among the selling Holders in proportion (as nearly as practicable to) the number of Registrable Securities owned by each selling Holder or in such other proportions as shall mutually be agreed to by all such selling Holders. To facilitate the allocation of shares in accordance with the above provisions, the Company or the underwriters may round the number of shares allocated to any Holder to the nearest one hundred (100) shares. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event shall (i) the number of Registrable Securities included in the offering be reduced unless all other securities (other than securities to be sold by the Company) are first entirely excluded from the offering, or (ii) the number of Registrable Securities included in the offering be reduced below thirty percent (30%) of the total number of securities included in such offering, unless such offering is the IPO, in which case the selling Holders may be excluded further if the underwriters make the determination described above and no other stockholder’s securities are included in such offering For purposes of the provision in this Subsection 2.3(b) concerning apportionment, for any selling Holder that is a partnership, limited liability company, or corporation, the partners, members, retired partners, retired members, stockholders, and Affiliates of such Holder, or the estates and Immediate Family Members of any such partners, retired partners, members, and retired members and any trusts for the benefit of any of the foregoing Persons, shall be deemed to be a single “selling Holder,” and any pro rata reduction with respect to such “selling Holder” shall be based upon the aggregate number of Registrable Securities owned by all Persons included in such “selling Holder,” as defined in this sentence.

(c) For purposes of Subsection 2.1, a registration shall not be counted as “effected” if, as a result of an exercise of the underwriter’s cutback provisions in Subsection 2.3(a), fewer than fifty percent (50%) of the total number of Registrable Securities that Holders have requested to be included in such registration statement are actually included.

 

7


2.4 Obligations of the Company. Whenever required under this Section 2 to effect the registration of any Registrable Securities, the Company shall, as expeditiously as reasonably possible:

(a) prepare and file with the SEC a registration statement with respect to such Registrable Securities and use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause such registration statement to become effective and, upon the request of the Holders of a majority of the Registrable Securities registered thereunder, keep such registration statement effective for a period of up to one hundred twenty (120) days or, if earlier, until the distribution contemplated in the registration statement has been completed; provided, however, that (i) such one hundred twenty (120) day period shall be extended for a period of time equal to the period the Holder refrains, at the request of an underwriter of Common Stock (or other securities) of the Company, from selling any securities included in such registration, and (ii) in the case of any registration of Registrable Securities on Form S-3 that are intended to be offered on a continuous or delayed basis, subject to compliance with applicable SEC rules, such one hundred twenty (120) day period shall be extended for up to one hundred eighty (180) days, if necessary, to keep the registration statement effective until all such Registrable Securities are sold;

(b) prepare and file with the SEC such amendments and supplements to such registration statement, and the prospectus used in connection with such registration statement, as may be necessary to comply with the Securities Act in order to enable the disposition of all securities covered by such registration statement;

(c) furnish to the selling Holders such numbers of copies of a prospectus, including a preliminary prospectus, as required by the Securities Act, and such other documents as the Holders may reasonably request in order to facilitate their disposition of their Registrable Securities;

(d) use its commercially reasonable efforts to register and qualify the securities covered by such registration statement under such other securities or blue-sky laws of such jurisdictions as shall be reasonably requested by the selling Holders; provided that the Company shall not be required to qualify to do business or to file a general consent to service of process in any such states or jurisdictions, unless the Company is already subject to service in such jurisdiction and except as may be required by the Securities Act;

(e) in the event of any underwritten public offering, enter into and perform its obligations under an underwriting agreement, in usual and customary form, with the underwriter(s) of such offering;

(f) use its commercially reasonable efforts to cause all such Registrable Securities covered by such registration statement to be listed on a national securities exchange or trading system and each securities exchange and trading system (if any) on which similar securities issued by the Company are then listed;

(g) provide a transfer agent and registrar for all Registrable Securities registered pursuant to this Agreement and provide a CUSIP number for all such Registrable Securities, in each case not later than the effective date of such registration;

 

8


(h) promptly make available for inspection by the selling Holders, any underwriter(s) participating in any disposition pursuant to such registration statement, and any attorney or accountant or other agent retained by any such underwriter or selected by the selling Holders, all financial and other records, pertinent corporate documents, and properties of the Company, and cause the Company’s officers, directors, employees, and independent accountants to supply all information reasonably requested by any such seller, underwriter, attorney, accountant, or agent, in each case, as necessary or advisable to verify the accuracy of the information in such registration statement and to conduct appropriate due diligence in connection therewith;

(i) notify each selling Holder, promptly after the Company receives notice thereof, of the time when such registration statement has been declared effective or a supplement to any prospectus forming a part of such registration statement has been filed; and

(j) after such registration statement becomes effective, notify each selling Holder of any request by the SEC that the Company amend or supplement such registration statement or prospectus.

In addition, the Company shall ensure that, at all times after any registration statement covering a public offering of securities of the Company under the Securities Act shall have become effective, its insider trading policy shall provide that the Company’s directors may implement a trading program under Rule 10b5-1 of the Exchange Act.

2.5 Furnish Information. It shall be a condition precedent to the obligations of the Company to take any action pursuant to this Section 2 with respect to the Registrable Securities of any selling Holder that such Holder shall furnish to the Company such information regarding itself, the Registrable Securities held by it, and the intended method of disposition of such securities as is reasonably required to effect the registration of such Holder’s Registrable Securities.

2.6 Expenses of Registration. All expenses (other than Selling Expenses) incurred in connection with registrations, filings, or qualifications pursuant to Section 2, including all registration, filing, and qualification fees; printers’ and accounting fees; fees and disbursements of counsel for the Company; and the reasonable fees and disbursements, not to exceed $30,000 of one counsel for the selling Holders (“Selling Holder Counsel”), shall be borne and paid by the Company; provided, however, that the Company shall not be required to pay for any expenses of any registration proceeding begun pursuant to Subsection 2.1 if the registration request is subsequently withdrawn at the request of the Holders of a majority of the Registrable Securities to be registered (in which case all selling Holders shall bear such expenses pro rata based upon the number of Registrable Securities that were to be included in the withdrawn registration), unless the Holders of a majority of the Registrable Securities agree to forfeit their right to one registration pursuant to Subsections 2.1(a) or 2.1(b), as the case may be; provided further that if, at the time of such withdrawal, the Holders shall have learned of a material adverse change in the condition, business, or prospects of the Company from that known to the Holders at the time of their request and have withdrawn the request with reasonable promptness after learning of such information then the Holders shall not be required to pay any of such expenses and shall not forfeit their right to one registration pursuant to Subsections 2.1(a) or 2.1(b). All Selling Expenses relating to

 

9


Registrable Securities registered pursuant to this Section 2 shall be borne and paid by the Holders pro rata on the basis of the number of Registrable Securities registered on their behalf.

2.7 Delay of Registration. No Holder shall have any right to obtain or seek an injunction restraining or otherwise delaying any registration pursuant to this Agreement as the result of any controversy that might arise with respect to the interpretation or implementation of this Section 2.

2.8 Indemnification. If any Registrable Securities are included in a registration statement under this Section 2:

(a) To the extent permitted by law, the Company will indemnify and hold harmless each selling Holder, and the partners, members, officers, directors, and stockholders of each such Holder; legal counsel and accountants for each such Holder; any underwriter (as defined in the Securities Act) for each such Holder; and each Person, if any, who controls such Holder or underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act or the Exchange Act, against any Damages, and the Company will pay to each such Holder, underwriter, controlling Person, or other aforementioned Person any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred thereby in connection with investigating or defending any claim or proceeding from which Damages may result, as such expenses are incurred; provided, however, that the indemnity agreement contained in this Subsection 2.8(a) shall not apply to amounts paid in settlement of any such claim or proceeding if such settlement is effected without the consent of the Company, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, nor shall the Company be liable for any Damages to the extent that they arise out of or are based upon actions or omissions made in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished by or on behalf of any such Holder, underwriter, controlling Person, or other aforementioned Person expressly for use in connection with such registration.

(b) To the extent permitted by law, each selling Holder, severally and not jointly, will indemnify and hold harmless the Company, and each of its directors, each of its officers who has signed the registration statement, each Person (if any), who controls the Company within the meaning of the Securities Act, legal counsel and accountants for the Company, any underwriter (as defined in the Securities Act), any other Holder selling securities in such registration statement, and any controlling Person of any such underwriter or other Holder, against any Damages, in each case only to the extent that such Damages arise out of or are based upon actions or omissions made in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished by or on behalf of such selling Holder expressly for use in connection with such registration; and each such selling Holder will pay to the Company and each other aforementioned Person any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred thereby in connection with investigating or defending any claim or proceeding from which Damages may result, as such expenses are incurred; provided, however, that the indemnity agreement contained in this Subsection 2.8(b) shall not apply to amounts paid in settlement of any such claim or proceeding if such settlement is effected without the consent of the Holder, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld; and provided further that in no event shall the aggregate amounts payable by any Holder by way of indemnity or contribution under Subsections 2.8(b) and 2.8(d) exceed the proceeds from the offering received by such Holder (net of any Selling Expenses paid by such Holder), except in the case of fraud or willful misconduct by such Holder.

 

10


(c) Promptly after receipt by an indemnified party under this Subsection 2.8 of notice of the commencement of any action (including any governmental action) for which a party may be entitled to indemnification hereunder, such indemnified party will, if a claim in respect thereof is to be made against any indemnifying party under this Subsection 2.8, give the indemnifying party notice of the commencement thereof. The indemnifying party shall have the right to participate in such action and, to the extent the indemnifying party so desires, participate jointly with any other indemnifying party to which notice has been given, and to assume the defense thereof with counsel mutually satisfactory to the parties; provided, however, that an indemnified party (together with all other indemnified parties that may be represented without conflict by one counsel) shall have the right to retain one separate counsel, with the fees and expenses to be paid by the indemnifying party, if representation of such indemnified party by the counsel retained by the indemnifying party would be inappropriate due to actual or potential differing interests between such indemnified party and any other party represented by such counsel in such action. The failure to give notice to the indemnifying party within a reasonable time of the commencement of any such action shall relieve such indemnifying party of any liability to the indemnified party under this Subsection 2.8, to the extent that such failure materially prejudices the indemnifying party’s ability to defend such action. The failure to give notice to the indemnifying party will not relieve it of any liability that it may have to any indemnified party otherwise than under this Subsection 2.8.

(d) To provide for just and equitable contribution to joint liability under the Securities Act in any case in which either: (i) any party otherwise entitled to indemnification hereunder makes a claim for indemnification pursuant to this Subsection 2.8 but it is judicially determined (by the entry of a final judgment or decree by a court of competent jurisdiction and the expiration of time to appeal or the denial of the last right of appeal) that such indemnification may not be enforced in such case, notwithstanding the fact that this Subsection 2.8 provides for indemnification in such case, or (ii) contribution under the Securities Act may be required on the part of any party hereto for which indemnification is provided under this Subsection 2.8, then, and in each such case, such parties will contribute to the aggregate losses, claims, damages, liabilities, or expenses to which they may be subject (after contribution from others) in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative fault of each of the indemnifying party and the indemnified party in connection with the statements, omissions, or other actions that resulted in such loss, claim, damage, liability, or expense, as well as to reflect any other relevant equitable considerations. The relative fault of the indemnifying party and of the indemnified party shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether the untrue or allegedly untrue statement of a material fact, or the omission or alleged omission of a material fact, relates to information supplied by the indemnifying party or by the indemnified party and the parties’ relative intent, knowledge, access to information, and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement or omission; provided, however, that, in any such case (x) no Holder will be required to contribute any amount in excess of the public offering price of all such Registrable Securities offered and sold by such Holder pursuant to such registration statement, and (y) no Person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Securities Act) will be entitled to contribution from any Person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation; and provided further that in no event shall a Holder’s liability pursuant to this Subsection 2.8(d), when combined with the amounts paid or payable by such Holder pursuant to Subsection 2.8(b), exceed the proceeds from the offering received by such Holder (net of any Selling Expenses paid by such Holder), except in the case of willful misconduct or fraud by such Holder.

 

11


(e) Notwithstanding the foregoing, to the extent that the provisions on indemnification and contribution contained in the underwriting agreement entered into in connection with the underwritten public offering are in conflict with the foregoing provisions, the provisions in the underwriting agreement shall control.

(f) Unless otherwise superseded by an underwriting agreement entered into in connection with the underwritten public offering, the obligations of the Company and Holders under this Subsection 2.8 shall survive the completion of any offering of Registrable Securities in a registration under this Section 2, and otherwise shall survive the termination of this Agreement.

2.9 Reports Under Exchange Act. With a view to making available to the Holders the benefits of SEC Rule 144 and any other rule or regulation of the SEC that may at any time permit a Holder to sell securities of the Company to the public without registration or pursuant to a registration on Form S-3, the Company shall:

(a) make and keep available adequate current public information, as those terms are understood and defined in SEC Rule 144, at all times after the effective date of the registration statement filed by the Company for the IPO;

(b) use commercially reasonable efforts to file with the SEC in a timely manner all reports and other documents required of the Company under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act (at any time after the Company has become subject to such reporting requirements); and

(c) furnish to any Holder, so long as the Holder owns any Registrable Securities, forthwith upon request (i) to the extent accurate, a written statement by the Company that it has complied with the reporting requirements of SEC Rule 144 (at any time after ninety (90) days after the effective date of the registration statement filed by the Company for the IPO), the Securities Act, and the Exchange Act (at any time after the Company has become subject to such reporting requirements), or that it qualifies as a registrant whose securities may be resold pursuant to Form S-3 (at any time after the Company so qualifies); (ii) a copy of the most recent annual or quarterly report of the Company and such other reports and documents so filed by the Company; and (iii) such other information as may be reasonably requested in availing any Holder of any rule or regulation of the SEC that permits the selling of any such securities without registration (at any time after the Company has become subject to the reporting requirements under the Exchange Act) or pursuant to Form S-3 (at any time after the Company so qualifies to use such form).

2.10 Limitations on Subsequent Registration Rights. From and after the date of this Agreement, the Company shall not, without the prior written consent of the Holders of a majority of the Registrable Securities then outstanding, enter into any agreement with any holder or prospective holder of any securities of the Company that would allow such holder or prospective holder to include such securities in any registration unless, under the terms of such agreement, such holder or prospective holder may include such securities in any such registration only to the extent that the inclusion of such securities will not reduce the number of the Registrable Securities of the Holders that are included; provided that this limitation shall not apply to Registrable

 

12


Securities acquired by any additional Investor that becomes a party to this Agreement in accordance with Subsection 6.9.

2.11 Market Stand-off Agreement. Each Holder hereby agrees that it will not, without the prior written consent of the managing underwriter, during the period commencing on the date of the final prospectus relating to the registration by the Company for its own behalf of shares of its Common Stock or any other equity securities under the Securities Act on a registration statement on Form S-1, and ending on the date specified by the Company and the underwriter (such period not to exceed one hundred eighty (180) days in the case of the IPO, or such other period as may be requested by the Company or an underwriter to accommodate regulatory restrictions on (1) the publication or other distribution of research reports, and (2) analyst recommendations and opinions, including, but not limited to, the restrictions contained in applicable FINRA rules, or any successor provisions or amendments thereto), (i) lend; offer; pledge; sell; contract to sell; sell any option or contract to purchase; purchase any option or contract to sell; grant any option, right, or warrant to purchase; or otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or indirectly, any shares of Common Stock or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable (directly or indirectly) for Common Stock held immediately before the effective date of the registration statement for such offering or (ii) enter into any swap or other arrangement that transfers to another, in whole or in part, any of the economic consequences of ownership of such securities, whether any such transaction described in clause (i) or (ii) above is to be settled by delivery of Common Stock or other securities, in cash, or otherwise. The foregoing provisions of this Subsection 2.11 shall not apply to transactions (including, without limitation, any swap, hedge or similar agreement or arrangement) or announcements, in each case, relating to securities acquired in the IPO or securities acquired in the open market or other transactions from and after the IPO or that otherwise do not involve or relate to shares of Common Stock owned by a Holder prior to the IPO, shall apply only to the IPO, shall not apply to the sale of any shares to an underwriter pursuant to an underwriting agreement, or the transfer of any shares to any trust for the direct or indirect benefit of the Holder or the immediate family of the Holder, provided that the trustee of the trust agrees to be bound in writing by the restrictions set forth herein, and provided further that any such transfer shall not involve a disposition for value, and shall be applicable to the Holders only if all officers and directors are subject to the same restrictions and the Company uses commercially reasonable efforts to obtain a similar agreement from all stockholders individually owning more than one percent (1%) of the Company’s outstanding Common Stock (after giving effect to conversion into Common Stock of all outstanding Preferred Stock). The underwriters in connection with such registration are intended third-party beneficiaries of this Subsection 2.11 and shall have the right, power and authority to enforce the provisions hereof as though they were a party hereto. Each Holder further agrees to execute such agreements as may be reasonably requested by the underwriters in connection with such registration that are consistent with this Subsection 2.11 or that are necessary to give further effect thereto. Any discretionary waiver or termination of the restrictions of any or all of such agreements by the Company or the underwriters shall apply pro rata to all Company stockholders that are subject to such agreements, based on the number of shares subject to such agreements

2.12 Restrictions on Transfer.

(a) The Preferred Stock and the Registrable Securities shall not be sold, pledged, or otherwise transferred, and the Company shall not recognize and shall issue stop-

 

13


transfer instructions to its transfer agent with respect to any such sale, pledge, or transfer, except upon the conditions specified in this Agreement, which conditions are intended to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Securities Act. A transferring Holder will cause any proposed purchaser, pledgee, or transferee of the Preferred Stock and the Registrable Securities held by such Holder to agree to take and hold such securities subject to the provisions and upon the conditions specified in this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company shall not require any transferee of shares pursuant to an effective registration statement or, following the IPO, SEC Rule 144, in each case, to be bound by the terms of this Agreement.

(b) Each certificate, instrument, or book entry representing (i) the Preferred Stock, (ii) the Registrable Securities, and (iii) any other securities issued in respect of the securities referenced in clauses (i) and (ii), upon any stock split, stock dividend, recapitalization, merger, consolidation, or similar event, shall (unless otherwise permitted by the provisions of Subsection 2.12(c)) be notated with a legend substantially in the following form:

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY HAVE BEEN ACQUIRED FOR INVESTMENT AND HAVE NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933. SUCH SHARES MAY NOT BE SOLD, PLEDGED, OR TRANSFERRED IN THE ABSENCE OF SUCH REGISTRATION OR A VALID EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION AND PROSPECTUS DELIVERY REQUIREMENTS OF SAID ACT.

THE SECURITIES REPRESENTED HEREBY MAY BE TRANSFERRED ONLY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS OF AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE COMPANY AND THE STOCKHOLDER, A COPY OF WHICH IS ON FILE WITH THE SECRETARY OF THE COMPANY.

The Holders consent to the Company making a notation in its records and giving instructions to any transfer agent of the Restricted Securities in order to implement the restrictions on transfer set forth in this Subsection 2.12.

(c) The holder of such Restricted Securities, by acceptance of ownership thereof, agrees to comply in all respects with the provisions of this Section 2. Before any proposed sale, pledge, or transfer of any Restricted Securities, unless there is in effect a registration statement under the Securities Act covering the proposed transaction or following the IPO, the transfer is made pursuant to SEC Rule 144, the Holder thereof shall give notice to the Company of such Holder’s intention to effect such sale, pledge, or transfer, provided that no such notice shall be required in connection if the intended sale, pledge or transfer complies with SEC Rule 144. Each such notice shall describe the manner and circumstances of the proposed sale, pledge, or transfer in sufficient detail and, if reasonably requested by the Company, shall be accompanied at such Holder’s expense by either (i) a written opinion of legal counsel who shall, and whose legal opinion shall, be reasonably satisfactory to the Company, addressed to the Company, to the effect that the proposed transaction may be effected without registration under the Securities Act; (ii) a “no action” letter from the SEC to the effect that the proposed sale, pledge, or transfer of such Restricted Securities without registration will not result in a recommendation by the staff of the SEC that action be taken with respect thereto; or (iii) any other evidence

 

14


reasonably satisfactory to counsel to the Company to the effect that the proposed sale, pledge, or transfer of the Restricted Securities may be effected without registration under the Securities Act, whereupon the Holder of such Restricted Securities shall be entitled to sell, pledge, or transfer such Restricted Securities in accordance with the terms of the notice given by the Holder to the Company. The Company will not require such a legal opinion or “no action” letter (x) in any transaction in compliance with SEC Rule 144; or (y) in any transaction in which such Holder distributes Restricted Securities to an Affiliate of such Holder for no consideration; provided that each transferee agrees in writing to be subject to the terms of this Subsection 2.12. Each certificate, instrument, or book entry representing the Restricted Securities transferred as above provided shall be notated with, except if such transfer is made pursuant to SEC Rule 144, the appropriate restrictive legend set forth in Subsection 2.12(b), except that such certificate instrument, or book entry shall not be notated with such restrictive legend if, in the opinion of counsel for such Holder and the Company, such legend is not required in order to establish compliance with any provisions of the Securities Act.

2.13 Termination of Registration Rights. The right of any Holder to request registration or inclusion of Registrable Securities in any registration pursuant to Subsections 2.1 or 2.2 shall terminate upon the earliest to occur of:

(a) the closing of a Deemed Liquidation Event, as such term is defined in the Certificate of Incorporation;

(b) such time after consummation of the IPO as Rule 144 or another similar exemption under the Securities Act is available for the sale of all of such Holder’s shares without limitation during a three-month period without registration;

(c) the five (5) year anniversary of the IPO.

3. Information and Observer Rights.

3.1 Delivery of Financial Statements. The Company shall deliver to each Major Investor:

(a) as soon as practicable, but in any event within 180 days after the end of each fiscal year of the Company (i) a balance sheet as of the end of such year, (ii) statements of income and cash flows for such year, and a comparison between (x) the actual amounts as of and for such fiscal year and (y) the comparable amounts as included in the Budget (as defined in Subsection 3.1(e)) for such year, with an explanation of any material differences between such amounts and a schedule as to the sources and applications of funds for such year, and (iii) a statement of stockholders’ equity as of the end of such year, all such financial statements audited and certified by independent public accountants of nationally recognized standing selected by the Company;

(b) as soon as practicable, but in any event within forty-five (45) days after the end of each of the first three (3) quarters of each fiscal year of the Company, unaudited statements of income for such fiscal quarter, and an unaudited balance sheet, a statement of cash flows, and a statement of stockholders’ equity as of the end of such fiscal quarter, all prepared in accordance with GAAP (except that such financial statements may (i) be subject to normal year-

 

15


end audit adjustments; and (ii) not contain all notes thereto that may be required in accordance with GAAP);

(c) as soon as practicable, but in any event within forty-five (45) days after the end of each of the first three (3) quarters of each fiscal year of the Company, a statement showing the number of shares of each class and series of capital stock and securities convertible into or exercisable for shares of capital stock outstanding at the end of the period, the Common Stock issuable upon conversion or exercise of any outstanding securities convertible or exercisable for Common Stock and the exchange ratio or exercise price applicable thereto, and the number of shares of issued stock options and stock options not yet issued but reserved for issuance, if any, all in sufficient detail as to permit the Major Investors to calculate their respective percentage equity ownership in the Company, and certified by the chief financial officer or chief executive officer of the Company as being true, complete, and correct;

(d) as soon as practicable, but in any event within thirty (30) days of the end of each month, an unaudited income statement for such month, a statement of cash flows, and an unaudited balance sheet and statement of stockholders’ equity as of the end of such month, all prepared in accordance with GAAP (except that such financial statements may (i) be subject to normal year-end audit adjustments and (ii) not contain all notes thereto that may be required in accordance with GAAP);

(e) as soon as practicable, but in any event thirty (30) days before the end of each fiscal year, a budget and business plan for the next fiscal year (collectively, the “Budget”), approved by the Board of Directors including at least four of the Preferred Directors, prepared on a monthly basis, including balance sheets, income statements, and statements of cash flow for such months and, promptly after prepared, any other budgets or revised budgets prepared by the Company;

(f) with respect to the financial statements called for in Subsection 3.1(a), Subsection 3.1(b) and Subsection 3.1(d), an instrument executed by the chief financial officer and chief executive officer of the Company certifying that such financial statements were prepared in accordance with GAAP consistently applied with prior practice for earlier periods (except as otherwise set forth in Subsection 3.1(b) and Subsection 3.1(d)) and fairly present the financial condition of the Company and its results of operation for the periods specified therein; and

(g) such other information relating to the financial condition, business, prospects, or corporate affairs of the Company as any Major Investor may from time to time reasonably request; provided, however, that the Company shall not be obligated under this Subsection 3.1 to provide information (i) that the Board of Directors reasonably determines in good faith upon advice of outside counsel to be a trade secret or confidential information (unless covered by an enforceable confidentiality agreement, in a form acceptable to the Company); or (ii) the disclosure of which would adversely affect the attorney-client privilege between the Company and its counsel, as determined by the Board of Directors in good faith upon advice of outside counsel.

 

16


If, for any period, the Company has any subsidiary whose accounts are consolidated with those of the Company, then in respect of such period the financial statements delivered pursuant to the foregoing sections shall be the consolidated and consolidating financial statements of the Company and all such consolidated subsidiaries.

Notwithstanding anything else in this Subsection 3.1 to the contrary, the Company may cease providing the information set forth in this Subsection 3.1 during the period starting with the date thirty (30) days before the Company’s good-faith estimate of the date of filing of a registration statement if it reasonably concludes it must do so to comply with the SEC rules applicable to such registration statement and related offering; provided that the Company’s covenants under this Subsection 3.1 shall be reinstated at such time as the Company is no longer actively employing its commercially reasonable efforts to cause such registration statement to become effective.

3.2 Inspection. The Company shall permit each Major Investor, at such Major Investor’s expense, to visit and inspect the Company’s properties; examine its books of account and records; and discuss the Company’s affairs, finances, and accounts with its officers, during normal business hours of the Company as may be reasonably requested by the Major Investor; provided, however, that the Company shall not be obligated pursuant to this Subsection 3.2 to provide access to any information that the Board of Directors reasonably and in good faith upon advice of outside counsel considers to be a trade secret or confidential information (unless covered by an enforceable confidentiality agreement, in form acceptable to the Company) or the disclosure of which would adversely affect the attorney-client privilege between the Company and its counsel, as determined by the Board of Directors in good faith upon advice of outside counsel.

3.3 Termination of Information. The covenants set forth in Subsection 3.1 and Subsection 3.2 shall terminate and be of no further force or effect (i) immediately before the consummation of the IPO, (ii) when the Company first becomes subject to the periodic reporting requirements of Section 12(g) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, or (iii) upon the closing of a Deemed Liquidation Event, as such term is defined in the Certificate of Incorporation, whichever event occurs first.

3.4 Confidentiality. Each Investor agrees that such Investor will keep confidential and will not disclose, divulge, or use for any purpose (other than to monitor its investment in the Company) any confidential information obtained from the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement (including notice of the Company’s intention to file a registration statement), unless such confidential information (a) is known or becomes known to the public in general (other than as a result of a breach of this Subsection 3.4 by such Investor), (b) is or has been independently developed or conceived by such Investor without use of the Company’s confidential information, or (c) is or has been made known or disclosed to such Investor by a third party without a breach of any obligation of confidentiality such third party may have to the Company; provided, however, that an Investor may disclose confidential information (i) to its attorneys, accountants, consultants, and other professionals to the extent necessary to obtain their services in connection with monitoring its investment in the Company; (ii) to any prospective purchaser of any Registrable Securities from such Investor, if such prospective purchaser agrees to be bound by the provisions of this Subsection 3.4; (iii) to any existing or prospective Affiliate, partner, member, stockholder, or wholly owned subsidiary of such Investor in the ordinary course

 

17


of business, provided that such Investor informs such Person that such information is confidential and directs such Person to maintain the confidentiality of such information; or (iv) as may otherwise be required by law, regulation, rule, court order or subpoena, provided that such Investor promptly notifies the Company of such disclosure and takes reasonable steps to minimize the extent of any such required disclosure.

4. Rights to Future Stock Issuances.

4.1 Right of First Offer. Subject to the terms and conditions of this Subsection 4.1 and applicable securities laws, if the Company proposes to offer or sell any New Securities, the Company shall first offer such New Securities to each Major Investor. A Major Investor shall be entitled to apportion the right of first offer hereby granted to it in such proportions as it deems appropriate, among (i) itself, (ii) its Affiliates and (iii) its beneficial interest holders, such as limited partners, members or any other Person having “beneficial ownership,” as such term is defined in Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act, of such Major Investor (“Investor Beneficial Owners”); provided that each such Affiliate or Investor Beneficial Owner agrees to enter into this Agreement and each of the Amended and Restated Voting Agreement and Amended and Restated Right of First Refusal and Co-Sale Agreement of even date herewith among the Company, the Investors and the other parties named therein, as an “Investor” under each such agreement, and agrees to purchase at least such number of New Securities as are allocable hereunder to the Major Investor holding the fewest number of Preferred Stock and any other Derivative Securities.

(a) The Company shall give notice (the “Offer Notice”) to each Major Investor, stating (i) its bona fide intention to offer such New Securities, (ii) the number of such New Securities to be offered, and (iii) the price and terms, if any, upon which it proposes to offer such New Securities.

(b) By notification to the Company within twenty (20) days after the Offer Notice is given, each Major Investor may elect to purchase or otherwise acquire, at the price and on the terms specified in the Offer Notice, up to that portion of such New Securities which equals the proportion that the Common Stock then held by such Major Investor (including all shares of Common Stock then issuable (directly or indirectly) upon conversion and/or exercise, as applicable, of the Preferred Stock and any other Derivative Securities then held by such Major Investor) bears to the total Common Stock of the Company then held by all the Major Investors (including all shares of Common Stock issuable (directly or indirectly) upon conversion and/or exercise, as applicable, of the Preferred Stock and any other Derivative Securities then held by all the Major Investors). At the expiration of such twenty (20) day period, the Company shall promptly notify each Major Investor that elects to purchase or acquire all the shares available to it (each, a “Fully Exercising Investor”) of any other Major Investor’s failure to do likewise. During the ten (10) day period commencing after the Company has given such notice, each Fully Exercising Investor may, by giving notice to the Company, elect to purchase or acquire, in addition to the number of shares specified above, up to that portion of the New Securities for which Major Investors were entitled to subscribe but that were not subscribed for by the Major Investors which is equal to the proportion that the Common Stock issued and held, or issuable (directly or indirectly) upon conversion and/or exercise, as applicable, of Preferred Stock and any other Derivative Securities then held, by such Fully Exercising Investor bears to the Common Stock

 

18


issued and held, or issuable (directly or indirectly) upon conversion and/or exercise, as applicable, of the Preferred Stock and any other Derivative Securities then held, by all Fully Exercising Investors who wish to purchase such unsubscribed shares. The closing of any sale pursuant to this Subsection 4.1(b) shall occur within the later of one hundred and twenty (120) days of the date that the Offer Notice is given and the date of initial sale of New Securities pursuant to Subsection 4.1(c).

(c) If all New Securities referred to in the Offer Notice are not elected to be purchased or acquired as provided in Subsection 4.1(b), the Company may, during the ninety (90) day period following the expiration of the periods provided in Subsection 4.1(b), offer and sell the remaining unsubscribed portion of such New Securities to any Person or Persons at a price not less than, and upon terms no more favorable to the offeree than, those specified in the Offer Notice. If the Company does not enter into an agreement for the sale of the New Securities within such period, or if such agreement is not consummated within thirty (30) days of the execution thereof, the right provided hereunder shall be deemed to be revived and such New Securities shall not be offered unless first reoffered to the Major Investors in accordance with this Subsection 4.1.

(d) The right of first offer in this Subsection 4.1 shall not be applicable to (i) Exempted Securities (as defined in the Certificate of Incorporation); (ii) shares of Common Stock issued in the IPO and (iii) the issuances of shares of Series B Preferred Stock pursuant to the Purchase Agreement.

4.2 Termination. The covenants set forth in Subsection 4.1 shall terminate and be of no further force or effect (i) immediately before the consummation of the IPO, (ii) when the Company first becomes subject to the periodic reporting requirements of Section 12(g) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, or (iii) upon the closing of a Deemed Liquidation Event, as such term is defined in the Certificate of Incorporation, whichever event occurs first.

5. Additional Covenants.

5.1 Insurance. The Company shall obtain, within ninety (90) days of the date hereof, from financially sound and reputable insurers Directors and Officers liability insurance and term “key-person” insurance on Todd Harris, in an amount and on terms and conditions satisfactory to the Board of Directors including at least four of the Preferred Directors, and will use commercially reasonable efforts to cause each such insurance policy to be maintained until such time as the Board of Directors including at least four of the Preferred Directors determines that such insurance should be discontinued. The policy shall not be cancelable by the Company without prior approval by the Board of Directors including at least four of the Preferred Directors. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Section 5.1 to the contrary, for so long as a Preferred Director (as defined in the Certificate of Incorporation) is serving on the Board of Directors, the Company shall not cease to maintain a Directors and Officers liability insurance policy in an aggregate amount of at least two (2) million unless approved by each of the Preferred Directors, and the Company shall annually, within one hundred twenty (120) days after the end of each fiscal year of the Company, deliver to the Investors a certification that such a Directors and Officers liability insurance policy remains in effect.

 

19


5.2 Employee Agreements. The Company will cause (i) each Person now or hereafter employed by it or by any subsidiary (or engaged by the Company or any subsidiary as a consultant/independent contractor) with access to confidential information and/or trade secrets to enter into a nondisclosure and proprietary rights assignment agreement; and (ii) each employee hired by it after the date hereof that is a Vice President level employee or above, to enter into a noncompetition and nonsolicitation agreement (only for the duration of employment), substantially in the form approved by the Board of Directors including at least four of the Preferred Directors (the “Form Restrictive Covenant Agreement”). Additionally, within 90 days following the date hereof, the Company shall cause each employee currently employed by it at the Vice President level or above to execute the Form Restrictive Covenant Agreement. In addition, the Company shall not amend, modify, terminate, waive, or otherwise alter, in whole or in part, any of the above-referenced agreements or any restricted stock agreement between the Company and any employee, without the approval of the Board of Directors, including consent of at least four of the Preferred Directors.

5.3 Employee Stock. Unless otherwise approved by the Board of Directors, including at least four of the Preferred Directors, all future employees and consultants of the Company who purchase, receive options to purchase, or receive awards of shares of the Company’s capital stock after the date hereof shall be required to execute restricted stock or option agreements, as applicable, providing for (i) vesting of shares over a four (4) year period, with the first twenty-five percent (25%) of such shares vesting following twelve (12) months of continued employment or service, and the remaining shares vesting in equal monthly installments over the following thirty-six (36) months with no acceleration, and (ii) a market stand-off provision substantially similar to that in Subsection 2.11. Without the prior approval by the Board of Directors, including at least four of the Preferred Directors, the Company shall not amend, modify, terminate, waive or otherwise alter, in whole or in part, any stock purchase, stock restriction or option agreement with any existing employee or service provider if such amendment would cause it to be inconsistent with this Subsection 5.3. In addition, unless otherwise approved by the Board of Directors, including at least four of the Preferred Directors, the Company shall retain (and not waive) a “right of first refusal” on employee transfers until the Company’s IPO and shall have the right to repurchase unvested shares at cost upon termination of employment of a holder of restricted stock.

5.4 Qualified Small Business Stock. The Company shall use commercially reasonable efforts to cause the shares of Series A Preferred Stock, as well as any shares into which such shares are converted, within the meaning of Section 1202(f) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”), to constitute “qualified small business stock” as defined in Section 1202(c) of the Code; provided, however, that such requirement shall not be applicable if the Board of Directors including at least four of the Preferred Directors determines, in its good-faith business judgment, that such qualification is inconsistent with the best interests of the Company. The Company shall submit to its stockholders (including the Investors) and to the Internal Revenue Service any reports that may be required under Section 1202(d)(1)(C) of the Code and the regulations promulgated thereunder. In addition, within twenty (20) business days after any Investor’s written request therefor, the Company shall, at its option, either (i) deliver to such Investor a written statement indicating whether (and what portion of) such Investor’s interest in the Company constitutes “qualified small business stock” as defined in Section 1202(c) of the Code or (ii) deliver to such Investor such factual information in the Company’s possession as is reasonably necessary to enable

 

20


such Investor to determine whether (and what portion of) such Investor’s interest in the Company constitutes “qualified small business stock” as defined in Section 1202(c) of the Code.

5.5 Board Matters. Unless otherwise determined by the vote of at least four of the Preferred Directors then in office, the Board of Directors shall meet at least quarterly in accordance with an agreed-upon schedule. The Company shall reimburse the directors for all reasonable out-of-pocket travel expenses incurred. Each Preferred Director shall be permitted to serve on the board of directors (or similar governing body) of each subsidiary of the Company. Each Preferred Director shall be permitted to serve on each committee or subcommittee of the Board of Directors and the board of directors (or similar governing body) of each subsidiary of the Company.

5.6 Matters Requiring Preferred Director Approval. So long as the holders of Preferred Stock are entitled to elect a Preferred Director, the Company hereby covenants and agrees with each of the Investors that it shall not, without approval of the Board of Directors, which approval must include the affirmative vote of at least four of the Preferred Directors:

(a) make, or permit any subsidiary to make, any loan or advance to, or own any stock or other securities of, any subsidiary or other corporation, partnership, or other entity unless it is wholly owned by the Company;

(b) make, or permit any subsidiary to make, any loan or advance to any Person, including, without limitation, any employee or director of the Company or any subsidiary, except advances and similar expenditures in the ordinary course of business or under the terms of an employee stock or option plan approved by the Board of Directors including at least four of the Preferred Directors;

(c) guarantee, directly or indirectly, or permit any subsidiary to guarantee, directly or indirectly, any indebtedness except for trade accounts of the Company or any subsidiary arising in the ordinary course of business;

(d) make any investment inconsistent with any investment policy approved by the Board of Directors including at least four of the Preferred Directors;

(e) incur any aggregate indebtedness in excess of $200,000 that is not already included in a budget approved by the Board of Directors, other than trade credit incurred in the ordinary course of business;

(f) otherwise enter into or be a party to any transaction with any director, officer, or employee of the Company or any “associate” (as defined in Rule 12b-2 promulgated under the Exchange Act) of any such Person, except for (i) transactions contemplated by this Agreement and the Purchase Agreement and (ii) transactions resulting in payments to or by the Company in an aggregate amount less than $60,000 per year;

(g) hire, terminate, or change the compensation of the executive officers, including approving any option grants or stock awards to executive officers;

 

21


(h) change the principal business of the Company, enter new lines of business, or exit the current line of business;

(i) sell, assign, license, pledge, or encumber material technology or intellectual property, other than licenses granted or entered into in the ordinary course of business; or

(j) enter into any corporate strategic relationship involving the payment, contribution, or assignment by the Company or to the Company of money or assets greater than $100,000.

5.7 Successor Indemnification. If the Company or any of its successors or assignees consolidates with or merges into any other Person and is not the continuing or surviving corporation or entity of such consolidation or merger, then to the extent necessary, proper provision shall be made so that the successors and assignees of the Company assume the obligations of the Company with respect to indemnification of members of the Board of Directors as in effect immediately before such transaction, whether such obligations are contained in the Company’s Bylaws, the Certificate of Incorporation, or elsewhere, as the case may be.

5.8 Expenses of Counsel. In the event of a transaction which is a Sale of the Company (as defined in the Amended and Restated Voting Agreement of even date herewith among the Investors, the Company and the other parties named therein), the reasonable fees and disbursements, not to exceed $50,000, of one counsel for the Investors (“Investor Counsel”), in their capacities as stockholders, shall be borne and paid by the Company. At the outset of considering a transaction which, if consummated would constitute a Sale of the Company, the Company shall obtain the ability to share with the Investor Counsel (and such counsel’s clients) and shall share the confidential information (including, without limitation, the initial and all subsequent drafts of memoranda of understanding, letters of intent and other transaction documents and related noncompete, employment, consulting and other compensation agreements and plans) pertaining to and memorializing any of the transactions which, individually or when aggregated with others would constitute the Sale of the Company. The Company shall be obligated to share (and cause the Company’s counsel and investment bankers to share) such materials when distributed to the Company’s executives and/or any one or more of the other parties to such transaction(s). In the event that Investor Counsel deems it appropriate, in its reasonable discretion, to enter into a joint defense agreement or other arrangement to enhance the ability of the parties to protect their communications and other reviewed materials under the attorney client privilege, the Company shall, and shall direct its counsel to, execute and deliver to Investor Counsel and its clients such an agreement in form and substance reasonably acceptable to Investor Counsel. In the event that one or more of the other party or parties to such transactions require the clients of Investor Counsel to enter into a confidentiality agreement and/or joint defense agreement in order to receive such information, then the Company shall share whatever information can be shared without entry into such agreement and shall, at the same time, in good faith work expeditiously to enable Investor Counsel and its clients to negotiate and enter into the appropriate agreement(s) without undue burden to the clients of Investor Counsel.

5.9 Indemnification Matters. The Company hereby acknowledges that five (5) or more of the directors nominated to serve on the Board of Directors by the Investors (each an

 

22


Investor Director”) may have certain rights to indemnification, advancement of expenses and/or insurance provided by one or more of the Investors and certain of their Affiliates (collectively, the “Investor Indemnitors”). The Company hereby agrees (a) that it is the indemnitor of first resort (i.e., its obligations to any such Investor Director are primary and any obligation of the Investor Indemnitors to advance expenses or to provide indemnification for the same expenses or liabilities incurred by such Investor Director are secondary), (b) that it shall be required to advance the full amount of expenses incurred by such Investor Director and shall be liable for the full amount of all expenses, judgments, penalties, fines and amounts paid in settlement by or on behalf of any such Investor Director to the extent legally permitted and as required by the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation or Bylaws of the Company (or any agreement between the Company and such Investor Director), without regard to any rights such Investor Director may have against the Investor Indemnitors, and, (c) that it irrevocably waives, relinquishes and releases the Investor Indemnitors from any and all claims against the Investor Indemnitors for contribution, subrogation or any other recovery of any kind in respect thereof. The Company further agrees that no advancement or payment by the Investor Indemnitors on behalf of any such Investor Director with respect to any claim for which such Investor Director has sought indemnification from the Company shall affect the foregoing and the Investor Indemnitors shall have a right of contribution and/or be subrogated to the extent of such advancement or payment to all of the rights of recovery of such Investor Director against the Company. The Investor Directors and the Investor Indemnitors are intended third-party beneficiaries of this Subsection 5.8and shall have the right, power and authority to enforce the provisions of this Subsection 5.8 as though they were a party to this Agreement.

5.10 Right to Conduct Activities. The Company hereby agrees and acknowledges that each of Alta Partners NextGen Fund II, L.P., RA Capital Healthcare Fund, LP, Blackwell Partners LLC – Series A, RA Capital Nexus Fund, L.P., Boxer Capital, LLC, Canaan XI L.P., Canaan 2020+ Co-Investment L.P., Cormorant Asset Management LP, Nextech VI Oncology SCSp and each of their respective Affiliates (together with their respective Affiliates, the “Lead Investors”) is a professional investment organization, and as such reviews the business plans and related proprietary information of many enterprises, some of which may compete directly or indirectly with the Company’s business (as currently conducted or as currently propose to be conducted). The Company hereby agrees that, to the extent permitted under applicable law, the Lead Investors (and their respective Affiliates) shall not be liable to the Company for any claim arising out of, or based upon, (i) the investment by any of the Lead Investors (or their respective Affiliates) in any entity competitive with the Company, or (ii) actions taken by any partner, officer, employee or other representative of the Lead Investors (or their respective Affiliates) to assist any such competitive company, whether or not such action was taken as a member of the board of directors of such competitive company or otherwise, and whether or not such action has a detrimental effect on the Company; provided, however, that the foregoing shall not relieve (x) any of the Investors from liability associated with the unauthorized disclosure of the Company’s confidential information obtained pursuant to this Agreement, or (y) any director or officer of the Company from any liability associated with his or her fiduciary duties to the Company.

5.11 Termination of Covenants. The covenants set forth in this Section 5, except for Subsections 5.7, 5.8 and 5.9, shall terminate and be of no further force or effect (i) immediately before the consummation of the IPO, (ii) when the Company first becomes subject to the periodic reporting requirements of Section 12(g) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, or (iii) upon a Deemed

 

23


Liquidation Event, as such term is defined in the Certificate of Incorporation, whichever event occurs first.

6. Miscellaneous.

6.1 Successors and Assigns. The rights under this Agreement may be assigned (but only with all related obligations) by a Holder to a transferee of Registrable Securities that (i) is an Affiliate of a Holder; (ii) is a Holder’s Immediate Family Member or trust for the benefit of an individual Holder or one or more of such Holder’s Immediate Family Members; or (iii) after such transfer, holds at least 200,000 shares of Registrable Securities (subject to appropriate adjustment for stock splits, stock dividends, combinations, and other recapitalizations); provided, however, that (x) the Company is, within a reasonable time after such transfer, furnished with written notice of the name and address of such transferee and the Registrable Securities with respect to which such rights are being transferred; and (y) such transferee agrees in a written instrument delivered to the Company to be bound by and subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement, including the provisions of Subsection 2.11. For the purposes of determining the number of shares of Registrable Securities held by a transferee, the holdings of a transferee (1) that is an Affiliate or stockholder of a Holder; (2) who is a Holder’s Immediate Family Member; or (3) that is a trust for the benefit of an individual Holder or such Holder’s Immediate Family Member shall be aggregated together and with those of the transferring Holder; provided further that all transferees who would not qualify individually for assignment of rights shall, as a condition to the applicable transfer, establish a single attorney-in-fact for the purpose of exercising any rights, receiving notices, or taking any action under this Agreement. The terms and conditions of this Agreement inure to the benefit of and are binding upon the respective successors and permitted assignees of the parties. Nothing in this Agreement, express or implied, is intended to confer upon any party other than the parties hereto or their respective successors and permitted assignees any rights, remedies, obligations or liabilities under or by reason of this Agreement, except as expressly provided herein.

6.2 Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by the internal law of the State of Delaware, without regard to conflict of law principles that would result in the application of any law other than the law of the State of Delaware.

6.3 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in two (2) or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. Counterparts may be delivered via facsimile, electronic mail (including pdf or any electronic signature complying with the U.S. federal ESIGN Act of 2000, e.g., www.docusign.com) or other transmission method and any counterpart so delivered shall be deemed to have been duly and validly delivered and be valid and effective for all purposes.

6.4 Titles and Subtitles. The titles and subtitles used in this Agreement are for convenience only and are not to be considered in construing or interpreting this Agreement.

6.5 Notices.

(a) All notices and other communications given or made pursuant to this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed effectively given upon the earlier of actual

 

24


receipt or (i) personal delivery to the party to be notified; (ii) when sent, if sent by electronic mail or facsimile during the recipient’s normal business hours, and if not sent during normal business hours, then on the recipient’s next business day; (iii) five (5) days after having been sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid; or (iv) one (1) business day after the business day of deposit with a nationally recognized overnight courier, freight prepaid, specifying next-day delivery, with written verification of receipt. All communications shall be sent to the respective parties at their addresses as set forth on Schedule A hereto, or to the principal office of the Company and to the attention of the Chief Executive Officer, in the case of the Company, or to such email address, facsimile number, or address as subsequently modified by written notice given in accordance with this Subsection 6.5. If notice is given to the Company, a copy shall also be sent to Paul Hastings LLP, 4747 Executive Drive, Twelfth Floor, San Diego, CA 92121, Attention: Carl R. Sanchez and if notice is given to Stockholders, a copy shall also be given to Cooley LLP, 500 Boylston Street, 14th Floor, Boston, MA 02116, Attention: Alfred L. Browne and Cooley LLP, 11951 Freedom Drive, 14th Floor, Reston, VA 20190, Attention: Christian Plaza.

6.6 Amendments and Waivers. Any term of this Agreement may be amended, modified or terminated and the observance of any term of this Agreement may be waived (either generally or in a particular instance, and either retroactively or prospectively) only with the written consent of the Company and the holders of (i) at least sixty percent (60%) of the then outstanding shares Common Stock issuable or issued upon conversion of the Series A Preferred Stock and (ii) at least sixty percent (60%) of the shares of the then outstanding Common Stock issuable or issued upon conversion of the Series B Preferred Stock; provided that the Company may in its sole discretion waive compliance with Subsection 2.12(c) (and the Company’s failure to object promptly in writing after notification of a proposed assignment allegedly in violation of Subsection 2.12(c) shall be deemed to be a waiver); and provided further that any provision hereof may be waived by any waiving party on such party’s own behalf, without the consent of any other party. Notwithstanding the foregoing, (a) this Agreement may not be amended, modified or terminated and the observance of any term hereof may not be waived with respect to any Investor without the written consent of such Investor, unless such amendment, modification, termination, or waiver applies to all Investors in the same fashion (it being agreed that a waiver of the provisions of Section 4 with respect to a particular transaction shall be deemed to apply to all Investors in the same fashion if such waiver does so by its terms, notwithstanding the fact that certain Investors may nonetheless, by agreement with the Company, purchase securities in such transaction; provided, however, that if a Major Investor, directly or indirectly, including by amending or waiving the definition of “New Securities” or “Exempted Securities” (as defined in the Certificate of Incorporation), waives the right of first offer in Section 4.1 and thereafter purchases New Securities, then each other Major Investor shall also be permitted to purchase such New Securities (based on the level of participation of the Major Investor purchasing the largest portion of such Major Investor’s pro rata share), in accordance with the other provisions (including notice and election periods) set forth in Section 4.1 (it being understood that this proviso may not be amended, modified or waived without the prior written consent of each Major Investor))) and (b) Subsections 3.1 and 3.2, Section 4 and any other section of this Agreement applicable to the Major Investors (including this clause (b) of this Subsection 6.6) may not be amended, modified, terminated or waived without the written consent of the holders of (i) at least sixty percent (60%) of the Series A Preferred Stock then outstanding and held by the Major Investors and (ii) at least sixty percent (60%) of the Series B Preferred Stock then outstanding and held by the Major

 

25


Investors; provided, however, notwithstanding the foregoing, this Agreement may not be amended, modified or terminated, and no provision hereof may be waived, in each case, in any way which would adversely affect the rights of any Major Investor hereunder in a manner disproportionate to any adverse effect such amendment, modification, termination or waiver would have on the rights of the other Major Investors hereunder, without also the written consent of each such Major Investor. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Schedule A hereto may be amended by the Company from time to time to add transferees of any Registrable Securities in compliance with the terms of this Agreement without the consent of the other parties; and Schedule A hereto may also be amended by the Company after the date of this Agreement without the consent of the other parties to add information regarding any additional Investor who becomes a party to this Agreement in accordance with Subsection 6.9. The Company shall give prompt notice of any amendment, modification or termination hereof or waiver hereunder to any party hereto that did not consent in writing to such amendment, modification, termination, or waiver. Any amendment, modification, termination, or waiver effected in accordance with this Subsection 6.6 shall be binding on all parties hereto, regardless of whether any such party has consented thereto. No waivers of or exceptions to any term, condition, or provision of this Agreement, in any one or more instances, shall be deemed to be or construed as a further or continuing waiver of any such term, condition, or provision.

6.7 Severability. In case any one or more of the provisions contained in this Agreement is for any reason held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, such invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability shall not affect any other provision of this Agreement, and such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision shall be reformed and construed so that it will be valid, legal, and enforceable to the maximum extent permitted by law.

6.8 Aggregation of Stock. All shares of Registrable Securities held or acquired by Affiliates shall be aggregated together for the purpose of determining the availability of any rights under this Agreement and such Affiliated persons may apportion such rights as among themselves in any manner they deem appropriate.

6.9 Additional Investors. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, if the Company issues additional shares of the Company’s Series B Preferred Stock after the date hereof, whether pursuant to the Purchase Agreement or otherwise, any purchaser of such shares of Series B Preferred Stock may become a party to this Agreement by executing and delivering an additional counterpart signature page to this Agreement, and thereafter shall be deemed an “Investor” for all purposes hereunder. No action or consent by the Investors shall be required for such joinder to this Agreement by such additional Investor, so long as such additional Investor has agreed in writing to be bound by all of the obligations as an “Investor” hereunder.

6.10 Entire Agreement. This Agreement (including any Schedules and Exhibits hereto) constitutes the full and entire understanding and agreement among the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof, and any other written or oral agreement relating to the subject matter hereof existing between the parties is expressly canceled. Upon the effectiveness of this Agreement, the Prior Agreement shall be deemed amended and restated and superseded and replaced in its entirety by this Agreement, and shall be of no further force or effect.

 

26


6.11 Dispute Resolution. The parties (a) hereby irrevocably and unconditionally submit to the jurisdiction of the state courts of Delaware and to the jurisdiction of the United States District Court for the District of Delaware for the purpose of any suit, action or other proceeding arising out of or based upon this Agreement, (b) agree not to commence any suit, action or other proceeding arising out of or based upon this Agreement except in the state courts of Delaware or the United States District Court for the District of Delaware, and (c) hereby waive, and agree not to assert, by way of motion, as a defense, or otherwise, in any such suit, action or proceeding, any claim that it is not subject personally to the jurisdiction of the above-named courts, that its property is exempt or immune from attachment or execution, that the suit, action or proceeding is brought in an inconvenient forum, that the venue of the suit, action or proceeding is improper or that this Agreement or the subject matter hereof may not be enforced in or by such court.

WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL: EACH PARTY HEREBY WAIVES ITS RIGHTS TO A JURY TRIAL OF ANY CLAIM OR CAUSE OF ACTION BASED UPON OR ARISING OUT OF THIS AGREEMENT, THE OTHER TRANSACTION DOCUMENTS, THE SECURITIES OR THE SUBJECT MATTER HEREOF OR THEREOF. THE SCOPE OF THIS WAIVER IS INTENDED TO BE ALL-ENCOMPASSING OF ANY AND ALL DISPUTES THAT MAY BE FILED IN ANY COURT AND THAT RELATE TO THE SUBJECT MATTER OF THIS TRANSACTION, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, CONTRACT CLAIMS, TORT CLAIMS (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE), BREACH OF DUTY CLAIMS, AND ALL OTHER COMMON LAW AND STATUTORY CLAIMS. THIS SECTION HAS BEEN FULLY DISCUSSED BY EACH OF THE PARTIES HERETO AND THESE PROVISIONS WILL NOT BE SUBJECT TO ANY EXCEPTIONS. EACH PARTY HERETO HEREBY FURTHER WARRANTS AND REPRESENTS THAT SUCH PARTY HAS REVIEWED THIS WAIVER WITH ITS LEGAL COUNSEL, AND THAT SUCH PARTY KNOWINGLY AND VOLUNTARILY WAIVES ITS JURY TRIAL RIGHTS FOLLOWING CONSULTATION WITH LEGAL COUNSEL.

6.12 Delays or Omissions. No delay or omission to exercise any right, power, or remedy accruing to any party under this Agreement, upon any breach or default of any other party under this Agreement, shall impair any such right, power, or remedy of such nonbreaching or nondefaulting party, nor shall it be construed to be a waiver of or acquiescence to any such breach or default, or to any similar breach or default thereafter occurring, nor shall any waiver of any single breach or default be deemed a waiver of any other breach or default theretofore or thereafter occurring. All remedies, whether under this Agreement or by law or otherwise afforded to any party, shall be cumulative and not alternative.

[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]

 

27


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Amended and Restated Investors’ Rights Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

COMPANY:
TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris

Name:   Todd Harris
Title:   President and Chief Executive Officer


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Investors’ Rights Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
JANUS HENDERSON CAPITAL FUNDS PLC ON BEHALF OF ITS SERIES JANUS HENDERSON GLOBAL LIFE SCIENCES FUND
By: Janus Capital Management LLC, its
investment advisor
By:  

/s/ Andrew Acker

Name:   Andrew Acker
Title:   Authorized Signatory
JANUS HENDERSON HORIZON FUND - BIOTECHNOLOGY FUND
By: Janus Capital Management LLC, its
investment advisor
By:  

/s/ Andrew Acker

Name:   Andrew Acker
Title:   Authorized Signatory
JANUS HENDERSON BIOTECH INNOVATION MASTER FUND LIMITED
By: Janus Capital Management LLC, its
investment advisor
By:  

/s/ Andrew Acker

Name:   Andrew Acker
Title:   Authorized Signatory


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTOR:
LOGOS OPPORTUNITIES FUND II, L.P.
By:   Logos Opportunities GP, LLC
  Its General Partner
By:  

/s/ Graham Walmsley

Name:   Graham Walmsley
Title:   Managing Member
By:  

/s/ Arsani William

Name:   Arsani William
Title:   Managing Partner


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTOR:
Nextech VI GP S.à r.l. as General Partner
on behalf of
NEXTECH VI ONCOLOGY SCSP
By:  

/s/ Dalia Bleyer

Name:   Dalia Bleyer
Title   Manager
By:  

/s/ Rocco Sgobbo

Name:   Rocco Sgobbo
Title:   Partner


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTOR:
ALTA PARTNERS NEXTGEN FUND II, L.P.
By:   Alta Partners NextGen Fund II Management, LLC, its general partner
By:  

/s/ Larry Randall

Name:   Larry Randall
Title:   Chief Financial Officer


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTOR:
BIOTECHNOLOGY VALUE FUND, L.P.
By:  

/s/ Mark Lampert

Name:   Mark Lampert
Title:   Chief Executive Officer BVF I GP LLC, itself General Partner of Biotechnology Value Fund, L.P.
BIOTECHNOLOGY VALUE FUND II, L.P.
By:  

/s/ Mark Lampert

Name:   Mark Lampert
Title:   Chief Executive Officer BVF II GP LLC, itself General Partner of Biotechnology Value Fund II, L.P.
BIOTECHNOLOGY VALUE TRADING FUND OS, L.P.
By:  

/s/ Mark Lampert

Name:   Mark Lampert
Title:   President BVF Inc., General Partner of BVF Partners L.P., itself sole member of BVF Partners OS Ltd., itself GP of Biotechnology Value Trading Fund OS, L.P.


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
CANAAN XI L.P.
By:   Canaan Partners XI LLC, its General Partner
By:  

/s/ Nina Kjellson

Name:   Nina Kjellson
Title:   Manager
CANAAN 2020+ CO-INVESTMENT L.P.
By:   Canaan Partners 2020+ Co-Investment LLC, as General Partner
By:   Canaan Management LLC, its Manager
By:  

/s/ John J. Pacifico

Name:   John J. Pacifico
Title:   Chief Operating Officer


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
CORMORANT PRIVATE HEALTHCARE FUND III, LP
By:   Cormorant Private Healthcare GP, LLC
By:  

/s/ Bihua Chen

Name:   Bihua Chen
Title:   Managing Member
CORMORANT GLOBAL HEALTHCARE MASTER FUND, LP
By:   Cormorant Global Healthcare GP, LLC
By:  

/s/ Bihua Chen

Name:   Bihua Chen
Title:   Managing Member
CRMA SPV, LP
By:   Cormorant Asset Management, LP Its attorney-in-fact
By:  

/s/ Bihua Chen

Name:   Bihua Chen
Title:   Managing Member


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
BOXER CAPITAL, LLC
By:  

/s/ Aaron Davis

Name:   Aaron Davis
Title:   Chief Executive Officer
MVA INVESTORS, LLC
By:  

/s/ Aaron Davis

Name:   Aaron Davis
Title:   Chief Executive Officer


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
RA CAPITAL NEXUS FUND, L.P.
By:   RA Capital Nexus Fund GP, LLC
Its:   General Partner
By:  

/s/ Peter Kolchinsky

Name:   Peter Kolchinsky
Title:   Manager
RA CAPITAL HEALTHCARE FUND, L.P.
By:   RA Capital Healthcare Fund GP, LLC Its General Partner
By:  

/s/ Peter Kolchinsky

Name:   Peter Kolchinsky
Title:   Manager


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Investors’ Rights Agreement as of the date first written above.

 

INVESTORS:
By:  

/s/ Dominic Spinella

Name:   Dominic Spinella


SCHEDULE A

Investors

Alta Partners NextGen Fund II, L.P.

RA Capital Healthcare Fund, L.P.

Blackwell Partners LLC – Series A

RA Capital Nexus Fund, L.P

Boxer Capital, LLC

MVA Investors, LLC

Cannan XI L.P.

Biobrit, LLC

Ryan Harris

MidAtlantic IRA, LLC FBO Jared Smith Roth IRA

Eileen M. More

Josh Harris

Richard Harris

BC GRIT TYRA, LLC

Anne Bensen

Randy Harris

Jason Whiting

Charlie McDermott

Geoffrey von Maltzahn

Todd Harris

Clark Seegmiller

James R Bell 2005 Trust

Ted Schwarz

Jeff Yates

Jeffrey Barker

Jason Check

The Pellini Family Trust Dated 9/22/2014

The Wiklund Family Trust

Teresa Bell Trust

James R. Bell 2011 Trust

MidAtlantic IRA, LLC FBO Glen Smith

IRA

Lundquist Family Trust

Jared Salter

Jon Moe & Marilee Jacobson

Picket Fence IP LLC

Lindy Schermerhorn

Jason Harris

Ryan Baughman

Davis Bell

Slade Combs

Finney Family 2002 Trust, UDT


Christian Bell

Alice Chen Kim

Daniel Bensen

Nathan Harris

Rita Issa

Elizabeth Mason

Catherine Grantham

John and Sara Blake Family Trust

Cruxio, Inc.

Carl Sanchez

Van den Boom Ventures LLC

Isan Chen

Canaan 2020+ Co-Investment L.P.

Nextech VI Oncology SCSP

Biotechnology Value Fund, L.P.

Biotechnology Value Fund II, L.P.

Biotechnology Value Trading Fund OS, L.P.

Cormorant Private Healthcare Fund III, LP

Cormorant Global Healthcare Master Fund, LP

CRMA SPV, LP

LOGOS OPPORTUNITIES FUND II, L.P.

Janus Henderson Capital Funds PLC -

Janus Henderson Global Life Sciences Fund

Janus Henderson Horizon Fund -

Biotechnology Fund

Janus Henderson Biotech Innovation

Master Fund Limited

Dominic Spinella

 

40

EX-10.1

Exhibit 10.1

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

 

2020 Equity Incentive Plan

 

Adopted by the Board of Directors: January 6, 2020

Approved by the Stockholders: January 6, 2020

Termination Date: January 6, 2030

1. General.

(a) Purpose. Tyra Biosciences, Inc. (the “Company”) hereby establishes this 2019 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”). This Plan is intended: (i) to attract and retain the best available personnel to ensure the Company’s success and accomplish the Company’s goals; (ii) to incentivize Employees, Directors, and Consultants with long-term equity-based compensation to align their interests with the interests of the Company’s stockholders; and (iii) to promote the success of the Company’s business.

(b) Eligible Award Recipients. Employees, Consultants, Directors, or non-Employees, non-Consultants, non-Directors to whom an offer of a service relationship as an Employee, Consultant, or Director, Investor Director Provider, has been or is being extended (together, “Eligible Persons”) may receive Awards, subject to the terms of this Plan.

(c) Definitions. Capitalized terms in this Plan are defined in Section 23.

(d) Effective Date. This Plan shall become effective on the date it is approved by a majority of votes cast at a duly held meeting of the Company’s stockholders (or by such other stockholder vote that the Committee determines to be sufficient for the issuance of Shares and Awards according to the Company’s governing documents and Applicable Law).

(e) Effect on Other Plans, Awards, and Arrangements. No payment pursuant to this Plan shall be taken into account in determining any benefits under any Company or Affiliate benefit plan, except to the extent otherwise expressly provided in writing in such other plan.

2. Types of Awards. The Company may grant the following types of Awards under this Plan:

 

Options    Section 5
Share Appreciation Rights (“SARs”)    Section 6
Restricted Shares, Restricted Share Units (“RSUs”), and Unrestricted Shares    Section 7

3. Shares Available for Awards.

(a) Share Reserve; In General. A total of 532,164 Shares may be issued under this Plan, subject to Section 12 below (“Share Reserve”). The Shares deliverable pursuant to Awards shall be authorized but unissued or reacquired Shares, including Shares that the Company repurchased on the open market or otherwise, or that the Company otherwise holds in treasury or trust.

(b) Replenishment; Counting of Shares. Any Shares reserved for a given Award will again be available for future Awards if the Shares for any reason will never be issued to a Participant or


Beneficiary (e.g., due to the Award’s forfeiture, cancellation, or expiration, or pursuant to an Award providing for settlement solely in cash rather than in Shares). Further, and to the extent permitted under Applicable Law, the Share Reserve shall not be reduced by any Shares issued under this Plan through the settlement, assumption, or substitution of outstanding awards or obligations to grant future awards as a condition of the Company’s or an Affiliate’s acquiring another entity or by any Shares issued under this Plan as “inducement grants” under applicable listing rules, if any. Furthermore, Shares withheld in payment of the exercise price or taxes relating to an Award and Shares equal to the number surrendered in payment of any exercise price or Withholding Taxes relating to an Award shall be deemed to not constitute Shares delivered to the Participant and shall again be available for Awards under the Plan.

(c) ISO Share Reserve. The number of Shares that are available for ISO Awards shall not exceed 532,164 Shares (as adjusted under Section 12, and to the full extent allowable under Treas. Reg. § 1.422-2(b)(3)(iii) as in effect on the Effective Date).

4. Eligibility.

(a) General Rule. The Committee shall determine which Eligible Persons may receive Awards. Each Award shall be evidenced by an Award Agreement that sets forth the Grant Date and all other terms and conditions of the Award, is signed on behalf of the Company, and (unless waived by the Committee) is signed by the Eligible Person in acceptance of the Award. The grant of an Award shall not obligate the Company or any Affiliate to continue the employment or service of any Eligible Person, or to provide any future Awards or other remuneration at any time thereafter.

(b) Consultants. A Consultant is eligible for an Award only if, at grant, the offer and/or sale of Company securities to the Consultant is exempt under Rule 701, unless the Company determines the grant need not comply with Rule 701 and will satisfy another exemption under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and comply with all other Applicable Law.

(c) Service to Parent Companies. Awards may not be granted to Employees, Directors and Consultants who are providing Continuous Service only to any “parent” of the Company, as defined in Rule 405, unless (i) the stock underlying the Awards is treated as “service recipient stock” under Code Section 409A (for example, because the Awards are granted pursuant to a corporate transaction such as a spin off transaction), or (ii) the Company, in consultation with its legal counsel, has determined that the Awards are otherwise exempt from or alternatively comply with Code Section 409A.

(d) Award Limits per Person. With respect to each calendar year during the term of this Plan, no Participant may receive Share-settled Awards that relate to more than [●] Shares as adjusted under Section 12.

(e) Replacement Awards. Subject to Applicable Law (including any stockholder approval requirements), in the Committee’s sole discretion and upon terms it deems appropriate, the Committee may grant an Award to a Participant on the condition that the Participant consent to surrender for cancellation Awards received under this Plan or otherwise.

 

2


5. Stock Options.

(a) Grants. For Eligible Persons who are subject to U.S. taxation, Options only may be granted if the Eligible Person is providing services to the Company or any of its subsidiaries such as to qualify the Company as an eligible issuer of service recipient stock within the meaning of Code Section 409A, unless the Award is an ISO. Subject to the special rules for ISOs set forth in Section 5(b) below, the Committee may grant Options to Eligible Persons pursuant to Award Agreements setting forth the type of Option (ISO or Non-ISO) and terms and conditions for exercisability, vesting, and other requirements consistent with this Plan, as the Board deems appropriate, and that may differ for any reason between Eligible Persons, provided in all instances that:

 

  (i)

the exercise price of each Option shall be at least 100% of the Fair Market Value of the underlying Shares on the Grant Date (except the exercise price may be lower than 100% of such Fair Market Value if the Award replaces a previously issued Option or SAR or the Award is designated as a “Section 409A Award” and has either a fixed exercise date or a fixed delivery date); and

 

  (ii)

no Option can be exercised beyond ten years after its Grant Date (or any such shorter period specified in the Award Agreement).

(b) Special ISO Provisions. ISOs may not be granted more than ten years after Board approval of this Plan. The following provisions control any ISO grants:

 

  (i)

Eligibility. The Committee may grant ISOs only to Employees (including officers who are Employees) of the Company or an Affiliate that is a “parent corporation” or “subsidiary corporation” within the meaning of Code Section 424.

 

  (ii)

Documentation. Each Option intended to be an ISO must be specifically designated in the Award Agreement as an ISO; provided that any Option designated as an ISO will be a Non-ISO to the extent the Option fails to meet the requirements of Code Section 422 or the provisions of this Section 5(b). In the case of an ISO, the Committee shall determine on the Grant Date the acceptable methods of paying the exercise price for Shares, and it shall be included in the Award Agreement.

 

  (iii)

$100,000 Limit. To the extent that the aggregate Fair Market Value (determined at the Grant Date) of Shares with respect to which ISOs are exercisable for the first time by a Participant during any calendar year (under all plans of the Company and any Affiliates) exceeds $100,000 (or other limit established in the Code), the excess Options shall be treated as Non-ISOs (starting with the most recently granted Options), notwithstanding anything to the contrary in an Award Agreement. If the limitations of Code Section 422 are amended, the limitations of this subsection automatically shall be adjusted accordingly.

 

3


  (iv)

Grants to Ten Percent Holders. An ISO may be granted to an Employee who is a Ten Percent Holder on the Grant Date only if (A) the term of the ISO is no more than five years from the Grant Date, and (B) the exercise price is at least 110% of the Fair Market Value of the underlying Shares on the Grant Date. If the limitations in Code Section 422 are amended, the limitations of this subsection automatically shall be adjusted accordingly.

 

  (v)

Substitution of Options. If the Company or an Affiliate acquires (whether by purchase, merger, or otherwise) all or substantially all outstanding capital stock or assets of another corporation, or in the event of any reorganization or other transaction qualifying under Code Section 424, the Committee may, in accordance with the provisions of that Code Section, substitute ISOs for ISOs previously granted under the plan of the acquired company or its affiliate, provided (A) the excess of the aggregate Fair Market Value of the Shares subject to an ISO immediately after the substitution over the aggregate exercise price of such shares is not more than the similar excess immediately before the substitution, and (B) the new ISO does not give additional benefits to the Participant, including any extension of the exercise period.

 

  (vi)

Notice of Disqualifying Dispositions. By executing an ISO Award Agreement, a Participant agrees to notify the Company in writing immediately after the Participant sells, transfers or otherwise disposes of any Shares acquired through exercise of the ISO, if such disposition occurs within either of (A) two years of the Grant Date, or (B) one year after the exercise of the ISO being exercised. Each Participant further agrees to provide any information about a disposition of Shares as may be requested by the Company to assist it in complying with any Applicable Laws.

(c) Method of Exercise. Unless otherwise provided in an Award Agreement, each Option may be exercised in whole or in part (provided that the Company shall not be required to issue fractional shares) before it expires, but only pursuant to the applicable Award Agreement, and not during any exercise blackout periods the Committee implements from time to time in its sole discretion. Exercise shall occur by delivery of both written notice of exercise to the secretary of the Company, and payment of the full exercise price for the Shares being purchased. The methods of payment that the Committee may in its discretion accept or commit to accept in an Award Agreement include:

(i) cash or check payable to the Company (in U.S. dollars);

(ii) other Shares that (A) are owned by the Participant who is purchasing Shares pursuant to an Option, (B) have a Fair Market Value on the date of surrender equal to the aggregate exercise price of the Shares as to which the Option is being exercised, (C) at the time of the surrender, are all free and clear of any and all claims, pledges, liens and encumbrances, or any restrictions which would in any manner restrict the transfer of such shares to or by the Company (other than such restrictions as may have existed prior to an issuance of such Shares by the Company to the Participant), and (D) are duly endorsed for transfer to the Company; provided that doing so would not violate the provisions of any Applicable Law or agreement restricting the redemption of the Company’s stock;

 

4


(iii) a net exercise by surrendering to the Company Shares otherwise receivable upon exercise of the Option (e.g., the Company will reduce the number of Shares issued upon exercise of the Option by the largest whole number of shares with a Fair Market Value that does not exceed the aggregate exercise price); provided that the Company consents at the time of exercise, the Option is a Non-ISO, the Participant must pay any remaining balance of the aggregate exercise price not satisfied by the “net exercise” in cash or other permitted form of payment, and Shares will no longer be outstanding under the Option and will not be exercisable thereafter if those Shares (i) are used to pay the exercise price pursuant to the “net exercise,” (ii) are delivered to the Participant as a result of such exercise, or (iii) are withheld to satisfy the Participant’s Withholding Taxes;

(iv) a cashless exercise program that the Committee may approve, from time to time in its discretion, pursuant to which a Participant may elect to concurrently provide irrevocable instructions (A) to the Participant’s broker or dealer to effect the immediate sale of the purchased Shares and remit to the Company, out of the sale proceeds available on the settlement date, sufficient funds to cover the exercise price of the Option plus all applicable Withholding Taxes, and (B) to the Company to deliver the certificates for the purchased Shares directly to the broker or dealer in order to complete the sale;

(v) any combination of the foregoing methods of payment; or

(vi) in any other form of legal consideration acceptable to the Committee in its sole discretion.

The Company shall not be required to deliver Shares pursuant to the exercise of an Option and an Option will be deemed unexercised until the Company has received sufficient funds or value to cover the full exercise price due and all applicable Withholding Taxes.

Notwithstanding anything in this Plan to the contrary, no Participant who is a Director or an “executive officer” of the Company within the meaning of Section 13(k) of the Exchange Act can make payment with respect to any Awards, or continue any extension of credit with respect to such payment with a loan from the Company or a loan arranged by the Company in violation of Section 13(k) of the Exchange Act.

(d) Exercise of Unvested Non-ISOs. The Committee may in its sole discretion set forth in an Award Agreement that a Participant may exercise an unvested Non-ISO, in which case the Shares then issued shall be Restricted Shares having the same vesting restrictions as the unvested Option.

(e) Termination of Continuous Service. The Committee may set forth in the applicable Award Agreement the terms and conditions by which an Option or SAR is exercisable, if at all, after the date of a Participant’s termination of Continuous Service. The Committee may waive or modify these provisions at any time. To the extent that a Participant is not entitled to exercise an Option or SAR on the date of a Participant’s termination of Continuous Service, or if the Participant (or other Person entitled to exercise the Option) does not exercise the Option or SAR within the time and as specified in the Award Agreement or below (as applicable), the Option or SAR shall terminate. If the Company has a contingent contractual obligation to provide for accelerated vesting or extended exercisability after termination of a Participant’s Continuous Service, such Options or SARs shall not terminate at the time they otherwise would terminate but instead shall remain outstanding, until

 

5


the maximum contractual time for determining whether such contingency will occur, and terminate at such time if the contingency has not then occurred; provided that no such extension shall cause an Option or SAR to be exercisable after the 10-year anniversary of its Grant Date or the date such Option or SAR otherwise would have terminated had the Participant remained in Continuous Service.

Subject to Section 5(f) and to the extent an Award Agreement does not otherwise specify the terms and conditions upon which an Option or SAR shall terminate when a Participant terminates Continuous Service, the following provisions apply, subject to any contingency extensions as set forth in the first paragraph of this Section 5(e):

 

Reason for Terminating Continuous Service

  

Option/SAR Termination Date

(I) By the Company for Cause, or what would have been Cause if the Company had known all of the relevant facts, or due to Participant’s material breach of his or her unexpired employment agreement or independent contractor agreement with the Company.    All Options or SARs, whether or not vested, shall immediately expire effective on the date of termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service, or when Cause first existed if earlier.
(II) Disability or Death of the Participant during Continuous Service (in either case unless Reason I applies).    All unvested Options or SARs shall immediately expire effective as of the date of termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service, and all vested and unexercised Options or SARs shall expire 12 months after such termination.
(III) Any other reason.    All unvested Options or SARs shall immediately expire effective on the date of termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service. All vested Options or SARs, to the extent unexercised, shall expire effective 3 months after the date of termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service.

(f) If there is a blackout period (whether under the Company’s insider trading policy, Applicable Law, or a Committee-imposed blackout period) that prohibits buying or selling Shares during any part of the ten day period before an Option expires (as described above) due to a Participant’s termination of Continuous Service, the Option exercise period shall be extended until ten days beyond the end of the blackout period. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Plan or any Award Agreement, no Option can be exercised beyond the date its original term expires as set forth in the Award Agreement or the date on which the Option otherwise would become unexercisable absent termination of Continuous Service.

 

6


(g) Company Cancellation Right. Subject to Applicable Law, if the Fair Market Value for Shares subject to any Option or SAR is more than 50% below their exercise price for more than 90 consecutive business days, the Committee unilaterally may declare the Option or SAR terminated, effective on the date the Committee provides written notice to the Option holder or SAR holder. The Committee may take such action with respect to any or all Options or SARs granted under the Plan and with respect to any individual Option holder or SAR holder or class(es) of Option holders or SAR holders, and the Committee has no obligation to be uniform, consistent, or nondiscriminatory between classes of similarly-situated Option holders or SAR holders, except as required by Applicable Law.

(h) Non-Exempt Employees. An Option or SAR granted to an Employee who is non-exempt for purposes of the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, as amended, will not be first exercisable for any Shares until at least six months after the Grant Date of the Option or SAR (although the Award may vest prior to such date). Consistent with the provisions of the Worker Economic Opportunity Act, the vested portion of any Options and SARs may be exercised earlier than six months after the Grant Date: (i) if the non-exempt Employee dies or suffers a Disability, (ii) upon a corporate transaction in which the Option or SAR is not assumed, continued, or substituted, (iii) upon a Change in Control, or (iv) upon the Participant’s retirement (as may be defined in the Participant’s Award Agreement or other agreement with the Company, or, if no such definition, in accordance with the Company’s then current employment policies and guidelines). The foregoing provision is intended to operate so that any income derived by a non-exempt Employee in connection with the exercise or vesting of an Option or SAR will be exempt from his or her regular rate of pay.

6. SARs.

(a) Grants. The Committee may grant SARs to Eligible Persons pursuant to Award Agreements setting forth terms and conditions awarding appreciation-only rights relating to Shares; provided that the Award Agreement for each SAR shall set forth terms and conditions that are consistent with those for an Option, other than that settlement of the SAR shall occur pursuant to Section 6(b) below.

(b) Settlement. Subject to this Plan, a SAR shall entitle the Participant on exercise to receive Shares with a Fair Market Value on the date of exercise equal to the product of the (i) number of Shares as to which the SAR is being exercised, and (ii) the excess of (A) the Fair Market Value, on such date, of a Share covered by the exercised SAR, over (B) the exercise price designated in the SAR Award Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a SAR Award Agreement may limit the total settlement value that the Participant will be entitled to receive upon exercise, and may provide for settlement in cash, in Shares, or in any combination of cash or Shares that the Committee may authorize pursuant to an Award Agreement. If, on the date on which a SAR or portion thereof is to expire, the Fair Market Value of the underlying Shares exceeds the aggregate exercise price of such SAR, then the SAR shall be deemed exercised and the Participant shall within ten days thereafter receive the Shares and/or cash that would have been issued on such date if the Participant had affirmatively exercised the SAR on that date.

(c) Termination of Continuous Service. See Section 5(e) above.

(d) Company Cancellation Right. See Section 5(g) above.

 

7


(e) Non-Exempt Employees. See Section 5(h) above.

7. Restricted Shares, RSUs, and Unrestricted Shares.

(a) Grant. The Committee may grant Restricted Shares, RSUs, or Unrestricted Shares to Eligible Persons, in all cases pursuant to Award Agreements setting forth terms and conditions consistent with this Plan. As to each Restricted Share or RSU Award, the Committee shall establish the number of Shares deliverable or subject to the Award (which may be determined by a written formula), and the period(s) of time at the end of which all or some restrictions specified in an Award Agreement shall lapse, and the Participant shall receive vested Shares (or cash to the extent provided in the Award Agreement) in settlement of the Award. Such restrictions may include restrictions concerning voting rights and transferability, and may lapse separately or in combination at such times and pursuant to such circumstances or based on such criteria as selected by the Committee, including, without limitation, criteria based on the Participant’s duration of Continuous Service; individual, group, or divisional performance criteria; or Company performance; or other criteria selection by the Committee. The Committee may make Restricted Share and RSU Awards with or without the requirement for payment of cash or other consideration. In addition, the Committee may grant Awards hereunder in the form of Unrestricted Shares which shall vest in full upon the Grant Date or which the Committee may issue pursuant to any program under which one or more Eligible Persons (selected by the Committee in its sole discretion) elect to pay for such Shares or to receive Unrestricted Shares in lieu of cash bonuses that otherwise would be paid.

(b) Vesting and Forfeiture. In an Award Agreement granting Restricted Shares or RSUs, the Committee shall set forth the terms and conditions that establish a “substantial risk of forfeiture” under Code Section 83, and when the Participant’s interest in the Restricted Shares or Shares subject to RSUs become vested and non-forfeitable. Except as set forth in the Award Agreement or as the Committee otherwise determines, the Participant shall forfeit his or her non-vested Restricted Shares and RSUs upon terminating his or her Continuous Service for any reason; provided that if the Participant purchases Restricted Shares and forfeits them for any reason, the Company shall return to the Participant the lower of (i) the Fair Market Value of the Shares on the date of forfeiture or (ii) their original purchase price, to the extent set forth in an Award Agreement or required by Applicable Laws.

(c) Certificates for Restricted Shares. Unless otherwise provided in an Award Agreement, the Company shall hold certificates or, if not certificated, other indicia representing Restricted Shares until the restrictions lapse, and the Participant shall provide the Company with appropriate stock powers endorsed in blank. The Participant’s failure to provide such stock powers within ten days after a written request from the Company shall entitle the Committee to unilaterally declare all or some of the Participant’s Restricted Shares forfeited.

(d) Section 83(b) Elections. A Participant may make an election under Code Section 83(b) (the “Section 83(b) Election”) with respect to Restricted Shares. A Participant who has received RSUs may, within ten days after receiving the RSU Award, provide the Committee with a written notice of his or her desire to make a Section 83(b) Election with respect to the Shares subject to such RSUs. The Committee may in its discretion convert the Participant’s RSUs into Restricted Shares, on a one-for-one basis, in full satisfaction of the Participant’s RSU Award. The Participant may then make a Section 83(b) Election with respect to those Restricted Shares; provided that the Participant’s Section 83(b) Election normally will be invalid if not filed with the Company and the appropriate U.S. tax authorities within 30 days after the date of the transfer of property within the meaning of Code Section 83(b)(2).

 

8


(e) Issuance of Shares upon Vesting. As soon as practicable after a Participant’s Restricted Shares vest (or the right to receive Shares underlying RSUs vests), the Company shall deliver to the Participant, free from vesting restrictions, one Share for each surrendered and vested Restricted Share (or deliver one Share free of the vesting restriction for each vested RSU), unless an Award Agreement provides otherwise and subject to Section 10 regarding Withholding Taxes. No fractional Shares shall be distributed, and cash shall be paid in lieu thereof.

8. Reserved.

9. Right of First Refusal; Right of Repurchase

(a) Right of Repurchase. Subject to the “Repurchase Limitation” in Section 9(c), the Award Agreement for an Option, SAR, Restricted Shares, RSU, or Unrestricted Shares may include a provision whereby the Company or its designee may elect to repurchase all or any part of the vested Shares acquired by the Participant pursuant to the exercise of the Option, SAR, Restricted Shares, RSU, or Unrestricted Shares.

(b) Right of First Refusal. The Award Agreement for an Option, SAR, Restricted Shares, RSU, or Unrestricted Shares, may include a provision whereby the Company or its designee may elect to exercise a right of first refusal following receipt of notice from the Participant of the intent to transfer all or any part of the Shares received upon the exercise of the Award. Such right of first refusal shall be subject to the “Repurchase Limitation” in Section 9(c). The Shares also may be subject to whatever right of first refusal and other limitations that may exist in the Bylaws of the Company.

(c) Repurchase Limitation. The repurchase price for vested Shares shall be the Fair Market Value of the Shares on the date of repurchase, unless the Participant’s service relationship with the Company or its Affiliates was terminated by the Company for Cause (or what would have been Cause if the Company had known all of the relevant facts), in which case the repurchase price shall be the lower of (i) the Fair Market Value of the Shares on the date of repurchase or (ii) their original purchase price. The repurchase price for unvested Shares shall be the lower of (i) the Fair Market Value of the Shares on the date of repurchase or (ii) their original purchase price. However, the Company shall not exercise its repurchase right until at least six months (or such longer or shorter period of time necessary to avoid classification of the Award as a liability for financial accounting purposes) have elapsed following delivery of the Shares subject to the Award, unless otherwise specifically provided by the Committee.

10. Taxes; Withholding; Code §409A.

(a) General Rule. Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan or an Award Agreement to the contrary, Participants are solely responsible and liable for the satisfaction of all taxes and penalties that may arise in connection with Awards, and neither the Company, nor any Affiliate, nor any of their employees, directors, or agents shall have any duty or obligation to mitigate, minimize, indemnify, or to hold any Participant harmless from any or all of such tax consequences.

 

9


(b) Withholding. The Company’s obligation to deliver Shares (or to pay cash) to Participants pursuant to Awards is at all times subject to their prior or coincident satisfaction of all Withholding Taxes. Except as otherwise provided under the Plan or in an Award Agreement, no later than the date as of which an amount first becomes includible in a Participant’s taxable income for U.S. federal, state, local or non-U.S. income or social insurance tax purposes with respect to an Award, the Participant shall pay to the Company (or to the Affiliate employing the Participant), or make arrangements satisfactory to the Company (or such Affiliate) for the payment of, any such Withholding Taxes (which normally will not apply to non-Employees). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company and its Affiliates may, in each of their sole discretion, withhold a sufficient number of Shares that are otherwise issuable to the Participant pursuant to the Award (and/or cash that is otherwise payable to the Participant) in order to satisfy up to the maximum amount of Withholding Taxes. For purposes of the foregoing, the Committee may establish such procedures as it deems necessary or appropriate.

