North Dakota Clauses Relating to Transfers of Venture interests — including Rights of First Refusal In North Dakota, the state has established specific clauses relating to transfers of venture interests. One key aspect of these clauses is the inclusion of rights of first refusal, which aim to protect the interests of existing venture partners when a transfer of venture interest is being proposed. These provisions help maintain stability and control within the venture agreement. Rights of first refusal refer to the right of existing venture partners to be given the opportunity to purchase or acquire the interest being transferred before it can be sold or assigned to a third party. This clause gives the current partners the first chance to maintain their percentage ownership and control over the venture. North Dakota recognizes two primary types of clauses relating to transfers of venture interests, including rights of first refusal: 1. Mandatory Rights of First Refusal: This type of clause makes it obligatory for the transferor (the partner wishing to sell or transfer their interest) to offer the interest to the other existing partners first. The existing partners must be given a reasonable opportunity to accept or refuse the offer. If all the existing partners decline the offer, only then can the transferor seek to sell or assign their interest to a third party. 2. Permissive Rights of First Refusal: This type of clause provides the existing partners with the option, but not the obligation, to acquire the interest being transferred. The transferor does not have a mandatory duty to offer the interest to existing partners, but instead, has the freedom to explore alternative options for selling or assigning the interest. If the existing partners choose to exercise their right of first refusal, they can match the terms and conditions offered by a third-party purchaser. The purpose of these clauses is to preserve the stability and continuity of the venture by ensuring that the existing partners have the opportunity to maintain their ownership and control. These provisions also prevent the introduction of unknown or potentially incompatible partners into the venture, as the existing partners can exert influence over who may join the venture. It's important for individuals involved in ventures in North Dakota to carefully review and understand the specific clauses relating to transfers of venture interests, including rights of first refusal. Seek legal advice to ensure compliance with the state's regulations and to protect the interests of all parties involved in the venture.