(c) U.S. Code Sections 409A and 4999. To the extent that the Committee determines that any Award granted under this Plan is subject to Code Section 409A, the Award Agreement evidencing such Award shall incorporate the terms and conditions required by Code Section 409A. To the extent applicable, this Plan and Award Agreements shall be interpreted in accordance with Code Section 409A and Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date. Notwithstanding the foregoing or any provision of the Plan or an Award Agreement to the contrary, Participants shall be solely responsible for the satisfaction of any taxes that may arise pursuant to Awards (including taxes arising under Code Sections 409A (regarding deferred compensation) or 4999 (regarding golden parachute excise taxes)). Nevertheless, the Committee may adopt such amendments to the Plan and the applicable Award Agreement or adopt other policies and procedures (including amendments, policies and procedures or cancelling all or some Awards with retroactive effect), or take any other actions, that the Committee determines are necessary or appropriate (i) to exempt an Award from Code Section 409A and/or preserve the intended tax treatment of the benefits provided with respect to the Award, or (ii) to comply with the requirements of Code Section 409A and related Department of Treasury guidance and thereby avoid the application of any penalty taxes under such Section.

(d) Unfunded Tax Status. This Plan is intended to be an “unfunded” plan for incentive compensation. With respect to any payments not yet made to a Person pursuant to an Award, nothing in this Plan or any Award Agreement shall give the Person any rights greater than those of a general creditor of the Company or any Affiliate, and a Participant’s rights under this Plan at all times constitute an unsecured claim against the Company’s general assets for the collection of benefits as they come due. Neither the Participant nor his or her duly-authorized transferee or Beneficiaries shall have any claim against or rights in any specific assets, Shares, or other funds of the Company.

11. Non-Transferability of Awards.

(a) General. Except as set forth in this Section, or as otherwise approved by the Committee and subject to restrictions on transfer contained in the Bylaws of the Company, Awards may not be sold, pledged, assigned, hypothecated, transferred or disposed of in any manner other than by will or by the laws of descent or distribution. The designation of a death Beneficiary by a Participant will not constitute a transfer. An Award may be exercised, during the lifetime of the holder of an Award, only by such holder, by the duly-authorized legal representative of a holder who is Disabled, or by a transferee permitted by this Section.

 

10


(b) Limited Transferability Rights. Subject to restrictions on transfer contained in the Bylaws of the Company, the Committee may in its discretion provide in an Award Agreement that an Award in the form of a Non-ISO, Share-settled SAR, or Restricted Shares may be transferred, on such terms and conditions as the Committee deems appropriate, either (i) by instrument to the Participant’s Immediate Family, (ii) by instrument to an inter vivos or testamentary trust (or other entity) in which the Award is to be passed to the Participant’s designated Beneficiaries, (iii) even in the case of an ISO, pursuant to a domestic relations order (provided, however, that if an Option is an ISO, such Option may be deemed a non-ISO as a result of such transfer), or (iv) by gift to charitable institutions. Any transferee of the Participant’s rights shall succeed and be subject to all of the terms of the applicable Award Agreement and this Plan.

(c) Death. In the event of the death of a Participant, any outstanding vested Awards issued to the Participant shall automatically be transferred to the Participant’s Beneficiary (or, if no Beneficiary is designated or surviving, to the person or persons to whom the Participant’s rights under the Award pass by will or the laws of descent and distribution in the state in which the Participant was domiciled at the time of his or her death).

12. Change in Capital Structure; Change in Control; Etc.

(a) Changes in Capitalization. The Committee shall equitably adjust the number of Shares covered by each outstanding Award, and the number of Shares that have been authorized for issuance under this Plan but as to which no Awards have yet been granted or that have been returned to this Plan upon cancellation, forfeiture, or expiration of an Award, as well as the exercise or other price per Share covered by each such outstanding Award, to reflect any increase or decrease in the number of issued Shares resulting from a stock-split, reverse stock-split, stock dividend, combination, recapitalization or reclassification of the Shares, merger, consolidation, change in organization form, or any other increase or decrease in the number of issued Shares effected without receipt or payment of consideration by the Company. In the event of any such transaction or event, the Committee may provide in substitution for any or all outstanding Awards, or as an alternative to an adjustment, such alternative consideration (including cash or securities of any surviving entity) as it may in good faith determine to be equitable under the circumstances and may, if substitute consideration is provided, require in connection therewith the surrender of all Awards so substituted. In any case, such substitution of cash or securities shall not require the consent of any Participant. Except as expressly provided herein, or in an Award Agreement, if the Company issues for consideration shares of stock of any class or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, the issuance shall not affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be required to be made with respect to, the number or price of Shares subject to any Award.

(b) Dissolution or Liquidation. Except as otherwise provided in an Award Agreement, in the event of the dissolution or liquidation of the Company other than as part of a Change in Control, each Award will terminate immediately prior to the consummation of such dissolution or liquidation, subject to the ability of the Committee to exercise any discretion authorized in the case of a Change in Control.

(c) Change in Control. In the event of a Change in Control but subject to the terms of any Award Agreements or employment-related agreements between the Company or any Affiliates and

 

11


any Participant, each outstanding Award may be assumed or a substantially equivalent award may be substituted by the surviving or successor company or a parent or subsidiary of such successor company (in each case, the “Successor Company”) upon consummation of the transaction. Notwithstanding the foregoing, instead of having outstanding Awards be assumed or substituted with equivalent awards by the Successor Company, the Committee may in its sole and absolute discretion and authority, without obtaining the approval or consent of the Company’s stockholders or any Participant, take one or more of the following actions (with respect to any or all of the Awards, and with discretion to differentiate between individual Participants and Awards for any reason):

(i) accelerate the vesting of Awards so that some or all Awards shall vest (and, to the extent applicable, become exercisable) as to (some or all of) the Shares that otherwise would have been unvested and/or provide that repurchase rights of the Company, if any, with respect to Shares issued pursuant to an Award shall lapse as to the Shares subject to such repurchase right;

(ii) arrange or otherwise provide for the payment of cash or other consideration to Participants in exchange for the satisfaction and cancellation of all or some outstanding Awards (based on the Fair Market Value, on the date of the Change in Control, of the Award being cancelled, based on any reasonable valuation method selected by the Committee); provided that the Committee shall have full discretion to unilaterally cancel (I) any Options or SARs whose exercise price is equal to or greater than the Fair Market Value of the Shares, as of the date of the Change in Control, with such cancellation being without the payment of any consideration whatsoever to those Participants whose Options and SARs are being cancelled and (II) either all Awards or only select Awards (such as only those that have vested on or before the Change in Control);

(iii) terminate all or some Awards upon the consummation of the transaction; provided that the Committee may provide for vesting of such Awards in full as of a date immediately prior to consummation of the Change in Control. To the extent that an Award is not exercised, settled, or cancelled prior to consummation of a transaction in which the Award is not being assumed or substituted, such Award shall terminate upon such consummation;

(iv) terminate all or some unvested Awards without compensation therefor; or

(v) make such other modifications, adjustments or amendments to outstanding Awards or this Plan as the Committee deems necessary or appropriate.

(d) Non-uniformity. Any determination made by the Committee hereunder may be made on an Award-by-Award basis.

13. Administration of this Plan. The Committee shall administer this Plan in accordance with its terms, provided that the Board may act in lieu of the Committee on any matter. The Committee shall hold meetings at such times and places as it may determine and may prescribe, amend, and rescind such rules and regulations, and procedures for the conduct of its business as it deems advisable. In the absence of a Committee, the Board shall function as the Committee for all purposes of this Plan.

 

12


(a) Committee. Subject to Applicable Law and the restrictions set forth in this Plan, the Committee may delegate administrative functions to individuals who are Directors or Employees, and may authorize one or more executive officers to make Awards to Eligible Persons other than themselves. The Committee shall have the power to delegate to a subcommittee of the Board any of the administrative powers the Committee is authorized to exercise, subject to such resolutions, consistent with this Plan, as the Board may adopt from time to time.

(b) Powers of the Committee. Subject to the provisions of this Plan, the Committee shall have the authority, in its sole discretion:

(i) to grant Awards and to determine Eligible Persons to whom Awards shall be granted from time to time, and the number of Shares, units, or dollars to be covered by each Award;

(ii) to determine, from time to time, the Fair Market Value of Shares;

(iii) to determine, and to set forth in Award Agreements, the terms and conditions of all Awards, including what type or combination of types of Awards shall be granted; any applicable exercise or purchase price; the installments and conditions under which an Award shall become vested (which may be based on performance), terminated, expired, cancelled, or replaced; the circumstances for vesting acceleration or waiver of forfeiture restrictions; and other restrictions and limitations;

(iv) to approve the forms of Award Agreements and all other documents, notices and certificates in connection therewith, which need not be identical either as to type of Award or among Participants;

(v) to construe and interpret the terms of this Plan and any Award Agreement, to determine the meaning of their terms, to correct any defect, omission or inconsistency in this Plan or any Award Agreement, in a manner and to the extent it shall deem necessary or expedient to make this Plan or an Award fully effective, and to prescribe, amend, and rescind rules and procedures relating to this Plan and its administration;

(vi) to the extent consistent with the purposes of this Plan and without amending this Plan, to modify, to cancel, or to waive the Company’s rights with respect to any Awards, to adjust or to modify Award Agreements for changes in Applicable Law, and to recognize differences in foreign law, tax policies, or customs;

(vii) to require, as a condition precedent to the grant, vesting, exercise, settlement, and/or issuance of Shares pursuant to any Award, that a Participant agree to execute a general release of claims (in any form that the Committee may require, in its sole discretion, which form may include any other provisions, e.g. confidentiality and restrictions on competition, that are found in general claims release agreements that the Company utilizes or expects to utilize);

(viii) in the event that the Company establishes, for itself or using the services of a third party, an automated system for the documentation, granting, settlement, or exercise of

 

13


Awards, such as a system using an Internet website or interactive voice response, to implement paperless documentation, granting, settlement, or exercise of Awards by a Participant through the use of such an automated system; and

(ix) to make all determinations and to take all other actions that the Committee may consider necessary or desirable to administer the Plan or to effectuate its purposes.

(c) Local Law Adjustments and Sub-plans.

 

  (i)

To facilitate the making of any grant of an Award under this Plan, the Committee may adopt rules and provide for such special terms for Awards to Participants who are located within the United States, foreign nationals, or employed by the Company or any Affiliate outside of the United States of America as the Committee may consider necessary or appropriate to accommodate differences in local law, tax policy or custom. Without limiting the foregoing, the Company is specifically authorized to adopt rules and procedures regarding the conversion of local currency, taxes, withholding procedures and handling of stock certificates which vary with the customs and requirements of particular countries. The Company may adopt procedures or sub-plans and establish escrow accounts and trusts, and settle Awards in cash in lieu of shares, as may be appropriate, required or applicable to particular locations and countries.

 

  (i)

Action by Committee (e.g., to permit participation in this Plan by Eligible Persons who are non-United States nationals or are primarily employed or providing services outside the United States). The Committee may modify the terms of any Award under this Plan made to or held by a Participant who is then a resident, or is primarily employed or providing services, outside of the United States, in any manner deemed by the Committee to be necessary or appropriate in order that such Award shall conform to laws, regulations, and customs of the country in which the Participant is then a resident or primarily employed or providing services, or so that the value and other benefits of the Award to the Participant, as affected by non-United States tax laws and other restrictions applicable as a result of the Participant’s residence, employment, or providing services abroad, shall be comparable to the value of such Award to a Participant who is a resident, or is primarily employed or providing services, in the United States. An Award may be modified under this subsection in a manner that is inconsistent with the express terms of this Plan, so long as such modifications will not contravene any Applicable Law or regulation or result in actual liability under Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act for the Participant whose Award is modified. Each member of the Committee is entitled to, in good faith, rely or act upon any report or other information furnished to that member by an officer or other Employee of the Company or any Affiliate, the Company’s independent certified public accountants, or any executive compensation Consultant or other professional retained by the Company to assist in the administration of this Plan, or by any Participant or Beneficiary.

 

14


(d) Deference to Committee Determinations. The Committee shall have the discretion to interpret or construe ambiguous, unclear, or implied (but omitted) terms as it deems to be appropriate in its sole discretion, and to make any findings of fact needed in the administration of this Plan or Award Agreements. The Committee’s prior exercise of its discretionary authority shall not obligate it to exercise its authority in a like fashion thereafter. The Committee’s interpretation and construction of any provision of this Plan, or of any Award or Award Agreement, and all determinations the Committee makes pursuant to this Plan shall be final, binding, and conclusive (subject only to the Committee’s inherent Authority to change its determinations). The validity of any such interpretation, construction, decision or finding of fact shall not be given de novo review if challenged in court, by arbitration, or in any other forum, and shall be upheld unless clearly made in bad faith or materially affected by fraud.

(e) Claims Limitations Period. Any Participant who believes he or she is being denied any benefit or right under this Plan or under any Award may file a written claim with the Committee. Any claim must be delivered to the Committee within 45 days of the specific event giving rise to the claim. Untimely claims will not be processed and shall be deemed denied. The Committee, or its designee, will notify the Participant of its decision in writing as soon as administratively practicable. Claims shall be deemed denied if the Committee does not respond in writing within 120 days of the date the written claim is delivered to the Committee. The Committee’s decision is final and conclusive and binding on all persons. No lawsuit relating to this Plan may be filed before a written claim is filed with the Committee and is denied or deemed denied, and any lawsuit must be filed within one year of such denial or deemed denial or be forever barred.

(f) No Liability; Indemnification. Neither the Board nor any Committee member, nor any Person acting at the direction of the Board or the Committee, shall be liable for any act, omission, interpretation, construction, or determination made in good faith with respect to this Plan, any Award, or any Award Agreement. The Company shall pay or reimburse any Director, Employee, or Consultant who in good faith takes action on behalf of this Plan, for all expenses incurred with respect to this Plan, and to the full extent allowable under Applicable Law shall indemnify each and every one of them for any claims, liabilities, and costs (including reasonable attorney’s fees) arising out of their good faith performance of duties on behalf of this Plan. The Company and its Affiliates may, but shall not be required to, obtain liability insurance for this purpose.

(g) Expenses. The Company shall bear the expenses of administering this Plan.

14. Modification of Awards and Substitution of Options. Within the limitations of this Plan, the Committee may modify an Award to accelerate the rate at which an Option or SAR may be exercised, to accelerate the vesting of any Award, to extend or renew outstanding Awards, to accept the cancellation of outstanding Awards to the extent not previously exercised, or to make any change that this Plan would permit for a new Award. However, except in connection with a Change in Control or as approved by the Company’s stockholders for any period during which it is subject to the reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, the Committee may not cancel an outstanding Option or SAR whose exercise price is greater than Fair Market Value at the time of cancellation for the purpose of reissuing the Option or SAR to the Participant at a lower exercise price, or granting a replacement award of a different type, or otherwise allowing for a “repricing” within the meaning of applicable federal securities laws or other applicable governance standards. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no modification of an outstanding Award may materially and adversely affect a Participant’s rights thereunder unless either (i) the Participant provides written consent to the

 

15


modification, (ii) before a Change in Control, the Committee determines in good faith that the modification is not materially adverse to the Participant, or (iii) such modification is permitted by another Section of this Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, subject to the limitations of Applicable Law, if any, and without the affected Participant’s consent, the Board may amend the terms of any one or more Awards if necessary to maintain the qualified status of the Award as an Incentive Stock Option or to bring the Award into compliance with Section 409A of the Code.

15. Plan Amendment and Termination. The Board may amend or terminate this Plan as it shall deem advisable; provided that no change shall be made that increases the total number of Shares reserved for issuance pursuant to Awards (except pursuant to Section 12 above) unless such change is authorized by the stockholders of the Company to the extent required by Applicable Law. A termination or amendment of this Plan shall not materially and adversely affect a Participant’s vested rights under an Award previously granted to him or her, unless the Participant consents in writing to such termination or amendment. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may amend this Plan to comply with changes in tax or securities laws or regulations, or in the interpretation thereof. Furthermore, neither the Company nor the Committee shall, without stockholder approval, amend this Plan either (a) to materially expand the class of Eligible Persons under this Plan, (b) to materially increase the benefits accruing to Participants under this Plan, (c) to materially extend the term of this Plan, (d) to expand the types of Awards available for issuance under this Plan, (e) to allow for a “repricing” within the meaning of either the federal securities laws applicable to proxy statement disclosures or other applicable governance standards, or (f) to cancel an outstanding Option whose exercise price is greater than Fair Market Value at the time of cancellation for the purpose of reissuing the Option to the Participant at a lower exercise price or granting a replacement award of a different type.

16. Term of Plan. If not sooner terminated by the Board, this Plan shall terminate at the close of business on the date ten years after the earlier of Board approval of this Plan and its Effective Date. No Awards shall be made under this Plan after its termination.

17. Governing Law. The terms of this Plan shall be governed by the laws of the State of Delaware, within the United States of America, without regard to the State’s conflict of laws rules.

18. Laws and Regulations.

(a) General Rules. This Plan, the granting of Awards, the exercise of Options and SARs, and the obligations of the Company hereunder (including those to pay cash or to deliver, sell or accept the surrender of any of its Shares or other securities) shall be subject to all Applicable Law. In the event that any Shares are not registered under any Applicable Law prior to the required delivery of them pursuant to Awards, the Company may require, as a condition to their issuance or delivery, that the persons to whom the Shares are to be issued or delivered make any written representations and warranties (such as that such Shares are being acquired by the Participant for investment for the Participant’s own account and not with a view to, for resale in connection with, or with an intent of participating directly or indirectly in, any distribution of such Shares) that the Committee may reasonably require, and the Committee may in its sole discretion include a legend to such effect on the certificates representing any Shares issued or delivered pursuant to this Plan.

(b) Blackout Periods. Notwithstanding any contrary terms within this Plan or any Award Agreement, the Committee shall have the absolute discretion to impose a “blackout” period on the

 

16


exercise of any Option or SAR, as well as the settlement of any Award, with respect to any or all Participants (including those whose Continuous Service has ended) to the extent the Committee determines that doing so is desirable or required to comply with applicable securities laws.

(c) Data Privacy. As a condition of receipt of any Award, each Participant explicitly and unambiguously consents to the collection, use, and transfer, in electronic or other form, of personal data as described in this Section by and among, as applicable, the Company and its Affiliates for the exclusive purpose of implementing, administering, and managing this Plan and Awards and the Participant’s participation in this Plan. In furtherance of such implementation, administration, and management, the Company and its Affiliates may hold certain personal information about a Participant with respect to one or more Awards under the Plan, including, but not limited to, the Participant’s name, home address, telephone number, date of birth, social security or insurance number or other identification number, salary, nationality, job title(s), information regarding any securities of the Company or any of its Affiliates, and details of all Awards (the “Data”). In addition to transferring the Data amongst themselves as necessary for the purpose of implementation, administration, and management of this Plan and Awards and the Participant’s participation in this Plan, the Company and its Affiliates each may transfer the Data to any third parties assisting the Company in the implementation, administration, and management of this Plan and Awards and the Participant’s participation in this Plan. Recipients of the Data may be located in the Participant’s country or elsewhere, and the Participant’s country and any given recipient’s country may have different data privacy laws and protections. By accepting an Award, each Participant authorizes such recipients to receive, possess, use, retain, and transfer the Data, in electronic or other form, for the purposes of assisting the Company in the implementation, administration, and management of this Plan and Awards and the Participant’s participation in this Plan, including any requisite transfer of such Data as may be required to a broker or other third party with whom the Company or the Participant may elect to deposit any Shares. A Participant may, at any time, view the Data held by the Company with respect to such Participant, request additional information about the storage and processing of the Data with respect to such Participant, recommend any necessary corrections to the Data with respect to the Participant, or refuse or withdraw the consents herein in writing, in any case without cost, by contacting such Participant’s local human resources representative. The Company may cancel the Participant’s eligibility to participate in this Plan, and in the Committee’s discretion, the Participant may forfeit any outstanding Awards if the Participant refuses or withdraws the consents described herein. For more information on the consequences of refusal to consent or withdrawal of consent, Participants may contact their local human resources representative.

(e) Severability; Blue Pencil. In the event that any provision(s) of this Plan shall be or become invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not be affected thereby. If in the opinion of any court of competent jurisdiction such covenants are not reasonable in any respect, such court shall have the right, power, and authority to excise or modify such provision or provisions of these covenants as to the court shall appear not reasonable and to enforce the remainder of these covenants as so amended.

19. No Stockholder Rights. Neither a Participant nor any transferee or Beneficiary of a Participant shall have any rights as a stockholder of the Company with respect to any Shares underlying any Award until the date of issuance of a share certificate to such Participant, transferee, or Beneficiary for such Shares in accordance with the Company’s governing instruments and Applicable Law. Prior to the issuance of Shares or Restricted Shares pursuant to an Award, a Participant shall not have the right to vote or to receive dividends or any other rights as a

 

17


stockholder with respect to the Shares underlying the Award (unless otherwise provided in the Award Agreement for Restricted Shares), notwithstanding its exercise in the case of Options and SARs. No adjustment will be made for a dividend or other right that is determined based on a record date prior to the date the stock certificate is issued, except as otherwise specifically provided for in this Plan or an Award Agreement.

20. No Obligation to Notify. The Company shall have no duty or obligation to any Participant to advise such holder as to the time or manner of exercising an Award. Furthermore, the Company shall have no duty or obligation to warn or otherwise advise such holder of a pending termination or expiration of an Award or a possible period in which the Award may not be exercised.

21. Miscellaneous.

(a) Use of Proceeds from Sales of Common Stock. Proceeds from the sale of Shares pursuant to Awards shall constitute general funds of the Company.

(b) Corporate Action Constituting Grant of Awards. Unless otherwise determined by the Board, corporate action constituting a grant by the Company of an Award to any Participant shall be deemed completed as of the date of such corporate action, regardless of when the instrument, certificate, or letter evidencing the Award is communicated to, or actually received or accepted by, the Participant.

(c) Share Replacement. Unless prohibited by Applicable Law, the Company may substitute any consideration in lieu of providing Shares to a Participant on the exercise of an Option or SAR, or the vesting of an RSU to the extent such consideration is equal to the Fair Market Value of the Shares the Participant otherwise would receive.

22. Pre-IPO Provisions. Subject to any contrary terms set forth in any Award Agreement, for any period preceding the date of an initial public offering, this Section shall be applicable to any Shares subject to or issued pursuant to Awards. The provisions set forth below shall become null and void upon the occurrence of an initial public offering.

(a) Repurchase Rights. At any time before an initial public offering, the Company may repurchase any Shares acquired pursuant to an Award for their then Fair Market Value as determined by the Committee in good faith; provided that if a Participant’s Continuous Service is terminated by the Company for Cause, the repurchase price shall be the lower of the purchase price the Participant paid for the Shares, if any, or the Shares’ Fair Market Value. The Company shall not exercise its repurchase right until the Shares have been held by the Participant for at least six (6) months, unless (i) the Company’s independent auditors have advised the Committee that an earlier repurchase will not trigger adverse accounting consequences or (ii) the Committee determines that any adverse accounting consequences are acceptable to the Company. The Company shall pay the repurchase price to the Participant in a lump sum or in equal monthly installments for up to 60 months, as determined by the Company in its sole discretion.

(b) Market Stand-Off. In connection with any underwritten public offering by the Company of its equity securities pursuant to an effective registration statement filed under the federal securities laws, including the Company’s initial public offering, Participants shall not directly

 

18


or indirectly sell, make any short sale of, loan, hypothecate, pledge, offer, grant or sell any option or other contract for the purchase of, purchase any option or other contract for the sale of, or otherwise dispose or transfer, or agree to engage in any of the foregoing transactions with respect to, any Shares acquired pursuant to Awards without the prior written consent of the Company or its underwriters. Such restriction (the “Market Stand-Off”) shall be in effect for such period of time, not exceeding 180 days, following the date of the final prospectus for the offering as may be requested by the Company or such underwriters. The Market Stand-Off shall in any event terminate two years after the date of the Company’s initial public offering. In the event of the declaration of a stock dividend, a spin-off, a stock split, an adjustment in conversion ratio, a recapitalization or a similar transaction affecting the Company’s outstanding securities without receipt of consideration, any new, substituted or additional securities which are by reason of such transaction distributed with respect to any Shares subject to the Market Stand-Off, or into which such Shares thereby become convertible, shall immediately be subject to such Market Stand-Off. In order to enforce the Market Stand-Off, the Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to the Shares acquired pursuant to Awards until the end of the applicable stand-off period. The Company and its underwriters shall be beneficiaries of the agreement in this Section. Participants who are not Directors or officers shall be subject to this Section only if Directors and officers are subject to it.

(c) Waiver of Statutory Information Rights. By executing an Award Agreement, each Participant unconditionally and irrevocably waives any and all rights that it would, but for the waiver made herein, have to inspect for any proper purpose, and to make copies and extracts from, the Company’s stock ledger, a list of its stockholders, and its other books and records, and the books and records of subsidiaries of the Company, if any, under the circumstances and in the manner provided in Section 220 of the General Corporation Law of Delaware (any and all such rights, and any and all such other rights of the Participant as may be provided for in Section 220, the “Inspection Rights”), whether such Inspection Rights would be exercised or pursued directly or indirectly pursuant to Section 220 or otherwise, and covenants and agrees never to directly or indirectly commence, voluntarily aid in any way, prosecute, assign, transfer, or cause to be commenced any claim, action, cause of action, or other proceeding to pursue or exercise the Inspection Rights. The foregoing waiver shall not affect any rights of a director, in his or her capacity as such, under Section 220. The foregoing waiver shall not apply to any contractual inspection rights of the Participant under any other written agreement between the Participant and the Company.

(d) California Law Provisions. In order to conform with Applicable Laws for Awards to California residents, to the extent required by Section 260.140.8 of Title 10 of the California Code of Regulations and to the extent compliance with such section is required for the Shares subject to the Award to be exempt from registration in California, any repurchase right granted prior to the date on which the Shares become publicly-traded to a person who is not an officer, Director or Consultant shall be upon the following terms:

 

  (i)

if the repurchase option gives the Company the right to repurchase the Shares upon termination of Continuous Service at not less than the Fair Market Value of the Shares to be purchased on the date of termination of Continuous Service, then

 

  (1)

the right to repurchase shall be exercised for cash or cancellation of purchase money indebtedness for the Shares within six (6) months of termination of Continuous Service (or in the case of Shares issued upon exercise of Options or SARs after such date of termination, within six (6) months after the date of the exercise), and

 

19


  (2)

the right terminates when the Shares become publicly traded; or

 

  (ii)

if the repurchase option gives the Company the right to repurchase the Shares upon termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service at the original purchase price for such Shares, then

 

  (1)

the right to repurchase at the original purchase price shall lapse at the rate of at least twenty percent (20%) of the Shares per year over five (5) years from the Date of Grant (without respect to the date the Option or SAR was exercised or became exercisable), and

 

  (2)

the right to repurchase must be exercised for cash or cancellation of purchase money indebtedness for the Shares within six (6) months of termination of Continuous Service (or, in the case of Shares issued upon exercise of Options or SARs, after such date of termination, within six (6) months after the date of the exercise) or such longer period as may be agreed to by the Company and the Participant.

Furthermore, at no time while there is any Option outstanding and held by a Participant who was a resident of the State of California on the date of grant of such Option, shall the total number of Shares issuable upon exercise of all outstanding stock options and the total number of Shares provided for under any stock bonus or similar plan or agreement of the Company (in each case whether the grants occur as Awards or under another plan of the Company or any Affiliate) exceed the applicable percentage as calculated in accordance with the conditions and exclusions of Section 260.140.45 of the California Code of Regulations, based on the Shares that are outstanding at the time the calculation is made.

 

23.

DEFINITIONS

Affiliate” means, with respect to any Person, any other Person that directly or indirectly controls or is controlled by or under common control with such Person. For the purposes of this definition, “control,” when used with respect to any Person, means the possession, direct or indirect, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of such Person or the power to elect directors, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise; and the terms “affiliated,” “controlling” and “controlled” have meanings correlative to the foregoing.

Applicable Law” means the legal requirements as shall be in place from time to time under any statute, law, ordinance, regulation, rule, code, executive order, injunction, judgment, decree or order of any governmental authority, whether of the United States, any other country, and any provincial, state, or local subdivision, that relate to the administration of equity plans or equity awards, as well as any applicable stock exchange or automated quotation system rules or regulations.

 

20


Award” means any award made, in writing or by an electronic medium, pursuant to this Plan, including awards made in the form of an Option, a SAR, a Restricted Share, a RSU, or an Unrestricted Share, or any combination thereof, whether alternative or cumulative.

Award Agreement” means any written document setting forth the terms of an Award that has been authorized by the Committee. The Committee shall determine the form or forms of documents to be used, and may change them from time to time for any reason.

Beneficiary” means the person or entity designated by the Participant, in a form approved by the Company, to exercise the Participant’s rights with respect to an Award or receive payment or settlement under an Award after the Participant’s death.

Board” means the Board of Directors of the Company.

Cause means that the Company determines in its reasonable discretion that any of the following situations gave rise to a Participant’s termination from Continuous Service: (i) the Participant committed, was convicted, or pled no contest or any similar plea to a misdemeanor involving acts of dishonesty or breach of fiduciary duty or any felony; (ii) the Participant willfully or negligently failed to substantially perform his or her duties and responsibilities to the Company or deliberately violated a material Company policy; (iii) the Participant committed any act of fraud, embezzlement, dishonesty, or other willful misconduct; (iv) the Participant breached his or her Employee Proprietary Information and Inventions Agreement or similar agreement with the Company; or (v) the Participant breached of any of his or her material obligations under any written agreement with the Company. The foregoing definition does not in any way limit the Company’s ability to terminate a Participant’s employment or other service relationship at any time, and the term “Company” will be interpreted herein to include any Affiliate or successor thereto, if appropriate. Furthermore, a Participant’s Continuous Service shall be deemed to have terminated for Cause within the meaning hereof if, at any time (whether before, on, or after termination of the Participant’s Continuous Service), facts or circumstances are discovered that would have justified a termination for Cause.

Change in Control” means, unless another definition is set forth in an Award Agreement, the first of the following to occur after the Effective Date:

(i) Acquisition of Controlling Interest. Any Person (other than Persons who are Employees or service providers at any time more than one year before a transaction) becomes the Beneficial Owner (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 50% or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities; provided that the foregoing shall exclude any bona fide sale of securities of the Company by the Company to one or more third parties for purposes of raising capital. In applying the preceding sentence, an agreement to vote securities shall be disregarded unless its ultimate purpose is to cause what would otherwise be a Change in Control, as reasonably determined by the Board.

(ii) Merger. The Company consummates a merger, or consolidation of the Company with any other corporation unless: (a) the voting securities of the Company outstanding immediately before the merger or consolidation would continue to represent

 

21


(either by remaining outstanding or by being converted into voting securities of the surviving entity) at least 50% of the combined voting power of the voting securities of the Company or such surviving entity outstanding immediately after such merger or consolidation; and (b) no Person (other than Persons who are Employees or service providers at any time more than one year before the transaction) becomes the Beneficial Owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 50% or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities.

(iii) Sale of Assets. The stockholders of the Company approve an agreement for the sale or disposition by the Company of all, or substantially all, of the Company’s assets.

(iv) Liquidation or Dissolution. The stockholders of the Company approve a plan or proposal for liquidation or dissolution of the Company.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, a “Change in Control” shall not be deemed to have occurred by virtue of the consummation of any transaction or series of integrated transactions immediately following which the record holders of the common stock of the Company immediately prior to such transaction or series of transactions continue to have substantially the same proportionate ownership in an entity which owns all or substantially all of the assets of the Company immediately following such transaction or series of transactions.

Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time.

Committee” means the Compensation Committee of the Board or its successor; provided that the term “Committee” means (i) the Board when acting at any time in lieu of the Committee, (ii) with respect to any decision involving an Award intended to satisfy the requirements of Code Section 162(m), a committee consisting of two or more Directors of the Company who are “outside directors” within the meaning of Code Section 162(m), and (iii) with respect to any decision relating to a Reporting Person, a committee consisting solely of two or more Directors who are disinterested within the meaning of Rule 16b-3. The mere fact that a Committee member shall fail to qualify as an “outside director” or as a “disinterested director” within the meaning of Code Section 162(m) and Rule 16b-3, respectively, shall not invalidate any Award made by the Committee which Award is otherwise validly made under this Plan.

Common Stock” means common stock, $0.001 par value per share, of the Company. In the event of a change in the capital structure of the Company affecting the common stock (as provided in Section 12), the Shares resulting from such a change in the common stock shall be deemed to be Common Stock within the meaning of this Plan.

Company” means Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation; provided that in the event the Company reincorporates to another jurisdiction, all references to the term “Company” shall refer to the Company in such new jurisdiction.

Consultant” means any natural person (other than an Employee or Director), including an advisor, who provides bona fide services to the Company, its parents, its majority-owned subsidiaries or majority-owned subsidiaries of the Company’s parent, if such services are not in connection with the offer or sale of securities in a capital-raising transaction, and do not directly or indirectly promote or maintain a market for the Company’s securities.

 

22


Continuous Service” means a Participant’s period of service in the absence of any interruption or termination (as defined in such individual’s employment or consulting agreement with the Company, as the case may be), as an Employee, Director, or Consultant. The following sentences apply notwithstanding anything to the contrary in any Participant’s employment or consulting agreement with the Company, as the case may be. Continuous Service shall not be considered interrupted in the case of: (i) sick leave; (ii) military leave; (iii) any other leave of absence approved by the Committee, provided that such leave is for a period of not more than 90 days, unless reemployment upon the expiration of such leave is guaranteed by contract or statute, or unless provided otherwise pursuant to Company policy adopted from time to time; (iv) changes in status from Director to advisory director or emeritus status; or (iv) transfers between locations of the Company or between the Company and its Affiliates. Changes in status between service as an Employee, Director, and a Consultant will not constitute an interruption of Continuous Service if the individual continues to perform bona fide services for the Company. The Committee shall have the discretion to determine whether and to what extent the vesting of any Awards shall be tolled during any paid or unpaid leave of absence; provided, however, that in the absence of such determination, vesting for all Awards shall be tolled during any such unpaid leave (but not for a paid leave). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in the Plan, an Investor Director Provider shall be deemed to have Continuous Service for so long as the Investor Director Provider makes available for service as a member of the Board at least one individual who provides services to, owns equity interests in, or is otherwise employed by, such investor or any of its Affiliates.

Data” has the meaning set forth in Section 18(c) of this Plan.

Director” means a member of the Board, or a member of the board of directors of an Affiliate.

Disabled” or “Disability” means a physical or mental condition under which the Participant is receiving benefits under the Company’s long-term disability plan applicable to such Participant, and in the absence of such a plan, in the sole discretion of the Committee, the Participant –

 

  (i)

is unable to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, or

 

  (ii)

is, by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months, unable to provide service as defined in such individual’s employment or consulting agreement with the Company or is unable to perform the essential functions of the Participant’s duties, as the case may be, as an Employee, Director, or Consultant.

Effective Date” means the date determined in accordance with Section 1(d) of this Plan.

Eligible Person” has the meaning set forth in Section 1(b).

 

23


Employee” means any person whom the Company or any Affiliate classifies as an employee (including an officer) for employment tax purposes or, if in a jurisdiction that does not have employment taxes, any person whom the Company or any Affiliate classifies as an employee (including an officer), in either case whether or not that classification is correct. The payment by the Company of a director’s fee to a Director shall not be sufficient to constitute “employment” of such Director by the Company.

Employer” means the Company and each Subsidiary and Affiliate that employs one or more Participants.

Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

Fair Market Value” means, for purposes of this Plan and unless otherwise determined or provided by the Committee in the circumstances:

(i) If the Shares are listed or admitted to trade on the New York Stock Exchange or other national securities exchange (the “Exchange”), the Fair Market Value shall equal the closing price of Shares as reported on the composite tape for securities on the Exchange for the date in question, or, if no sales of Shares were made on the Exchange on that date, the closing price of Shares as reported on said composite tape for the next preceding day on which sales of Shares were made on the Exchange. The Committee may, however, provide with respect to one or more Awards that the Fair Market Value shall equal the closing price of Shares as reported on the composite tape for securities listed on the Exchange on the last trading day preceding the date in question or the average of the high and low trading prices of Shares as reported on the composite tape for securities listed on the Exchange for the date in question or the most recent trading day.

(i) If Shares are not listed or admitted to trade on an Exchange, the Fair Market Value shall be the value as reasonably determined by the Committee for purposes of the Award in the circumstances; provided that Fair Market Value shall be determined pursuant to a valuation of the Company by an independent appraisal that meets the requirements of Section 401(a)(28)(C) of the Code as of a date that is no more than 12 months before the date of grant of the Award or another methodology for determining fair market value that complies with Section 409A of the Code.

The Committee also may adopt a different methodology for determining Fair Market Value with respect to one or more Awards if a different methodology is necessary or advisable to secure any intended favorable tax, legal or other treatment for the particular Award(s) (for example, and without limitation, the Committee may provide that Fair Market Value for purposes of one or more Awards will be based on an average of closing prices (or the average of high and low daily trading prices) for a specified period preceding the relevant date). Any determination as to Fair Market Value made pursuant to this Plan shall be made without regard to any restriction other than a restriction which, by its terms, will never lapse, and shall be final, binding and conclusive on all persons with respect to Awards granted under this Plan.

Grant Date” means the later of (i) the date designated as the “Grant Date” within an Award Agreement, and (ii) the date on which the Committee determines the key terms of an Award, provided that as soon as reasonably practical thereafter the Committee both notifies the Eligible Person of the Award and enters into an Award Agreement with the Eligible Person.

 

24


Immediate Family” means any child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, spouse, former spouse, sibling, niece, nephew, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, or sister-in-law, and shall include adoptive relationships. “Immediate Family” also shall include a trust in which these persons have more than fifty percent of the beneficial interest, a foundation in which these persons (or the employee) control the management of assets, any other entity in which these persons (or the employee) own more than fifty percent of the voting interests, and any person sharing the employee’s household (other than a tenant or employee).

Incentive Stock Option” or “ISO” means an Option that qualifies for favorable income tax treatment under Code Section 422 and is specifically designated as an ISO in an Award Agreement.

Investor Director Provider” means any investor in the Company (or Affiliate of such investor) if one or more of its employees, direct or indirect owners or service providers serves as a Director, to the extent such Director and such investor (or Affiliate) agree that the investor (or Affiliate) will receive any Awards that such Director otherwise would receive.

Market Stand-Off” has the meaning set forth in Section 22(c) of this Plan.

Non-ISO” means an Option not specifically designated in an Award Agreement, or not otherwise qualifying, as an Incentive Stock Option.

Option” means any right to buy Shares that is granted to a Participant pursuant to Section 5.

Participant” means any Eligible Person who holds an outstanding Award.

Person” means any natural person, association, trust, business trust, cooperative, corporation, general partnership, joint venture, joint-stock company, limited partnership, limited liability company, real estate investment trust, regulatory body, governmental agency or instrumentality, unincorporated organization or organizational entity.

Plan” means this Tyra Biosciences, Inc. 2019 Equity Incentive Plan.

Reporting Person” means an Employee, Director, or Consultant who is required to file reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act and the rules promulgated thereunder.

Repurchase Limitation” has the meaning set forth in Section 9(a) of this Plan.

Restricted Share” means a Share awarded with restrictions imposed under Section 7.

Restricted Share Unit” or “RSU” means a right granted to a Participant to receive Shares or cash upon the lapse of restrictions imposed under Section 7.

 

25


Rule 16b-3” means Rule 16b-3 promulgated under the Exchange Act, as amended from time to time, or any successor provision.

Rule 405” means Rule 405 promulgated under the Exchange Act.

Rule 701” means Rule 701 promulgated under the Exchange Act.

Section 409A Award” has the meaning set forth in Section 5(a)(i) of this Plan.

Section 83(b) Election” has the meaning set forth in Section 7(d) of this Plan.

Share” means a share of Common Stock of the Company, as adjusted in accordance with Section 12 of this Plan.

Share Reserve” has the meaning set forth in Section 3(a) of this Plan.

SAR” or “Share Appreciation Right” means a right to receive amounts awarded under Section 6.

Successor Company” has the meaning set forth in Section 12(c) of this Plan.

Ten Percent Holder” means a Person who owns (within the meaning of Code Section 422) stock representing more than ten percent (10%) of the combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company.

Unrestricted Shares” mean Shares that are both awarded to Participants pursuant to Section 7 of this Plan, and not subject to a “substantial risk of forfeiture” within the meaning of Code Section 83.

Withholding Taxes” means the aggregate minimum amount of federal, state, local and foreign income, social insurance, payroll, and other taxes that the Company and any Affiliates are required or permitted to withhold in connection with any Award.

 

26


Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

2020 Equity Incentive Plan

 

GRANT NOTICE AND OPTION AGREEMENT

(INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION OR NON-INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION)

 

By this Option Agreement, Tyra Biosciences, Inc. (the “Company”) has granted you an Option under its 2020 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan,” attached as Exhibit A), effective as of the “Grant Date” set forth below. If this Option Agreement conflicts with the Plan, the Plan will control. Capitalized terms not explicitly defined herein are defined in the Plan. The details of your Option, in addition to those set forth in the Plan, are as follows:

1. GRANT OF OPTION. The Company would like to give you the opportunity under the Plan to purchase all or any part of the “Number of Shares Subject to the Option” as provided below.

 

Optionholder Name:    Name
Grant Date:    Date
Type of Option:   

   An Incentive Stock Option (ISO)

☐   A Non-Incentive Stock Option (Non-ISO)

Number of Shares Subject to the

Option:

   #
Vesting Schedule:   

The shares of common stock underlying the Option shall vest as follows: (i) #,### shares shall vest and be exercisable on the one-year anniversary of the date of grant, and (ii) commencing monthly after the first anniversary of the date of grant, ### shares shall vest and become exercisable (provided

that on the 48th month after the date of grant, ### shares shall vest and

become exercisable).

Vesting Commencement Date:   

   Same as Grant Date

☐   Date:                     

Exercise Price per Share:    $#.##

Exercise Schedule (subject to

Section 4 below):

  

☐   Same as Vesting Schedule

   Early exercise permitted

Expiration Date:   

   The ten-year anniversary of the Grant Date.

☐   The five-year anniversary of the Grant Date. (Select if the Participant is a Ten Percent Holder receiving an ISO.)

In all events unvested Options expire on the date your Continuous Service terminates.

Payment:   

By one or a combination of the following items (described in Plan Section 5(c)):

   By cash or check payable to the Company

☐   By delivery of already-owned Shares, as described in the Plan

☐ By a “net exercise” arrangement (only if this is a Non-ISO), as described in the Plan

☐   By cashless exercise, as described in the Plan

 

27


2. VESTING. Your Option will vest as provided in Section 1 above. Subject to the terms of any Employment Agreement then in effect, vesting will cease upon the termination of your Continuous Service as set forth in the Plan.

3. NUMBER OF SHARES AND EXERCISE PRICE. The number of Shares subject to your Option and your exercise price per share in Section 1 above may be adjusted as provided under the Plan.

4. EXERCISE RESTRICTION FOR NON-EXEMPT EMPLOYEES. Plan Section 5(i) is incorporated herein by reference.

5. EXERCISE PRIOR TO VESTING (“EARLY EXERCISE”). If the “Exercise Schedule” in Section 1 above indicates “Early Exercise Permitted,” you may elect at any time that is both (i) during the period of your Continuous Service and (ii) during the term of your Option, to exercise all or part of your Option, including the unvested portion of your Option; provided, however, that:

(a) a partial exercise of your Option will be deemed to cover first vested Shares and then the earliest vesting installment of unvested Shares;

(b) any Shares so purchased from installments unvested as of the date of exercise will be subject to the Company’s “Repurchase Option” described in the Company’s form of Early Exercise Stock Purchase Agreement; and

(c) you will enter into the Company’s form of Early Exercise Stock Purchase Agreement with a vesting schedule that will result in the same vesting as if no early exercise had occurred.

6. METHOD OF EXERCISE.

(a) The Plan sets forth rules for the exercise of your Option. You must pay the full amount of the exercise price for the Shares you wish to exercise, in any manner permitted by Section 1. The applicable form of written notice of exercise is attached as Exhibit B.

(b) By exercising your Option you agree that: (i) you will not sell, dispose of, transfer, make any short sale of, grant any option for the purchase of, or enter into any hedging or similar transaction with the same economic effect as a sale with respect to any Shares or other securities of the Company held by you, for a period of 180 days following the effective date of a registration statement of the Company filed under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or such longer period as the underwriters or the Company will request to facilitate compliance with FINRA Rule 2711 or NYSE Member Rule 472 or any successor or similar rule or regulation (the “Lock-Up Period”); provided, however, that nothing contained in this section will prevent the exercise of a repurchase option, if any, in favor of the Company during the Lock-Up Period. You further agree to execute and deliver such other agreements as may be reasonably requested by the Company or the underwriters that are consistent with the foregoing or that are necessary to give further effect thereto. In order to enforce the foregoing covenant, the Company may impose stop-transfer instructions with respect to your Shares until the end of such period. You also agree that any transferee of any Shares (or other securities) of the Company held by you will be bound by this Section 6(b). The underwriters of the Company’s stock are intended third party

 

28


beneficiaries of this Section 6(b) and will have the right, power and authority to enforce the provisions hereof as though they were a party hereto; and (ii) you will comply with Section 2.11 of the Investors’ Rights Agreement, dated as of January 6, 2020, by and among the Company and each of the investors listed on Schedule A thereto.

7. WHOLE SHARES. You may exercise your Option only for whole Shares.

8. SECURITIES LAW COMPLIANCE. In no event may you exercise your Option unless the Shares issuable upon exercise are then registered under the Securities Act or, if not registered, the Company has determined that your exercise and the issuance of the Shares would be exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. The exercise of your Option also must comply with all other Applicable Law, and you may not exercise your Option if the Company determines that such exercise would not be in material compliance with such Applicable Law.

9. TERM. You may not exercise your Option before the Grant Date or after your Option expires.

10. TRANSFERABILITY. Except as otherwise provided in the Plan, your Option is not transferable and is exercisable during your life only by you.

11. RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL. Shares you acquire upon exercise of your Option are subject to any right of first refusal that may be described in the Company’s bylaws in effect at such time the Company elects to exercise its right; provided, however, that if there is no right of first refusal described in the Company’s bylaws at such time, the right of first refusal described below will apply. The Company’s right of first refusal will expire on the first date upon which any security of the Company is listed on a national securities exchange or quotation system (the “Listing Date”).

(a) Prior to the Listing Date, you may not validly Transfer (as defined below) any Shares acquired upon exercise of your Option, or any interest in such Shares, unless such Transfer is made in compliance with the following provisions:

(i) Before there can be a valid Transfer of any Shares or any interest therein, the record holder of the Shares to be transferred (the “Offered Shares”) will give written notice (by registered or certified mail) to the Company. Such notice will specify the identity of the proposed transferee, the cash price offered for the Offered Shares by the proposed transferee (or, if the proposed Transfer is one in which the holder will not receive cash, such as an involuntary transfer, gift, donation or pledge, the holder will state that no purchase price is being proposed), and the other terms and conditions of the proposed Transfer. The date such notice is mailed will be hereinafter referred to as the “Notice Date” and the record holder of the Offered Shares will be hereinafter referred to as the “Offeror.” If, from time to time, there is any stock dividend, stock split or other change in the character or amount of any of the outstanding Common Stock which is subject to the provisions of your Option, then in such event any and all new, substituted or additional securities to which you are entitled by reason of your ownership of the Shares acquired upon exercise of your Option will be immediately subject to the Company’s Right of First Refusal (as defined below) with the same force and effect as the Shares subject to the Right of First Refusal immediately before such event.

 

29


(ii) For a period of 30 calendar days after the Notice Date, or such longer period as may be required to avoid the classification of your Option as a liability for financial accounting purposes, the Company will have the option to purchase all (but not less than all) of the Offered Shares at the purchase price and on the terms set forth in Section 11(a)(iii) (the Company’s “Right of First Refusal”). In the event that the proposed Transfer is one involving no payment of a purchase price, the purchase price will be deemed to be the Fair Market Value of the Offered Shares as determined in good faith by the Board in its discretion. The Company may exercise its Right of First Refusal by mailing (by registered or certified mail) written notice of exercise of its Right of First Refusal to the Offeror prior to the end of said 30 days (including any extension required to avoid classification of the Option as a liability for financial accounting purposes).

(iii) The price at which the Company may purchase the Offered Shares pursuant to the exercise of its Right of First Refusal will be the cash price offered for the Offered Shares by the proposed transferee (as set forth in the notice required under Section 11(a)(i)), or the Fair Market Value as determined by the Board in the event no purchase price is involved. To the extent consideration other than cash is offered by the proposed transferee, the Company will not be required to pay any additional amounts to the Offeror other than the cash price offered (or the Fair Market Value, if applicable). The Company’s notice of exercise of its Right of First Refusal will be accompanied by full payment for the Offered Shares and, upon such payment by the Company, the Company will acquire full right, title and interest to all of the Offered Shares.

(iv) If, and only if, the option given pursuant to Section 11(a)(ii) is not exercised, the Transfer proposed in the notice given pursuant to Section 11(a)(i) may take place; provided, however, that such Transfer must, in all respects, be exactly as proposed in said notice except that such Transfer may not take place either before the 10th calendar day after the expiration of the 30 day option exercise period or after the 90th calendar day after the expiration of the 30 day option exercise period, and if such Transfer has not taken place prior to said 90th day, such Transfer may not take place without once again complying with this Section 11(a). The option exercise periods in this Section 11(a)(iv) will be adjusted to include any extension required to avoid the classification of your option as a liability for financial accounting purposes.

(b) As used in this Section 11, the term “Transfer” means any sale, encumbrance, pledge, gift or other form of disposition or transfer of Shares or any legal or equitable interest therein; provided, however, that the term Transfer does not include a transfer of such Shares or interests by will or intestacy to your Immediate Family. In such case, the transferee or other recipient will receive and hold the Shares so transferred subject to the provisions of this Section, and there will be no further transfer of such Shares except in accordance with the terms of this Section 11.

(c) No Shares purchased on exercise of your Option will be transferred on the Company’s books nor will the Company recognize any such Transfer of any such Shares or any interest therein unless and until all applicable provisions of this Section 11 have been complied with in all respects. The certificates of stock evidencing Shares purchased on exercise of your Option will bear an appropriate legend referring to the transfer restrictions imposed by this Section 11.

(d) To ensure that the Shares subject to the Company’s Right of First Refusal will be available for repurchase by the Company, the Company may require you to deposit the certificates evidencing the Shares that you purchase upon exercise of your Option with an escrow agent

 

30


designated by the Company under the terms and conditions of an escrow agreement approved by the Company. If the Company does not require such deposit as a condition of exercise of your Option, the Company reserves the right at any time to require you to so deposit the certificates in escrow. As soon as practicable after the expiration of the Company’s Right of First Refusal, the agent will deliver to you the Shares and any other property no longer subject to such restriction. In the event the Shares and any other property held in escrow are subject to the Company’s exercise of its Right of First Refusal, the notices required to be given to you will be given to the escrow agent, and any payment required to be given to you will be given to the escrow agent. Within 30 days after payment by the Company for the Offered Shares, the escrow agent will deliver the Offered Shares that the Company has repurchased to the Company and will deliver the payment received from the Company to you.

12. RIGHT OF REPURCHASE. To the extent provided in the Plan or the Company’s bylaws in effect at such time the Company elects to exercise its right, the Company will have the right to repurchase all or any part of the Shares you acquire pursuant to the exercise of your Option.

13. NOT A CONTRACT OF EMPLOYMENT. By executing this Option Agreement you acknowledge and agree that (i) nothing in this Option Agreement or the Plan confers on you any right to continue an employment, service or consulting relationship with the Company, nor shall it affect in any way your right or the Company’s right to terminate your employment, service, or consulting relationship at any time, with or without Cause; and (ii) the Company would not have granted this Option to you but for these acknowledgements and agreements.

14. WITHHOLDING OBLIGATIONS.

(a) At the time you exercise your Option, in whole or in part, and at any time thereafter as requested by the Company, you hereby authorize withholding from payroll and any other amounts payable to you, and otherwise agree to make adequate provision for (including by means of a “same day sale” pursuant to a program developed under Regulation T as promulgated by the Federal Reserve Board to the extent permitted by the Company), any sums required to satisfy the Withholding Tax obligations of the Company or an Affiliate, if any, which arise in connection with the exercise of your Option.

(b) If this Option is a Non-ISO, then upon your request and subject to approval by the Company, and compliance with any Applicable Law, the Company may withhold from fully vested Shares otherwise issuable to you upon the exercise of your Option a number of whole Shares having a Fair Market Value, determined by the Company as of the date of exercise, not in excess of the minimum amount of tax required to be withheld by Applicable Law (or such lower amount as may be necessary to avoid classification of your Option as a liability for financial accounting purposes). If the date of determination of any tax withholding obligation is deferred to a date later than the date of exercise of your Option, Share withholding pursuant to the preceding sentence shall not be permitted unless you make a proper and timely election under Section 83(b) of the Code, covering the aggregate number of Shares acquired upon such exercise with respect to which such determination is otherwise deferred, to accelerate the determination of such Withholding Tax obligation to the date of exercise of your Option. Notwithstanding the filing of such election, Shares shall be withheld solely from fully vested Shares determined as of the date of exercise of your Option that are otherwise issuable to you upon such exercise. Any adverse consequences to you arising in connection with such Share withholding procedure shall be your sole responsibility.

 

31


(c) You may not exercise your Option unless the Withholding Tax obligations of the Company and/or any Affiliate are satisfied. Accordingly, you may not be able to exercise your Option when desired even though your Option is vested, and the Company will have no obligation to issue a certificate for such Shares or release such Shares from any escrow provided for herein, if applicable, unless such obligations are satisfied.

15. TAX CONSEQUENCES. You hereby agree that the Company does not have a duty to design or administer the Plan or its other compensation programs in a manner that minimizes your tax liabilities. You will not make any claim against the Company, or any of its officers, Directors, Employees or Affiliates related to tax liabilities arising from your Option or your other compensation. In particular, you acknowledge that this Option is exempt from Section 409A of the Code only if the exercise price per Share specified in the Grant Notice is at least equal to the Fair Market Value per Share on the Grant Date and there is no other impermissible deferral of compensation associated with the Option. Because the Common Stock is not traded on an established securities market, the Fair Market Value is determined by the Board, perhaps in consultation with an independent valuation firm retained by the Company. You acknowledge that there is no guarantee that the Internal Revenue Service will agree with the valuation as determined by the Board, and you will not make any claim against the Company, or any of its officers, Directors, Employees or Affiliates in the event that the Internal Revenue Service asserts that the valuation determined by the Board is less than the “fair market value” as subsequently determined by the Internal Revenue Service.

16. NOTICES.

(a) All notices required or permitted under your Option or the Plan shall be in writing (including electronically) and shall be deemed effectively given: (i) upon personal delivery to the party to be notified, (ii) when sent by confirmed facsimile if sent during normal business hours of the recipient, and if not during normal business hours of the recipient, then on the next business day, (iii) five calendar days after having been sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid, or (iv) one business day after deposit with a nationally recognized overnight courier, specifying next day delivery, with written verification of receipt. All communications shall be sent to the other party hereto at such party’s address hereinafter set forth on the signature page hereof, addressed to you at the last address you provided to the Company, or at such other address as such party may designate by ten days advance written notice to the other party hereto.

(b) The Company may, in its sole discretion, decide to deliver any documents related to participation in the Plan and this Option by electronic means or to request your consent to participate in the Plan by electronic means. By accepting this Option, you consent to receive such documents by electronic delivery and to participate in the Plan through an on-line or electronic system established and maintained by the Company or another third party designated by the Company, though you may opt out of such electronic delivery and electronic system by notifying the Chief Executive Officer of the Company.

17. WAIVER OF STATUTORY INFORMATION RIGHTS. You understand and agree that, but for the waiver made herein, you would be entitled, upon written demand under oath stating the purpose thereof, to inspect for any proper purpose, and to make copies and extracts from, the Company’s stock ledger, a list of its stockholders, and its other books and records, and the books and records of subsidiaries of the Company, if any, under the circumstances and in the manner provided in Section 220 of the General Corporation Law of Delaware (any and all such rights, and any and all

 

32


such other rights of the Optionee as may be provided for in Section 220, the “Inspection Rights”). In light of the foregoing, until the date of an initial public offering, you hereby unconditionally and irrevocably waive the Inspection Rights, whether such Inspection Rights would be exercised or pursued directly or indirectly pursuant to Section 220 or otherwise, and covenant and agree never to directly or indirectly commence, voluntarily aid in any way, prosecute, assign, transfer, or cause to be commenced any claim, action, cause of action, or other proceeding to pursue or exercise the Inspection Rights. The foregoing waiver shall not affect any rights of a director, in his or her capacity as such, under Section 220. The foregoing waiver shall not apply to any contractual inspection rights that you may have under any other written agreement between you and the Company.

18. GOVERNING PLAN DOCUMENT. Your Option is subject to all Plan provisions, the provisions of which are hereby made a part of your Option, and is further subject to all interpretations, amendments, rules and regulations, which may from time to time be promulgated and adopted pursuant to the Plan.

 

33


BY YOUR SIGNATURE BELOW, along with the signature of the Company’s representative, you and the Company agree that this Option is made under and governed by the terms and conditions of this Option Agreement and the Plan.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

 

  Name:   Todd Harris
  Title:   President and Chief Executive Officer

 

OPTIONHOLDER
Signature:  

 

Printed Name of Optionholder:     Name:  
Date:  

 


EXHIBIT A

Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

 

 

2020 EQUITY INCENTIVE PLAN

PLAN DOCUMENT

 


EXHIBIT B

STOCK OPTION NOTICE OF EXERCISE

Tyra Biosciences, Inc.

2333 State St. Suite 201

Carlsbad, California 92008

Attention: Chief Executive Officer

Date of Exercise:                     

Ladies and Gentlemen:

This letter is intended to inform you of my election pursuant to that certain Stock Option Agreement between me and Tyra Biosciences, Inc. (the “Company”) to purchase pursuant to my Option (as defined in the Stock Option Agreement) that number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock indicated below:

 

Type of option (check one):    Incentive  ☐    Nonstatutory  ☐
Number of shares as to which Option is exercised:                                     
Total exercise price:    $                               
Cash payment delivered herewith:    $                               

I hereby make the following certifications and representations with respect to the number of shares of Common Stock of the Company listed above (the “Shares”), which are being acquired by me for my own account upon exercise of the Option as set forth above:

I acknowledge that the Shares have not been registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), and are deemed to constitute “restricted securities” under Rule 701 and Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act. I warrant and represent to the Company that I have no present intention of distributing or selling the Shares, except as permitted under the Securities Act and any applicable state securities laws.

I further acknowledge that all certificates representing any of the Shares subject to the provisions of the Option shall have endorsed thereon appropriate legends reflecting the foregoing limitations, as well as any legends reflecting restrictions pursuant to the Company’s Certificate of Incorporation, bylaws and/or applicable securities laws.

 

Very truly yours,
By:  

 

Name:  

 

EX-10.5

Exhibit 10.5

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Amended and Restated Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into this 6th day of January, 2020 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Todd Harris (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”). Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have those meanings set forth in Appendix I hereto.

WHEREAS, the Company and Executive are parties to that certain Employment Agreement dated as of November 5, 2018 (the “Prior Agreement”); and

WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive desire to amend the terms of the Employee’s employment with the Company as reflected herein, amending and restating the Prior Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, including the respective covenants and agreements set forth below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Employment.

(a) General. The Company shall employ Executive upon the terms and conditions provided herein effective as of the Effective Date.

(b) Position and Duties. Effective on the Effective Date, Executive shall serve as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and President, with responsibilities, duties, and authority usual and customary for such positions. During Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive shall report directly to the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) and agrees promptly and faithfully to comply with all present and future policies, requirements, rules and regulations, and reasonable directions and requests, of the Company in connection with the Company’s business. Executive will at all times perform all of the duties and obligations required by Executive under this Agreement in a loyal and conscientious manner and to the best of Executive’s ability and experience.

(c) Performance of Executive’s Duties. During Executive’s employment with the Company, and except for periods of illness, vacation, Disability, or excused leaves of absence, Executive shall devote Executive’s full time and attention to the business and affairs of the Company; provided that nothing herein shall preclude Executive from, subject to prior consent of the Board: (i) engaging in additional activities in connection with personal investments and community affairs including service on non-profit boards of directors; (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors for for-profit organizations that are not competitors of the Company; and (iii) serving as an advisor, or as a member of an advisory board of organizations that are not competitors of the Company; provided such activities do not individually or in the aggregate interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement, violate the Company’s standards of conduct then in effect or raise a conflict under the Company’s conflict of interest policies.


2. Term. The period of Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and shall continue until Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated. The phrase “Term of Employment” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the entire period of employment of Executive by the Company.

3. Compensation and Related Matters.

(a) Annual Base Salary. Executive shall receive a base salary at the rate of $340,000 per annum (as may be increased from time to time, the “Annual Base Salary”), subject to withholdings and deductions, which shall be paid to Executive in accordance with the customary payroll practices and procedures of the Company. Such Annual Base Salary shall be reviewed by the Board, not less than annually, and may be increased, but not decreased, in connection with any such review.

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible to receive a discretionary annual bonus based on Executive’s achievement of performance objectives in accordance with the terms set forth by the Board, such bonus target to be equal to 40% of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (the “Annual Bonus”). Any Annual Bonus earned will be paid at the same time annual bonuses are paid to other executives of the Company generally, subject to any limitations on payment as set forth in Section 6.

(c) Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee and executive benefit plans and programs as the Company may offer from time to time to provide to its executives, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein is intended, or shall be construed, to require the Company to institute or continue any, or any particular, plan, or benefits.

(d) Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket travel and other business expenses incurred by Executive in the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company in accordance with the Company’s applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures as are in effect from time to time.

(e) Vacation. Executive will be entitled to not less than fifteen (15) business days of paid vacation each calendar year, pro-rated for partial calendar years of service, which may be taken in accordance with the Company’s vacation policy.

(f) Equity Awards. Executive shall be eligible to receive grants of equity awards in the Company’s sole discretion.

(g) Indemnification Agreement Insurance. As an officer of the Company, Executive shall be entitled to enter into the Company’s standard indemnification agreement. Executive will also be covered under a directors and officers liability insurance policy paid for by the Company for so long as Executive serves as an officer of the Company.

 

2


4. Acceleration of Equity Awards Upon a Change in Control. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of a Change in Control, the vesting of Executive’s then outstanding options, restricted stock and other equity awards covering shares of the Company’s common stock (collectively, “Equity Awards”) shall accelerate as of immediately prior to such Change in Control with respect to fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to such Equity Awards. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to Executive’s Equity Awards shall continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the Change in Control, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Executive’s Equity Awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the Change in Control shall thereupon vest in full, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through such first anniversary. Notwithstanding the foregoing and for the avoidance of doubt, any shares subject to Equity Awards that do not accelerate immediately prior to the Change in Control in accordance with the foregoing shall be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6(d)(iii) below.

5. Termination.

(a) At-Will Employment. The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and shall continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law. This means that it is not for any specified period of time and can be terminated by Executive or by the Company at any time, with or without advance notice, and for any or no particular reason or cause. It also means that Executive’s job duties, title, and responsibility and reporting level, work schedule, compensation, and benefits, as well as the Company’s personnel policies and procedures, may be changed with prospective effect, with or without notice, at any time in the sole discretion of the Company (subject to any ramification such changes may have under Section 6 of this Agreement). This “at-will” nature of Executive’s employment shall remain unchanged during Executive’s tenure as an employee and may not be changed, except in an express writing signed by Executive and the Board. If Executive’s employment terminates for any lawful reason, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, Equity Awards or other compensation other than as provided in this Agreement.

(b) Notice of Termination. During the Term of Employment, any termination of Executive’s employment by the Company or by Executive (other than by reason of death) shall be communicated by written notice (a “Notice of Termination”) from one Party hereto to the other Party hereto (i) indicating the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, if any, (ii) setting forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated and (iii) specifying the date of the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (the “Date of Termination”). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder. The failure by Executive to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Good Reason shall not waive any right of Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

(c) Deemed Resignation. Upon termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from all offices and board memberships, if any, then held with the Company or any of its affiliates, and, at the Company’s request, Executive shall execute such documents as are necessary or desirable to effectuate such resignations.

 

3


6. Consequences of Termination.

(a) Release. In the event Executive’s employment with the Company terminates pursuant to Section 5, then Executive shall be entitled to the applicable payments and benefits set forth below subject to Executive delivering to the Company a waiver and release of claims agreement in standard reasonable form approved by the Company that becomes effective and irrevocable in accordance with Section 7 hereof (a “Release”).

(b) Payments upon Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason. Upon a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause, Executive (or Executive’s estate or legal representative, as applicable) shall be entitled to receive: (i) any portion of Executive’s Annual Base Salary earned through Executive’s Date of Termination not theretofore paid; (ii) any reimbursement of expenses owed to Executive under Section 3(e) above; and (iii) any accrued but unused paid time-off owed to Executive ((i)-(iii) defined as the “Accrued Obligations”). In the event Executive is terminated by the Company for Cause, Executive shall forfeit, effective as of the date Executive engages in such conduct giving rise to his termination for Cause, all unexercised, unearned and/or unpaid Equity Awards, including without limitation, Equity Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing. Any termination of employment by Executive without Good Reason shall be deemed, and shall be treated as, a termination for “Cause”, and accordingly, the Company shall only be obligated to pay to Executive the amounts described in this Section 6(b).

(c) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination Outside a Change in Control Period. If, outside a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) twelve months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s target Annual Bonus, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Executive’s Date of Termination;

(iii) fifty percent (50%) of the unvested Equity Awards held by the Executive as of the Date of Termination will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the six-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder (“COBRA”), the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and

 

4


Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, coverage under its group health plan (if any) at the same coverage levels in effect on the Date of Termination (“Benefits Coverage”); provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(d) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination During a Change in Control Period. If, during a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) eighteen months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s target Annual Bonus;

(iii) one hundred percent (100%) of all unvested Equity Awards held by Executive as of the Date of Termination, will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the first anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under COBRA, the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, the Benefits Coverage; provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(e) No Other Severance. The provisions of this Section 6 shall supersede in their entirety any severance payment provisions in any severance plan, policy, program, or other arrangement maintained by the Company except for such additional benefits otherwise approved by the Board or Compensation Committee of the Board after the date hereof.

 

5


(f) No Requirement to Mitigate; Survival. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the termination of Executive’s employment shall not impair the rights or obligations of any Party.

7. Release. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any payments or other benefits due under this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment are subject to Executive’s execution and delivery of a Release, (a) the Company shall deliver the Release to Executive within ten (10) business days following Executive’s Date of Termination, and the Company’s failure to deliver a Release prior to the expiration of such ten (10) business day period shall constitute a waiver of any requirement to execute a Release, (b) if Executive fails to execute the Release on or prior to the Release Expiration Date (as defined below) or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of the Release thereafter, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release, and (c) in any case where Executive’s Date of Termination and the Release Expiration Date fall in two separate taxable years, any payments required to be made to Executive that are conditioned on the Release and are treated as nonqualified deferred compensation for purposes of Section 409A (as defined below) shall be made in the later taxable year. For purposes of this Section 7, “Release Expiration Date” shall mean the date that is twenty-one (21) days following the date upon which the Company timely delivers the Release to Executive, or, in the event that Executive’s termination of employment is “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967), the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery date. To the extent that any payments of nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A (as defined below)) due under this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment are delayed pursuant to this Section 7, such amounts shall be paid in a lump sum on the first payroll date following the date that Executive executes and does not revoke the Release (and the applicable revocation period has expired) or, in the case of any payments subject to Section 7(c), on the first payroll period to occur in the subsequent taxable year, if later.

8. Non-Solicitation of Employees. For a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall not, either directly or indirectly (a) solicit for employment through any individual, corporation, firm, or other business, any employees, consultants, independent contractors, or other service providers of the Company or any of its affiliates, or (b) solicit any employee, consultant or other service provider of the Company or any of its affiliates to leave the employment or consulting of or cease providing services to the Company or any of its affiliates; provided, however, that the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) shall not apply to inbound inquiries or any general advertisement or solicitation (or any hiring pursuant to such advertisement or solicitation) that is not specifically targeted to such employees, consultants or other service providers.

9. Golden Parachute Excise Tax.

(a) Best Pay. Any provision of this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment or benefit Executive would receive from the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payment”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this sentence, be subject to the excise tax imposed by

 

6


Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such Payment will be equal to the Reduced Amount (as defined below). The “Reduced Amount” will be either (A) the largest portion of the Payment that would result in no portion of the Payment (after reduction) being subject to the Excise Tax or (B) the entire Payment, whichever amount after taking into account all applicable federal, state, and local employment taxes, income taxes, and the Excise Tax (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from a deduction of such state and local taxes), results in Executive’ s receipt, on an after-tax basis, of the greater economic benefit notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Payment may be subject to the Excise Tax. If a reduction in a Payment is required pursuant to the preceding sentence and the Reduced Amount is determined pursuant to clause (A) of the preceding sentence, the reduction shall occur in the manner (the “Reduction Method”) that results in the greatest economic benefit for Executive. If more than one method of reduction will result in the same economic benefit, the items so reduced will be reduced pro rata (the “Pro Rata Reduction Method”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Reduction Method or the Pro Rata Reduction Method would result in any portion of the Payment being subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A (as defined below) that would not otherwise be subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A, then the Reduction Method and/or the Pro Rata Reduction Method, as the case may be, shall be modified so as to avoid the imposition of taxes pursuant to Section 409A as follows: (1) as a first priority, the modification shall preserve to the greatest extent possible, the greatest economic benefit for Executive as determined on an after-tax basis; (2) as a second priority, Payments that are contingent on future events (e.g., being terminated without cause), shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not contingent on future events; and (3) as a third priority, Payments that are “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A.

(b) Accounting Firm. The accounting firm engaged by the Company for general tax purposes as of the day prior to the Change in Control will perform the calculations set forth in Section 9(a) above. If the firm so engaged by the Company is serving as the accountant or auditor for the Acquiring Company, the Company will appoint a nationally recognized accounting firm to make the determinations required hereunder. The Company will bear all expenses with respect to the determinations by such firm required to be made hereunder. The accounting firm engaged to make the determinations hereunder will provide its calculations, together with detailed supporting documentation, to the Company within thirty (30) days before the consummation of a Change in Control (if requested at that time by the Company) or such other time as requested by the Company. If the accounting firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable with respect to a Payment, either before or after the application of the Reduced Amount, it will furnish the Company with documentation reasonably acceptable to the Company that no Excise Tax will be imposed with respect to such Payment. Any good faith determinations of the accounting firm made hereunder will be final, binding and conclusive upon the Company and Executive.

 

7


10. Section 409A.

(a) General. The intent of the Parties is that the payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date, (“Section 409A”) and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted to be in compliance therewith. If Executive notifies the Company that Executive has received advice of tax counsel of a national reputation with expertise in Section 409A that any provision of this Agreement would cause Executive to incur any additional tax or interest under Section 409A (with specificity as to the reason therefor) or the Company independently makes such determination, the Company and Executive shall take commercially reasonable efforts to reform such provision to try to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A through good faith modifications to the minimum extent reasonably appropriate to conform with Section 409A, provided that any such modifications shall not increase the cost or liability to the Company. To the extent that any provision hereof is modified in order to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A, such modification shall be made in good faith and shall, to the maximum extent reasonably possible, maintain the original intent and economic benefit to Executive and the Company of the applicable provision without violating the provisions of Section 409A.

(b) Separation from Service. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Agreement: (i) no amount that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A shall be payable pursuant to Section 6(c) or Section 6(d) above unless the termination of Executive’s employment constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Department of Treasury Regulations (“Separation from Service”); (ii) for purposes of Section 409A, Executive’s right to receive installment payments shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments; and (iii) to the extent that any reimbursement of expenses or in-kind benefits constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A, such reimbursement or benefit shall be provided no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the expense was incurred. The amount of expenses reimbursed in one year shall not affect the amount eligible for reimbursement in any subsequent year. The amount of any in-kind benefits provided in one year shall not affect the amount of in-kind benefits provided in any other year.

(c) Specified Employee. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if Executive is deemed by the Company at the time of Executive’s Separation from Service to be a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A, to the extent delayed commencement of any portion of the benefits to which Executive is entitled under this Agreement is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Section 409A, such portion of Executive’s benefits shall not be provided to Executive prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6)-month period measured from the date of Executive’s Separation from Service with the Company or (ii) the date of Executive’s death. Upon the first business day following the expiration of the applicable Section 409A period, all payments deferred pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries), and any remaining payments due to Executive under this Agreement shall be paid as otherwise provided herein.

11. Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement any federal, state, local, or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which the Company is required to withhold. The Company shall be entitled to rely on an opinion of counsel if any questions as to the amount or requirement of withholding shall arise.

 

8


12. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) Prior Employment. Executive represents and warrants that Executive’s acceptance of employment with the Company has not breached, and the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder will not breach, any duty owed by Executive to any prior employer or other person. Executive further represents and warrants to the Company that: (a) the performance of Executive’s obligations hereunder will not violate any agreement between Executive and any other person, firm, organization, or other entity; (b) Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party to refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or other party that would be violated by Executive entering into this Agreement and/or providing services to the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; and (c) Executive’s performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement will not require Executive to, and Executive shall not, rely on in the performance of Executive’s duties or disclose to the Company or any other person or entity or induce the Company in any way to use or rely on any trade secret or other confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer of Executive.

(b) Assignment and Successors. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor to all or substantially all of the business or the assets of the Company (by merger or otherwise). This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, Executive, and their respective successors, assigns, personnel, and legal representatives, executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees, as applicable. None of Executive’s rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred by Executive, other than Executive’s rights to payments hereunder, which may be transferred only by will, operation of law, or as otherwise provided herein.

(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, construed, interpreted, and enforced in accordance with its express terms, and otherwise in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of California, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law, whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction, and where applicable, the laws of the United States, that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction.

(d) Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

(e) Amendments: Waivers. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. By an instrument in writing similarly executed, Executive or a duly authorized officer of the Company, as applicable, may waive compliance by the other Party with any specifically identified provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is obligated to comply with or perform; provided, however, that such waiver shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any other or subsequent failure. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right, remedy, or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy, or power provided herein or by law or in equity.

 

9


(f) Dispute Resolution. Executive agrees that if any disputes should arise between Executive and the Company (including claims against its employees, officers, directors, shareholders, agents, successors, and assigns) relating or pertaining to or arising out of Executive’s employment with the Company, the dispute will be submitted exclusively to binding arbitration before a neutral arbitrator mutually selected by the Company and Executive. This means that disputes will be decided by an arbitrator rather than a court or jury, and that both Executive and the Company waive their respective rights to a court or jury trial. Judgment on the arbitration award may be entered in any court having jurisdiction. Nothing herein shall prevent either Party from pursuing injunctive relief in court (without having to post a bond) to avoid irreparable harm pending completion of any arbitration. Within twenty (20) days of the conclusion of the arbitration hearing, the arbitrator shall prepare written findings of fact and conclusions of law. Each party shall bear its own costs and attorneys’ fees in connection with arbitration; provided that the Company shall pay all costs unique to arbitration, including the arbitrator’s fees and costs, that Executive would not be required to pay if the claim was in court. Executive shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs incurred by Executive in any arbitration Executive initiates to enforce Executive’s rights under this Agreement and in which Executive is deemed to be the prevailing party.

(g) Enforcement. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable under present or future laws, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision had never comprised a portion of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement. Furthermore, in lieu of such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision there shall be added automatically as part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable.

(h) Entire Agreement. The terms of this Agreement are intended by the Parties to be the final expression of their agreement with respect to the employment of Executive by the Company and supersede all prior understandings and agreements, whether written or oral, regarding Executive’s employment with the Company. The Parties further intend that this Agreement shall constitute the complete and exclusive statement of their terms and that no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may be introduced in any judicial, administrative, or other legal proceeding to vary the terms of this Agreement.

(i) Prior Agreement. This Agreement supersedes the Prior Agreement and all prior or contemporaneous agreements and statements, whether written or oral, concerning the terms of Executive’s employment with the Company.

(j) Employee Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges that Executive has read and understands this Agreement, is fully aware of its legal effect, has not acted in reliance upon any representations or promises made by the Company other than those contained in writing herein, and has entered into this Agreement freely based on Executive’s own judgment.

 

10


(k) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same Agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile shall be deemed effective for all purposes.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

11


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Daniel Bensen

Name: Daniel Bensen
Title: Chief Operating Officer
EXECUTIVE
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris

Name: Todd Harris
Address:

 

 

[Signature Page to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement]


APPENDIX I

DEFINITIONS

All defined terms used in this Appendix I that are not otherwise defined in this Appendix I shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Amended and Restated Employment Agreement to which this Appendix I relates.

Acquiring Company” shall mean the resulting or surviving corporation, or the company issuing cash or securities (or its ultimate parent company), in a merger consolidation, tender offer or share exchange involving the Company, or the successor corporation to the Company (whether in any such transaction or otherwise).

Cause” shall mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following events or conditions:

(i) any material failure on the part of Executive (other than by reason of Disability of Executive) to faithfully and professionally carry out Executive’s duties which failure continues for ten (10) days after written notice detailing such failure is delivered to Executive by the Company;

(ii) Executive’s dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of the Company;

(iii) Executive’s conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony.

(iv) Executive’s insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Executive to perform the same;

(v) Executive’s material breach of any written agreement with the Company or any of its affiliates or material violation of the Company’s Code of Conduct or any other material written policy of the Company; or

(vi) Any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Executive.

Change in Control” shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events or circumstances:

(i) any “person” (within the meaning of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)), including a “group” within the meaning of such Section 13(d) but excluding the Company and any of its subsidiaries and any employee benefit plan sponsored or maintained by the Company or any subsidiary thereof, shall become the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing fifty percent (50%) or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (“Company Voting Securities”);

 

 

Appendix I-1


(ii) the consummation of a merger or consolidation involving the Company, or the acceptance by the stockholders of the Company of equity securities in a share exchange, where the Persons who were the beneficial owners of the Company Voting Securities outstanding immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or share exchange, do not beneficially own, directly or indirectly, immediately after such merger, consolidation or share exchange, securities representing more than fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power of the then-outstanding Company Voting Securities or voting securities of the Acquiring Company in such merger, consolidation or share exchange, in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or share exchange;

(iii) a sale, exchange or other disposition or transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company; provided, however, that a Change in Control shall not be deemed to have occurred where: (x) the Company sells, exchanges or otherwise disposes or transfers all or substantially all of its assets to another Person which is beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, immediately following such transaction by the holders of Company Voting Securities in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such transaction; and (y) such Person expressly assumes this Agreement; or

(iv) such time as the Continuing Directors (as defined below) do not constitute at least a majority of the Board (or, if applicable, the board of directors of a successor to the Company), where the term “Continuing Director” means at any date a member of the Board who was: (x) a member of the Board on the Effective Date; or (y) nominated or elected subsequent to the Effective Date by at least a majority of the directors who were Continuing Directors at the time of such nomination or election or whose election to the Board was recommended or endorsed by at least a majority of the directors who were Continuing Directors at the time of such nomination or election (it being understood that no individual whose initial assumption of office occurred as a result of an actual or threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board shall be a Continuing Director).

Change in Control Period” shall mean the period commencing three (3) months prior to a Change in Control and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary of the Change in Control.

Disability” shall mean permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

Good Reason” shall mean any one of the following: (i) the material reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in your Annual Base Salary); (ii) a material reduction of Executive’s duties and responsibilities from those in effect on the Effective Date; (iii) the Company’s material breach of this Agreement (other than a reduction of your Annual Base Salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in your Annual Base Salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Executive’s principal place of employment that increases Executive’s one-way

 

Appendix I-2


commute by more than thirty-five (35) miles, provided, that, in each case, Executive will not be deemed to have Good Reason unless (A) Executive first provides the Board with written notice of the condition giving rise to Good Reason within thirty (30)days of its initial occurrence, (B) the Company or the successor company fails to cure such condition within ten (10) days after receiving such written notice (the “Cure Period”), and (C) Executive’s resignation based on such Good Reason is effective within thirty (30)days after the expiration of the Cure Period.

Involuntary Termination” shall mean Executive’s termination (A) by the Company without Cause, (B) by Executive for Good Reason, (C) due to death or (D) due to Disability.

Person shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, or other business entity.

 

Appendix I-3

EX-10.6

Exhibit 10.6

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Amended and Restated Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into this 6th day of January, 2020 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Dan Bensen (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”). Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have those meanings set forth in Appendix I hereto.

WHEREAS, the Company and Executive are parties to that certain Employment Agreement dated as of November 5, 2018 (the “Prior Agreement”); and

WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive desire to amend the terms of the Employee’s employment with the Company as reflected herein, amending and restating the Prior Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, including the respective covenants and agreements set forth below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Employment.

(a) General. The Company shall employ Executive upon the terms and conditions provided herein effective as of the Effective Date.

(b) Position and Duties. Effective on the Effective Date, Executive shall serve as the Company’s Chief Operating Officer (“COO”), with responsibilities, duties, and authority usual and customary for such position subject to direction by the Chief Executive Officer (the “CEO”). During Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive shall report directly to the CEO and agrees promptly and faithfully to comply with all present and future policies, requirements, rules and regulations, and reasonable directions and requests, of the Company in connection with the Company’s business. Executive will at all times perform all of the duties and obligations required by Executive under this Agreement in a loyal and conscientious manner and to the best of Executive’s ability and experience.

(c) Performance of Executive’s Duties. During Executive’s employment with the Company, and except for periods of illness, vacation, Disability, or excused leaves of absence, Executive shall devote Executive’s full time and attention to the business and affairs of the Company pursuant to the general direction of the CEO; provided that nothing herein shall preclude Executive from, subject to prior consent of the CEO: (i) engaging in additional activities in connection with personal investments and community affairs including service on non-profit boards of directors; (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors for for-profit organizations that are not competitors of the Company; and (iii) serving as an advisor, or as a member of an advisory board of organizations that are not competitors of the Company; provided such activities do not individually or in the aggregate interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement, violate the Company’s standards of conduct then in effect or raise a conflict under the Company’s conflict of interest policies.

 


2. Term. The period of Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and shall continue until Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated. The phrase “Term of Employment” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the entire period of employment of Executive by the Company.

3. Compensation and Related Matters.

(a) Annual Base Salary. Executive shall receive a base salary at the rate of $250,000 per annum (as may be increased from time to time, the “Annual Base Salary”), subject to withholdings and deductions, which shall be paid to Executive in accordance with the customary payroll practices and procedures of the Company. Such Annual Base Salary shall be reviewed by the CEO, and as applicable, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”), not less than annually, and may be increased, but not decreased, in connection with any such review.

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible to receive a discretionary annual bonus based on Executive’s achievement of performance objectives as mutually agreed between Executive and the CEO, such bonus target to be equal to 30% of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (the “Annual Bonus”). Any Annual Bonus earned will be paid at the same time annual bonuses are paid to other executives of the Company generally, subject to any limitations on payment as set forth in Section 6.

(c) Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee and executive benefit plans and programs as the Company may offer from time to time to provide to its executives, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein is intended, or shall be construed, to require the Company to institute or continue any, or any particular, plan, or benefits.

(d) Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket travel and other business expenses incurred by Executive in the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company in accordance with the Company’s applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures as are in effect from time to time.

(e) Vacation. Executive will be entitled to not less than fifteen (15) business days of paid vacation each calendar year, pro-rated for partial calendar years of service, which may be taken in accordance with the Company’s vacation policy.

(f) Equity Awards. Executive shall be eligible to receive grants of equity awards in the Company’s sole discretion.

(g) Indemnification Agreement; Insurance. As an officer of the Company, Executive shall be entitled to enter into the Company’s standard indemnification agreement. Executive will also be covered under a directors and officers liability insurance policy paid for by the Company for so long as Executive serves as an officer of the Company.

 

2


4. Acceleration of Equity Awards Upon a Change in Control. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of a Change in Control, the vesting of Executive’s then outstanding options, restricted stock and other equity awards covering shares of the Company’s common stock (collectively, “Equity Awards”) shall accelerate as of immediately prior to such Change in Control with respect to fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to such Equity Awards. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to Executive’s Equity Awards shall continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the Change in Control, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Executive’s Equity Awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the Change in Control shall thereupon vest in full, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through such first anniversary. Notwithstanding the foregoing and for the avoidance of doubt, any shares subject to Equity Awards that do not accelerate immediately prior to the Change in Control in accordance with the foregoing shall be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6(d)(iii) below.

5. Termination.

(a) At-Will Employment. The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and shall continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law. This means that it is not for any specified period of time and can be terminated by Executive or by the Company at any time, with or without advance notice, and for any or no particular reason or cause. It also means that Executive’s job duties, title, and responsibility and reporting level, work schedule, compensation, and benefits, as well as the Company’s personnel policies and procedures, may be changed with prospective effect, with or without notice, at any time in the sole discretion of the Company (subject to any ramification such changes may have under Section 6 of this Agreement). This “at-will” nature of Executive’s employment shall remain unchanged during Executive’s tenure as an employee and may not be changed, except in an express writing signed by Executive and the CEO. If Executive’s employment terminates for any lawful reason, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, Equity Awards or other compensation other than as provided in this Agreement.

(b) Notice of Termination. During the Term of Employment, any termination of Executive’s employment by the Company or by Executive (other than by reason of death) shall be communicated by written notice (a “Notice of Termination”) from one Party hereto to the other Party hereto (i) indicating the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, if any, (ii) setting forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated and (iii) specifying the date of the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (the “Date of Termination”). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder. The failure by Executive to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Good Reason shall not waive any right of Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

 

3


(c) Deemed Resignation. Upon termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from all offices and board memberships, if any, then held with the Company or any of its affiliates, and, at the Company’s request, Executive shall execute such documents as are necessary or desirable to effectuate such resignations.

6. Consequences of Termination.

(a) Release. In the event Executive’s employment with the Company terminates pursuant to Section 5, then Executive shall be entitled to the applicable payments and benefits set forth below subject to Executive delivering to the Company a waiver and release of claims agreement in standard reasonable form approved by the Company that becomes effective and irrevocable in accordance with Section 7 hereof (a “Release”).

(b) Payments upon Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason. Upon a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause, Executive (or Executive’s estate or legal representative, as applicable) shall be entitled to receive, within thirty (30) days of the effective date of termination of employment with the Company (whether such termination of employment is effected by the Company or Executive) (or such earlier date as may be required by applicable law): (i) any portion of Executive’s Annual Base Salary earned through Executive’s Date of Termination not theretofore paid; (ii) any reimbursement of expenses owed to Executive under Section 3(e) above; and (iii) any accrued but unused paid time-off owed to Executive ((i)-(iii) defined as the “Accrued Obligations”). In the event Executive is terminated by the Company for Cause, Executive shall forfeit, effective as of the date Executive engages in such conduct giving rise to his termination for Cause, all unexercised, unearned and/or unpaid Equity Awards, including without limitation, Equity Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing. Any termination of employment by Executive without Good Reason shall be deemed, and shall be treated as, a termination for “Cause”, and accordingly, the Company shall only be obligated to pay to Executive the amounts described in this Section 6(b).

(c) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination Outside a Change in Control Period. If, outside a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) twelve months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s target Annual Bonus, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Executive’s Date of Termination;

(iii) fifty percent (50%) of the unvested Equity Awards held by the Executive as of the Date of Termination will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

 

4


(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the six-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder (“COBRA”), the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, coverage under its group health plan (if any) at the same coverage levels in effect on the Date of Termination (“Benefits Coverage”); provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(d) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination During a Change in Control Period. If, during a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) eighteen months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s target Annual Bonus;

(iii) one hundred percent (100%) of all unvested Equity Awards held by Executive as of the Date of Termination, will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the first anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under COBRA, the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, the Benefits Coverage; provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

 

5


(e) No Other Severance. The provisions of this Section 6 shall supersede in their entirety any severance payment provisions in any severance plan, policy, program, or other arrangement maintained by the Company except for such additional benefits otherwise approved by the Board or Compensation Committee of the Board after the date hereof.

(f) No Requirement to Mitigate; Survival. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the termination of Executive’s employment shall not impair the rights or obligations of any Party.

7. Release. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any payments or other benefits due under this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment are subject to Executive’s execution and delivery of a Release, (a) the Company shall deliver the Release to Executive within ten (10) business days following Executive’s Date of Termination, and the Company’s failure to deliver a Release prior to the expiration of such ten (10) business day period shall constitute a waiver of any requirement to execute a Release, (b) if Executive fails to execute the Release on or prior to the Release Expiration Date (as defined below) or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of the Release thereafter, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release, and (c) in any case where Executive’s Date of Termination and the Release Expiration Date fall in two separate taxable years, any payments required to be made to Executive that are conditioned on the Release and are treated as nonqualified deferred compensation for purposes of Section 409A (as defined below) shall be made in the later taxable year. For purposes of this Section 7, “Release Expiration Date” shall mean the date that is twenty-one (21) days following the date upon which the Company timely delivers the Release to Executive, or, in the event that Executive’s termination of employment is “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967), the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery date. To the extent that any payments of nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A (as defined below)) due under this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment are delayed pursuant to this Section 7, such amounts shall be paid in a lump sum on the first payroll date following the date that Executive executes and does not revoke the Release (and the applicable revocation period has expired) or, in the case of any payments subject to Section 7(c), on the first payroll period to occur in the subsequent taxable year, if later.

8. Non-Solicitation of Employees. For a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall not, either directly or indirectly (a) solicit for employment through any individual, corporation, firm, or other business, any employees, consultants, independent contractors, or other service providers of the Company or any of its affiliates, or (b) solicit any employee, consultant or other service provider of the Company or any of its affiliates to leave the employment or consulting of or cease providing services to the Company or any of its affiliates; provided, however, that the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) shall not apply to inbound inquiries or any general advertisement or solicitation (or any hiring pursuant to such advertisement or solicitation) that is not specifically targeted to such employees, consultants or other service providers.

 

6


9. Golden Parachute Excise Tax.

(a) Best Pay. Any provision of this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment or benefit Executive would receive from the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payment”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this sentence, be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such Payment will be equal to the Reduced Amount (as defined below). The “Reduced Amount” will be either (A) the largest portion of the Payment that would result in no portion of the Payment (after reduction) being subject to the Excise Tax or (B) the entire Payment, whichever amount after taking into account all applicable federal, state, and local employment taxes, income taxes, and the Excise Tax (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from a deduction of such state and local taxes), results in Executive’ s receipt, on an after-tax basis, of the greater economic benefit notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Payment may be subject to the Excise Tax. If a reduction in a Payment is required pursuant to the preceding sentence and the Reduced Amount is determined pursuant to clause (A) of the preceding sentence, the reduction shall occur in the manner (the “Reduction Method”) that results in the greatest economic benefit for Executive. If more than one method of reduction will result in the same economic benefit, the items so reduced will be reduced pro rata (the “Pro Rata Reduction Method”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Reduction Method or the Pro Rata Reduction Method would result in any portion of the Payment being subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A (as defined below) that would not otherwise be subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A, then the Reduction Method and/or the Pro Rata Reduction Method, as the case may be, shall be modified so as to avoid the imposition of taxes pursuant to Section 409A as follows: (1) as a first priority, the modification shall preserve to the greatest extent possible, the greatest economic benefit for Executive as determined on an after-tax basis; (2) as a second priority, Payments that are contingent on future events (e.g., being terminated without cause), shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not contingent on future events; and (3) as a third priority, Payments that are “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A.

(b) Accounting Firm. The accounting firm engaged by the Company for general tax purposes as of the day prior to the Change in Control will perform the calculations set forth in Section 9(a) above. If the firm so engaged by the Company is serving as the accountant or auditor for the Acquiring Company, the Company will appoint a nationally recognized accounting firm to make the determinations required hereunder. The Company will bear all expenses with respect to the determinations by such firm required to be made hereunder. The accounting firm engaged to make the determinations hereunder will provide its calculations, together with detailed supporting documentation, to the Company within thirty (30) days before the consummation of a Change in Control (if requested at that time by the Company) or such other time as requested by the Company. If the accounting firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable with respect to a Payment, either before or after the application of the Reduced Amount, it will furnish the Company with documentation reasonably acceptable to the Company that no Excise Tax will be imposed with respect to such Payment. Any good faith determinations of the accounting firm made hereunder will be final, binding and conclusive upon the Company and Executive.

 

7


10. Section 409A.

(a) General. The intent of the Parties is that the payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date, (“Section 409A”) and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted to be in compliance therewith. If Executive notifies the Company that Executive has received advice of tax counsel of a national reputation with expertise in Section 409A that any provision of this Agreement would cause Executive to incur any additional tax or interest under Section 409A (with specificity as to the reason therefor) or the Company independently makes such determination, the Company and Executive shall take commercially reasonable efforts to reform such provision to try to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A through good faith modifications to the minimum extent reasonably appropriate to conform with Section 409A, provided that any such modifications shall not increase the cost or liability to the Company. To the extent that any provision hereof is modified in order to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A, such modification shall be made in good faith and shall, to the maximum extent reasonably possible, maintain the original intent and economic benefit to Executive and the Company of the applicable provision without violating the provisions of Section 409A.

(b) Separation from Service. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Agreement: (i) no amount that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A shall be payable pursuant to Section 6(c) or Section 6(d) above unless the termination of Executive’s employment constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Department of Treasury Regulations (“Separation from Service”); (ii) for purposes of Section 409A, Executive’s right to receive installment payments shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments; and (iii) to the extent that any reimbursement of expenses or in-kind benefits constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A, such reimbursement or benefit shall be provided no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the expense was incurred. The amount of expenses reimbursed in one year shall not affect the amount eligible for reimbursement in any subsequent year. The amount of any in-kind benefits provided in one year shall not affect the amount of in-kind benefits provided in any other year.

(c) Specified Employee. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if Executive is deemed by the Company at the time of Executive’s Separation from Service to be a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A, to the extent delayed commencement of any portion of the benefits to which Executive is entitled under this Agreement is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Section 409A, such portion of Executive’s benefits shall not be provided to Executive prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6)-month period measured from the date of Executive’s Separation from Service with the Company or (ii) the date of Executive’s death. Upon the first business day following the expiration of the applicable Section 409A period, all payments deferred pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries), and any remaining payments due to Executive under this Agreement shall be paid as otherwise provided herein.

 

8


11. Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement any federal, state, local, or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which the Company is required to withhold. The Company shall be entitled to rely on an opinion of counsel if any questions as to the amount or requirement of withholding shall arise.

12. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) Prior Employment. Executive represents and warrants that Executive’s acceptance of employment with the Company has not breached, and the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder will not breach, any duty owed by Executive to any prior employer or other person. Executive further represents and warrants to the Company that: (a) the performance of Executive’s obligations hereunder will not violate any agreement between Executive and any other person, firm, organization, or other entity; (b) Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party to refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or other party that would be violated by Executive entering into this Agreement and/or providing services to the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; and (c) Executive’s performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement will not require Executive to, and Executive shall not, rely on in the performance of Executive’s duties or disclose to the Company or any other person or entity or induce the Company in any way to use or rely on any trade secret or other confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer of Executive.

(b) Assignment and Successors. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor to all or substantially all of the business or the assets of the Company (by merger or otherwise). This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, Executive, and their respective successors, assigns, personnel, and legal representatives, executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees, as applicable. None of Executive’s rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred by Executive, other than Executive’s rights to payments hereunder, which may be transferred only by will, operation of law, or as otherwise provided herein.

(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, construed, interpreted, and enforced in accordance with its express terms, and otherwise in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of California, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law, whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction, and where applicable, the laws of the United States, that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction.

(d) Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

(e) Amendments; Waivers. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. By an instrument in writing similarly executed, Executive or a duly authorized officer of the Company, as applicable, may waive compliance by the other Party with any specifically identified provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is

 

9


obligated to comply with or perform; provided, however, that such waiver shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any other or subsequent failure. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right, remedy, or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy, or power provided herein or by law or in equity.

(f) Dispute Resolution. Executive agrees that if any disputes should arise between Executive and the Company (including claims against its employees, officers, directors, shareholders, agents, successors, and assigns) relating or pertaining to or arising out of Executive’s employment with the Company, the dispute will be submitted exclusively to binding arbitration before a neutral arbitrator mutually selected by the Company and Executive. This means that disputes will be decided by an arbitrator rather than a court or jury, and that both Executive and the Company waive their respective rights to a court or jury trial. Judgment on the arbitration award may be entered in any court having jurisdiction. Nothing herein shall prevent either Party from pursuing injunctive relief in court (without having to post a bond) to avoid irreparable harm pending completion of any arbitration. Within twenty (20) days of the conclusion of the arbitration hearing, the arbitrator shall prepare written findings of fact and conclusions of law. Each party shall bear its own costs and attorneys’ fees in connection with arbitration; provided that the Company shall pay all costs unique to arbitration, including the arbitrator’s fees and costs, that Executive would not be required to pay if the claim was in court. Executive shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs incurred by Executive in any arbitration Executive initiates to enforce Executive’s rights under this Agreement and in which Executive is deemed to be the prevailing party.

(g) Enforcement. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable under present or future laws, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision had never comprised a portion of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement. Furthermore, in lieu of such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision there shall be added automatically as part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable.

(h) Entire Agreement. The terms of this Agreement are intended by the Parties to be the final expression of their agreement with respect to the employment of Executive by the Company and supersede all prior understandings and agreements, whether written or oral, regarding Executive’s employment with the Company. The Parties further intend that this Agreement shall constitute the complete and exclusive statement of their terms and that no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may be introduced in any judicial, administrative, or other legal proceeding to vary the terms of this Agreement.

(i) Prior Agreement. This Agreement supersedes the Prior Agreement and all prior or contemporaneous agreements and statements, whether written or oral, concerning the terms of Executive’s employment with the Company.

 

10


(j) Employee Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges that Executive has read and understands this Agreement, is fully aware of its legal effect, has not acted in reliance upon any representations or promises made by the Company other than those contained in writing herein, and has entered into this Agreement freely based on Executive’s own judgment.

(k) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same Agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile shall be deemed effective for all purposes.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

11


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris

Name: Todd Harris
Title: Chief Executive Officer and President
EXECUTIVE
By:  

/s/ Daniel Bensen

Name: Daniel Bensen
Address:

 

 

[Signature Page to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement]


APPENDIX I

DEFINITIONS

All defined terms used in this Appendix I that are not otherwise defined in this Appendix I shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Amended and Restated Employment Agreement to which this Appendix I relates.

Acquiring Company” shall mean the resulting or surviving corporation, or the company issuing cash or securities (or its ultimate parent company), in a merger consolidation, tender offer or share exchange involving the Company, or the successor corporation to the Company (whether in any such transaction or otherwise).

Cause” shall mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following events or conditions:

(i) any material failure on the part of Executive (other than by reason of Disability of Executive) to faithfully and professionally carry out Executive’s duties which failure continues for ten (10) days after written notice detailing such failure is delivered to Executive by the Company;

(ii) Executive’s dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of the Company;

(iii) Executive’s conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony.

(iv) Executive’s insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Executive to perform the same;

(v) Executive’s material breach of any written agreement with the Company or any of its affiliates or material violation of the Company’s Code of Conduct or any other material written policy of the Company; or

(vi) Any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Executive.

Change in Control” shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events or circumstances:

(i) any “person” (within the meaning of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)), including a “group” within the meaning of such Section 13(d) but excluding the Company and any of its subsidiaries and any employee benefit plan sponsored or maintained by the Company or any subsidiary thereof, shall become the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing fifty percent (50%) or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (“Company Voting Securities”);


(ii) the consummation of a merger or consolidation involving the Company, or the acceptance by the stockholders of the Company of equity securities in a share exchange, where the Persons who were the beneficial owners of the Company Voting Securities outstanding immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or share exchange, do not beneficially own, directly or indirectly, immediately after such merger, consolidation or share exchange, securities representing more than fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power of the then-outstanding Company Voting Securities or voting securities of the Acquiring Company in such merger, consolidation or share exchange, in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or share exchange;

(iii) a sale, exchange or other disposition or transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company; provided, however, that a Change in Control shall not be deemed to have occurred where: (x) the Company sells, exchanges or otherwise disposes or transfers all or substantially all of its assets to another Person which is beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, immediately following such transaction by the holders of Company Voting Securities in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such transaction; and (y) such Person expressly assumes this Agreement; or

(iv) such time as the Continuing Directors (as defined below) do not constitute at least a majority of the Board (or, if applicable, the board of directors of a successor to the Company), where the term “Continuing Director” means at any date a member of the Board who was: (x) a member of the Board on the Effective Date; or (y) nominated or elected subsequent to the Effective Date by at least a majority of the directors who were Continuing Directors at the time of such nomination or election or whose election to the Board was recommended or endorsed by at least a majority of the directors who were Continuing Directors at the time of such nomination or election (it being understood that no individual whose initial assumption of office occurred as a result of an actual or threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board shall be a Continuing Director).

Change in Control Period” shall mean the period commencing three (3) months prior to a Change in Control and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary of the Change in Control.

Disability” shall mean permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

Good Reason” shall mean any one of the following: (i) the material reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in your Annual Base Salary); (ii) a material reduction of Executive’s duties and responsibilities from those in effect on the Effective Date; (iii) the Company’s material breach of this Agreement (other than a reduction of your Annual Base Salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in your Annual Base Salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Executive’s principal place of employment that increases Executive’s


one-way commute by more than thirty-five (35) miles, provided, that, in each case, Executive will not be deemed to have Good Reason unless (A)Executive first provides the Board with written notice of the condition giving rise to Good Reason within thirty (30)days of its initial occurrence, (B)the Company or the successor company fails to cure such condition within ten (10)days after receiving such written notice (the “Cure Period”), and (C)Executive’s resignation based on such Good Reason is effective within thirty (30)days after the expiration of the Cure Period.

Involuntary Termination” shall mean Executive’s termination (A) by the Company without Cause, (B) by Executive for Good Reason, (C) due to death or (D) due to Disability.

Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, or other business entity.

EX-10.7

Exhibit 10.7

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into this 16th day of April, 2021 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Esther van den Boom (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”). Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have those meanings set forth in Appendix I hereto.

WHEREAS, the Company desires to retain the services of Executive by engaging Executive to perform services as an employee of the Company under the terms hereof; and

WHEREAS, Executive desires to provide services to the Company on the terms hereof.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, including the respective covenants and agreements set forth below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Employment.

(a) General. The Company shall employ Executive upon the terms and conditions provided herein effective as of the Effective Date.

(b) Position and Duties. Effective on the Effective Date, Executive shall serve as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, on a 50% capacity basis, with responsibilities, duties, and authority usual and customary for such position subject to direction by the Chief Executive Officer (the “CEO”). During Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive shall report directly to the CEO and agrees promptly and faithfully to comply with all present and future policies, requirements, rules and regulations, and reasonable directions and requests, of the Company in connection with the Company’s business. Executive will at all times perform all of the duties and obligations required by Executive under this Agreement in a loyal and conscientious manner and to the best of Executive’s ability and experience.

(c) Performance of Executive’s Duties. During Executive’s employment with the Company, and except for periods of illness, vacation, Disability, or excused leaves of absence, Executive shall devote Executive’s full time and attention to the business and affairs of the Company pursuant to the general direction of the CEO; provided that nothing herein shall preclude Executive from, subject to prior consent of the CEO: (i) engaging in additional activities in connection with personal investments and community affairs including service on non-profit boards of directors; (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors for for-profit organizations that are not competitors of the Company; and (iii) serving as an advisor, or as a member of an advisory board of organizations that are not competitors of the Company; provided such activities do not individually or in the aggregate interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement, violate the Company’s standards of conduct then in effect or raise a conflict under the Company’s conflict of interest policies.

 


2. Term. The period of Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and shall continue until Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated. The phrase “Term of Employment” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the entire period of employment of Executive by the Company.

3. Compensation and Related Matters.

(a) Annual Base Salary. Executive shall receive a base salary at the rate of $343,000 per annum (as may be increased from time to time, the “Annual Base Salary”), subject to withholdings and deductions and as adjusted for part time status, which shall be paid to Executive in accordance with the customary payroll practices and procedures of the Company. Such Annual Base Salary shall be reviewed by the CEO, and as applicable, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”), not less than annually, and may be increased, but not decreased, in connection with any such review.

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible to receive a discretionary annual bonus based on Executive’s achievement of performance objectives as mutually agreed between Executive and the CEO, such bonus target to be equal to 30% of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (the “Annual Bonus”). Any Annual Bonus earned will be paid at the same time annual bonuses are paid to other executives of the Company generally, subject to any limitations on payment as set forth in Section 6.

(c) Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee and executive benefit plans and programs as the Company may offer from time to time to provide to its executives, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein is intended, or shall be construed, to require the Company to institute or continue any, or any particular, plan, or benefits.

(d) Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket travel and other business expenses incurred by Executive in the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company in accordance with the Company’s applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures as are in effect from time to time. The Company will also cover the expense of travel, room and board when working from Company headquarters in Carlsbad, CA.

(e) Vacation. Executive will be entitled to not less than fifteen (15) business days of paid vacation each calendar year, pro-rated for partial calendar years of service, which may be taken in accordance with the Company’s vacation policy.

(f) Equity Awards. Executive shall be eligible to receive grants of equity awards in the Company’s sole discretion.

(g) Indemnification Agreement; Insurance. As an officer of the Company, Executive shall be entitled to enter into the Company’s standard indemnification agreement. Executive will also be covered under a directors and officers liability insurance policy paid for by the Company for so long as Executive serves as an officer of the Company.

 

2


4. Acceleration of Equity Awards Upon a Change in Control. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of a Change in Control, the vesting of Executive’s then outstanding options, restricted stock and other equity awards covering shares of the Company’s common stock (collectively, “Equity Awards”) shall accelerate as of immediately prior to such Change in Control with respect to fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to such Equity Awards. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to Executive’s Equity Awards shall continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the Change in Control, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Executive’s Equity Awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the Change in Control shall thereupon vest in full, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through such first anniversary. Notwithstanding the foregoing and for the avoidance of doubt, any shares subject to Equity Awards that do not accelerate immediately prior to the Change in Control in accordance with the foregoing shall be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6(d)(iii) below.

5. Termination.

(a) At-Will Employment. The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and shall continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law. This means that it is not for any specified period of time and can be terminated by Executive or by the Company at any time, with or without advance notice, and for any or no particular reason or cause. It also means that Executive’s job duties, title, and responsibility and reporting level, work schedule, compensation, and benefits, as well as the Company’s personnel policies and procedures, may be changed with prospective effect, with or without notice, at any time in the sole discretion of the Company (subject to any ramification such changes may have under Section 6 of this Agreement). This “at-will” nature of Executive’s employment shall remain unchanged during Executive’s tenure as an employee and may not be changed, except in an express writing signed by Executive and the CEO. If Executive’s employment terminates for any lawful reason, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, Equity Awards or other compensation other than as provided in this Agreement.

(b) Notice of Termination. During the Term of Employment, any termination of Executive’s employment by the Company or by Executive (other than by reason of death) shall be communicated by written notice (a “Notice of Termination”) from one Party hereto to the other Party hereto (i) indicating the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, if any, (ii) setting forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated and (iii) specifying the date of the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (the “Date of Termination”). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder. The failure by Executive to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Good Reason shall not waive any right of Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

 

3


(c) Deemed Resignation. Upon termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from all offices and board memberships, if any, then held with the Company or any of its affiliates, and, at the Company’s request, Executive shall execute such documents as are necessary or desirable to effectuate such resignations.

6. Consequences of Termination.

(a) Release. In the event Executive’s employment with the Company terminates pursuant to Section 5, then Executive shall be entitled to the applicable payments and benefits set forth below subject to Executive delivering to the Company a waiver and release of claims agreement in standard reasonable form approved by the Company that becomes effective and irrevocable in accordance with Section 7 hereof (a “Release”).

(b) Payments upon Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason. Upon a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause, Executive (or Executive’s estate or legal representative, as applicable) shall be entitled to receive, within thirty (30) days of the effective date of termination of employment with the Company (whether such termination of employment is effected by the Company or Executive) (or such earlier date as may be required by applicable law): (i) any portion of Executive’s Annual Base Salary earned through Executive’s Date of Termination not theretofore paid; (ii) any reimbursement of expenses owed to Executive under Section 3(e) above; and (iii) any accrued but unused paid time-off owed to Executive ((i)-(iii) defined as the “Accrued Obligations”). In the event Executive is terminated by the Company for Cause, Executive shall forfeit, effective as of the date Executive engages in such conduct giving rise to his termination for Cause, all unexercised, unearned and/or unpaid Equity Awards, including without limitation, Equity Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing. Any termination of employment by Executive without Good Reason shall be deemed, and shall be treated as, a termination for “Cause”, and accordingly, the Company shall only be obligated to pay to Executive the amounts described in this Section 6(b).

(c) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination Outside a Change in Control Period. If, outside a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) twelve months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s target Annual Bonus, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Executive’s Date of Termination;

(iii) fifty percent (50%) of the unvested Equity Awards held by the Executive as of the Date of Termination will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

 

4


(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the six-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder (“COBRA”), the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, coverage under its group health plan (if any) at the same coverage levels in effect on the Date of Termination (“Benefits Coverage”); provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(d) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination During a Change in Control Period. If, during a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) eighteen months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s target Annual Bonus;

(iii) one hundred percent (100%) of all unvested Equity Awards held by Executive as of the Date of Termination, will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the first anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under COBRA, the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, the Benefits Coverage; provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

 

5


(e) No Other Severance. The provisions of this Section 6 shall supersede in their entirety any severance payment provisions in any severance plan, policy, program, or other arrangement maintained by the Company except for such additional benefits otherwise approved by the Board or Compensation Committee of the Board after the date hereof.

(f) No Requirement to Mitigate; Survival. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the termination of Executive’s employment shall not impair the rights or obligations of any Party.

7. Release. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any payments or other benefits due under this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment are subject to Executive’s execution and delivery of a Release, (a) the Company shall deliver the Release to Executive within ten (10) business days following Executive’s Date of Termination, and the Company’s failure to deliver a Release prior to the expiration of such ten (10) business day period shall constitute a waiver of any requirement to execute a Release, (b) if Executive fails to execute the Release on or prior to the Release Expiration Date (as defined below) or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of the Release thereafter, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release, and (c) in any case where Executive’s Date of Termination and the Release Expiration Date fall in two separate taxable years, any payments required to be made to Executive that are conditioned on the Release and are treated as nonqualified deferred compensation for purposes of Section 409A (as defined below) shall be made in the later taxable year. For purposes of this Section 7, “Release Expiration Date” shall mean the date that is twenty-one (21) days following the date upon which the Company timely delivers the Release to Executive, or, in the event that Executive’s termination of employment is “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967), the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery date. To the extent that any payments of nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A (as defined below)) due under this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment are delayed pursuant to this Section 7, such amounts shall be paid in a lump sum on the first payroll date following the date that Executive executes and does not revoke the Release (and the applicable revocation period has expired) or, in the case of any payments subject to Section 7(c), on the first payroll period to occur in the subsequent taxable year, if later.

8. Non-Solicitation of Employees. For a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall not, either directly or indirectly (a) solicit for employment through any individual, corporation, firm, or other business, any employees, consultants, independent contractors, or other service providers of the Company or any of its affiliates, or (b) solicit any employee, consultant or other service provider of the Company or any of its affiliates to leave the employment or consulting of or cease providing services to the Company or any of its affiliates; provided, however, that the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) shall not apply to inbound inquiries or any general advertisement or solicitation (or any hiring pursuant to such advertisement or solicitation) that is not specifically targeted to such employees, consultants or other service providers.

 

6


9. Golden Parachute Excise Tax.

(a) Best Pay. Any provision of this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment or benefit Executive would receive from the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payment”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this sentence, be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such Payment will be equal to the Reduced Amount (as defined below). The “Reduced Amount” will be either (A) the largest portion of the Payment that would result in no portion of the Payment (after reduction) being subject to the Excise Tax or (B) the entire Payment, whichever amount after taking into account all applicable federal, state, and local employment taxes, income taxes, and the Excise Tax (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from a deduction of such state and local taxes), results in Executive’ s receipt, on an after-tax basis, of the greater economic benefit notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Payment may be subject to the Excise Tax. If a reduction in a Payment is required pursuant to the preceding sentence and the Reduced Amount is determined pursuant to clause (A) of the preceding sentence, the reduction shall occur in the manner (the “Reduction Method”) that results in the greatest economic benefit for Executive. If more than one method of reduction will result in the same economic benefit, the items so reduced will be reduced pro rata (the “Pro Rata Reduction Method”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Reduction Method or the Pro Rata Reduction Method would result in any portion of the Payment being subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A (as defined below) that would not otherwise be subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A, then the Reduction Method and/or the Pro Rata Reduction Method, as the case may be, shall be modified so as to avoid the imposition of taxes pursuant to Section 409A as follows: (1) as a first priority, the modification shall preserve to the greatest extent possible, the greatest economic benefit for Executive as determined on an after-tax basis; (2) as a second priority, Payments that are contingent on future events (e.g., being terminated without cause), shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not contingent on future events; and (3) as a third priority, Payments that are “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A.

(b) Accounting Firm. The accounting firm engaged by the Company for general tax purposes as of the day prior to the Change in Control will perform the calculations set forth in Section 9(a) above. If the firm so engaged by the Company is serving as the accountant or auditor for the Acquiring Company, the Company will appoint a nationally recognized accounting firm to make the determinations required hereunder. The Company will bear all expenses with respect to the determinations by such firm required to be made hereunder. The accounting firm engaged to make the determinations hereunder will provide its calculations, together with detailed supporting documentation, to the Company within thirty (30) days before the consummation of a Change in Control (if requested at that time by the Company) or such other time as requested by the Company. If the accounting firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable with respect to a Payment, either before or after the application of the Reduced Amount, it will furnish the Company with documentation reasonably acceptable to the Company that no Excise Tax will be imposed with respect to such Payment. Any good faith determinations of the accounting firm made hereunder will be final, binding and conclusive upon the Company and Executive.

 

7


10. Section 409A.

(a) General. The intent of the Parties is that the payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date, (“Section 409A”) and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted to be in compliance therewith. If Executive notifies the Company that Executive has received advice of tax counsel of a national reputation with expertise in Section 409A that any provision of this Agreement would cause Executive to incur any additional tax or interest under Section 409A (with specificity as to the reason therefor) or the Company independently makes such determination, the Company and Executive shall take commercially reasonable efforts to reform such provision to try to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A through good faith modifications to the minimum extent reasonably appropriate to conform with Section 409A, provided that any such modifications shall not increase the cost or liability to the Company. To the extent that any provision hereof is modified in order to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A, such modification shall be made in good faith and shall, to the maximum extent reasonably possible, maintain the original intent and economic benefit to Executive and the Company of the applicable provision without violating the provisions of Section 409A.

(b) Separation from Service. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Agreement: (i) no amount that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A shall be payable pursuant to Section 6(c) or Section 6(d) above unless the termination of Executive’s employment constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Department of Treasury Regulations (“Separation from Service”); (ii) for purposes of Section 409A, Executive’s right to receive installment payments shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments; and (iii) to the extent that any reimbursement of expenses or in-kind benefits constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A, such reimbursement or benefit shall be provided no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the expense was incurred. The amount of expenses reimbursed in one year shall not affect the amount eligible for reimbursement in any subsequent year. The amount of any in-kind benefits provided in one year shall not affect the amount of in-kind benefits provided in any other year.

(c) Specified Employee. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if Executive is deemed by the Company at the time of Executive’s Separation from Service to be a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A, to the extent delayed commencement of any portion of the benefits to which Executive is entitled under this Agreement is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Section 409A, such portion of Executive’s benefits shall not be provided to Executive prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6)-month period measured from the date of Executive’s Separation from Service with the Company or (ii) the date of Executive’s death. Upon the first business day following the expiration of the applicable Section 409A period, all payments deferred pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries), and any remaining payments due to Executive under this Agreement shall be paid as otherwise provided herein.

 

8


11. Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement any federal, state, local, or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which the Company is required to withhold. The Company shall be entitled to rely on an opinion of counsel if any questions as to the amount or requirement of withholding shall arise.

12. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) Prior Employment. Executive represents and warrants that Executive’s acceptance of employment with the Company has not breached, and the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder will not breach, any duty owed by Executive to any prior employer or other person. Executive further represents and warrants to the Company that: (a) the performance of Executive’s obligations hereunder will not violate any agreement between Executive and any other person, firm, organization, or other entity; (b) Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party to refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or other party that would be violated by Executive entering into this Agreement and/or providing services to the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; and (c) Executive’s performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement will not require Executive to, and Executive shall not, rely on in the performance of Executive’s duties or disclose to the Company or any other person or entity or induce the Company in any way to use or rely on any trade secret or other confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer of Executive.

(b) Assignment and Successors. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor to all or substantially all of the business or the assets of the Company (by merger or otherwise). This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, Executive, and their respective successors, assigns, personnel, and legal representatives, executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees, as applicable. None of Executive’s rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred by Executive, other than Executive’s rights to payments hereunder, which may be transferred only by will, operation of law, or as otherwise provided herein.

(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, construed, interpreted, and enforced in accordance with its express terms, and otherwise in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of California, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law, whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction, and where applicable, the laws of the United States, that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction.

(d) Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

 

9


(e) Amendments; Waivers. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. By an instrument in writing similarly executed, Executive or a duly authorized officer of the Company, as applicable, may waive compliance by the other Party with any specifically identified provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is obligated to comply with or perform; provided, however, that such waiver shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any other or subsequent failure. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right, remedy, or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy, or power provided herein or by law or in equity.

(f) Dispute Resolution. Executive agrees that if any disputes should arise between Executive and the Company (including claims against its employees, officers, directors, shareholders, agents, successors, and assigns) relating or pertaining to or arising out of Executive’s employment with the Company, the dispute will be submitted exclusively to binding arbitration before a neutral arbitrator mutually selected by the Company and Executive. This means that disputes will be decided by an arbitrator rather than a court or jury, and that both Executive and the Company waive their respective rights to a court or jury trial. Judgment on the arbitration award may be entered in any court having jurisdiction. Nothing herein shall prevent either Party from pursuing injunctive relief in court (without having to post a bond) to avoid irreparable harm pending completion of any arbitration. Within twenty (20) days of the conclusion of the arbitration hearing, the arbitrator shall prepare written findings of fact and conclusions of law. Each party shall bear its own costs and attorneys’ fees in connection with arbitration; provided that the Company shall pay all costs unique to arbitration, including the arbitrator’s fees and costs, that Executive would not be required to pay if the claim was in court. Executive shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs incurred by Executive in any arbitration Executive initiates to enforce Executive’s rights under this Agreement and in which Executive is deemed to be the prevailing party.

(g) Enforcement. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable under present or future laws, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision had never comprised a portion of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement. Furthermore, in lieu of such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision there shall be added automatically as part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable.

(h) Entire Agreement. The terms of this Agreement are intended by the Parties to be the final expression of their agreement with respect to the employment of Executive by the Company and supersede all prior understandings and agreements, whether written or oral, regarding Executive’s employment with the Company. The Parties further intend that this Agreement shall constitute the complete and exclusive statement of their terms and that no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may be introduced in any judicial, administrative, or other legal proceeding to vary the terms of this Agreement.

 

10


(i) Employee Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges that Executive has read and understands this Agreement, is fully aware of its legal effect, has not acted in reliance upon any representations or promises made by the Company other than those contained in writing herein, and has entered into this Agreement freely based on Executive’s own judgment.

(j) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same Agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile shall be deemed effective for all purposes.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

 

11


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris

Name:   Todd Harris
Title:   Chief Executive Officer and President
EXECUTIVE
By:  

/s/ Esther van den Boom

Name:   Esther van den Boom
Address:

[Signature Page to Employment Agreement]


APPENDIX I

DEFINITIONS

All defined terms used in this Appendix I that are not otherwise defined in this Appendix I shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Employment Agreement to which this Appendix I relates.

Acquiring Company” shall mean the resulting or surviving corporation, or the company issuing cash or securities (or its ultimate parent company), in a merger consolidation, tender offer or share exchange involving the Company, or the successor corporation to the Company (whether in any such transaction or otherwise).

Cause” shall mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following events or conditions:

(i) any material failure on the part of Executive (other than by reason of Disability of Executive) to faithfully and professionally carry out Executive’s duties which failure continues for ten (10) days after written notice detailing such failure is delivered to Executive by the Company;

(ii) Executive’s dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of the Company;

(iii) Executive’s conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony.

(iv) Executive’s insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Executive to perform the same;

(v) Executive’s material breach of any written agreement with the Company or any of its affiliates or material violation of the Company’s Code of Conduct or any other material written policy of the Company; or

(vi) Any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Executive.

Change in Control” shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events or circumstances:

(i) any “person” (within the meaning of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)), including a “group” within the meaning of such Section 13(d) but excluding the Company and any of its subsidiaries and any employee benefit plan sponsored or maintained by the Company or any subsidiary thereof, shall become the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing fifty percent (50%) or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (“Company Voting Securities”);


(ii) the consummation of a merger or consolidation involving the Company, or the acceptance by the stockholders of the Company of equity securities in a share exchange, where the Persons who were the beneficial owners of the Company Voting Securities outstanding immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or share exchange, do not beneficially own, directly or indirectly, immediately after such merger, consolidation or share exchange, securities representing more than fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power of the then-outstanding Company Voting Securities or voting securities of the Acquiring Company in such merger, consolidation or share exchange, in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or share exchange;

(iii) a sale, exchange or other disposition or transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company; provided, however, that a Change in Control shall not be deemed to have occurred where: (x) the Company sells, exchanges or otherwise disposes or transfers all or substantially all of its assets to another Person which is beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, immediately following such transaction by the holders of Company Voting Securities in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such transaction; and (y) such Person expressly assumes this Agreement; or

(iv) such time as the Continuing Directors (as defined below) do not constitute at least a majority of the Board (or, if applicable, the board of directors of a successor to the Company), where the term “Continuing Director” means at any date a member of the Board who was: (x) a member of the Board on the Effective Date; or (y) nominated or elected subsequent to the Effective Date by at least a majority of the directors who were Continuing Directors at the time of such nomination or election or whose election to the Board was recommended or endorsed by at least a majority of the directors who were Continuing Directors at the time of such nomination or election (it being understood that no individual whose initial assumption of office occurred as a result of an actual or threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board shall be a Continuing Director).

Change in Control Period” shall mean the period commencing three (3) months prior to a Change in Control and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary of the Change in Control.

Disability” shall mean permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

Good Reason” shall mean any one of the following: (i) the material reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in your Annual Base Salary); (ii) a material reduction of Executive’s duties and responsibilities from those in effect on the Effective Date; (iii) the Company’s material breach of this Agreement (other than a reduction of your Annual Base Salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in your Annual Base Salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Executive’s principal place of employment that increases Executive’s


one-way commute by more than thirty-five (35) miles, provided, that, in each case, Executive will not be deemed to have Good Reason unless (A)Executive first provides the Board with written notice of the condition giving rise to Good Reason within thirty (30)days of its initial occurrence, (B)the Company or the successor company fails to cure such condition within ten (10)days after receiving such written notice (the “Cure Period”), and (C)Executive’s resignation based on such Good Reason is effective within thirty (30)days after the expiration of the Cure Period.

Involuntary Termination” shall mean Executive’s termination (A) by the Company without Cause, (B) by Executive for Good Reason, (C) due to death or (D) due to Disability.

Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, or other business entity.

EX-10.8

Exhibit 10.8

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into this 16th day of January, 2020 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Ronald Swanson (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”). Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have those meanings set forth in Appendix I hereto.

WHEREAS, the Company desires to retain the services of Executive by engaging Executive to perform services as an employee of the Company under the terms hereof; and

WHEREAS, Executive desires to provide services to the Company on the terms hereof.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, including the respective covenants and agreements set forth below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Employment.

(a) General. The Company shall employ Executive upon the terms and conditions provided herein effective as of the Effective Date.

(b) Position and Duties. Effective on the Effective Date, Executive shall serve as the Company’s Chief Scientific Officer, with responsibilities, duties, and authority usual and customary for such position subject to direction by the Chief Executive Officer (the “CEO”). During Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive shall report directly to the CEO and agrees promptly and faithfully to comply with all present and future policies, requirements, rules and regulations, and reasonable directions and requests, of the Company in connection with the Company’s business. Executive will at all times perform all of the duties and obligations required by Executive under this Agreement in a loyal and conscientious manner and to the best of Executive’s ability and experience.

(c) Performance of Executive’s Duties. During Executive’s employment with the Company, and except for periods of illness, vacation, Disability, or excused leaves of absence, Executive shall devote Executive’s full time and attention to the business and affairs of the Company pursuant to the general direction of the CEO; provided that nothing herein shall preclude Executive from, subject to prior consent of the CEO: (i) engaging in additional activities in connection with personal investments and community affairs including service on non-profit boards of directors; (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors for for-profit organizations that are not competitors of the Company; and (iii) serving as an advisor, or as a member of an advisory board of organizations that are not competitors of the Company; provided such activities do not individually or in the aggregate interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement, violate the Company’s standards of conduct then in effect or raise a conflict under the Company’s conflict of interest policies.

 

1


2. Term. The period of Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and shall continue until Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated. The phrase “Term of Employment” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the entire period of employment of Executive by the Company.

3. Compensation and Related Matters.

(a) Annual Base Salary. Executive shall receive a base salary at the rate of $257,500 per annum (as may be increased from time to time, the “Annual Base Salary”), subject to withholdings and deductions, which shall be paid to Executive in accordance with the customary payroll practices and procedures of the Company. Such Annual Base Salary shall be reviewed by the CEO, and as applicable, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”), not less than annually, and may be increased, but not decreased, in connection with any such review.

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible to receive a discretionary annual bonus based on Executive’s achievement of performance objectives as mutually agreed between Executive and the CEO, such bonus target to be equal to 30% of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (the “Annual Bonus”). Any Annual Bonus earned will be paid at the same time annual bonuses are paid to other executives of the Company generally, subject to any limitations on payment as set forth in Section 6.

(c) Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee and executive benefit plans and programs as the Company may offer from time to time to provide to its executives, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein is intended, or shall be construed, to require the Company to institute or continue any, or any particular, plan, or benefits.

(d) Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket travel and other business expenses incurred by Executive in the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company in accordance with the Company’s applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures as are in effect from time to time.

(e) Vacation. Executive will be entitled to not less than fifteen (15) business days of paid vacation each calendar year, pro-rated for partial calendar years of service, which may be taken in accordance with the Company’s vacation policy.

(f) Equity Awards. Executive shall be eligible to receive grants of equity awards in the Company’s sole discretion.

(g) Indemnification Agreement; Insurance. As an officer of the Company, Executive shall be entitled to enter into the Company’s standard indemnification agreement. Executive will also be covered under a directors and officers liability insurance policy paid for by the Company for so long as Executive serves as an officer of the Company.

 

2


4. Acceleration of Equity Awards Upon a Change in Control. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of a Change in Control, the vesting of Executive’s then outstanding options, restricted stock and other equity awards covering shares of the Company’s common stock (collectively, “Equity Awards”) shall accelerate as of immediately prior to such Change in Control with respect to fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to such Equity Awards. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to Executive’s Equity Awards shall continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the Change in Control, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Executive’s Equity Awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the Change in Control shall thereupon vest in full, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through such first anniversary. Notwithstanding the foregoing and for the avoidance of doubt, any shares subject to Equity Awards that do not accelerate immediately prior to the Change in Control in accordance with the foregoing shall be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6(d)(iii) below.

5. Termination.

(a) At-Will Employment. The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and shall continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law. This means that it is not for any specified period of time and can be terminated by Executive or by the Company at any time, with or without advance notice, and for any or no particular reason or cause. It also means that Executive’s job duties, title, and responsibility and reporting level, work schedule, compensation, and benefits, as well as the Company’s personnel policies and procedures, may be changed with prospective effect, with or without notice, at any time in the sole discretion of the Company (subject to any ramification such changes may have under Section 6 of this Agreement). This “at-will” nature of Executive’s employment shall remain unchanged during Executive’s tenure as an employee and may not be changed, except in an express writing signed by Executive and the CEO. If Executive’s employment terminates for any lawful reason, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, Equity Awards or other compensation other than as provided in this Agreement.

(b) Notice of Termination. During the Term of Employment, any termination of Executive’s employment by the Company or by Executive (other than by reason of death) shall be communicated by written notice (a “Notice of Termination”) from one Party hereto to the other Party hereto (i) indicating the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, if any, (ii) setting forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated and (iii) specifying the date of the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (the “Date of Termination”). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder. The failure by Executive to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Good Reason shall not waive any right of Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

(c) Deemed Resignation. Upon termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from all offices and board memberships, if any, then held with the Company or any of its affiliates, and, at the Company’s request, Executive shall execute such documents as are necessary or desirable to effectuate such resignations.

 

3


6. Consequences of Termination.

(a) Release. In the event Executive’s employment with the Company terminates pursuant to Section 5, then Executive shall be entitled to the applicable payments and benefits set forth below subject to Executive delivering to the Company a waiver and release of claims agreement in standard reasonable form approved by the Company that becomes effective and irrevocable in accordance with Section 7 hereof (a “Release”).

(b) Payments upon Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason. Upon a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause, Executive (or Executive’s estate or legal representative, as applicable) shall be entitled to receive, within thirty (30) days of the effective date of termination of employment with the Company (whether such termination of employment is effected by the Company or Executive) (or such earlier date as may be required by applicable law): (i) any portion of Executive’s Annual Base Salary earned through Executive’s Date of Termination not theretofore paid; (ii) any reimbursement of expenses owed to Executive under Section 3(e) above; and (iii) any accrued but unused paid time-off owed to Executive ((i)-(iii) defined as the “Accrued Obligations”). In the event Executive is terminated by the Company for Cause, Executive shall forfeit, effective as of the date Executive engages in such conduct giving rise to his termination for Cause, all unexercised, unearned and/or unpaid Equity Awards, including without limitation, Equity Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing. Any termination of employment by Executive without Good Reason shall be deemed, and shall be treated as, a termination for “Cause”, and accordingly, the Company shall only be obligated to pay to Executive the amounts described in this Section 6(b).

(c) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination Outside a Change in Control Period. If, outside a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) twelve months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s target Annual Bonus, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Executive’s Date of Termination;

(iii) fifty percent (50%) of the unvested Equity Awards held by the Executive as of the Date of Termination will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the six-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder

 

4


(“COBRA”), the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, coverage under its group health plan (if any) at the same coverage levels in effect on the Date of Termination (“Benefits Coverage”); provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(d) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination During a Change in Control Period. If, during a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) eighteen months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s target Annual Bonus;

(iii) one hundred percent (100%) of all unvested Equity Awards held by Executive as of the Date of Termination, will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the first anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under COBRA, the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, the Benefits Coverage; provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(e) No Other Severance. The provisions of this Section 6 shall supersede in their entirety any severance payment provisions in any severance plan, policy, program, or other arrangement maintained by the Company except for such additional benefits otherwise approved by the Board or Compensation Committee of the Board after the date hereof.

 

5


(f) No Requirement to Mitigate; Survival. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the termination of Executive’s employment shall not impair the rights or obligations of any Party.

7. Release. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any payments or other benefits due under this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment are subject to Executive’s execution and delivery of a Release, (a) the Company shall deliver the Release to Executive within ten (10) business days following Executive’s Date of Termination, and the Company’s failure to deliver a Release prior to the expiration of such ten (10) business day period shall constitute a waiver of any requirement to execute a Release, (b) if Executive fails to execute the Release on or prior to the Release Expiration Date (as defined below) or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of the Release thereafter, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release, and (c) in any case where Executive’s Date of Termination and the Release Expiration Date fall in two separate taxable years, any payments required to be made to Executive that are conditioned on the Release and are treated as nonqualified deferred compensation for purposes of Section 409A (as defined below) shall be made in the later taxable year. For purposes of this Section 7, “Release Expiration Date” shall mean the date that is twenty-one (21) days following the date upon which the Company timely delivers the Release to Executive, or, in the event that Executive’s termination of employment is “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967), the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery date. To the extent that any payments of nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A (as defined below)) due under this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment are delayed pursuant to this Section 7, such amounts shall be paid in a lump sum on the first payroll date following the date that Executive executes and does not revoke the Release (and the applicable revocation period has expired) or, in the case of any payments subject to Section 7(c), on the first payroll period to occur in the subsequent taxable year, if later.

8. Non-Solicitation of Employees. For a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall not, either directly or indirectly (a) solicit for employment through any individual, corporation, firm, or other business, any employees, consultants, independent contractors, or other service providers of the Company or any of its affiliates, or (b) solicit any employee, consultant or other service provider of the Company or any of its affiliates to leave the employment or consulting of or cease providing services to the Company or any of its affiliates; provided, however, that the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) shall not apply to inbound inquiries or any general advertisement or solicitation (or any hiring pursuant to such advertisement or solicitation) that is not specifically targeted to such employees, consultants or other service providers.

 

6


9. Golden Parachute Excise Tax.

(a) Best Pay. Any provision of this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment or benefit Executive would receive from the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payment”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this sentence, be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such Payment will be equal to the Reduced Amount (as defined below). The “Reduced Amount” will be either (A) the largest portion of the Payment that would result in no portion of the Payment (after reduction) being subject to the Excise Tax or (B) the entire Payment, whichever amount after taking into account all applicable federal, state, and local employment taxes, income taxes, and the Excise Tax (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from a deduction of such state and local taxes), results in Executive’ s receipt, on an after-tax basis, of the greater economic benefit notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Payment may be subject to the Excise Tax. If a reduction in a Payment is required pursuant to the preceding sentence and the Reduced Amount is determined pursuant to clause (A) of the preceding sentence, the reduction shall occur in the manner (the “Reduction Method”) that results in the greatest economic benefit for Executive. If more than one method of reduction will result in the same economic benefit, the items so reduced will be reduced pro rata (the “Pro Rata Reduction Method”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Reduction Method or the Pro Rata Reduction Method would result in any portion of the Payment being subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A (as defined below) that would not otherwise be subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A, then the Reduction Method and/or the Pro Rata Reduction Method, as the case may be, shall be modified so as to avoid the imposition of taxes pursuant to Section 409A as follows: (1) as a first priority, the modification shall preserve to the greatest extent possible, the greatest economic benefit for Executive as determined on an after-tax basis; (2) as a second priority, Payments that are contingent on future events (e.g., being terminated without cause), shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not contingent on future events; and (3) as a third priority, Payments that are “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A.

(b) Accounting Firm. The accounting firm engaged by the Company for general tax purposes as of the day prior to the Change in Control will perform the calculations set forth in Section 9(a) above. If the firm so engaged by the Company is serving as the accountant or auditor for the Acquiring Company, the Company will appoint a nationally recognized accounting firm to make the determinations required hereunder. The Company will bear all expenses with respect to the determinations by such firm required to be made hereunder. The accounting firm engaged to make the determinations hereunder will provide its calculations, together with detailed supporting documentation, to the Company within thirty (30) days before the consummation of a Change in Control (if requested at that time by the Company) or such other time as requested by the Company. If the accounting firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable with respect to a Payment, either before or after the application of the Reduced Amount, it will furnish the Company with documentation reasonably acceptable to the Company that no Excise Tax will be imposed with respect to such Payment. Any good faith determinations of the accounting firm made hereunder will be final, binding and conclusive upon the Company and Executive.

10. Section 409A.

(a) General. The intent of the Parties is that the payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date, (“Section 409A”) and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be

 

7


interpreted to be in compliance therewith. If Executive notifies the Company that Executive has received advice of tax counsel of a national reputation with expertise in Section 409A that any provision of this Agreement would cause Executive to incur any additional tax or interest under Section 409A (with specificity as to the reason therefor) or the Company independently makes such determination, the Company and Executive shall take commercially reasonable efforts to reform such provision to try to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A through good faith modifications to the minimum extent reasonably appropriate to conform with Section 409A, provided that any such modifications shall not increase the cost or liability to the Company. To the extent that any provision hereof is modified in order to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A, such modification shall be made in good faith and shall, to the maximum extent reasonably possible, maintain the original intent and economic benefit to Executive and the Company of the applicable provision without violating the provisions of Section 409A.

(b) Separation from Service. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Agreement: (i) no amount that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A shall be payable pursuant to Section 6(c) or Section 6(d) above unless the termination of Executive’s employment constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Department of Treasury Regulations (“Separation from Service”); (ii) for purposes of Section 409A, Executive’s right to receive installment payments shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments; and (iii) to the extent that any reimbursement of expenses or in-kind benefits constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A, such reimbursement or benefit shall be provided no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the expense was incurred. The amount of expenses reimbursed in one year shall not affect the amount eligible for reimbursement in any subsequent year. The amount of any in-kind benefits provided in one year shall not affect the amount of in-kind benefits provided in any other year.

(c) Specified Employee. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if Executive is deemed by the Company at the time of Executive’s Separation from Service to be a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A, to the extent delayed commencement of any portion of the benefits to which Executive is entitled under this Agreement is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Section 409A, such portion of Executive’s benefits shall not be provided to Executive prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6)-month period measured from the date of Executive’s Separation from Service with the Company or (ii) the date of Executive’s death. Upon the first business day following the expiration of the applicable Section 409A period, all payments deferred pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries), and any remaining payments due to Executive under this Agreement shall be paid as otherwise provided herein.

11. Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement any federal, state, local, or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which the Company is required to withhold. The Company shall be entitled to rely on an opinion of counsel if any questions as to the amount or requirement of withholding shall arise.

 

8


12. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) Prior Employment. Executive represents and warrants that Executive’s acceptance of employment with the Company has not breached, and the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder will not breach, any duty owed by Executive to any prior employer or other person. Executive further represents and warrants to the Company that: (a) the performance of Executive’s obligations hereunder will not violate any agreement between Executive and any other person, firm, organization, or other entity; (b) Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party to refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or other party that would be violated by Executive entering into this Agreement and/or providing services to the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; and (c) Executive’s performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement will not require Executive to, and Executive shall not, rely on in the performance of Executive’s duties or disclose to the Company or any other person or entity or induce the Company in any way to use or rely on any trade secret or other confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer of Executive.

(b) Assignment and Successors. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor to all or substantially all of the business or the assets of the Company (by merger or otherwise). This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, Executive, and their respective successors, assigns, personnel, and legal representatives, executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees, as applicable. None of Executive’s rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred by Executive, other than Executive’s rights to payments hereunder, which may be transferred only by will, operation of law, or as otherwise provided herein.

(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, construed, interpreted, and enforced in accordance with its express terms, and otherwise in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of California, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law, whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction, and where applicable, the laws of the United States, that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction.

(d) Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

(e) Amendments; Waivers. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. By an instrument in writing similarly executed, Executive or a duly authorized officer of the Company, as applicable, may waive compliance by the other Party with any specifically identified provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is obligated to comply with or perform; provided, however, that such waiver shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any other or subsequent failure. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right, remedy, or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy, or power provided herein or by law or in equity.

(f) Dispute Resolution. Executive agrees that if any disputes should arise between Executive and the Company (including claims against its employees, officers, directors, shareholders, agents, successors, and assigns) relating or pertaining to or arising out of Executive’s employment with the Company, the dispute will be submitted exclusively to binding arbitration before a neutral arbitrator mutually selected by the Company and Executive. This means that

 

9


disputes will be decided by an arbitrator rather than a court or jury, and that both Executive and the Company waive their respective rights to a court or jury trial. Judgment on the arbitration award may be entered in any court having jurisdiction. Nothing herein shall prevent either Party from pursuing injunctive relief in court (without having to post a bond) to avoid irreparable harm pending completion of any arbitration. Within twenty (20) days of the conclusion of the arbitration hearing, the arbitrator shall prepare written findings of fact and conclusions of law. Each party shall bear its own costs and attorneys’ fees in connection with arbitration; provided that the Company shall pay all costs unique to arbitration, including the arbitrator’s fees and costs, that Executive would not be required to pay if the claim was in court. Executive shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs incurred by Executive in any arbitration Executive initiates to enforce Executive’s rights under this Agreement and in which Executive is deemed to be the prevailing party.

(g) Enforcement. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable under present or future laws, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision had never comprised a portion of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement. Furthermore, in lieu of such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision there shall be added automatically as part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable.

(h) Entire Agreement. The terms of this Agreement are intended by the Parties to be the final expression of their agreement with respect to the employment of Executive by the Company and supersede all prior understandings and agreements, whether written or oral, regarding Executive’s employment with the Company. The Parties further intend that this Agreement shall constitute the complete and exclusive statement of their terms and that no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may be introduced in any judicial, administrative, or other legal proceeding to vary the terms of this Agreement.

(i) Employee Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges that Executive has read and understands this Agreement, is fully aware of its legal effect, has not acted in reliance upon any representations or promises made by the Company other than those contained in writing herein, and has entered into this Agreement freely based on Executive’s own judgment.

(j) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same Agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile shall be deemed effective for all purposes.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

10


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris

Name: Todd Harris
Title:   Chief Executive Officer and President
EXECUTIVE
By:  

/s/ Ronald Swanson

Name: Ronald Swanson
Address:

 

 

[Signature Page to Employment Agreement]


APPENDIX I

DEFINITIONS

All defined terms used in this Appendix I that are not otherwise defined in this Appendix I shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Employment Agreement to which this Appendix I relates.

Acquiring Company” shall mean the resulting or surviving corporation, or the company issuing cash or securities (or its ultimate parent company), in a merger consolidation, tender offer or share exchange involving the Company, or the successor corporation to the Company (whether in any such transaction or otherwise).

Cause” shall mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following events or conditions:

(i) any material failure on the part of Executive (other than by reason of Disability of Executive) to faithfully and professionally carry out Executive’s duties which failure continues for ten (10) days after written notice detailing such failure is delivered to Executive by the Company;

(ii) Executive’s dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of the Company;

(iii) Executive’s conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony.

(iv) Executive’s insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Executive to perform the same;

(v) Executive’s material breach of any written agreement with the Company or any of its affiliates or material violation of the Company’s Code of Conduct or any other material written policy of the Company; or

(vi) Any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Executive.

Change in Control” shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events or circumstances:

(i) any “person” (within the meaning of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)), including a “group” within the meaning of such Section 13(d) but excluding the Company and any of its subsidiaries and any employee benefit plan sponsored or maintained by the Company or any subsidiary thereof, shall become the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing fifty percent (50%) or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (“Company Voting Securities”);


(ii) the consummation of a merger or consolidation involving the Company, or the acceptance by the stockholders of the Company of equity securities in a share exchange, where the Persons who were the beneficial owners of the Company Voting Securities outstanding immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or share exchange, do not beneficially own, directly or indirectly, immediately after such merger, consolidation or share exchange, securities representing more than fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power of the then-outstanding Company Voting Securities or voting securities of the Acquiring Company in such merger, consolidation or share exchange, in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or share exchange;

(iii) a sale, exchange or other disposition or transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company; provided, however, that a Change in Control shall not be deemed to have occurred where: (x) the Company sells, exchanges or otherwise disposes or transfers all or substantially all of its assets to another Person which is beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, immediately following such transaction by the holders of Company Voting Securities in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such transaction; and (y) such Person expressly assumes this Agreement; or

(iv) such time as the Continuing Directors (as defined below) do not constitute at least a majority of the Board (or, if applicable, the board of directors of a successor to the Company), where the term “Continuing Director” means at any date a member of the Board who was: (x) a member of the Board on the Effective Date; or (y) nominated or elected subsequent to the Effective Date by at least a majority of the directors who were Continuing Directors at the time of such nomination or election or whose election to the Board was recommended or endorsed by at least a majority of the directors who were Continuing Directors at the time of such nomination or election (it being understood that no individual whose initial assumption of office occurred as a result of an actual or threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board shall be a Continuing Director).

Change in Control Period” shall mean the period commencing three (3) months prior to a Change in Control and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary of the Change in Control.

Disability” shall mean permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

Good Reason” shall mean any one of the following: (i) the material reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in your Annual Base Salary); (ii) a material reduction of Executive’s duties and responsibilities from those in effect on the Effective Date; (iii) the Company’s material breach of this Agreement (other than a reduction of your Annual Base Salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in your Annual Base Salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Executive’s principal place of employment that increases Executive’s one-way


commute by more than thirty-five (35) miles, provided, that, in each case, Executive will not be deemed to have Good Reason unless (A)Executive first provides the Board with written notice of the condition giving rise to Good Reason within thirty (30)days of its initial occurrence, (B)the Company or the successor company fails to cure such condition within ten (10)days after receiving such written notice (the “Cure Period”), and (C)Executive’s resignation based on such Good Reason is effective within thirty (30)days after the expiration of the Cure Period.

Involuntary Termination” shall mean Executive’s termination (A) by the Company without Cause, (B) by Executive for Good Reason, (C) due to death or (D) due to Disability.

Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, or other business entity.

EX-10.9

Exhibit 10.9

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into this 9th day of November, 2020 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Hiroomi Tada (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”). Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have those meanings set forth in Appendix I hereto.

WHEREAS, the Company desires to retain the services of Executive by engaging Executive to perform services as an employee of the Company under the terms hereof; and

WHEREAS, Executive desires to provide services to the Company on the terms hereof.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, including the respective covenants and agreements set forth below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Employment.

(a) General. The Company shall employ Executive upon the terms and conditions provided herein effective as of the Effective Date.

(b) Position and Duties. Effective on the Effective Date, Executive shall serve as the Company’s Chief Medical Officer, with responsibilities, duties, and authority usual and customary for such position subject to direction by the Chief Executive Officer (the “CEO”). During Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive shall report directly to the CEO and agrees promptly and faithfully to comply with all present and future policies, requirements, rules and regulations, and reasonable directions and requests, of the Company in connection with the Company’s business. Executive will at all times perform all of the duties and obligations required by Executive under this Agreement in a loyal and conscientious manner and to the best of Executive’s ability and experience.

(c) Performance of Executive’s Duties. During Executive’s employment with the Company, and except for periods of illness, vacation, Disability, or excused leaves of absence, Executive shall devote Executive’s full time and attention to the business and affairs of the Company pursuant to the general direction of the CEO; provided that nothing herein shall preclude Executive from, subject to prior consent of the CEO: (i) engaging in additional activities in connection with personal investments and community affairs including service on non-profit boards of directors; (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors for for-profit organizations that are not competitors of the Company; and (iii) serving as an advisor, or as a member of an advisory board of organizations that are not competitors of the Company; provided such activities do not individually or in the aggregate interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement, violate the Company’s standards of conduct then in effect or raise a conflict under the Company’s conflict of interest policies.


2. Term. The period of Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and shall continue until Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated. The phrase “Term of Employment” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the entire period of employment of Executive by the Company.

3. Compensation and Related Matters.

(a) Annual Base Salary. Executive shall receive a base salary at the rate of $380,000 per annum (as may be increased from time to time, the “Annual Base Salary”), subject to withholdings and deductions, which shall be paid to Executive in accordance with the customary payroll practices and procedures of the Company. Such Annual Base Salary shall be reviewed by the CEO, and as applicable, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”), not less than annually, and may be increased, but not decreased, in connection with any such review.

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible to receive a discretionary annual bonus based on Executive’s achievement of performance objectives as mutually agreed between Executive and the CEO, such bonus target to be equal to 30% of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (the “Annual Bonus”). As consideration for signing prior to year-end 2020, your 1st pro-rated bonus due in Q12021 will be equal to the greater of your eligible pro-rated bonus target or $75,000 which represents the bonus you are forgoing with your current employer. Any Annual Bonus earned will be paid at the same time annual bonuses are paid to other executives of the Company generally, subject to any limitations on payment as set forth in Section 6.

(c) Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee and executive benefit plans and programs as the Company may offer from time to time to provide to its executives, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein is intended, or shall be construed, to require the Company to institute or continue any, or any particular, plan, or benefits.

(d) Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket travel and other business expenses incurred by Executive in the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company in accordance with the Company’s applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures as are in effect from time to time. The Company will also cover the expense of travel, room and board when working from Company headquarters in Carlsbad, CA.

(e) Vacation. Executive will be entitled to not less than fifteen (15) business days of paid vacation each calendar year, pro-rated for partial calendar years of service, which may be taken in accordance with the Company’s vacation policy.

(f) Equity Awards. Executive shall be eligible to receive grants of equity awards in the Company’s sole discretion.

(g) Indemnification Agreement; Insurance. As an officer of the Company, Executive shall be entitled to enter into the Company’s standard indemnification agreement.

 

2


Executive will also be covered under a directors and officers liability insurance policy paid for by the Company for so long as Executive serves as an officer of the Company.

4. Acceleration of Equity Awards Upon a Change in Control. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of a Change in Control, the vesting of Executive’s then outstanding options, restricted stock and other equity awards covering shares of the Company’s common stock (collectively, “Equity Awards”) shall accelerate as of immediately prior to such Change in Control with respect to fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to such Equity Awards. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to Executive’s Equity Awards shall continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the Change in Control, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Executive’s Equity Awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the Change in Control shall thereupon vest in full, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through such first anniversary. Notwithstanding the foregoing and for the avoidance of doubt, any shares subject to Equity Awards that do not accelerate immediately prior to the Change in Control in accordance with the foregoing shall be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6(d)(iii) below.

5. Termination.

(a) At-Will Employment. The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and shall continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law. This means that it is not for any specified period of time and can be terminated by Executive or by the Company at any time, with or without advance notice, and for any or no particular reason or cause. It also means that Executive’s job duties, title, and responsibility and reporting level, work schedule, compensation, and benefits, as well as the Company’s personnel policies and procedures, may be changed with prospective effect, with or without notice, at any time in the sole discretion of the Company (subject to any ramification such changes may have under Section 6 of this Agreement). This “at-will” nature of Executive’s employment shall remain unchanged during Executive’s tenure as an employee and may not be changed, except in an express writing signed by Executive and the CEO. If Executive’s employment terminates for any lawful reason, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, Equity Awards or other compensation other than as provided in this Agreement.

(b) Notice of Termination. During the Term of Employment, any termination of Executive’s employment by the Company or by Executive (other than by reason of death) shall be communicated by written notice (a “Notice of Termination”) from one Party hereto to the other Party hereto (i) indicating the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, if any, (ii) setting forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated and (iii) specifying the date of the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (the “Date of Termination”). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder. The failure by Executive to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Good Reason shall not waive any right of Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

 

3


(c) Deemed Resignation. Upon termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from all offices and board memberships, if any, then held with the Company or any of its affiliates, and, at the Company’s request, Executive shall execute such documents as are necessary or desirable to effectuate such resignations.

6. Consequences of Termination.

(a) Release. In the event Executive’s employment with the Company terminates pursuant to Section 5, then Executive shall be entitled to the applicable payments and benefits set forth below subject to Executive delivering to the Company a waiver and release of claims agreement in standard reasonable form approved by the Company that becomes effective and irrevocable in accordance with Section 7 hereof (a “Release”).

(b) Payments upon Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason. Upon a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause, Executive (or Executive’s estate or legal representative, as applicable) shall be entitled to receive, within thirty (30) days of the effective date of termination of employment with the Company (whether such termination of employment is effected by the Company or Executive) (or such earlier date as may be required by applicable law): (i) any portion of Executive’s Annual Base Salary earned through Executive’s Date of Termination not theretofore paid; (ii) any reimbursement of expenses owed to Executive under Section 3(e) above; and (iii) any accrued but unused paid time-off owed to Executive ((i)-(iii) defined as the “Accrued Obligations”). In the event Executive is terminated by the Company for Cause, Executive shall forfeit, effective as of the date Executive engages in such conduct giving rise to his termination for Cause, all unexercised, unearned and/or unpaid Equity Awards, including without limitation, Equity Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing. Any termination of employment by Executive without Good Reason shall be deemed, and shall be treated as, a termination for “Cause”, and accordingly, the Company shall only be obligated to pay to Executive the amounts described in this Section 6(b).

(c) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination Outside a Change in Control Period. If, outside a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) twelve months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s target Annual Bonus, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Executive’s Date of Termination;

 

4


(iii) fifty percent (50%) of the unvested Equity Awards held by the Executive as of the Date of Termination will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the six-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder (“COBRA”), the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, coverage under its group health plan (if any) at the same coverage levels in effect on the Date of Termination (“Benefits Coverage”); provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(d) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination During a Change in Control Period. If, during a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) eighteen months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s target Annual Bonus;

(iii) one hundred percent (100%) of all unvested Equity Awards held by Executive as of the Date of Termination, will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the first anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under COBRA, the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, the Benefits Coverage; provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration

 

5


of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(e) No Other Severance. The provisions of this Section 6 shall supersede in their entirety any severance payment provisions in any severance plan, policy, program, or other arrangement maintained by the Company except for such additional benefits otherwise approved by the Board or Compensation Committee of the Board after the date hereof.

(f) No Requirement to Mitigate; Survival. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the termination of Executive’s employment shall not impair the rights or obligations of any Party.

7. Release. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any payments or other benefits due under this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment are subject to Executive’s execution and delivery of a Release, (a) the Company shall deliver the Release to Executive within ten (10) business days following Executive’s Date of Termination, and the Company’s failure to deliver a Release prior to the expiration of such ten (10) business day period shall constitute a waiver of any requirement to execute a Release, (b) if Executive fails to execute the Release on or prior to the Release Expiration Date (as defined below) or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of the Release thereafter, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release, and (c) in any case where Executive’s Date of Termination and the Release Expiration Date fall in two separate taxable years, any payments required to be made to Executive that are conditioned on the Release and are treated as nonqualified deferred compensation for purposes of Section 409A (as defined below) shall be made in the later taxable year. For purposes of this Section 7, “Release Expiration Date” shall mean the date that is twenty-one (21) days following the date upon which the Company timely delivers the Release to Executive, or, in the event that Executive’s termination of employment is “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967), the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery date. To the extent that any payments of nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A (as defined below)) due under this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment are delayed pursuant to this Section 7, such amounts shall be paid in a lump sum on the first payroll date following the date that Executive executes and does not revoke the Release (and the applicable revocation period has expired) or, in the case of any payments subject to Section 7(c), on the first payroll period to occur in the subsequent taxable year, if later.

 

6


8. Non-Solicitation of Employees. For a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall not, either directly or indirectly (a) solicit for employment through any individual, corporation, firm, or other business, any employees, consultants, independent contractors, or other service providers of the Company or any of its affiliates, or (b) solicit any employee, consultant or other service provider of the Company or any of its affiliates to leave the employment or consulting of or cease providing services to the Company or any of its affiliates; provided, however, that the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) shall not apply to inbound inquiries or any general advertisement or solicitation (or any hiring pursuant to such advertisement or solicitation) that is not specifically targeted to such employees, consultants or other service providers.

9. Golden Parachute Excise Tax.

(a) Best Pay. Any provision of this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment or benefit Executive would receive from the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payment”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this sentence, be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such Payment will be equal to the Reduced Amount (as defined below). The “Reduced Amount” will be either (A) the largest portion of the Payment that would result in no portion of the Payment (after reduction) being subject to the Excise Tax or (B) the entire Payment, whichever amount after taking into account all applicable federal, state, and local employment taxes, income taxes, and the Excise Tax (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from a deduction of such state and local taxes), results in Executive’ s receipt, on an after-tax basis, of the greater economic benefit notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Payment may be subject to the Excise Tax. If a reduction in a Payment is required pursuant to the preceding sentence and the Reduced Amount is determined pursuant to clause (A) of the preceding sentence, the reduction shall occur in the manner (the “Reduction Method”) that results in the greatest economic benefit for Executive. If more than one method of reduction will result in the same economic benefit, the items so reduced will be reduced pro rata (the “Pro Rata Reduction Method”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Reduction Method or the Pro Rata Reduction Method would result in any portion of the Payment being subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A (as defined below) that would not otherwise be subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A, then the Reduction Method and/or the Pro Rata Reduction Method, as the case may be, shall be modified so as to avoid the imposition of taxes pursuant to Section 409A as follows: (1) as a first priority, the modification shall preserve to the greatest extent possible, the greatest economic benefit for Executive as determined on an after-tax basis; (2) as a second priority, Payments that are contingent on future events (e.g., being terminated without cause), shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not contingent on future events; and (3) as a third priority, Payments that are “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A.

(b) Accounting Firm. The accounting firm engaged by the Company for general tax purposes as of the day prior to the Change in Control will perform the calculations set forth in Section 9(a) above. If the firm so engaged by the Company is serving as the accountant or auditor for the Acquiring Company, the Company will appoint a nationally recognized accounting firm to make the determinations required hereunder. The Company will bear all expenses with respect to the determinations by such firm required to be made hereunder. The accounting firm engaged to make the determinations hereunder will provide its calculations,

 

7


together with detailed supporting documentation, to the Company within thirty (30) days before the consummation of a Change in Control (if requested at that time by the Company) or such other time as requested by the Company. If the accounting firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable with respect to a Payment, either before or after the application of the Reduced Amount, it will furnish the Company with documentation reasonably acceptable to the Company that no Excise Tax will be imposed with respect to such Payment. Any good faith determinations of the accounting firm made hereunder will be final, binding and conclusive upon the Company and Executive.

10. Section 409A.

(a) General. The intent of the Parties is that the payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date, (“Section 409A”) and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted to be in compliance therewith. If Executive notifies the Company that Executive has received advice of tax counsel of a national reputation with expertise in Section 409A that any provision of this Agreement would cause Executive to incur any additional tax or interest under Section 409A (with specificity as to the reason therefor) or the Company independently makes such determination, the Company and Executive shall take commercially reasonable efforts to reform such provision to try to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A through good faith modifications to the minimum extent reasonably appropriate to conform with Section 409A, provided that any such modifications shall not increase the cost or liability to the Company. To the extent that any provision hereof is modified in order to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A, such modification shall be made in good faith and shall, to the maximum extent reasonably possible, maintain the original intent and economic benefit to Executive and the Company of the applicable provision without violating the provisions of Section 409A.

(b) Separation from Service. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Agreement: (i) no amount that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A shall be payable pursuant to Section 6(c) or Section 6(d) above unless the termination of Executive’s employment constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Department of Treasury Regulations (“Separation from Service”); (ii) for purposes of Section 409A, Executive’s right to receive installment payments shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments; and (iii) to the extent that any reimbursement of expenses or in-kind benefits constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A, such reimbursement or benefit shall be provided no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the expense was incurred. The amount of expenses reimbursed in one year shall not affect the amount eligible for reimbursement in any subsequent year. The amount of any in-kind benefits provided in one year shall not affect the amount of in-kind benefits provided in any other year.

 

8


(c) Specified Employee. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if Executive is deemed by the Company at the time of Executive’s Separation from Service to be a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A, to the extent delayed commencement of any portion of the benefits to which Executive is entitled under this Agreement is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Section 409A, such portion of Executive’s benefits shall not be provided to Executive prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6)-month period measured from the date of Executive’s Separation from Service with the Company or (ii) the date of Executive’s death. Upon the first business day following the expiration of the applicable Section 409A period, all payments deferred pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries), and any remaining payments due to Executive under this Agreement shall be paid as otherwise provided herein.

11. Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement any federal, state, local, or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which the Company is required to withhold. The Company shall be entitled to rely on an opinion of counsel if any questions as to the amount or requirement of withholding shall arise.

12. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) Prior Employment. Executive represents and warrants that Executive’s acceptance of employment with the Company has not breached, and the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder will not breach, any duty owed by Executive to any prior employer or other person. Executive further represents and warrants to the Company that: (a) the performance of Executive’s obligations hereunder will not violate any agreement between Executive and any other person, firm, organization, or other entity; (b) Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party to refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or other party that would be violated by Executive entering into this Agreement and/or providing services to the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; and (c) Executive’s performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement will not require Executive to, and Executive shall not, rely on in the performance of Executive’s duties or disclose to the Company or any other person or entity or induce the Company in any way to use or rely on any trade secret or other confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer of Executive.

(b) Assignment and Successors. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor to all or substantially all of the business or the assets of the Company (by merger or otherwise). This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, Executive, and their respective successors, assigns, personnel, and legal representatives, executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees, as applicable. None of Executive’s rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred by Executive, other than Executive’s rights to payments hereunder, which may be transferred only by will, operation of law, or as otherwise provided herein.

(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, construed, interpreted, and enforced in accordance with its express terms, and otherwise in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of California, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law, whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction, and where applicable, the laws of the United States, that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction.

 

9


(d) Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

(e) Amendments; Waivers. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. By an instrument in writing similarly executed, Executive or a duly authorized officer of the Company, as applicable, may waive compliance by the other Party with any specifically identified provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is obligated to comply with or perform; provided, however, that such waiver shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any other or subsequent failure. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right, remedy, or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy, or power provided herein or by law or in equity.

(f) Dispute Resolution. Executive agrees that if any disputes should arise between Executive and the Company (including claims against its employees, officers, directors, shareholders, agents, successors, and assigns) relating or pertaining to or arising out of Executive’s employment with the Company, the dispute will be submitted exclusively to binding arbitration before a neutral arbitrator mutually selected by the Company and Executive. This means that disputes will be decided by an arbitrator rather than a court or jury, and that both Executive and the Company waive their respective rights to a court or jury trial. Judgment on the arbitration award may be entered in any court having jurisdiction. Nothing herein shall prevent either Party from pursuing injunctive relief in court (without having to post a bond) to avoid irreparable harm pending completion of any arbitration. Within twenty (20) days of the conclusion of the arbitration hearing, the arbitrator shall prepare written findings of fact and conclusions of law. Each party shall bear its own costs and attorneys’ fees in connection with arbitration; provided that the Company shall pay all costs unique to arbitration, including the arbitrator’s fees and costs, that Executive would not be required to pay if the claim was in court. Executive shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs incurred by Executive in any arbitration Executive initiates to enforce Executive’s rights under this Agreement and in which Executive is deemed to be the prevailing party.

(g) Enforcement. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable under present or future laws, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision had never comprised a portion of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement. Furthermore, in lieu of such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision there shall be added automatically as part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable.

(h) Entire Agreement. The terms of this Agreement are intended by the Parties to be the final expression of their agreement with respect to the employment of Executive by the Company and supersede all prior understandings and agreements, whether written or oral, regarding Executive’s employment with the Company. The Parties further intend that this Agreement shall constitute the complete and exclusive statement of their terms and that no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may be introduced in any judicial, administrative, or other legal proceeding to vary the terms of this Agreement.

 

10


(i) Employee Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges that Executive has read and understands this Agreement, is fully aware of its legal effect, has not acted in reliance upon any representations or promises made by the Company other than those contained in writing herein, and has entered into this Agreement freely based on Executive’s own judgment.

(j) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same Agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile shall be deemed effective for all purposes.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

11


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris

Name:   Todd Harris
Title:   Chief Executive Officer and President
EXECUTIVE
By:  

/s/ Hiroomi Tada

Name:   Hiroomi Tada, M.D., Ph.D.
Address:  

[Signature Page to Employment Agreement]


APPENDIX I

DEFINITIONS

All defined terms used in this Appendix I that are not otherwise defined in this Appendix I shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Employment Agreement to which this Appendix I relates.

Acquiring Company” shall mean the resulting or surviving corporation, or the company issuing cash or securities (or its ultimate parent company), in a merger consolidation, tender offer or share exchange involving the Company, or the successor corporation to the Company (whether in any such transaction or otherwise).

Cause” shall mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following events or conditions:

(i) any material failure on the part of Executive (other than by reason of Disability of Executive) to faithfully and professionally carry out Executive’s duties which failure continues for ten (10) days after written notice detailing such failure is delivered to Executive by the Company;

(ii) Executive’s dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of the Company;

(iii) Executive’s conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony.

(iv) Executive’s insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Executive to perform the same;

(v) Executive’s material breach of any written agreement with the Company or any of its affiliates or material violation of the Company’s Code of Conduct or any other material written policy of the Company; or

(vi) Any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Executive.

Change in Control” shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events or circumstances:

(i) any “person” (within the meaning of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)), including a “group” within the meaning of such Section 13(d) but excluding the Company and any of its subsidiaries and any employee benefit plan sponsored or maintained by the Company or any subsidiary thereof, shall become the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing fifty percent (50%) or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (“Company Voting Securities”);


(ii) the consummation of a merger or consolidation involving the Company, or the acceptance by the stockholders of the Company of equity securities in a share exchange, where the Persons who were the beneficial owners of the Company Voting Securities outstanding immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or share exchange, do not beneficially own, directly or indirectly, immediately after such merger, consolidation or share exchange, securities representing more than fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power of the then-outstanding Company Voting Securities or voting securities of the Acquiring Company in such merger, consolidation or share exchange, in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or share exchange;

(iii) a sale, exchange or other disposition or transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company; provided, however, that a Change in Control shall not be deemed to have occurred where: (x) the Company sells, exchanges or otherwise disposes or transfers all or substantially all of its assets to another Person which is beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, immediately following such transaction by the holders of Company Voting Securities in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such transaction; and (y) such Person expressly assumes this Agreement; or

(iv) such time as the Continuing Directors (as defined below) do not constitute at least a majority of the Board (or, if applicable, the board of directors of a successor to the Company), where the term “Continuing Director” means at any date a member of the Board who was: (x) a member of the Board on the Effective Date; or (y) nominated or elected subsequent to the Effective Date by at least a majority of the directors who were Continuing Directors at the time of such nomination or election or whose election to the Board was recommended or endorsed by at least a majority of the directors who were Continuing Directors at the time of such nomination or election (it being understood that no individual whose initial assumption of office occurred as a result of an actual or threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board shall be a Continuing Director).

Change in Control Period” shall mean the period commencing three (3) months prior to a Change in Control and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary of the Change in Control.

Disability” shall mean permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

Good Reason” shall mean any one of the following: (i) the material reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in your Annual Base Salary); (ii) a material reduction of Executive’s duties and responsibilities from those in effect on the Effective Date; (iii) the Company’s material breach of this Agreement (other than a reduction of your Annual Base Salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in your Annual Base Salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Executive’s principal place of employment that increases Executive’s


one-way commute by more than thirty-five (35) miles, provided, that, in each case, Executive will not be deemed to have Good Reason unless (A)Executive first provides the Board with written notice of the condition giving rise to Good Reason within thirty (30)days of its initial occurrence, (B)the Company or the successor company fails to cure such condition within ten (10)days after receiving such written notice (the “Cure Period”), and (C)Executive’s resignation based on such Good Reason is effective within thirty (30)days after the expiration of the Cure Period.

Involuntary Termination” shall mean Executive’s termination (A) by the Company without Cause, (B) by Executive for Good Reason, (C) due to death or (D) due to Disability.

Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, or other business entity.

EX-10.10

Exhibit 10.10

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into this 1st day of January, 2021 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Robert Hudkins (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”). Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have those meanings set forth in Appendix I hereto.

WHEREAS, the Company desires to retain the services of Executive by engaging Executive to perform services as an employee of the Company under the terms hereof; and

WHEREAS, Executive desires to provide services to the Company on the terms hereof.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, including the respective covenants and agreements set forth below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Employment.

(a) General. The Company shall employ Executive upon the terms and conditions provided herein effective as of the Effective Date.

(b) Position and Duties. Effective on the Effective Date, Executive shall serve as the Company’s Chief Technology Officer, with responsibilities, duties, and authority usual and customary for such position subject to direction by the Chief Operating Officer (the “COO”). During Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive shall report directly to the COO and agrees promptly and faithfully to comply with all present and future policies, requirements, rules and regulations, and reasonable directions and requests, of the Company in connection with the Company’s business. Executive will at all times perform all of the duties and obligations required by Executive under this Agreement in a loyal and conscientious manner and to the best of Executive’s ability and experience.

(c) Performance of Executive’s Duties. During Executive’s employment with the Company, and except for periods of illness, vacation, Disability, or excused leaves of absence, Executive shall devote Executive’s full time and attention to the business and affairs of the Company pursuant to the general direction of the COO; provided that nothing herein shall preclude Executive from, subject to prior consent of the COO: (i) engaging in additional activities in connection with personal investments and community affairs including service on non-profit boards of directors; (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors for for-profit organizations that are not competitors of the Company; and (iii) serving as an advisor, or as a member of an advisory board of organizations that are not competitors of the Company; provided such activities do not individually or in the aggregate interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement, violate the Company’s standards of conduct then in effect or raise a conflict under the Company’s conflict of interest policies.

 


2. Term. The period of Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and shall continue until Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated. The phrase “Term of Employment” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the entire period of employment of Executive by the Company.

3. Compensation and Related Matters.

(a) Annual Base Salary. Executive shall receive a base salary at the rate of $300,000 per annum (as may be increased from time to time, the “Annual Base Salary”), subject to withholdings and deductions, which shall be paid to Executive in accordance with the customary payroll practices and procedures of the Company. Such Annual Base Salary shall be reviewed by the COO, and as applicable, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”), not less than annually, and may be increased, but not decreased, in connection with any such review.

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible to receive a discretionary annual bonus based on Executive’s achievement of performance objectives as mutually agreed between Executive and the COO, such bonus target to be equal to 30% of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (the “Annual Bonus”). Any Annual Bonus earned will be paid at the same time annual bonuses are paid to other executives of the Company generally, subject to any limitations on payment as set forth in Section 6.

(c) Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee and executive benefit plans and programs as the Company may offer from time to time to provide to its executives, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein is intended, or shall be construed, to require the Company to institute or continue any, or any particular, plan, or benefits.

(d) Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket travel and other business expenses incurred by Executive in the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company in accordance with the Company’s applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures as are in effect from time to time. The Company will also cover the expense of travel, room and board when working from Company headquarters in Carlsbad, CA.

(e) Vacation. Executive will be entitled to vacation, which may be taken in accordance with the Company’s vacation policy.

(f) Equity Awards. Executive shall be eligible to receive grants of equity awards in the Company’s sole discretion.

(g) Indemnification Agreement; Insurance. As an officer of the Company, Executive shall be entitled to enter into the Company’s standard indemnification agreement. Executive will also be covered under a directors and officers liability insurance policy paid for by the Company for so long as Executive serves as an officer of the Company.

 

2


4. Acceleration of Equity Awards Upon a Change in Control. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of a Change in Control, the vesting of Executive’s then outstanding options, restricted stock and other equity awards covering shares of the Company’s common stock (collectively, “Equity Awards”) shall accelerate as of immediately prior to such Change in Control with respect to fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to such Equity Awards. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to Executive’s Equity Awards shall continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the Change in Control, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Executive’s Equity Awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the Change in Control shall thereupon vest in full, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through such first anniversary. Notwithstanding the foregoing and for the avoidance of doubt, any shares subject to Equity Awards that do not accelerate immediately prior to the Change in Control in accordance with the foregoing shall be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6(d)(iii) below.

5. Termination.

(a) At-Will Employment. The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and shall continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law. This means that it is not for any specified period of time and can be terminated by Executive or by the Company at any time, with or without advance notice, and for any or no particular reason or cause. It also means that Executive’s job duties, title, and responsibility and reporting level, work schedule, compensation, and benefits, as well as the Company’s personnel policies and procedures, may be changed with prospective effect, with or without notice, at any time in the sole discretion of the Company (subject to any ramification such changes may have under Section 6 of this Agreement). This “at-will” nature of Executive’s employment shall remain unchanged during Executive’s tenure as an employee and may not be changed, except in an express writing signed by Executive and the COO. If Executive’s employment terminates for any lawful reason, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, Equity Awards or other compensation other than as provided in this Agreement.

(b) Notice of Termination. During the Term of Employment, any termination of Executive’s employment by the Company or by Executive (other than by reason of death) shall be communicated by written notice (a “Notice of Termination”) from one Party hereto to the other Party hereto (i) indicating the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, if any, (ii) setting forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated and (iii) specifying the date of the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (the “Date of Termination”). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder. The failure by Executive to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Good Reason shall not waive any right of Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

(c) Deemed Resignation. Upon termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from all offices and board memberships, if any, then held with the Company or any of its affiliates, and, at the Company’s request, Executive shall execute such documents as are necessary or desirable to effectuate such resignations.

 

3


6. Consequences of Termination.

(a) Release. In the event Executive’s employment with the Company terminates pursuant to Section 5, then Executive shall be entitled to the applicable payments and benefits set forth below subject to Executive delivering to the Company a waiver and release of claims agreement in standard reasonable form approved by the Company that becomes effective and irrevocable in accordance with Section 7 hereof (a “Release”).

(b) Payments upon Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason. Upon a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause, Executive (or Executive’s estate or legal representative, as applicable) shall be entitled to receive, within thirty (30) days of the effective date of termination of employment with the Company (whether such termination of employment is effected by the Company or Executive) (or such earlier date as may be required by applicable law): (i) any portion of Executive’s Annual Base Salary earned through Executive’s Date of Termination not theretofore paid; (ii) any reimbursement of expenses owed to Executive under Section 3(e) above; and (iii) any accrued but unused paid time-off owed to Executive ((i)-(iii) defined as the “Accrued Obligations”). In the event Executive is terminated by the Company for Cause, Executive shall forfeit, effective as of the date Executive engages in such conduct giving rise to his termination for Cause, all unexercised, unearned and/or unpaid Equity Awards, including without limitation, Equity Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing. Any termination of employment by Executive without Good Reason shall be deemed, and shall be treated as, a termination for “Cause”, and accordingly, the Company shall only be obligated to pay to Executive the amounts described in this Section 6(b).

(c) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination Outside a Change in Control Period. If, outside a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) twelve months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s target Annual Bonus, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Executive’s Date of Termination;

(iii) fifty percent (50%) of the unvested Equity Awards held by the Executive as of the Date of Termination will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

 

4


(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the six-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder (“COBRA”), the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, coverage under its group health plan (if any) at the same coverage levels in effect on the Date of Termination (“Benefits Coverage”); provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(d) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination During a Change in Control Period. If, during a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) eighteen months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s target Annual Bonus;

(iii) one hundred percent (100%) of all unvested Equity Awards held by Executive as of the Date of Termination, will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the first anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under COBRA, the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, the Benefits Coverage; provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(e) No Other Severance. The provisions of this Section 6 shall supersede in their entirety any severance payment provisions in any severance plan, policy, program, or other arrangement maintained by the Company except for such additional benefits otherwise approved by the Board or Compensation Committee of the Board after the date hereof.

 

5


(f) No Requirement to Mitigate; Survival. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the termination of Executive’s employment shall not impair the rights or obligations of any Party.

7. Release. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any payments or other benefits due under this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment are subject to Executive’s execution and delivery of a Release, (a) the Company shall deliver the Release to Executive within ten (10) business days following Executive’s Date of Termination, and the Company’s failure to deliver a Release prior to the expiration of such ten (10) business day period shall constitute a waiver of any requirement to execute a Release, (b) if Executive fails to execute the Release on or prior to the Release Expiration Date (as defined below) or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of the Release thereafter, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release, and (c) in any case where Executive’s Date of Termination and the Release Expiration Date fall in two separate taxable years, any payments required to be made to Executive that are conditioned on the Release and are treated as nonqualified deferred compensation for purposes of Section 409A (as defined below) shall be made in the later taxable year. For purposes of this Section 7, “Release Expiration Date” shall mean the date that is twenty-one (21) days following the date upon which the Company timely delivers the Release to Executive, or, in the event that Executive’s termination of employment is “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967), the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery date. To the extent that any payments of nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A (as defined below)) due under this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment are delayed pursuant to this Section 7, such amounts shall be paid in a lump sum on the first payroll date following the date that Executive executes and does not revoke the Release (and the applicable revocation period has expired) or, in the case of any payments subject to Section 7(c), on the first payroll period to occur in the subsequent taxable year, if later.

8. Non-Solicitation of Employees. For a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall not, either directly or indirectly (a) solicit for employment through any individual, corporation, firm, or other business, any employees, consultants, independent contractors, or other service providers of the Company or any of its affiliates, or (b) solicit any employee, consultant or other service provider of the Company or any of its affiliates to leave the employment or consulting of or cease providing services to the Company or any of its affiliates; provided, however, that the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) shall not apply to inbound inquiries or any general advertisement or solicitation (or any hiring pursuant to such advertisement or solicitation) that is not specifically targeted to such employees, consultants or other service providers.

 

6


9. Golden Parachute Excise Tax.

(a) Best Pay. Any provision of this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment or benefit Executive would receive from the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payment”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this sentence, be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such Payment will be equal to the Reduced Amount (as defined below). The “Reduced Amount” will be either (A) the largest portion of the Payment that would result in no portion of the Payment (after reduction) being subject to the Excise Tax or (B) the entire Payment, whichever amount after taking into account all applicable federal, state, and local employment taxes, income taxes, and the Excise Tax (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from a deduction of such state and local taxes), results in Executive’ s receipt, on an after-tax basis, of the greater economic benefit notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Payment may be subject to the Excise Tax. If a reduction in a Payment is required pursuant to the preceding sentence and the Reduced Amount is determined pursuant to clause (A) of the preceding sentence, the reduction shall occur in the manner (the “Reduction Method”) that results in the greatest economic benefit for Executive. If more than one method of reduction will result in the same economic benefit, the items so reduced will be reduced pro rata (the “Pro Rata Reduction Method”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Reduction Method or the Pro Rata Reduction Method would result in any portion of the Payment being subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A (as defined below) that would not otherwise be subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A, then the Reduction Method and/or the Pro Rata Reduction Method, as the case may be, shall be modified so as to avoid the imposition of taxes pursuant to Section 409A as follows: (1) as a first priority, the modification shall preserve to the greatest extent possible, the greatest economic benefit for Executive as determined on an after-tax basis; (2) as a second priority, Payments that are contingent on future events (e.g., being terminated without cause), shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not contingent on future events; and (3) as a third priority, Payments that are “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A.

(b) Accounting Firm. The accounting firm engaged by the Company for general tax purposes as of the day prior to the Change in Control will perform the calculations set forth in Section 9(a) above. If the firm so engaged by the Company is serving as the accountant or auditor for the Acquiring Company, the Company will appoint a nationally recognized accounting firm to make the determinations required hereunder. The Company will bear all expenses with respect to the determinations by such firm required to be made hereunder. The accounting firm engaged to make the determinations hereunder will provide its calculations, together with detailed supporting documentation, to the Company within thirty (30) days before the consummation of a Change in Control (if requested at that time by the Company) or such other time as requested by the Company. If the accounting firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable with respect to a Payment, either before or after the application of the Reduced Amount, it will furnish the Company with documentation reasonably acceptable to the Company that no Excise Tax will be imposed with respect to such Payment. Any good faith determinations of the accounting firm made hereunder will be final, binding and conclusive upon the Company and Executive.

 

7


10. Section 409A.

(a) General. The intent of the Parties is that the payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date, (“Section 409A”) and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted to be in compliance therewith. If Executive notifies the Company that Executive has received advice of tax counsel of a national reputation with expertise in Section 409A that any provision of this Agreement would cause Executive to incur any additional tax or interest under Section 409A (with specificity as to the reason therefor) or the Company independently makes such determination, the Company and Executive shall take commercially reasonable efforts to reform such provision to try to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A through good faith modifications to the minimum extent reasonably appropriate to conform with Section 409A, provided that any such modifications shall not increase the cost or liability to the Company. To the extent that any provision hereof is modified in order to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A, such modification shall be made in good faith and shall, to the maximum extent reasonably possible, maintain the original intent and economic benefit to Executive and the Company of the applicable provision without violating the provisions of Section 409A.

(b) Separation from Service. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Agreement: (i) no amount that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A shall be payable pursuant to Section 6(c) or Section 6(d) above unless the termination of Executive’s employment constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Department of Treasury Regulations (“Separation from Service”); (ii) for purposes of Section 409A, Executive’s right to receive installment payments shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments; and (iii) to the extent that any reimbursement of expenses or in-kind benefits constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A, such reimbursement or benefit shall be provided no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the expense was incurred. The amount of expenses reimbursed in one year shall not affect the amount eligible for reimbursement in any subsequent year. The amount of any in-kind benefits provided in one year shall not affect the amount of in-kind benefits provided in any other year.

(c) Specified Employee. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if Executive is deemed by the Company at the time of Executive’s Separation from Service to be a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A, to the extent delayed commencement of any portion of the benefits to which Executive is entitled under this Agreement is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Section 409A, such portion of Executive’s benefits shall not be provided to Executive prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6)-month period measured from the date of Executive’s Separation from Service with the Company or (ii) the date of Executive’s death. Upon the first business day following the expiration of the applicable Section 409A period, all payments deferred pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries), and any remaining payments due to Executive under this Agreement shall be paid as otherwise provided herein.

11. Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement any federal, state, local, or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which the Company is required to withhold. The Company shall be entitled to rely on an opinion of counsel if any questions as to the amount or requirement of withholding shall arise.

 

8


12. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) Prior Employment. Executive represents and warrants that Executive’s acceptance of employment with the Company has not breached, and the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder will not breach, any duty owed by Executive to any prior employer or other person. Executive further represents and warrants to the Company that: (a) the performance of Executive’s obligations hereunder will not violate any agreement between Executive and any other person, firm, organization, or other entity; (b) Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party to refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or other party that would be violated by Executive entering into this Agreement and/or providing services to the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; and (c) Executive’s performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement will not require Executive to, and Executive shall not, rely on in the performance of Executive’s duties or disclose to the Company or any other person or entity or induce the Company in any way to use or rely on any trade secret or other confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer of Executive.

(b) Assignment and Successors. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor to all or substantially all of the business or the assets of the Company (by merger or otherwise). This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, Executive, and their respective successors, assigns, personnel, and legal representatives, executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees, as applicable. None of Executive’s rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred by Executive, other than Executive’s rights to payments hereunder, which may be transferred only by will, operation of law, or as otherwise provided herein.

(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, construed, interpreted, and enforced in accordance with its express terms, and otherwise in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of California, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law, whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction, and where applicable, the laws of the United States, that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction.

(d) Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

(e) Amendments; Waivers. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. By an instrument in writing similarly executed, Executive or a duly authorized officer of the Company, as applicable, may waive compliance by the other Party with any specifically identified provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is obligated to comply with or perform; provided, however, that such waiver shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any other or subsequent failure. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right, remedy, or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy, or power provided herein or by law or in equity.

 

9


(f) Dispute Resolution. Executive agrees that if any disputes should arise between Executive and the Company (including claims against its employees, officers, directors, shareholders, agents, successors, and assigns) relating or pertaining to or arising out of Executive’s employment with the Company, the dispute will be submitted exclusively to binding arbitration before a neutral arbitrator mutually selected by the Company and Executive. This means that disputes will be decided by an arbitrator rather than a court or jury, and that both Executive and the Company waive their respective rights to a court or jury trial. Judgment on the arbitration award may be entered in any court having jurisdiction. Nothing herein shall prevent either Party from pursuing injunctive relief in court (without having to post a bond) to avoid irreparable harm pending completion of any arbitration. Within twenty (20) days of the conclusion of the arbitration hearing, the arbitrator shall prepare written findings of fact and conclusions of law. Each party shall bear its own costs and attorneys’ fees in connection with arbitration; provided that the Company shall pay all costs unique to arbitration, including the arbitrator’s fees and costs, that Executive would not be required to pay if the claim was in court. Executive shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs incurred by Executive in any arbitration Executive initiates to enforce Executive’s rights under this Agreement and in which Executive is deemed to be the prevailing party.

(g) Enforcement. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable under present or future laws, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision had never comprised a portion of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement. Furthermore, in lieu of such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision there shall be added automatically as part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable.

(h) Entire Agreement. The terms of this Agreement are intended by the Parties to be the final expression of their agreement with respect to the employment of Executive by the Company and supersede all prior understandings and agreements, whether written or oral, regarding Executive’s employment with the Company. The Parties further intend that this Agreement shall constitute the complete and exclusive statement of their terms and that no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may be introduced in any judicial, administrative, or other legal proceeding to vary the terms of this Agreement.

(i) Employee Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges that Executive has read and understands this Agreement, is fully aware of its legal effect, has not acted in reliance upon any representations or promises made by the Company other than those contained in writing herein, and has entered into this Agreement freely based on Executive’s own judgment.

(j) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same Agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile shall be deemed effective for all purposes.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

10


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris

Name:   Todd Harris
Title:   Chief Executive Officer and President
EXECUTIVE
By:  

/s/ Robert Hudkins

Name:   Robert Hudkins, Ph.D.
Address:  

[Signature Page to Employment Agreement]


APPENDIX I

DEFINITIONS

All defined terms used in this Appendix I that are not otherwise defined in this Appendix I shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Employment Agreement to which this Appendix I relates.

Acquiring Company” shall mean the resulting or surviving corporation, or the company issuing cash or securities (or its ultimate parent company), in a merger consolidation, tender offer or share exchange involving the Company, or the successor corporation to the Company (whether in any such transaction or otherwise).

Cause” shall mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following events or conditions:

(i) any material failure on the part of Executive (other than by reason of Disability of Executive) to faithfully and professionally carry out Executive’s duties which failure continues for ten (10) days after written notice detailing such failure is delivered to Executive by the Company;

(ii) Executive’s dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of the Company;

(iii) Executive’s conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony.

(iv) Executive’s insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Executive to perform the same;

(v) Executive’s material breach of any written agreement with the Company or any of its affiliates or material violation of the Company’s Code of Conduct or any other material written policy of the Company; or

(vi) Any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Executive.

Change in Control” shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events or circumstances:

(i) any “person” (within the meaning of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)), including a “group” within the meaning of such Section 13(d) but excluding the Company and any of its subsidiaries and any employee benefit plan sponsored or maintained by the Company or any subsidiary thereof, shall become the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing fifty percent (50%) or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (“Company Voting Securities”);


(ii) the consummation of a merger or consolidation involving the Company, or the acceptance by the stockholders of the Company of equity securities in a share exchange, where the Persons who were the beneficial owners of the Company Voting Securities outstanding immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or share exchange, do not beneficially own, directly or indirectly, immediately after such merger, consolidation or share exchange, securities representing more than fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power of the then-outstanding Company Voting Securities or voting securities of the Acquiring Company in such merger, consolidation or share exchange, in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or share exchange;

(iii) a sale, exchange or other disposition or transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company; provided, however, that a Change in Control shall not be deemed to have occurred where: (x) the Company sells, exchanges or otherwise disposes or transfers all or substantially all of its assets to another Person which is beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, immediately following such transaction by the holders of Company Voting Securities in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such transaction; and (y) such Person expressly assumes this Agreement; or

(iv) such time as the Continuing Directors (as defined below) do not constitute at least a majority of the Board (or, if applicable, the board of directors of a successor to the Company), where the term “Continuing Director” means at any date a member of the Board who was: (x) a member of the Board on the Effective Date; or (y) nominated or elected subsequent to the Effective Date by at least a majority of the directors who were Continuing Directors at the time of such nomination or election or whose election to the Board was recommended or endorsed by at least a majority of the directors who were Continuing Directors at the time of such nomination or election (it being understood that no individual whose initial assumption of office occurred as a result of an actual or threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board shall be a Continuing Director).

Change in Control Period” shall mean the period commencing three (3) months prior to a Change in Control and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary of the Change in Control.

Disability” shall mean permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

Good Reason” shall mean any one of the following: (i) the material reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in your Annual Base Salary); (ii) a material reduction of Executive’s duties and responsibilities from those in effect on the Effective Date; (iii) the Company’s material breach of this Agreement (other than a reduction of your Annual Base Salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in your Annual Base Salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Executive’s principal place of employment that increases Executive’s one-way


commute by more than thirty-five (35) miles, provided, that, in each case, Executive will not be deemed to have Good Reason unless (A)Executive first provides the Board with written notice of the condition giving rise to Good Reason within thirty (30)days of its initial occurrence, (B)the Company or the successor company fails to cure such condition within ten (10)days after receiving such written notice (the “Cure Period”), and (C)Executive’s resignation based on such Good Reason is effective within thirty (30)days after the expiration of the Cure Period.

Involuntary Termination” shall mean Executive’s termination (A) by the Company without Cause, (B) by Executive for Good Reason, (C) due to death or (D) due to Disability.

Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, or other business entity.

EX-10.11

Exhibit 10.11

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into this 18th day of January, 2021 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Piyush Patel (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”). Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have those meanings set forth in Appendix I hereto.

WHEREAS, the Company desires to retain the services of Executive by engaging Executive to perform services as an employee of the Company under the terms hereof; and

WHEREAS, Executive desires to provide services to the Company on the terms hereof.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, including the respective covenants and agreements set forth below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Employment.

(a) General. The Company shall employ Executive upon the terms and conditions provided herein effective as of the Effective Date.

(b) Position and Duties. Effective on the Effective Date, Executive shall serve as the Company’s Chief Development Officer, with responsibilities, duties, and authority usual and customary for such position subject to direction by the Chief Operating Officer (the “COO”). During Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive shall report directly to the COO and agrees promptly and faithfully to comply with all present and future policies, requirements, rules and regulations, and reasonable directions and requests, of the Company in connection with the Company’s business. Executive will at all times perform all of the duties and obligations required by Executive under this Agreement in a loyal and conscientious manner and to the best of Executive’s ability and experience.

(c) Performance of Executive’s Duties. During Executive’s employment with the Company, and except for periods of illness, vacation, Disability, or excused leaves of absence, Executive shall devote Executive’s full time and attention to the business and affairs of the Company pursuant to the general direction of the COO; provided that nothing herein shall preclude Executive from, subject to prior consent of the COO: (i) engaging in additional activities in connection with personal investments and community affairs including service on non-profit boards of directors; (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors for for-profit organizations that are not competitors of the Company; and (iii) serving as an advisor, or as a member of an advisory board of organizations that are not competitors of the Company; provided such activities do not individually or in the aggregate interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement, violate the Company’s standards of conduct then in effect or raise a conflict under the Company’s conflict of interest policies.


2. Term. The period of Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and shall continue until Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated. The phrase “Term of Employment” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the entire period of employment of Executive by the Company.

3. Compensation and Related Matters.

(a) Annual Base Salary. Executive shall receive a base salary at the rate of $332,500 per annum (as may be increased from time to time, the “Annual Base Salary”), subject to withholdings and deductions, which shall be paid to Executive in accordance with the customary payroll practices and procedures of the Company. Such Annual Base Salary shall be reviewed by the COO, and as applicable, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”), not less than annually, and may be increased, but not decreased, in connection with any such review.

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible to receive a discretionary annual bonus based on Executive’s achievement of performance objectives as mutually agreed between Executive and the COO, such bonus target to be equal to 30% of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (the “Annual Bonus”). Any Annual Bonus earned will be paid at the same time annual bonuses are paid to other executives of the Company generally, subject to any limitations on payment as set forth in Section 6.

(c) Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee and executive benefit plans and programs as the Company may offer from time to time to provide to its executives, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein is intended, or shall be construed, to require the Company to institute or continue any, or any particular, plan, or benefits.

(d) Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket travel and other business expenses incurred by Executive in the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company in accordance with the Company’s applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures as are in effect from time to time. The Company will also cover the expense of travel, room and board when working from Company headquarters in Carlsbad, CA.

(e) Vacation. Executive will be entitled vacation, which may be taken in accordance with the Company’s vacation policy.

(f) Equity Awards. Executive shall be eligible to receive grants of equity awards in the Company’s sole discretion.

(g) Indemnification Agreement; Insurance. As an officer of the Company, Executive shall be entitled to enter into the Company’s standard indemnification agreement. Executive will also be covered under a directors and officers liability insurance policy paid for by the Company for so long as Executive serves as an officer of the Company.

 

2


4. Acceleration of Equity Awards Upon a Change in Control. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of a Change in Control, the vesting of Executive’s then outstanding options, restricted stock and other equity awards covering shares of the Company’s common stock (collectively, “Equity Awards”) shall accelerate as of immediately prior to such Change in Control with respect to fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to such Equity Awards. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to Executive’s Equity Awards shall continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the Change in Control, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Executive’s Equity Awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the Change in Control shall thereupon vest in full, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through such first anniversary. Notwithstanding the foregoing and for the avoidance of doubt, any shares subject to Equity Awards that do not accelerate immediately prior to the Change in Control in accordance with the foregoing shall be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6(d)(iii) below.

5. Termination.

(a) At-Will Employment. The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and shall continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law. This means that it is not for any specified period of time and can be terminated by Executive or by the Company at any time, with or without advance notice, and for any or no particular reason or cause. It also means that Executive’s job duties, title, and responsibility and reporting level, work schedule, compensation, and benefits, as well as the Company’s personnel policies and procedures, may be changed with prospective effect, with or without notice, at any time in the sole discretion of the Company (subject to any ramification such changes may have under Section 6 of this Agreement). This “at-will” nature of Executive’s employment shall remain unchanged during Executive’s tenure as an employee and may not be changed, except in an express writing signed by Executive and the COO. If Executive’s employment terminates for any lawful reason, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, Equity Awards or other compensation other than as provided in this Agreement.

(b) Notice of Termination. During the Term of Employment, any termination of Executive’s employment by the Company or by Executive (other than by reason of death) shall be communicated by written notice (a “Notice of Termination”) from one Party hereto to the other Party hereto (i) indicating the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, if any, (ii) setting forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated and (iii) specifying the date of the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (the “Date of Termination”). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder. The failure by Executive to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Good Reason shall not waive any right of Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

(c) Deemed Resignation. Upon termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from all offices and board memberships, if any, then held with the Company or any of its affiliates, and, at the Company’s request, Executive shall execute such documents as are necessary or desirable to effectuate such resignations.

 

3


6. Consequences of Termination.

(a) Release. In the event Executive’s employment with the Company terminates pursuant to Section 5, then Executive shall be entitled to the applicable payments and benefits set forth below subject to Executive delivering to the Company a waiver and release of claims agreement in standard reasonable form approved by the Company that becomes effective and irrevocable in accordance with Section 7 hereof (a “Release”).

(b) Payments upon Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason. Upon a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause, Executive (or Executive’s estate or legal representative, as applicable) shall be entitled to receive, within thirty (30) days of the effective date of termination of employment with the Company (whether such termination of employment is effected by the Company or Executive) (or such earlier date as may be required by applicable law): (i) any portion of Executive’s Annual Base Salary earned through Executive’s Date of Termination not theretofore paid; (ii) any reimbursement of expenses owed to Executive under Section 3(e) above; and (iii) any accrued but unused paid time-off owed to Executive ((i)-(iii) defined as the “Accrued Obligations”). In the event Executive is terminated by the Company for Cause, Executive shall forfeit, effective as of the date Executive engages in such conduct giving rise to his termination for Cause, all unexercised, unearned and/or unpaid Equity Awards, including without limitation, Equity Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing. Any termination of employment by Executive without Good Reason shall be deemed, and shall be treated as, a termination for “Cause”, and accordingly, the Company shall only be obligated to pay to Executive the amounts described in this Section 6(b).

(c) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination Outside a Change in Control Period. If, outside a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) twelve months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s target Annual Bonus, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Executive’s Date of Termination;

(iii) fifty percent (50%) of the unvested Equity Awards held by the Executive as of the Date of Termination will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the six-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder

 

4


(“COBRA”), the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, coverage under its group health plan (if any) at the same coverage levels in effect on the Date of Termination (“Benefits Coverage”); provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(d) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination During a Change in Control Period. If, during a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) eighteen months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s target Annual Bonus;

(iii) one hundred percent (100%) of all unvested Equity Awards held by Executive as of the Date of Termination, will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the first anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under COBRA, the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, the Benefits Coverage; provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(e) No Other Severance. The provisions of this Section 6 shall supersede in their entirety any severance payment provisions in any severance plan, policy, program, or other arrangement maintained by the Company except for such additional benefits otherwise approved by the Board or Compensation Committee of the Board after the date hereof.

 

5


(f) No Requirement to Mitigate; Survival. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the termination of Executive’s employment shall not impair the rights or obligations of any Party.

7. Release. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any payments or other benefits due under this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment are subject to Executive’s execution and delivery of a Release, (a) the Company shall deliver the Release to Executive within ten (10) business days following Executive’s Date of Termination, and the Company’s failure to deliver a Release prior to the expiration of such ten (10) business day period shall constitute a waiver of any requirement to execute a Release, (b) if Executive fails to execute the Release on or prior to the Release Expiration Date (as defined below) or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of the Release thereafter, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release, and (c) in any case where Executive’s Date of Termination and the Release Expiration Date fall in two separate taxable years, any payments required to be made to Executive that are conditioned on the Release and are treated as nonqualified deferred compensation for purposes of Section 409A (as defined below) shall be made in the later taxable year. For purposes of this Section 7, “Release Expiration Date” shall mean the date that is twenty-one (21) days following the date upon which the Company timely delivers the Release to Executive, or, in the event that Executive’s termination of employment is “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967), the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery date. To the extent that any payments of nonqualified deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A (as defined below)) due under this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment are delayed pursuant to this Section 7, such amounts shall be paid in a lump sum on the first payroll date following the date that Executive executes and does not revoke the Release (and the applicable revocation period has expired) or, in the case of any payments subject to Section 7(c), on the first payroll period to occur in the subsequent taxable year, if later.

8. Non-Solicitation of Employees. For a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall not, either directly or indirectly (a) solicit for employment through any individual, corporation, firm, or other business, any employees, consultants, independent contractors, or other service providers of the Company or any of its affiliates, or (b) solicit any employee, consultant or other service provider of the Company or any of its affiliates to leave the employment or consulting of or cease providing services to the Company or any of its affiliates; provided, however, that the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) shall not apply to inbound inquiries or any general advertisement or solicitation (or any hiring pursuant to such advertisement or solicitation) that is not specifically targeted to such employees, consultants or other service providers.

 

6


9. Golden Parachute Excise Tax.

(a) Best Pay. Any provision of this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment or benefit Executive would receive from the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payment”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this sentence, be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such Payment will be equal to the Reduced Amount (as defined below). The “Reduced Amount” will be either (A) the largest portion of the Payment that would result in no portion of the Payment (after reduction) being subject to the Excise Tax or (B) the entire Payment, whichever amount after taking into account all applicable federal, state, and local employment taxes, income taxes, and the Excise Tax (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from a deduction of such state and local taxes), results in Executive’ s receipt, on an after-tax basis, of the greater economic benefit notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Payment may be subject to the Excise Tax. If a reduction in a Payment is required pursuant to the preceding sentence and the Reduced Amount is determined pursuant to clause (A) of the preceding sentence, the reduction shall occur in the manner (the “Reduction Method”) that results in the greatest economic benefit for Executive. If more than one method of reduction will result in the same economic benefit, the items so reduced will be reduced pro rata (the “Pro Rata Reduction Method”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Reduction Method or the Pro Rata Reduction Method would result in any portion of the Payment being subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A (as defined below) that would not otherwise be subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A, then the Reduction Method and/or the Pro Rata Reduction Method, as the case may be, shall be modified so as to avoid the imposition of taxes pursuant to Section 409A as follows: (1) as a first priority, the modification shall preserve to the greatest extent possible, the greatest economic benefit for Executive as determined on an after-tax basis; (2) as a second priority, Payments that are contingent on future events (e.g., being terminated without cause), shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not contingent on future events; and (3) as a third priority, Payments that are “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A.

(b) Accounting Firm. The accounting firm engaged by the Company for general tax purposes as of the day prior to the Change in Control will perform the calculations set forth in Section 9(a) above. If the firm so engaged by the Company is serving as the accountant or auditor for the Acquiring Company, the Company will appoint a nationally recognized accounting firm to make the determinations required hereunder. The Company will bear all expenses with respect to the determinations by such firm required to be made hereunder. The accounting firm engaged to make the determinations hereunder will provide its calculations, together with detailed supporting documentation, to the Company within thirty (30) days before the consummation of a Change in Control (if requested at that time by the Company) or such other time as requested by the Company. If the accounting firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable with respect to a Payment, either before or after the application of the Reduced Amount, it will furnish the Company with documentation reasonably acceptable to the Company that no Excise Tax will be imposed with respect to such Payment. Any good faith determinations of the accounting firm made hereunder will be final, binding and conclusive upon the Company and Executive.

 

7


10. Section 409A.

(a) General. The intent of the Parties is that the payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date, (“Section 409A”) and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted to be in compliance therewith. If Executive notifies the Company that Executive has received advice of tax counsel of a national reputation with expertise in Section 409A that any provision of this Agreement would cause Executive to incur any additional tax or interest under Section 409A (with specificity as to the reason therefor) or the Company independently makes such determination, the Company and Executive shall take commercially reasonable efforts to reform such provision to try to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A through good faith modifications to the minimum extent reasonably appropriate to conform with Section 409A, provided that any such modifications shall not increase the cost or liability to the Company. To the extent that any provision hereof is modified in order to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A, such modification shall be made in good faith and shall, to the maximum extent reasonably possible, maintain the original intent and economic benefit to Executive and the Company of the applicable provision without violating the provisions of Section 409A.

(b) Separation from Service. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Agreement: (i) no amount that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A shall be payable pursuant to Section 6(c) or Section 6(d) above unless the termination of Executive’s employment constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Department of Treasury Regulations (“Separation from Service”); (ii) for purposes of Section 409A, Executive’s right to receive installment payments shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments; and (iii) to the extent that any reimbursement of expenses or in-kind benefits constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A, such reimbursement or benefit shall be provided no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the expense was incurred. The amount of expenses reimbursed in one year shall not affect the amount eligible for reimbursement in any subsequent year. The amount of any in-kind benefits provided in one year shall not affect the amount of in-kind benefits provided in any other year.

(c) Specified Employee. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if Executive is deemed by the Company at the time of Executive’s Separation from Service to be a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A, to the extent delayed commencement of any portion of the benefits to which Executive is entitled under this Agreement is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Section 409A, such portion of Executive’s benefits shall not be provided to Executive prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6)-month period measured from the date of Executive’s Separation from Service with the Company or (ii) the date of Executive’s death. Upon the first business day following the expiration of the applicable Section 409A period, all payments deferred pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries), and any remaining payments due to Executive under this Agreement shall be paid as otherwise provided herein.

11. Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement any federal, state, local, or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which the Company is required to withhold. The Company shall be entitled to rely on an opinion of counsel if any questions as to the amount or requirement of withholding shall arise.

 

8


12. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) Prior Employment. Executive represents and warrants that Executive’s acceptance of employment with the Company has not breached, and the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder will not breach, any duty owed by Executive to any prior employer or other person. Executive further represents and warrants to the Company that: (a) the performance of Executive’s obligations hereunder will not violate any agreement between Executive and any other person, firm, organization, or other entity; (b) Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party to refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or other party that would be violated by Executive entering into this Agreement and/or providing services to the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; and (c) Executive’s performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement will not require Executive to, and Executive shall not, rely on in the performance of Executive’s duties or disclose to the Company or any other person or entity or induce the Company in any way to use or rely on any trade secret or other confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer of Executive.

(b) Assignment and Successors. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor to all or substantially all of the business or the assets of the Company (by merger or otherwise). This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, Executive, and their respective successors, assigns, personnel, and legal representatives, executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees, as applicable. None of Executive’s rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred by Executive, other than Executive’s rights to payments hereunder, which may be transferred only by will, operation of law, or as otherwise provided herein.

(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, construed, interpreted, and enforced in accordance with its express terms, and otherwise in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of California, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law, whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction, and where applicable, the laws of the United States, that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction.

(d) Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

(e) Amendments; Waivers. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. By an instrument in writing similarly executed, Executive or a duly authorized officer of the Company, as applicable, may waive compliance by the other Party with any specifically identified provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is obligated to comply with or perform; provided, however, that such waiver shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any other or subsequent failure. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right, remedy, or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy, or power provided herein or by law or in equity.

 

9


(f) Dispute Resolution. Executive agrees that if any disputes should arise between Executive and the Company (including claims against its employees, officers, directors, shareholders, agents, successors, and assigns) relating or pertaining to or arising out of Executive’s employment with the Company, the dispute will be submitted exclusively to binding arbitration before a neutral arbitrator mutually selected by the Company and Executive. This means that disputes will be decided by an arbitrator rather than a court or jury, and that both Executive and the Company waive their respective rights to a court or jury trial. Judgment on the arbitration award may be entered in any court having jurisdiction. Nothing herein shall prevent either Party from pursuing injunctive relief in court (without having to post a bond) to avoid irreparable harm pending completion of any arbitration. Within twenty (20) days of the conclusion of the arbitration hearing, the arbitrator shall prepare written findings of fact and conclusions of law. Each party shall bear its own costs and attorneys’ fees in connection with arbitration; provided that the Company shall pay all costs unique to arbitration, including the arbitrator’s fees and costs, that Executive would not be required to pay if the claim was in court. Executive shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs incurred by Executive in any arbitration Executive initiates to enforce Executive’s rights under this Agreement and in which Executive is deemed to be the prevailing party.

(g) Enforcement. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable under present or future laws, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision had never comprised a portion of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement. Furthermore, in lieu of such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision there shall be added automatically as part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable.

(h) Entire Agreement. The terms of this Agreement are intended by the Parties to be the final expression of their agreement with respect to the employment of Executive by the Company and supersede all prior understandings and agreements, whether written or oral, regarding Executive’s employment with the Company. The Parties further intend that this Agreement shall constitute the complete and exclusive statement of their terms and that no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may be introduced in any judicial, administrative, or other legal proceeding to vary the terms of this Agreement.

(i) Employee Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges that Executive has read and understands this Agreement, is fully aware of its legal effect, has not acted in reliance upon any representations or promises made by the Company other than those contained in writing herein, and has entered into this Agreement freely based on Executive’s own judgment.

(j) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same Agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile shall be deemed effective for all purposes.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

 

10


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris

Name:   Todd Harris
Title:   Chief Executive Officer and President
EXECUTIVE
By:  

/s/ Piyush Patel

Name:   Piyush Patel, Ph.D.
Address:  

 

[Signature Page to Employment Agreement]


APPENDIX I

DEFINITIONS

All defined terms used in this Appendix I that are not otherwise defined in this Appendix I shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Employment Agreement to which this Appendix I relates.

Acquiring Company” shall mean the resulting or surviving corporation, or the company issuing cash or securities (or its ultimate parent company), in a merger consolidation, tender offer or share exchange involving the Company, or the successor corporation to the Company (whether in any such transaction or otherwise).

Cause” shall mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following events or conditions:

(i) any material failure on the part of Executive (other than by reason of Disability of Executive) to faithfully and professionally carry out Executive’s duties which failure continues for ten (10) days after written notice detailing such failure is delivered to Executive by the Company;

(ii) Executive’s dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of the Company;

(iii) Executive’s conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony.

(iv) Executive’s insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Executive to perform the same;

(v) Executive’s material breach of any written agreement with the Company or any of its affiliates or material violation of the Company’s Code of Conduct or any other material written policy of the Company; or

(vi) Any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Executive.

Change in Control” shall mean the occurrence of any of the following events or circumstances:

(i) any “person” (within the meaning of Section 13(d) or 14(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)), including a “group” within the meaning of such Section 13(d) but excluding the Company and any of its subsidiaries and any employee benefit plan sponsored or maintained by the Company or any subsidiary thereof, shall become the “beneficial owner” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing fifty percent (50%) or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors (“Company Voting Securities”);


(ii) the consummation of a merger or consolidation involving the Company, or the acceptance by the stockholders of the Company of equity securities in a share exchange, where the Persons who were the beneficial owners of the Company Voting Securities outstanding immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or share exchange, do not beneficially own, directly or indirectly, immediately after such merger, consolidation or share exchange, securities representing more than fifty percent (50%) of the combined voting power of the then-outstanding Company Voting Securities or voting securities of the Acquiring Company in such merger, consolidation or share exchange, in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or share exchange;

(iii) a sale, exchange or other disposition or transfer (in one transaction or a series of related transactions) of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company; provided, however, that a Change in Control shall not be deemed to have occurred where: (x) the Company sells, exchanges or otherwise disposes or transfers all or substantially all of its assets to another Person which is beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, immediately following such transaction by the holders of Company Voting Securities in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of the Company Voting Securities immediately prior to such transaction; and (y) such Person expressly assumes this Agreement; or

(iv) such time as the Continuing Directors (as defined below) do not constitute at least a majority of the Board (or, if applicable, the board of directors of a successor to the Company), where the term “Continuing Director” means at any date a member of the Board who was: (x) a member of the Board on the Effective Date; or (y) nominated or elected subsequent to the Effective Date by at least a majority of the directors who were Continuing Directors at the time of such nomination or election or whose election to the Board was recommended or endorsed by at least a majority of the directors who were Continuing Directors at the time of such nomination or election (it being understood that no individual whose initial assumption of office occurred as a result of an actual or threatened election contest with respect to the election or removal of directors or other actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board shall be a Continuing Director).

Change in Control Period” shall mean the period commencing three (3) months prior to a Change in Control and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary of the Change in Control.

Disability” shall mean permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

Good Reason” shall mean any one of the following: (i) the material reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in your Annual Base Salary); (ii) a material reduction of Executive’s duties and responsibilities from those in effect on the Effective Date; (iii) the Company’s material breach of this Agreement (other than a reduction of your Annual Base Salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in your Annual Base Salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Executive’s principal place of employment that increases Executive’s one-way


commute by more than thirty-five (35) miles, provided, that, in each case, Executive will not be deemed to have Good Reason unless (A)Executive first provides the Board with written notice of the condition giving rise to Good Reason within thirty (30)days of its initial occurrence, (B)the Company or the successor company fails to cure such condition within ten (10)days after receiving such written notice (the “Cure Period”), and (C)Executive’s resignation based on such Good Reason is effective within thirty (30)days after the expiration of the Cure Period.

Involuntary Termination” shall mean Executive’s termination (A) by the Company without Cause, (B) by Executive for Good Reason, (C) due to death or (D) due to Disability.

Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, or other business entity.

EX-10.12

Exhibit 10.12

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Second Amended and Restated Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into as of August 18, 2021, by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Todd Harris (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”). This Agreement will be effective upon the consummation of the Company’s initial public offering (the “IPO”) of its common stock (the “Effective Date”). In the event the IPO does not occur, this Agreement shall be of no force or effect and the Prior Agreement shall continue. Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have those meanings set forth in Appendix I hereto.

WHEREAS, the Company and Executive are parties to that certain Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated as of January 6, 2020 (the “Prior Agreement”); and

WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive desire to amend the terms of the Employee’s employment with the Company as reflected herein, amending and restating the Prior Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, including the respective covenants and agreements set forth below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Employment.

(a) General. The Company shall continue to employ Executive upon the terms and conditions provided herein effective as of the Effective Date.

(b) Position and Duties. Executive shall serve as the Company’s Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and President, with responsibilities, duties, and authority usual and customary for such positions. During Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive shall report directly to the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) and agrees promptly and faithfully to comply with all present and future policies, requirements, rules and regulations, and reasonable directions and requests, of the Company in connection with the Company’s business. Executive will at all times perform all of the duties and obligations required by Executive under this Agreement in a loyal and conscientious manner and to the best of Executive’s ability and experience.

(c) Performance of Executive’s Duties. During Executive’s employment with the Company, and except for periods of illness, vacation, Disability, or excused leaves of absence, Executive shall devote Executive’s full time and attention to the business and affairs of the Company; provided that nothing herein shall preclude Executive from, subject to prior consent of the Board: (i) engaging in additional activities in connection with personal investments and community affairs including service on non-profit boards of directors; (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors for for-profit organizations that are not competitors of the Company; and (iii) serving as an advisor, or as a member of an advisory board of organizations that are not competitors of the Company; provided such activities do not individually or in the aggregate interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement, violate the Company’s


standards of conduct then in effect or raise a conflict under the Company’s conflict of interest policies.

2. Term. The period of Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall continue until Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated. The phrase “Term of Employment” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the entire period of employment of Executive by the Company.

3. Compensation and Related Matters.

(a) Annual Base Salary. Executive shall receive a base salary at the rate of $550,000 per annum (as may be increased from time to time, the “Annual Base Salary”), subject to withholdings and deductions, which shall be paid to Executive in accordance with the customary payroll practices and procedures of the Company. Such Annual Base Salary shall be reviewed by the Board, not less than annually, and may be increased, but not decreased, in connection with any such review.

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible to receive a discretionary annual bonus (the “Annual Bonus”) based on Executive’s achievement of performance objectives in accordance with the terms set forth by the Board. Executive’s target Annual Bonus shall be equal to 50% of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (the “Target Bonus”). Except as set forth in Section 6, Executive must be employed by the Company on the date of payment of any Annual Bonus to remain eligible to receive such Annual Bonus. Any Annual Bonus earned will be paid at the same time annual bonuses are paid to other executives of the Company generally, subject to any limitations on payment as set forth in Section 6.

(c) Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee and executive benefit plans and programs as the Company may offer from time to time to provide to its executives, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein is intended, or shall be construed, to require the Company to institute or continue any, or any particular, plan, or benefits.

(d) Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket travel and other business expenses incurred by Executive in the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company in accordance with the Company’s applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures as are in effect from time to time.

(e) Vacation; Paid Time Off. Executive will be entitled to vacation or paid time off in accordance with the Company’s policy.

(f) Equity Awards. Executive shall be eligible to receive grants of equity awards in the Company’s sole discretion.

(g) Indemnification Agreement; Insurance. As an officer of the Company, Executive shall be entitled to enter into the Company’s standard indemnification agreement. Executive will also be covered under a directors and officers liability insurance policy paid for by the Company for so long as Executive serves as an officer of the Company.

 

2


4. Acceleration of Equity Awards Upon a Change in Control. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of a Change in Control, the vesting of Executive’s then outstanding options, restricted stock and other equity awards covering shares of the Company’s common stock (collectively, “Equity Awards”) shall accelerate as of immediately prior to such Change in Control with respect to fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to such Equity Awards. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to Executive’s Equity Awards shall continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the Change in Control, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Executive’s Equity Awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the Change in Control shall thereupon vest in full, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through such first anniversary. Notwithstanding the foregoing and for the avoidance of doubt, any shares subject to Equity Awards that do not accelerate immediately prior to the Change in Control in accordance with the foregoing shall be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6(d)(iii) below.

5. Termination.

(a) At-Will Employment. The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and shall continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law. This means that it is not for any specified period of time and can be terminated by Executive or by the Company at any time, with or without advance notice, and for any or no particular reason or cause. It also means that Executive’s job duties, title, and responsibility and reporting level, work schedule, compensation, and benefits, as well as the Company’s personnel policies and procedures, may be changed with prospective effect, with or without notice, at any time in the sole discretion of the Company (subject to any ramification such changes may have under Section 6 of this Agreement). This “at-will” nature of Executive’s employment shall remain unchanged during Executive’s tenure as an employee and may not be changed, except in an express writing signed by Executive and the Board. If Executive’s employment terminates for any lawful reason, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, Equity Awards or other compensation other than as provided in this Agreement.

(b) Notice of Termination. During the Term of Employment, any termination of Executive’s employment by the Company or by Executive (other than by reason of death) shall be communicated by written notice (a “Notice of Termination”) from one Party hereto to the other Party hereto (i) indicating the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, if any, (ii) setting forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated and (iii) specifying the date of the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (the “Date of Termination”). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder. The failure by Executive to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Good Reason shall not waive any right of Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

 

3


(c) Deemed Resignation. Upon termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from all offices and board memberships, if any, then held with the Company or any of its affiliates, and, at the Company’s request, Executive shall execute such documents as are necessary or desirable to effectuate such resignations.

6. Consequences of Termination.

(a) Release. In the event Executive’s employment with the Company terminates pursuant to Section 5, then Executive shall be entitled to the applicable payments and benefits set forth below subject to, in the case of a termination described in Section 6(c) or 6(d), Executive delivering to the Company a waiver and release of claims agreement in standard reasonable form approved by the Company that becomes effective and irrevocable in accordance with Section 7 hereof (a “Release”).

(b) Payments upon Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason. Upon a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause or by Executive without Good Reason, Executive (or Executive’s estate or legal representative, as applicable) shall be entitled to receive: (i) any portion of Executive’s Annual Base Salary earned through Executive’s Date of Termination not theretofore paid; (ii) any reimbursement of expenses owed to Executive under Section 3(e) above; and (iii) any accrued but unused vacation or paid time-off owed to Executive ((i)-(iii) defined as the “Accrued Obligations”). In the event Executive is terminated by the Company for Cause, Executive shall forfeit, effective as of the date Executive engages in such conduct giving rise to his termination for Cause, all unexercised, unearned and/or unpaid Equity Awards, including without limitation, Equity Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing.

(c) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination Outside a Change in Control Period. If, outside a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) twelve months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s Target Bonus for the calendar year in which such Involuntary Termination occurs, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Executive’s Date of Termination;

(iii) fifty percent (50%) of the unvested Equity Awards held by the Executive as of the Date of Termination will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the twelve-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under Section 4980B of the

 

4


Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder (“COBRA”), the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, coverage under its group health plan (if any) at the same coverage levels in effect on the Date of Termination (“Benefits Coverage”); provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal taxable monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(d) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination During a Change in Control Period. If, during a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) eighteen months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) one hundred and fifty percent (150%) of Executive’s Target Bonus for the calendar year in which such Involuntary Termination occurs (for the avoidance of doubt, if (x) Executive incurred an Involuntary Termination prior to a Change in Control that qualifies Executive for severance payments under Section 6(c)(ii); and (y) a Change in Control occurs within the three (3)-month period following Executive’s Involuntary Termination that qualifies Executive for the increased benefits under this Section 6(d)(ii), then Executive shall be entitled to a lump-sum payment of the amount calculated under this Section 6(d)(ii), less any amount already paid under Section 6(c)(ii));

(iii) one hundred percent (100%) of all unvested Equity Awards held by Executive as of the Date of Termination, will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto effective on the later of (x) the Date of Termination or (y) the date of the Change in Control (for the avoidance of doubt, if Executive’s Involuntary Termination occurs prior to a Change in Control, then any unvested portion of Executive’s outstanding Equity Awards will remain outstanding for three (3) months or the occurrence of a Change in Control (whichever is earlier) so that any vesting acceleration benefits provided under this clause (iii) can be provided if a Change in Control occurs within three (3) months following such termination (provided that in no event will the Equity Awards remain outstanding beyond the Equity Award’s maximum term or expiration date. In such case, if no Change in Control occurs within three (3) months following Executive’s termination, any unvested portion of Executive’s Equity Awards automatically will be forfeited without having vested; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive

 

5


becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under COBRA, the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, the Benefits Coverage; provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal taxable monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(e) No Other Severance. The provisions of this Section 6 shall supersede in their entirety any severance payment provisions in any severance plan, policy, program, or other arrangement maintained by the Company except for such additional benefits otherwise approved by the Board or Compensation Committee of the Board after the date hereof.

(f) No Requirement to Mitigate; Survival. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the termination of Executive’s employment shall not impair the rights or obligations of any Party.

7. Release and Payment Timing.

(a) Release. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any payments or other benefits due under this Agreement under Sections 6(c) and 6(d) as a result of Executive’s termination of employment (other than the Accrued Obligations) are subject to Executive’s execution and delivery of a Release, as follows: (i) the Company shall deliver the Release to Executive within five (5) days following Executive’s Date of Termination, and the Company’s failure to deliver a Release prior to the expiration of such five (5) day period shall constitute a waiver of any requirement to execute a Release, (ii) if Executive fails to execute the Release on or prior to the Release Expiration Date (as defined below) or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of the Release thereafter, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release, and (iii) if the Release does not become effective and irrevocable no later than sixty (60) days following the Date of Termination (such deadline, the “Release Deadline”), Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release. For purposes of this Section 7, “Release Expiration Date” shall mean the date that is twenty-one (21) days following the date upon which the Company timely delivers the Release to Executive, or, in the event that Executive’s termination of employment is “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967), the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery date.

 

6


(b) Payment Timing. The payments due under Sections 6(c)(ii) and 6(d)(ii) of this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment shall be paid in a lump sum on the date that is sixty (60) days following the Date of Termination; provided, however, that, in the event of Executive’s Involuntary Termination during the Change in Control Period but prior to a Change in Control, any additional amount payable to Executive under Section 6(d)(ii) in excess of the amounts payable to such Executive under Section 6(c)(ii) shall be paid in a lump sum on the date that is sixty (60) days following the later of (x) the Date of Termination, or (y) the date of the Change in Control.

8. Non-Solicitation of Employees. For a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall not, either directly or indirectly (a) solicit for employment through any individual, corporation, firm, or other business, any employees, consultants, independent contractors, or other service providers of the Company or any of its affiliates, or (b) solicit any employee, consultant or other service provider of the Company or any of its affiliates to leave the employment or consulting of or cease providing services to the Company or any of its affiliates; provided, however, that the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) shall not apply to inbound inquiries or any general advertisement or solicitation (or any hiring pursuant to such advertisement or solicitation) that is not specifically targeted to such employees, consultants or other service providers.

9. Golden Parachute Excise Tax.

(a) Best Pay. Any provision of this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment or benefit Executive would receive from the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payment”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this sentence, be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such Payment will be equal to the Reduced Amount (as defined below). The “Reduced Amount” will be either (A) the largest portion of the Payment that would result in no portion of the Payment (after reduction) being subject to the Excise Tax or (B) the entire Payment, whichever amount after taking into account all applicable federal, state, and local employment taxes, income taxes, and the Excise Tax (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from a deduction of such state and local taxes), results in Executive’ s receipt, on an after-tax basis, of the greater economic benefit notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Payment may be subject to the Excise Tax. If a reduction in a Payment is required pursuant to the preceding sentence and the Reduced Amount is determined pursuant to clause (A) of the preceding sentence, the reduction shall occur in the manner (the “Reduction Method”) that results in the greatest economic benefit for Executive. If more than one method of reduction will result in the same economic benefit, the items so reduced will be reduced pro rata (the “Pro Rata Reduction Method”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Reduction Method or the Pro Rata Reduction Method would result in any portion of the Payment being subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A (as defined below) that would not otherwise be subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A, then the Reduction Method and/or the Pro Rata Reduction Method, as the case may be, shall be modified so as to avoid the imposition of taxes pursuant to Section 409A as follows: (1) as a first priority, the modification shall preserve to the greatest extent possible, the greatest economic benefit for Executive as determined on an after-tax basis; (2) as a second priority, Payments that are contingent on future events (e.g., being terminated without cause), shall be reduced (or eliminated)

 

7


before Payments that are not contingent on future events; and (3) as a third priority, Payments that are “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A.

(b) Accounting Firm. All determinations regarding the application of this Section 9 shall be made by an independent accounting firm or consulting group with nationally recognized standing and substantial expertise and experience in performing calculations regarding the applicability of Section 280G of the Code and the Excise Tax retained by the Company prior to the date of the applicable change in ownership or control (the “280G Firm”). The Company will bear all expenses with respect to the determinations by the 280G Firm required to be made hereunder. The 280G Firm engaged to make the determinations hereunder will provide its calculations, together with detailed supporting documentation, to the Company within thirty (30) days before the consummation of a Change in Control (if requested at that time by the Company) or such other time as requested by the Company. If the 280G Firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable with respect to a Payment, either before or after the application of the Reduced Amount, it will furnish the Company with documentation reasonably acceptable to the Company that no Excise Tax will be imposed with respect to such Payment. Any good faith determinations of the 280G Firm made hereunder will be final, binding and conclusive upon the Company and Executive.

10. Section 409A.

(a) General. The intent of the Parties is that the payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date, (“Section 409A”) and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted to be in compliance therewith. If Executive notifies the Company that Executive has received advice of tax counsel of a national reputation with expertise in Section 409A that any provision of this Agreement would cause Executive to incur any additional tax or interest under Section 409A (with specificity as to the reason therefor) or the Company independently makes such determination, the Company and Executive shall take commercially reasonable efforts to reform such provision to try to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A through good faith modifications to the minimum extent reasonably appropriate to conform with Section 409A, provided that any such modifications shall not increase the cost or liability to the Company. To the extent that any provision hereof is modified in order to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A, such modification shall be made in good faith and shall, to the maximum extent reasonably possible, maintain the original intent and economic benefit to Executive and the Company of the applicable provision without violating the provisions of Section 409A.

(b) Separation from Service. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Agreement: (i) no amount that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A shall be payable pursuant to Section 6(c) or Section 6(d) above unless the termination of Executive’s employment constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Department of Treasury Regulations (“Separation from Service”); (ii) for purposes of Section 409A, Executive’s right to receive installment payments shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments; and (iii) to the extent that any reimbursement of

 

8


expenses or in-kind benefits constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A, such reimbursement or benefit shall be provided no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the expense was incurred. The amount of expenses reimbursed in one year shall not affect the amount eligible for reimbursement in any subsequent year. The amount of any in-kind benefits provided in one year shall not affect the amount of in-kind benefits provided in any other year.

(c) Specified Employee. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if Executive is deemed by the Company at the time of Executive’s Separation from Service to be a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A, to the extent delayed commencement of any portion of the benefits to which Executive is entitled under this Agreement is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Section 409A, such portion of Executive’s benefits shall not be provided to Executive prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6)-month period measured from the date of Executive’s Separation from Service with the Company or (ii) the date of Executive’s death. Upon the first business day following the expiration of the applicable Section 409A period, all payments deferred pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries), and any remaining payments due to Executive under this Agreement shall be paid as otherwise provided herein.

11. Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement any federal, state, local, or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which the Company is required to withhold. The Company shall be entitled to rely on an opinion of counsel if any questions as to the amount or requirement of withholding shall arise.

12. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) Prior Employment. Executive represents and warrants that Executive’s acceptance of employment with the Company has not breached, and the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder will not breach, any duty owed by Executive to any prior employer or other person. Executive further represents and warrants to the Company that: (a) the performance of Executive’s obligations hereunder will not violate any agreement between Executive and any other person, firm, organization, or other entity; (b) Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party to refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or other party that would be violated by Executive entering into this Agreement and/or providing services to the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; and (c) Executive’s performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement will not require Executive to, and Executive shall not, rely on in the performance of Executive’s duties or disclose to the Company or any other person or entity or induce the Company in any way to use or rely on any trade secret or other confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer of Executive.

(b) Assignment and Successors. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor to all or substantially all of the business or the assets of the Company (by merger or otherwise). This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, Executive, and their respective successors, assigns, personnel, and legal representatives, executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees, as applicable. None of Executive’s rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred by Executive,

 

9


other than Executive’s rights to payments hereunder, which may be transferred only by will, operation of law, or as otherwise provided herein.

(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, construed, interpreted, and enforced in accordance with its express terms, and otherwise in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of California, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law, whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction, and where applicable, the laws of the United States, that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction.

(d) Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

(e) Amendments: Waivers. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. By an instrument in writing similarly executed, Executive or a duly authorized officer of the Company, as applicable, may waive compliance by the other Party with any specifically identified provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is obligated to comply with or perform; provided, however, that such waiver shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any other or subsequent failure. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right, remedy, or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy, or power provided herein or by law or in equity.

(f) Dispute Resolution. Unless otherwise prohibited by law or specified below, all disputes, claims and causes of action, in law or equity, arising from or relating to this Agreement or its enforcement, performance, breach, or interpretation shall be resolved solely and exclusively by final and binding arbitration held in San Diego, California, before a single, mutually-agreed neutral arbitrator, through Judicial Arbitration & Mediation Services (“JAMS”) under the then existing JAMS arbitration rules. The rules may be found online at www.jamsadr.com or upon written request to the Company. This Section 12(f) is intended to be the exclusive method for resolving any and all claims by the Parties against each other relating to Executive’s employment; provided that Executive will retain the right to file administrative charges with or seek relief through any government agency of competent jurisdiction, and to participate in any government investigation, including but not limited to (i) claims for workers’ compensation, state disability insurance or unemployment insurance; (ii) claims for unpaid wages or waiting time penalties brought before the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (provided that any appeal from an award or from denial of an award of wages and/or waiting time penalties shall be arbitrated pursuant to the terms of this paragraph); and (iii) claims for administrative relief from the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and/or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (or any similar agency in any applicable jurisdiction other than California); provided, further, that, except as otherwise provided by law, Executive will not be entitled to obtain any monetary relief through such agencies other than workers’ compensation benefits or unemployment insurance benefits. Further, nothing in this Section 12(f) is intended to prevent either Party from obtaining injunctive relief in court to prevent irreparable harm pending the conclusion of any such arbitration, including without limitation injunctive relief, in any court of competent jurisdiction pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure §1281.8 or any similar statute of an applicable jurisdiction. Seeking any such relief shall not be deemed to be a waiver of

 

10


such Party’s right to compel arbitration. In resolving any matter submitted to arbitration, the arbitrator will strictly follow the substantive law applicable to the dispute, claim or controversy and the arbitrator’s authority and jurisdiction will be limited to determining the dispute in conformity with applicable law as to liability, damages and remedies, to the same extent as if the dispute was determined by a court without a jury. The arbitrator will issue a written decision that contains the essential findings of fact and conclusions of law on which the decision is based, which may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction. The Company shall pay all costs of arbitration, including without limitation, arbitration administrative fees, arbitrator compensation and expenses, and costs of any witnesses called by the arbitrator. Unless otherwise ordered by the arbitrator under applicable law, the Company and Executive shall each bear its or his own expenses, such as attorneys’ fees, costs and disbursements. The prevailing party in any arbitration or other dispute between the parties will be entitled to an award of attorneys’ fees and costs, in addition to any other relief. Each Party warrants that it has had the opportunity to be represented by counsel in the negotiation and execution of this Agreement, including the attorneys’ fees provision herein. Both Executive and the Company expressly waive his and its right to a jury trial. Executive furthers waives his right to pursue claims against the Company on a class basis; provided, however, that Executive does not waive his right, to the extent preserved by law, to pursue representative claims against the Company under the California Private Attorney General Act.

(g) Enforcement. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable under present or future laws, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision had never comprised a portion of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement. Furthermore, in lieu of such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision there shall be added automatically as part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable.

(h) Entire Agreement. The terms of this Agreement are intended by the Parties to be the final expression of their agreement with respect to the employment of Executive by the Company and supersede all prior understandings and agreements, whether written or oral, regarding Executive’s employment with the Company. The Parties further intend that this Agreement shall constitute the complete and exclusive statement of their terms and that no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may be introduced in any judicial, administrative, or other legal proceeding to vary the terms of this Agreement.

(i) Prior Agreement. This Agreement supersedes the Prior Agreement and all prior or contemporaneous agreements and statements, whether written or oral, concerning the terms of Executive’s employment with the Company.

(j) Executive Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges that Executive has read and understands this Agreement, is fully aware of its legal effect, has not acted in reliance upon any representations or promises made by the Company other than those contained in writing herein, and has entered into this Agreement freely based on Executive’s own judgment.

 

11


(k) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same Agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile shall be deemed effective for all purposes.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

12


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Esther van den Boom

Name:  

Esther van den Boom

Title:  

Chief Financial Officer

EXECUTIVE
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris, Ph.D.

Name:   Todd Harris, Ph.D.

 

[Signature Page to Second Amended and Restated Employment Agreement]


APPENDIX I

DEFINITIONS

All defined terms used in this Appendix I that are not otherwise defined in this Appendix I shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Amended and Restated Employment Agreement to which this Appendix I relates.

Cause” shall mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following events or conditions:

(i) any material failure on the part of Executive (other than by reason of Disability of Executive) to faithfully and professionally carry out Executive’s duties which failure continues for ten (10) days after written notice detailing such failure is delivered to Executive by the Company;

(ii) Executive’s dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of the Company;

(iii) Executive’s conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony.

(iv) Executive’s insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Executive to perform the same;

(v) Executive’s material breach of any written agreement with the Company or any of its affiliates or material violation of the Company’s Code of Conduct or any other material written policy of the Company; or

(vi) Any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Executive.

Change in Control” shall have the meaning given to such term in the Company’s 2021 Incentive Award Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a Change in Control constitutes a payment event with respect to any amount hereunder that provides for the deferral of compensation that is subject to Section 409A, to the extent required to avoid the imposition of additional taxes under Section 409A, the transaction or event shall only constitute a Change in Control for purposes of the payment timing of such amount if such transaction also constitutes a “change in control event,” as defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5).

Change in Control Period” shall mean the period commencing three (3) months prior to a Change in Control and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary of the Change in Control.

Disability” shall mean permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

Good Reason” shall mean any one of the following: (i) the material reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion

 

Appendix I-1


as the reduction in Executive’s Annual Base Salary); (ii) a material reduction of Executive’s duties and responsibilities from those in effect on the Effective Date; (iii) the Company’s material breach of this Agreement (other than a reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in Executive’s Annual Base Salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Executive’s principal place of employment that increases Executive’s one-way commute by more than thirty-five (35) miles, provided, that, in each case, Executive will not be deemed to have Good Reason unless (A) Executive first provides the Board with written notice of the condition giving rise to Good Reason within thirty (30)days of its initial occurrence, (B) the Company or the successor company fails to cure such condition within ten (10) days after receiving such written notice (the “Cure Period”), and (C) Executive’s resignation based on such Good Reason is effective within thirty (30)days after the expiration of the Cure Period.

Involuntary Termination” shall mean Executive’s termination (A) by the Company without Cause, (B) by Executive for Good Reason, (C) due to death or (D) due to Disability.

Person shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, or other business entity.

 

Appendix I-2

EX-10.13

Exhibit 10.13

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

SECOND AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Second Amended and Restated Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into as of August 18, 2021, by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Daniel Bensen (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”). This Agreement will be effective upon the consummation of the Company’s initial public offering (the “IPO”) of its common stock (the “Effective Date”). In the event the IPO does not occur, this Agreement shall be of no force or effect and the Prior Agreement shall continue. Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have those meanings set forth in Appendix I hereto.

WHEREAS, the Company and Executive are parties to that certain Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated as of January 6, 2020 (the “Prior Agreement”); and

WHEREAS, the Company and the Executive desire to amend the terms of the Employee’s employment with the Company as reflected herein, amending and restating the Prior Agreement.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, including the respective covenants and agreements set forth below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Employment.

(a) General. The Company shall continue to employ Executive upon the terms and conditions provided herein effective as of the Effective Date.

(b) Position and Duties. Executive shall serve as the Company’s Chief Operating Officer (“COO”), with responsibilities, duties, and authority usual and customary for such position subject to direction by the Chief Executive Officer (the “CEO”). During Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive shall report directly to the CEO and agrees promptly and faithfully to comply with all present and future policies, requirements, rules and regulations, and reasonable directions and requests, of the Company in connection with the Company’s business. Executive will at all times perform all of the duties and obligations required by Executive under this Agreement in a loyal and conscientious manner and to the best of Executive’s ability and experience.

(c) Performance of Executive’s Duties. During Executive’s employment with the Company, and except for periods of illness, vacation, Disability, or excused leaves of absence, Executive shall devote Executive’s full time and attention to the business and affairs of the Company pursuant to the general direction of the CEO; provided that nothing herein shall preclude Executive from, subject to prior consent of the CEO: (i) engaging in additional activities in connection with personal investments and community affairs including service on non-profit boards of directors; (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors for for-profit organizations that are not competitors of the Company; and (iii) serving as an advisor, or as a member of an advisory board of organizations that are not competitors of the Company; provided such activities do not individually or in the aggregate interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under


this Agreement, violate the Company’s standards of conduct then in effect or raise a conflict under the Company’s conflict of interest policies.

2. Term. The period of Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall continue until Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated. The phrase “Term of Employment” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the entire period of employment of Executive by the Company.

3. Compensation and Related Matters.

(a) Annual Base Salary. Executive shall receive a base salary at the rate of $410,000 per annum (as may be increased from time to time, the “Annual Base Salary”), subject to withholdings and deductions, which shall be paid to Executive in accordance with the customary payroll practices and procedures of the Company. Such Annual Base Salary shall be reviewed by the CEO, and as applicable, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”), not less than annually, and may be increased, but not decreased, in connection with any such review.

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible to receive a discretionary annual bonus (the “Annual Bonus”) based on Executive’s achievement of performance objectives in accordance with the terms set forth by the Board. Executive’s target Annual Bonus shall be equal to 40% of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (the “Target Bonus”). Except as set forth in Section 6, Executive must be employed by the Company on the date of payment of any Annual Bonus to remain eligible to receive such Annual Bonus. Any Annual Bonus earned will be paid at the same time annual bonuses are paid to other executives of the Company generally, subject to any limitations on payment as set forth in Section 6.

(c) Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee and executive benefit plans and programs as the Company may offer from time to time to provide to its executives, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein is intended, or shall be construed, to require the Company to institute or continue any, or any particular, plan, or benefits.

(d) Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket travel and other business expenses incurred by Executive in the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company in accordance with the Company’s applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures as are in effect from time to time.

(e) Vacation; Paid Time Off. Executive will be entitled to vacation or paid time off in accordance with the Company’s policy.

(f) Equity Awards. Executive shall be eligible to receive grants of equity awards in the Company’s sole discretion.

(g) Indemnification Agreement; Insurance. As an officer of the Company, Executive shall be entitled to enter into the Company’s standard indemnification agreement. Executive will also be covered under a directors and officers liability insurance policy paid for by the Company for so long as Executive serves as an officer of the Company.

 

2


4. Acceleration of Equity Awards Upon a Change in Control. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of a Change in Control, the vesting of Executive’s then outstanding options, restricted stock and other equity awards covering shares of the Company’s common stock (collectively, “Equity Awards”) shall accelerate as of immediately prior to such Change in Control with respect to fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to such Equity Awards. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to Executive’s Equity Awards shall continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the Change in Control, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Executive’s Equity Awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the Change in Control shall thereupon vest in full, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through such first anniversary. Notwithstanding the foregoing and for the avoidance of doubt, any shares subject to Equity Awards that do not accelerate immediately prior to the Change in Control in accordance with the foregoing shall be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6(d)(iii) below.

5. Termination.

(a) At-Will Employment. The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and shall continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law. This means that it is not for any specified period of time and can be terminated by Executive or by the Company at any time, with or without advance notice, and for any or no particular reason or cause. It also means that Executive’s job duties, title, and responsibility and reporting level, work schedule, compensation, and benefits, as well as the Company’s personnel policies and procedures, may be changed with prospective effect, with or without notice, at any time in the sole discretion of the Company (subject to any ramification such changes may have under Section 6 of this Agreement). This “at-will” nature of Executive’s employment shall remain unchanged during Executive’s tenure as an employee and may not be changed, except in an express writing signed by Executive and the CEO. If Executive’s employment terminates for any lawful reason, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, Equity Awards or other compensation other than as provided in this Agreement.

(b) Notice of Termination. During the Term of Employment, any termination of Executive’s employment by the Company or by Executive (other than by reason of death) shall be communicated by written notice (a “Notice of Termination”) from one Party hereto to the other Party hereto (i) indicating the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, if any, (ii) setting forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated and (iii) specifying the date of the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (the “Date of Termination”). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder. The failure by Executive to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Good Reason shall not waive any right of Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

 

3


(c) Deemed Resignation. Upon termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from all offices and board memberships, if any, then held with the Company or any of its affiliates, and, at the Company’s request, Executive shall execute such documents as are necessary or desirable to effectuate such resignations.

6. Consequences of Termination.

(a) Release. In the event Executive’s employment with the Company terminates pursuant to Section 5, then Executive shall be entitled to the applicable payments and benefits set forth below subject to, in the case of a termination in Section 6(c) or 6(d), Executive delivering to the Company a waiver and release of claims agreement in standard reasonable form approved by the Company that becomes effective and irrevocable in accordance with Section 7 hereof (a “Release”).

(b) Payments upon Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason. Upon a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause or by Executive without Good Reason, Executive (or Executive’s estate or legal representative, as applicable) shall be entitled to receive, within thirty (30) days of the effective date of termination of employment with the Company (whether such termination of employment is effected by the Company or Executive) (or such earlier date as may be required by applicable law): (i) any portion of Executive’s Annual Base Salary earned through Executive’s Date of Termination not theretofore paid; (ii) any reimbursement of expenses owed to Executive under Section 3(e) above; and (iii) any accrued but unused vacation or paid time-off owed to Executive ((i)-(iii) defined as the “Accrued Obligations”). In the event Executive is terminated by the Company for Cause, Executive shall forfeit, effective as of the date Executive engages in such conduct giving rise to his termination for Cause, all unexercised, unearned and/or unpaid Equity Awards, including without limitation, Equity Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing.

(c) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination Outside a Change in Control Period. If, outside a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) twelve months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s Target Bonus for the calendar year in which such Involuntary Termination occurs, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Executive’s Date of Termination;

(iii) fifty percent (50%) of the unvested Equity Awards held by the Executive as of the Date of Termination will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the twelve-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes

 

4


eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder (“COBRA”), the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, coverage under its group health plan (if any) at the same coverage levels in effect on the Date of Termination (“Benefits Coverage”); provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal taxable monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(d) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination During a Change in Control Period. If, during a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) eighteen months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) one hundred percent (100%) of Executive’s Target Bonus for the calendar year in which such Involuntary Termination occurs (for the avoidance of doubt, if (x) Executive incurred an Involuntary Termination prior to a Change in Control that qualifies Executive for severance payments under Section 6(c)(ii); and (y) a Change in Control occurs within the three (3)-month period following Executive’s Involuntary Termination that qualifies Executive for the increased benefits under this Section 6(d)(ii), then Executive shall be entitled to a lump-sum payment of the amount calculated under this Section 6(d)(ii), less any amount already paid under Section 6(c)(ii)); ;

(iii) one hundred percent (100%) of all unvested Equity Awards held by Executive as of the Date of Termination, will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto effective on the later of (x) the Date of Termination or (y) the date of the Change in Control (for the avoidance of doubt, if Executive’s Involuntary Termination occurs prior to a Change in Control, then any unvested portion of Executive’s outstanding Equity Awards will remain outstanding for three (3) months or the occurrence of a Change in Control (whichever is earlier) so that any vesting acceleration benefits provided under this clause (iii) can be provided if a Change in Control occurs within three (3) months following such termination (provided that in no event will the Equity Awards remain outstanding beyond the Equity Award’s maximum term or expiration date. In such case, if no Change in Control occurs within three (3) months following Executive’s termination, any unvested portion of Executive’s Equity Awards automatically will be forfeited without having vested; and

 

5


(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the first anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under COBRA, the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, the Benefits Coverage; provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal taxable monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(e) No Other Severance. The provisions of this Section 6 shall supersede in their entirety any severance payment provisions in any severance plan, policy, program, or other arrangement maintained by the Company except for such additional benefits otherwise approved by the Board or Compensation Committee of the Board after the date hereof.

(f) No Requirement to Mitigate; Survival. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the termination of Executive’s employment shall not impair the rights or obligations of any Party.

7. Release and Payment Timing.

(a) Release. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any payments or other benefits due under this Agreement under Sections 6(c) and 6(d) as a result of Executive’s termination of employment (other than the Accrued Obligations) are subject to Executive’s execution and delivery of a Release, as follows: (i) the Company shall deliver the Release to Executive within five (5) days following Executive’s Date of Termination, and the Company’s failure to deliver a Release prior to the expiration of such five (5) day period shall constitute a waiver of any requirement to execute a Release, (ii) if Executive fails to execute the Release on or prior to the Release Expiration Date (as defined below) or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of the Release thereafter, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release, and (iii) if the Release does not become effective and irrevocable no later than sixty (60) days following the Date of Termination (such deadline, the “Release Deadline”), Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release. For purposes of this Section 7, “Release Expiration Date” shall mean the date that is twenty-one (21) days following the date upon which the Company timely delivers the Release to Executive, or, in the event that Executive’s termination of employment is “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967), the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery date.

 

6


(b) Payment Timing. The payments due under Sections 6(c)(ii) and 6(d)(ii) of this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment shall be paid in a lump sum on the date that is sixty (60) days following the Date of Termination; provided, however, that, in the event of Executive’s Involuntary Termination during the Change in Control Period but prior to a Change in Control, any additional amount payable to Executive under Section 6(d)(ii) in excess of the amounts payable to such Executive under Section 6(c)(ii) shall be paid in a lump sum on the date that is sixty (60) days following the later of (x) the Date of Termination, or (y) the date of the Change in Control.

8. Non-Solicitation of Employees. For a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall not, either directly or indirectly (a) solicit for employment through any individual, corporation, firm, or other business, any employees, consultants, independent contractors, or other service providers of the Company or any of its affiliates, or (b) solicit any employee, consultant or other service provider of the Company or any of its affiliates to leave the employment or consulting of or cease providing services to the Company or any of its affiliates; provided, however, that the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) shall not apply to inbound inquiries or any general advertisement or solicitation (or any hiring pursuant to such advertisement or solicitation) that is not specifically targeted to such employees, consultants or other service providers.

9. Golden Parachute Excise Tax.

(a) Best Pay. Any provision of this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment or benefit Executive would receive from the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payment”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this sentence, be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such Payment will be equal to the Reduced Amount (as defined below). The “Reduced Amount” will be either (A) the largest portion of the Payment that would result in no portion of the Payment (after reduction) being subject to the Excise Tax or (B) the entire Payment, whichever amount after taking into account all applicable federal, state, and local employment taxes, income taxes, and the Excise Tax (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from a deduction of such state and local taxes), results in Executive’ s receipt, on an after-tax basis, of the greater economic benefit notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Payment may be subject to the Excise Tax. If a reduction in a Payment is required pursuant to the preceding sentence and the Reduced Amount is determined pursuant to clause (A) of the preceding sentence, the reduction shall occur in the manner (the “Reduction Method”) that results in the greatest economic benefit for Executive. If more than one method of reduction will result in the same economic benefit, the items so reduced will be reduced pro rata (the “Pro Rata Reduction Method”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Reduction Method or the Pro Rata Reduction Method would result in any portion of the Payment being subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A (as defined below) that would not otherwise be subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A, then the Reduction Method and/or the Pro Rata Reduction Method, as the case may be, shall be modified so as to avoid the imposition of taxes pursuant to Section 409A as follows: (1) as a first priority, the modification shall preserve to the greatest extent possible, the greatest economic benefit for Executive as determined on an after-tax basis; (2) as a second priority, Payments that are contingent on future events (e.g., being terminated without cause), shall be reduced (or eliminated)

 

7


before Payments that are not contingent on future events; and (3) as a third priority, Payments that are “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A.

(b) Accounting Firm. All determinations regarding the application of this Section 9 shall be made by an independent accounting firm or consulting group with nationally recognized standing and substantial expertise and experience in performing calculations regarding the applicability of Section 280G of the Code and the Excise Tax retained by the Company prior to the date of the applicable change in ownership or control (the “280G Firm”). The Company will bear all expenses with respect to the determinations by the 280G Firm required to be made hereunder. The 280G Firm engaged to make the determinations hereunder will provide its calculations, together with detailed supporting documentation, to the Company within thirty (30) days before the consummation of a Change in Control (if requested at that time by the Company) or such other time as requested by the Company. If the 280G Firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable with respect to a Payment, either before or after the application of the Reduced Amount, it will furnish the Company with documentation reasonably acceptable to the Company that no Excise Tax will be imposed with respect to such Payment. Any good faith determinations of the 280G Firm made hereunder will be final, binding and conclusive upon the Company and Executive..

10. Section 409A.

(a) General. The intent of the Parties is that the payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date, (“Section 409A”) and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted to be in compliance therewith. If Executive notifies the Company that Executive has received advice of tax counsel of a national reputation with expertise in Section 409A that any provision of this Agreement would cause Executive to incur any additional tax or interest under Section 409A (with specificity as to the reason therefor) or the Company independently makes such determination, the Company and Executive shall take commercially reasonable efforts to reform such provision to try to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A through good faith modifications to the minimum extent reasonably appropriate to conform with Section 409A, provided that any such modifications shall not increase the cost or liability to the Company. To the extent that any provision hereof is modified in order to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A, such modification shall be made in good faith and shall, to the maximum extent reasonably possible, maintain the original intent and economic benefit to Executive and the Company of the applicable provision without violating the provisions of Section 409A.

(b) Separation from Service. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Agreement: (i) no amount that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A shall be payable pursuant to Section 6(c) or Section 6(d) above unless the termination of Executive’s employment constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Department of Treasury Regulations (“Separation from Service”); (ii) for purposes of Section 409A, Executive’s right to receive installment payments shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments; and (iii) to the extent that any reimbursement of

 

8


expenses or in-kind benefits constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A, such reimbursement or benefit shall be provided no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the expense was incurred. The amount of expenses reimbursed in one year shall not affect the amount eligible for reimbursement in any subsequent year. The amount of any in-kind benefits provided in one year shall not affect the amount of in-kind benefits provided in any other year.

(c) Specified Employee. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if Executive is deemed by the Company at the time of Executive’s Separation from Service to be a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A, to the extent delayed commencement of any portion of the benefits to which Executive is entitled under this Agreement is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Section 409A, such portion of Executive’s benefits shall not be provided to Executive prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6)-month period measured from the date of Executive’s Separation from Service with the Company or (ii) the date of Executive’s death. Upon the first business day following the expiration of the applicable Section 409A period, all payments deferred pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries), and any remaining payments due to Executive under this Agreement shall be paid as otherwise provided herein.

11. Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement any federal, state, local, or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which the Company is required to withhold. The Company shall be entitled to rely on an opinion of counsel if any questions as to the amount or requirement of withholding shall arise.

12. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) Prior Employment. Executive represents and warrants that Executive’s acceptance of employment with the Company has not breached, and the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder will not breach, any duty owed by Executive to any prior employer or other person. Executive further represents and warrants to the Company that: (a) the performance of Executive’s obligations hereunder will not violate any agreement between Executive and any other person, firm, organization, or other entity; (b) Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party to refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or other party that would be violated by Executive entering into this Agreement and/or providing services to the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; and (c) Executive’s performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement will not require Executive to, and Executive shall not, rely on in the performance of Executive’s duties or disclose to the Company or any other person or entity or induce the Company in any way to use or rely on any trade secret or other confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer of Executive.

(b) Assignment and Successors. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor to all or substantially all of the business or the assets of the Company (by merger or otherwise). This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, Executive, and their respective successors, assigns, personnel, and legal representatives, executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees, as applicable. None of Executive’s rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred by Executive,

 

9


other than Executive’s rights to payments hereunder, which may be transferred only by will, operation of law, or as otherwise provided herein.

(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, construed, interpreted, and enforced in accordance with its express terms, and otherwise in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of California, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law, whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction, and where applicable, the laws of the United States, that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction.

(d) Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

(e) Amendments; Waivers. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. By an instrument in writing similarly executed, Executive or a duly authorized officer of the Company, as applicable, may waive compliance by the other Party with any specifically identified provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is obligated to comply with or perform; provided, however, that such waiver shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any other or subsequent failure. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right, remedy, or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy, or power provided herein or by law or in equity.

(f) Dispute Resolution. Unless otherwise prohibited by law or specified below, all disputes, claims and causes of action, in law or equity, arising from or relating to this Agreement or its enforcement, performance, breach, or interpretation shall be resolved solely and exclusively by final and binding arbitration held in San Diego, California, before a single, mutually-agreed neutral arbitrator, through Judicial Arbitration & Mediation Services (“JAMS”) under the then existing JAMS arbitration rules. The rules may be found online at www.jamsadr.com or upon written request to the Company. This Section 12(f) is intended to be the exclusive method for resolving any and all claims by the Parties against each other relating to Executive’s employment; provided that Executive will retain the right to file administrative charges with or seek relief through any government agency of competent jurisdiction, and to participate in any government investigation, including but not limited to (i) claims for workers’ compensation, state disability insurance or unemployment insurance; (ii) claims for unpaid wages or waiting time penalties brought before the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (provided that any appeal from an award or from denial of an award of wages and/or waiting time penalties shall be arbitrated pursuant to the terms of this paragraph); and (iii) claims for administrative relief from the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and/or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (or any similar agency in any applicable jurisdiction other than California); provided, further, that, except as otherwise provided by law, Executive will not be entitled to obtain any monetary relief through such agencies other than workers’ compensation benefits or unemployment insurance benefits. Further, nothing in this Section 12(f) is intended to prevent either Party from obtaining injunctive relief in court to prevent irreparable harm pending the conclusion of any such arbitration, including without limitation injunctive relief, in any court of competent jurisdiction pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure §1281.8 or any similar statute of an applicable jurisdiction. Seeking any such relief shall not be deemed to be a waiver of

 

10


such Party’s right to compel arbitration. In resolving any matter submitted to arbitration, the arbitrator will strictly follow the substantive law applicable to the dispute, claim or controversy and the arbitrator’s authority and jurisdiction will be limited to determining the dispute in conformity with applicable law as to liability, damages and remedies, to the same extent as if the dispute was determined by a court without a jury. The arbitrator will issue a written decision that contains the essential findings of fact and conclusions of law on which the decision is based, which may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction. The Company shall pay all costs of arbitration, including without limitation, arbitration administrative fees, arbitrator compensation and expenses, and costs of any witnesses called by the arbitrator. Unless otherwise ordered by the arbitrator under applicable law, the Company and Executive shall each bear its or his own expenses, such as attorneys’ fees, costs and disbursements. The prevailing party in any arbitration or other dispute between the parties will be entitled to an award of attorneys’ fees and costs, in addition to any other relief. Each Party warrants that it has had the opportunity to be represented by counsel in the negotiation and execution of this Agreement, including the attorneys’ fees provision herein. Both Executive and the Company expressly waive his and its right to a jury trial. Executive furthers waives his right to pursue claims against the Company on a class basis; provided, however, that Executive does not waive his right, to the extent preserved by law, to pursue representative claims against the Company under the California Private Attorney General Act.

(g) Enforcement. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable under present or future laws, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision had never comprised a portion of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement. Furthermore, in lieu of such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision there shall be added automatically as part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable.

(h) Entire Agreement. The terms of this Agreement are intended by the Parties to be the final expression of their agreement with respect to the employment of Executive by the Company and supersede all prior understandings and agreements, whether written or oral, regarding Executive’s employment with the Company. The Parties further intend that this Agreement shall constitute the complete and exclusive statement of their terms and that no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may be introduced in any judicial, administrative, or other legal proceeding to vary the terms of this Agreement.

(i) Prior Agreement. This Agreement supersedes the Prior Agreement and all prior or contemporaneous agreements and statements, whether written or oral, concerning the terms of Executive’s employment with the Company.

(j) Executive Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges that Executive has read and understands this Agreement, is fully aware of its legal effect, has not acted in reliance upon any representations or promises made by the Company other than those contained in writing herein, and has entered into this Agreement freely based on Executive’s own judgment.

 

11


(k) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same Agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile shall be deemed effective for all purposes.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

12


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris, Ph.D.

Name:   Todd Harris, Ph.D.
Title:   Chief Executive Officer
EXECUTIVE
By:  

/s/ Daniel Bensen

Name:   Daniel Bensen

 

[Signature Page to Second Amended and Restated Employment Agreement]


APPENDIX I

DEFINITIONS

All defined terms used in this Appendix I that are not otherwise defined in this Appendix I shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Amended and Restated Employment Agreement to which this Appendix I relates.

Cause” shall mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following events or conditions:

(i) any material failure on the part of Executive (other than by reason of Disability of Executive) to faithfully and professionally carry out Executive’s duties which failure continues for ten (10) days after written notice detailing such failure is delivered to Executive by the Company;

(ii) Executive’s dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of the Company;

(iii) Executive’s conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony.

(iv) Executive’s insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Executive to perform the same;

(v) Executive’s material breach of any written agreement with the Company or any of its affiliates or material violation of the Company’s Code of Conduct or any other material written policy of the Company; or

(vi) Any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Executive.

Change in Control” shall have the meaning given to such term in the Company’s 2021 Incentive Award Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a Change in Control constitutes a payment event with respect to any amount hereunder that provides for the deferral of compensation that is subject to Section 409A, to the extent required to avoid the imposition of additional taxes under Section 409A, the transaction or event shall only constitute a Change in Control for purposes of the payment timing of such amount if such transaction also constitutes a “change in control event,” as defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5).

Change in Control Period” shall mean the period commencing three (3) months prior to a Change in Control and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary of the Change in Control.

Disability” shall mean permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

Good Reason” shall mean any one of the following: (i) the material reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all


other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in Executive’s Annual Base Salary); (ii) a material reduction of Executive’s duties and responsibilities from those in effect on the Effective Date; (iii) the Company’s material breach of this Agreement (other than a reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in Executive’s Annual Base Salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Executive’s principal place of employment that increases Executive’s one-way commute by more than thirty-five (35) miles, provided, that, in each case, Executive will not be deemed to have Good Reason unless (A)Executive first provides the Board with written notice of the condition giving rise to Good Reason within thirty (30)days of its initial occurrence, (B)the Company or the successor company fails to cure such condition within ten (10)days after receiving such written notice (the “Cure Period”), and (C)Executive’s resignation based on such Good Reason is effective within thirty (30)days after the expiration of the Cure Period.

Involuntary Termination” shall mean Executive’s termination (A) by the Company without Cause, (B) by Executive for Good Reason, (C) due to death or (D) due to Disability.

Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, or other business entity.

EX-10.14

Exhibit 10.14

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Amended and Restated Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into as of August 18, 2021, by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Esther van den Boom (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”). This Agreement will be effective upon the consummation of the Company’s initial public offering (the “IPO”) of its common stock (the “Effective Date”). In the event the IPO does not occur, this Agreement shall be of no force or effect and the Prior Agreement shall continue. Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have those meanings set forth in Appendix I hereto.

WHEREAS, the Company and Executive are parties to that certain Amended and Restated Employment Agreement dated as of April 16, 2021 (the “Prior Agreement”);

WHEREAS, the Company desires to retain the services of Executive by engaging Executive to perform services as an employee of the Company under the terms hereof; and

WHEREAS, Executive desires to provide services to the Company on the terms hereof.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, including the respective covenants and agreements set forth below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Employment.

(a) General. The Company shall continue to employ Executive upon the terms and conditions provided herein effective as of the Effective Date.

(b) Position and Duties. Executive shall serve as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer, on a 50% capacity basis, with responsibilities, duties, and authority usual and customary for such position subject to direction by the Chief Executive Officer (the “CEO”). During Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive shall report directly to the CEO and agrees promptly and faithfully to comply with all present and future policies, requirements, rules and regulations, and reasonable directions and requests, of the Company in connection with the Company’s business. Executive will at all times perform all of the duties and obligations required by Executive under this Agreement in a loyal and conscientious manner and to the best of Executive’s ability and experience.

(c) Performance of Executive’s Duties. During Executive’s employment with the Company, and except for periods of illness, vacation, Disability, or excused leaves of absence, Executive shall devote Executive’s full time and attention to the business and affairs of the Company pursuant to the general direction of the CEO; provided that nothing herein shall preclude Executive from, subject to prior consent of the CEO: (i) engaging in additional activities in connection with personal investments and community affairs including service on non-profit boards of directors; (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors for for-profit organizations that are not competitors of the Company; and (iii) serving as an advisor, or as a member of an


advisory board of organizations that are not competitors of the Company; provided such activities do not individually or in the aggregate interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement, violate the Company’s standards of conduct then in effect or raise a conflict under the Company’s conflict of interest policies.

2. Term. The period of Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall continue until Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated. The phrase “Term of Employment” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the entire period of employment of Executive by the Company.

3. Compensation and Related Matters.

(a) Annual Base Salary. Executive shall receive a base salary at the rate of $410,000 per annum (as may be increased from time to time, the “Annual Base Salary”), subject to withholdings and deductions and as adjusted for part time status, which shall be paid to Executive in accordance with the customary payroll practices and procedures of the Company. Such Annual Base Salary shall be reviewed by the CEO, and as applicable, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”), not less than annually, and may be increased, but not decreased, in connection with any such review.

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible to receive a discretionary annual bonus (the “Annual Bonus”) based on Executive’s achievement of performance objectives in accordance with the terms set forth by the Board. Executive’s target Annual Bonus shall be equal to 40% of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (the “Target Bonus”). Except as set forth in Section 6, Executive must be employed by the Company on the date of payment of any Annual Bonus to remain eligible to receive such Annual Bonus. Any Annual Bonus earned will be paid at the same time annual bonuses are paid to other executives of the Company generally, subject to any limitations on payment as set forth in Section 6.

(c) Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee and executive benefit plans and programs as the Company may offer from time to time to provide to its executives, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein is intended, or shall be construed, to require the Company to institute or continue any, or any particular, plan, or benefits.

(d) Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket travel and other business expenses incurred by Executive in the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company in accordance with the Company’s applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures as are in effect from time to time. The Company will also cover the expense of travel, room and board when working from Company headquarters in Carlsbad, CA.

(e) Vacation; Paid Time Off. Executive will be entitled to vacation or paid time off in accordance with the Company’s policy.

(f) Equity Awards. Executive shall be eligible to receive grants of equity awards in the Company’s sole discretion.

 

2


(g) Indemnification Agreement; Insurance. As an officer of the Company, Executive shall be entitled to enter into the Company’s standard indemnification agreement. Executive will also be covered under a directors and officers liability insurance policy paid for by the Company for so long as Executive serves as an officer of the Company.

4. Acceleration of Equity Awards Upon a Change in Control. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of a Change in Control, the vesting of Executive’s then outstanding options, restricted stock and other equity awards covering shares of the Company’s common stock (collectively, “Equity Awards”) shall accelerate as of immediately prior to such Change in Control with respect to fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to such Equity Awards. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to Executive’s Equity Awards shall continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the Change in Control, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Executive’s Equity Awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the Change in Control shall thereupon vest in full, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through such first anniversary. Notwithstanding the foregoing and for the avoidance of doubt, any shares subject to Equity Awards that do not accelerate immediately prior to the Change in Control in accordance with the foregoing shall be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6(d)(iii) below.

5. Termination.

(a) At-Will Employment. The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and shall continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law. This means that it is not for any specified period of time and can be terminated by Executive or by the Company at any time, with or without advance notice, and for any or no particular reason or cause. It also means that Executive’s job duties, title, and responsibility and reporting level, work schedule, compensation, and benefits, as well as the Company’s personnel policies and procedures, may be changed with prospective effect, with or without notice, at any time in the sole discretion of the Company (subject to any ramification such changes may have under Section 6 of this Agreement). This “at-will” nature of Executive’s employment shall remain unchanged during Executive’s tenure as an employee and may not be changed, except in an express writing signed by Executive and the CEO. If Executive’s employment terminates for any lawful reason, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, Equity Awards or other compensation other than as provided in this Agreement.

(b) Notice of Termination. During the Term of Employment, any termination of Executive’s employment by the Company or by Executive (other than by reason of death) shall be communicated by written notice (a “Notice of Termination”) from one Party hereto to the other Party hereto (i) indicating the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, if any, (ii) setting forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated and (iii) specifying the date of the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (the “Date of Termination”). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights

 

3


hereunder. The failure by Executive to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Good Reason shall not waive any right of Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

(c) Deemed Resignation. Upon termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from all offices and board memberships, if any, then held with the Company or any of its affiliates, and, at the Company’s request, Executive shall execute such documents as are necessary or desirable to effectuate such resignations.

6. Consequences of Termination.

(a) Release. In the event Executive’s employment with the Company terminates pursuant to Section 5, then Executive shall be entitled to the applicable payments and benefits set forth below subject to, in the case of a termination described in Section 6(c) or 6(d), Executive delivering to the Company a waiver and release of claims agreement in standard reasonable form approved by the Company that becomes effective and irrevocable in accordance with Section 7 hereof (a “Release”).

(b) Payments upon Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason. Upon a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause or by Executive without Good Reason, Executive (or Executive’s estate or legal representative, as applicable) shall be entitled to receive, within thirty (30) days of the effective date of termination of employment with the Company (whether such termination of employment is effected by the Company or Executive) (or such earlier date as may be required by applicable law): (i) any portion of Executive’s Annual Base Salary earned through Executive’s Date of Termination not theretofore paid; (ii) any reimbursement of expenses owed to Executive under Section 3(e) above; and (iii) any accrued but unused vacation or paid time-off owed to Executive ((i)-(iii) defined as the “Accrued Obligations”). In the event Executive is terminated by the Company for Cause, Executive shall forfeit, effective as of the date Executive engages in such conduct giving rise to his termination for Cause, all unexercised, unearned and/or unpaid Equity Awards, including without limitation, Equity Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing.

(c) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination Outside a Change in Control Period. If, outside a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) twelve months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s Target Bonus for the calendar year in which such Involuntary Termination occurs, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Executive’s Date of Termination;

 

4


(iii) fifty percent (50%) of the unvested Equity Awards held by the Executive as of the Date of Termination will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the twelve-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder (“COBRA”), the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, coverage under its group health plan (if any) at the same coverage levels in effect on the Date of Termination (“Benefits Coverage”); provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal taxable monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(d) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination During a Change in Control Period. If, during a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) eighteen months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) one hundred percent (100%) of Executive’s Target Bonus for the calendar year in which such Involuntary Termination occurs (for the avoidance of doubt, if (x) Executive incurred an Involuntary Termination prior to a Change in Control that qualifies Executive for severance payments under Section 6(c)(ii); and (y) a Change in Control occurs within the three (3)-month period following Executive’s Involuntary Termination that qualifies Executive for the increased benefits under this Section 6(d)(ii), then Executive shall be entitled to a lump-sum payment of the amount calculated under this Section 6(d)(ii), less any amount already paid under Section 6(c)(ii));

(iii) one hundred percent (100%) of all unvested Equity Awards held by Executive as of the Date of Termination, will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto effective on the later of (x) the Date of Termination or (y) the date of the Change in Control (for the avoidance of doubt, if Executive’s Involuntary Termination occurs prior to a Change in Control, then any unvested portion of Executive’s outstanding Equity Awards will remain outstanding for three (3) months or the occurrence of a

 

5


Change in Control (whichever is earlier) so that any vesting acceleration benefits provided under this clause (iii) can be provided if a Change in Control occurs within three (3) months following such termination (provided that in no event will the Equity Awards remain outstanding beyond the Equity Award’s maximum term or expiration date. In such case, if no Change in Control occurs within three (3) months following Executive’s termination, any unvested portion of Executive’s Equity Awards automatically will be forfeited without having vested; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the first anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under COBRA, the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, the Benefits Coverage; provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal taxable monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(e) No Other Severance. The provisions of this Section 6 shall supersede in their entirety any severance payment provisions in any severance plan, policy, program, or other arrangement maintained by the Company except for such additional benefits otherwise approved by the Board or Compensation Committee of the Board after the date hereof.

(f) No Requirement to Mitigate; Survival. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the termination of Executive’s employment shall not impair the rights or obligations of any Party.

7. Release and Payment Timing.

(a) Release. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any payments or other benefits due under this Agreement under Sections 6(c) and 6(d) as a result of Executive’s termination of employment (other than the Accrued Obligations) are subject to Executive’s execution and delivery of a Release, as follows: (i) the Company shall deliver the Release to Executive within five (5) days following Executive’s Date of Termination, and the Company’s failure to deliver a Release prior to the expiration of such five (5) day period shall constitute a waiver of any requirement to execute a Release, (ii) if Executive fails to execute the Release on or prior to the Release Expiration Date (as defined below) or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of the Release thereafter, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release, and (iii) if the Release does not become effective and irrevocable no later than sixty (60) days following the Date of Termination (such deadline, the “Release Deadline”), Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise

 

6


conditioned on the Release. For purposes of this Section 7, “Release Expiration Date” shall mean the date that is twenty-one (21) days following the date upon which the Company timely delivers the Release to Executive, or, in the event that Executive’s termination of employment is “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967), the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery date.

(b) Payment Timing. The payments due under Sections 6(c)(ii) and 6(d)(ii) of this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment shall be paid in a lump sum on the date that is sixty (60) days following the Date of Termination; provided, however, that, in the event of Executive’s Involuntary Termination during the Change in Control Period but prior to a Change in Control, any additional amount payable to Executive under Section 6(d)(ii) in excess of the amounts payable to such Executive under Section 6(c)(ii) shall be paid in a lump sum on the date that is sixty (60) days following the later of (x) the Date of Termination, or (y) the date of the Change in Control.

8. Non-Solicitation of Employees. For a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall not, either directly or indirectly (a) solicit for employment through any individual, corporation, firm, or other business, any employees, consultants, independent contractors, or other service providers of the Company or any of its affiliates, or (b) solicit any employee, consultant or other service provider of the Company or any of its affiliates to leave the employment or consulting of or cease providing services to the Company or any of its affiliates; provided, however, that the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) shall not apply to inbound inquiries or any general advertisement or solicitation (or any hiring pursuant to such advertisement or solicitation) that is not specifically targeted to such employees, consultants or other service providers.

9. Golden Parachute Excise Tax.

(a) Best Pay. Any provision of this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment or benefit Executive would receive from the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payment”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this sentence, be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such Payment will be equal to the Reduced Amount (as defined below). The “Reduced Amount” will be either (A) the largest portion of the Payment that would result in no portion of the Payment (after reduction) being subject to the Excise Tax or (B) the entire Payment, whichever amount after taking into account all applicable federal, state, and local employment taxes, income taxes, and the Excise Tax (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from a deduction of such state and local taxes), results in Executive’ s receipt, on an after-tax basis, of the greater economic benefit notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Payment may be subject to the Excise Tax. If a reduction in a Payment is required pursuant to the preceding sentence and the Reduced Amount is determined pursuant to clause (A) of the preceding sentence, the reduction shall occur in the manner (the “Reduction Method”) that results in the greatest economic benefit for Executive. If more than one method of reduction will result in the same economic benefit, the items so reduced will be reduced pro rata (the “Pro Rata Reduction Method”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Reduction Method or the Pro Rata Reduction

 

7


Method would result in any portion of the Payment being subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A (as defined below) that would not otherwise be subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A, then the Reduction Method and/or the Pro Rata Reduction Method, as the case may be, shall be modified so as to avoid the imposition of taxes pursuant to Section 409A as follows: (1) as a first priority, the modification shall preserve to the greatest extent possible, the greatest economic benefit for Executive as determined on an after-tax basis; (2) as a second priority, Payments that are contingent on future events (e.g., being terminated without cause), shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not contingent on future events; and (3) as a third priority, Payments that are “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A.

(b) Accounting Firm. All determinations regarding the application of this Section 9 shall be made by an independent accounting firm or consulting group with nationally recognized standing and substantial expertise and experience in performing calculations regarding the applicability of Section 280G of the Code and the Excise Tax retained by the Company prior to the date of the applicable change in ownership or control (the “280G Firm”). The Company will bear all expenses with respect to the determinations by the 280G Firm required to be made hereunder. The 280G Firm engaged to make the determinations hereunder will provide its calculations, together with detailed supporting documentation, to the Company within thirty (30) days before the consummation of a Change in Control (if requested at that time by the Company) or such other time as requested by the Company. If the 280G Firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable with respect to a Payment, either before or after the application of the Reduced Amount, it will furnish the Company with documentation reasonably acceptable to the Company that no Excise Tax will be imposed with respect to such Payment. Any good faith determinations of the 280G Firm made hereunder will be final, binding and conclusive upon the Company and Executive.

10. Section 409A.

(a) General. The intent of the Parties is that the payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date, (“Section 409A”) and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted to be in compliance therewith. If Executive notifies the Company that Executive has received advice of tax counsel of a national reputation with expertise in Section 409A that any provision of this Agreement would cause Executive to incur any additional tax or interest under Section 409A (with specificity as to the reason therefor) or the Company independently makes such determination, the Company and Executive shall take commercially reasonable efforts to reform such provision to try to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A through good faith modifications to the minimum extent reasonably appropriate to conform with Section 409A, provided that any such modifications shall not increase the cost or liability to the Company. To the extent that any provision hereof is modified in order to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A, such modification shall be made in good faith and shall, to the maximum extent reasonably possible, maintain the original intent and economic benefit to Executive and the Company of the applicable provision without violating the provisions of Section 409A.

 

8


(b) Separation from Service. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Agreement: (i) no amount that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A shall be payable pursuant to Section 6(c) or Section 6(d) above unless the termination of Executive’s employment constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Department of Treasury Regulations (“Separation from Service”); (ii) for purposes of Section 409A, Executive’s right to receive installment payments shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments; and (iii) to the extent that any reimbursement of expenses or in-kind benefits constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A, such reimbursement or benefit shall be provided no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the expense was incurred. The amount of expenses reimbursed in one year shall not affect the amount eligible for reimbursement in any subsequent year. The amount of any in-kind benefits provided in one year shall not affect the amount of in-kind benefits provided in any other year.

(c) Specified Employee. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if Executive is deemed by the Company at the time of Executive’s Separation from Service to be a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A, to the extent delayed commencement of any portion of the benefits to which Executive is entitled under this Agreement is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Section 409A, such portion of Executive’s benefits shall not be provided to Executive prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6)-month period measured from the date of Executive’s Separation from Service with the Company or (ii) the date of Executive’s death. Upon the first business day following the expiration of the applicable Section 409A period, all payments deferred pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries), and any remaining payments due to Executive under this Agreement shall be paid as otherwise provided herein.

11. Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement any federal, state, local, or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which the Company is required to withhold. The Company shall be entitled to rely on an opinion of counsel if any questions as to the amount or requirement of withholding shall arise.

12. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) Prior Employment. Executive represents and warrants that Executive’s acceptance of employment with the Company has not breached, and the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder will not breach, any duty owed by Executive to any prior employer or other person. Executive further represents and warrants to the Company that: (a) the performance of Executive’s obligations hereunder will not violate any agreement between Executive and any other person, firm, organization, or other entity; (b) Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party to refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or other party that would be violated by Executive entering into this Agreement and/or providing services to the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; and (c) Executive’s performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement will not require Executive to, and Executive shall not, rely on in the performance of Executive’s duties or disclose to the Company or any other person or entity or induce the Company in any way to use or rely on any trade secret or other confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer of Executive.

 

9


(b) Assignment and Successors. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor to all or substantially all of the business or the assets of the Company (by merger or otherwise). This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, Executive, and their respective successors, assigns, personnel, and legal representatives, executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees, as applicable. None of Executive’s rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred by Executive, other than Executive’s rights to payments hereunder, which may be transferred only by will, operation of law, or as otherwise provided herein.

(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, construed, interpreted, and enforced in accordance with its express terms, and otherwise in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of California, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law, whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction, and where applicable, the laws of the United States, that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction.

(d) Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

(e) Amendments; Waivers. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. By an instrument in writing similarly executed, Executive or a duly authorized officer of the Company, as applicable, may waive compliance by the other Party with any specifically identified provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is obligated to comply with or perform; provided, however, that such waiver shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any other or subsequent failure. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right, remedy, or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy, or power provided herein or by law or in equity.

(f) Dispute Resolution. Unless otherwise prohibited by law or specified below, all disputes, claims and causes of action, in law or equity, arising from or relating to this Agreement or its enforcement, performance, breach, or interpretation shall be resolved solely and exclusively by final and binding arbitration held in San Diego, California, before a single, mutually-agreed neutral arbitrator, through Judicial Arbitration & Mediation Services (“JAMS”) under the then existing JAMS arbitration rules. The rules may be found online at www.jamsadr.com or upon written request to the Company. This Section 12(f) is intended to be the exclusive method for resolving any and all claims by the Parties against each other relating to Executive’s employment; provided that Executive will retain the right to file administrative charges with or seek relief through any government agency of competent jurisdiction, and to participate in any government investigation, including but not limited to (i) claims for workers’ compensation, state disability insurance or unemployment insurance; (ii) claims for unpaid wages or waiting time penalties brought before the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (provided that any appeal from an award or from denial of an award of wages and/or waiting time penalties shall be arbitrated pursuant to the terms of this paragraph); and (iii) claims for administrative relief from the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and/or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (or any similar agency in any applicable jurisdiction other than California); provided, further, that, except as otherwise provided by law, Executive will not be

 

10


entitled to obtain any monetary relief through such agencies other than workers’ compensation benefits or unemployment insurance benefits. Further, nothing in this Section 12(f) is intended to prevent either Party from obtaining injunctive relief in court to prevent irreparable harm pending the conclusion of any such arbitration, including without limitation injunctive relief, in any court of competent jurisdiction pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure §1281.8 or any similar statute of an applicable jurisdiction. Seeking any such relief shall not be deemed to be a waiver of such Party’s right to compel arbitration. In resolving any matter submitted to arbitration, the arbitrator will strictly follow the substantive law applicable to the dispute, claim or controversy and the arbitrator’s authority and jurisdiction will be limited to determining the dispute in conformity with applicable law as to liability, damages and remedies, to the same extent as if the dispute was determined by a court without a jury. The arbitrator will issue a written decision that contains the essential findings of fact and conclusions of law on which the decision is based, which may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction. The Company shall pay all costs of arbitration, including without limitation, arbitration administrative fees, arbitrator compensation and expenses, and costs of any witnesses called by the arbitrator. Unless otherwise ordered by the arbitrator under applicable law, the Company and Executive shall each bear its or his own expenses, such as attorneys’ fees, costs and disbursements. The prevailing party in any arbitration or other dispute between the parties will be entitled to an award of attorneys’ fees and costs, in addition to any other relief. Each Party warrants that it has had the opportunity to be represented by counsel in the negotiation and execution of this Agreement, including the attorneys’ fees provision herein. Both Executive and the Company expressly waive his and its right to a jury trial. Executive furthers waives his right to pursue claims against the Company on a class basis; provided, however, that Executive does not waive his right, to the extent preserved by law, to pursue representative claims against the Company under the California Private Attorney General Act.

(g) Enforcement. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable under present or future laws, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision had never comprised a portion of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement. Furthermore, in lieu of such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision there shall be added automatically as part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable.

(h) Entire Agreement. The terms of this Agreement are intended by the Parties to be the final expression of their agreement with respect to the employment of Executive by the Company and supersede all prior understandings and agreements, whether written or oral, regarding Executive’s employment with the Company. The Parties further intend that this Agreement shall constitute the complete and exclusive statement of their terms and that no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may be introduced in any judicial, administrative, or other legal proceeding to vary the terms of this Agreement.

(i) Executive Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges that Executive has read and understands this Agreement, is fully aware of its legal effect, has not acted in reliance

 

11


upon any representations or promises made by the Company other than those contained in writing herein, and has entered into this Agreement freely based on Executive’s own judgment.

(j) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same Agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile shall be deemed effective for all purposes.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

12


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris, Ph.D.

Name:   Todd Harris, Ph.D.
Title:   Chief Executive Officer

 

EXECUTIVE
By:  

/s/ Esther van den Boom

Name:   Esther van den Boom

 

[Signature Page to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement]


APPENDIX I

DEFINITIONS

All defined terms used in this Appendix I that are not otherwise defined in this Appendix I shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Employment Agreement to which this Appendix I relates.

Cause” shall mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following events or conditions:

(i) any material failure on the part of Executive (other than by reason of Disability of Executive) to faithfully and professionally carry out Executive’s duties which failure continues for ten (10) days after written notice detailing such failure is delivered to Executive by the Company;

(ii) Executive’s dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of the Company;

(iii) Executive’s conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony.

(iv) Executive’s insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Executive to perform the same;

(v) Executive’s material breach of any written agreement with the Company or any of its affiliates or material violation of the Company’s Code of Conduct or any other material written policy of the Company; or

(vi) Any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Executive.

Change in Control” shall have the meaning given to such term in the Company’s 2021 Incentive Award Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a Change in Control constitutes a payment event with respect to any amount hereunder that provides for the deferral of compensation that is subject to Section 409A, to the extent required to avoid the imposition of additional taxes under Section 409A, the transaction or event shall only constitute a Change in Control for purposes of the payment timing of such amount if such transaction also constitutes a “change in control event,” as defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5).

Change in Control Period” shall mean the period commencing three (3) months prior to a Change in Control and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary of the Change in Control.

Disability” shall mean permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

Good Reason” shall mean any one of the following: (i) the material reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all


other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in Executive’s Annual Base Salary); (ii) a material reduction of Executive’s duties and responsibilities from those in effect on the Effective Date; (iii) the Company’s material breach of this Agreement (other than a reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in Executive’s Annual Base Salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Executive’s principal place of employment that increases Executive’s one-way commute by more than thirty-five (35) miles, provided, that, in each case, Executive will not be deemed to have Good Reason unless (A)Executive first provides the Board with written notice of the condition giving rise to Good Reason within thirty (30)days of its initial occurrence, (B)the Company or the successor company fails to cure such condition within ten (10)days after receiving such written notice (the “Cure Period”), and (C)Executive’s resignation based on such Good Reason is effective within thirty (30)days after the expiration of the Cure Period.

Involuntary Termination” shall mean Executive’s termination (A) by the Company without Cause, (B) by Executive for Good Reason, (C) due to death or (D) due to Disability.

Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, or other business entity.

EX-10.15

Exhibit 10.15

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Amended and Restated Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into as of August 18, 2021, by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Ronald Swanson (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”). This Agreement will be effective upon the consummation of the Company’s initial public offering (the “IPO”) of its common stock (the “Effective Date”). In the event the IPO does not occur, this Agreement shall be of no force or effect and the Prior Agreement shall continue. Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have those meanings set forth in Appendix I hereto.

WHEREAS, the Company and Executive are parties to that certain Employment Agreement dated as of January 16, 2020 (the “Prior Agreement”);

WHEREAS, the Company desires to retain the services of Executive by engaging Executive to perform services as an employee of the Company under the terms hereof; and

WHEREAS, Executive desires to provide services to the Company on the terms hereof.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, including the respective covenants and agreements set forth below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Employment.

(a) General. The Company shall continue to employ Executive upon the terms and conditions provided herein effective as of the Effective Date.

(b) Position and Duties. Executive shall serve as the Company’s Chief Scientific Officer, with responsibilities, duties, and authority usual and customary for such position subject to direction by the Chief Executive Officer (the “CEO”). During Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive shall report directly to the CEO and agrees promptly and faithfully to comply with all present and future policies, requirements, rules and regulations, and reasonable directions and requests, of the Company in connection with the Company’s business. Executive will at all times perform all of the duties and obligations required by Executive under this Agreement in a loyal and conscientious manner and to the best of Executive’s ability and experience.

(c) Performance of Executive’s Duties. During Executive’s employment with the Company, and except for periods of illness, vacation, Disability, or excused leaves of absence, Executive shall devote Executive’s full time and attention to the business and affairs of the Company pursuant to the general direction of the CEO; provided that nothing herein shall preclude Executive from, subject to prior consent of the CEO: (i) engaging in additional activities in connection with personal investments and community affairs including service on non-profit boards of directors; (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors for for-profit organizations that are not competitors of the Company; and (iii) serving as an advisor, or as a member of an advisory board of organizations that are not competitors of the Company; provided such activities

 

1


do not individually or in the aggregate interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement, violate the Company’s standards of conduct then in effect or raise a conflict under the Company’s conflict of interest policies.

2. Term. The period of Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall continue until Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated. The phrase “Term of Employment” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the entire period of employment of Executive by the Company.

3. Compensation and Related Matters.

(a) Annual Base Salary. Executive shall receive a base salary at the rate of $410,000 per annum (as may be increased from time to time, the “Annual Base Salary”), subject to withholdings and deductions, which shall be paid to Executive in accordance with the customary payroll practices and procedures of the Company. Such Annual Base Salary shall be reviewed by the CEO, and as applicable, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”), not less than annually, and may be increased, but not decreased, in connection with any such review.

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible to receive a discretionary annual bonus (the “Annual Bonus”) based on Executive’s achievement of performance objectives in accordance with the terms set forth by the Board. Executive’s target Annual Bonus shall be equal to 40% of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (the “Target Bonus”). Except as set forth in Section 6, Executive must be employed by the Company on the date of payment of any Annual Bonus to remain eligible to receive such Annual Bonus. Any Annual Bonus earned will be paid at the same time annual bonuses are paid to other executives of the Company generally, subject to any limitations on payment as set forth in Section 6. Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee and executive benefit plans and programs as the Company may offer from time to time to provide to its executives, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein is intended, or shall be construed, to require the Company to institute or continue any, or any particular, plan, or benefits.

(c) Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket travel and other business expenses incurred by Executive in the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company in accordance with the Company’s applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures as are in effect from time to time.

(d) Vacation; Paid Time Off. Executive will be entitled to vacation or paid time off, in accordance with the Company’s policy.

(e) Equity Awards. Executive shall be eligible to receive grants of equity awards in the Company’s sole discretion.

(f) Indemnification Agreement; Insurance. As an officer of the Company, Executive shall be entitled to enter into the Company’s standard indemnification agreement. Executive will also be covered under a directors and officers liability insurance policy paid for by the Company for so long as Executive serves as an officer of the Company.

 

2


4. Acceleration of Equity Awards Upon a Change in Control. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of a Change in Control, the vesting of Executive’s then outstanding options, restricted stock and other equity awards covering shares of the Company’s common stock (collectively, “Equity Awards”) shall accelerate as of immediately prior to such Change in Control with respect to fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to such Equity Awards. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to Executive’s Equity Awards shall continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the Change in Control, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Executive’s Equity Awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the Change in Control shall thereupon vest in full, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through such first anniversary. Notwithstanding the foregoing and for the avoidance of doubt, any shares subject to Equity Awards that do not accelerate immediately prior to the Change in Control in accordance with the foregoing shall be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6(d)(iii) below.

5. Termination.

(a) At-Will Employment. The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and shall continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law. This means that it is not for any specified period of time and can be terminated by Executive or by the Company at any time, with or without advance notice, and for any or no particular reason or cause. It also means that Executive’s job duties, title, and responsibility and reporting level, work schedule, compensation, and benefits, as well as the Company’s personnel policies and procedures, may be changed with prospective effect, with or without notice, at any time in the sole discretion of the Company (subject to any ramification such changes may have under Section 6 of this Agreement). This “at-will” nature of Executive’s employment shall remain unchanged during Executive’s tenure as an employee and may not be changed, except in an express writing signed by Executive and the CEO. If Executive’s employment terminates for any lawful reason, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, Equity Awards or other compensation other than as provided in this Agreement.

(b) Notice of Termination. During the Term of Employment, any termination of Executive’s employment by the Company or by Executive (other than by reason of death) shall be communicated by written notice (a “Notice of Termination”) from one Party hereto to the other Party hereto (i) indicating the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, if any, (ii) setting forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated and (iii) specifying the date of the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (the “Date of Termination”). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder. The failure by Executive to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Good Reason shall not waive any right of Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

 

3


(c) Deemed Resignation. Upon termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from all offices and board memberships, if any, then held with the Company or any of its affiliates, and, at the Company’s request, Executive shall execute such documents as are necessary or desirable to effectuate such resignations.

6. Consequences of Termination.

(a) Release. In the event Executive’s employment with the Company terminates pursuant to Section 5, then Executive shall be entitled to the applicable payments and benefits set forth below subject to, in the case of a termination described in Section 6(c) or 6(d), Executive delivering to the Company a waiver and release of claims agreement in standard reasonable form approved by the Company that becomes effective and irrevocable in accordance with Section 7 hereof (a “Release”).

(b) Payments upon Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason. Upon a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause or by Executive without Good Reason, Executive (or Executive’s estate or legal representative, as applicable) shall be entitled to receive, within thirty (30) days of the effective date of termination of employment with the Company (whether such termination of employment is effected by the Company or Executive) (or such earlier date as may be required by applicable law): (i) any portion of Executive’s Annual Base Salary earned through Executive’s Date of Termination not theretofore paid; (ii) any reimbursement of expenses owed to Executive under Section 3(e) above; and (iii) any accrued but unused vacation or paid time-off owed to Executive ((i)-(iii) defined as the “Accrued Obligations”). In the event Executive is terminated by the Company for Cause, Executive shall forfeit, effective as of the date Executive engages in such conduct giving rise to his termination for Cause, all unexercised, unearned and/or unpaid Equity Awards, including without limitation, Equity Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing.

(c) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination Outside a Change in Control Period. If, outside a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) twelve months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s Target Bonus for the calendar year in which such Involuntary Termination occurs, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Executive’s Date of Termination;

(iii) fifty percent (50%) of the unvested Equity Awards held by the Executive as of the Date of Termination will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the twelve-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes

 

4


eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder (“COBRA”), the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, coverage under its group health plan (if any) at the same coverage levels in effect on the Date of Termination (“Benefits Coverage”); provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal taxable monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(d) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination During a Change in Control Period. If, during a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) eighteen months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) one hundred percent (100%) of Executive’s Target Bonus for the calendar year in which such Involuntary Termination occurs (for the avoidance of doubt, if (x) Executive incurred an Involuntary Termination prior to a Change in Control that qualifies Executive for severance payments under Section 6(c)(ii); and (y) a Change in Control occurs within the three (3)-month period following Executive’s Involuntary Termination that qualifies Executive for the increased benefits under this Section 6(d)(ii), then Executive shall be entitled to a lump-sum payment of the amount calculated under this Section 6(d)(ii), less any amount already paid under Section 6(c)(ii));

(iii) one hundred percent (100%) of all unvested Equity Awards held by Executive as of the Date of Termination, will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto effective on the later of (x) the Date of Termination or (y) the date of the Change in Control (for the avoidance of doubt, if Executive’s Involuntary Termination occurs prior to a Change in Control, then any unvested portion of Executive’s outstanding Equity Awards will remain outstanding for three (3) months or the occurrence of a Change in Control (whichever is earlier) so that any vesting acceleration benefits provided under this clause (iii) can be provided if a Change in Control occurs within three (3) months following such termination (provided that in no event will the Equity Awards remain outstanding beyond the Equity Award’s maximum term or expiration date. In such case, if no Change in Control occurs within three (3) months following Executive’s termination, any unvested portion of Executive’s Equity Awards automatically will be forfeited without having vested; and

 

5


(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the first anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under COBRA, the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, the Benefits Coverage; provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal taxable monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(e) No Other Severance. The provisions of this Section 6 shall supersede in their entirety any severance payment provisions in any severance plan, policy, program, or other arrangement maintained by the Company except for such additional benefits otherwise approved by the Board or Compensation Committee of the Board after the date hereof.

(f) No Requirement to Mitigate; Survival. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the termination of Executive’s employment shall not impair the rights or obligations of any Party.

7. Release and Payment Timing.

(a) Release. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any payments or other benefits due under this Agreement under Sections 6(c) and 6(d) as a result of Executive’s termination of employment (other than the Accrued Obligations) are subject to Executive’s execution and delivery of a Release, as follows: (i) the Company shall deliver the Release to Executive within five (5) days following Executive’s Date of Termination, and the Company’s failure to deliver a Release prior to the expiration of such five (5) day period shall constitute a waiver of any requirement to execute a Release, (ii) if Executive fails to execute the Release on or prior to the Release Expiration Date (as defined below) or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of the Release thereafter, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release, and (iii) if the Release does not become effective and irrevocable no later than sixty (60) days following the Date of Termination (such deadline, the “Release Deadline”), Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release. For purposes of this Section 7, “Release Expiration Date” shall mean the date that is twenty-one (21) days following the date upon which the Company timely delivers the Release to Executive, or, in the event that Executive’s termination of employment is “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967), the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery date.

 

6


(b) Payment Timing. The payments due under Sections 6(c)(ii) and 6(d)(ii) of this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment shall be paid in a lump sum on the date that is sixty (60) days following the Date of Termination; provided, however, that, in the event of Executive’s Involuntary Termination during the Change in Control Period but prior to a Change in Control, any additional amount payable to Executive under Section 6(d)(ii) in excess of the amounts payable to such Executive under Section 6(c)(ii) shall be paid in a lump sum on the date that is sixty (60) days following the later of (x) the Date of Termination, or (y) the date of the Change in Control.

8. Non-Solicitation of Employees. For a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall not, either directly or indirectly (a) solicit for employment through any individual, corporation, firm, or other business, any employees, consultants, independent contractors, or other service providers of the Company or any of its affiliates, or (b) solicit any employee, consultant or other service provider of the Company or any of its affiliates to leave the employment or consulting of or cease providing services to the Company or any of its affiliates; provided, however, that the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) shall not apply to inbound inquiries or any general advertisement or solicitation (or any hiring pursuant to such advertisement or solicitation) that is not specifically targeted to such employees, consultants or other service providers.

9. Golden Parachute Excise Tax.

(a) Best Pay. Any provision of this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment or benefit Executive would receive from the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payment”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this sentence, be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such Payment will be equal to the Reduced Amount (as defined below). The “Reduced Amount” will be either (A) the largest portion of the Payment that would result in no portion of the Payment (after reduction) being subject to the Excise Tax or (B) the entire Payment, whichever amount after taking into account all applicable federal, state, and local employment taxes, income taxes, and the Excise Tax (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from a deduction of such state and local taxes), results in Executive’ s receipt, on an after-tax basis, of the greater economic benefit notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Payment may be subject to the Excise Tax. If a reduction in a Payment is required pursuant to the preceding sentence and the Reduced Amount is determined pursuant to clause (A) of the preceding sentence, the reduction shall occur in the manner (the “Reduction Method”) that results in the greatest economic benefit for Executive. If more than one method of reduction will result in the same economic benefit, the items so reduced will be reduced pro rata (the “Pro Rata Reduction Method”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Reduction Method or the Pro Rata Reduction Method would result in any portion of the Payment being subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A (as defined below) that would not otherwise be subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A, then the Reduction Method and/or the Pro Rata Reduction Method, as the case may be, shall be modified so as to avoid the imposition of taxes pursuant to Section 409A as follows: (1) as a first priority, the modification shall preserve to the greatest extent possible, the greatest economic benefit for Executive as determined on an after-tax basis; (2) as a second priority, Payments that are contingent on future events (e.g., being terminated without cause), shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not contingent on future events; and (3) as a third priority, Payments that

 

7


are “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A.

(a) Accounting Firm. All determinations regarding the application of this Section 9 shall be made by an independent accounting firm or consulting group with nationally recognized standing and substantial expertise and experience in performing calculations regarding the applicability of Section 280G of the Code and the Excise Tax retained by the Company prior to the date of the applicable change in ownership or control (the “280G Firm”). The Company will bear all expenses with respect to the determinations by the 280G Firm required to be made hereunder. The 280G Firm engaged to make the determinations hereunder will provide its calculations, together with detailed supporting documentation, to the Company within thirty (30) days before the consummation of a Change in Control (if requested at that time by the Company) or such other time as requested by the Company. If the 280G Firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable with respect to a Payment, either before or after the application of the Reduced Amount, it will furnish the Company with documentation reasonably acceptable to the Company that no Excise Tax will be imposed with respect to such Payment. Any good faith determinations of the 280G Firm made hereunder will be final, binding and conclusive upon the Company and Executive.

10. Section 409A.

(a) General. The intent of the Parties is that the payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date, (“Section 409A”) and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted to be in compliance therewith. If Executive notifies the Company that Executive has received advice of tax counsel of a national reputation with expertise in Section 409A that any provision of this Agreement would cause Executive to incur any additional tax or interest under Section 409A (with specificity as to the reason therefor) or the Company independently makes such determination, the Company and Executive shall take commercially reasonable efforts to reform such provision to try to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A through good faith modifications to the minimum extent reasonably appropriate to conform with Section 409A, provided that any such modifications shall not increase the cost or liability to the Company. To the extent that any provision hereof is modified in order to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A, such modification shall be made in good faith and shall, to the maximum extent reasonably possible, maintain the original intent and economic benefit to Executive and the Company of the applicable provision without violating the provisions of Section 409A.

(b) Separation from Service. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Agreement: (i) no amount that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A shall be payable pursuant to Section 6(c) or Section 6(d) above unless the termination of Executive’s employment constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Department of Treasury Regulations (“Separation from Service”); (ii) for purposes of Section 409A, Executive’s right to receive installment payments shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments; and (iii) to the extent that any reimbursement of expenses or in-kind benefits constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A, such reimbursement or benefit shall be provided no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which

 

8


the expense was incurred. The amount of expenses reimbursed in one year shall not affect the amount eligible for reimbursement in any subsequent year. The amount of any in-kind benefits provided in one year shall not affect the amount of in-kind benefits provided in any other year.

(c) Specified Employee. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if Executive is deemed by the Company at the time of Executive’s Separation from Service to be a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A, to the extent delayed commencement of any portion of the benefits to which Executive is entitled under this Agreement is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Section 409A, such portion of Executive’s benefits shall not be provided to Executive prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6)-month period measured from the date of Executive’s Separation from Service with the Company or (ii) the date of Executive’s death. Upon the first business day following the expiration of the applicable Section 409A period, all payments deferred pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries), and any remaining payments due to Executive under this Agreement shall be paid as otherwise provided herein.

11. Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement any federal, state, local, or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which the Company is required to withhold. The Company shall be entitled to rely on an opinion of counsel if any questions as to the amount or requirement of withholding shall arise.

12. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) Prior Employment. Executive represents and warrants that Executive’s acceptance of employment with the Company has not breached, and the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder will not breach, any duty owed by Executive to any prior employer or other person. Executive further represents and warrants to the Company that: (a) the performance of Executive’s obligations hereunder will not violate any agreement between Executive and any other person, firm, organization, or other entity; (b) Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party to refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or other party that would be violated by Executive entering into this Agreement and/or providing services to the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; and (c) Executive’s performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement will not require Executive to, and Executive shall not, rely on in the performance of Executive’s duties or disclose to the Company or any other person or entity or induce the Company in any way to use or rely on any trade secret or other confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer of Executive.

(b) Assignment and Successors. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor to all or substantially all of the business or the assets of the Company (by merger or otherwise). This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, Executive, and their respective successors, assigns, personnel, and legal representatives, executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees, as applicable. None of Executive’s rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred by Executive, other than Executive’s rights to payments hereunder, which may be transferred only by will, operation of law, or as otherwise provided herein.

 

9


(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, construed, interpreted, and enforced in accordance with its express terms, and otherwise in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of California, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law, whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction, and where applicable, the laws of the United States, that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction.

(d) Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

(e) Amendments; Waivers. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. By an instrument in writing similarly executed, Executive or a duly authorized officer of the Company, as applicable, may waive compliance by the other Party with any specifically identified provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is obligated to comply with or perform; provided, however, that such waiver shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any other or subsequent failure. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right, remedy, or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy, or power provided herein or by law or in equity.

(f) Dispute Resolution. Unless otherwise prohibited by law or specified below, all disputes, claims and causes of action, in law or equity, arising from or relating to this Agreement or its enforcement, performance, breach, or interpretation shall be resolved solely and exclusively by final and binding arbitration held in San Diego, California, before a single, mutually-agreed neutral arbitrator, through Judicial Arbitration & Mediation Services (“JAMS”) under the then existing JAMS arbitration rules. The rules may be found online at www.jamsadr.com or upon written request to the Company. This Section 12(f) is intended to be the exclusive method for resolving any and all claims by the Parties against each other relating to Executive’s employment; provided that Executive will retain the right to file administrative charges with or seek relief through any government agency of competent jurisdiction, and to participate in any government investigation, including but not limited to (i) claims for workers’ compensation, state disability insurance or unemployment insurance; (ii) claims for unpaid wages or waiting time penalties brought before the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (provided that any appeal from an award or from denial of an award of wages and/or waiting time penalties shall be arbitrated pursuant to the terms of this paragraph); and (iii) claims for administrative relief from the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and/or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (or any similar agency in any applicable jurisdiction other than California); provided, further, that, except as otherwise provided by law, Executive will not be entitled to obtain any monetary relief through such agencies other than workers’ compensation benefits or unemployment insurance benefits. Further, nothing in this Section 12(f) is intended to prevent either Party from obtaining injunctive relief in court to prevent irreparable harm pending the conclusion of any such arbitration, including without limitation injunctive relief, in any court of competent jurisdiction pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure §1281.8 or any similar statute of an applicable jurisdiction. Seeking any such relief shall not be deemed to be a waiver of such Party’s right to compel arbitration. In resolving any matter submitted to arbitration, the arbitrator will strictly follow the substantive law applicable to the dispute, claim or controversy and the arbitrator’s authority and jurisdiction will be limited to determining the dispute in conformity with applicable law as to liability, damages and remedies, to the same extent as if the

 

10


dispute was determined by a court without a jury. The arbitrator will issue a written decision that contains the essential findings of fact and conclusions of law on which the decision is based, which may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction. The Company shall pay all costs of arbitration, including without limitation, arbitration administrative fees, arbitrator compensation and expenses, and costs of any witnesses called by the arbitrator. Unless otherwise ordered by the arbitrator under applicable law, the Company and Executive shall each bear its or his own expenses, such as attorneys’ fees, costs and disbursements. The prevailing party in any arbitration or other dispute between the parties will be entitled to an award of attorneys’ fees and costs, in addition to any other relief. Each Party warrants that it has had the opportunity to be represented by counsel in the negotiation and execution of this Agreement, including the attorneys’ fees provision herein. Both Executive and the Company expressly waive his and its right to a jury trial. Executive furthers waives his right to pursue claims against the Company on a class basis; provided, however, that Executive does not waive his right, to the extent preserved by law, to pursue representative claims against the Company under the California Private Attorney General Act.

(g) Enforcement. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable under present or future laws, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision had never comprised a portion of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement. Furthermore, in lieu of such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision there shall be added automatically as part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable.

(h) Entire Agreement. The terms of this Agreement are intended by the Parties to be the final expression of their agreement with respect to the employment of Executive by the Company and supersede all prior understandings and agreements, whether written or oral, regarding Executive’s employment with the Company. The Parties further intend that this Agreement shall constitute the complete and exclusive statement of their terms and that no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may be introduced in any judicial, administrative, or other legal proceeding to vary the terms of this Agreement.

(i) Executive Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges that Executive has read and understands this Agreement, is fully aware of its legal effect, has not acted in reliance upon any representations or promises made by the Company other than those contained in writing herein, and has entered into this Agreement freely based on Executive’s own judgment.

(j) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same Agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile shall be deemed effective for all purposes.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

11


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris, Ph.D.

Name:   Todd Harris, Ph.D.
Title:   Chief Executive Officer

 

EXECUTIVE
By:  

/s/ Ronald Swanson, Ph.D.

Name:   Ronald Swanson, Ph.D.

 

[Signature Page to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement]


APPENDIX I

DEFINITIONS

All defined terms used in this Appendix I that are not otherwise defined in this Appendix I shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Employment Agreement to which this Appendix I relates.

Cause” shall mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following events or conditions:

(i) any material failure on the part of Executive (other than by reason of Disability of Executive) to faithfully and professionally carry out Executive’s duties which failure continues for ten (10) days after written notice detailing such failure is delivered to Executive by the Company;

(ii) Executive’s dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of the Company;

(iii) Executive’s conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony.

(iv) Executive’s insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Executive to perform the same;

(v) Executive’s material breach of any written agreement with the Company or any of its affiliates or material violation of the Company’s Code of Conduct or any other material written policy of the Company; or

(vi) Any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Executive.

Change in Control” shall have the meaning given to such term in the Company’s 2021 Incentive Award Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a Change in Control constitutes a payment event with respect to any amount hereunder that provides for the deferral of compensation that is subject to Section 409A, to the extent required to avoid the imposition of additional taxes under Section 409A, the transaction or event shall only constitute a Change in Control for purposes of the payment timing of such amount if such transaction also constitutes a “change in control event,” as defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5).

Change in Control Period” shall mean the period commencing three (3) months prior to a Change in Control and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary of the Change in Control.

Disability” shall mean permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

Good Reason” shall mean any one of the following: (i) the material reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all


other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in Executive’s Annual Base Salary); (ii) a material reduction of Executive’s duties and responsibilities from those in effect on the Effective Date; (iii) the Company’s material breach of this Agreement (other than a reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in Executive’s Annual Base Salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Executive’s principal place of employment that increases Executive’s one-way commute by more than thirty-five (35) miles, provided, that, in each case, Executive will not be deemed to have Good Reason unless (A)Executive first provides the Board with written notice of the condition giving rise to Good Reason within thirty (30)days of its initial occurrence, (B) the Company or the successor company fails to cure such condition within ten (10)days after receiving such written notice (the “Cure Period”), and (C)Executive’s resignation based on such Good Reason is effective within thirty (30)days after the expiration of the Cure Period.

Involuntary Termination” shall mean Executive’s termination (A) by the Company without Cause, (B) by Executive for Good Reason, (C) due to death or (D) due to Disability.

Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, or other business entity.

EX-10.16

Exhibit 10.16

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Amended and Restated Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into as of August 18, 2021, by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Hiroomi Tada (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”). This Agreement will be effective upon the consummation of the Company’s initial public offering (the “IPO”) of its common stock (the “Effective Date”). In the event the IPO does not occur, this Agreement shall be of no force or effect and the Prior Agreement shall continue. Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have those meanings set forth in Appendix I hereto.

WHEREAS, the Company and Executive are parties to that certain Employment Agreement dated as of November 9, 2020 (the “Prior Agreement”);

WHEREAS, the Company desires to retain the services of Executive by engaging Executive to perform services as an employee of the Company under the terms hereof; and

WHEREAS, Executive desires to provide services to the Company on the terms hereof.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, including the respective covenants and agreements set forth below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Employment.

(a) General. The Company shall continue to employ Executive upon the terms and conditions provided herein effective as of the Effective Date.

(b) Position and Duties. Executive shall serve as the Company’s Chief Medical Officer, with responsibilities, duties, and authority usual and customary for such position subject to direction by the Chief Executive Officer (the “CEO”). During Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive shall report directly to the CEO and agrees promptly and faithfully to comply with all present and future policies, requirements, rules and regulations, and reasonable directions and requests, of the Company in connection with the Company’s business. Executive will at all times perform all of the duties and obligations required by Executive under this Agreement in a loyal and conscientious manner and to the best of Executive’s ability and experience.

(c) Performance of Executive’s Duties. During Executive’s employment with the Company, and except for periods of illness, vacation, Disability, or excused leaves of absence, Executive shall devote Executive’s full time and attention to the business and affairs of the Company pursuant to the general direction of the CEO; provided that nothing herein shall preclude Executive from, subject to prior consent of the CEO: (i) engaging in additional activities in connection with personal investments and community affairs including service on non-profit boards of directors; (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors for for-profit organizations that are not competitors of the Company; and (iii) serving as an advisor, or as a member of an advisory board of organizations that are not competitors of the Company; provided such activities


do not individually or in the aggregate interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement, violate the Company’s standards of conduct then in effect or raise a conflict under the Company’s conflict of interest policies.

2. Term. The period of Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall continue until Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated. The phrase “Term of Employment” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the entire period of employment of Executive by the Company.

3. Compensation and Related Matters.

(a) Annual Base Salary. Executive shall receive a base salary at the rate of $460,000 per annum (as may be increased from time to time, the “Annual Base Salary”), subject to withholdings and deductions, which shall be paid to Executive in accordance with the customary payroll practices and procedures of the Company. Such Annual Base Salary shall be reviewed by the CEO, and as applicable, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”), not less than annually, and may be increased, but not decreased, in connection with any such review.

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible to receive a discretionary annual bonus (the “Annual Bonus”) based on Executive’s achievement of performance objectives in accordance with the terms set forth by the Board. Executive’s target Annual Bonus shall be equal to 40% of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (the “Target Bonus”). Except as set forth in Section 6, Executive must be employed by the Company on the date of payment of any Annual Bonus to remain eligible to receive such Annual Bonus. Any Annual Bonus earned will be paid at the same time annual bonuses are paid to other executives of the Company generally, subject to any limitations on payment as set forth in Section 6.

(c) Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee and executive benefit plans and programs as the Company may offer from time to time to provide to its executives, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein is intended, or shall be construed, to require the Company to institute or continue any, or any particular, plan, or benefits.

(d) Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket travel and other business expenses incurred by Executive in the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company in accordance with the Company’s applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures as are in effect from time to time. The Company will also cover the expense of travel, room and board when working from Company headquarters in Carlsbad, CA.

(e) Vacation; Paid Time Off. Executive will be entitled to vacation or paid time off in accordance with the Company’s policy.

(f) Equity Awards. Executive shall be eligible to receive grants of equity awards in the Company’s sole discretion.

(g) Indemnification Agreement; Insurance. As an officer of the Company, Executive shall be entitled to enter into the Company’s standard indemnification agreement.

 

2


Executive will also be covered under a directors and officers liability insurance policy paid for by the Company for so long as Executive serves as an officer of the Company.

4. Acceleration of Equity Awards Upon a Change in Control. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of a Change in Control, the vesting of Executive’s then outstanding options, restricted stock and other equity awards covering shares of the Company’s common stock (collectively, “Equity Awards”) shall accelerate as of immediately prior to such Change in Control with respect to fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to such Equity Awards. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to Executive’s Equity Awards shall continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the Change in Control, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Executive’s Equity Awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the Change in Control shall thereupon vest in full, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through such first anniversary. Notwithstanding the foregoing and for the avoidance of doubt, any shares subject to Equity Awards that do not accelerate immediately prior to the Change in Control in accordance with the foregoing shall be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6(d)(iii) below.

5. Termination.

(a) At-Will Employment. The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and shall continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law. This means that it is not for any specified period of time and can be terminated by Executive or by the Company at any time, with or without advance notice, and for any or no particular reason or cause. It also means that Executive’s job duties, title, and responsibility and reporting level, work schedule, compensation, and benefits, as well as the Company’s personnel policies and procedures, may be changed with prospective effect, with or without notice, at any time in the sole discretion of the Company (subject to any ramification such changes may have under Section 6 of this Agreement). This “at-will” nature of Executive’s employment shall remain unchanged during Executive’s tenure as an employee and may not be changed, except in an express writing signed by Executive and the CEO. If Executive’s employment terminates for any lawful reason, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, Equity Awards or other compensation other than as provided in this Agreement.

(b) Notice of Termination. During the Term of Employment, any termination of Executive’s employment by the Company or by Executive (other than by reason of death) shall be communicated by written notice (a “Notice of Termination”) from one Party hereto to the other Party hereto (i) indicating the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, if any, (ii) setting forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated and (iii) specifying the date of the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (the “Date of Termination”). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder. The failure by Executive to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Good Reason shall not waive any right of

 

3


Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

(c) Deemed Resignation. Upon termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from all offices and board memberships, if any, then held with the Company or any of its affiliates, and, at the Company’s request, Executive shall execute such documents as are necessary or desirable to effectuate such resignations.

6. Consequences of Termination.

(a) Release. In the event Executive’s employment with the Company terminates pursuant to Section 5, then Executive shall be entitled to the applicable payments and benefits set forth below subject, in the case of a termination described in Sections 6(c) or 6(d) to Executive delivering to the Company a waiver and release of claims agreement in standard reasonable form approved by the Company that becomes effective and irrevocable in accordance with Section 7 hereof (a “Release”).

(b) Payments upon Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason. Upon a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause or by Executive without Good Reason, Executive (or Executive’s estate or legal representative, as applicable) shall be entitled to receive, within thirty (30) days of the effective date of termination of employment with the Company (whether such termination of employment is effected by the Company or Executive) (or such earlier date as may be required by applicable law): (i) any portion of Executive’s Annual Base Salary earned through Executive’s Date of Termination not theretofore paid; (ii) any reimbursement of expenses owed to Executive under Section 3(e) above; and (iii) any accrued but unused vacation or paid time-off owed to Executive ((i)-(iii) defined as the “Accrued Obligations”). In the event Executive is terminated by the Company for Cause, Executive shall forfeit, effective as of the date Executive engages in such conduct giving rise to his termination for Cause, all unexercised, unearned and/or unpaid Equity Awards, including without limitation, Equity Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing.

(c) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination Outside a Change in Control Period. If, outside a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) twelve months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s Target Bonus for the calendar year in which such Involuntary Termination occurs, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Executive’s Date of Termination;

(iii) fifty percent (50%) of the unvested Equity Awards held by the Executive as of the Date of Termination will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable,

 

4


and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the twelve-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder (“COBRA”), the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, coverage under its group health plan (if any) at the same coverage levels in effect on the Date of Termination (“Benefits Coverage”); provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal taxable monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(d) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination During a Change in Control Period. If, during a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) eighteen months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) one hundred percent (100%) of Executive’s Target Bonus for the calendar year in which such Involuntary Termination occurs (for the avoidance of doubt, if (x) Executive incurred an Involuntary Termination prior to a Change in Control that qualifies Executive for severance payments under Section 6(c)(ii); and (y) a Change in Control occurs within the three (3)-month period following Executive’s Involuntary Termination that qualifies Executive for the increased benefits under this Section 6(d)(ii), then Executive shall be entitled to a lump-sum payment of the amount calculated under this Section 6(d)(ii), less any amount already paid under Section 6(c)(ii));

(iii) one hundred percent (100%) of all unvested Equity Awards held by Executive as of the Date of Termination, will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto effective on the later of (x) the Date of Termination or (y) the date of the Change in Control (for the avoidance of doubt, if Executive’s Involuntary Termination occurs prior to a Change in Control, then any unvested portion of Executive’s outstanding Equity Awards will remain outstanding for three (3) months or the occurrence of a Change in Control (whichever is earlier) so that any vesting acceleration benefits provided under this clause (iii) can be provided if a Change in Control occurs within three (3) months following

 

5


such termination (provided that in no event will the Equity Awards remain outstanding beyond the Equity Award’s maximum term or expiration date. In such case, if no Change in Control occurs within three (3) months following Executive’s termination, any unvested portion of Executive’s Equity Awards automatically will be forfeited without having vested; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the first anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under COBRA, the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, the Benefits Coverage; provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal taxable monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(e) No Other Severance. The provisions of this Section 6 shall supersede in their entirety any severance payment provisions in any severance plan, policy, program, or other arrangement maintained by the Company except for such additional benefits otherwise approved by the Board or Compensation Committee of the Board after the date hereof.

(f) No Requirement to Mitigate; Survival. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the termination of Executive’s employment shall not impair the rights or obligations of any Party.

7. Release and Payment Timing.

(a) Release. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any payments or other benefits due under this Agreement under Sections 6(c) and 6(d) as a result of Executive’s termination of employment (other than the Accrued Obligations) are subject to Executive’s execution and delivery of a Release, as follows: (i) the Company shall deliver the Release to Executive within five (5) days following Executive’s Date of Termination, and the Company’s failure to deliver a Release prior to the expiration of such five (5) day period shall constitute a waiver of any requirement to execute a Release, (ii) if Executive fails to execute the Release on or prior to the Release Expiration Date (as defined below) or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of the Release thereafter, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release, and (iii) if the Release does not become effective and irrevocable no later than sixty (60) days following the Date of Termination (such deadline, the “Release Deadline”), Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release. For purposes of this Section 7, “Release Expiration Date” shall mean the date that is twenty-one (21) days following the date upon which the Company timely delivers

 

6


the Release to Executive, or, in the event that Executive’s termination of employment is “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967), the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery date.

(b) Payment Timing. The payments due under Sections 6(c)(ii) and 6(d)(ii) of this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment shall be paid in a lump sum on the date that is sixty (60) days following the Date of Termination; provided, however, that, in the event of Executive’s Involuntary Termination during the Change in Control Period but prior to a Change in Control, any additional amount payable to Executive under Section 6(d)(ii) in excess of the amounts payable to such Executive under Section 6(c)(ii) shall be paid in a lump sum on the date that is sixty (60) days following the later of (x) the Date of Termination, or (y) the date of the Change in Control.

8. Non-Solicitation of Employees. For a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall not, either directly or indirectly (a) solicit for employment through any individual, corporation, firm, or other business, any employees, consultants, independent contractors, or other service providers of the Company or any of its affiliates, or (b) solicit any employee, consultant or other service provider of the Company or any of its affiliates to leave the employment or consulting of or cease providing services to the Company or any of its affiliates; provided, however, that the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) shall not apply to inbound inquiries or any general advertisement or solicitation (or any hiring pursuant to such advertisement or solicitation) that is not specifically targeted to such employees, consultants or other service providers.

9. Golden Parachute Excise Tax.

(a) Best Pay. Any provision of this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment or benefit Executive would receive from the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payment”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this sentence, be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such Payment will be equal to the Reduced Amount (as defined below). The “Reduced Amount” will be either (A) the largest portion of the Payment that would result in no portion of the Payment (after reduction) being subject to the Excise Tax or (B) the entire Payment, whichever amount after taking into account all applicable federal, state, and local employment taxes, income taxes, and the Excise Tax (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from a deduction of such state and local taxes), results in Executive’ s receipt, on an after-tax basis, of the greater economic benefit notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Payment may be subject to the Excise Tax. If a reduction in a Payment is required pursuant to the preceding sentence and the Reduced Amount is determined pursuant to clause (A) of the preceding sentence, the reduction shall occur in the manner (the “Reduction Method”) that results in the greatest economic benefit for Executive. If more than one method of reduction will result in the same economic benefit, the items so reduced will be reduced pro rata (the “Pro Rata Reduction Method”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Reduction Method or the Pro Rata Reduction Method would result in any portion of the Payment being subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A (as defined below) that would not otherwise be subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A, then the

 

7


Reduction Method and/or the Pro Rata Reduction Method, as the case may be, shall be modified so as to avoid the imposition of taxes pursuant to Section 409A as follows: (1) as a first priority, the modification shall preserve to the greatest extent possible, the greatest economic benefit for Executive as determined on an after-tax basis; (2) as a second priority, Payments that are contingent on future events (e.g., being terminated without cause), shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not contingent on future events; and (3) as a third priority, Payments that are “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A.

(b) Accounting Firm. All determinations regarding the application of this Section 9 shall be made by an independent accounting firm or consulting group with nationally recognized standing and substantial expertise and experience in performing calculations regarding the applicability of Section 280G of the Code and the Excise Tax retained by the Company prior to the date of the applicable change in ownership or control (the “280G Firm”). The Company will bear all expenses with respect to the determinations by the 280G Firm required to be made hereunder. The 280G Firm engaged to make the determinations hereunder will provide its calculations, together with detailed supporting documentation, to the Company within thirty (30) days before the consummation of a Change in Control (if requested at that time by the Company) or such other time as requested by the Company. If the 280G Firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable with respect to a Payment, either before or after the application of the Reduced Amount, it will furnish the Company with documentation reasonably acceptable to the Company that no Excise Tax will be imposed with respect to such Payment. Any good faith determinations of the 280G Firm made hereunder will be final, binding and conclusive upon the Company and Executive.

10. Section 409A.

(a) General. The intent of the Parties is that the payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date, (“Section 409A”) and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted to be in compliance therewith. If Executive notifies the Company that Executive has received advice of tax counsel of a national reputation with expertise in Section 409A that any provision of this Agreement would cause Executive to incur any additional tax or interest under Section 409A (with specificity as to the reason therefor) or the Company independently makes such determination, the Company and Executive shall take commercially reasonable efforts to reform such provision to try to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A through good faith modifications to the minimum extent reasonably appropriate to conform with Section 409A, provided that any such modifications shall not increase the cost or liability to the Company. To the extent that any provision hereof is modified in order to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A, such modification shall be made in good faith and shall, to the maximum extent reasonably possible, maintain the original intent and economic benefit to Executive and the Company of the applicable provision without violating the provisions of Section 409A.

(b) Separation from Service. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Agreement: (i) no amount that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A shall

 

8


be payable pursuant to Section 6(c) or Section 6(d) above unless the termination of Executive’s employment constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Department of Treasury Regulations (“Separation from Service”); (ii) for purposes of Section 409A, Executive’s right to receive installment payments shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments; and (iii) to the extent that any reimbursement of expenses or in-kind benefits constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A, such reimbursement or benefit shall be provided no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the expense was incurred. The amount of expenses reimbursed in one year shall not affect the amount eligible for reimbursement in any subsequent year. The amount of any in-kind benefits provided in one year shall not affect the amount of in-kind benefits provided in any other year.

(c) Specified Employee. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if Executive is deemed by the Company at the time of Executive’s Separation from Service to be a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A, to the extent delayed commencement of any portion of the benefits to which Executive is entitled under this Agreement is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Section 409A, such portion of Executive’s benefits shall not be provided to Executive prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6)-month period measured from the date of Executive’s Separation from Service with the Company or (ii) the date of Executive’s death. Upon the first business day following the expiration of the applicable Section 409A period, all payments deferred pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries), and any remaining payments due to Executive under this Agreement shall be paid as otherwise provided herein.

11. Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement any federal, state, local, or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which the Company is required to withhold. The Company shall be entitled to rely on an opinion of counsel if any questions as to the amount or requirement of withholding shall arise.

12. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) Prior Employment. Executive represents and warrants that Executive’s acceptance of employment with the Company has not breached, and the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder will not breach, any duty owed by Executive to any prior employer or other person. Executive further represents and warrants to the Company that: (a) the performance of Executive’s obligations hereunder will not violate any agreement between Executive and any other person, firm, organization, or other entity; (b) Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party to refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or other party that would be violated by Executive entering into this Agreement and/or providing services to the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; and (c) Executive’s performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement will not require Executive to, and Executive shall not, rely on in the performance of Executive’s duties or disclose to the Company or any other person or entity or induce the Company in any way to use or rely on any trade secret or other confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer of Executive.

 

9


(b) Assignment and Successors. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor to all or substantially all of the business or the assets of the Company (by merger or otherwise). This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, Executive, and their respective successors, assigns, personnel, and legal representatives, executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees, as applicable. None of Executive’s rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred by Executive, other than Executive’s rights to payments hereunder, which may be transferred only by will, operation of law, or as otherwise provided herein.

(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, construed, interpreted, and enforced in accordance with its express terms, and otherwise in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of California, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law, whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction, and where applicable, the laws of the United States, that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction.

(d) Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

(e) Amendments; Waivers. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. By an instrument in writing similarly executed, Executive or a duly authorized officer of the Company, as applicable, may waive compliance by the other Party with any specifically identified provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is obligated to comply with or perform; provided, however, that such waiver shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any other or subsequent failure. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right, remedy, or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy, or power provided herein or by law or in equity.

(f) Dispute Resolution. Unless otherwise prohibited by law or specified below, all disputes, claims and causes of action, in law or equity, arising from or relating to this Agreement or its enforcement, performance, breach, or interpretation shall be resolved solely and exclusively by final and binding arbitration held in San Diego, California, before a single, mutually-agreed neutral arbitrator, through Judicial Arbitration & Mediation Services (“JAMS”) under the then existing JAMS arbitration rules. The rules may be found online at www.jamsadr.com or upon written request to the Company. This Section 12(f) is intended to be the exclusive method for resolving any and all claims by the Parties against each other relating to Executive’s employment; provided that Executive will retain the right to file administrative charges with or seek relief through any government agency of competent jurisdiction, and to participate in any government investigation, including but not limited to (i) claims for workers’ compensation, state disability insurance or unemployment insurance; (ii) claims for unpaid wages or waiting time penalties brought before the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (provided that any appeal from an award or from denial of an award of wages and/or waiting time penalties shall be arbitrated pursuant to the terms of this paragraph); and (iii) claims for administrative relief from the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and/or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (or any similar agency in any applicable jurisdiction other than California); provided, further, that, except as otherwise provided by law, Executive will not be

 

10


entitled to obtain any monetary relief through such agencies other than workers’ compensation benefits or unemployment insurance benefits. Further, nothing in this Section 12(f) is intended to prevent either Party from obtaining injunctive relief in court to prevent irreparable harm pending the conclusion of any such arbitration, including without limitation injunctive relief, in any court of competent jurisdiction pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure §1281.8 or any similar statute of an applicable jurisdiction. Seeking any such relief shall not be deemed to be a waiver of such Party’s right to compel arbitration. In resolving any matter submitted to arbitration, the arbitrator will strictly follow the substantive law applicable to the dispute, claim or controversy and the arbitrator’s authority and jurisdiction will be limited to determining the dispute in conformity with applicable law as to liability, damages and remedies, to the same extent as if the dispute was determined by a court without a jury. The arbitrator will issue a written decision that contains the essential findings of fact and conclusions of law on which the decision is based, which may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction. The Company shall pay all costs of arbitration, including without limitation, arbitration administrative fees, arbitrator compensation and expenses, and costs of any witnesses called by the arbitrator. Unless otherwise ordered by the arbitrator under applicable law, the Company and Executive shall each bear its or his own expenses, such as attorneys’ fees, costs and disbursements. The prevailing party in any arbitration or other dispute between the parties will be entitled to an award of attorneys’ fees and costs, in addition to any other relief. Each Party warrants that it has had the opportunity to be represented by counsel in the negotiation and execution of this Agreement, including the attorneys’ fees provision herein. Both Executive and the Company expressly waive his and its right to a jury trial. Executive furthers waives his right to pursue claims against the Company on a class basis; provided, however, that Executive does not waive his right, to the extent preserved by law, to pursue representative claims against the Company under the California Private Attorney General Act.

(g) Enforcement. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable under present or future laws, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision had never comprised a portion of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement. Furthermore, in lieu of such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision there shall be added automatically as part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable.

(h) Entire Agreement. The terms of this Agreement are intended by the Parties to be the final expression of their agreement with respect to the employment of Executive by the Company and supersede all prior understandings and agreements, whether written or oral, regarding Executive’s employment with the Company. The Parties further intend that this Agreement shall constitute the complete and exclusive statement of their terms and that no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may be introduced in any judicial, administrative, or other legal proceeding to vary the terms of this Agreement.

(i) Executive Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges that Executive has read and understands this Agreement, is fully aware of its legal effect, has not acted in reliance

 

11


upon any representations or promises made by the Company other than those contained in writing herein, and has entered into this Agreement freely based on Executive’s own judgment.

(j) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same Agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile shall be deemed effective for all purposes.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

12


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris, Ph.D.

Name:   Todd Harris, Ph.D.
Title:   Chief Executive Officer

 

EXECUTIVE
By:  

/s/ Hiroomi Tada, M.D., Ph.D.

Name:   Hiroomi Tada, M.D., Ph.D.

 

[Signature Page to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement]


APPENDIX I

DEFINITIONS

All defined terms used in this Appendix I that are not otherwise defined in this Appendix I shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Employment Agreement to which this Appendix I relates.

Cause” shall mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following events or conditions:

(i) any material failure on the part of Executive (other than by reason of Disability of Executive) to faithfully and professionally carry out Executive’s duties which failure continues for ten (10) days after written notice detailing such failure is delivered to Executive by the Company;

(ii) Executive’s dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of the Company;

(iii) Executive’s conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony.

(iv) Executive’s insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Executive to perform the same;

(v) Executive’s material breach of any written agreement with the Company or any of its affiliates or material violation of the Company’s Code of Conduct or any other material written policy of the Company; or

(vi) Any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Executive.

Change in Control” shall have the meaning given to such term in the Company’s 2021 Incentive Award Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a Change in Control constitutes a payment event with respect to any amount hereunder that provides for the deferral of compensation that is subject to Section 409A, to the extent required to avoid the imposition of additional taxes under Section 409A, the transaction or event shall only constitute a Change in Control for purposes of the payment timing of such amount if such transaction also constitutes a “change in control event,” as defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5).

Change in Control Period” shall mean the period commencing three (3) months prior to a Change in Control and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary of the Change in Control.

Disability” shall mean permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

Good Reason” shall mean any one of the following: (i) the material reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all


other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in Executive’s Annual Base Salary); (ii) a material reduction of Executive’s duties and responsibilities from those in effect on the Effective Date; (iii) the Company’s material breach of this Agreement (other than a reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in Executive’s Annual Base Salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Executive’s principal place of employment that increases Executive’s one-way commute by more than thirty-five (35) miles, provided, that, in each case, Executive will not be deemed to have Good Reason unless (A)Executive first provides the Board with written notice of the condition giving rise to Good Reason within thirty (30)days of its initial occurrence, (B)the Company or the successor company fails to cure such condition within ten (10)days after receiving such written notice (the “Cure Period”), and (C)Executive’s resignation based on such Good Reason is effective within thirty (30)days after the expiration of the Cure Period.

Involuntary Termination” shall mean Executive’s termination (A) by the Company without Cause, (B) by Executive for Good Reason, (C) due to death or (D) due to Disability.

Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, or other business entity.

EX-10.17

Exhibit 10.17

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Amended and Restated Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into as of August 18, 2021, by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Robert Hudkins (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”). This Agreement will be effective upon the consummation of the Company’s initial public offering (the “IPO”) of its common stock (the “Effective Date”). In the event the IPO does not occur, this Agreement shall be of no force or effect and the Prior Agreement shall continue. Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have those meanings set forth in Appendix I hereto.

WHEREAS, the Company and Executive are parties to that certain Employment Agreement dated as of January 1, 2021 (the “Prior Agreement”);

WHEREAS, the Company desires to retain the services of Executive by engaging Executive to perform services as an employee of the Company under the terms hereof; and

WHEREAS, Executive desires to provide services to the Company on the terms hereof.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, including the respective covenants and agreements set forth below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Employment.

(a) General. The Company shall continue to employ Executive upon the terms and conditions provided herein effective as of the Effective Date.

(b) Position and Duties. Executive shall serve as the Company’s Chief Technology Officer, with responsibilities, duties, and authority usual and customary for such position subject to direction by the Chief Operating Officer (the “COO”). During Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive shall report directly to the COO and agrees promptly and faithfully to comply with all present and future policies, requirements, rules and regulations, and reasonable directions and requests, of the Company in connection with the Company’s business. Executive will at all times perform all of the duties and obligations required by Executive under this Agreement in a loyal and conscientious manner and to the best of Executive’s ability and experience.

(c) Performance of Executive’s Duties. During Executive’s employment with the Company, and except for periods of illness, vacation, Disability, or excused leaves of absence, Executive shall devote Executive’s full time and attention to the business and affairs of the Company pursuant to the general direction of the COO; provided that nothing herein shall preclude Executive from, subject to prior consent of the COO: (i) engaging in additional activities in connection with personal investments and community affairs including service on non-profit boards of directors; (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors for for-profit organizations that are not competitors of the Company; and (iii) serving as an advisor, or as a member of an advisory board of organizations that are not competitors of the Company; provided such activities


do not individually or in the aggregate interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement, violate the Company’s standards of conduct then in effect or raise a conflict under the Company’s conflict of interest policies.

2. Term. The period of Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall continue until Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated. The phrase “Term of Employment” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the entire period of employment of Executive by the Company.

3. Compensation and Related Matters.

(a) Annual Base Salary. Executive shall receive a base salary at the rate of $410,000 per annum (as may be increased from time to time, the “Annual Base Salary”), subject to withholdings and deductions, which shall be paid to Executive in accordance with the customary payroll practices and procedures of the Company. Such Annual Base Salary shall be reviewed by the COO, and as applicable, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”), not less than annually, and may be increased, but not decreased, in connection with any such review.

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible to receive a discretionary annual bonus (the “Annual Bonus”) based on Executive’s achievement of performance objectives in accordance with the terms set forth by the Board. Executive’s target Annual Bonus shall be equal to 40% of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (the “Target Bonus”). Except as set forth in Section 6, Executive must be employed by the Company on the date of payment of any Annual Bonus to remain eligible to receive such Annual Bonus. Any Annual Bonus earned will be paid at the same time annual bonuses are paid to other executives of the Company generally, subject to any limitations on payment as set forth in Section 6.

(c) Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee and executive benefit plans and programs as the Company may offer from time to time to provide to its executives, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein is intended, or shall be construed, to require the Company to institute or continue any, or any particular, plan, or benefits.

(d) Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket travel and other business expenses incurred by Executive in the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company in accordance with the Company’s applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures as are in effect from time to time. The Company will also cover the expense of travel, room and board when working from Company headquarters in Carlsbad, CA.

(e) Vacation; Paid Time Off. Executive will be entitled to vacation or paid time off in accordance with the Company’s policy.

(f) Equity Awards. Executive shall be eligible to receive grants of equity awards in the Company’s sole discretion.

(g) Indemnification Agreement; Insurance. As an officer of the Company, Executive shall be entitled to enter into the Company’s standard indemnification agreement.

 

2


Executive will also be covered under a directors and officers liability insurance policy paid for by the Company for so long as Executive serves as an officer of the Company.

4. Acceleration of Equity Awards Upon a Change in Control. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of a Change in Control, the vesting of Executive’s then outstanding options, restricted stock and other equity awards covering shares of the Company’s common stock (collectively, “Equity Awards”) shall accelerate as of immediately prior to such Change in Control with respect to fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to such Equity Awards. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to Executive’s Equity Awards shall continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the Change in Control, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Executive’s Equity Awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the Change in Control shall thereupon vest in full, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through such first anniversary. Notwithstanding the foregoing and for the avoidance of doubt, any shares subject to Equity Awards that do not accelerate immediately prior to the Change in Control in accordance with the foregoing shall be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6(d)(iii) below.

5. Termination.

(a) At-Will Employment. The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and shall continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law. This means that it is not for any specified period of time and can be terminated by Executive or by the Company at any time, with or without advance notice, and for any or no particular reason or cause. It also means that Executive’s job duties, title, and responsibility and reporting level, work schedule, compensation, and benefits, as well as the Company’s personnel policies and procedures, may be changed with prospective effect, with or without notice, at any time in the sole discretion of the Company (subject to any ramification such changes may have under Section 6 of this Agreement). This “at-will” nature of Executive’s employment shall remain unchanged during Executive’s tenure as an employee and may not be changed, except in an express writing signed by Executive and the COO. If Executive’s employment terminates for any lawful reason, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, Equity Awards or other compensation other than as provided in this Agreement.

(b) Notice of Termination. During the Term of Employment, any termination of Executive’s employment by the Company or by Executive (other than by reason of death) shall be communicated by written notice (a “Notice of Termination”) from one Party hereto to the other Party hereto (i) indicating the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, if any, (ii) setting forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated and (iii) specifying the date of the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (the “Date of Termination”). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder. The failure by Executive to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Good Reason shall not waive any right of

 

3


Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

(c) Deemed Resignation. Upon termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from all offices and board memberships, if any, then held with the Company or any of its affiliates, and, at the Company’s request, Executive shall execute such documents as are necessary or desirable to effectuate such resignations.

6. Consequences of Termination.

(a) Release. In the event Executive’s employment with the Company terminates pursuant to Section 5, then Executive shall be entitled to the applicable payments and benefits set forth below subject to, in the case of a termination described in 6(c) or 6(d), Executive delivering to the Company a waiver and release of claims agreement in standard reasonable form approved by the Company that becomes effective and irrevocable in accordance with Section 7 hereof (a “Release”).

(b) Payments upon Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason. Upon a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause or by Executive without Good Reason, Executive (or Executive’s estate or legal representative, as applicable) shall be entitled to receive, within thirty (30) days of the effective date of termination of employment with the Company (whether such termination of employment is effected by the Company or Executive) (or such earlier date as may be required by applicable law): (i) any portion of Executive’s Annual Base Salary earned through Executive’s Date of Termination not theretofore paid; (ii) any reimbursement of expenses owed to Executive under Section 3(e) above; and (iii) any accrued but unused vacation or paid time-off owed to Executive ((i)-(iii) defined as the “Accrued Obligations”). In the event Executive is terminated by the Company for Cause, Executive shall forfeit, effective as of the date Executive engages in such conduct giving rise to his termination for Cause, all unexercised, unearned and/or unpaid Equity Awards, including without limitation, Equity Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing.

(c) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination Outside a Change in Control Period. If, outside a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) twelve months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s Target Bonus for the calendar year in which such Involuntary Termination occurs, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Executive’s Date of Termination;

(iii) fifty percent (50%) of the unvested Equity Awards held by the Executive as of the Date of Termination will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable,

 

4


and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the twelve-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder (“COBRA”), the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, coverage under its group health plan (if any) at the same coverage levels in effect on the Date of Termination (“Benefits Coverage”); provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal taxable monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(d) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination During a Change in Control Period. If, during a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) eighteen months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) one hundred (100%) of Executive’s Target Bonus for the calendar year in which such Involuntary Termination occurs (for the avoidance of doubt, if (x) Executive incurred an Involuntary Termination prior to a Change in Control that qualifies Executive for severance payments under Section 6(c)(ii); and (y) a Change in Control occurs within the three (3)-month period following Executive’s Involuntary Termination that qualifies Executive for the increased benefits under this Section 6(d)(ii), then Executive shall be entitled to a lump-sum payment of the amount calculated under this Section 6(d)(ii), less any amount already paid under Section 6(c)(ii));

(iii) one hundred percent (100%) of all unvested Equity Awards held by Executive as of the Date of Termination, will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto effective on the later of (x) the Date of Termination or (y) the date of the Change in Control (for the avoidance of doubt, if Executive’s Involuntary Termination occurs prior to a Change in Control, then any unvested portion of Executive’s outstanding Equity Awards will remain outstanding for three (3) months or the occurrence of a Change in Control (whichever is earlier) so that any vesting acceleration benefits provided under this clause (iii) can be provided if a Change in Control occurs within three (3) months following

 

5


such termination (provided that in no event will the Equity Awards remain outstanding beyond the Equity Award’s maximum term or expiration date. In such case, if no Change in Control occurs within three (3) months following Executive’s termination, any unvested portion of Executive’s Equity Awards automatically will be forfeited without having vested; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the first anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under COBRA, the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, the Benefits Coverage; provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(e) No Other Severance. The provisions of this Section 6 shall supersede in their entirety any severance payment provisions in any severance plan, policy, program, or other arrangement maintained by the Company except for such additional benefits otherwise approved by the Board or Compensation Committee of the Board after the date hereof.

(f) No Requirement to Mitigate; Survival. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the termination of Executive’s employment shall not impair the rights or obligations of any Party.

7. Release and Payment Timing.

(a) Release. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any payments or other benefits due under this Agreement under Sections 6(c) and 6(d) as a result of Executive’s termination of employment (other than the Accrued Obligations) are subject to Executive’s execution and delivery of a Release, as follows: (i) the Company shall deliver the Release to Executive within five (5) days following Executive’s Date of Termination, and the Company’s failure to deliver a Release prior to the expiration of such five (5) day period shall constitute a waiver of any requirement to execute a Release, (ii) if Executive fails to execute the Release on or prior to the Release Expiration Date (as defined below) or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of the Release thereafter, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release, and (iii) if the Release does not become effective and irrevocable no later than sixty (60) days following the Date of Termination (such deadline, the “Release Deadline”), Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release. For purposes of this Section 7, “Release Expiration Date” shall mean the date that is twenty-one (21) days following the date upon which the Company timely delivers

 

6


the Release to Executive, or, in the event that Executive’s termination of employment is “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967), the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery date.

(b) Payment Timing. The payments due under Sections 6(c)(ii) and 6(d)(ii) of this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment shall be paid in a lump sum on the date that is sixty (60) days following the Date of Termination; provided, however, that, in the event of Executive’s Involuntary Termination during the Change in Control Period but prior to a Change in Control, any additional amount payable to Executive under Section 6(d)(ii) in excess of the amounts payable to such Executive under Section 6(c)(ii) shall be paid in a lump sum on the date that is sixty (60) days following the later of (x) the Date of Termination, or (y) the date of the Change in Control.

8. Non-Solicitation of Employees. For a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall not, either directly or indirectly (a) solicit for employment through any individual, corporation, firm, or other business, any employees, consultants, independent contractors, or other service providers of the Company or any of its affiliates, or (b) solicit any employee, consultant or other service provider of the Company or any of its affiliates to leave the employment or consulting of or cease providing services to the Company or any of its affiliates; provided, however, that the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) shall not apply to inbound inquiries or any general advertisement or solicitation (or any hiring pursuant to such advertisement or solicitation) that is not specifically targeted to such employees, consultants or other service providers.

9. Golden Parachute Excise Tax.

(a) Best Pay. Any provision of this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment or benefit Executive would receive from the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payment”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this sentence, be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such Payment will be equal to the Reduced Amount (as defined below). The “Reduced Amount” will be either (A) the largest portion of the Payment that would result in no portion of the Payment (after reduction) being subject to the Excise Tax or (B) the entire Payment, whichever amount after taking into account all applicable federal, state, and local employment taxes, income taxes, and the Excise Tax (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from a deduction of such state and local taxes), results in Executive’ s receipt, on an after-tax basis, of the greater economic benefit notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Payment may be subject to the Excise Tax. If a reduction in a Payment is required pursuant to the preceding sentence and the Reduced Amount is determined pursuant to clause (A) of the preceding sentence, the reduction shall occur in the manner (the “Reduction Method”) that results in the greatest economic benefit for Executive. If more than one method of reduction will result in the same economic benefit, the items so reduced will be reduced pro rata (the “Pro Rata Reduction Method”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Reduction Method or the Pro Rata Reduction Method would result in any portion of the Payment being subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A (as defined below) that would not otherwise be subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A, then the

 

7


Reduction Method and/or the Pro Rata Reduction Method, as the case may be, shall be modified so as to avoid the imposition of taxes pursuant to Section 409A as follows: (1) as a first priority, the modification shall preserve to the greatest extent possible, the greatest economic benefit for Executive as determined on an after-tax basis; (2) as a second priority, Payments that are contingent on future events (e.g., being terminated without cause), shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not contingent on future events; and (3) as a third priority, Payments that are “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A.

(b) Accounting Firm. All determinations regarding the application of this Section 9 shall be made by an independent accounting firm or consulting group with nationally recognized standing and substantial expertise and experience in performing calculations regarding the applicability of Section 280G of the Code and the Excise Tax retained by the Company prior to the date of the applicable change in ownership or control (the “280G Firm”). The Company will bear all expenses with respect to the determinations by the 280G Firm required to be made hereunder. The 280G Firm engaged to make the determinations hereunder will provide its calculations, together with detailed supporting documentation, to the Company within thirty (30) days before the consummation of a Change in Control (if requested at that time by the Company) or such other time as requested by the Company. If the 280G Firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable with respect to a Payment, either before or after the application of the Reduced Amount, it will furnish the Company with documentation reasonably acceptable to the Company that no Excise Tax will be imposed with respect to such Payment. Any good faith determinations of the 280G Firm made hereunder will be final, binding and conclusive upon the Company and Executive.

10. Section 409A.

(a) General. The intent of the Parties is that the payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date, (“Section 409A”) and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted to be in compliance therewith. If Executive notifies the Company that Executive has received advice of tax counsel of a national reputation with expertise in Section 409A that any provision of this Agreement would cause Executive to incur any additional tax or interest under Section 409A (with specificity as to the reason therefor) or the Company independently makes such determination, the Company and Executive shall take commercially reasonable efforts to reform such provision to try to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A through good faith modifications to the minimum extent reasonably appropriate to conform with Section 409A, provided that any such modifications shall not increase the cost or liability to the Company. To the extent that any provision hereof is modified in order to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A, such modification shall be made in good faith and shall, to the maximum extent reasonably possible, maintain the original intent and economic benefit to Executive and the Company of the applicable provision without violating the provisions of Section 409A.

(b) Separation from Service. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Agreement: (i) no amount that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A shall

 

8


be payable pursuant to Section 6(c) or Section 6(d) above unless the termination of Executive’s employment constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 1.409A-1(h) of the Department of Treasury Regulations (“Separation from Service”); (ii) for purposes of Section 409A, Executive’s right to receive installment payments shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments; and (iii) to the extent that any reimbursement of expenses or in-kind benefits constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A, such reimbursement or benefit shall be provided no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the expense was incurred. The amount of expenses reimbursed in one year shall not affect the amount eligible for reimbursement in any subsequent year. The amount of any in-kind benefits provided in one year shall not affect the amount of in-kind benefits provided in any other year.

(c) Specified Employee. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if Executive is deemed by the Company at the time of Executive’s Separation from Service to be a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A, to the extent delayed commencement of any portion of the benefits to which Executive is entitled under this Agreement is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Section 409A, such portion of Executive’s benefits shall not be provided to Executive prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6)-month period measured from the date of Executive’s Separation from Service with the Company or (ii) the date of Executive’s death. Upon the first business day following the expiration of the applicable Section 409A period, all payments deferred pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries), and any remaining payments due to Executive under this Agreement shall be paid as otherwise provided herein.

11. Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement any federal, state, local, or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which the Company is required to withhold. The Company shall be entitled to rely on an opinion of counsel if any questions as to the amount or requirement of withholding shall arise.

12. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) Prior Employment. Executive represents and warrants that Executive’s acceptance of employment with the Company has not breached, and the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder will not breach, any duty owed by Executive to any prior employer or other person. Executive further represents and warrants to the Company that: (a) the performance of Executive’s obligations hereunder will not violate any agreement between Executive and any other person, firm, organization, or other entity; (b) Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party to refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or other party that would be violated by Executive entering into this Agreement and/or providing services to the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; and (c) Executive’s performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement will not require Executive to, and Executive shall not, rely on in the performance of Executive’s duties or disclose to the Company or any other person or entity or induce the Company in any way to use or rely on any trade secret or other confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer of Executive.

 

9


(b) Assignment and Successors. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor to all or substantially all of the business or the assets of the Company (by merger or otherwise). This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Company, Executive, and their respective successors, assigns, personnel, and legal representatives, executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees, as applicable. None of Executive’s rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred by Executive, other than Executive’s rights to payments hereunder, which may be transferred only by will, operation of law, or as otherwise provided herein.

(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, construed, interpreted, and enforced in accordance with its express terms, and otherwise in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of California, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law, whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction, and where applicable, the laws of the United States, that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction.

(d) Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

(e) Amendments; Waivers. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. By an instrument in writing similarly executed, Executive or a duly authorized officer of the Company, as applicable, may waive compliance by the other Party with any specifically identified provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is obligated to comply with or perform; provided, however, that such waiver shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any other or subsequent failure. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right, remedy, or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy, or power provided herein or by law or in equity.

(f) Dispute Resolution. Unless otherwise prohibited by law or specified below, all disputes, claims and causes of action, in law or equity, arising from or relating to this Agreement or its enforcement, performance, breach, or interpretation shall be resolved solely and exclusively by final and binding arbitration held in San Diego, California, before a single, mutually-agreed neutral arbitrator, through Judicial Arbitration & Mediation Services (“JAMS”) under the then existing JAMS arbitration rules. The rules may be found online at www.jamsadr.com or upon written request to the Company. This Section 12(f) is intended to be the exclusive method for resolving any and all claims by the Parties against each other relating to Executive’s employment; provided that Executive will retain the right to file administrative charges with or seek relief through any government agency of competent jurisdiction, and to participate in any government investigation, including but not limited to (i) claims for workers’ compensation, state disability insurance or unemployment insurance; (ii) claims for unpaid wages or waiting time penalties brought before the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (provided that any appeal from an award or from denial of an award of wages and/or waiting time penalties shall be arbitrated pursuant to the terms of this paragraph); and (iii) claims for administrative relief from the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and/or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (or any similar agency in any applicable jurisdiction other than California); provided, further, that, except as otherwise provided by law, Executive will not be

 

10


entitled to obtain any monetary relief through such agencies other than workers’ compensation benefits or unemployment insurance benefits. Further, nothing in this Section 12(f) is intended to prevent either Party from obtaining injunctive relief in court to prevent irreparable harm pending the conclusion of any such arbitration, including without limitation injunctive relief, in any court of competent jurisdiction pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure §1281.8 or any similar statute of an applicable jurisdiction. Seeking any such relief shall not be deemed to be a waiver of such Party’s right to compel arbitration. In resolving any matter submitted to arbitration, the arbitrator will strictly follow the substantive law applicable to the dispute, claim or controversy and the arbitrator’s authority and jurisdiction will be limited to determining the dispute in conformity with applicable law as to liability, damages and remedies, to the same extent as if the dispute was determined by a court without a jury. The arbitrator will issue a written decision that contains the essential findings of fact and conclusions of law on which the decision is based, which may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction. The Company shall pay all costs of arbitration, including without limitation, arbitration administrative fees, arbitrator compensation and expenses, and costs of any witnesses called by the arbitrator. Unless otherwise ordered by the arbitrator under applicable law, the Company and Executive shall each bear its or his own expenses, such as attorneys’ fees, costs and disbursements. The prevailing party in any arbitration or other dispute between the parties will be entitled to an award of attorneys’ fees and costs, in addition to any other relief. Each Party warrants that it has had the opportunity to be represented by counsel in the negotiation and execution of this Agreement, including the attorneys’ fees provision herein. Both Executive and the Company expressly waive his and its right to a jury trial. Executive furthers waives his right to pursue claims against the Company on a class basis; provided, however, that Executive does not waive his right, to the extent preserved by law, to pursue representative claims against the Company under the California Private Attorney General Act.

(g) Enforcement. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable under present or future laws, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision had never comprised a portion of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement. Furthermore, in lieu of such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision there shall be added automatically as part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable.

(h) Entire Agreement. The terms of this Agreement are intended by the Parties to be the final expression of their agreement with respect to the employment of Executive by the Company and supersede all prior understandings and agreements, whether written or oral, regarding Executive’s employment with the Company. The Parties further intend that this Agreement shall constitute the complete and exclusive statement of their terms and that no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may be introduced in any judicial, administrative, or other legal proceeding to vary the terms of this Agreement.

(i) Executive Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges that Executive has read and understands this Agreement, is fully aware of its legal effect, has not acted in reliance

 

11


upon any representations or promises made by the Company other than those contained in writing herein, and has entered into this Agreement freely based on Executive’s own judgment.

(j) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same Agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile shall be deemed effective for all purposes.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

12


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris, Ph.D.

Name:   Todd Harris, Ph.D.
Title:   Chief Executive Officer
EXECUTIVE
By:  

/s/ Robert Hudkins, Ph.D.

Name:   Robert Hudkins, Ph.D.

 

[Signature Page to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement]


APPENDIX I

DEFINITIONS

All defined terms used in this Appendix I that are not otherwise defined in this Appendix I shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Employment Agreement to which this Appendix I relates.

Cause” shall mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following events or conditions:

(i) any material failure on the part of Executive (other than by reason of Disability of Executive) to faithfully and professionally carry out Executive’s duties which failure continues for ten (10) days after written notice detailing such failure is delivered to Executive by the Company;

(ii) Executive’s dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of the Company;

(iii) Executive’s conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony.

(iv) Executive’s insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Executive to perform the same;

(v) Executive’s material breach of any written agreement with the Company or any of its affiliates or material violation of the Company’s Code of Conduct or any other material written policy of the Company; or

(vi) Any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Executive.

Change in Control” shall have the meaning given to such term in the Company’s 2021 Incentive Award Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a Change in Control constitutes a payment event with respect to any amount hereunder that provides for the deferral of compensation that is subject to Section 409A, to the extent required to avoid the imposition of additional taxes under Section 409A, the transaction or event shall only constitute a Change in Control for purposes of the payment timing of such amount if such transaction also constitutes a “change in control event,” as defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5).

Change in Control Period” shall mean the period commencing three (3) months prior to a Change in Control and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary of the Change in Control.

Disability” shall mean permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

Good Reason” shall mean any one of the following: (i) the material reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all


other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in Executive’s Annual Base Salary); (ii) a material reduction of Executive’s duties and responsibilities from those in effect on the Effective Date; (iii) the Company’s material breach of this Agreement (other than a reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in Executive’s Annual Base Salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Executive’s principal place of employment that increases Executive’s one-way commute by more than thirty-five (35) miles, provided, that, in each case, Executive will not be deemed to have Good Reason unless (A)Executive first provides the Board with written notice of the condition giving rise to Good Reason within thirty (30)days of its initial occurrence, (B)the Company or the successor company fails to cure such condition within ten (10)days after receiving such written notice (the “Cure Period”), and (C)Executive’s resignation based on such Good Reason is effective within thirty (30)days after the expiration of the Cure Period.

Involuntary Termination” shall mean Executive’s termination (A) by the Company without Cause, (B) by Executive for Good Reason, (C) due to death or (D) due to Disability.

Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, or other business entity.

EX-10.18

Exhibit 10.18

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.

AMENDED AND RESTATED EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT

This Amended and Restated Employment Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered into as of August 18, 2021, by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”) and Piyush Patel (“Executive” and, together with the Company, the “Parties”). This Agreement will be effective upon the consummation of the Company’s initial public offering (the “IPO”) of its common stock (the “Effective Date”). In the event the IPO does not occur, this Agreement shall be of no force or effect and the Prior Agreement shall continue. Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined shall have those meanings set forth in Appendix I hereto.

WHEREAS, the Company and Executive are parties to that certain Employment Agreement dated as of January 18, 2021 (the “Prior Agreement”);

WHEREAS, the Company desires to retain the services of Executive by engaging Executive to perform services as an employee of the Company under the terms hereof; and

WHEREAS, Executive desires to provide services to the Company on the terms hereof.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing, and for other good and valuable consideration, including the respective covenants and agreements set forth below, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Employment.

(a) General. The Company shall continue to employ Executive upon the terms and conditions provided herein effective as of the Effective Date.

(b) Position and Duties. Executive shall serve as the Company’s Chief Development Officer, with responsibilities, duties, and authority usual and customary for such position subject to direction by the Chief Operating Officer (the “COO”). During Executive’s employment with the Company, Executive shall report directly to the COO and agrees promptly and faithfully to comply with all present and future policies, requirements, rules and regulations, and reasonable directions and requests, of the Company in connection with the Company’s business. Executive will at all times perform all of the duties and obligations required by Executive under this Agreement in a loyal and conscientious manner and to the best of Executive’s ability and experience.

(c) Performance of Executive’s Duties. During Executive’s employment with the Company, and except for periods of illness, vacation, Disability, or excused leaves of absence, Executive shall devote Executive’s full time and attention to the business and affairs of the Company pursuant to the general direction of the COO; provided that nothing herein shall preclude Executive from, subject to prior consent of the COO: (i) engaging in additional activities in connection with personal investments and community affairs including service on non-profit boards of directors; (ii) serving as a member of the board of directors for for-profit organizations that are not competitors of the Company; and (iii) serving as an advisor, or as a member of an advisory board of organizations that are not competitors of the Company; provided such activities


do not individually or in the aggregate interfere with the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement, violate the Company’s standards of conduct then in effect or raise a conflict under the Company’s conflict of interest policies.

2. Term. The period of Executive’s employment under this Agreement shall continue until Executive’s employment with the Company is terminated. The phrase “Term of Employment” as used in this Agreement shall refer to the entire period of employment of Executive by the Company.

3. Compensation and Related Matters.

(a) Annual Base Salary. Executive shall receive a base salary at the rate of $410,000 per annum (as may be increased from time to time, the “Annual Base Salary”), subject to withholdings and deductions, which shall be paid to Executive in accordance with the customary payroll practices and procedures of the Company. Such Annual Base Salary shall be reviewed by the COO, and as applicable, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”), not less than annually, and may be increased, but not decreased, in connection with any such review.

(b) Annual Bonus. Executive shall be eligible to receive a discretionary annual bonus (the “Annual Bonus”) based on Executive’s achievement of performance objectives as mutually agreed between Executive and the COO. Executive’s target Annual Bonus shall be equal to 40% of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (the “Target Bonus”). Except as set forth in Section 6, Executive must be employed by the Company on the date of payment of any Annual Bonus to remain eligible to receive such Annual Bonus. Any Annual Bonus earned will be paid at the same time annual bonuses are paid to other executives of the Company generally, subject to any limitations on payment as set forth in Section 6.

(c) Benefits. Executive shall be entitled to participate in such employee and executive benefit plans and programs as the Company may offer from time to time to provide to its executives, subject to the terms and conditions of such plans. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein is intended, or shall be construed, to require the Company to institute or continue any, or any particular, plan, or benefits.

(d) Business Expenses. The Company shall reimburse Executive for all reasonable, documented, out-of-pocket travel and other business expenses incurred by Executive in the performance of Executive’s duties to the Company in accordance with the Company’s applicable expense reimbursement policies and procedures as are in effect from time to time. The Company will also cover the expense of travel, room and board when working from Company headquarters in Carlsbad, CA.

(e) Vacation; Paid Time Off. Executive will be entitled to vacation or paid time off in accordance with the Company’s policy.

(f) Equity Awards. Executive shall be eligible to receive grants of equity awards in the Company’s sole discretion.

(g) Indemnification Agreement; Insurance. As an officer of the Company, Executive shall be entitled to enter into the Company’s standard indemnification agreement.

 

2


Executive will also be covered under a directors and officers liability insurance policy paid for by the Company for so long as Executive serves as an officer of the Company.

4. Acceleration of Equity Awards Upon a Change in Control. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, in the event of a Change in Control, the vesting of Executive’s then outstanding options, restricted stock and other equity awards covering shares of the Company’s common stock (collectively, “Equity Awards”) shall accelerate as of immediately prior to such Change in Control with respect to fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to such Equity Awards. The remaining fifty percent (50%) of the unvested shares of Company common stock subject to Executive’s Equity Awards shall continue to vest at the same rate as immediately prior to the Change in Control, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through the applicable vesting date. Any portion of Executive’s Equity Awards that remains unvested as of the first anniversary of the Change in Control shall thereupon vest in full, subject to Executive’s continued employment with the Company or its successor through such first anniversary. Notwithstanding the foregoing and for the avoidance of doubt, any shares subject to Equity Awards that do not accelerate immediately prior to the Change in Control in accordance with the foregoing shall be subject to accelerated vesting in accordance with Section 6(d)(iii) below.

5. Termination.

(a) At-Will Employment. The Company and Executive acknowledge that Executive’s employment is and shall continue to be at-will, as defined under applicable law. This means that it is not for any specified period of time and can be terminated by Executive or by the Company at any time, with or without advance notice, and for any or no particular reason or cause. It also means that Executive’s job duties, title, and responsibility and reporting level, work schedule, compensation, and benefits, as well as the Company’s personnel policies and procedures, may be changed with prospective effect, with or without notice, at any time in the sole discretion of the Company (subject to any ramification such changes may have under Section 6 of this Agreement). This “at-will” nature of Executive’s employment shall remain unchanged during Executive’s tenure as an employee and may not be changed, except in an express writing signed by Executive and the COO. If Executive’s employment terminates for any lawful reason, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments, benefits, Equity Awards or other compensation other than as provided in this Agreement.

(b) Notice of Termination. During the Term of Employment, any termination of Executive’s employment by the Company or by Executive (other than by reason of death) shall be communicated by written notice (a “Notice of Termination”) from one Party hereto to the other Party hereto (i) indicating the specific termination provision in this Agreement relied upon, if any, (ii) setting forth in reasonable detail the facts and circumstances claimed to provide a basis for termination of Executive’s employment under the provision so indicated and (iii) specifying the date of the termination of Executive’s employment with the Company (the “Date of Termination”). The failure by the Company to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Cause shall not waive any right of the Company hereunder or preclude the Company from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing its rights hereunder. The failure by Executive to set forth in the Notice of Termination all of the facts and circumstances which contribute to a showing of Good Reason shall not waive any right of

 

3


Executive hereunder or preclude Executive from asserting such fact or circumstance in enforcing Executive’s rights hereunder.

(c) Deemed Resignation. Upon termination of Executive’s employment with the Company for any reason, Executive shall be deemed to have resigned from all offices and board memberships, if any, then held with the Company or any of its affiliates, and, at the Company’s request, Executive shall execute such documents as are necessary or desirable to effectuate such resignations.

6. Consequences of Termination.

(a) Release. In the event Executive’s employment with the Company terminates pursuant to Section 5, then Executive shall be entitled to the applicable payments and benefits set forth below subject to, in the case of a termination described in Section 6(c) or 6(d), Executive delivering to the Company a waiver and release of claims agreement in standard reasonable form approved by the Company that becomes effective and irrevocable in accordance with Section 7 hereof (a “Release”).

(b) Payments upon Termination by the Company for Cause or by Executive Without Good Reason. Upon a termination of Executive’s employment with the Company at any time for Cause or by Executive without Good Reason, Executive (or Executive’s estate or legal representative, as applicable) shall be entitled to receive, within thirty (30) days of the effective date of termination of employment with the Company (whether such termination of employment is effected by the Company or Executive) (or such earlier date as may be required by applicable law): (i) any portion of Executive’s Annual Base Salary earned through Executive’s Date of Termination not theretofore paid; (ii) any reimbursement of expenses owed to Executive under Section 3(e) above; and (iii) any accrued but unused vacation or paid time-off owed to Executive ((i)-(iii) defined as the “Accrued Obligations”). In the event Executive is terminated by the Company for Cause, Executive shall forfeit, effective as of the date Executive engages in such conduct giving rise to his termination for Cause, all unexercised, unearned and/or unpaid Equity Awards, including without limitation, Equity Awards earned but not yet paid, all unpaid dividends and dividend equivalents and all interest, if any, accrued on the foregoing.

(c) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination Outside a Change in Control Period. If, outside a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) twelve months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) Executive’s Target Bonus for the calendar year in which such Involuntary Termination occurs, pro-rated based on the total number of days elapsed in the calendar year as of Executive’s Date of Termination;

(iii) fifty percent (50%) of the unvested Equity Awards held by the Executive as of the Date of Termination will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto; and

 

4


(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the twelve-month anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under Section 4980B of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”) and the regulations thereunder (“COBRA”), the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, coverage under its group health plan (if any) at the same coverage levels in effect on the Date of Termination (“Benefits Coverage”); provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal taxable monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(d) Severance Payments upon Involuntary Termination During a Change in Control Period. If, during a Change in Control Period, Executive’s employment is terminated due to an Involuntary Termination, the Company shall provide the following payments and benefits:

(i) the Accrued Obligations;

(ii) an amount in cash equal to (A) eighteen months of Executive’s Annual Base Salary plus (B) one percent (100%) of Executive’s Target Bonus for the calendar year in which such Involuntary Termination occurs (for the avoidance of doubt, if (x) Executive incurred an Involuntary Termination prior to a Change in Control that qualifies Executive for severance payments under Section 6(c)(ii); and (y) a Change in Control occurs within the three (3)-month period following Executive’s Involuntary Termination that qualifies Executive for the increased benefits under this Section 6(d)(ii), then Executive shall be entitled to a lump-sum payment of the amount calculated under this Section 6.2(d)(ii), less any amount already paid under Section 6(c)(ii);

(iii) one hundred percent (100%) of all unvested Equity Awards held by Executive as of the Date of Termination, will become fully vested and, if applicable, exercisable, and all restrictions and rights of repurchase thereon shall lapse with respect to all of the shares of the Company’s common stock subject thereto effective on the later of (x) the Date of Termination or (y) the date of the Change in Control (for the avoidance of doubt, if Executive’s Involuntary Termination occurs prior to a Change in Control, then any unvested portion of Executive’s outstanding Equity Awards will remain outstanding for three (3) months or the occurrence of a Change in Control (whichever is earlier) so that any vesting acceleration benefits provided under this clause (iii) can be provided if a Change in Control occurs within three (3) months following such termination (provided that in no event will the Equity Awards remain outstanding beyond the Equity Award’s maximum term or expiration date. In such case, if no Change in Control occurs

 

5


within three (3) months following Executive’s termination, any unvested portion of Executive’s Equity Awards automatically will be forfeited without having vested; and

(iv) during the period commencing on the Date of Termination and ending on the first anniversary thereof or, if earlier, the date on which Executive becomes eligible for comparable replacement coverage under a subsequent employer’s group health plan, subject to Executive’s valid election to continue healthcare coverage under COBRA, the Company shall, in its sole discretion, either (A) continue to provide to Executive and Executive’s dependents, at the Company’s sole expense, or (B) reimburse Executive and Executive’s dependents for the cost of, in either case, the Benefits Coverage; provided, however, that if (1) any plan pursuant to which such benefits are provided is not, or ceases prior to the expiration of the continuation coverage period to be, exempt from the application of Section 409A under Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-1(a)(5), (2) the Company is otherwise unable to continue to cover Executive or Executive’s dependents under its group health plans or (3) the Company cannot provide the benefit without violating applicable law (including, without limitation, Section 2716 of the Public Health Service Act), then, in any such case, the cash amount necessary to maintain the Benefits Coverage shall thereafter be paid to Executive in substantially equal taxable monthly installments over the COBRA continuation period (or remaining portion thereof).

(e) No Other Severance. The provisions of this Section 6 shall supersede in their entirety any severance payment provisions in any severance plan, policy, program, or other arrangement maintained by the Company except for such additional benefits otherwise approved by the Board or Compensation Committee of the Board after the date hereof.

(f) No Requirement to Mitigate; Survival. Executive shall not be required to mitigate the amount of any payment provided for under this Agreement by seeking other employment or in any other manner. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, the termination of Executive’s employment shall not impair the rights or obligations of any Party.

7. Release and Payment Timing.

(a) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, any payments or other benefits due under this Agreement under Sections 6(c) and 6(d) as a result of Executive’s termination of employment (other than the Accrued Obligations) are subject to Executive’s execution and delivery of a Release, as follows: (i) the Company shall deliver the Release to Executive within five (5) business days following Executive’s Date of Termination, and the Company’s failure to deliver a Release prior to the expiration of such five (5) business day period shall constitute a waiver of any requirement to execute a Release, (ii) if Executive fails to execute the Release on or prior to the Release Expiration Date (as defined below) or timely revokes Executive’s acceptance of the Release thereafter, Executive shall not be entitled to any payments or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release, and (iii) if the Release does not become effective and irrevocable no later than sixty (60) days following the Date of Termination (such deadline, the “Release Expiration Deadline”) , Executive shall not be entitled to or benefits otherwise conditioned on the Release. For purposes of this Section 7, “Release Expiration Date” shall mean the date that is twenty-one (21) days following the date upon which the Company timely delivers the Release to Executive, or, in the event that Executive’s termination of employment is “in connection with an exit incentive or other employment termination program” (as such phrase is

 

6


defined in the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967), the date that is forty-five (45) days following such delivery date.

(b) Payment Timing. The payments due under Section 6(c)(ii) and 6(d)(ii) of this Agreement as a result of Executive’s termination of employment shall be paid in a lump sum on the date that is sixty (60) days following the Date of Termination; provided, however, that in the event of Executive’s Involuntary Termination during the Change in Control Period but prior to a Change in Control, any additional amount payable to Executive under Section 6(d)(ii) in excess of the amounts payable to such Executive under Section 6(c)(ii) shall be paid in a lump sum on the date that is sixty (60) days following the later of (x) the Date of Termination, or (y) the date of the Change in Control.

8. Non-Solicitation of Employees. For a period of one (1) year following Executive’s Date of Termination, Executive shall not, either directly or indirectly (a) solicit for employment through any individual, corporation, firm, or other business, any employees, consultants, independent contractors, or other service providers of the Company or any of its affiliates, or (b) solicit any employee, consultant or other service provider of the Company or any of its affiliates to leave the employment or consulting of or cease providing services to the Company or any of its affiliates; provided, however, that the foregoing clauses (a) and (b) shall not apply to inbound inquiries or any general advertisement or solicitation (or any hiring pursuant to such advertisement or solicitation) that is not specifically targeted to such employees, consultants or other service providers.

9. Golden Parachute Excise Tax.

(a) Best Pay. Any provision of this Agreement to the contrary notwithstanding, if any payment or benefit Executive would receive from the Company pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise (“Payment”) would (i) constitute a “parachute payment” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code and (ii) but for this sentence, be subject to the excise tax imposed by Section 4999 of the Code (the “Excise Tax”), then such Payment will be equal to the Reduced Amount (as defined below). The “Reduced Amount” will be either (A) the largest portion of the Payment that would result in no portion of the Payment (after reduction) being subject to the Excise Tax or (B) the entire Payment, whichever amount after taking into account all applicable federal, state, and local employment taxes, income taxes, and the Excise Tax (all computed at the highest applicable marginal rate, net of the maximum reduction in federal income taxes which could be obtained from a deduction of such state and local taxes), results in Executive’ s receipt, on an after-tax basis, of the greater economic benefit notwithstanding that all or some portion of the Payment may be subject to the Excise Tax. If a reduction in a Payment is required pursuant to the preceding sentence and the Reduced Amount is determined pursuant to clause (A) of the preceding sentence, the reduction shall occur in the manner (the “Reduction Method”) that results in the greatest economic benefit for Executive. If more than one method of reduction will result in the same economic benefit, the items so reduced will be reduced pro rata (the “Pro Rata Reduction Method”). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Reduction Method or the Pro Rata Reduction Method would result in any portion of the Payment being subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A (as defined below) that would not otherwise be subject to taxes pursuant to Section 409A, then the Reduction Method and/or the Pro Rata Reduction Method, as the case may be, shall be modified so as to avoid the imposition of taxes pursuant to Section 409A as follows: (1) as a first priority,

 

7


the modification shall preserve to the greatest extent possible, the greatest economic benefit for Executive as determined on an after-tax basis; (2) as a second priority, Payments that are contingent on future events (e.g., being terminated without cause), shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not contingent on future events; and (3) as a third priority, Payments that are “deferred compensation” within the meaning of Section 409A shall be reduced (or eliminated) before Payments that are not deferred compensation within the meaning of Section 409A.

(b) Accounting Firm. All determinations regarding the application of this Section 9 shall be made by an independent accounting firm or consulting group with nationally recognized standing and substantial expertise and experience in performing calculations regarding the applicability of Section 280G of the Code and the Excise Tax retained by the Company prior to the date of the applicable change in ownership or control (the “280G Firm”).. The Company will bear all expenses with respect to the determinations by the 280G Firm required to be made hereunder. The 280G Firm engaged to make the determinations hereunder will provide its calculations, together with detailed supporting documentation, to the Company within thirty (30) days before the consummation of a Change in Control (if requested at that time by the Company) or such other time as requested by the Company. If the 280G Firm determines that no Excise Tax is payable with respect to a Payment, either before or after the application of the Reduced Amount, it will furnish the Company with documentation reasonably acceptable to the Company that no Excise Tax will be imposed with respect to such Payment. Any good faith determinations of the 280G Firm made hereunder will be final, binding and conclusive upon the Company and Executive.

10. Section 409A.

(a) General. The intent of the Parties is that the payments and benefits under this Agreement comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code and the Department of Treasury regulations and other interpretive guidance issued thereunder, including without limitation any such regulations or other guidance that may be issued after the Effective Date, (“Section 409A”) and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this Agreement shall be interpreted to be in compliance therewith. If Executive notifies the Company that Executive has received advice of tax counsel of a national reputation with expertise in Section 409A that any provision of this Agreement would cause Executive to incur any additional tax or interest under Section 409A (with specificity as to the reason therefor) or the Company independently makes such determination, the Company and Executive shall take commercially reasonable efforts to reform such provision to try to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A through good faith modifications to the minimum extent reasonably appropriate to conform with Section 409A, provided that any such modifications shall not increase the cost or liability to the Company. To the extent that any provision hereof is modified in order to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A, such modification shall be made in good faith and shall, to the maximum extent reasonably possible, maintain the original intent and economic benefit to Executive and the Company of the applicable provision without violating the provisions of Section 409A.

(b) Separation from Service. Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this Agreement: (i) no amount that constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A shall be payable pursuant to Section 6(c) or Section 6(d) above unless the termination of Executive’s employment constitutes a “separation from service” within the meaning of Section 1.409A-1(h) of

 

8


the Department of Treasury Regulations (“Separation from Service”); (ii) for purposes of Section 409A, Executive’s right to receive installment payments shall be treated as a right to receive a series of separate and distinct payments; and (iii) to the extent that any reimbursement of expenses or in-kind benefits constitutes “deferred compensation” under Section 409A, such reimbursement or benefit shall be provided no later than December 31st of the year following the year in which the expense was incurred. The amount of expenses reimbursed in one year shall not affect the amount eligible for reimbursement in any subsequent year. The amount of any in-kind benefits provided in one year shall not affect the amount of in-kind benefits provided in any other year.

(c) Specified Employee. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, if Executive is deemed by the Company at the time of Executive’s Separation from Service to be a “specified employee” for purposes of Section 409A, to the extent delayed commencement of any portion of the benefits to which Executive is entitled under this Agreement is required in order to avoid a prohibited distribution under Section 409A, such portion of Executive’s benefits shall not be provided to Executive prior to the earlier of (i) the expiration of the six (6)-month period measured from the date of Executive’s Separation from Service with the Company or (ii) the date of Executive’s death. Upon the first business day following the expiration of the applicable Section 409A period, all payments deferred pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be paid in a lump sum to Executive (or Executive’s estate or beneficiaries), and any remaining payments due to Executive under this Agreement shall be paid as otherwise provided herein.

11. Withholding. The Company shall be entitled to withhold from any amounts payable under this Agreement any federal, state, local, or foreign withholding or other taxes or charges which the Company is required to withhold. The Company shall be entitled to rely on an opinion of counsel if any questions as to the amount or requirement of withholding shall arise.

12. Miscellaneous Provisions.

(a) Prior Employment. Executive represents and warrants that Executive’s acceptance of employment with the Company has not breached, and the performance of Executive’s duties hereunder will not breach, any duty owed by Executive to any prior employer or other person. Executive further represents and warrants to the Company that: (a) the performance of Executive’s obligations hereunder will not violate any agreement between Executive and any other person, firm, organization, or other entity; (b) Executive is not bound by the terms of any agreement with any previous employer or other party to refrain from competing, directly or indirectly, with the business of such previous employer or other party that would be violated by Executive entering into this Agreement and/or providing services to the Company pursuant to the terms of this Agreement; and (c) Executive’s performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement will not require Executive to, and Executive shall not, rely on in the performance of Executive’s duties or disclose to the Company or any other person or entity or induce the Company in any way to use or rely on any trade secret or other confidential or proprietary information or material belonging to any previous employer of Executive.

(b) Assignment and Successors. The Company shall assign its rights and obligations under this Agreement to any successor to all or substantially all of the business or the assets of the Company (by merger or otherwise). This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure

 

9


to the benefit of the Company, Executive, and their respective successors, assigns, personnel, and legal representatives, executors, administrators, heirs, distributees, devisees, and legatees, as applicable. None of Executive’s rights or obligations may be assigned or transferred by Executive, other than Executive’s rights to payments hereunder, which may be transferred only by will, operation of law, or as otherwise provided herein.

(c) Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed, construed, interpreted, and enforced in accordance with its express terms, and otherwise in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of California, without giving effect to any principles of conflicts of law, whether of the State of California or any other jurisdiction, and where applicable, the laws of the United States, that would result in the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction.

(d) Validity. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not affect the validity or enforceability of any other provision of this Agreement, which shall remain in full force and effect.

(e) Amendments; Waivers. This Agreement may not be modified, amended, or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by Executive and a duly authorized representative of the Company. By an instrument in writing similarly executed, Executive or a duly authorized officer of the Company, as applicable, may waive compliance by the other Party with any specifically identified provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is obligated to comply with or perform; provided, however, that such waiver shall not operate as a waiver of, or estoppel with respect to, any other or subsequent failure. No failure to exercise and no delay in exercising any right, remedy, or power hereunder shall preclude any other or further exercise of any other right, remedy, or power provided herein or by law or in equity.

(f) Dispute Resolution. Unless otherwise prohibited by law or specified below, all disputes, claims and causes of action, in law or equity, arising from or relating to this Agreement or its enforcement, performance, breach, or interpretation shall be resolved solely and exclusively by final and binding arbitration held in San Diego, California, before a single, mutually-agreed neutral arbitrator, through Judicial Arbitration & Mediation Services (“JAMS”) under the then existing JAMS arbitration rules. The rules may be found online at www.jamsadr.com or upon written request to the Company. This Section 12(f) is intended to be the exclusive method for resolving any and all claims by the Parties against each other relating to Executive’s employment; provided that Executive will retain the right to file administrative charges with or seek relief through any government agency of competent jurisdiction, and to participate in any government investigation, including but not limited to (i) claims for workers’ compensation, state disability insurance or unemployment insurance; (ii) claims for unpaid wages or waiting time penalties brought before the California Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (provided that any appeal from an award or from denial of an award of wages and/or waiting time penalties shall be arbitrated pursuant to the terms of this paragraph); and (iii) claims for administrative relief from the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and/or the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (or any similar agency in any applicable jurisdiction other than California); provided, further, that, except as otherwise provided by law, Executive will not be entitled to obtain any monetary relief through such agencies other than workers’ compensation benefits or unemployment insurance benefits. Further, nothing in this Section 12(f) is intended to prevent either Party from obtaining injunctive relief in court to prevent irreparable harm pending

 

10


the conclusion of any such arbitration, including without limitation injunctive relief, in any court of competent jurisdiction pursuant to California Code of Civil Procedure §1281.8 or any similar statute of an applicable jurisdiction. Seeking any such relief shall not be deemed to be a waiver of such Party’s right to compel arbitration. In resolving any matter submitted to arbitration, the arbitrator will strictly follow the substantive law applicable to the dispute, claim or controversy and the arbitrator’s authority and jurisdiction will be limited to determining the dispute in conformity with applicable law as to liability, damages and remedies, to the same extent as if the dispute was determined by a court without a jury. The arbitrator will issue a written decision that contains the essential findings of fact and conclusions of law on which the decision is based, which may be entered as a judgment in any court of competent jurisdiction. The Company shall pay all costs of arbitration, including without limitation, arbitration administrative fees, arbitrator compensation and expenses, and costs of any witnesses called by the arbitrator. Unless otherwise ordered by the arbitrator under applicable law, the Company and Executive shall each bear its or his own expenses, such as attorneys’ fees, costs and disbursements. The prevailing party in any arbitration or other dispute between the parties will be entitled to an award of attorneys’ fees and costs, in addition to any other relief. Each Party warrants that it has had the opportunity to be represented by counsel in the negotiation and execution of this Agreement, including the attorneys’ fees provision herein. Both Executive and the Company expressly waive his and its right to a jury trial. Executive furthers waives his right to pursue claims against the Company on a class basis; provided, however, that Executive does not waive his right, to the extent preserved by law, to pursue representative claims against the Company under the California Private Attorney General Act.

(g) Enforcement. If any provision of this Agreement is held to be illegal, invalid, or unenforceable under present or future laws, such provision shall be fully severable; this Agreement shall be construed and enforced as if such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision had never comprised a portion of this Agreement; and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision or by its severance from this Agreement. Furthermore, in lieu of such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision there shall be added automatically as part of this Agreement a provision as similar in terms to such illegal, invalid, or unenforceable provision as may be possible and be legal, valid, and enforceable.

(h) Entire Agreement. The terms of this Agreement are intended by the Parties to be the final expression of their agreement with respect to the employment of Executive by the Company and supersede all prior understandings and agreements, whether written or oral, regarding Executive’s employment with the Company. The Parties further intend that this Agreement shall constitute the complete and exclusive statement of their terms and that no extrinsic evidence whatsoever may be introduced in any judicial, administrative, or other legal proceeding to vary the terms of this Agreement.

(i) Executive Acknowledgement. Executive acknowledges that Executive has read and understands this Agreement, is fully aware of its legal effect, has not acted in reliance upon any representations or promises made by the Company other than those contained in writing herein, and has entered into this Agreement freely based on Executive’s own judgment.

 

11


(j) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same Agreement. Signatures delivered by facsimile shall be deemed effective for all purposes.

[Signature Page Follows]

 

12


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have duly executed this Agreement as of the date and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.
By:  

/s/ Todd Harris, Ph.D.

Name:   Todd Harris, Ph.D.
Title:   Chief Executive Officer
EXECUTIVE
By:  

/s/ Piyush Patel, Ph.D.

Name:   Piyush Patel, Ph.D.

 

[Signature Page to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement]


APPENDIX I

DEFINITIONS

All defined terms used in this Appendix I that are not otherwise defined in this Appendix I shall have the meaning ascribed to such terms in the Employment Agreement to which this Appendix I relates.

Cause” shall mean the occurrence of any one or more of the following events or conditions:

(i) any material failure on the part of Executive (other than by reason of Disability of Executive) to faithfully and professionally carry out Executive’s duties which failure continues for ten (10) days after written notice detailing such failure is delivered to Executive by the Company;

(ii) Executive’s dishonesty or other misconduct, if such dishonesty or other misconduct is intended to or likely to materially injure the business or reputation of the Company;

(iii) Executive’s conviction or no contest plea to any misdemeanor involving dishonesty, theft, fraud or moral turpitude, or any felony.

(iv) Executive’s insobriety or illegal use of drugs, chemicals or controlled substances either (A) in the course of performing Executive’s duties and responsibilities under this Agreement or (B) otherwise materially affecting the ability of Executive to perform the same;

(v) Executive’s material breach of any written agreement with the Company or any of its affiliates or material violation of the Company’s Code of Conduct or any other material written policy of the Company; or

(vi) Any wanton or willful dereliction of duties by Executive.

Change in Control” shall have the meaning given to such term in the Company’s 2021 Incentive Award Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a Change in Control constitutes a payment event with respect to any amount hereunder that provides for the deferral of compensation that is subject to Section 409A, to the extent required to avoid the imposition of additional taxes under Section 409A, the transaction or event shall only constitute a Change in Control for purposes of the payment timing of such amount if such transaction also constitutes a “change in control event,” as defined in Treasury Regulation Section 1.409A-3(i)(5).

Change in Control Period” shall mean the period commencing three (3) months prior to a Change in Control and ending on the eighteen (18)-month anniversary of the Change in Control.

Disability” shall mean permanent and total disability within the meaning of Section 22(e) of the Code.

Good Reason” shall mean any one of the following: (i) the material reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary (other than as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all


other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in Executive’s Annual Base Salary); (ii) a material reduction of Executive’s duties and responsibilities from those in effect on the Effective Date; (iii) the Company’s material breach of this Agreement (other than a reduction of Executive’s Annual Base Salary as part of a reduction in the base salaries of all or substantially all other similarly situated employees of the Company that is in the same proportion as the reduction in Executive’s Annual Base Salary); or (iv) the permanent, non-voluntary relocation of Executive’s principal place of employment that increases Executive’s one-way commute by more than thirty-five (35) miles, provided, that, in each case, Executive will not be deemed to have Good Reason unless (A) Executive first provides the Board with written notice of the condition giving rise to Good Reason within thirty (30)days of its initial occurrence, (B)the Company or the successor company fails to cure such condition within ten (10)days after receiving such written notice (the “Cure Period”), and (C)Executive’s resignation based on such Good Reason is effective within thirty (30)days after the expiration of the Cure Period.

Involuntary Termination” shall mean Executive’s termination (A) by the Company without Cause, (B) by Executive for Good Reason, (C) due to death or (D) due to Disability.

Person” shall mean any individual, corporation, limited liability corporation, partnership, or other business entity.

EX-10.19

Exhibit 10.19

 

LOGO

STANDARD INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL MULTI-TENANT LEASE - NET

 

1.

Basic Provisions (“Basic Provisions”).

1.1    Parties. This Lease (“Lease”), dated for reference purposes only August 5, 2020, is made by and between Fabric 2656 State, LLC, a California limited liability company (“Lessor”) and TYRA Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (“Lessee”), (collectively the “Parties”, or individually a “Party”).

1.2(a)    Premises: That certain real property, including all improvements therein or to be provided by Lessor under the terms of this Lease, commonly known as (street address, unit/suite, city, state): 2656 State Street, Carlsbad, California 92008 (“Premises”). The Premises are located in the County of San Diego, and are generally described as (describe briefly the nature of the Premises and the “Project”): approximately 4,734 square foot single story commercial building on an approximate 8,000 square foot site. In addition to Lessee’s rights to use and occupy the Premises as hereinafter specified, Lessee shall have non-exclusive rights to any utility raceways of the building containing the Premises (“Building”) and to the Common Areas (as defined in Paragraph 2.7 below), but shall not have any rights to the roof, or exterior walls of the Building or to any other buildings in the Project. The Premises, the Building, the Common Areas, the land upon which they are located, along with all other buildings and improvements thereon, are herein collectively referred to as the “Project.” (See also Paragraph 2)

1.2(b)    Parking: 5 offsite (See Addendum) (See also Paragraph 2.6)

1.3    Term: 60 months (“Original Term”) commencing See Addendum (“Commencement Date”) and ending 60 months thereafter (See Addendum) (“Expiration Date”). (See also Paragraph 3)

1.4    Early Possession: If the Premises are available Lessee may have non-exclusive possession of the Premises commencing See Addendum (“Early Possession Date”). (See also Paragraphs 3.2 and 3.3)

1.5    Base Rent: $23,954.04 per month (“Base Rent”), payable on the 1st day of each month commencing See Addendum. (See also Paragraph 4)

☒ If this box is checked, there are provisions in this Lease for the Base Rent to be adjusted. See Paragraph Rent Adjustments (78).

1.6    Lessee’s Share of Common Area Operating Expenses: one hundred percent (100%) (“Lessee’s Share”) which initially totals $0.72 per square foot for a total of $3,408.48 per month In the event that the size of the Premises and/or the Project are modified during the term of this Lease, Lessor shall recalculate Lessee’s Share to reflect such modification.

1.7    Base Rent and Other Monies Paid Upon Execution:

(a)    Base Rent: NA for the period                 .

(b)    Common Area Operating Expenses: NA for the period                 .

(c)    Security Deposit: $21,303.00 (“Security Deposit”). (See also Paragraph 5)

(d)    Other:                  for                 .

(e)    Total Due Upon Execution of this Lease: $21,303.00.

1.8    Agreed Use: office with an accessory research lab (See Addendum). (See also Paragraph 6)

1.9    Insuring Party. Lessor is the “Insuring Party”. (See also Paragraph 8)

1.10    Real Estate Brokers. (See Addendum)

 

                

 

                

 

                

1.11    Guarantor. The obligations of the Lessee under this Lease are to be guaranteed by Letter of Credit due upon Execution (See Addendum) (“Guarantor”). (See also Paragraph 37)

1.12    Attachments. Attached hereto are the following, all of which constitute a part of this Lease:

☒ an Addendum consisting of Paragraphs 50 through 86 ;

☒ a site plan depicting the Premises; See Addendum

☒ a site plan depicting the Project; See Addendum

☐ a current set of the Rules and Regulations for the Project;

☐ a current set of the Rules and Regulations adopted by the owners’ association;

☒ a Work Letter; See Addendum

☒ other (specify): Rent Adjustments (87) Option to Extend (88) and Letter of Credit.

 

2.

Premises.

2.1    Letting. Lessor hereby leases to Lessee, and Lessee hereby leases from Lessor, the Premises, for the term, at the rental, and upon all of the terms, covenants and conditions set forth in this Lease. While the approximate square footage of the Premises may have been used in the marketing of the Premises for purposes of comparison, the Base Rent stated herein is NOT tied to square footage and is not subject to adjustment should the actual size be determined to be different. NOTE: Lessee is advised to verify the actual size prior to executing this Lease.

 

LOGO      Page 1 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


2.2    Condition. Lessor shall deliver that portion of the Premises contained within the Building (“Unit”) to Lessee broom clean and free of debris on the Commencement Date or the Early Possession Date, whichever first occurs (“Start Date”), and, so long as the required service contracts described in Paragraph 7.1(b) below are obtained by Lessee and in effect within thirty days following the Start Date, warrants that the existing electrical, plumbing, fire sprinkler, lighting, heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems (“HVAC”), loading doors, sump pumps, if any, and all other such elements in the Unit, other than those constructed by Lessee, shall be in good operating condition on said date, that the structural elements of the roof, bearing walls and foundation of the Unit shall be free of material defects, and that the Unit does not contain hazardous levels of any mold or fungi defined as toxic under applicable state or federal law. If a non-compliance with such warranty exists as of the Start Date, or if one of such systems or elements should malfunction or fail within the appropriate warranty period, Lessor shall, as Lessor’s sole obligation with respect to such matter, except as otherwise provided in this Lease, promptly after receipt of written notice from Lessee setting forth with specificity the nature and extent of such non-compliance, malfunction or failure, rectify same at Lessor’s expense. The warranty periods shall be as follows: (i) 6 months as to the HVAC systems, and (ii) 30 days as to the remaining systems and other elements of the Unit. If Lessee does not give Lessor the required notice within the appropriate warranty period, correction of any such non-compliance, malfunction or failure shall be the obligation of Lessee at Lessee’s sole cost and expense (except for the repairs to the fire sprinkler systems, roof, foundations, and/or bearing walls - see Paragraph 7). Lessor also warrants, that unless otherwise specified in writing, Lessor is unaware of (i) any recorded Notices of Default affecting the Premise; (ii) any delinquent amounts due under any loan secured by the Premises; and (iii) any bankruptcy proceeding affecting the Premises.

2.3    Compliance. Lessor warrants that to the best of its knowledge the improvements on the Premises comply with the building codes, applicable laws, covenants or restrictions of record, regulations, and ordinances (“Applicable Requirements”) that were in effect at the time that each improvement, or portion thereof, was constructed. Said warranty does not apply to the use to which Lessee will put the Premises, modifications which may be required by the Americans with Disabilities Act or any similar laws as a result of Lessee’s use (see Paragraph 49), or to any Alterations or Utility Installations (as defined in Paragraph 7.3(a)) made or to be made by Lessee. NOTE: Lessee is responsible for determining whether or not the Applicable Requirements, and especially the zoning are appropriate for Lessee’s intended use, and acknowledges that past uses of the Premises may no longer be allowed. If the Premises do not comply with said warranty, Lessor shall, except as otherwise provided, promptly after receipt of written notice from Lessee setting forth with specificity the nature and extent of such non-compliance, rectify the same at Lessor’s expense. If Lessee does not give Lessor written notice of a non-compliance with this warranty within 6 months following the Start Date, correction of that non-compliance shall be the obligation of Lessee at Lessee’s sole cost and expense. If the Applicable Requirements are hereafter changed so as to require during the term of this Lease the construction of an addition to or an alteration of the Unit, Premises and/or Building, the remediation of any Hazardous Substance, or the reinforcement or other physical modification of the Unit, Premises and/or Building (“Capital Expenditure”), Lessor and Lessee shall allocate the cost of such work as follows:

(a)    Subject to Paragraph 2.3(c) below, if such Capital Expenditures are required as a result of the specific and unique use of the Premises by Lessee as compared with uses by tenants in general, Lessee shall be fully responsible for the cost thereof, provided, however, that if such Capital Expenditure is required during the last 2 years of this Lease and the cost thereof exceeds 6 months’ Base Rent, Lessee may instead terminate this Lease unless Lessor notifies Lessee, in writing, within 10 days after receipt of Lessee’s termination notice that Lessor has elected to pay the difference between the actual cost thereof and the amount equal to 6 months’ Base Rent. If Lessee elects termination, Lessee shall immediately cease the use of the Premises which requires such Capital Expenditure and deliver to Lessor written notice specifying a termination date at least 90 days thereafter. Such termination date shall, however, in no event be earlier than the last day that Lessee could legally utilize the Premises without commencing such Capital Expenditure.

(b)    If such Capital Expenditure is not the result of the specific and unique use of the Premises by Lessee (such as, governmentally mandated seismic modifications), then Lessor shall pay for such Capital Expenditure and Lessee shall only be obligated to pay, each month during the remainder of the term of this Lease or any extension thereof, on the date that on which the Base Rent is due, an amount equal to 1/144th of the portion of such costs reasonably attributable to the Premises. Lessee shall pay Interest on the balance but may prepay its obligation at any time. If, however, such Capital Expenditure is required during the last 2 years of this Lease or if Lessor reasonably determines that it is not economically feasible to pay its share thereof, Lessor shall have the option to terminate this Lease upon 90 days prior written notice to Lessee unless Lessee notifies Lessor, in writing, within 10 days after receipt of Lessor’s termination notice that Lessee will pay for such Capital Expenditure. If Lessor does not elect to terminate, and fails to tender its share of any such Capital Expenditure, Lessee may advance such funds and deduct same, with Interest, from Rent until Lessor’s share of such costs have been fully paid. If Lessee is unable to finance Lessor’s share, or if the balance of the Rent due and payable for the remainder of this Lease is not sufficient to fully reimburse Lessee on an offset basis, Lessee shall have the right to terminate this Lease upon 30 days written notice to Lessor.

(c)    Notwithstanding the above, the provisions concerning Capital Expenditures are intended to apply only to non-voluntary, unexpected, and new Applicable Requirements. If the Capital Expenditures are instead triggered by Lessee as a result of an actual or proposed change in use, change in intensity of use, or modification to the Premises then, and in that event, Lessee shall either: (i) immediately cease such changed use or intensity of use and/or take such other steps as may be necessary to eliminate the requirement for such Capital Expenditure, or (ii) complete such Capital Expenditure at its own expense. Lessee shall not have any right to terminate this Lease.

2.4    Acknowledgements. Lessee acknowledges that: (a) it has been given an opportunity to inspect and measure the Premises, (b) it has been advised by Lessor and/or Brokers to satisfy itself with respect to the size and condition of the Premises (including but not limited to the electrical, HVAC and fire sprinkler systems, security, environmental aspects, and compliance with Applicable Requirements and the Americans with Disabilities Act), and their suitability for Lessee’s intended use, (c) Lessee has made such investigation as it deems necessary with reference to such matters and assumes all responsibility therefor as the same relate to its occupancy of the Premises, (d) it is not relying on any representation as to the size of the Premises made by Brokers or Lessor, (e) the square footage of the Premises was not material to Lessee’s decision to lease the Premises and pay the Rent stated herein, and (f) neither Lessor, Lessor’s agents, nor Brokers have made any oral or written representations or warranties with respect to said matters other than as set forth in this Lease. In addition, Lessor acknowledges that: (i) Brokers have made no representations, promises or warranties concerning Lessee’s ability to honor the Lease or suitability to occupy the Premises, and (ii) it is Lessor’s sole responsibility to investigate the financial capability and/or suitability of all proposed tenants.

2.5    Lessee as Prior Owner/Occupant. The warranties made by Lessor in Paragraph 2 shall be of no force or effect if immediately prior to the Start Date Lessee was the owner or occupant of the Premises. In such event, Lessee shall be responsible for any necessary corrective work.

2.6    Vehicle Parking. Lessee shall be entitled to use the number of Parking Spaces specified in Paragraph 1.2(b) on those portions of the Common Areas designated from time to time by Lessor for parking. Lessee shall not use more parking spaces than said number. Said parking spaces shall be used for parking by vehicles no larger than full-size passenger automobiles or pick-up trucks, herein called “Permitted Size Vehicles.” Lessor may regulate the loading and unloading of vehicles by adopting Rules and Regulations as provided in Paragraph 2.9. No vehicles other than Permitted Size Vehicles may be parked in the Common Area without the prior written permission of Lessor. In addition:

(a)    Lessee shall not permit or allow any vehicles that belong to or are controlled by Lessee or Lessee’s employees, suppliers, shippers, customers, contractors or invitees to be loaded, unloaded, or parked in areas other than those designated by Lessor for such activities.

 

LOGO      Page 2 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


(b)    Lessee shall not service or store any vehicles in the Common Areas.

(c)    If Lessee permits or allows any of the prohibited activities described in this Paragraph 2.6, then Lessor shall have the right, without notice, in addition to such other rights and remedies that it may have, to remove or tow away the vehicle involved and charge the cost to Lessee, which cost shall be immediately payable upon demand by Lessor.

2.7    Common Areas - Definition. The term “Common Areas” is defined as all areas and facilities outside the Premises and within the exterior boundary line of the Project and interior utility raceways and installations within the Unit that are provided and designated by the Lessor from time to time for the general non-exclusive use of Lessor, Lessee and other tenants of the Project and their respective employees, suppliers, shippers, customers, contractors and invitees, including parking areas, loading and unloading areas, trash areas, roofs, roadways, walkways, driveways and landscaped areas.

2.8    Common Areas - Lessee’s Rights. Lessor grants to Lessee, for the benefit of Lessee and its employees, suppliers, shippers, contractors, customers and invitees, during the term of this Lease, the non-exclusive right to use, in common with others entitled to such use, the Common Areas as they exist from time to time, subject to any rights, powers, and privileges reserved by Lessor under the terms hereof or under the terms of any rules and regulations or restrictions governing the use of the Project. Under no circumstances shall the right herein granted to use the Common Areas be deemed to include the right to store any property, temporarily or permanently, in the Common Areas. Any such storage shall be permitted only by the prior written consent of Lessor or Lessor’s designated agent, which consent may be revoked at any time. In the event that any unauthorized storage shall occur, then Lessor shall have the right, without notice, in addition to such other rights and remedies that it may have, to remove the property and charge the cost to Lessee, which cost shall be immediately payable upon demand by Lessor.

2.9    Common Areas - Rules and Regulations. Lessor or such other person(s) as Lessor may appoint shall have the exclusive control and management of the Common Areas and shall have the right, from time to time, to establish, modify, amend and enforce reasonable rules and regulations (“Rules and Regulations”) for the management, safety, care, and cleanliness of the grounds, the parking and unloading of vehicles and the preservation of good order, as well as for the convenience of other occupants or tenants of the Building and the Project and their invitees. Lessee agrees to abide by and conform to all such Rules and Regulations, and shall use its best efforts to cause its employees, suppliers, shippers, customers, contractors and invitees to so abide and conform. Lessor shall not be responsible to Lessee for the non-compliance with said Rules and Regulations by other tenants of the Project.

2.10    Common Areas - Changes. Lessor shall have the right, in Lessor’s sole discretion, from time to time:

(a)    To make changes to the Common Areas, including, without limitation, changes in the location, size, shape and number of driveways, entrances, parking spaces, parking areas, loading and unloading areas, ingress, egress, direction of traffic, landscaped areas, walkways and utility raceways;

(b)    To close temporarily any of the Common Areas for maintenance purposes so long as reasonable access to the Premises remains available;

(c)    To designate other land outside the boundaries of the Project to be a part of the Common Areas;

(d)    To add additional buildings and improvements to the Common Areas;

(e)    To use the Common Areas while engaged in making additional improvements, repairs or alterations to the Project, or any portion thereof; and

(f)    To do and perform such other acts and make such other changes in, to or with respect to the Common Areas and Project as Lessor may, in the exercise of sound business judgment, deem to be appropriate.

 

3.

Term.

3.1    Term. The Commencement Date, Expiration Date and Original Term of this Lease are as specified in Paragraph 1.3.

3.2    Early Possession. Any provision herein granting Lessee Early Possession of the Premises is subject to and conditioned upon the Premises being available for such possession prior to the Commencement Date. Any grant of Early Possession only conveys a non-exclusive right to occupy the Premises. If Lessee totally or partially occupies the Premises prior to the Commencement Date, the obligation to pay Base Rent shall be abated for the period of such Early Possession. All other terms of this Lease (including but not limited to the obligations to pay Lessee’s Share of Common Area Operating Expenses, Real Property Taxes and insurance premiums and to maintain the Premises) shall be in effect during such period. Any such Early Possession shall not affect the Expiration Date.

3.3    Delay In Possession. Lessor agrees to use its best commercially reasonable efforts to deliver possession of the Premises to Lessee by the Commencement Date. If, despite said efforts, Lessor is unable to deliver possession by such date, Lessor shall not be subject to any liability therefor, nor shall such failure affect the validity of this Lease or change the Expiration Date. Lessee shall not, however, be obligated to pay Rent or perform its other obligations until Lessor delivers possession of the Premises and any period of rent abatement that Lessee would otherwise have enjoyed shall run from the date of delivery of possession and continue for a period equal to what Lessee would otherwise have enjoyed under the terms hereof, but minus any days of delay caused by the acts or omissions of Lessee. If possession is not delivered within 60 days after the Commencement Date, as the same may be extended under the terms of any Work Letter executed by Parties, Lessee may, at its option, by notice in writing within 10 days after the end of such 60 day period, cancel this Lease, in which event the Parties shall be discharged from all obligations hereunder. If such written notice is not received by Lessor within said 10 day period, Lessee’s right to cancel shall terminate. If possession of the Premises is not delivered within 120 days after the Commencement Date, this Lease shall terminate unless other agreements are reached between Lessor and Lessee, in writing.

3.4    Lessee Compliance. Lessor shall not be required to tender possession of the Premises to Lessee until Lessee complies with its obligation to provide evidence of insurance (Paragraph 8.5). Pending delivery of such evidence, Lessee shall be required to perform all of its obligations under this Lease from and after the Start Date, including the payment of Rent, notwithstanding Lessor’s election to withhold possession pending receipt of such evidence of insurance. Further, if Lessee is required to perform any other conditions prior to or concurrent with the Start Date, the Start Date shall occur but Lessor may elect to withhold possession until such conditions are satisfied.

 

4.

Rent.

4.1.    Rent Defined. All monetary obligations of Lessee to Lessor under the terms of this Lease (except for the Security Deposit) are deemed to be rent (“Rent”).

4.2    Common Area Operating Expenses. Lessee shall pay to Lessor during the term hereof, in addition to the Base Rent, Lessee’s Share (as specified in Paragraph 1.6) of all Common Area Operating Expenses, as hereinafter defined, during each calendar year of the term of this Lease, in accordance with the following provisions:

(a)    “Common Area Operating Expenses” are defined, for purposes of this Lease, as all costs relating to the ownership and operation of the Project, including, but not limited to, the following:

(i)    The operation, repair and maintenance, in neat, clean, good order and condition , and if necessary the replacement, of the following:

(aa)    The Common Areas and Common Area improvements, including parking areas, loading and unloading areas, trash areas, roadways, parkways, walkways, driveways, landscaped areas, bumpers, irrigation systems, Common Area lighting facilities, fences and gates, elevators, roofs, exterior walls of the buildings, building systems and roof drainage systems.

(bb)    Exterior signs and any tenant directories.

(cc)    Any fire sprinkler systems.

(dd)    All other areas and improvements that are within the exterior boundaries of the Project but outside of the Premises and/or any other space occupied by a tenant.

 

LOGO      Page 3 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


(ii)    The cost of water, gas, electricity and telephone to service the Common Areas and any utilities not separately metered.

(iii)    The cost of trash disposal, pest control services, property management, security services, owners’ association dues and fees, the cost to repaint the exterior of any structures and the cost of any environmental inspections.

(iv)    Reserves set aside for maintenance, repair and/or replacement of Common Area improvements and equipment.

(v)    Real Property Taxes (as defined in Paragraph 10).

(vi)    The cost of the premiums for the insurance maintained by Lessor pursuant to Paragraph 8.

(vii)    Any deductible portion of an insured loss concerning the Building or the Common Areas.

(viii)    Auditors’, accountants’ and attorneys’ fees and costs related to the operation, maintenance, repair and replacement of the Project.

(ix)    The cost of any capital improvement to the Building or the Project not covered under the provisions of Paragraph 2.3 provided; however, that Lessor shall allocate the cost of any such capital improvement over a 12 year period and Lessee shall not be required to pay more than Lessee’s Share of 1/144th of the cost of such capital improvement in any given month. Lessee shall pay Interest on the unamortized balance but may prepay its obligation at any time.

(x)    The cost of any other services to be provided by Lessor that are stated elsewhere in this Lease to be a Common Area Operating Expense.

(b)    Any Common Area Operating Expenses and Real Property Taxes that are specifically attributable to the Unit, the Building or to any other building in the Project or to the operation, repair and maintenance thereof, shall be allocated entirely to such Unit, Building, or other building. However, any Common Area Operating Expenses and Real Property Taxes that are not specifically attributable to the Building or to any other building or to the operation, repair and maintenance thereof, shall be equitably allocated by Lessor to all buildings in the Project.

(c)    The inclusion of the improvements, facilities and services set forth in Subparagraph 4.2(a) shall not be deemed to impose an obligation upon Lessor to either have said improvements or facilities or to provide those services unless the Project already has the same, Lessor already provides the services, or Lessor has agreed elsewhere in this Lease to provide the same or some of them.

(d)    Lessee’s Share of Common Area Operating Expenses is payable monthly on the same day as the Base Rent is due hereunder. The amount of such payments shall be based on Lessor’s estimate of the annual Common Area Operating Expenses. Within 60 days after written request (but not more than once each year) Lessor shall deliver to Lessee a reasonably detailed statement showing Lessee’s Share of the actual Common Area Operating Expenses for the preceding year. If Lessee’s payments during such year exceed Lessee’s Share, Lessor shall credit the amount of such over-payment against Lessee’s future payments. If Lessee’s payments during such year were less than Lessee’s Share, Lessee shall pay to Lessor the amount of the deficiency within 10 days affer delivery by Lessor to Lessee of the statement.

(e)    Common Area Operating Expenses shall not include any expenses paid by any tenant directly to third parties, or as to which Lessor is otherwise reimbursed by any third party, other tenant, or insurance proceeds.

4.3    Payment. Lessee shall cause payment of Rent to be received by Lessor in lawful money of the United States, without offset or deduction (except as specifically permitted in this Lease), on or before the day on which it is due. All monetary amounts shall be rounded to the nearest whole dollar. In the event that any invoice prepared by Lessor is inaccurate such inaccuracy shall not constitute a waiver and Lessee shall be obligated to pay the amount set forth in this Lease. Rent for any period during the term hereof which is for less than one full calendar month shall be prorated based upon the actual number of days of said month. Payment of Rent shall be made to Lessor at its address stated herein or to such other persons or place as Lessor may from time to time designate in writing. Acceptance of a payment which is less than the amount then due shall not be a waiver of Lessor’s rights to the balance of such Rent, regardless of Lessor’s endorsement of any check so stating. In the event that any check, draff, or other instrument of payment given by Lessee to Lessor is dishonored for any reason, Lessee agrees to pay to Lessor the sum of $25 in addition to any Late Charge and Lessor, at its option, may require all future Rent be paid by cashier’s check. Payments will be applied first to accrued late charges and attorney’s fees, second to accrued interest, then to Base Rent and Common Area Operating Expenses, and any remaining amount to any other outstanding charges or costs.

5.    Security Deposit. Lessee shall deposit with Lessor upon execution hereof the Security Deposit as security for Lessee’s faithful performance of its obligations under this Lease. If Lessee fails to pay Rent, or otherwise Defaults under this Lease, Lessor may use, apply or retain all or any portion of said Security Deposit for the payment of any amount already due Lessor, for Rents which will be due in the future, and/ or to reimburse or compensate Lessor for any liability, expense, loss or damage which Lessor may suffer or incur by reason thereof. If Lessor uses or applies all or any portion of the Security Deposit, Lessee shall within 10 days affer written request therefor deposit monies with Lessor suft cient to restore said Security Deposit to the full amount required by this Lease. If the Base Rent increases during the term of this Lease, Lessee shall, upon written request from Lessor, deposit additional monies with Lessor so that the total amount of the Security Deposit shall at all times bear the same proportion to the increased Base Rent as the initial Security Deposit bore to the initial Base Rent. Should the Agreed Use be amended to accommodate a material change in the business of Lessee or to accommodate a sublessee or assignee, Lessor shall have the right to increase the Security Deposit to the extent necessary, in Lessor’s reasonable judgment, to account for any increased wear and tear that the Premises may suffer as a result thereof. If a change in control of Lessee occurs during this Lease and following such change the financial condition of Lessee is, in Lessor’s reasonable judgment, significantly reduced, Lessee shall deposit such additional monies with Lessor as shall be suft cient to cause the Security Deposit to be at a commercially reasonable level based on such change in financial condition. Lessor shall not be required to keep the Security Deposit separate from its general accounts. Within 90 days after the expiration or termination of this Lease, Lessor shall return that portion of the Security Deposit not used or applied by Lessor. Lessor shall upon written request provide Lessee with an accounting showing how that portion of the Security Deposit that was not returned was applied. No part of the Security Deposit shall be considered to be held in trust, to bear interest or to be prepayment for any monies to be paid by Lessee under this Lease. THE SECURITY DEPOSIT SHALL NOT BE USED BY LESSEE IN LIEU OF PAYMENT OF THE LAST MONTH’S RENT.

 

6.

Use.

6.1    Use. Lessee shall use and occupy the Premises only for the Agreed Use, to, and for no other purpose. Lessee shall not use or permit the use of the Premises in a manner that is unlawful, creates damage, waste or a nuisance, or that disturbs occupants of or causes damage to neighboring premises or properties. Other than guide, signal and seeing eye dogs, Lessee shall not keep or allow in the Premises any pets, animals, birds, fish, or reptiles.

6.2    Hazardous Substances.

(a)    Reportable Uses Require Consent. The term “Hazardous Substance” as used in this Lease shall mean any product, substance, or waste whose presence, use, manufacture, disposal, transportation, or release, either by itself or in combination with other materials expected to be on the Premises, is either: (i) potentially injurious to the public health, safety or welfare, the environment or the Premises, (ii) regulated or monitored by any governmental authority, or (iii) a basis for potential liability of Lessor to any governmental agency or third party under any applicable statute or common law theory. Hazardous Substances shall include, but not be limited to, hydrocarbons, petroleum, gasoline, and/or crude oil or any products, by-products or fractions thereof. Lessee shall not engage in any activity in or

 

LOGO      Page 4 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


on the Premises which constitutes a Reportable Use of Hazardous Substances without the express prior written consent of Lessor and timely compliance (at Lessee’s expense) with all Applicable Requirements. “Reportable Use” shall mean (i) the installation or use of any above or below ground storage tank, (ii) the generation, possession, storage, use, transportation, or disposal of a Hazardous Substance that requires a permit from, or with respect to which a report, notice, registration or business plan is required to be filled with, any governmental authority, and/or (iii) the presence at the Premises of a Hazardous Substance with respect to which any Applicable Requirements requires that a notice be given to persons entering or occupying the Premises or neighboring properties. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessee may use any ordinary and customary materials reasonably required to be used in the normal course of the Agreed Use, ordinary office supplies (copier toner, liquid paper, glue, etc.) and common household cleaning materials, so long as such use is in compliance with all Applicable Requirements, is not a Reportable Use, and does not expose the Premises or neighboring property to any meaningful risk of contamination or damage or expose Lessor to any liability therefor. In addition, Lessor may condition its consent to any Reportable Use upon receiving such additional assurances as Lessor reasonably deems necessary to protect itself, the public, the Premises and/or the environment against damage, contamination, injury and/or liability, including, but not limited to, the installation (and removal on or before Lease expiration or termination) of protective modifications (such as concrete encasements) and/or increasing the Security Deposit.

(b)    Duty to Inform Lessor. If Lessee knows, or has reasonable cause to believe, that a Hazardous Substance has come to be located in, on, under or about the Premises, other than as previously consented to by Lessor, Lessee shall immediately give written notice of such fact to Lessor, and provide Lessor with a copy of any report, notice, claim or other documentation which it has concerning the presence of such Hazardous Substance.

(c)    Lessee Remediation. Lessee shall not cause or permit any Hazardous Substance to be spilled or released in, on, under, or about the Premises (including through the plumbing or sanitary sewer system) and shall promptly, at Lessee’s expense, comply with all Applicable Requirements and take all investigatory and/or remedial action reasonably recommended, whether or not formally ordered or required, for the cleanup of any contamination of, and for the maintenance, security and/or monitoring of the Premises or neighboring properties, that was caused or materially contributed to by Lessee, or pertaining to or involving any Hazardous Substance brought onto the Premises during the term of this Lease, by or for Lessee, or any third party.

(d)    Lessee Indemnification. Lessee shall indemnify, defend and hold Lessor, its agents, employees, lenders and ground lessor, if any, harmless from and against any and all loss of rents and/or damages, liabilities, judgments, claims, expenses, penalties, and attorneys’ and consultants’ fees arising out of or involving any Hazardous Substance brought onto the Premises by or for Lessee, or any third party (provided, however, that Lessee shall have no liability under this Lease with respect to underground migration of any Hazardous Substance under the Premises from areas outside of the Project not caused or contributed to by Lessee). Lessee’s obligations shall include, but not be limited to, the effects of any contamination or injury to person, property or the environment created or suffered by Lessee, and the cost of investigation, removal, remediation, restoration and/or abatement, and shall survive the expiration or termination of this Lease. No termination, cancellation or release agreement entered into by Lessor and Lessee shall release Lessee from its obligations under this Lease with respect to Hazardous Substances, unless specifically so agreed by Lessor in writing at the time of such agreement.

(e)    Lessor Indemnification. Except as otherwise provided in paragraph 8.7, Lessor and its successors and assigns shall indemnify, defend, reimburse and hold Lessee, its employees and lenders, harmless from and against any and all environmental damages, including the cost of remediation, which are suffered as a direct result of Hazardous Substances on the Premises prior to Lessee taking possession or which are caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of Lessor, its agents or employees. Lessor’s obligations, as and when required by the Applicable Requirements, shall include, but not be limited to, the cost of investigation, removal, remediation, restoration and/or abatement, and shall survive the expiration or termination of this Lease.

(f)    Investigations and Remediations. Lessor shall retain the responsibility and pay for any investigations or remediation measures required by governmental entities having jurisdiction with respect to the existence of Hazardous Substances on the Premises prior to the Lessee taking possession, unless such remediation measure is required as a result of Lessee’s use (including “Alterations”, as defined in paragraph 7.3(a) below) of the Premises, in which event Lessee shall be responsible for such payment. Lessee shall cooperate fully in any such activities at the request of Lessor, including allowing Lessor and Lessor’s agents to have reasonable access to the Premises at reasonable times in order to carry out Lessor’s investigative and remedial responsibilities.

(g)    Lessor Termination Option. If a Hazardous Substance Condition (see Paragraph 9.1(e)) occurs during the term of this Lease, unless Lessee is legally responsible therefor (in which case Lessee shall make the investigation and remediation thereof required by the Applicable Requirements and this Lease shall continue in full force and effect, but subject to Lessor’s rights under Paragraph 6.2(d) and Paragraph 13), Lessor may, at Lessor’s option, either (i) investigate and remediate such Hazardous Substance Condition, if required, as soon as reasonably possible at Lessor’s expense, in which event this Lease shall continue in full force and effect, or (ii) if the estimated cost to remediate such condition exceeds 12 times the then monthly Base Rent or $100,000, whichever is greater, give written notice to Lessee, within 30 days after receipt by Lessor of knowledge of the occurrence of such Hazardous Substance Condition, of Lessor’s desire to terminate this Lease as of the date 60 days following the date of such notice. In the event Lessor elects to give a termination notice, Lessee may, within 10 days thereafter, give written notice to Lessor of Lessee’s commitment to pay the amount by which the cost of the remediation of such Hazardous Substance Condition exceeds an amount equal to 12 times the then monthly Base Rent or $100,000, whichever is greater. Lessee shall provide Lessor with said funds or satisfactory assurance thereof within 30 days following such commitment. In such event, this Lease shall continue in full force and effect, and Lessor shall proceed to make such remediation as soon as reasonably possible after the required funds are available. If Lessee does not give such notice and provide the required funds or assurance thereof within the time provided, this Lease shall terminate as of the date specified in Lessor’s notice of termination.

6.3    Lessee’s Compliance with Applicable Requirements. Except as otherwise provided in this Lease, Lessee shall, at Lessee’s sole expense, fully, diligently and in a timely manner, materially comply with all Applicable Requirements, the requirements of any applicable re insurance underwriter or rating bureau, and the recommendations of Lessor’s engineers and/or consultants which relate in any manner to the Premises, without regard to whether said Applicable Requirements are now in effect or become effective after the Start Date. Lessee shall, within 10 days after receipt of Lessor’s written request, provide Lessor with copies of all permits and other documents, and other information evidencing Lessee’s compliance with any Applicable Requirements specified by Lessor, and shall immediately upon receipt, notify Lessor in writing (with copies of any documents involved) of any threatened or actual claim, notice, citation, warning, complaint or report pertaining to or involving the failure of Lessee or the Premises to comply with any Applicable Requirements. Likewise, Lessee shall immediately give written notice to Lessor of: (i) any water damage to the Premises and any suspected seepage, pooling, dampness or other condition conducive to the production of mold; or (ii) any mustiness or other odors that might indicate the presence of mold in the Premises.

6.4    Inspection; Compliance. Lessor and Lessor’s “Lender” (as defined in Paragraph 30) and consultants authorized by Lessor shall have the right to enter into Premises at any time, in the case of an emergency, and otherwise at reasonable times after reasonable notice, for the purpose of inspecting and/or testing the condition of the Premises and/or for verifying compliance by Lessee with this Lease. The cost of any such inspections shall be paid by Lessor, unless a violation of Applicable Requirements, or a Hazardous Substance Condition (see Paragraph 9.1) is found to exist or be imminent, or the inspection is requested or ordered by a governmental authority. In such case, Lessee shall upon request reimburse Lessor for the cost of such inspection, so long as such inspection is reasonably related to the violation or contamination. In addition, Lessee shall provide copies of all relevant material safety data sheets (MSDS) to Lessor within 10 days of the receipt of written request therefor. Lessee acknowledges that any failure on its part to allow such inspections or testing will expose Lessor to risks and potentially cause Lessor to incur costs not contemplated by this Lease, the extent of which will be extremely difficult to ascertain. Accordingly, should the Lessee fail to allow such inspections and/or testing in a timely fashion the Base Rent shall be automatically increased, without any requirement for notice to Lessee, by an amount equal to 10% of the then existing Base Rent or $100, whichever is greater for the remainder to the Lease. The Parties agree that such increase in Base Rent represents fair and reasonable

 

LOGO      Page 5 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


compensation for the additional risk/costs that Lessor will incur by reason of Lessee’s failure to allow such inspection and/or testing. Such increase in Base Rent shall in no event constitute a waiver of Lessee’s Default or Breach with respect to such failure nor prevent the exercise of any of the other rights and remedies granted hereunder.

 

7.

Maintenance; Repairs; Utility Installations; Trade Fixtures and Alterations.

7.1    Lessee’s Obligations.

(a)    In General. Subject to the provisions of Paragraph 2.2 (Condition), 2.3 (Compliance), 6.3 (Lessee’s Compliance with Applicable Requirements), 7.2 (Lessor’s Obligations), 9 (Damage or Destruction), and 14 (Condemnation) Lessee shall, at Lessee’s sole expense, keep the Premises, Utility Installations (intended for Lessee’s exclusive use, no matter where located), and Alterations in good order, condition and repair (whether or not the portion of the Premises requiring repairs, or the means of repairing the same, are reasonably or readily accessible to Lessee, and whether or not the need for such repairs occurs as a result of Lessee’s use, any prior use, the elements or the age of such portion of the Premises), including, but not limited to, all equipment or facilities, such as plumbing, HVAC equipment, electrical, lighting facilities, boilers, pressure vessels, fixtures, interior walls, interior surfaces of exterior walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, plate glass, and skylights but excluding any items which are the responsibility of Lessor pursuant to Paragraph 7.2. Lessee, in keeping the Premises in good order, condition and repair, shall exercise and perform good maintenance practices, specifically including the procurement and maintenance of the service contracts required by Paragraph 7.1(b) below. Lessee’s obligations shall include restorations, replacements or renewals when necessary to keep the Premises and all improvements thereon or a part thereof in good order, condition and state of repair.

(b)    Service Contracts. Lessor shall, subject to reimbursement pursuant to Paragraph 4.2, procure and maintain contracts, in customary form and substance for, and with contractors specializing and experienced in the maintenance of the following equipment and improvements, if any, if and when installed on the Premises: (i) HVAC equipment, (ii) boiler and pressure vessels, and (iii) clarifiers. Lessor right, upon notice to Lessee, to procure and maintain any or all of such service contracts, and Lessee shall reimburse Lessor, upon demand, for the cost thereof.

7.2    Lessor’s Obligations. Subject to the provisions of Paragraphs 2.2 (Condition), 2.3 (Compliance), 4.2 (Common Area Operating Expenses), 6 (Use), 7.1 (Lessee’s Obligations), 9 (Damage or Destruction) and 14 (Condemnation), Lessor, subject to reimbursement pursuant to Paragraph 4.2, shall keep in good order, condition and repair the foundations, exterior walls, structural condition of interior bearing walls, exterior roof, fire sprinkler system, Common Area fire alarm and/or smoke detection systems, fire hydrants, parking lots, walkways, parkways, driveways, landscaping, fences, signs and utility systems serving the Common Areas and all parts thereof, as well as providing the services for which there is a Common Area Operating Expense pursuant to Paragraph 4.2. Lessor shall not be obligated to paint the exterior or interior surfaces of exterior walls nor shall Lessor be obligated to maintain, repair or replace windows, doors or plate glass of the Premises.

7.3    Utility Installations; Trade Fixtures; Alterations.

(a)    Definitions. The term “Utility Installations” refers to all floor and window coverings, air and/or vacuum lines, power panels, electrical distribution, security and fire protection systems, communication cabling, lighting fixtures, HVAC equipment, plumbing, and fencing in or on the Premises. The term “Trade Fixtures” shall mean Lessee’s machinery and equipment that can be removed without doing material damage to the Premises. The term “Alterations” shall mean any modification of the improvements, other than Utility Installations or Trade Fixtures, whether by addition or deletion. “Lessee Owned Alterations and/or Utility Installations” are defined as Alterations and/or Utility Installations made by Lessee that are not yet owned by Lessor pursuant to Paragraph 7.4(a).

(b)    Consent. Lessee shall not make any Alterations or Utility Installations to the Premises without Lessor’s prior written consent. Lessee may, however, make non-structural Alterations or Utility Installations to the interior of the Premises (excluding the roof) without such consent but upon notice to Lessor, as long as they are not visible from the outside, do not involve puncturing, relocating or removing the roof or any existing walls, will not affect the electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and/or life safety systems, do not trigger the requirement for additional modifications and/or improvements to the Premises resulting from Applicable Requirements, such as compliance with Title 24, and/or life safety systems, and the cumulative cost thereof during this Lease as extended does not exceed a sum equal to 3 month’s Base Rent in the aggregate or a sum equal to one month’s Base Rent in any one year. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessee shall not make or permit any roof penetrations and/or install anything on the roof without the prior written approval of Lessor. Lessor may, as a precondition to granting such approval, require Lessee to utilize a contractor chosen and/or approved by Lessor. Any Alterations or Utility Installations that Lessee shall desire to make and which require the consent of the Lessor shall be presented to Lessor in written form with detailed plans. Consent shall be deemed conditioned upon Lessee’s: (i) acquiring all applicable governmental permits, (ii) furnishing Lessor with copies of both the permits and the plans and specifications prior to commencement of the work, and (iii) compliance with all conditions of said permits and other Applicable Requirements in a prompt and expeditious manner. Any Alterations or Utility Installations shall be performed in a workmanlike manner with good and sufficient materials. Lessee shall promptly upon completion furnish Lessor with as-built plans and specifications. For work which costs an amount in excess of one month’s Base Rent, Lessor may condition its consent upon Lessee providing a lien and completion bond in an amount equal to 150% of the estimated cost of such Alteration or Utility Installation and/or upon Lessee’s posting an additional Security Deposit with Lessor.

(c)    Liens; Bonds. Lessee shall pay, when due, all claims for labor or materials furnished or alleged to have been furnished to or for Lessee at or for use on the Premises, which claims are or may be secured by any mechanic’s or materialmen’s lien against the Premises or any interest therein. Lessee shall give Lessor not less than 10 days notice prior to the commencement of any work in, on or about the Premises, and Lessor shall have the right to post notices of non-responsibility. If Lessee shall contest the validity of any such lien, claim or demand, then Lessee shall, at its sole expense defend and protect itself, Lessor and the Premises against the same and shall pay and satisfy any such adverse judgment that may be rendered thereon before the enforcement thereof. If Lessor shall require, Lessee shall furnish a surety bond in an amount equal to 150% of the amount of such contested lien, claim or demand, indemnifying Lessor against liability for the same. If Lessor elects to participate in any such action, Lessee shall pay Lessor’s attorneys’ fees and costs.

7.4    Ownership; Removal; Surrender; and Restoration.

(a)    Ownership. Subject to Lessor’s right to require removal or elect ownership as hereinafter provided, all Alterations and Utility Installations made by Lessee shall be the property of Lessee, but considered a part of the Premises. Lessor may, at any time, elect in writing to be the owner of all or any specified part of the Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations. Unless otherwise instructed per paragraph 7.4(b) hereof, all Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations shall, at the expiration or termination of this Lease, become the property of Lessor and be surrendered by Lessee with the Premises.

 

LOGO      Page 6 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


(b)    Removal. By delivery to Lessee of writien nottce from Lessor not earlier than 90 and not later than 30 days prior to the end of the term of this Lease, Lessor may require that any or all Lessee Owned Alterattons or Uttlity Installattons be removed by the expiratton or terminatton of this Lease. Lessor may require the removal at any ttme of all or any part of any Lessee Owned Alterattons or Uttlity Installattons made without the required consent.

(c)    Surrender; Restoration. Lessee shall surrender the Premises by the Expiratton Date or any earlier terminatton date, with all of the improvements, parts and surfaces thereof broom clean and free of debris, and in good operattng order, conditton and state of repair, ordinary wear and tear excepted. “Ordinary wear and tear” shall not include any damage or deterioratton that would have been prevented by good maintenance practtce. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Lessee occupies the Premises for 12 months or less, then Lessee shall surrender the Premises in the same conditton as delivered to Lessee on the Start Date with NO allowance for ordinary wear and tear. Lessee shall repair any damage occasioned by the installatton, maintenance or removal of Trade Fixtures, Lessee owned Alterattons and/or Uttlity Installattons, furnishings, and equipment as well as the removal of any storage tank installed by or for Lessee. Lessee shall also remove from the Premises any and all Hazardous Substances brought onto the Premises by or for Lessee, or any third party (except Hazardous Substances which were deposited via underground migratton from areas outside of the Project) to the level specified in Applicable Requirements. Trade Fixtures shall remain the property of Lessee and shall be removed by Lessee. Any personal property of Lessee not removed on or before the Expiratton Date or any earlier terminatton date shall be deemed to have been abandoned by Lessee and may be disposed of or retained by Lessor as Lessor may desire. The failure by Lessee to ttmely vacate the Premises pursuant to this Paragraph 7.4(c) without the express writien consent of Lessor shall constttute a holdover under the provisions of Paragraph 26 below.

 

8.

Insurance; Indemnity.

8.1    Payment of Premiums. The cost of the premiums for the insurance policies required to be carried by Lessor, pursuant to Paragraphs 8.2(b), 8.3(a) and 8.3(b), shall be a Common Area Operattng Expense. Premiums for policy periods commencing prior to, or extending beyond, the term of this Lease shall be prorated to coincide with the corresponding Start Date or Expiratton Date.

8.2    Liability Insurance.

(a)    Carried by Lessee. Lessee shall obtain and keep in force a Commercial General Liability policy of insurance protecttng Lessee and Lessor as an addittonal insured against claims for bodily injury, personal injury and property damage based upon or arising out of the ownership, use, occupancy or maintenance of the Premises and all areas appurtenant thereto. Such insurance shall be on an occurrence basis providing single limit coverage in an amount not less than $2,000,000 per occurrence with an annual aggregate of not less than $5,000,000. Lessee shall add Lessor as an addittonal insured by means of an endorsement at least as broad as the Insurance Service Organizatton’s “Addittonal Insured-Managers or Lessors of Premises” Endorsement. The policy shall not contain any intra-insured exclusions as between insured persons or organizattons, but shall include coverage for liability assumed under this Lease as an “insured contract” for the performance of Lessee’s indemnity obligattons under this Lease. The limits of said insurance shall not, however, limit the liability of Lessee nor relieve Lessee of any obligatton hereunder. Lessee shall provide an endorsement on its liability policy(ies) which provides that its insurance shall be primary to and not contributory with any similar insurance carried by Lessor, whose insurance shall be considered excess insurance only.

(b)    Carried by Lessor. Lessor shall maintain liability insurance as described in Paragraph 8.2(a), in additton to, and not in lieu of, the insurance required to be maintained by Lessee. Lessee shall not be named as an addittonal insured therein.

8.3    Property Insurance - Building, Improvements and Rental Value.

(a)    Building and Improvements. Lessor shall obtain and keep in force a policy or policies of insurance in the name of Lessor, with loss payable to Lessor, any ground-lessor, and to any Lender insuring loss or damage to the Premises. The amount of such insurance shall be equal to the full insurable replacement cost of the Premises, as the same shall exist from ttme to ttme, or the amount required by any Lender, but in no event more than the commercially reasonable and available insurable value thereof. Lessee Owned Alterattons and Uttlity Installattons, Trade Fixtures, and Lessee’s personal property shall be insured by Lessee not by Lessor. If the coverage is available and commercially appropriate, such policy or policies shall insure against all risks of direct physical loss or damage (except the perils of flood and/or earthquake unless required by a Lender), including coverage for debris removal and the enforcement of any Applicable Requirements requiring the upgrading, demolitton, reconstructton or replacement of any portton of the Premises as the result of a covered loss. Said policy or policies shall also contain an agreed valuatton provision in lieu of any coinsurance clause, waiver of subrogatton, and inflatton guard protectton causing an increase in the annual property insurance coverage amount by a factor of not less than the adjusted U.S. Department of Labor Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers for the city nearest to where the Premises are located. If such insurance coverage has a deducttble clause, the deducttble amount shall not exceed $5,000 per occurrence.

(b)    Rental Value. Lessor shall also obtain and keep in force a policy or policies in the name of Lessor with loss payable to Lessor and any Lender, insuring the loss of the full Rent for one year with an extended period of indemnity for an addittonal 180 days (“Rental Value insurance”). Said insurance shall contain an agreed valuatton provision in lieu of any coinsurance clause, and the amount of coverage shall be adjusted annually to reflect the projected Rent otherwise payable by Lessee, for the next 12 month period.

(c)    Adjacent Premises. Lessee shall pay for any increase in the premiums for the property insurance of the Building and for the Common Areas or other buildings in the Project if said increase is caused by Lessee’s acts, omissions, use or occupancy of the Premises.

(d)    Lessee’s Improvements. Since Lessor is the Insuring Party, Lessor shall not be required to insure Lessee Owned Alterattons and Uttlity Installattons unless the item in questton has become the property of Lessor under the terms of this Lease.

8.4    Lessee’s Property; Business Interruption Insurance; Worker’s Compensation Insurance.

(a)    Property Damage. Lessee shall obtain and maintain insurance coverage on all of Lessee’s personal property, Trade Fixtures, and Lessee Owned Alterattons and Uttlity Installattons. Such insurance shall be full replacement cost coverage with a deducttble of not to exceed $1,000 per occurrence. The proceeds from any such insurance shall be used by Lessee for the replacement of personal property, Trade Fixtures and Lessee Owned Alterattons and Uttlity Installattons.

(b)    Business Interruption. Lessee shall obtain and maintain loss of income and extra expense insurance in amounts as will reimburse Lessee for direct or indirect loss of earnings atiributable to all perils commonly insured against by prudent lessees in the business of Lessee or atiributable to preventton of access to the Premises as a result of such perils.

(c)    Worker’s Compensation Insurance. Lessee shall obtain and maintain Worker’s Compensatton Insurance in such amount as may be required by Applicable Requirements. Such policy shall include a ‘Waiver of Subrogatton’ endorsement. Lessee shall provide Lessor with a copy of such endorsement along with the certtficate of insurance or copy of the policy required by paragraph 8.5.

(d)    No Representation of Adequate Coverage. Lessor makes no representatton that the limits or forms of coverage of insurance specified herein are adequate to cover Lessee’s property, business operattons or obligattons under this Lease.

8.5    Insurance Policies. Insurance required herein shall be by companies maintaining during the policy term a “General Policyholders Rattng” of at least A-, VII, as set forth in the most current issue of “Best’s Insurance Guide”, or such other rattng as may be required by a Lender. Lessee shall not do or permit to be done anything which invalidates the required insurance policies. Lessee shall, prior to the Start Date, deliver to Lessor certtfied copies of policies of such insurance or certtficates with copies of the required endorsements evidencing the existence and amounts of the required insurance. No such policy shall be cancelable or subject to modificatton except after 30 days prior writien nottce to Lessor. Lessee shall, at least 10 days prior to the expiratton of such policies, furnish Lessor with evidence of renewals or “insurance binders” evidencing renewal thereof, or Lessor may increase his liability insurance coverage and charge the cost thereof to Lessee, which

 

LOGO      Page 7 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


amount shall be payable by Lessee to Lessor upon demand. Such policies shall be for a term of at least one year, or the length of the remaining term of this Lease, whichever is less. If either Party shall fail to procure and maintain the insurance required to be carried by it, the other Party may, but shall not be required to, procure and maintain the same.

8.6    Waiver of Subrogation. Without affecttng any other rights or remedies, Lessee and Lessor each hereby release and relieve the other, and waive their enttre right to recover damages against the other, for loss of or damage to its property arising out of or incident to the perils required to be insured against herein. The effect of such releases and waivers is not limited by the amount of insurance carried or required, or by any deducttbles applicable hereto. The Parttes agree to have their respecttve property damage insurance carriers waive any right to subrogatton that such companies may have against Lessor or Lessee, as the case may be, so long as the insurance is not invalidated thereby.

8.7    Indemnity. Except for Lessor’s gross negligence or willful misconduct, Lessee shall indemnify, protect, defend and hold harmless the Premises, Lessor and its agents, Lessor’s master or ground lessor, partners and Lenders, from and against any and all claims, loss of rents and/or damages, liens, judgments, penalttes, atiorneys’ and consultants’ fees, expenses and/or liabilittes arising out of, involving, or in connectton with, a Breach of the Lease by Lessee and/or the use and/or occupancy of the Premises and/or Project by Lessee and/or by Lessee’s employees, contractors or invitees . If any actton or proceeding is brought against Lessor by reason of any of the foregoing matiers, Lessee shall upon nottce defend the same at Lessee’s expense by counsel reasonably sattsfactory to Lessor and Lessor shall cooperate with Lessee in such defense. Lessor need not have first paid any such claim in order to be defended or indemnified.

8.8    Exemption of Lessor and its Agents from Liability. Notwithstanding the negligence or breach of this Lease by Lessor or its agents, neither Lessor nor its agents shall be liable under any circumstances for: (i) injury or damage to the person or goods, wares, merchandise or other property of Lessee, Lessee’s employees, contractors, invitees, customers, or any other person in or about the Premises, whether such damage or injury is caused by or results from fire, steam, electricity, gas, water or rain, indoor air quality, the presence of mold or from the breakage, leakage, obstructton or other defects of pipes, fire sprinklers, wires, appliances, plumbing, HVAC or lighttng fixtures, or from any other cause, whether the said injury or damage results from condittons arising upon the Premises or upon other porttons of the Building, or from other sources or places, (ii) any damages arising from any act or neglect of any other tenant of Lessor or from the failure of Lessor or its agents to enforce the provisions of any other lease in the Project, or (iii) injury to Lessee’s business or for any loss of income or profit therefrom. Instead, it is intended that Lessee’s sole recourse in the event of such damages or injury be to file a claim on the insurance policy(ies) that Lessee is required to maintain pursuant to the provisions of paragraph 8.

8.9    Failure to Provide Insurance. Lessee acknowledges that any failure on its part to obtain or maintain the insurance required herein will expose Lessor to risks and potenttally cause Lessor to incur costs not contemplated by this Lease, the extent of which will be extremely difficult to ascertain. Accordingly, for any month or portton thereof that Lessee does not maintain the required insurance and/or does not provide Lessor with the required binders or certtficates evidencing the existence of the required insurance, the Base Rent shall be automattcally increased, without any requirement for nottce to Lessee, by an amount equal to 10% of the then existtng Base Rent or $100, whichever is greater. The parttes agree that such increase in Base Rent represents fair and reasonable compensatton for the addittonal risk/costs that Lessor will incur by reason of Lessee’s failure to maintain the required insurance. Such increase in Base Rent shall in no event consttute a waiver of Lessee’s Default or Breach with respect to the failure to maintain such insurance, prevent the exercise of any of the other rights and remedies granted hereunder, nor relieve Lessee of its obligatton to maintain the insurance specified in this Lease.

 

9.

Damage or Destruction.

9.1    Definitions.

(a)    “Premises Partial Damage” shall mean damage or destructton to the improvements on the Premises, other than Lessee Owned Alterattons and Uttlity Installattons, which can reasonably be repaired in 3 months or less from the date of the damage or destructton, and the cost thereof does not exceed a sum equal to 6 month’s Base Rent. Lessor shall nottfy Lessee in writtng within 30 days from the date of the damage or destructton as to whether or not the damage is Parttal or Total.

(b)    “Premises Total Destruction” shall mean damage or destructton to the improvements on the Premises, other than Lessee Owned Alterattons and Uttlity Installattons and Trade Fixtures, which cannot reasonably be repaired in 3 months or less from the date of the damage or destructton and/or the cost thereof exceeds a sum equal to 6 month’s Base Rent. Lessor shall nottfy Lessee in writtng within 30 days from the date of the damage or destructton as to whether or not the damage is Parttal or Total.

(c)    “Insured Loss” shall mean damage or destructton to improvements on the Premises, other than Lessee Owned Alterattons and Uttlity Installattons and Trade Fixtures, which was caused by an event required to be covered by the insurance described in Paragraph 8.3(a), irrespecttve of any deducttble amounts or coverage limits involved.

(d)    “Replacement Cost” shall mean the cost to repair or rebuild the improvements owned by Lessor at the ttme of the occurrence to their conditton existtng immediately prior thereto, including demolitton, debris removal and upgrading required by the operatton of Applicable Requirements, and without deductton for depreciatton.

(e)    “Hazardous Substance Condition” shall mean the occurrence or discovery of a conditton involving the presence of, or a contaminatton by, a Hazardous Substance, in, on, or under the Premises which requires restoratton.

9.2    Partial Damage - Insured Loss. If a Premises Parttal Damage that is an Insured Loss occurs, then Lessor shall, at Lessor’s expense, repair such damage (but not Lessee’s Trade Fixtures or Lessee Owned Alterattons and Utility Installattons) as soon as reasonably possible and this Lease shall conttnue in full force and effect; provided, however, that Lessee shall, at Lessor’s electton, make the repair of any damage or destructton the total cost to repair of which is $10,000 or less, and, in such event, Lessor shall make any applicable insurance proceeds available to Lessee on a reasonable basis for that purpose. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the required insurance was not in force or the insurance proceeds are not sufficient to effect such repair, the Insuring Party shall promptly contribute the shortage in proceeds as and when required to complete said repairs. In the event, however, such shortage was due to the fact that, by reason of the unique nature of the improvements, full replacement cost insurance coverage was not commercially reasonable and available, Lessor shall have no obligatton to pay for the shortage in insurance proceeds or to fully restore the unique aspects of the Premises unless Lessee provides Lessor with the funds to cover same, or adequate assurance thereof, within 10 days following receipt of writien nottce of such shortage and request therefor. If Lessor receives said funds or adequate assurance thereof within said 10 day period, the party responsible for making the repairs shall complete them as soon as reasonably possible and this Lease shall remain in full force and effect. If such funds or assurance are not received, Lessor may nevertheless elect by writien nottce to Lessee within 10 days thereafter to: (i) make such restoratton and repair as is commercially reasonable with Lessor paying any shortage in proceeds, in which case this Lease shall remain in full force and effect, or (ii) have this Lease terminate 30 days thereafter. Lessee shall not be entttled to reimbursement of any funds contributed by Lessee to repair any such damage or destructton. Premises Parttal Damage due to flood or earthquake shall be subject to Paragraph 9.3, notwithstanding that there may be some insurance coverage, but the net proceeds of any such insurance shall be made available for the repairs if made by either Party.

9.3    Partial Damage - Uninsured Loss. If a Premises Parttal Damage that is not an Insured Loss occurs, unless caused by a negligent or willful act of Lessee (in which event Lessee shall make the repairs at Lessee’s expense), Lessor may either: (i) repair such damage as soon as reasonably possible at Lessor’s expense (subject to reimbursement pursuant to Paragraph 4.2), in which event this Lease shall conttnue in full force and effect, or (ii) terminate this Lease by giving writien nottce to Lessee within 30 days after receipt by Lessor of knowledge of the occurrence of such damage. Such terminatton shall be effecttve 60 days following the date of such nottce. In the event Lessor elects to terminate this Lease, Lessee shall have the right within 10 days after receipt of the terminatton nottce to give writien nottce to

 

LOGO      Page 8 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


Lessor of Lessee’s commitment to pay for the repair of such damage without reimbursement from Lessor. Lessee shall provide Lessor with said funds or satisfactory assurance thereof within 30 days after making such commitment. In such event this Lease shall continue in full force and effect, and Lessor shall proceed to make such repairs as soon as reasonably possible after the required funds are available. If Lessee does not make the required commitment, this Lease shall terminate as of the date specified in the termination notice.

9.4    Total Destruction. Notwithstanding any other provision hereof, if a Premises Total Destruction occurs, this Lease shall terminate 60 days following such Destruction. If the damage or destruction was caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of Lessee, Lessor shall have the right to recover Lessor’s damages from Lessee, except as provided in Paragraph 8.6.

9.5    Damage Near End of Term. If at any time during the last 6 months of this Lease there is damage for which the cost to repair exceeds one month’s Base Rent, whether or not an Insured Loss, Lessor may terminate this Lease effective 60 days following the date of occurrence of such damage by giving a written termination notice to Lessee within 30 days after the date of occurrence of such damage. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if Lessee at that time has an exercisable option to extend this Lease or to purchase the Premises, then Lessee may preserve this Lease by, (a) exercising such option and (b) providing Lessor with any shortage in insurance proceeds (or adequate assurance thereof) needed to make the repairs on or before the earlier of (i) the date which is 10 days after Lessee’s receipt of Lessor’s written notice purporting to terminate this Lease, or (ii) the day prior to the date upon which such option expires. If Lessee duly exercises such option during such period and provides Lessor with funds (or adequate assurance thereof) to cover any shortage in insurance proceeds, Lessor shall, at Lessor’s commercially reasonable expense, repair such damage as soon as reasonably possible and this Lease shall continue in full force and effect. If Lessee fails to exercise such option and provide such funds or assurance during such period, then this Lease shall terminate on the date specified in the termination notice and Lessee’s option shall be extinguished.

9.6    Abatement of Rent; Lessee’s Remedies.

(a)    Abatement. In the event of Premises Partial Damage or Premises Total Destruction or a Hazardous Substance Condition for which Lessee is not responsible under this Lease, the Rent payable by Lessee for the period required for the repair, remediation or restoration of such damage shall be abated in proportion to the degree to which Lessee’s use of the Premises is impaired, but not to exceed the proceeds received from the Rental Value insurance. All other obligations of Lessee hereunder shall be performed by Lessee, and Lessor shall have no liability for any such damage, destruction, remediation, repair or restoration except as provided herein.

(b)    Remedies. If Lessor is obligated to repair or restore the Premises and does not commence, in a substantial and meaningful way, such repair or restoration within 90 days after such obligation shall accrue, Lessee may, at any time prior to the commencement of such repair or restoration, give written notice to Lessor and to any Lenders of which Lessee has actual notice, of Lessee’s election to terminate this Lease on a date not less than 60 days following the giving of such notice. If Lessee gives such notice and such repair or restoration is not commenced within 30 days thereafter, this Lease shall terminate as of the date specified in said notice. If the repair or restoration is commenced within such 30 days, this Lease shall continue in full force and effect. “Commence” shall mean either the unconditional authorization of the preparation of the required plans, or the beginning of the actual work on the Premises, whichever first occurs.

9.7    Termination; Advance Payments. Upon termination of this Lease pursuant to Paragraph 6.2(g) or Paragraph 9, an equitable adjustment shall be made concerning advance Base Rent and any other advance payments made by Lessee to Lessor. Lessor shall, in addition, return to Lessee so much of Lessee’s Security Deposit as has not been, or is not then required to be, used by Lessor.

 

10.

Real Property Taxes.

10.1    Definition. As used herein, the term “Real Property Taxes” shall include any form of assessment; real estate, general, special, ordinary or extraordinary, or rental levy or tax (other than inheritance, personal income or estate taxes); improvement bond; and/or license fee imposed upon or levied against any legal or equitable interest of Lessor in the Project, Lessor’s right to other income therefrom, and/or Lessor’s business of leasing, by any authority having the direct or indirect power to tax and where the funds are generated with reference to the Project address. The term “Real Property Taxes” shall also include any tax, fee, levy, assessment or charge, or any increase therein: (i) imposed by reason of events occurring during the term of this Lease, including but not limited to, a change in the ownership of the Project, (ii) a change in the improvements thereon, and/or (iii) levied or assessed on machinery or equipment provided by Lessor to Lessee pursuant to this Lease. In calculating Real Property Taxes for any calendar year, the Real Property Taxes for any real estate tax year shall be included in the calculation of Real Property Taxes for such calendar year based upon the number of days which such calendar year and tax year have in common.

10.2    Payment of Taxes. Except as otherwise provided in Paragraph 10.3, Lessor shall pay the Real Property Taxes applicable to the Project, and said payments shall be included in the calculation of Common Area Operating Expenses in accordance with the provisions of Paragraph 4.2.

10.3    Additional Improvements. Common Area Operating Expenses shall not include Real Property Taxes specified in the tax assessor’s records and work sheets as being caused by additional improvements placed upon the Project by other lessees or by Lessor for the exclusive enjoyment of such other lessees. Notwithstanding Paragraph 10.2 hereof, Lessee shall, however, pay to Lessor at the time Common Area Operating Expenses are payable under Paragraph 4.2, the entirety of any increase in Real Property Taxes if assessed solely by reason of Alterations, Trade Fixtures or Utility Installations placed upon the Premises by Lessee or at Lessee’s request or by reason of any alterations or improvements to the Premises made by Lessor subsequent to the execution of this Lease by the Parties.

10.4    Joint Assessment. If the Building is not separately assessed, Real Property Taxes allocated to the Building shall be an equitable proportion of the Real Property Taxes for all of the land and improvements included within the tax parcel assessed, such proportion to be determined by Lessor from the respective valuations assigned in the assessor’s work sheets or such other information as may be reasonably available. Lessor’s reasonable determination thereof, in good faith, shall be conclusive.

10.5    Personal Property Taxes. Lessee shall pay prior to delinquency all taxes assessed against and levied upon Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations, Trade Fixtures, furnishings, equipment and all personal property of Lessee contained in the Premises. When possible, Lessee shall cause its Lessee Owned Alterations and Utility Installations, Trade Fixtures, furnishings, equipment and all other personal property to be assessed and billed separately from the real property of Lessor. If any of Lessee’s said property shall be assessed with Lessor’s real property, Lessee shall pay Lessor the taxes attributable to Lessee’s property within 10 days after receipt of a written statement setting forth the taxes applicable to Lessee’s property.

11.    Utilities and Services. Lessee shall pay for all water, gas, heat, light, power, telephone, trash disposal and other utilities and services supplied to the Premises, together with any taxes thereon (See Addendum). Notwithstanding the provisions of Paragraph 4.2, if at any time in Lessor’s sole judgment, Lessor determines that Lessee is using a disproportionate amount of water, electricity or other commonly metered utilities, or that Lessee is generating such a large volume of trash as to require an increase in the size of the trash receptacle and/or an increase in the number of times per month that it is emptied, then Lessor may increase Lessee’s Base Rent by an amount equal to such increased costs. There shall be no abatement of Rent and Lessor shall not be liable in any respect whatsoever for the inadequacy, stoppage, interruption or discontinuance of any utility or service due to riot, strike, labor dispute, breakdown, accident, repair or other cause beyond Lessor’s reasonable control or in cooperation with governmental request or directions.

 

12.

Assignment and Subletting.

 

12.1

Lessor’s Consent Required.

(a) Lessee shall not voluntarily or by operation of law assign, transfer, mortgage or encumber (collectively, “assign or assignment”) or sublet all or any

 

LOGO      Page 9 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


part of Lessee’s interest in this Lease or in the Premises without Lessor’s prior written consent. Lessor’s written consent is not required for any sublease to an affiliated entity of Lessee under common ownership and/or control with Lessse and if sublessee cannot procure an equal guaranty or letter of credit as Lessee, the Letter of Credit of Lessee shall remain in full force and effect.

(b)    Unless Lessee is a corporation and its stock is publicly traded on a national stock exchange, a change in the control of Lessee shall constitute an assignment requiring consent. The transfer, on a cumulative basis, of 25% or more of the voting control of Lessee shall constitute a change in control for this purpose.

(c)    The involvement of Lessee or its assets in any transaction, or series of transactions (by way of merger, sale, acquisition, financing, transfer, leveraged buy-out or otherwise), whether or not a formal assignment or hypothecation of this Lease or Lessee’s assets occurs, which results or will result in a reduction of the Net Worth of Lessee by an amount greater than 25% of such Net Worth as it was represented at the time of the execution of this Lease or at the time of the most recent assignment to which Lessor has consented, or as it exists immediately prior to said transaction or transactions constituting such reduction, whichever was or is greater, shall be considered an assignment of this Lease to which Lessor may withhold its consent. “Net Worth of Lessee” shall mean the net worth of Lessee (excluding any guarantors) established under generally accepted accounting principles.

(d)    An assignment or subletting without consent shall, at Lessor’s option, be a Default curable after notice per Paragraph 13.1(d), or a noncurable Breach without the necessity of any notice and grace period. If Lessor elects to treat such unapproved assignment or subletting as a noncurable Breach, Lessor may either: (i) terminate this Lease, or (ii) upon 30 days written notice, increase the monthly Base Rent to 110% of the Base Rent then in effect. Further, in the event of such Breach and rental adjustment, (i) the purchase price of any option to purchase the Premises held by Lessee shall be subject to similar adjustment to 110% of the price previously in effect, and (ii) all fixed and non-fixed rental adjustments scheduled during the remainder of the Lease term shall be increased to 110% of the scheduled adjusted rent.

(e)    Lessee’s remedy for any breach of Paragraph 12.1 by Lessor shall be limited to compensatory damages and/or injunctive relief.

(f)    Lessor may reasonably withhold consent to a proposed assignment or subletting if Lessee is in Default at the time consent is requested.

12.2    Terms and Conditions Applicable to Assignment and Subletting.

(a)    Regardless of Lessor’s consent, no assignment or subletting shall : (i) be effective without the express written assumption by such assignee or sublessee of the obligations of Lessee under this Lease, (ii) release Lessee of any obligations hereunder, or (iii) alter the primary liability of Lessee for the payment of Rent or for the performance of any other obligations to be performed by Lessee.

(b)    Lessor may accept Rent or performance of Lessee’s obligations from any person other than Lessee pending approval or disapproval of an assignment. Neither a delay in the approval or disapproval of such assignment nor the acceptance of Rent or performance shall constitute a waiver or estoppel of Lessor’s right to exercise its remedies for Lessee’s Default or Breach.

(c)    Lessor’s consent to any assignment or subletting shall not constitute a consent to any subsequent assignment or subletting.

(d) In the event of any Default or Breach by Lessee, Lessor may proceed directly against Lessee, any Guarantors or anyone else responsible for the performance of Lessee’s obligations under this Lease, including any assignee or sublessee, without first exhausting Lessor’s remedies against any other person or entity responsible therefor to Lessor, or any security held by Lessor.

(e)    Each request for consent to an assignment or subletting shall be in writing, accompanied by information relevant to Lessor’s determination as to the financial and operational responsibility and appropriateness of the proposed assignee or sublessee, including but not limited to the intended use and/or required modification of the Premises, if any, together with a fee of $1,500 as consideration for Lessor’s considering and processing said request. Lessee agrees to provide Lessor with such other or additional information and/or documentation as may be reasonably requested. (See also Paragraph 36)

(f)    Any assignee of, or sublessee under, this Lease shall, by reason of accepting such assignment, entering into such sublease, or entering into possession of the Premises or any portion thereof, be deemed to have assumed and agreed to conform and comply with each and every term, covenant, condition and obligation herein to be observed or performed by Lessee during the term of said assignment or sublease, other than such obligations as are contrary to or inconsistent with provisions of an assignment or sublease to which Lessor has specifically consented to in writing.

(g)    Lessor’s consent to any assignment or subletting shall not transfer to the assignee or sublessee any Option granted to the original Lessee by this Lease unless such transfer is specifically consented to by Lessor in writing. (See Paragraph 39.2)

12.3 Additional Terms and Conditions Applicable to Subletting. The following terms and conditions shall apply to any subletting by Lessee of all or any part of the Premises and shall be deemed included in all subleases under this Lease whether or not expressly incorporated therein:

(a)    Lessee hereby assigns and transfers to Lessor all of Lessee’s interest in all Rent payable on any sublease, and Lessor may collect such Rent and apply same toward Lessee’s obligations under this Lease; provided, however, that until a Breach shall occur in the performance of Lessee’s obligations, Lessee may collect said Rent. In the event that the amount collected by Lessor exceeds Lessee’s then outstanding obligations any such excess shall be refunded to Lessee. Lessor shall not, by reason of the foregoing or any assignment of such sublease, nor by reason of the collection of Rent, be deemed liable to the sublessee for any failure of Lessee to perform and comply with any of Lessee’s obligations to such sublessee. Lessee hereby irrevocably authorizes and directs any such sublessee, upon receipt of a written notice from Lessor stating that a Breach exists in the performance of Lessee’s obligations under this Lease, to pay to Lessor all Rent due and to become due under the sublease. Sublessee shall rely upon any such notice from Lessor and shall pay all Rents to Lessor without any obligation or right to inquire as to whether such Breach exists, notwithstanding any claim from Lessee to the contrary.

(b)    In the event of a Breach by Lessee, Lessor may, at its option, require sublessee to attorn to Lessor, in which event Lessor shall undertake the obligations of the sublessor under such sublease from the time of the exercise of said option to the expiration of such sublease; provided, however, Lessor shall not be liable for any prepaid rents or security deposit paid by such sublessee to such sublessor or for any prior Defaults or Breaches of such sublessor.

(c)    Any matter requiring the consent of the sublessor under a sublease shall also require the consent of Lessor.

(d)    No sublessee shall further assign or sublet all or any part of the Premises without Lessor’s prior written consent.

(e)    Lessor shall deliver a copy of any notice of Default or Breach by Lessee to the sublessee, who shall have the right to cure the Default of Lessee within the grace period, if any, specified in such notice. The sublessee shall have a right of reimbursement and offset from and against Lessee for any such Defaults cured by the sublessee.

 

13.

Default; Breach; Remedies.

13.1 Default; Breach. A “Default” is defined as a failure by the Lessee to comply with or perform any of the terms, covenants, conditions or Rules and Regulations under this Lease. A “Breach” is defined as the occurrence of one or more of the following Defaults, and the failure of Lessee to cure such Default within any applicable grace period:

(a)    The abandonment of the Premises; or the vacating of the Premises without providing a commercially reasonable level of security, or where the

 

LOGO      Page 10 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


coverage of the property insurance described in Paragraph 8.3 is jeopardized as a result thereof, or without providing reasonable assurances to minimize potential vandalism.

(b)    The failure of Lessee to make any payment of Rent or any Security Deposit required to be made by Lessee hereunder, whether to Lessor or to a third party, when due, to provide reasonable evidence of insurance or surety bond, or to fulfill any obligation under this Lease which endangers or threatens life or property, where such failure continues for a period of 3 business days following written notice to Lessee. THE ACCEPTANCE BY LESSOR OF A PARTIAL PAYMENT OF RENT OR SECURITY DEPOSIT SHALL NOT CONSTITUTE A WAIVER OF ANY OF LESSOR’S RIGHTS, INCLUDING LESSOR’S RIGHT TO RECOVER POSSESSION OF THE PREMISES.

(c)    The failure of Lessee to allow Lessor and/or its agents access to the Premises or the commission of waste, act or acts constituting public or private nuisance, and/or an illegal activity on the Premises by Lessee, where such actions continue for a period of 3 business days following written notice to Lessee. In the event that Lessee commits waste, a nuisance or an illegal activity a second time then, the Lessor may elect to treat such conduct as a non-curable Breach rather than a Default.

(d)    The failure by Lessee to provide (i) reasonable written evidence of compliance with Applicable Requirements, (ii) the service contracts, (iii) the rescission of an unauthorized assignment or subletting, (iv) an Estoppel Certificate or financial statements, (v) a requested subordination, (vi) evidence concerning any guaranty and/or Guarantor, (vii) any document requested under Paragraph 41, (viii) material safety data sheets (MSDS), or (ix) any other documentation or information which Lessor may reasonably require of Lessee under the terms of this Lease, where any such failure continues for a period of 10 days following written notice to Lessee.

(e)    A Default by Lessee as to the terms, covenants, conditions or provisions of this Lease, or of the rules adopted under Paragraph 2.9 hereof, other than those described in subparagraphs 13.1(a), (b), (c) or (d), above, where such Default continues for a period of 30 days after written notice; provided, however, that if the nature of Lessee’s Default is such that more than 30 days are reasonably required for its cure, then it shall not be deemed to be a Breach if Lessee commences such cure within said 30 day period and thereafter diligently prosecutes such cure to completion.

(f)    The occurrence of any of the following events: (i) the making of any general arrangement or assignment for the benefit of creditors; (ii) becoming a “debtor” as defined in 11 U.S.C. § 101 or any successor statute thereto (unless, in the case of a petition filed against Lessee, the same is dismissed within 60 days); (iii) the appointment of a trustee or receiver to take possession of substantially all of Lessee’s assets located at the Premises or of Lessee’s interest in this Lease, where possession is not restored to Lessee within 30 days; or (iv) the attachment, execution or other judicial seizure of substantially all of Lessee’s assets located at the Premises or of Lessee’s interest in this Lease, where such seizure is not discharged within 30 days; provided, however, in the event that any provision of this subparagraph is contrary to any applicable law, such provision shall be of no force or effect, and not affect the validity of the remaining provisions.

(g)    The discovery that any financial statement of Lessee or of any Guarantor given to Lessor was materially false.

(h)    If the performance of Lessee’s obligations under this Lease is guaranteed: (i) the death of a Guarantor, (ii) the termination of a Guarantor’s liability with respect to this Lease other than in accordance with the terms of such guaranty, (iii) a Guarantor’s becoming insolvent or the subject of a bankruptcy filing, (iv) a Guarantor’s refusal to honor the guaranty, or (v) a Guarantor’s breach of its guaranty obligation on an anticipatory basis, and Lessee’s failure, within 60 days following written notice of any such event, to provide written alternative assurance or security, which, when coupled with the then existing resources of Lessee, equals or exceeds the combined financial resources of Lessee and the Guarantors that existed at the time of execution of this Lease.

13.2 Remedies. If Lessee fails to perform any of its affirmative duties or obligations, within 10 days after written notice (or in case of an emergency, without notice), Lessor may, at its option, perform such duty or obligation on Lessee’s behalf, including but not limited to the obtaining of reasonably required bonds, insurance policies, or governmental licenses, permits or approvals. Lessee shall pay to Lessor an amount equal to 115% of the costs and expenses incurred by Lessor in such performance upon receipt of an invoice therefor. In the event of a Breach, Lessor may, with or without further notice or demand, and without limiting Lessor in the exercise of any right or remedy which Lessor may have by reason of such Breach:

(a)    Terminate Lessee’s right to possession of the Premises by any lawful means, in which case this Lease shall terminate and Lessee shall immediately surrender possession to Lessor. In such event Lessor shall be entitled to recover from Lessee: (i) the unpaid Rent which had been earned at the time of termination; (ii) the worth at the time of award of the amount by which the unpaid rent which would have been earned after termination until the time of award exceeds the amount of such rental loss that the Lessee proves could have been reasonably avoided; (iii) the worth at the time of award of the amount by which the unpaid rent for the balance of the term after the time of award exceeds the amount of such rental loss that the Lessee proves could be reasonably avoided; and (iv) any other amount necessary to compensate Lessor for all the detriment proximately caused by the Lessee’s failure to perform its obligations under this Lease or which in the ordinary course of things would be likely to result therefrom, including but not limited to the cost of recovering possession of the Premises, expenses of reletting, including necessary renovation and alteration of the Premises, reasonable attorneys’ fees, and that portion of any leasing commission paid by Lessor in connection with this Lease applicable to the unexpired term of this Lease. The worth at the time of award of the amount referred to in provision (iii) of the immediately preceding sentence shall be computed by discounting such amount at the discount rate of the Federal Reserve Bank of the District within which the Premises are located at the time of award plus one percent. Efforts by Lessor to mitigate damages caused by Lessee’s Breach of this Lease shall not waive Lessor’s right to recover any damages to which Lessor is otherwise entitled. If termination of this Lease is obtained through the provisional remedy of unlawful detainer, Lessor shall have the right to recover in such proceeding any unpaid Rent and damages as are recoverable therein, or Lessor may reserve the right to recover all or any part thereof in a separate suit. If a notice and grace period required under Paragraph 13.1 was not previously given, a notice to pay rent or quit, or to perform or quit given to Lessee under the unlawful detainer statute shall also constitute the notice required by Paragraph 13.1. In such case, the applicable grace period required by Paragraph 13.1 and the unlawful detainer statute shall run concurrently, and the failure of Lessee to cure the Default within the greater of the two such grace periods shall constitute both an unlawful detainer and a Breach of this Lease entitling Lessor to the remedies provided for in this Lease and/or by said statute.

(b)    Continue the Lease and Lessee’s right to possession and recover the Rent as it becomes due, in which event Lessee may sublet or assign, subject only to reasonable limitations. Acts of maintenance, efforts to relet, and/or the appointment of a receiver to protect the Lessor’s interests, shall not constitute a termination of the Lessee’s right to possession.

(c)    Pursue any other remedy now or hereafter available under the laws or judicial decisions of the state wherein the Premises are located. The expiration or termination of this Lease and/or the termination of Lessee’s right to possession shall not relieve Lessee from liability under any indemnity provisions of this Lease as to matters occurring or accruing during the term hereof or by reason of Lessee’s occupancy of the Premises.

13.3 Inducement Recapture. Any agreement for free or abated rent or other charges, the cost of tenant improvements for Lessee paid for or performed by Lessor, or for the giving or paying by Lessor to or for Lessee of any cash or other bonus, inducement or consideration for Lessee’s entering into this Lease, all of which concessions are hereinafter referred to as “Inducement Provisions,” shall be deemed conditioned upon Lessee’s full and faithful performance of all of the terms, covenants and conditions of this Lease. Upon Breach of this Lease by Lessee, any such Inducement Provision shall automatically be deemed deleted from this Lease and of no further force or effect, and any rent, other charge, bonus, inducement or consideration theretofore abated, given or paid by Lessor under such an Inducement Provision shall be immediately due and payable by Lessee to Lessor, notwithstanding any subsequent cure of said Breach by Lessee. The acceptance by Lessor of rent or the cure of the Breach which initiated the operation of this paragraph shall not be deemed a waiver by Lessor of the provisions of this paragraph unless specifically so stated in writing by Lessor at the time of such acceptance.

 

 

LOGO      Page 11 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


13.4 Late Charges. Lessee hereby acknowledges that late payment by Lessee of Rent will cause Lessor to incur costs not contemplated by this Lease, the exact amount of which will be extremely difficult to ascertain. Such costs include, but are not limited to, processing and accounting charges, and late charges which may be imposed upon Lessor by any Lender. Accordingly, if any Rent shall not be received by Lessor within 5 days after such amount shall be due, then, without any requirement for notice to Lessee, Lessee shall immediately pay to Lessor a one-time late charge equal to 10% of each such overdue amount or $100, whichever is greater. The parties hereby agree that such late charge represents a fair and reasonable estimate of the costs Lessor will incur by reason of such late payment. Acceptance of such late charge by Lessor shall in no event constitute a waiver of Lessee’s Default or Breach with respect to such overdue amount, nor prevent the exercise of any of the other rights and remedies granted hereunder. In the event that a late charge is payable hereunder, whether or not collected, for 3 consecutive installments of Base Rent, then notwithstanding any provision of this Lease to the contrary, Base Rent shall, at Lessor’s option, become due and payable quarterly in advance.

13.5 Interest. Any monetary payment due Lessor hereunder, other than late charges, not received by Lessor, when due shall bear interest from the 31st day after it was due. The interest (“Interest”) charged shall be computed at the rate of 10% per annum but shall not exceed the maximum rate allowed by law. Interest is payable in addition to the potential late charge provided for in Paragraph 13.4.

13.6 Breach by Lessor.

(a)    Nofice of Breach. Lessor shall not be deemed in breach of this Lease unless Lessor fails within a reasonable time to perform an obligation required to be performed by Lessor. For purposes of this Paragraph, a reasonable time shall in no event be less than 30 days after receipt by Lessor, and any Lender whose name and address shall have been furnished to Lessee in writing for such purpose, of written notice specifying wherein such obligation of Lessor has not been performed; provided, however, that if the nature of Lessor’s obligation is such that more than 30 days are reasonably required for its performance, then Lessor shall not be in breach if performance is commenced within such 30 day period and thereafter diligently pursued to completion.

(b)    Performance by Lessee on Behalf of Lessor. In the event that neither Lessor nor Lender cures said breach within 30 days after receipt of said notice, or if having commenced said cure they do not diligently pursue it to completion, then Lessee may elect to cure said breach at Lessee’s expense and offset from Rent the actual and reasonable cost to perform such cure, provided however, that such offset shall not exceed an amount equal to the greater of one month’s Base Rent or the Security Deposit, reserving Lessee’s right to reimbursement from Lessor for any such expense in excess of such offset. Lessee shall document the cost of said cure and supply said documentation to Lessor.

14.    Condemnafion. If the Premises or any portion thereof are taken under the power of eminent domain or sold under the threat of the exercise of said power (collectively “Condemnafion”), this Lease shall terminate as to the part taken as of the date the condemning authority takes title or possession, whichever first occurs. If more than 10% of the floor area of the Unit, or more than 25% of the parking spaces is taken by Condemnafion, Lessee may, at Lessee’s option, to be exercised in writing within 10 days after Lessor shall have given Lessee written notice of such taking (or in the absence of such notice, within 10 days after the condemning authority shall have taken possession) terminate this Lease as of the date the condemning authority takes such possession. If Lessee does not terminate this Lease in accordance with the foregoing, this Lease shall remain in full force and effect as to the portion of the Premises remaining, except that the Base Rent shall be reduced in proportion to the reduction in utility of the Premises caused by such Condemnation. Condemnation awards and/or payments shall be the property of Lessor, whether such award shall be made as compensation for diminution in value of the leasehold, the value of the part taken, or for severance damages; provided, however, that Lessee shall be entitled to any compensation paid by the condemnor for Lessee’s relocation expenses, loss of business goodwill and/or Trade Fixtures, without regard to whether or not this Lease is terminated pursuant to the provisions of this Paragraph. All Alterations and Utility Installations made to the Premises by Lessee, for purposes of Condemnation only, shall be considered the property of the Lessee and Lessee shall be entitled to any and all compensation which is payable therefor. In the event that this Lease is not terminated by reason of the Condemnation, Lessor shall repair any damage to the Premises caused by such Condemnation.

 

15.

Reserved.

 

16.

Estoppel Cerfiticates.

(a)    Each Party (as “Responding Party”) shall within 10 days after written notice from the other Party (the “Requesfing Party”) execute, acknowledge and deliver to the Requesting Party a statement in writing in form similar to the then most current “Estoppel Cerfiticate” form published BY AIR CRE, plus such additional information, confirmation and/or statements as may be reasonably requested by the Requesting Party.

(b)    If the Responding Party shall fail to execute or deliver the Estoppel Certificate within such 10 day period, the Requesting Party may execute an Estoppel Certificate stating that: (i) the Lease is in full force and effect without modification except as may be represented by the Requesting Party, (ii) there are no uncured defaults in the Requesting Party’s performance, and (iii) if Lessor is the Requesting Party, not more than one month’s rent has been paid in advance. Prospective purchasers and encumbrancers may rely upon the Requesting Party’s Estoppel Certificate, and the Responding Party shall be estopped from denying the truth of the facts contained in said Certificate. In addition, Lessee acknowledges that any failure on its part to provide such an Estoppel Certificate will expose Lessor to risks and potentially cause Lessor to incur costs not contemplated by this Lease, the extent of which will be extremely difficult to ascertain. Accordingly, should the Lessee fail to execute and/or deliver a requested Estoppel Certificate in a timely fashion the monthly Base Rent shall be automatically increased, without any requirement for notice to Lessee, by an amount equal to 10% of the then existing Base Rent or $100, whichever is greater for remainder of the Lease. The Parties agree that such increase in Base Rent represents fair and reasonable compensation for the additional risk/costs that Lessor will incur by reason of Lessee’s failure to provide the Estoppel Certificate. Such increase in Base Rent shall in no event constitute a waiver of Lessee’s Default or Breach with respect to the failure to provide

 

LOGO      Page 12 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


the Estoppel Certificate nor prevent the exercise of any of the other rights and remedies granted hereunder.

(c)    If Lessor desires to finance, refinance, or sell the Premises, or any part thereof, Lessee and all Guarantors shall within 10 days after written notice from Lessor deliver to any potential lender or purchaser designated by Lessor such financial statements as may be reasonably required by such lender or purchaser, including but not limited to Lessee’s financial statements for the past 3 years. All such financial statements shall be received by Lessor and such lender or purchaser in confidence and shall be used only for the purposes herein set forth.

17.    Definition of Lessor. The term “Lessor” as used herein shall mean the owner or owners at the time in question of the fee title to the Premises, or, if this is a sublease, of the Lessee’s interest in the prior lease. In the event of a transfer of Lessor’s title or interest in the Premises or this Lease, Lessor shall deliver to the transferee or assignee (in cash or by credit) any unused Security Deposit held by Lessor. Upon such transfer or assignment and delivery of the Security Deposit, as aforesaid, the prior Lessor shall be relieved of all liability with respect to the obligations and/or covenants under this Lease thereafter to be performed by the Lessor. Subject to the foregoing, the obligations and/or covenants in this Lease to be performed by the Lessor shall be binding only upon the Lessor as hereinabove defined.

18.    Severability. The invalidity of any provision of this Lease, as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction, shall in no way affect the validity of any other provision hereof.

19.    Days. Unless otherwise specifically indicated to the contrary, the word “days” as used in this Lease shall mean and refer to calendar days.

20.    Limitation on Liability. The obligations of Lessor under this Lease shall not constitute personal obligations of Lessor, or its partners, members, directors, officers or shareholders, and Lessee shall look to the Premises, and to no other assets of Lessor, for the satisfaction of any liability of Lessor with respect to this Lease, and shall not seek recourse against Lessor’s partners, members, directors, officers or shareholders, or any of their personal assets for such satisfaction.

21.    Time of Essence. Time is of the essence with respect to the performance of all obligations to be performed or observed by the Parties under this Lease.

22.    No Prior or Other Agreements; Broker Disclaimer. This Lease contains all agreements between the Parties with respect to any matter mentioned herein, and no other prior or contemporaneous agreement or understanding shall be effective. Lessor and Lessee each represents and warrants to the Brokers that it has made, and is relying solely upon, its own investigation as to the nature, quality, character and financial responsibility of the other Party to this Lease and as to the use, nature, quality and character of the Premises. Brokers have no responsibility with respect thereto or with respect to any default or breach hereof by either Party.

23.    Notices.

23.1 Notice Requirements. All notices required or permitted by this Lease or applicable law shall be in writing and may be delivered in person (by hand or by courier) or may be sent by regular, certified or registered mail or U.S. Postal Service Express Mail, with postage prepaid, or by facsimile transmission, or by email, and shall be deemed sufficiently given if served in a manner specified in this Paragraph 23. The addresses noted adjacent to a Party’s signature on this Lease shall be that Party’s address for delivery or mailing of notices. Either Party may by written notice to the other specify a different address for notice, except that upon Lessee’s taking possession of the Premises, the Premises shall constitute Lessee’s address for notice. A copy of all notices to Lessor shall be concurrently transmitted to such party or parties at such addresses as Lessor may from time to time hereafter designate in writing.

23.2 Date of Notice. Any notice sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, shall be deemed given on the date of delivery shown on the receipt card, or if no delivery date is shown, the postmark thereon. If sent by regular mail the notice shall be deemed given 72 hours after the same is addressed as required herein and mailed with postage prepaid. Notices delivered by United States Express Mail or overnight courier that guarantees next day delivery shall be deemed given 24 hours after delivery of the same to the Postal Service or courier. Notices delivered by hand, or transmitted by facsimile transmission or by email shall be deemed delivered upon actual receipt. If notice is received on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday, it shall be deemed received on the next business day.

24.    Waivers.

(a)    No waiver by Lessor of the Default or Breach of any term, covenant or condition hereof by Lessee, shall be deemed a waiver of any other term, covenant or condition hereof, or of any subsequent Default or Breach by Lessee of the same or of any other term, covenant or condition hereof. Lessor’s consent to, or approval of, any act shall not be deemed to render unnecessary the obtaining of Lessor’s consent to, or approval of, any subsequent or similar act by Lessee, or be construed as the basis of an estoppel to enforce the provision or provisions of this Lease requiring such consent.

(b)    The acceptance of Rent by Lessor shall not be a waiver of any Default or Breach by Lessee. Any payment by Lessee may be accepted by Lessor on account of monies or damages due Lessor, notwithstanding any qualifying statements or conditions made by Lessee in connection therewith, which such statements and/or conditions shall be of no force or effect whatsoever unless specifically agreed to in writing by Lessor at or before the time of deposit of such payment.

(c)    THE PARTIES AGREE THAT THE TERMS OF THIS LEASE SHALL GOVERN WITH REGARD TO ALL MATTERS RELATED THERETO AND HEREBY WAIVE THE PROVISIONS OF ANY PRESENT OR FUTURE STATUTE TO THE EXTENT THAT SUCH STATUTE IS INCONSISTENT WITH THIS LEASE.

 

LOGO      Page 13 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


25.    Reserved.

26.    No Right To Holdover. Lessee has no right to retain possession of the Premises or any part thereof beyond the expiration or termination of this Lease. In the event that Lessee holds over, then the Base Rent shall be increased to 150% of the Base Rent applicable immediately preceding the expiration or termination. Holdover Base Rent shall be calculated on monthly basis. Nothing contained herein shall be construed as consent by Lessor to any holding over by Lessee.

27.    Cumulative Remedies. No remedy or election hereunder shall be deemed exclusive but shall, wherever possible, be cumulative with all other remedies at law or in equity.

28.    Covenants and Conditions; Construction of Agreement. All provisions of this Lease to be observed or performed by Lessee are both covenants and conditions. In construing this Lease, all headings and titles are for the convenience of the Parties only and shall not be considered a part of this Lease. Whenever required by the context, the singular shall include the plural and vice versa. This Lease shall not be construed as if prepared by one of the Parties, but rather according to its fair meaning as a whole, as if both Parties had prepared it.

29.    Binding Effect; Choice of Law. This Lease shall be binding upon the parties, their personal representatives, successors and assigns and be governed by the laws of the State in which the Premises are located. Any litigation between the Parties hereto concerning this Lease shall be initiated in the county in which the Premises are located.

30.    Subordination; Attornment; Non Disturbance.

30.1 Subordination. This Lease and any Option granted hereby shall be subject and subordinate to any ground lease, mortgage, deed of trust, or other hypothecation or security device (collectively, “Security Device”), now or hereafter placed upon the Premises, to any and all advances made on the security thereof, and to all renewals, modifications, and extensions thereof. Lessee agrees that the holders of any such Security Devices (in this Lease together referred to as “Lender”) shall have no liability or obligation to perform any of the obligations of Lessor under this Lease. Any Lender may elect to have this Lease and/or any Option granted hereby superior to the lien of its Security Device by giving written notice thereof to Lessee, whereupon this Lease and such Options shall be deemed prior to such Security Device, notwithstanding the relative dates of the documentation or recordation thereof.

30.2 Attornment. In the event that Lessor transfers title to the Premises, or the Premises are acquired by another upon the foreclosure or termination of a Security Device to which this Lease is subordinated (i) Lessee shall, subject to the non-disturbance provisions of Paragraph 30.3, attorn to such new owner, and upon request, enter into a new lease, containing all of the terms and provisions of this Lease, with such new owner for the remainder of the term hereof, or, at the election of the new owner, this Lease will automatically become a new lease between Lessee and such new owner, and (ii) Lessor shall thereafter be relieved of any further obligations hereunder and such new owner shall assume all of Lessor’s obligations, except that such new owner shall not: (a) be liable for any act or omission of any prior lessor or with respect to events occurring prior to acquisition of ownership; (b) be subject to any offsets or defenses which Lessee might have against any prior lessor, (c) be bound by prepayment of more than one month’s rent, or (d) be liable for the return of any security deposit paid to any prior lessor which was not paid or credited to such new owner.

30.3 Non-Disturbance. With respect to Security Devices entered into by Lessor after the execution of this Lease, Lessee’s subordination of this Lease shall be subject to receiving a commercially reasonable non-disturbance agreement (a “Non-Disturbance Agreement”) from the Lender which Non-Disturbance Agreement provides that Lessee’s possession of the Premises, and this Lease, including any options to extend the term hereof, will not be disturbed so long as Lessee is not in Breach hereof and attorns to the record owner of the Premises. Further, within 60 days after the execution of this Lease, Lessor shall, if requested by Lessee, use its commercially reasonable efforts to obtain a Non Disturbance Agreement from the holder of any pre-existing Security Device which is secured by the Premises. In the event that Lessor is unable to provide the Non-Disturbance Agreement within said 60 days, then Lessee may, at Lessee’s option, directly contact Lender and attempt to negotiate for the execution and delivery of a Non Disturbance Agreement.

30.4 Self-Executing. The agreements contained in this Paragraph 30 shall be effective without the execution of any further documents; provided, however, that, upon written request from Lessor or a Lender in connection with a sale, financing or refinancing of the Premises, Lessee and Lessor shall execute such further writings as may be reasonably required to separately document any subordination, attornment and/or Non-Disturbance Agreement provided for herein.

31.    Attorneys’ Fees. If any Party or Broker brings an action or proceeding involving the Premises whether founded in tort, contract or equity, or to declare rights hereunder, the Prevailing Party (as hereafter defined) in any such proceeding, action, or appeal thereon, shall be entitled to reasonable attorneys’ fees. Such fees may be awarded in the same suit or recovered in a separate suit, whether or not such action or proceeding is pursued to decision or judgment. The term, “Prevailing Party” shall include, without limitation, a Party or Broker who substantially obtains or defeats the relief sought, as the case may be, whether by compromise, settlement, judgment, or the abandonment by the other Party or Broker of its claim or defense. The attorneys’ fees award shall not be computed in accordance with any court fee schedule, but shall be such as to fully reimburse all attorneys’ fees reasonably incurred. In addition, Lessor shall be entitled to attorneys’ fees, costs and expenses incurred in the preparation and service of notices of Default and consultations in connection therewith, whether or not a legal action is subsequently commenced in connection with such Default or resulting Breach ($200 is a reasonable minimum per occurrence for such services and consultation).

32.    Lessor’s Access; Showing Premises; Repairs. Lessor and Lessor’s agents shall have the right to enter the Premises at any time, in the case of an emergency, and otherwise at reasonable times after reasonable prior notice for the purpose of showing the same to prospective purchasers, lenders, or tenants, and making such alterations, repairs, improvements or additions to the Premises as Lessor may deem necessary or desirable and the erecting, using and maintaining of utilities, services, pipes and conduits through the Premises and/or other premises as long as there is no material adverse effect on Lessee’s use of the Premises. All such activities shall be without abatement of rent or liability to Lessee.

33.    Auctions. Lessee shall not conduct, nor permit to be conducted, any auction upon the Premises without Lessor’s prior written consent. Lessor shall not be obligated to exercise any standard of reasonableness in determining whether to permit an auctton.

 

LOGO      Page 14 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


34.    Signs. Lessor may place on the Premises ordinary “For Sale” signs at any ttme and ordinary “For Lease” signs during the last 6 months of the term hereof. Except for ordinary “For Sublease” signs which may be placed only on the Premises, Lessee shall not place any sign upon the Project without Lessor’s prior writien consent. All signs must comply with all Applicable Requirements.

35.    Termination; Merger. Unless specifically stated otherwise in writtng by Lessor, the voluntary or other surrender of this Lease by Lessee, the mutual terminatton or cancellatton hereof, or a terminatton hereof by Lessor for Breach by Lessee, shall automattcally terminate any sublease or lesser estate in the Premises; provided, however, that Lessor may elect to conttnue any one or all existtng subtenancies. Lessor’s failure within 10 days following any such event to elect to the contrary by writien nottce to the holder of any such lesser interest, shall constttute Lessor’s electton to have such event constttute the terminatton of such interest.

36.    Consents. All requests for consent shall be in writtng. Except as otherwise provided herein, wherever in this Lease the consent of a Party is required to an act by or for the other Party, such consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. Lessor’s actual reasonable costs and expenses (including but not limited to architects’, atiorneys’, engineers’ and other consultants’ fees) incurred in the consideratton of, or response to, a request by Lessee for any Lessor consent, including but not limited to consents to an assignment, a sublettng or the presence or use of a Hazardous Substance, shall be paid by Lessee upon receipt of an invoice and supporttng documentatton therefor. Lessor’s consent to any act, assignment or sublettng shall not constttute an acknowledgment that no Default or Breach by Lessee of this Lease exists, nor shall such consent be deemed a waiver of any then existtng Default or Breach, except as may be otherwise specifically stated in writtng by Lessor at the ttme of such consent. The failure to specify herein any parttcular conditton to Lessor’s consent shall not preclude the impositton by Lessor at the ttme of consent of such further or other condittons as are then reasonable with reference to the parttcular matier for which consent is being given. In the event that either Party disagrees with any determinatton made by the other hereunder and reasonably requests the reasons for such determinatton, the determining party shall furnish its reasons in writtng and in reasonable detail within 10 business days following such request.

 

37.

Guarantor.

37.1 Execution. The Guarantors, if any, shall each execute a guaranty in the form most recently published BY AIR CRE.

37.2 Default. It shall constttute a Default of the Lessee if any Guarantor fails or refuses, upon request to provide: (a) evidence of the executton of the guaranty, including the authority of the party signing on Guarantor’s behalf to obligate Guarantor, and in the case of a corporate Guarantor, a certtfied copy of a resolutton of its board of directors authorizing the making of such guaranty, (b) current financial statements, (c) an Estoppel Certtficate, or (d) writien confirmatton that the guaranty is sttll in eftect.

38.    Quiet Possession. Subject to payment by Lessee of the Rent and performance of all of the covenants, condittons and provisions on Lessee’s part to be observed and performed under this Lease, Lessee shall have quiet possession and quiet enjoyment of the Premises during the term hereof. Lessee acknowledges that the the area adjacent to and surrounding the Project is undergoing revitalization which may result in loud construction noise and that such noise or disturbance shall not constitute and Breach or Default of this Lease by the Lessor.

39.    Options. If Lessee is granted any optton, as defined below, then the following provisions shall apply.

39.1 Definition. “Option” shall mean: (a) the right to extend or reduce the term of or renew this Lease or to extend or reduce the term of or renew any lease that Lessee has on other property of Lessor; (b) the right of first refusal or first ofter to lease either the Premises or other property of Lessor; (c) the right to purchase, the right of first ofter to purchase or the right of first refusal to purchase the Premises or other property of Lessor.

39.2 Options Personal To Original Lessee. Any Optton granted to Lessee in this Lease is personal to the original Lessee, and cannot be assigned or exercised by anyone other than said original Lessee and only while the original Lessee is in full possession of the Premises and, if requested by Lessor, with Lessee certtfying that Lessee has no intentton of thereaffer assigning or subletting.

39.3 Multiple Options. In the event that Lessee has any multtple Opttons to extend or renew this Lease, a later Optton cannot be exercised unless the prior Opttons have been validly exercised.

39.4 Effect of Default on Options.

(a)    Lessee shall have no right to exercise an Optton: (i) during the period commencing with the giving of any nottce of Default and conttnuing unttl said Default is cured, (ii) during the period of ttme any Rent is unpaid (without regard to whether nottce thereof is given Lessee), (iii) during the ttme Lessee is in Breach of this Lease, or (iv) in the event that Lessee has been given 3 or more nottces of separate Default, whether or not the Defaults are cured, during the 12 month period immediately preceding the exercise of the Optton.

(b)    The period of me within which an Optton may be exercised shall not be extended or enlarged by reason of Lessee’s inability to exercise an Optton because of the provisions of Paragraph 39.4(a).

(c)    An Optton shall terminate and be of no further force or eftect, notwithstanding Lessee’s due and ttmely exercise of the Optton, if, affer such exercise and prior to the commencement of the extended term or completton of the purchase, (i) Lessee fails to pay Rent for a period of 30 days affer such Rent becomes due (without any necessity of Lessor to give nottce thereof), or (ii) if Lessee commits a Breach of this Lease.

40.    Security Measures. Lessee hereby acknowledges that the Rent payable to Lessor hereunder does not include the cost of guard service or other security measures, and that Lessor shall have no obligatton whatsoever to provide same. Lessee assumes all responsibility for the protectton of the Premises, Lessee, its agents and invitees and their property from the acts of third parttes.

41.    Reservations. Lessor reserves the right: (i) to grant, without the consent or joinder of Lessee, such easements, rights and dedicattons that Lessor deems necessary, (ii) to cause the recordatton of parcel maps and restricttons, and (iii) to create and/or install new uttlity raceways, so long as such easements, rights, dedicattons, maps, restricttons, and uttlity raceways do not unreasonably interfere with the use of the Premises by Lessee. Lessee agrees to sign any documents reasonably requested by Lessor to eftectuate such rights.

42.    Performance Under Protest. If at any ttme a dispute shall arise as to any amount or sum of money to be paid by one Party to the other under the provisions hereof, the Party against whom the obligatton to pay the money is asserted shall have the right to make payment “under protest” and such payment shall not be regarded as a voluntary payment and there shall survive the right on the part of said Party to instttute suit for recovery of such sum. If it shall be adjudged that there was no legal obligatton on the part of said Party to pay such sum or any part thereof, said Party shall be entttled to recover such sum or so much thereof as it was not legally required to pay. A Party who does not inittate suit for the recovery of sums paid “under protest” within 6 months shall be deemed to have waived its right to protest such payment.

 

LOGO      Page 15 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


43.

Authority; Multiple Parties; Execution.

(a)    If either Party hereto is a corporation, trust, limited liability company, partnership, or similar entity, each individual executing this Lease on behalf of such entity represents and warrants that he or she is duly authorized to execute and deliver this Lease on its behalf. Each Party shall, within 30 days after request, deliver to the other Party satisfactory evidence of such authority.

(b)    If this Lease is executed by more than one person or entity as “Lessee”, each such person or entity shall be jointly and severally liable hereunder. It is agreed that any one of the named Lessees shall be empowered to execute any amendment to this Lease, or other document ancillary thereto and bind all of the named Lessees, and Lessor may rely on the same as if all of the named Lessees had executed such document.

(c)    This Lease may be executed by the Parties in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original and all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.

44.    Confiict. Any conflict between the printed provisions of this Lease and the typewritten or handwritten provisions shall be controlled by the typewritten or handwritten provisions.

45.    Offer. Preparation of this Lease by either party or their agent and submission of same to the other Party shall not be deemed an offer to lease to the other Party. This Lease is not intended to be binding until executed and delivered by all Parties hereto.

46.    Amendments. This Lease may be modified only in writing, signed by the Parties in interest at the time of the modification. As long as they do not materially change Lessee’s obligations hereunder, Lessee agrees to make such reasonable non-monetary modifications to this Lease as may be reasonably required by a Lender in connection with the obtaining of normal financing or refinancing of the Premises.

47.    Waiver of Jury Trial. THE PARTIES HEREBY WAIVE THEIR RESPECTIVE RIGHTS TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING INVOLVING THE PROPERTY OR ARISING OUT OF THIS AGREEMENT.

48.    Arbitration of Disputes. An Addendum requiring the Arbitration of all disputes between the Parties and/or Brokers arising out of this Lease ☐ is ☒ is not attached to this Lease.

 

49.

Accessibility; Americans with Disabilities Act.

(a)    The Premises:

☒ have not undergone an inspection by a Certified Access Specialist (CASp). Note: A Certified Access Specialist (CASp) can inspect the subject premises and determine whether the subject premises comply with all of the applicable construction-related accessibility standards under state law. Although state law does not require a CASp inspection of the subject premises, the commercial property owner or lessor may not prohibit the lessee or tenant from obtaining a CASp inspection of the subject premises for the occupancy or potential occupancy of the lessee or tenant, if requested by the lessee or tenant. The parties shall mutually agree on the arrangements for the time and manner of the CASp inspection, the payment of the fee for the CASp inspection, and the cost of making any repairs necessary to correct violations of construction-related accessibility standards within the premises.

☐ have undergone an inspection by a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) and it was determined that the Premises met all applicable construction-related accessibility standards pursuant to California Civil Code §55.51 et seq. Lessee acknowledges that it received a copy of the inspection report at least 48 hours prior to executing this Lease and agrees to keep such report confidential.

☐ have undergone an inspection by a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) and it was determined that the Premises did not meet all applicable construction-related accessibility standards pursuant to California Civil Code §55.51 et seq. Lessee acknowledges that it received a copy of the inspection report at least 48 hours prior to executing this Lease and agrees to keep such report confidential except as necessary to complete repairs and corrections of violations of construction related accessibility standards.

In the event that the Premises have been issued an inspection report by a CASp the Lessor shall provide a copy of the disability access inspection certificate to Lessee within 7 days of the execution of this Lease.

(b)    Since compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other state and local accessibility statutes are dependent upon Lessee’s specific use of the Premises, Lessor makes no warranty or representation as to whether or not the Premises comply with ADA or any similar legislation. In the event that Lessee’s use of the Premises requires modifications or additions to the Premises in order to be in compliance with ADA or other accessibility statutes, Lessee agrees to make any such necessary modifications and/or additions at Lessee’s expense.

LESSOR AND LESSEE HAVE CAREFULLY READ AND REVIEWED THIS LEASE AND EACH TERM AND PROVISION CONTAINED HEREIN, AND BY THE EXECUTION OF THIS LEASE SHOW THEIR INFORMED AND VOLUNTARY CONSENT THERETO. THE PARTIES HEREBY AGREE THAT, AT THE TIME THIS LEASE IS EXECUTED, THE TERMS OF THIS LEASE ARE COMMERCIALLY REASONABLE AND EFFECTUATE THE INTENT AND PURPOSE OF LESSOR AND LESSEE WITH RESPECT TO THE PREMISES.

ATTENTION: NO REPRESENTATION OR RECOMMENDATION IS MADE BY AIR CRE OR BY ANY BROKER AS TO THE LEGAL SUFFICIENCY, LEGAL EFFECT, OR TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THIS LEASE OR THE TRANSACTION TO WHICH IT RELATES. THE PARTIES ARE URGED TO:

1.    SEEK ADVICE OF COUNSEL AS TO THE LEGAL AND TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THIS LEASE.

2.    RETAIN APPROPRIATE CONSULTANTS TO REVIEW AND INVESTIGATE THE CONDITION OF THE PREMISES. SAID INVESTIGATION SHOULD INCLUDE BUT NOT BE LIMITED TO: THE POSSIBLE PRESENCE OF HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES, THE ZONING OF THE PREMISES, THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY, THE CONDITION OF THE ROOF AND OPERATING SYSTEMS, COMPLIANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT AND THE SUITABILITY OF THE PREMISES FOR LESSEE’S INTENDED USE.

WARNING: IF THE PREMISES ARE LOCATED IN A STATE OTHER THAN CALIFORNIA, CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE LEASE MAY NEED TO BE REVISED TO COMPLY WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE IN WHICH THE PREMISES ARE LOCATED.

The parties hereto have executed this Lease at the place and on the dates specified above their respective signatures.

 

Executed at: Carlsbad, California   Executed at: Carlsbad, California
On: August         , 2020   On: August         , 2020
By LESSOR:      By LESSEE:  

 

LOGO      Page 16 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


Fabric 2656 State, LLC, a California limited liability company   TYRA Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation
By:   

/s/ Brendan Foote

  By:  

/s/ Todd J. Harris

Name Printed:    Brendan Foote   Name Printed:   Todd J Harris
Title:    For the Manager CUBRE, LLC   Title:  
Phone:      Phone:  
Fax:      Fax:  
Email:      Email:  
By:   

 

  By:  

 

Name Printed:      Name Printed:  
Title:      Title:  
Phone:      Phone:  
Fax:      Fax:  
Email:      Email:  
Address:    2659 State Street, Suite 100, Carlsbad, CA 92008   Address:  
Federal ID No.:      Federal ID No.:  

AIR CRE. 500 North Brand Blvd, Suite 900, Glendale, CA 91203, Tel 213-687-8777, Email contracts@aircre.com

NOTICE: No part of these works may be reproduced in any form without permission in writng.

 

LOGO      Page 17 of 17       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       MTN-26.10, Revised 11-01-2017


LOGO

RENT ADJUSTMENT(S)

STANDARD LEASE ADDENDUM

Dated: August 5, 2020  

By and Between

    Lessor: Fabric 2656 State, LLC, a California limited liability company  

    Lessee: TYRA Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation  

Property Address: 2656 State Street, Carlsbad, California 92008  

                             (street address, city, state, zip)

Paragraph: 87

 

A.

RENT ADJUSTMENTS:

The monthly rent for each month of the adjustment period(s) specified below shall be increased using the method(s) indicated below: (Check Method(s) to be Used and Fill in Appropriately)

Consumers), for (Fill in Urban Area):                         , All Items (1982-1984 = 100), herein referred to as “CPI”.

 

LOGO      Page 1 of 2       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       RA-7.01, Revised 07-28-2017


 III.    Fixed Rental Adjustment(s) (FRA)

The Base Rent shall be increased to the following amounts on the dates set forth below:

 

On (Fill in FRA Adjustment Date(s)):    The New Base Rent shall be:
Month 13-24    $24,616.80
Month 25-36    $25,374.24
Month 37-48    $26,131.68
Month 49-60    $26,889.12
                                    
                                    
                                    
                                    
                                    

                

                   

AIR CRE. 500 North Brand Blvd, Suite 900, Glendale, CA 91203, Tel 213-687-8777, Email contracts@aircre.com

NOTICE: No part of these works may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing.

 

LOGO      Page 2 of 2       LOGO
INITIALS      Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM       INITIALS
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       RA-7.01, Revised 07-28-2017


LOGO

OPTION(S) TO EXTEND

STANDARD LEASE ADDENDUM

Dated: August 5, 2020

By and Between

    Lessor: Fabric 2656 State, LLC, a California limited liability company  

    Lessee: TYRA Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation  

Property Address: 2656 State Street, Carlsbad, California 92008  

                (street address, city, state, zip)

Paragraph: 88

 

A.

OPTION(S) TO EXTEND:

Lessor hereby grants to Lessee the option to extend the term of this Lease for two (2) additional thirty six (36) month period(s) commencing when the prior term expires upon each and all of the following terms and conditions:

(i)    In order to exercise an option to extend, Lessee must give written notice of such election to Lessor and Lessor must receive the same at least 180 days but not more than 240 days months prior to the date that the option period would commence, time being of the essence. If proper notification of the exercise of an option is not given and/or received, such option shall automatically expire. Options (if there are more than one) may only be exercised consecutively.

(ii)    The provisions of paragraph 39, including those relating to Lessee’s Default set forth in paragraph 39.4 of this Lease, are conditions of this Option.

(iii)    Except for the provisions of this Lease granting an option or options to extend the term, all of the terms and conditions of this Lease except where specifically modified by this option shall apply.

(iv)    This Option is personal to the original Lessee, and cannot be assigned or exercised by anyone other than said original Lessee and only while the original Lessee is in full possession of the Premises and without the intention of thereafter assigning or subletting.

(v)    The monthly rent for each month of the option period shall be calculated as follows, using the method(s) indicated below:

(Check Method(s) to be Used and Fill in Appropriately)

 

LOGO     LOGO        
INITIALS     INITIALS   
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM
OE-6.01, Revised 01-01-2019       Page 1 of 2


On (Fill in FRA Adjustment Date(s)):    The New Base Rent shall be:
                            
                            
                            
                            
                            
                            
                            
                            
                            

 IV.    Initial Term Adjustments

The formula used to calculate adjustments to the Base Rate during the original Term of the Lease shall continue to be used during the extended term. i.e. fixed three percent (3%) annual increases over the previous year’s Base Rent shall continue annually.

 

B.

NOTICE:

Unless specified otherwise herein, notice of any rental adjustments, other than Fixed Rental Adjustments, shall be made as specified in paragraph 23 of the Lease.

AIR CRE. 500 North Brand Blvd, Suite 900, Glendale, CA 91203, Tel 213-687-8777, Email contracts@aircre.com

NOTICE: No part of these works may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing.

 

LOGO     LOGO        
INITIALS     INITIALS   
© 2017 AIR CRE. All Rights Reserved.       Last Edited: 8/5/2020 8:49 PM
OE-6.01, Revised 01-01-2019       Page 2 of 2


EXECUTION VERSION

ADDENDUM

THIS ADDENDUM IS TO THE STANDARD INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL MULTI-TENANT LEASE NET DATED FOR REFERENCE PURPOSES ONLY AS OF AUGUST __, 2020 (THE “LEASE”) BY AND BETWEEN FABRIC 2656 STATE, LLC, A CALIFORNIA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, AS LANDLORD/LESSOR, AND TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC., A DELAWARE CORPORATION, AS TENANT/LESSEE, FOR THE PREMISES KNOWN AS 2656 STATE STREET, CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA. IN THE EVENT OF ANY CONFLICT BETWEEN THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ADDENDUM AND THOSE OF THE LEASE, THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ADDENDUM SHALL PREVAIL.

 

50.  EFFECTIVE DATE:

   The Lease shall be effective on the date of the full execution and delivery of the Lease by Lessor and Lessee (“Effective Date”).

51.  COMMENCEMENT DATE:

   The “Commencement Date” shall be the date Lessor delivers to Lessee actual possession of the Premises upon Substantial Completion of the Lessee Improvements in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Lease and the Work Letter and a certificate of occupancy is issued for the Premises.
   If Lessor fails to cause the Commencement Date for the Premises to occur on or before April 15, 2021 (the “Anticipated Delivery Date”), then Lessee shall be entitled to an abatement of Base Rent first coming due after the abatement period pursuant to Paragraph 53 of the Lease below under the Lease for one (1) day for each day that occurs after the Anticipated Delivery Date and before the Commencement Date, which such abatement shall be automatically applied to the next payment(s) of Base Rent due following the Commencement Date. If Lessor has not delivered actual possession of the Premises to Lessee by the date that is ninety (90) days after the Anticipated Delivery Date, Lessee may terminate this Lease by written notice to Lessor, whereupon this Lease shall be of no further force or effect and neither party hereto shall have any further rights, duties or liabilities hereunder other than those rights, duties and liabilities which have arisen or accrued hereunder prior to the effective date of such termination.

52.  CRITICAL MILESTONE DATES:

   (a) Acquisition of Project. The parties acknowledge that Lessor is currently in escrow to purchase the Project containing the Premises. In the event that Lessor does not acquire the Project by September 30, 2020, Lessor may terminate this Lease upon written notice to Lessee. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in the Lease, if Lessor fails to acquire the Project by November 1, 2020 (the “Outside Acquisition Date”), Lessee may terminate this Lease within sixty (60) days after the Outside Acquisition Date, provided at the time of said notice


   Lessor has not acquired the Project, by delivering written notice to Lessor and Lessee may terminate this Lease by written notice to Lessor, whereupon this Lease shall be of no further force or effect and neither party hereto shall have any further rights, duties or liabilities hereunder other than those rights, duties and liabilities which have arisen or accrued hereunder prior to the effective date of such termination. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that Lessor acquires the Project after the Outside Acquisition Date and Lessee has not delivered written notice to terminate the Lease as provided in this Paragraph 52(a), then Lessee shall have no longer have the right to terminate the Lease as provided in this Paragraph 52(a).
   (b) Receipt of TI Permit. If Lessor fails to obtain the TI Permit by December 31, 2020 (the “Outside TI Permit Date”), Lessee may terminate this Lease within sixty (60) days after the Outside TI Permit Date by delivering written notice to Lessor, whereupon this Lease shall be of no further force or effect and neither party hereto shall have any further rights, duties or liabilities hereunder other than those rights, duties and liabilities which have arisen or accrued hereunder prior to the effective date of such termination. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the event that Lessor acquires the TI Permit after the Outside TI Permit Date and Lessee has not delivered written notice to terminate the Lease as provided in this Paragraph 52(b), then Lessee shall have no longer have the right to terminate the Lease as provided in this Paragraph 52(b).
   (c) Substantial Completion. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in the Lease, (i) if for any reason Substantial Completion of the Premises has not occurred by ninety (90) days after the Anticipated Delivery Date, Lessee may terminate this Lease by written notice to Lessor, whereupon this Lease shall be of no further force or effect and neither party hereto shall have any further rights, duties or liabilities hereunder other than those rights, duties and liabilities which have arisen or accrued hereunder prior to the effective date of such termination.

53.  LEASE TERM AND ABATED BASE RENT AND COMMON AREA OPERATING EXPENSES:

   The Original Term specified in Paragraph 1.3 of the Lease shall be approximately sixty (60) months, beginning on the Commencement Date and ending on the last day of the sixtieth (60th ) full calendar month after the Commencement Date. Either party shall, at the other party’s request, execute and deliver a mutually agreeable memorandum agreement, setting forth the actual Commencement Date, Expiration Date or, if necessary, a revised rent schedule. Lessor hereby agrees to abate Lessee’s obligation to pay monthly Base Rent and Common Area

 

-2-


   Operating Expenses (but excluding utilities) for sixty (60) days after the Commencement Date. In no event shall the Base Rent and Common Area Operating Expenses (but excluding utilities) abatement provided hereunder affect Lessee’s obligation to pay any other costs, charges and expenses due under the Lease.

54.  COMMON AREA OPERATING EXPENSES:

   Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contain in the Lease, including Paragraph 4.2(a) thereof, Common Area Operating Expenses shall exclude all items set forth on Exhibit “C” attached hereto and made a part hereof. An estimated budget for calendar year 2021 Common Area Operating Expenses is attached hereto as Exhibit “D” and made a part hereof.

55.  LESSEE IMPROVEMENTS:

   Lessor and Lessee’s obligations with respect to the initial improvements in the Premises is set forth in Exhibit “B” Lease Work Letter attached hereto.

56.  CONDITION OF PREMISES:

   Paragraph 2.2 of the Lease is hereby deleted and restated in its entirety as follows:
   “2.2 Condition. As a material consideration of the Lease, and for the Lessor to lease the Premises to Lessee, Lessee agrees that except as otherwise set forth in this Lease or the exhibits hereto, no representations respecting the condition of the Premises, or promises to decorate, alter, repair or improve the Premises, either before or after the execution hereof, have been made by Lessor to Lessee. Lessor, at Lessor’s cost, shall cause all mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and heating, ventilating and air-conditioning equipment and systems serving the Premises to be in good working condition as of the Commencement Date. Lessor warrants the Premise’s mechanical, electrical, plumbing, heating and air conditioning will be brand new and in good working order prior to any Lessee occupancy and for a period of twenty-four (24) months thereafter.”

57.  COMPLIANCE:

   Paragraphs 2.3, 2.3(a), (b), and (c), inclusive, are hereby deleted and replaced in their entirety with the following:
   “2.3 Compliance. Lessor warrants that to the best of its knowledge the improvements on the Premises as of the Commencement Date comply with the building codes, applicable laws (including without limitation, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations (or its successor) and any other similar laws), covenants or restrictions of record, regulations, and ordinances (collectively, the “Applicable Requirements”) that were in effect at the time that each improvement, or portion thereof, was constructed. Lessor and Lessee shall each comply with all Applicable Requirements relating to the Premises.”

 

-3-


58.  PARKING:

   The Building contains no on-site parking. Lessor to provide Lessee with five (5) off-site, off-street, reserved parking spaces throughout the Term of the Lease. Lessee shall be responsible for paying the direct cost to secure these spaces on a monthly basis. Should the average cost per space exceed $100 per month, the overage shall be credited against Lessee’s base rent for the month. Should Lessor fail, in any month, to secure five (5) spaces on Lessee’s behalf, Base Rent for that month shall be reduced by $400 per parking space below five (5) spaces. Lessor agrees that at least one (1) space shall be located within one (1) block of the Premises, at least two (2) spaces shall be located within one and one-half (1.5) blocks of the Premises and at least two (2) spaces shall be located within three (3) blocks of the Premises. Lessee shall be responsible for any parking related signs and security measures as required.

59.  SIGNAGE:

   During the Lease Term, Lessee shall have the exclusive right, in compliance with all applicable Laws, to all signage available on or about the Premises including the Building, and may install additional signage in Lessee’s discretion, subject to Lessor’s design approval consistent with the Project’s aesthetic which will not be unreasonably conditioned, withheld or delayed. Lessor represents and warrants to Lessee that there is no declaration of covenants, conditions and restrictions, reciprocal easement agreement, party wall agreement or similar instruments governing or affecting signage use at the Project. Lessee shall maintain its signage in good condition and repair at all times. Lessee shall be responsible for the cost of permitting, installing, maintaining, repairing and removing Lessee’s signs, and for removing all of its signs or sign panels, as the case may be, at the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease, and for repairing any damage to the Building caused by such removal. For the avoidance of doubt, Lessor acknowledges and agrees that unless as otherwise provided in this Paragraph, Lessor shall have no right to install any signage in or about the Premises. The signage granted to Lessee shall be personal to the original Lessee named in the Lease (“Original Lessee”). Upon expiration or termination of the Lease or in the event Lessee violates any of the terms and conditions of this Paragraph, Lessee shall cause such sign to be removed at Lessee’s cost and Lessee shall repair and restore the exterior of the Building to its substantially same condition prior to installation of Lessee’s sign(s). Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessor shall have the right to install, at its sole cost and expense, an approximate 12” x 12” nameplate sign on the Project exterior in Lessee’s sole discretion. Lessor shall retain naming rights to the Project.

 

-4-


60.  LESSEE REPAIR, MAINTENANCE, AND REPLACEMENT OBLIGATIONS:

  

Paragraph 7.1(a) of the Lease is hereby deleted and restated in its entirety as follows:

 

“7.1 Lessee’s Obligations.

  

(a) In General. Lessee shall at all times during the Term at Lessee’s expense maintain the interior portions of the Building and all portions of the Lessee Owned Alterations and/or Utility Installations contained therein which do not constitute Lessor Repair Items in a good, clean and secure condition, excepting reasonable wear and tear, damage caused by casualty or condemnation or by the negligence or willful misconduct of Lessor. Lessee shall, at its expense, promptly repair any damage to the Premises or the Building or Project resulting from or caused by any negligence or misconduct of Lessee and, at Lessee’s election, such repair shall be completed by Lessor, at Lessee’s sole cost and expense.”

61.  LESSOR REPAIR, MAINTENANCE, AND REPLACEMENT OBLIGATIONS:

  

Paragraph 7.2 of the Lease is hereby deleted and restated in its entirety as follows:

 

“7.2 Lessor’s Obligations.

  

(a) Lessor Repair Items. Lessor, shall, at Lessor’s expense, repair, maintain and replace, in a manner consistent with that maintained by landlords of comparable buildings, the roof, foundations, exterior walls, structural elements of the Building, interior bearing walls, curtain wall, exterior glass (excluding cosmetic non-structural damage which shall be the obligation of Lessee under Paragraph 7.1(a) above) and mullions, columns, beams, Building mechanical, electrical and telephone, the base Building mechanical, electrical, life safety, plumbing, sprinkler and HVAC systems, fire sprinkler system (only to the extent required by the City of Carlsbad), and the Common Areas of the Project, walkways, parkways, driveways, landscaping, fences, landlord’s nameplate sign, utility systems serving the Common Areas and all parts thereof, and any other capital expenditures of any kind of nature (collectively, “Lessor Repair Items”). Except for matters covered by the waiver of subrogation contained in Paragraph 8.6 of the Lease, any damage caused by or repairs necessitated by any negligence or act of Lessee may be repaired by Lessor at Lessor’s option and Lessee’s expense. Lessee shall

 

-5-


   give Lessor prompt written notice (and will endeavor to give such notice within 5 business days) of discovery of the damage, of any defect or need of repairs in such components of the Building for which Lessor is responsible, after which Lessor shall have a reasonable opportunity and the right to enter the Premises at all reasonable times to repair same.
  

(b) Capital Expenditure. Without limiting Lessor Repair Items, at all times during the Lease Term, Lessor shall, at its sole cost and expense, perform all repairs, improvements and replacements that are solely “capital in nature” (each a “Capital Expenditure”), except to the extent such Capital Expenditure arises due to Lessee’s breach of its repair and maintenance obligations (in which case such Capital Repair shall, at Lessee’s election, be completed by Lessee or Lessor, and, in any event, at Lessee’s sole cost and expense). As used herein, the term “capital in nature” shall mean any expenditure that would normally be “capitalized,” as opposed to “expensed,” under US generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”); provided, however, that if GAAP does not address the specific expenditure, then the parties agree to apply sound real estate accounting and management principles to make such determination.

  

During the Option Term only, in the event that Landlord must replace any of the Capital Lab Improvements, then the cost of such replaced Capital Lab Improvement shall be amortized on a straight basis based on a 120 month useful life and Tenant shall pay its pro-rata share of such amortized costs for the remainder of the Option Term. As used herein, the “Capital Lab Improvements” individually and collectively refer to the lab improvements set forth on Exhibit “E” attached hereto and made a apart hereof.

  

(c) Abatement Event. In the event that Lessee is prevented from using, and does not use, the Premises or any portion thereof, as a result of any repair, maintenance or alteration activities performed by Lessor, under circumstances where such activities substantially interferes with Lessee’s use of the Premises, expressly excluding any damage caused by or repairs necessitated by any negligence or act of Lessee (any such set of circumstances to be known as an “Abatement Event”), then Lessee shall give Lessor notice of such Abatement Event, and if such Abatement Event continues for ten (10) business days after Lessor’s receipt of any such notice (the “Eligibility Period”), then the Base Rent and Lessee’s Share of Common Area Operating Expenses shall be abated or reduced, as the case may be, from the commencement of the Eligibility Period for such

 

-6-


   time that Lessee continues to be so prevented from using, and does not use, the Premises, or a portion thereof, in the proportion that the rentable area of the portion of the Premises that Lessee is prevented from using, and does not use (“Unusable Area”), bears to the total rentable area of the Premises; provided, however, in the event that Lessee is prevented from using, and does not use, the Unusable Area for a period of time in excess of the Eligibility Period and the remaining portion of the Premises is not sufficient to allow Lessee to effectively conduct its business therein, and if Lessee does not conduct its business from such remaining portion, then for such time from the commencement of the Eligibility Period during which Lessee is so prevented from effectively conducting its business therein, the Base Rent and Lessee’s Share of Common Area Operating Expenses for the entire Premises shall be abated for such time as Lessee continues to be so prevented from using, and does not use, the Premises. If, however, Lessee reoccupies any portion of the Premises during such period, the Rent allocable to such reoccupies portion, based on the proportion that the rentable area of such reoccupies portion of the Premises bears to the total rentable area of the Premises, shall be payable by Lessee from the date Lessee reoccupies such portion of the Premises.”

62.  JANITORIAL SERVICE:

   Lessor will be responsible for janitorial services for the Common Areas. Lessee shall be solely responsible for performing all janitorial services and other cleaning of the Premises appropriate to maintain the Premises in a manner and consistent with comparable buildings.

63.  REFUSE/TRASH:

   The Building’s trash removal contract shall be held by Lessee. Collection will occur as reasonably required for the Building and will include, without limitation, all ordinary office refuse and rubbish, bio/medical waste, “wet trash” and construction debris, and cleaning with respect thereto.

64.  HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES:

   Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in the Lease, including Paragraph 6.2 thereof, Lessee shall not be responsible for any of the cost of removing, investigating, sampling, testing, and/or remediating any Hazardous Substances (including without limitation asbestos, urea formaldehyde foam insulation, polychlorinated biphenyls and all other substances hazardous to human health) from the Premises or the Building and appurtenant land, except to the extent that such Hazardous Substances were introduced through fault of Lessee or its employees. Furthermore, notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in the Lease, Lessor agrees that Lessee may use, store and properly dispose of

 

-7-


   certain bio-waste and other laboratory chemicals and waste used in connection with Lessee’s lab operations (collectively, the “Permitted Bio-Hazards”). Lessor and Lessee acknowledge that any or all of the Permitted Bio-Hazards may constitute Hazardous Substances. Lessee may use, store and dispose of same, and Lessee shall fully comply with all Applicable Laws and the Permitted Use.
   The following is hereby added as a new Paragraph 6.2(h) of the Lease:
   “Without limitation of any other rights and remedies available to Lessee at law or in equity, Lessee shall have the option to terminate the Lease by written notice to Lessor if as a result of any Hazardous Substances which are present on or under the Premises or Building, including as a result of any Hazardous Substances which may migrate onto or under the Premises and the Building from other properties, except to the extent that such Hazardous Substances were introduced through fault of Lessee or its employees (i) Lessee’s use is materially impaired as to ten percent (10%) or more of the Building, (ii) the Building is rendered physically unusable for the ordinary conduct of Lessee’s business for a period of ninety (90) consecutive days or more, or (iii) any governmental or quasi-governmental agency issues an order to Lessor or Lessee which requires Lessee to vacate ten percent (10%) or more of the Building for ninety (90) consecutive days or more. To exercise the foregoing termination option, Lessee must provide Lessor with written notice of such termination by the earlier of (a) the cessation of the interfering event, or (b) upon Lessee’s determination that the interfering event will last longer than ninety (90) days.”

65.  LESSOR’S INDEMNIFICATION REGARDING HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES:

  

Paragraph 6.2(e) of the Lease is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:

 

“(e) Lessor Indemnification. Lessor shall, at Lessor’s sole cost (without reimbursement as an Common Area Operating Expense or otherwise), comply with all applicable Laws pertaining to, and shall indemnify, defend and hold Lessee harmless from, any claims, liabilities, costs or expenses incurred or suffered by Lessee arising from: (i) the existence of Hazardous Substances in, on, around or under the Premises and Building (other than and to the extent of Hazardous Substances brought thereon by Lessee), (ii) Hazardous Substances which may migrate into, onto or under the Premises and Building from other properties after the Commencement Date, and (iii) the bringing, using,

 

-8-


   permitting, generating, emitting or disposing of Hazardous Substances in violation of applicable Law by Lessor or any of Lessor’s agents, employees, contractors, suppliers or invitees on, in or under the Premises and Building or through the soils of or under the Premises and Building during the Term. Lessor’s indemnification and hold harmless obligations include, without limitation, the following: (i) claims, liability, costs or expenses resulting from or based upon administrative, judicial (civil or criminal) or other action, legal or equitable, brought by any private or public person under common law or under applicable Law, (ii) claims, liabilities, costs or expenses pertaining to the identification, monitoring, cleanup, containment, or removal of Hazardous Substances from soils, riverbeds or aquifers including the provision of an alternative public drinking water source, and (iii) all costs of defending such claims. The foregoing obligations of Lessor shall survive the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease.”

66.  DAMAGE OR DESTRUCTION:

   Paragraphs 9.1 through and including 9.7, inclusive, of the Lease are hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:
   “9. Damage or Destruction.
   (a) Lessor covenants and agrees that in case of damage or destruction of the Premises, Building or any other improvements on or after the Commencement Date by fire, casualty or otherwise, Lessor shall promptly restore, repair, replace and rebuild the Premises and/or Building as nearly as possible to the condition that the same were in immediately prior to such damage or destruction. Such restoration, repairs, replacements, rebuilding, changes and alterations, including the cost of temporary repairs for the protection of the Building, or any portion thereof, pending completion thereof are sometimes hereinafter referred to as the “Restoration.” All insurance monies payable on account of such damage or destruction shall be applied to the payment of the costs of the Restoration. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein contained, if (i) the Restoration is not, in any event, completed within one hundred eighty (180) days after the date of damage, destruction or other casualty or (ii) the Completion Estimate (as defined below) indicates that the Restoration cannot be completed within one hundred eighty (180) days after the date of casualty, Lessee shall have the right to terminate this Lease, in the case of subsection (i), upon thirty (30) days prior written notice delivered to Lessor prior to the date the Restoration is completed and, in the case of subsection (ii), by written notice delivered to Lessor within thirty (30) days following Lessee’s receipt of the Completion Estimate. Upon completion of the Restoration, Lessor shall be entitled to any insurance monies then remaining.

 

-9-


   (b) From and after any destruction of or damage to the Building or any portion thereof, by fire, casualty or otherwise, which results in the inability of Lessee to conduct its business, in whole or in material part, at the Premises, all Rent and all other charges payable by Lessee hereunder shall abate from the date of such suspension of business until the earlier of (a) the date such business is resumed, or (b) the completion of Restoration; and in connection therewith, if the Building is damaged in part but Lessee elects to continue to conduct its business therein, the Rent shall abate and be diminished in proportion to that part of the Premises which is rendered unusable.
   (c) If all or any portion of the Premises is damaged as a result of fire, casualty or otherwise, Lessor shall, with reasonable promptness, cause an architect or general contractor selected by Lessor to provide Lessor and Lessee with a written estimate of the amount of time required to substantially complete the repair and restoration of the Premises, using standard working methods (“Completion Estimate”). If the Completion Estimate indicates that the Premises cannot be made tenantable within one hundred eighty (180) days from the date of damage, then either Party shall have the right to terminate this Lease by giving written notice to the other of such election within thirty (30) days after receipt of the Completion Estimate. Lessee, however, shall not have the right to terminate this Lease if the fire or casualty was caused by the negligence or conduct of Lessee or its employees.”

67.  LESSEE DEFAULT:

   Paragraph 13.1 of the Lease is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:
   “13.1 Default; Breach. A “Default” is defined as a failure by the Lessee to comply with or perform any of the terms, covenants, conditions or Rules and Regulations under this Lease. A “Breach” is defined as the occurrence of one or more of the following Defaults, and the failure of Lessee to cure such Default within any applicable grace period: (i) any failure by Lessee to pay rent or to make any other payment required to be made by Lessee hereunder, where such failure continues for three (3) days after Lessee’s receipt of written notice of such delinquency from Lessor; (ii) a failure by Lessee to observe and perform any other provision of this Lease to be observed or performed by Lessee, where such failure continues for twenty (20) days after Lessee’s

 

-10-


   receipt of written notice thereof from Lessor; provided, that if the nature of the default is such that it cannot reasonably be cured within such 20-day period, Lessee shall not be deemed to be in default if Lessee commences within such period to cure the default and thereafter diligently prosecutes the cure to completion; (iii) the making by Lessee of any general assignment for the benefit of creditors or the filing by or against Lessee of a petition to have Lessee adjudged bankrupt or of a petition for reorganization or arrangement under any Laws relating to bankruptcy (unless, in the case of a petition filed against Lessee, the same is dismissed within thirty (30) days after the filing); (iv) the appointment of a trustee or receiver to take possession of substantially all of Lessee’s assets located at the Premises or of Lessee’s interest in this Lease, where possession is not restored to Lessee within thirty (30) days; (v) the attachment, execution or other judicial seizure of substantially all of Lessee’s assets located at the Premises or of Lessee’s interest in this Lease, where such seizure is not discharged within thirty(30) days; or (vi) Abandonment (as defined in California Civil Code Paragraph 1951.3) of the Premises by Lessee coupled with a failure to pay rent. The notice requirements set forth herein are in lieu of and not in addition to the notices required by applicable Laws, provided that such notices are given in the manner required by such statute.”

68.  LESSOR REMEDIES:

   Paragraph 13.2 of the Lease is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:
   “13.2 Remedies. Upon Breach of this Lease by Lessee, Lessor shall have the option to pursue any one or more of the following remedies:
  

(a) Terminate this Lease, in which event Lessee shall immediately surrender the Premises to Lessor, and if Lessee fails to do so, Lessor may, without prejudice to any other remedy which it may have for possession or arrearages in rent, enter upon and take possession of the Premises and expel or remove Lessee and any other person who may be occupying the Premises or any part thereof, without being liable for prosecution or any claim for damages therefor; and Lessor may recover from Lessee the following:

  

(i) The worth at the time of award of any unpaid rent which has been earned at the time of such termination; plus

 

-11-


  

(ii) The worth at the time of award of the amount by which the unpaid rent which would have been earned after termination until the time of award exceeds the amount of such rental loss that Lessee proves could have been reasonably avoided; plus

  

(iii) Subject to California Civil Code Paragraph 1951.2(c), the worth at the time of award of the amount by which the unpaid rent for the balance of the Lease Term after the time of award exceeds the amount of such rental loss that Lessee proves could have been reasonably avoided; plus

  

(iv) Any other amount necessary to compensate Lessor for all the detriment caused by Lessee’s failure to perform its obligations under this Lease or which in the ordinary course of things would be likely to result therefrom.

   The term “rent” as used in this Paragraph 13.2 shall be deemed to be and to mean all sums of every nature required to be paid by Lessee pursuant to the terms of this Lease to Lessor. As used in Paragraphs 13.2(a)(i) and 13.2(a)(ii), above, the “worth at the time of award” shall be eight percent (8%) per year (the “Interest Rate”), compounded annually, but in no case greater than the maximum amount of such interest permitted by law.
  

(b) Lessor shall have the remedy described in California Civil Code Paragraph 1951.4 (lessor may continue lease in effect after lessee’s breach and abandonment and recover rent as it becomes due, if lessee has the right to sublet or assign, subject only to reasonable limitations). Accordingly, if Lessor does not elect to terminate this Lease on account of any default by Lessee, Lessor may, from time to time, without terminating this Lease, enforce all of its rights and remedies under this Lease, including the right to recover all rent as it becomes due.”

69.  INDUCEMENT RECAPTURE:

   Paragraph 13.3 of the Lease is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:
   “13.3 Inducement Recapture. As used herein, the “Inducements” mean Lessor’s agreement to provide Lessee with abated rent (but not including any abated rent provided to Lessee as a result of Lessor’s failure to deliver the Premises by the Anticipated Delivery Date) for the first two (2) months after the Commencement Date and the cost of tenant improvements for Lessee paid for or performed by Lessor, up to a maximum of $250,000. The Inducements have been provided to Lessee are conditioned upon Lessee’s performance of all of the terms, and conditions and covenants hereunder collectively, “Inducement Provisions”). Upon the occurrence of a Breach within the first sixty (60) months after the Commencement Date under this

 

-12-


   Lease by Lessee, the remaining unamortized portion of amount of the Inducements given or paid by Lessor under the Inducement Provisions shall be added to Base Rent for the remaining term and amortized over the remaining Term of this Lease; provided, that the Inducement Provisions shall be automatically deleted from this Lease and be of no further force and effect on the sixty- first (61st ) month after the Commencement Date. As of the Commencement Date, the total amount of Inducements shall be deemed to equal $250,000, and such Inducement amount shall automatically be reduced each month by $4,166.67 during the Term.”

70.  LATE CHARGES:

   Paragraph 13.4 of the Lease is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:
   “13.4 Late Charges. Lessee hereby acknowledges that late payment by Lessee of Rent will cause Lessor to incur costs not contemplated by this Lease, the exact amount of which will be extremely difficult to ascertain. Such costs include, but are not limited to, processing and accounting charges, and late charges which may be imposed upon Lessor by any Lender. Accordingly, if any Rent shall not be received by Lessor within by the due date, then, without any requirement for notice to Lessee, Lessee shall promptly pay to Lessor a one-time late charge equal to eight percent (8%) of each such overdue amount or $100, whichever is greater; provided, however, with regard to the first such failure during any consecutive twelve (12) calendar month period, Lessor will waive such late charge to the extent Lessee cures such failure within two(2) business days following Lessee’s receipt of written notice from Lessor that the same was not received when due. The parties hereby agree that such late charge represents a fair and reasonable estimate of the costs Lessor will incur by reason of such late payment. Acceptance of such late charge by Lessor shall in no event constitute a waiver of Lessee’s Default or Breach with respect to such overdue amount, nor prevent the exercise of any of the other rights and remedies granted hereunder.”

71.  INTEREST:

   Paragraph 13.5 of the Lease is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:
   “13.5 Interest. Any monetary payment due Lessor hereunder, other than late charges, not received by Lessor, when due shall bear interest from the due date. The interest (“Interest”) charged shall be eight percent (8%); provided, however, with regard to the first such failure during any consecutive twelve (12) calendar

 

-13-


   month period, Lessor will waive such interest to the extent Lessee cures such failure within two (2) business days following Lessee’s receipt of written notice from Lessor that the same was not received when due. Interest is payable in addition to the potential late charge provided for in Paragraph 13.4.”

72.  LESSOR’S DEFAULT:

   Paragraph 13.6 of the Lease is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:
   “13.6 Breach by Lessor. If Lessor fails to perform any of its obligations, covenants or agreements under this Lease, Lessee shall give Lessor written notice of such failure and shall give Lessor a reasonable time (as defined below) to cure such failure prior to any claim for breach or resultant damages. For purposes of this paragraph, a “reasonable time” shall mean the earlier of (a) fifteen (15) days after Lessor’s receipt of written notice from Lessee stating Lessor’s failure, if the failure to immediately cure such default is not likely to result in imminent damage to property, harm or injury to persons, or a material interference with Lessee’s ability to use the Premises for the Permitted Use; provided, however, that if such default cannot reasonably be cured within such 15-day period, then Lessor shall not be deemed in default if it commences within such period to cure and thereafter diligently prosecutes the same to completion, (b) five (5) days after Lessor’s receipt of written notice from Lessee stating Lessor’s failure has resulted in material interference with Lessee’s ability to use the Premises for the Permitted Use; provided, however, that if such failure cannot reasonably be cured within such 5-day period, then Lessor shall not be deemed in default if it commences within such period to cure and thereafter diligently prosecutes the same to completion, and (c) as soon as reasonably possible if the failure to immediately cure such default is likely to result in imminent damage to property or harm or injury to persons. If Lessor fails to cure any Lessor’s default within the applicable notice and cure periods, then, in addition to its other rights and remedies, Lessee shall have the right to cure Lessor’s default and to recover from Lessor the cost of the cure together with interest thereon at the Interest Rate from the date of such payment was due from Lessor until the date of the repayment. If Lessor fails to reimburse Lessee for all such amounts within thirty (30) days after Lessee’s request for the same, Lessee shall have the right to offset all such undisputed amounts against Rent.”

 

-14-


73.  ADDITIONAL PERMITTED TRANSFERS:

   Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in the Lease, including Paragraph 12 thereof, Lessee may, without Lessor’s prior consent transfer or assign this Lease to (each of the following of which shall be referred to in this Lease as a “Permitted Transfer”): (i) a subsidiary, parent, affiliate, division or corporation controlled by or under common control with Lessee (each, a “Lessee Affiliate”); (ii) a successor corporation related to Lessee by merger, consolidation, non-bankruptcy reorganization, or government action; or (iii) a purchaser of all or substantially all of Lessee’s assets (each, a “Permitted Transferee”); provided however, that if such Permitted Transferee cannot procure an equal letter of credit as Lessee prior to such transfer or assignment, the Letter of Credit of Lessee must and shall remain in full force and effect for the entire term of the Lease or until the Permitted Transferee is able to procure an equal Letter of Credit. For the purposes of the Lease, the following shall not be deemed an assignment or sublease of the Premises and thus may occur without the prior consent of Lessor: (1) any public or private offering of Lessee’s capital stock or the sale of Lessee’s capital stock through any public exchange, (2) Lessee’s use at the Premises of independent contractors or (3) the use or occupancy of the Premises or any portion thereof by any subsidiary, parent, contractor or Lessee Affiliate. Notwithstanding the foregoing, prior to an attempted Permitted Transfer, Lessee must notify Lessor of any such assignment or transfer prior to the effective date thereof and promptly provide Lessor with any documents or information reasonably requested by Lessor regarding such assignment or sublease to such Lessee Affiliate or Permitted Transferee.
74. CONDEMNATION:    The first two sentences of Paragraph 14 of the Lease are hereby deleted and replaced in their entirety with the following:
   “If the Premises or any portion thereof are taken under the power of eminent domain or sold under the threat of the exercise of said power (collectively “Condemnation”), this Lease shall terminate as to the part taken as of the date the condemning authority takes title or possession, whichever first occurs. If (a) more than 10% of the floor area of the Premises is taken by Condemnation, or (b) the remaining space unaffected by the taking or condemnation is not reasonably suitable for Lessee’s use or the conduct of Lessee’s business, as determined in Lessee’s reasonable discretion, Lessee may, at Lessee’s option, to be exercised in writing within 30 days after Lessor shall have given Lessee written notice of such taking (or in the absence of such notice, within 30 days after the condemning authority shall have taken possession) terminate this Lease as of the date the condemning authority takes such possession.”

 

-15-


75. ESTOPPELS CERTIFICATES:    Paragraph 16 of the Lease is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:
   “16. Estoppel Certificates. Each Party shall at any time during the Term, upon not less than ten (10) business days’ prior written notice from the other Party, execute and deliver a statement in writing certifying (i) that this Lease is unmodified and in full force and effect (or, if modified, stating the nature of such modification); (ii) the date to which any rent and other charges have been paid in advance; (iii) that there are not, to the Party’s knowledge, any uncured defaults on the part of the other Party hereunder or specifying such defaults if they are claimed; and (iv) such other matters as may be reasonably required by the requesting Party. Any such estoppel certificate and any additional certifications requested shall otherwise be in a form reasonably acceptable to the Party executing the same.”
76. LIMITATION ON LIABILITY:    The following is hereby added immediately after the end of Paragraph 20 of the Lease:
   “NOTWITHSTANDING ANYTHING TO THE CONTRARY IN THE LEASE, IN NO EVENT SHALL EITHER LESSOR (AND LESSOR PARTIES) OR LESSEE (AND LESSEE PARTIES) HAVE ANY LIABILITY TO THE OTHER FOR ANY CLAIMS BASED ON INTERRUPTION TO, OR LOSS OF, BUSINESS, OR FOR ANY INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES OR FOR ANY OTHER SPECIAL DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, AND EACH PARTY WAIVES THE RIGHT TO THE SAME TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW.”
77. WAIVERS.    Paragraph 24 of the Lease is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:
   “24. Waivers. The waiver by Lessor or Lessee of any breach of any term, covenant or condition herein contained shall not be deemed to be a waiver of such term, covenant or condition or any subsequent breach of the same or any other term, covenant or condition herein contained. The subsequent acceptance of any sum by a Party (or the payment thereof by the other Party) shall not be deemed to be a waiver by the accepting Party of any preceding breach of this Lease by the other Party of any term, covenant or condition of this Lease, other than the failure of such Party to pay the particular sum accepted, regardless of the

 

-16-


   accepting Party’s knowledge of such preceding breach at the time of acceptance of such sum. No payment by Lessee or receipt by Lessor of a lesser amount than any installment of rent due shall be deemed as other than payment on account of the amount due. No delay or omission in the exercise of any right or remedy by either Party shall impair such right or remedy or be construed as a waiver thereof by such Party. A Party’s consent to or approval of any act by the other Party which requires the first (1st) Party’s consent or approval shall not be deemed to waive or render unnecessary the first (1st) Party’s consent to or approval of any subsequent act by the other Party.”
78. OPTIONS:    Paragraph 39.2 of the Lease is hereby deleted in its entirety.
79. NO OUTSIDE WORK/STORAGE:    No work by Lessee shall be permitted on the Common Areas, including patios, sidewalks, roofs, streets, driveways, or landscaped areas without Lessor permission. This prohibition includes, but it not limited to, construction, mechanical work, painting, drying, layout, cleaning, or repair of goods or materials. No storage will be allowed outside the Building, on any of the Common Areas, including patios, sidewalks, roofs, streets, driveways, or landscaped areas without Lessor permission. This includes, but it not limited to supplies, materials, goods, pallets dunnage and equipment. Lessor shall have no responsibility whatsoever for theft or vandalism of materials located inside or outside the Premises.
80. USE OF PREMISES    Lessor and Lessee agrees the agreed upon use for the Premise is office with an accessory biology research laboratory. The biology research laboratory shall at all times be an accessory use only and shall not exceed the greater of either forty percent (40%) of the Premises square footage or the maximum laboratory space permitted by applicable law to qualify under office as the primary use designation. Furthermore, Lessee shall not, without Lessor’s prior written consent, modify the research lab to such a point in which the lab safety level designation is increased beyond its current biosafety level designation of BSL-2+. Lessor represents and warrants to Lessee that the City of Carlsbad Head of Planning, Don Neu, has authorized the use of the Premises as an office with an accessory biology research laboratory through written correspondence with Lessor and Lessor’s consultants.
81. DELIVERIES:    Lessee shall complete, or cause to be complete, all deliveries, loading, unloading and services to the Premises during regular business hours of 7:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. Monday through Saturday.

 

-17-


82. SURRENDER OF PREMISES:    Upon the expiration or earlier termination of this Lease, Lessee shall (i) surrender the Premises (which for avoidance of doubt included a clean Phase 1 environmental study upon the Effective Date, a copy of which was provided to Lessee) to Lessor in good condition and repair, broom clean, excepting reasonable wear and tear, damage caused by casualty or condemnation and (ii) at Lessee’s sole cost and expense, remove any and all alterations made by Lessee which are designated by Lessor to be removed at the end of the term at the time such alteration was made in accordance with Paragraph 7.9(b) of the Lease. If the Premises are damaged as a result of the removal of Lessee’s personal property or its merchandise, or otherwise resulting from Lessee’s vacation of the Premises, Lessee shall promptly pay to Lessor the actual cost of repair. Lessee shall complete such removal by the time provided in the first sentence of this Paragraph, or Lessor may, at Lessor’s option, retain any or all of Lessee’s personal property and title thereto shall thereupon vest in Lessor without the execution of documents of sale by Lessee, subject to applicable governmental requirements. Thereafter, Lessor may remove any or all items of Lessee’s property from the Premises and dispose of them in any manner Lessor sees fit, subject to applicable governmental requirements. In that event, Lessee shall promptly pay to Lessor the actual expenses of removal and disposition.
83. BROKERS:    Each party hereby warrants and represents to the other party that there are no real estate commissions due any broker, agent or other party in connection with the negotiation or execution of this Lease acting for or on behalf of such party and each party hereby agrees to indemnify, protect, defend and hold harmless the other party from and against any and all costs, expenses, liabilities, causes of action, claims or suits in connection with compensation, commissions, fees or other sums claimed to be due and owing to any party with respect to the negotiations or execution of this Lease.
84. LETTER OF CREDIT; SECURITY DEPOSIT RECAPTURE    Upon the Effective Date, Lessee shall deliver to Lessor a clean, irrevocable letter of credit (the “Letter of Credit”) established in Lessor’s (and its successors’ and assigns’) favor in the Letter of Credit Amount (as defined below), issued by a federally insured banking or lending institution (i.e., insured by the FDIC) with a retail banking branch located within San Diego County reasonably acceptable to Lessor and in other form and substance reasonably acceptable to Lessor. The Letter of Credit shall

 

-18-


   specifically provide for partial draws, shall be self-renewing annually as an “Evergreen” letter of credit, without amendment, for additional one-year periods, shall have a term that is self-renewing until sixty (60) days after the expiration of the Term of the Lease and shall by its terms be transferable by the beneficiary thereunder with any transfer fee payable by Lessee. If Lessee Breaches this Agreement, beyond any applicable notice and cure period, Lessor, at Lessor’s option, may make a demand for payment under the Letter of Credit in an amount equal to the amounts then due and owing to Lessor under the Lease. In the event that Lessor draws upon the Letter of Credit, Lessee shall present to Lessor a replacement Letter of Credit in the full Letter of Credit Amount satisfying all of the terms and conditions of this Paragraph within twenty (20) days after receipt of notice from Lessor of such draw. In the event that the Letter of Credit is terminated by the issuer thereof prior to the date that is sixty (60) days after the expiration date of this Lease, as set forth above, and Lessee has not presented to Lessor a replacement Letter of Credit which complies with the terms and conditions of the Lease on or before thirty (30) days prior to the expiration date of any such Letter of Credit then held by Lessor, then Lessee shall be deemed in default hereunder and Lessor, in addition to all other rights and remedies provided for hereunder, shall have the right to draw upon the Letter of Credit then held by Lessor. If Lessor liquidates the Letter of Credit, Lessor shall hold the funds received from the Letter of Credit as security for Lessee’s performance under this Lease, this Paragraph shall be deemed a security agreement for such purposes and for purposes of Division 9 of the California Uniform Commercial Code, Lessor shall be deemed to hold a perfected, first priority security interest in such funds, and Lessee does hereby authorize Lessor to file such financing statements or other instruments as Lessor shall deem advisable to further evidence and/or perfect such security interest. Lessor shall be required to segregate such security deposit from its other funds and no interest shall accrue or be payable to Lessee with respect thereto.
   The initial Letter of Credit Amount shall be $243,333. Provided Lessee is not then in active Default or Breach of the Lease and has not been in Breach on more than one (1) prior instance under the Lease, upon the 31st month of the Original Term of the Lease, the Letter of Credit Amount shall be reduced to $127,818 and Lessee’s Security Deposit shall be applied to Rent and there shall be no further Security Deposit requirements for the remainder of the Term. Notwithstanding the foregoing, should Lessee subsequently Default or Breach the Lease, the Security Deposit shall be reinstated and paid to Lessor the Letter of Credit Amount shall at all times equal the Rent remaining for the Term of the Lease.

 

-19-


   The Letter of Credit shall provide that Lessor, its successors and assigns, may, at any time and without notice to Lessee and without first obtaining Lessee’s consent thereto, transfer (one or more times) all or any portion of its interest in and to the Letter of Credit to Lessor’s lender or a subsequent owner of the Building. In the event of a transfer of Lessor’s interest in the Building, Lessor shall transfer the Letter of Credit, in whole or in part, to the transferee and thereupon Lessor shall, without any further agreement between the parties, be released by Lessee from all liability therefor arising after such transfer, and it is agreed that the provisions hereof shall apply to every transfer or assignment of the whole or any portion of said Letter of Credit to a new Lessor. In connection with any such transfer of the Letter of Credit by Lessor, Lessee shall, at Lessee’s sole cost and expense, execute and submit to the bank such applications, documents and instruments as may be necessary to effectuate such transfer, and Lessee shall be responsible for paying the bank’s transfer and processing fees in connection therewith.
85. WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL:    Paragraph 47 of the Lease is hereby deleted and replaced in its entirety with the following:
   “47. Waiver of Jury Trial. THE PARTIES HEREBY WAIVE, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, THE RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LITIGATION ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS LEASE. IF THE JURY WAIVER PROVISIONS OF THIS PARAGRAPH 47 ARE NOT ENFORCEABLE UNDER CALIFORNIA LAW, THEN PARAGRAPH 47(a) SHALL APPLY.
  

47(a). Judicial Reference. It is the desire and intention of the Parties to agree upon a mechanism and procedure under which controversies and disputes arising out of this Lease or related to the Premises will be resolved in a prompt and expeditious manner. Accordingly, any action, proceeding or counterclaim brought by either Party hereto against the other (and/or against its officers, directors, employees, agents or subsidiaries or affiliated entities) on any matters whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with this Lease, Lessee’s use or occupancy of the Premises and/or any claim of injury or damage, whether sounding in contract, tort, or otherwise, shall be heard and resolved by a referee under the provisions of the California Code of Civil Procedure, Paragraphs 638-645.1,

 

-20-


   inclusive (as same may be amended, or any successor statute(s) thereto) (the “Referee Paragraphs”). Any fee to initiate the judicial reference proceedings and all fees charged and costs incurred by the referee shall be paid by the Party initiating such procedure (except that if a reporter is requested by either Party, then a reporter shall be present at all proceedings where requested and the fees of such reporter – except for copies ordered by the other Parties – shall be borne by the Party requesting the reporter); provided, that the allocation of the costs and fees, including any initiation fee, of such proceeding shall be ultimately determined in accordance with Paragraph 31. The venue of the proceedings shall be as set forth in Paragraph 29. Within ten (10) days of receipt by any Party of a written request to resolve any dispute or controversy pursuant to this Paragraph, the Parties shall agree upon a single referee who shall try all issues, whether of fact or law, and report a finding and judgment on such issues as required by the Referee Paragraphs. If the Parties are unable to agree upon a referee within such 10-day period, then any Party may thereafter file a lawsuit in the county in which the Premises are located for the purpose of appointment of a referee under the Referee Paragraphs. If the referee is appointed by the court, the referee shall be a neutral and impartial retired judge with substantial experience in the relevant matters to be determined, from Jams/Endispute, Inc., the American Arbitration Association or similar mediation/arbitration entity. The proposed referee may be challenged by any Party for any of the grounds listed in the Referee Paragraphs. The referee shall have the power to decide all issues of fact and law and report his or her decision on such issues, and to issue all recognized remedies available at law or in equity for any cause of action that is before the referee, including an award of attorneys’ fees and costs in accordance with this Lease. The referee shall not, however, have the power to award punitive damages, nor any other damages which are not permitted by the express provisions of this Lease, and the Parties hereby waive any right to recover any such damages. The Parties shall be entitled to conduct all discovery as provided in the California Code of Civil Procedure, and the referee shall oversee discovery and may enforce all discovery orders in the same manner as any trial court judge, with rights to regulate discovery and to issue and enforce subpoenas, protective orders and other limitations on discovery available under California law. The reference proceeding shall be conducted in accordance with California law (including the rules of evidence), and in all regards, the referee shall follow California law applicable at the time of the reference proceeding. The Parties shall promptly and diligently cooperate with one

 

-21-


   another and the referee, and shall perform such acts as may be necessary to obtain a prompt and expeditious resolution of the dispute or controversy in accordance with the terms of this Paragraph. In this regard, the Parties agree that the Parties and the referee shall use best efforts to ensure that (i) discovery be conducted for a period no longer than six (6) months from the date the referee is appointed, excluding motions regarding discovery, and (ii) a trial date be set within nine (9) months of the date the referee is appointed. In accordance with Paragraph 644 of the California Code of Civil Procedure, the decision of the referee upon the whole issue must stand as the decision of the court, and upon the filing of the statement of decision with the clerk of the court, or with the judge if there is no clerk, judgment may be entered thereon in the same manner as if the action had been tried by the court. Any decision of the referee and/or judgment or other order entered thereon shall be appealable to the same extent and in the same manner that such decision, judgment, or order would be appealable if rendered by a judge of the superior court in which venue is proper hereunder. The referee shall in his/her statement of decision set forth his/her findings of fact and conclusions of law. The Parties intend this general reference agreement to be specifically enforceable in accordance with the Code of Civil Procedure. Nothing in this Paragraph shall prejudice the right of any Party to obtain provisional relief or other equitable remedies from a court of competent jurisdiction as shall otherwise be available under the Code of Civil Procedure and/or applicable court rules.”
86. COUNTERPARTS:    This Addendum may be executed in multiple counterparts, each of which is to be deemed original for all purposes, but all of which together will constitute one and the same instrument.

INTENTIONALLY BLANK – SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS

 

-22-


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Addendum as of the Effective Date.

 

LESSOR:

FABRIC 2656 STATE, LLC,

a California limited liability company

By:  

/s/ Brendan Foote

Name: Brendan Foote
Title: Managing Member
LESSEE:

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.,

a Delaware corporation

By:  

/s/ Todd J Harris

Name: Todd J Harris
Title: CEO


EXHIBIT “A”

SITE PLAN DEPICTING PREMISES

The parties shall attach the final Site Plan depicting the Premises upon completion of the Lessee Improvements in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Lease. The proposed Space Plan of the interior of the Premises is attached as Schedule 1 to the Work Letter attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

Ex. ”A” - 1


EXHIBIT “B”

LEASE WORK LETTER

This Lease Work Letter shall set forth the terms and conditions relating to the construction of the Premises. This Lessee Work Letter is essentially organized chronologically and addresses the issues of the construction of the Premises, in sequence, as such issues will arise during the actual construction of the Premises. All references in this Lessee Work Letter to “the Lease” shall mean the relevant portions of the Lease to which this Lessee Work Letter is attached as Addendum Exhibit

“B”.

1. General Requirements.

(a) Lessee’s Authorized Representative. Lessee designates Daniel Benson, Esther van den Boom and/or Todd Harris (either such individual acting alone, “Lessee’s Representative”) as the only persons authorized to act for Lessee pursuant to this Work Letter. Lessor shall not be obligated to respond to or act upon any request, approval, inquiry or other communication (“Communication”) from or on behalf of Lessee in connection with this Work Letter unless such Communication is in writing from Lessee’s Representative. Lessee may change either Lessee’s Representative at any time upon not less than 5 business days advance written notice to Lessor. Neither Lessee nor Lessee’s Representative shall be authorized to direct Lessor’s contractors in the performance of Lessor’s Work (as hereinafter defined).

(b) Lessor’s Authorized Representative. Lessor designates Brendan Foote and Curtis Clave (either such individual acting alone, “Lessor’s Representative”) as the only persons authorized to act for Lessor pursuant to this Work Letter. Lessee shall not be obligated to respond to or act upon any request, approval, inquiry or other Communication from or on behalf of Lessor in connection with this Work Letter unless such Communication is in writing from Lessor’s Representative. Lessor may change either Lessor’s Representative at any time upon not less than 5 business days advance written notice to Lessee. Lessor’s Representative shall be the sole persons authorized to direct Lessor’s contractors in the performance of Lessor’s Work.

(c) Architects, Consultants and Contractors. Lessor and Lessee hereby acknowledge and agree that: (i) the general contractor and any subcontractors for the Lessee Improvements shall be selected by Lessor, subject to Lessee’s approval, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed, and (ii) Greg Coleman shall be the architect (the “TI Architect”) for the Lessee Improvements. In addition, the parties agree that Kimberly Krenek shall be the consulting architect for the laboratory portion of the Premises and CLTVT shall be the general contractor.

 

  2.

Lessee Improvements.

(a) Lessee Improvements Defined. As used herein, “Lessee Improvements” shall mean all improvements to the Premises of a fixed and permanent nature as shown on the TI Construction Drawings, as defined in Paragraph 2(c) below.    

(b) Space Plan and Budget. Lessor and Lessee acknowledge and agree that the current plan and estimated budget are attached hereto as Schedule 1 (the “Proposed Space Plan and Budget”). Lessor and Lessee acknowledge and agree to work in good faith to refine, update and/or modify the Proposed Space Plan and Budget. Upon approval of the final plan and budget by both Lessor and Lessee (such approved plan and budget is referred to herein as the, “Space Plan and Budget”).

(c) Working Drawings. Lessor shall cause the TI Architect to prepare and deliver to Lessee for review and comment construction plans, specifications and drawings for the Lessee Improvements (“TI Construction Drawings”), which TI Construction Drawings shall be prepared substantially in accordance with the Space Plan and Budget. Lessee shall be solely responsible for ensuring that the TI Construction Drawings reflect Lessee’s requirements for the Lessee Improvements. Lessee shall deliver its written comments on the TI Construction Drawings to Lessor not later than 5 business days after Lessee’s receipt of the same; provided, however, that Lessee may not disapprove any matter that is consistent with the Space Plan and Budget without submitting a Change Request. Lessor and the TI Architect shall consider all such comments in good faith and shall, within 5 business days after receipt, notify Lessee how Lessor proposes to

 

Ex. ”B” - 1


respond to such comments, but Lessee’s review rights pursuant to the foregoing sentence shall not delay the design or construction schedule for the Lessee Improvements. Any disputes in connection with such comments shall be resolved in accordance with Paragraph 2(d) hereof. Provided that the design reflected in the TI Construction Drawings is consistent with the Space Plan and Budget, Lessee shall approve the TI Construction Drawings submitted by Lessor, unless Lessee submits a Change Request. Once approved by Lessee, subject to the provisions of Paragraph 4 below, Lessor shall not materially modify the TI Construction Drawings except as may be reasonably required in connection with the issuance of the TI Permit (as defined in Paragraph 3(b) below).

(d) Approval and Completion. It is hereby acknowledged by Lessor and Lessee that the TI Construction Drawings must be completed and approved no later than September 15, 2020 in order for the Lessor’s Work to be Substantially Completed by the target Commencement Date. Any changes to the TI Construction Drawings following Lessor’s and Lessee’s approval of same requested by Lessee shall be processed as provided in Paragraph 4 hereof.

 

  3.

Performance of Lessor’s Work.

(a) Definition of Lessor’s Work. As used herein, “Lessor’s Work” shall mean the work of constructing the Lessee Improvements.

(b) Commencement and Permitting. Lessor shall commence construction of the Lessee Improvements upon obtaining a building permit (the “TI Permit”) authorizing the construction of the Lessee Improvements consistent with the TI Construction Drawings approved by Lessee. The cost of obtaining the TI Permit shall be payable by Lessor.    Lessee shall assist Lessor in obtaining the TI Permit by timely cooperating with the TI Architect and lab architect. If any Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over the construction of Lessor’s Work or any portion thereof shall impose terms or conditions upon the construction thereof that: (i) are materially inconsistent with Lessor’s obligations hereunder, (ii) materially increase the cost of constructing Lessor’s Work, or (iii) will materially delay the construction of Lessor’s Work, Lessor and Lessee shall reasonably and in good faith seek means by which to mitigate or eliminate any such adverse terms and conditions.

(c) Completion of Lessor’s Work. Lessor shall Substantially Complete or cause to be Substantially Completed Lessor’s Work in a good and workmanlike manner, in accordance with the TI Permit and with the TI Construction Drawings approved by Lessee. For purposes of this Lease, the Premises shall be “Substantially Complete” or “Substantially Completed” the substantial completion of construction of the Lessee Improvements pursuant to the approved TI Construction Drawings, as evidenced by a receipt of a temporary certificate of occupancy or a certificate of occupancy from the City of Carlsbad and as otherwise reasonably determined by TI Architect, with the exception of any punch list items and any tenant fixtures, work-stations, built-in furniture, or equipment to be installed by Lessee. Prior to Lessor’s delivery of the Premises to Lessee, Lessor or its agent and Lessee or its agent shall conduct a walk through inspection of the Premises and prepare a punch list of any items which shall be corrected by Lessor within a reasonable time thereafter.

(d) Site Design and Aesthetic Features; Selection of Materials. Lessor agrees to deliver a Premise in likeness to renderings distributed to Lessee. Notwithstanding the TI Construction Drawings approved by Lessor and Lessee, Lessor shall retain sole and absolute subjective discretion over all design and aesthetic features and sole and absolute subjective discretion in the selection of all building materials and equipment.

(e) Delivery of the Premises. When Lessor’s Work is Substantially Complete, subject to the remaining terms and provisions of this Paragraph 3(e), Lessee shall accept the Premises. Lessee shall be entitled to receive the benefit of all construction warranties and manufacturer’s equipment warranties relating to equipment installed in the Premises. If requested by Lessee, Lessor shall attempt to obtain extended warranties from manufacturers and suppliers of such equipment, but the cost of any such extended warranties shall be borne solely by Lessee. Lessor shall promptly undertake and complete, or cause to be completed, all punch list items.

 

Ex. ”B” - 2


(f) Commencement Date Delay. Except as otherwise provided in the Lease, delivery of the Premises shall occur when Lessor’s Work has been Substantially Completed, except to the extent that completion of Lessor’s Work shall have been actually delayed as a direct result of any one or more of the following causes (“Lessee Delay”):

(i) Change Requests after the final Space Plan and Budget have been approved (as defined in Paragraph 4(a) below) that are actually performed by Lessor;

(ii) Lessee’s repeated delay in reviewing, revising or approving plans and specifications beyond the periods set forth herein; or

(iii) Lessee’s delay in making payments to Lessor for Excess TI Costs (as defined in Paragraph 5(b) below).

If delivery is delayed for any of the foregoing reasons, then Lessor and Lessee shall certify the date on which the Tenant Improvements would have been Substantially Completed but for such Lessee Delay and such certified date shall be the date of delivery. If the Lessor’s performance of the Lessor Work is delayed by (or if Lessor has reason to believe that its performance of the Lessor Work will be delayed by) any Lessee Delay, Lessor shall, within three (3) days of the Lessor’s discovery of any such condition give to Lessee written notice thereof and of the anticipated results thereof. If the Lessee objects Lessor’s claim that a Lessee Delay has occurred, Lessee shall provide a reasonably detailed description of the basis for such objection. The parties shall work in good faith to resolve any dispute regarding a claim of Lessee Delay.

(g) Lessor Delay. As used herein, a “Lessor Delay” means completion of Lessor’s Work shall have been actually delayed as a direct result of any one or more of the following causes (1) an act or neglect of the Lessor, the Lessor’s representative or TI Architect, or of an employee of either, or of a separate contractor employed by the Lessor; or (2) changes in the Work ordered by the Lessor. Lessor shall, in the event of any such occurrence likely to cause a Lessor Delay, use commercially reasonable efforts (a) to mitigate and minimize the duration of, and costs arising from, any delay in (or any suspension of) the performance of its obligations hereunder, (b) to continue to perform its obligations under the Lease and this Work Letter, and (c) to remedy its inability to perform as soon as reasonably possible.    

4. Changes. Any changes requested by Lessee to the Lessee Improvements after the delivery and approval by Lessor of the Space Plan and Budget shall be requested and instituted in accordance with the provisions of this Paragraph 4 and shall be subject to the written approval of Lessor.

(a) Lessee’s Request For Changes. If Lessee shall request changes to the Lessee Improvements (“Changes”), Lessee shall request such Changes by notifying Lessor in writing (a “Change Request”), which Change Request shall detail the nature and extent of any such Change. Such Change Request must be signed by Lessee’s Representative. Lessor shall, before proceeding with any Change, use commercially reasonable efforts to respond to Lessee as soon as is reasonably possible with an estimate of: (i) the time it will take, and (ii) the architectural and engineering fees and costs that will be incurred, to analyze such Change Request (which costs shall be paid by Lessee to the extent actually incurred, whether or not such change is implemented). Lessor shall thereafter submit to Lessee in writing, within 5 business days of receipt of the Change Request (or such longer period of time as is reasonably required depending on the extent of the Change Request), an analysis of the additional cost or savings involved, including, without limitation, architectural and engineering costs and the period of time, if any, that the Change will extend the date on which Lessor’s Work will be Substantially Complete. Any such delay in the completion of Lessor’s Work caused by a Change, including any suspension of Lessor’s Work while any such Change is being evaluated and/or designed, shall be Lessee Delay.

(b) Implementation of Changes. If Lessee: (i) approves in writing the cost or savings and the estimated extension in the time for completion of Lessor’s Work, if any, and (ii) deposits with Lessor any Excess TI Costs required in connection with such Change, Lessor shall cause the approved Change to be instituted. Notwithstanding any approval or disapproval by Lessee of any estimate of the delay caused by such proposed Change, the Lessor’s determination of the amount of Lessee Delay in connection with such Change shall be final and binding on Lessor and Lessee.

 

Ex. ”B” - 3


5. Costs.

(a) TI Costs. Lessor shall be responsible for the payment of design, permits and construction costs in connection with the construction of the Lessee Improvements, including, without limitation, Building systems, materials or equipment, the cost of preparing the TI Construction Drawings and the Space Plan and Lessor’s out-of-pocket expenses (collectively, “TI Costs”). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, in no event shall Lessor be required to pay for any furniture, fixtures, equipment, personal property or other non-Building system materials or equipment, including, but not limited to, Lessee’s scientific equipment not incorporated into the Lessee Improvements, including soft costs for permits thereof.

(b) Excess TI Costs. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, Lessee acknowledges and agrees that Lessor shall have no responsibility for any costs arising from or related to Lessee’s changes to the Space Plan or TI Construction Drawings, Lessee Delays, and the cost of Changes and Change Requests (collectively, “Excess TI Costs”). Lessee shall deposit with Lessor, as a condition precedent to Lessor’s obligation to complete the Lessee Improvements, 100% of the Excess TI Costs. If Lessee fails to deposit any Excess TI Costs with Lessor, Lessor shall have all of the rights and remedies set forth in the Lease for nonpayment of Rent (including, but not limited to, the right to interest at the Default Rate and the right to assess a late charge). For purposes of any litigation instituted with regard to such amounts, those amounts will be deemed Rent under the Lease.    

6. Lessee Access.

(a) Lessee’s Access Rights. Lessor hereby agrees to permit Lessee access, at Lessee’s sole risk and expense, to the Building (i) 60 days prior to the Commencement Date to perform any work (“Lessee’s Work”) required by Lessee other than Lessor’s Work, provided that such Lessee’s Work is coordinated with the TI Architect and the general contractor, and complies with the Lease and all other reasonable restrictions and conditions Lessor may impose, and (ii) prior to the completion of Lessor’s Work, to inspect and observe work in process; all such access shall be during normal business hours or at such other times as are reasonably designated by Lessor. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Lessee shall have no right to enter onto the Premises or the Project unless and until Lessee shall deliver to Lessor evidence reasonably satisfactory to Lessor demonstrating that any insurance reasonably required by Lessor in connection with such pre-commencement access (including, but not limited to, any insurance that Lessor may require pursuant to the Lease) is in full force and effect. Any entry by Lessee shall comply with all established safety practices of Lessor’s contractor and Lessor until completion of Lessor’s Work and acceptance thereof by Lessee.

(b) No Interference. Neither Lessee nor any Lessee Party (as defined in the Lease) shall interfere with the performance of Lessor’s Work, nor with any inspections or issuance of final approvals by applicable governmental authorities, and upon any such interference, Lessor shall have the right to exclude Lessee and any Lessee Party from the Premises and the Project until Substantial Completion of Lessor’s Work.

7. Miscellaneous.

(a) Consents. Whenever consent or approval of either party is required under this Work Letter, that party shall not unreasonably withhold, condition or delay such consent or approval, unless expressly set forth herein to the contrary.

(b) Modification. No modification, waiver or amendment of this Work Letter or of any of its conditions or provisions shall be binding upon Lessor or Lessee unless in writing signed by Lessor and Lessee.

 

Ex. ”B” - 4


SCHEDULE 1 TO LEASE WORK LETTER

PROPOSED SPACE PLAN AND BUDGET

ATTACHED

 

Ex. ”B” - 5


LOGO


EXHIBIT “C”

EXCLUSIONS TO COMMON AREA OPERATING EXPENSES

Common Area Operating Expenses shall not include the following:

(1) depreciation or amortization on the Building;

(2) debt service, rental under any ground or underlying lease, or interest, principal, points and fees on any encumbrance, mortgage or other debt instrument encumbering the Building;

(3) attorneys’ fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, advertising costs, or other related expenses incurred in connection with leasing of the Building including lease concessions, rental abatements and construction allowances;

(4) the cost of any improvements or equipment that would be properly classified as Capital Expenditures;

(5) the cost (including permit, license and inspection fees) of decorating, improving for tenant occupancy, altering, painting or redecorating portions of the Building to be demised to tenants or occupants or vacant space in the Building;

(6) any deductible under Landlord’s insurance policies in excess of $25,000;

(7) costs for which Landlord is reimbursed or entitled to be reimbursed by condemnation proceeds, other tenants or any other source;

(8) rentals incurred in leasing HVAC systems, elevators or other equipment that if purchased rather than rented, would constitute a capital item that is excluded;

(9) any damage and repairs covered under any insurance policy carried by, or required to be carried by, Landlord;

(10) any bad debt loss, rent loss, or reserves for bad debt loss or rent loss;

(11) costs incurred in connection with the operation of the business of the entity constituting Landlord, as distinguished from the costs of operating the Building, including accounting and legal matters, costs of defending any lawsuits with any mortgagee, costs of selling, syndicating, financing, mortgaging or hypothecating any of Landlord’s interest in the Building; for avoidance of doubt, tax return and direct cost of property management software shall be included as Common Area Property Expenses.

(12) overhead and profit paid to Landlord or its affiliates, or to any party for goods and/or services in the Building or management of the Building to the extent the same exceed the market rate cost of such goods and/or services of comparable quality rendered by unaffiliated third parties of similar skill, competence and experience in comparable buildings on an arms-length basis;

(13) costs for which Landlord has been compensated by a management fee to the extent that the inclusion of such costs in Common Area Operating Expenses would result in a double charge;

(14) Landlord’s political or charitable contributions;

(15) the cost of any “tenant relations” parties, events or promotions;

(16) costs of insurance (i) which is not customarily carried by institutional owners of office buildings in the City of San Diego, (ii) for Landlord’s errors and omissions insurance or (iii) for Landlord’s pollution legal liability insurance;

(17) costs to repair or replace the Project resulting from any fire or other casualty;

(18) repairs, alterations, additions, improvements or replacements made to (i) rectify or correct any defect in the design, materials or workmanship of the Project, (ii) comply with any Laws in effect as of the Commencement Date, or (iii) rectify or correct damage caused by the negligence or willful misconduct of Landlord or any Landlord party;

(19) the cost to perform all deferred maintenance items to the extent existing as of the Commencement Date;

(20) salaries, wages, bonuses and other compensation (including hospitalization, medical, surgical, retirement plan, pension plan, union dues, parking privileges, life insurance, including group life insurance, welfare and other fringe benefits, and vacation, holidays and other paid absence benefits) relating to asset managers, leasing agents, promotional directors, officers, directors, or executives of Landlord;

(21) costs, fines, penalties or interest incurred due to violation by Landlord of the terms and conditions of any lease or any Applicable Laws or due to violation by any other tenant in the Project of the terms and conditions of any lease or any Applicable Laws;

(22) interest, penalties or other costs arising out of Landlord’s failure to make timely payment of its obligations;

(23) property management fees in excess of four percent (4%) of Tenant’s Base Rent;

(24) costs incurred to test, survey, cleanup, contain, abate, remove, or otherwise remedy Hazardous Substances or mold from the Project;

 

Ex. “C” - 1


(25) costs incurred to correct defective equipment installed in the Project;

(26) sale or financing costs incurred in connection with any sale, financing or refinancing of the Project;

(27) any reserves for bad debts, rent loss, capital items, future Common Area Operating Expenses or any other purpose;

(28) costs relating to the repair of structural portions of the roof, foundations, floors and exterior walls and all structural seismic upgrading costs;

(29) costs incurred in connection with re-certification pursuant to one or more Green Rating Systems or to support achieving any energy and carbon reduction targets;

(30) Landlord’s general overhead expenses not related to the Building;

(31) costs for janitorial services for any rentable area in the Project to the extent Tenant provides such services to the Premises at its own cost;

(32) legal fees, accountants’ fees and other expenses incurred in connection with disputes with Tenant, tenants or other occupants or associated with the enforcement of any leases or defense of Landlord’s title to or interest in the Building or any part thereof;

(33) costs incurred by Landlord due to violation by Landlord or any other tenant or occupant of the Building of applicable Laws, the terms and conditions of any lease, ground lease, mortgage or deed of trust, or other covenants, conditions or restrictions encumbering the Building or the real property on which it is located;

(34) advertising or promotional expenditures, and the costs of acquiring and installing signs in or on any of the Building identifying the owner of the Building or any other tenant or occupant of the Building;

(35) costs incurred in connection with upgrading the Building to comply with disabled access, life, fire and safety codes in effect prior to the date of the Lease, and costs incurred in connection with upgrading the Building to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations (or its successor); and

(36) any other expense which, under generally accepted accounting principles and practice, would not be considered a normal maintenance and operating expense.

 

Ex. “C” - 2


EXHIBIT “D”

ESTIMATED COMMON AREA OPERATING EXPENSES BUDGET

 

CALENDAR YEAR 2021 ESTIMATED BUDGET         

Common Area Operating Expenses

   Annual      Monthly  

Property Taxes

   $ 23,975.24      $ 1,997.94  

Accounting

   $ 2,100.00      $ 175.00  

Insurance

   $ 3,000.00      $ 250.00  

Landscaping

   $ 3,600.00      $ 300.00  

Property Management

   $ 8,400.00      $ 700.00  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

   $ 41,075.24      $ 3,422.94  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Common Area Operating Expenses/SF

   $ 8.68      $ 0.72  

 

Ex. “D” - 1


EXHIBIT “E”

LAB CAPITAL REPAIRS SUBJECT TO AMORTIZATION IN OPTION TERM(S)

1. Lab Hood

2. Lab House Vacuum

3. Lab DI Water System

4. Backup Generator

5. Lab Sinks and Encasements

 

 

Ex. “E” - 1

EX-10.20

Exhibit 10.20

INDEMNIFICATION AGREEMENT

This Indemnification Agreement (“Agreement”) is made as of                  , 20     by and between Tyra Biosciences, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Company”), and                     , [a member of the Board of Directors/ an officer] of the Company (“Indemnitee”). This Agreement supersedes and replaces any and all previous Agreements between the Company and Indemnitee covering indemnification and advancement.

RECITALS

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) believes that highly competent persons have become more reluctant to serve publicly-held corporations as directors, officers, or in other capacities unless they are provided with adequate protection through insurance or adequate indemnification and advancement of expenses against inordinate risks of claims and actions against them arising out of their service to and activities on behalf of the corporation;

WHEREAS, the Board has determined that, in order to attract and retain qualified individuals, the Company will attempt to maintain on an ongoing basis, at its sole expense, liability insurance to protect persons serving the Company and its subsidiaries from certain liabilities. Although the furnishing of such insurance has been a customary and widespread practice among United States-based corporations and other business enterprises, the Company believes that, given current market conditions and trends, such insurance may be available to it in the future only at higher premiums and with more exclusions. At the same time, directors, officers, and other persons in service to corporations or business enterprises are being increasingly subjected to expensive and time-consuming litigation relating to, among other things, matters that traditionally would have been brought only against the Company or business enterprise itself. The Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Company (the “Bylaws”) and the Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company (the “Certificate of Incorporation”) require indemnification of the officers and directors of the Company. Indemnitee may also be entitled to indemnification pursuant to the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware (the “DGCL”). The Bylaws, Certificate of Incorporation, and the DGCL expressly provide that the indemnification provisions set forth therein are not exclusive, and thereby contemplate that contracts may be entered into between the Company and members of the board of directors, officers and other persons with respect to indemnification and advancement of expenses;

WHEREAS, the uncertainties relating to such insurance, to indemnification, and to advancement of expenses may increase the difficulty of attracting and retaining such persons;

WHEREAS, the Board has determined that the increased difficulty in attracting and retaining such persons is detrimental to the best interests of the Company and its stockholders and that the Company should act to assure such persons that there will be increased certainty of such protection in the future;

WHEREAS, it is reasonable, prudent and necessary for the Company contractually to obligate itself to indemnify, and to advance expenses on behalf of, such persons to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law so that they will serve or continue to serve the Company free from undue concern that they will not be so indemnified;


WHEREAS, this Agreement is a supplement to and in furtherance of the Bylaws, Certificate of Incorporation and any resolutions adopted pursuant thereto, and is not a substitute therefor, nor diminishes or abrogates any rights of Indemnitee thereunder; and

WHEREAS, Indemnitee does not regard the protection available under the Bylaws, Certificate of Incorporation, DGCL and insurance as adequate in the present circumstances, and may not be willing to serve or continue to serve as an officer or director without adequate additional protection, and the Company desires Indemnitee to serve or continue to serve in such capacity. Indemnitee is willing to serve, continue to serve and to take on additional service for or on behalf of the Company on the condition that Indemnitee be so indemnified and be advanced expenses.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the covenants contained herein, the Company and Indemnitee do hereby covenant and agree as follows:

Section 1. Services to the Company. Indemnitee agrees to serve as a [director/officer] of the Company. Indemnitee may at any time and for any reason resign from such position (subject to any other contractual obligation or any obligation imposed by operation of law). This Agreement does not create any obligation on the Company to continue Indemnitee in such position and is not an employment contract between the Company (or any of its subsidiaries or any Enterprise) and Indemnitee.

Section 2. Definitions. As used in this Agreement:

(a) “Agent” means any person who is authorized by the Company or an Enterprise to act for or represent the interests of the Company or an Enterprise, respectively.

(b) A “Change in Control” occurs upon the earliest to occur after the date of this Agreement of any of the following events:

i. Acquisition of Stock by Third Party. Any Person (as defined below) is or becomes the Beneficial Owner (as defined below), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing fifteen percent (15%) or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities unless the change in relative beneficial ownership of the Company’s securities by any Person results solely from a reduction in the aggregate number of outstanding shares of securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors;

ii. Change in Board of Directors. During any period of two (2) consecutive years (not including any period prior to the execution of this Agreement), individuals who at the beginning of such period constitute the Board, and any new director (other than a director designated by a person who has entered into an agreement with the Company to effect a transaction described in Sections 2(b)(i), 2(b)(iii) or 2(b)(iv)) whose election by the Board or nomination for election by the Company’s stockholders was approved by a vote of at least two-thirds of the directors then still in office who either were directors at the beginning of the period or whose election or nomination for election was previously so approved, cease for any reason to constitute at least a majority of the members of the Board;

 

-2-


iii. Corporate Transactions. The effective date of a merger or consolidation of the Company with any other entity, other than a merger or consolidation which would result in the voting securities of the Company outstanding immediately prior to such merger or consolidation continuing to represent (either by remaining outstanding or by being converted into voting securities of the surviving entity) more than 50% of the combined voting power of the voting securities of the surviving entity outstanding immediately after such merger or consolidation and with the power to elect at least a majority of the board of directors or other governing body of such surviving entity;

iv. Liquidation. The approval by the stockholders of the Company of a complete liquidation of the Company or an agreement for the sale or disposition by the Company of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets; and

v. Other Events. There occurs any other event of a nature that would be required to be reported in response to Item 6(e) of Schedule 14A of Regulation 14A (or a response to any similar item on any similar schedule or form) promulgated under the Exchange Act (as defined below), whether or not the Company is then subject to such reporting requirement.

vi. For purposes of this Section 2(b), the following terms have the following meanings:

 

  1

“Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time.

 

  2

“Person” has the meaning as set forth in Sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act; provided, however, that Person excludes (i) the Company, (ii) any trustee or other fiduciary holding securities under an employee benefit plan of the Company, and (iii) any corporation owned, directly or indirectly, by the stockholders of the Company in substantially the same proportions as their ownership of stock of the Company.

 

  3

“Beneficial Owner” has the meaning given to such term in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act; provided, however, that Beneficial Owner excludes any Person otherwise becoming a Beneficial Owner by reason of the stockholders of the Company approving a merger of the Company with another entity.

(c) “Corporate Status” describes the status of a person who is or was acting as a director, officer, employee, fiduciary, or Agent of the Company or an Enterprise.

(d) “Disinterested Director” means a director of the Company who is not and was not a party to the Proceeding in respect of which indemnification is sought by Indemnitee.

 

-3-


(e) “Enterprise” means any other corporation, limited liability company, partnership, joint venture, trust, employee benefit plan or other entity for which Indemnitee is or was serving at the request of the Company as a director, officer, employee, or Agent.

(f) “Expenses” includes all reasonable attorneys’ fees, retainers, court costs, transcript costs, fees of experts and other professionals, witness fees, travel expenses, duplicating costs, printing and binding costs, telephone charges, postage, delivery service fees, any federal, state, local or foreign taxes imposed on Indemnitee as a result of the actual or deemed receipt of any payments under this Agreement, ERISA excise taxes and penalties, and all other disbursements or expenses of the types customarily incurred in connection with prosecuting, defending, preparing to prosecute or defend, investigating, being or preparing to be a witness in, or otherwise participating in, a Proceeding. Expenses also include (i) Expenses incurred in connection with any appeal resulting from any Proceeding, including without limitation the premium, security for, and other costs relating to any cost bond, supersedeas bond, or other appeal bond or its equivalent, and (ii) for purposes of Section 14(d) only, Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with the interpretation, enforcement or defense of Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement, by litigation or otherwise. The parties agree that for the purposes of any advancement of Expenses for which Indemnitee has made written demand to the Company in accordance with this Agreement, all Expenses included in such demand that are certified by affidavit of Indemnitee’s counsel as being reasonable in the good faith judgment of such counsel will be presumed conclusively to be reasonable. Expenses, however, do not include amounts paid in settlement by Indemnitee or the amount of judgments or fines against Indemnitee.

(g) “Independent Counsel” means a law firm, or a member of a law firm, that is experienced in matters of corporation law and neither presently is, nor in the past five years has been, retained to represent: (i) the Company or Indemnitee in any matter material to either such party (other than with respect to matters concerning the Indemnitee under this Agreement, or of other indemnitees under similar indemnification agreements), or (ii) any other party to the Proceeding giving rise to a claim for indemnification hereunder. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the term “Independent Counsel” does not include any person who, under the applicable standards of professional conduct then prevailing, would have a conflict of interest in representing either the Company or Indemnitee in an action to determine Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement.

(h) “Potential Change in Control” means the occurrence of any of the following events: (i) the Company enters into any written or oral agreement, undertaking or arrangement, the consummation of which would result in the occurrence of a Change in Control; (ii) any Person or the Company publicly announces an intention to take or consider taking actions which if consummated would constitute a Change in Control; (iii) any Person who becomes the Beneficial Owner, directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 5% or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors increases his beneficial ownership of such securities by 5% or more over the percentage so owned by such Person on the date hereof; or (iv) the Board adopts a resolution to the effect that, for purposes of this Agreement, a Potential Change in Control has occurred.

(i) The term “Proceeding” includes any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, claim, counterclaim, cross claim, arbitration, mediation, alternate dispute resolution

 

-4-


mechanism, investigation, inquiry, administrative hearing or any other actual, threatened or completed proceeding, whether brought in the right of the Company or otherwise and whether of a civil, criminal, administrative, legislative, or investigative (formal or informal) nature, including any appeal therefrom, in which Indemnitee was, is or will be involved as a party, potential party, non-party witness or otherwise by reason of Indemnitee’s Corporate Status or by reason of any action taken by Indemnitee (or a failure to take action by Indemnitee) or of any action (or failure to act) on Indemnitee’s part while acting pursuant to Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, in each case whether or not serving in such capacity at the time any liability or Expense is incurred for which indemnification, reimbursement, or advancement of Expenses can be provided under this Agreement. A Proceeding also includes a situation the Indemnitee believes in good faith may lead to or culminate in the institution of a Proceeding.

(j) [“Fund Indemnitor” means [insert names]]

Section 3. Indemnity in Third-Party Proceedings. The Company will indemnify Indemnitee in accordance with the provisions of this Section 3 if Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be made, a party to or a participant in any Proceeding, other than a Proceeding by or in the right of the Company to procure a judgment in its favor. Pursuant to this Section 3, the Company will indemnify Indemnitee to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law against all Expenses, judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement (including all interest, assessments and other charges paid or payable in connection with or in respect of such Expenses, judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement) actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with such Proceeding or any claim, issue or matter therein, if Indemnitee acted in good faith and in a manner Indemnitee reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company and, in the case of a criminal Proceeding had no reasonable cause to believe that Indemnitee’s conduct was unlawful.

Section 4. Indemnity in Proceedings by or in the Right of the Company. The Company will indemnify Indemnitee in accordance with the provisions of this Section 4 if Indemnitee is, or is threatened to be made, a party to or a participant in any Proceeding by or in the right of the Company to procure a judgment in its favor. Pursuant to this Section 4, the Company will indemnify Indemnitee to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with such Proceeding or any claim, issue or matter therein, if Indemnitee acted in good faith and in a manner Indemnitee reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company. The Company will not indemnify Indemnitee for Expenses under this Section 4 related to any claim, issue or matter in a Proceeding for which Indemnitee has been finally adjudged by a court to be liable to the Company, unless, and only to the extent that, the Delaware Court of Chancery or any court in which the Proceeding was brought determines upon application by Indemnitee that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, Indemnitee is fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnification.

Section 5. Indemnification for Expenses of a Party Who is Wholly or Partly Successful. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Agreement, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the Company will indemnify Indemnitee against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee in connection with any Proceeding the extent that Indemnitee is successful, on the merits or otherwise. If Indemnitee is not wholly successful in such Proceeding

 

-5-


but is successful, on the merits or otherwise, as to one or more but less than all claims, issues or matters in such Proceeding, the Company will indemnify Indemnitee against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with or related to each successfully resolved claim, issue or matter to the fullest extent permitted by law. For purposes of this Section 5 and without limitation, the termination of any claim, issue or matter in such a Proceeding by dismissal, with or without prejudice, will be deemed to be a successful result as to such claim, issue or matter.

Section 6. Indemnification For Expenses of a Witness. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement and to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, the Company will indemnify Indemnitee against all Expenses actually and reasonably incurred by Indemnitee or on Indemnitee’s behalf in connection with any Proceeding to which Indemnitee is not a party but to which Indemnitee is a witness, deponent, interviewee, or otherwise asked to participate.

Section 7. Partial Indemnification. If Indemnitee is entitled under any provision of this Agreement to indemnification by the Company for some or a portion of Expenses, but not, however, for the total amount thereof, the Company will indemnify Indemnitee for the portion thereof to which Indemnitee is entitled.

Section 8. Additional Indemnification. Notwithstanding any limitation in Sections 3, 4, or 5, the Company will indemnify Indemnitee to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law (including but not limited to, the DGCL and any amendments to or replacements of the DGCL adopted after the date of this Agreement that expand the Company’s ability to indemnify its officers and directors) if Indemnitee is a party to or threatened to be made a party to any Proceeding (including a Proceeding by or in the right of the Company to procure a judgment in its favor).

Section 9. Exclusions. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement, the Company is not obligated under this Agreement to make any indemnification payment to Indemnitee in connection with any Proceeding:

(a) for which payment has actually been made to or on behalf of Indemnitee under any insurance policy or other indemnity provision, except to the extent provided in Section 16(b) and except with respect to any excess beyond the amount paid under any insurance policy or other indemnity provision; or

(b) for (i) an accounting of profits made from the purchase and sale (or sale and purchase) by Indemnitee of securities of the Company within the meaning of Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act (as defined in Section 2(b) hereof) or similar provisions of state statutory law or common law, (ii) any reimbursement of the Company by the Indemnitee of any bonus or other incentive-based or equity-based compensation or of any profits realized by the Indemnitee from the sale of securities of the Company, as required in each case under the Exchange Act (including any such reimbursements that arise from an accounting restatement of the Company pursuant to Section 304 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”), or the payment to the Company of profits arising from the purchase and sale by Indemnitee of securities in violation of Section 306 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act) or (iii) any reimbursement of the Company by Indemnitee of any compensation pursuant to any compensation recoupment or clawback policy adopted by the Board or the compensation committee of the Board, including but not limited to any such policy

 

-6-


adopted to comply with stock exchange listing requirements implementing Section 10D of the Exchange Act; or

(c) initiated by Indemnitee, including any Proceeding (or any part of any Proceeding) initiated by Indemnitee against the Company or its directors, officers, employees or other indemnitees, unless (i) the Proceeding or part of any Proceeding is to enforce Indemnitee’s rights to indemnification or advancement, of Expenses, including a Proceeding (or any part of any Proceeding) initiated pursuant to Section 14 of this Agreement, (ii) the Board authorized the Proceeding (or any part of any Proceeding) prior to its initiation or (iii) the Company provides the indemnification, in its sole discretion, pursuant to the powers vested in the Company under applicable law.

Section 10. Advances of Expenses.

(a) The Company will advance, to the extent not prohibited by law, the Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in connection with any Proceeding (or any part of any Proceeding) not initiated by Indemnitee or any Proceeding (or any part of any Proceeding) initiated by Indemnitee if (i) the Proceeding or part of any Proceeding is to enforce Indemnitee’s rights to obtain indemnification or advancement of Expenses from the Company or Enterprise, including a proceeding initiated pursuant to Section 14 or (ii) the Board authorized the Proceeding (or any part of any Proceeding) prior to its initiation. The Company will advance the Expenses within thirty (30) days after the receipt by the Company of a statement or statements requesting such advances from time to time, whether prior to or after final disposition of any Proceeding.

(b) Advances will be unsecured and interest free. Indemnitee undertakes to repay the amounts advanced (without interest) to the extent that it is ultimately determined that Indemnitee is not entitled to be indemnified by the Company, thus Indemnitee qualifies for advances upon the execution of this Agreement and delivery to the Company. No other form of undertaking is required other than the execution of this Agreement. The Company will make advances without regard to Indemnitee’s ability to repay the Expenses and without regard to Indemnitee’s ultimate entitlement to indemnification under the other provisions of this Agreement.

Section 11. Procedure for Notification of Claim for Indemnification or Advancement.

(a) Indemnitee will notify the Company in writing of any Proceeding with respect to which Indemnitee intends to seek indemnification or advancement of Expenses hereunder as soon as reasonably practicable following the receipt by Indemnitee of written notice thereof. Indemnitee will include in the written notification to the Company a description of the nature of the Proceeding and the facts underlying the Proceeding and provide such documentation and information as is reasonably available to Indemnitee and is reasonably necessary to determine whether and to what extent Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification following the final disposition of such Proceeding. Indemnitee’s failure to notify the Company will not relieve the Company from any obligation it may have to Indemnitee under this Agreement, and any delay in so notifying the Company will not constitute a waiver by Indemnitee of any rights under this Agreement. The Secretary of the Company will, promptly upon receipt of such a request for indemnification or advancement, advise the Board in writing that Indemnitee has requested indemnification or advancement.

 

-7-


(b) The Company will be entitled to participate in the Proceeding at its own expense.

Section 12. Procedure Upon Application for Indemnification.

(a) Unless a Change of Control has occurred, the determination of Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification will be made:

i. by a majority vote of the Disinterested Directors, even though less than a quorum of the Board;

ii. by a committee of Disinterested Directors designated by a majority vote of the Disinterested Directors, even though less than a quorum of the Board;

iii. if there are no such Disinterested Directors or, if such Disinterested Directors so direct, by written opinion provided by Independent Counsel selected by the Board; or

iv. if so directed by the Board, by the stockholders of the Company.

(b) If a Change in Control has occurred, the determination of Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification will be made by written opinion provided by Independent Counsel selected by Indemnitee (unless Indemnitee requests such selection be made by the Board).

(c) The party selecting Independent Counsel pursuant to subsection (a)(iii) or (b) of this Section 12 will provide written notice of the selection to the other party. The notified party may, within ten (10) days after receiving written notice of the selection of Independent Counsel, deliver to the selecting party a written objection to such selection; provided, however, that such objection may be asserted only on the ground that the Independent Counsel so selected does not meet the requirements of “Independent Counsel” as defined in Section 2 of this Agreement, and the objection will set forth with particularity the factual basis of such assertion. Absent a proper and timely objection, the person so selected will act as Independent Counsel. If such written objection is so made and substantiated, the Independent Counsel so selected may not serve as Independent Counsel unless and until such objection is withdrawn or the Delaware Court has determined that such objection is without merit. If, within thirty (30) days after the later of submission by Indemnitee of a written request for indemnification pursuant to Section 11(a) hereof and the final disposition of the Proceeding, Independent Counsel has not been selected or, if selected, any objection to has not been resolved, either the Company or Indemnitee may petition the Delaware Court for the appointment as Independent Counsel of a person selected by such court or by such other person as such court designates. Upon the due commencement of any judicial proceeding or arbitration pursuant to Section 14(a) of this Agreement, Independent Counsel will be discharged and relieved of any further responsibility in such capacity (subject to the applicable standards of professional conduct then prevailing).

(d) Indemnitee will cooperate with the person, persons or entity making the determination with respect to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification, including providing to such person, persons or entity upon reasonable advance request any documentation or information which is not privileged or otherwise protected from disclosure and which is reasonably available to Indemnitee and reasonably necessary to such determination. The Company will advance and

 

-8-


pay any Expenses incurred by Indemnitee in so cooperating with the person, persons or entity making the indemnification determination irrespective of the determination as to Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification and the Company hereby indemnifies and agrees to hold Indemnitee harmless therefrom. The Company promptly will advise Indemnitee in writing of the determination that Indemnitee is or is not entitled to indemnification, including a description of any reason or basis for which indemnification has been denied and providing a copy of any written opinion provided to the Board by Independent Counsel.

(e) If it is determined that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company will make payment to Indemnitee within thirty (30) days after such determination.

Section 13. Presumptions and Effect of Certain Proceedings.

(a) In making a determination with respect to entitlement to indemnification hereunder, the person or persons or entity making such determination will, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, presume Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification under this Agreement if Indemnitee has submitted a request for indemnification in accordance with Section 11(a) of this Agreement, and the Company will, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, have the burden of proof to overcome that presumption. Neither the failure of the Company (including by its directors or Independent Counsel) to have made a determination prior to the commencement of any action pursuant to this Agreement that indemnification is proper in the circumstances because Indemnitee has met the applicable standard of conduct, nor an actual determination by the Company (including by its directors or Independent Counsel) that Indemnitee has not met such applicable standard of conduct, will be a defense to the action or create a presumption that Indemnitee has not met the applicable standard of conduct.

(b) If the determination of the Indemnitee’s entitlement to indemnification has not been made pursuant to Section 12 within sixty (60) days after the later of (i) receipt by the Company of Indemnitee’s request for indemnification pursuant to Section 11(a) and (ii) the final disposition of the Proceeding for which Indemnitee requested Indemnification (the “Determination Period”), the requisite determination of entitlement to indemnification will, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, be deemed to have been made and Indemnitee will be entitled to such indemnification, absent (i) a misstatement by Indemnitee of a material fact, or an omission of a material fact necessary to make Indemnitee’s statement not materially misleading, in connection with the request for indemnification, or (ii) a prohibition of such indemnification under applicable law. The Determination Period may be extended for a reasonable time, not to exceed an additional thirty (30) days, if the person, persons or entity making the determination with respect to entitlement to indemnification in good faith requires such additional time for the obtaining or evaluating of documentation and/or information relating thereto; and provided, further, the Determination Period may be extended an additional fifteen (15) days if the determination of entitlement to indemnification is to be made by the stockholders pursuant to Section 12(a)(iv) of this Agreement.

(c) The termination of any Proceeding or of any claim, issue or matter therein, by judgment, order, settlement or conviction, or upon a plea of nolo contendere or its equivalent, will not (except as otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement) of itself adversely affect the right of Indemnitee to indemnification or create a presumption that Indemnitee did not act in good

 

-9-


faith and in a manner which Indemnitee reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company or, with respect to any criminal Proceeding, that Indemnitee had reasonable cause to believe that Indemnitee’s conduct was unlawful.

(d) For purposes of any determination of good faith, Indemnitee will be deemed to have acted in good faith if Indemnitee acted based on the records or books of account of the Company, its subsidiaries, or an Enterprise, including financial statements, or on information supplied to Indemnitee by the directors or officers of the Company, its subsidiaries, or an Enterprise in the course of their duties, or on the advice of legal counsel for the Company, its subsidiaries, or an Enterprise or on information or records given or reports made to the Company or an Enterprise by an independent certified public accountant or by an appraiser, financial advisor or other expert selected with reasonable care by or on behalf of the Company, its subsidiaries, or an Enterprise. Further, Indemnitee will be deemed to have acted in a manner “not opposed to the best interests of the Company,” as referred to in this Agreement if Indemnitee acted in good faith and in a manner Indemnitee reasonably believed to be in the best interests of the participants and beneficiaries of an employee benefit plan. The provisions of this Section 13(d) is not exclusive and does not limit in any way the other circumstances in which the Indemnitee may be deemed to have met the applicable standard of conduct set forth in this Agreement.

(e) The knowledge and/or actions, or failure to act, of any director, officer, trustee, partner, managing member, fiduciary, Agent or employee of the Enterprise may not be imputed to Indemnitee for purposes of determining Indemnitee’s right to indemnification under this Agreement.

Section 14. Remedies of Indemnitee.

(a) Indemnitee may commence litigation against the Company in the Delaware Court of Chancery to obtain indemnification or advancement of Expenses provided by this Agreement in the event that (i) a determination is made pursuant to Section 12 of this Agreement that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification under this Agreement, (ii) the Company does not advance Expenses pursuant to Section 10 of this Agreement, (iii) the determination of entitlement to indemnification is not made pursuant to Section 12 of this Agreement within the Determination Period, (iv) the Company does not indemnify Indemnitee pursuant to Section 5 or 6 or the second to last sentence of Section 12(d) of this Agreement within thirty (30) days after receipt by the Company of a written request therefor, (v) the Company does not indemnify Indemnitee pursuant to Section 3, 4, 7, or 8 of this Agreement within thirty (30) days after a determination has been made that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, or (vi) in the event that the Company or any other person takes or threatens to take any action to declare this Agreement void or unenforceable, or institutes any litigation or other action or Proceeding designed to deny, or to recover from, the Indemnitee the benefits provided or intended to be provided to the Indemnitee hereunder. Alternatively, Indemnitee, at Indemnitee’s option, may seek an award in arbitration to be conducted by a single arbitrator pursuant to the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association. Indemnitee must commence such Proceeding seeking an adjudication or an award in arbitration within one hundred and eighty (180) days following the date on which Indemnitee first has the right to commence such Proceeding pursuant to this Section 14(a); provided, however, that the foregoing clause does not apply in respect of a Proceeding brought by

 

-10-


Indemnitee to enforce Indemnitee’s rights under Section 5 of this Agreement. The Company will not oppose Indemnitee’s right to seek any such adjudication or award in arbitration.

(b) If a determination is made pursuant to Section 12 of this Agreement that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification, any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 14 will be conducted in all respects as a de novo trial, or arbitration, on the merits and Indemnitee may not be prejudiced by reason of that adverse determination. In any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 14 the Company will have the burden of proving Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification or advancement of Expenses, as the case may be and will not introduce evidence of the determination made pursuant to Section 12 of this Agreement.

(c) If a determination is made pursuant to Section 12 of this Agreement that Indemnitee is entitled to indemnification, the Company will be bound by such determination in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 14, absent (i) a misstatement by Indemnitee of a material fact, or an omission of a material fact necessary to make Indemnitee’s statement not materially misleading, in connection with the request for indemnification, or (ii) a prohibition of such indemnification under applicable law.

(d) The Company is, to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, precluded from asserting in any judicial proceeding or arbitration commenced pursuant to this Section 14 that the procedures and presumptions of this Agreement are not valid, binding and enforceable and will stipulate in any such court or before any such arbitrator that the Company is bound by all the provisions of this Agreement.

(e) It is the intent of the Company that, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the Indemnitee not be required to incur legal fees or other Expenses associated with the interpretation, enforcement or defense of Indemnitee’s rights under this Agreement by litigation or otherwise because the cost and expense thereof would substantially detract from the benefits intended to be extended to the Indemnitee hereunder. The Company, to the fullest extent permitted by law, will (within thirty (30) days after receipt by the Company of a written request therefor) advance to Indemnitee such Expenses which are incurred by Indemnitee in connection with any action concerning this Agreement, Indemnitee’s right to indemnification or advancement of Expenses from the Company, or concerning any directors’ and officers’ liability insurance policies maintained by the Company, and will indemnify Indemnitee against any and all such Expenses unless the court determines that each of the Indemnitee’s claims in such Proceeding were made in bad faith or were frivolous or are prohibited by law.

Section 15. [Reserved].

Section 16. Non-exclusivity; Survival of Rights; Insurance; Subrogation.

(a) The indemnification and advancement of Expenses provided by this Agreement are not exclusive of any other rights to which Indemnitee may at any time be entitled under applicable law, the Certificate of Incorporation, the Bylaws, any agreement, a vote of stockholders or a resolution of directors, or otherwise. The indemnification and advancement of Expenses provided by this Agreement may not be limited or restricted by any amendment,

 

-11-


alteration or repeal of this Agreement in any way with respect to any action taken or omitted by Indemnitee in Indemnitee’s Corporate Status occurring prior to any amendment, alteration or repeal of this Agreement. To the extent that a change in Delaware law, whether by statute or judicial decision, permits greater indemnification or advancement of Expenses than would be afforded currently under the Bylaws, Certificate of Incorporation, or this Agreement, it is the intent of the parties hereto that Indemnitee enjoy by this Agreement the greater benefits so afforded by such change. No right or remedy herein conferred is intended to be exclusive of any other right or remedy, and every other right and remedy is cumulative and in addition to every other right and remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion or employment of any right or remedy hereunder, or otherwise, will not prevent the concurrent assertion or employment of any other right or remedy.

(b) The Company hereby acknowledges that Indemnitee may have certain rights to indemnification, advancement of Expenses and/or insurance provided by one or more other Persons with whom or which Indemnitee may be associated [(including, without limitation, any Fund Indemnitor)]. The relationship between the Company and such other Persons, other than an Enterprise, with respect to the Indemnitee’s rights to indemnification, advancement of Expenses, and insurance is described by this subsection, subject to the provisions of subsection (d) of this Section 16 with respect to a Proceeding concerning Indemnitee’s Corporate Status with an Enterprise.

i. The Company hereby acknowledges and agrees:

1) the Company is the indemnitor of first resort with respect to any request for indemnification or advancement of Expenses made pursuant to this Agreement concerning any Proceeding arising from or related to Indemnitee’s Corporate Status with the Company;

2) the Company is primarily liable for all indemnification and indemnification or advancement of Expenses obligations for any Proceeding arising from or related to Indemnitee’s Corporate Status, whether created by law, organizational or constituent documents, contract (including this Agreement) or otherwise;

3) any obligation of any other Persons with whom or which Indemnitee may be associated [(including, without limitation, any Fund Indemnitor)] to indemnify Indemnitee and/or advance Expenses to Indemnitee in respect of any proceeding are secondary to the obligations of the Company’s obligations;

4) the Company will indemnify Indemnitee and advance Expenses to Indemnitee hereunder to the fullest extent provided herein without regard to any rights Indemnitee may have against any other Person with whom or which Indemnitee may be associated [(including, any Fund Indemnitor)] or insurer of any such Person; and

ii. the Company irrevocably waives, relinquishes and releases (A) any other Person with whom or which Indemnitee may be associated [(including, without limitation, any Fund Indemnitor)] from any claim of contribution, subrogation, reimbursement, exoneration or indemnification, or any other recovery of any kind in respect of amounts paid by the Company

 

-12-


to Indemnitee pursuant to this Agreement [and (B) any right to participate in any claim or remedy of Indemnitee against any Fund Indemnitor (or former Fund Indemnitor), whether or not such claim, remedy or right arises in equity or under contract, statute or common law, including, without limitation, the right to take or receive from any Fund Indemnitor (or former Fund Indemnitor), directly or indirectly, in cash or other property or by set-off or in any other manner, payment or security on account of such claim, remedy or right].

iii. In the event any other Person with whom or which Indemnitee may be associated [(including, without limitation, any Fund Indemnitor)] or their insurers advances or extinguishes any liability or loss for Indemnitee, the payor has a right of subrogation against the Company or its insurers for all amounts so paid which would otherwise be payable by the Company or its insurers under this Agreement. In no event will payment by any other Person with whom or which Indemnitee may be associated [(including, without limitation, any Fund Indemnitor)] or their insurers affect the obligations of the Company hereunder or shift primary liability for the Company’s obligation to indemnify or advance of Expenses to any other Person with whom or which Indemnitee may be associated [(including, without limitation, any Fund Indemnitor)].

iv. Any indemnification or advancement of Expenses provided by any other Person with whom or which Indemnitee may be associated [(including, without limitation, any Fund Indemnitor)] is specifically in excess over the Company’s obligation to indemnify and advance Expenses or any valid and collectible insurance (including but not limited to any malpractice insurance or professional errors and omissions insurance) provided by the Company.

(c) To the extent that the Company maintains an insurance policy or policies providing liability insurance for directors, officers, employees, or Agents of the Company, the Company will obtain a policy or policies covering Indemnitee to the maximum extent of the coverage available for any such director, officer, employee or Agent under such policy or policies, including coverage in the event the Company does not or cannot, for any reason, indemnify or advance Expenses to Indemnitee as required by this Agreement. If, at the time of the receipt of a notice of a claim pursuant to this Agreement, the Company has director and officer liability insurance in effect, the Company will give prompt notice of such claim or of the commencement of a Proceeding, as the case may be, to the insurers in accordance with the procedures set forth in the respective policies. The Company will thereafter take all necessary or desirable action to cause such insurers to pay, on behalf of the Indemnitee, all amounts payable as a result of such Proceeding in accordance with the terms of such policies. Indemnitee agrees to assist the Company efforts to cause the insurers to pay such amounts and will comply with the terms of such policies, including selection of approved panel counsel, if required.

(d) The Company’s obligation to indemnify or advance Expenses hereunder to Indemnitee for any Proceeding concerning Indemnitee’s Corporate Status with an Enterprise will be reduced by any amount Indemnitee has actually received as indemnification or advancement of Expenses from such Enterprise. The Company and Indemnitee intend that any such Enterprise (and its insurers) be the indemnitor of first resort with respect to indemnification and advancement of Expenses for any Proceeding related to or arising from Indemnitee’s Corporate Status with such Enterprise. The Company’s obligation to indemnify and advance Expenses to Indemnitee is secondary to the obligations the Enterprise or its insurers owe to Indemnitee. Indemnitee agrees to take all reasonably necessary and desirable action to obtain from an Enterprise indemnification

 

-13-


and advancement of Expenses for any Proceeding related to or arising from Indemnitee’s Corporate Status with such Enterprise.

(e) In the event of any payment made by the Company under this Agreement, the Company will be subrogated to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of recovery of Indemnitee from any Enterprise or insurance carrier. Indemnitee will execute all papers required and take all action necessary to secure such rights, including execution of such documents as are necessary to enable the Company to bring suit to enforce such rights.

Section 17. Duration of Agreement. This Agreement continues until and terminates upon the later of: (a) ten (10) years after the date that Indemnitee ceases to have a Corporate Status or (b) one (1) year after the final termination of any Proceeding then pending in respect of which Indemnitee is granted rights of indemnification or advancement of Expenses hereunder and of any Proceeding commenced by Indemnitee pursuant to Section 14 of this Agreement relating thereto. The indemnification and advancement of Expenses rights provided by or granted pursuant to this Agreement are binding upon and be enforceable by the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns (including any direct or indirect successor by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise to all or substantially all of the business or assets of the Company), continue as to an Indemnitee who has ceased to be a director, officer, employee or Agent of the Company or of any other Enterprise, and inure to the benefit of Indemnitee and Indemnitee’s spouse, assigns, heirs, devisees, executors and administrators and other legal representatives.

Section 18. Severability. If any provision or provisions of this Agreement is held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable for any reason whatsoever: (a) the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Agreement (including without limitation, each portion of any Section of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, that is not itself invalid, illegal or unenforceable) will not in any way be affected or impaired thereby and remain enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law; (b) such provision or provisions will be deemed reformed to the extent necessary to conform to applicable law and to give the maximum effect to the intent of the parties hereto; and (c) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Agreement (including, without limitation, each portion of any Section of this Agreement containing any such provision held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, that is not itself invalid, illegal or unenforceable) will be construed so as to give effect to the intent manifested thereby.

Section 19. Interpretation. Any ambiguity in the terms of this Agreement will be resolved in favor of Indemnitee and in a manner to provide the maximum indemnification and advancement of Expenses permitted by law. The Company and Indemnitee intend that this Agreement provide to the fullest extent permitted by law for indemnification and advancement in excess of that expressly provided, without limitation, by the Certificate of Incorporation, the Bylaws, vote of the Company stockholders or disinterested directors, or applicable law.

Section 20. Enforcement.

(a) The Company expressly confirms and agrees that it has entered into this Agreement and assumed the obligations imposed on it hereby in order to induce Indemnitee to serve as a director or officer of the Company, and the Company acknowledges that Indemnitee is

 

-14-


relying upon this Agreement in serving or continuing to serve as a director or officer of the Company.

(b) This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior agreements and understandings, oral, written and implied, between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof; provided, however, that this Agreement is a supplement to and in furtherance of the Certificate of Incorporation, the Bylaws and applicable law, and is not a substitute therefor, nor to diminish or abrogate any rights of Indemnitee thereunder.

Section 21. Modification and Waiver. No supplement, modification or amendment of this Agreement is binding unless executed in writing by the parties hereto. No waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement will be deemed or constitutes a waiver of any other provisions of this Agreement nor will any waiver constitute a continuing waiver.

Section 22. Notice by Indemnitee. Indemnitee agrees promptly to notify the Company in writing upon being served with any summons, citation, subpoena, complaint, indictment, information or other document relating to any Proceeding or matter which may be subject to indemnification or advancement of Expenses covered hereunder. The failure of Indemnitee to so notify the Company does not relieve the Company of any obligation which it may have to the Indemnitee under this Agreement or otherwise.

Section 23. Notices. All notices, requests, demands and other communications under this Agreement will be in writing and will be deemed to have been duly given if (a) delivered by hand to the other party, (b) sent by reputable overnight courier to the other party or (c) sent by facsimile transmission or electronic mail, with receipt of oral confirmation that such communication has been received:

(a) If to Indemnitee, at the address indicated on the signature page of this Agreement, or such other address as Indemnitee provides to the Company.

(b) If to the Company to:

 

                         Name:    Tyra Biosciences, Inc.
  Address:    2656 State Street
     Carlsbad, CA 92008
  Attention:   
  Email:   

or to any other address as may have been furnished to Indemnitee by the Company.

Section 24. Contribution. To the fullest extent permissible under applicable law, if the indemnification provided for in this Agreement is unavailable to Indemnitee for any reason whatsoever, the Company, in lieu of indemnifying Indemnitee, will contribute to the amount incurred by Indemnitee, whether for judgments, fines, penalties, excise taxes, amounts paid or to be paid in settlement and/or for Expenses, in connection with any claim relating to an indemnifiable event under this Agreement, in such proportion as is deemed fair and reasonable in light of all of the circumstances of such Proceeding in order to reflect (i) the relative benefits

 

-15-


received by the Company and Indemnitee as a result of the event(s) and/or transaction(s) giving cause to such Proceeding; and/or (ii) the relative fault of the Company (and its directors, officers, employees and Agents) and Indemnitee in connection with such event(s) and/or transaction(s).

Section 25. Applicable Law and Consent to Jurisdiction. This Agreement and the legal relations among the parties are governed by, and construed and enforced in accordance with, the laws of the State of Delaware, without regard to its conflict of laws rules. Except with respect to any arbitration commenced by Indemnitee pursuant to Section 14(a) of this Agreement, the Company and Indemnitee hereby irrevocably and unconditionally (i) agree that any action or Proceeding arising out of or in connection with this Agreement may be brought only in the Delaware Court of Chancery and not in any other state or federal court in the United States of America or any court in any other country, (ii) consent to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Delaware Court for purposes of any action or Proceeding arising out of or in connection with this Agreement, (iii) waive any objection to the laying of venue of any such action or Proceeding in the Delaware Court, and (iv) waive, and agree not to plead or to make, any claim that any such action or Proceeding brought in the Delaware Court has been brought in an improper or inconvenient forum.

Section 26. Identical Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which will for all purposes be deemed to be an original but all of which together constitutes one and the same Agreement. Only one such counterpart signed by the party against whom enforceability is sought needs to be produced to evidence the existence of this Agreement.

Section 27. Headings. The headings of this Agreement are inserted for convenience only and do not constitute part of this Agreement or affect the construction thereof.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be signed as of the day and year first above written.

 

TYRA BIOSCIENCES, INC.     INDEMNITEE
By:                           

                     

Name:       Name:  
Office:       Address:                       
         
         

 

-16-

EX-23.1

Exhibit 23.1

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption “Experts” and to the use of our report dated May 28, 2021, in the Registration Statement (Form S-1) and related Prospectus of Tyra Biosciences, Inc. for the registration of shares of its common stock.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

San Diego, California

August 20, 2021