Inuvo Inc

Note 1 – Organization and Business

Inuvo is an advertising technology and services company that has developed and commercialized large language generative artificial intelligence (AI) capable of discovering and targeting digital audiences. Inuvo’s innovative technology positions it as a leader within the advertising industry, offering a valuable solution to marketers seeking to navigate the evolving landscape of consumer privacy. The AI targets the reasons behind why people are interested in products, services and brands.

Inuvo sells its information technology solutions to agencies and brands (collectively, “Agencies & Brands”) along with large consolidators of advertising demand (“Platforms”). Inuvo’s revenue is derived from the placement of digital advertising across devices, websites, applications and browsers within social, search and programmatic advertising channels. Inuvo facilitates and gets paid to deliver advertising messages and counts among its client's numerous world-renowned companies across industries.

The AI, marketed as IntentKey was designed to replace the consumer data, analytics, segmentation and lookalike modeling technologies that have traditionally served the advertising industry as it transitions to a new paradigm where targeting based on a consumer’s identity and data are no longer possible due to the legislative and technological changes occurring.

Inuvo’s AI technology solves the identity challenge by leveraging artificial intelligence, data analytics, and automation that can optimize the purchase and placement of advertising in real time without consumer data. The technology can be consumed by clients as a managed service or self-service (SaaS). Additionally, Inuvo has developed proprietary technology and assets tailored to certain clients that include digital content, websites, automated campaigns, ad fraud detection, performance reporting, and predictive media mix modeling.

Both Agencies & Brands and Platforms benefit from Inuvo’s ability to intelligently process vast amounts of data, detect patterns in behavior, and enhance advertising efficiency whether through direct media execution or integration into existing campaign management systems. These capabilities are typically sold with services both individually and in combination with each other based on client needs. Agencies & Brands utilize our artificial intelligence-based consumer intent recognition system to reach highly targeted mobile and desktop In-Market audiences with precision. The solution can serve multiple creative formats including display, video, audio and native across multiple device types including desktop, mobile, tablet, connected/smart TV and game consoles. The technology can be consumed by clients as a managed service or self-service (SaaS). For our Platform clients we utilize a collection of data, analytics, software, content management and website creation technologies to align merchant advertising messages with online content.

Inuvo’s intellectual property is protected by 19 issued and eight pending patents.

Liquidity

Our principal sources of liquidity are the sale of our common stock and our credit facility discussed in Note 6 – Bank Debt.

On May 30, 2023, we raised $4.0 million in gross proceeds in a registered direct offering, before expenses, through the sale of an aggregate of 16,000,000 shares of our common stock. The shares were offered pursuant to an effective shelf registration statement on Form S-3 (the “Shelf Registration Statement”) and a prospectus supplement relating to the offering was filed with the SEC on May 26, 2023.

On May 7, 2024, we entered into an At The Market Offering Agreement (the “ATM Agreement”) with H.C. Wainwright & Co. LLC (“Wainwright”), to sell shares of our common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Shares”), having an aggregate sales price of up to $15,000,000, from time to time, through an “at the market offering” program under which Wainwright will act as sales agent. The sales, if any, of the Shares made under the ATM Agreement will be made by any method permitted by law deemed to be an “at the market offering” as defined in Rule 415 promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Company will pay Wainwright a commission rate of up to 3.0% of the aggregate gross proceeds from each sale of Shares. For the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company has not sold any shares of common stock under the ATM Agreement. In January 2025, the Company utilized the ATM Agreement and sold 1,594,313 shares of common stock for gross proceeds of $1,163,491. See Note 16 – Subsequent Events.

On July 31, 2024, we entered into a Financing and Security Agreement (the "Financing Agreement”) with SLR Digital Finance LLC ("SLR”), effective July 30, 2024. Pursuant to the terms of the Financing Agreement, SLR will finance up to $10 million dependent upon eligible receivables. See Note 6– Bank Debt.

As of December 31, 2024, we have approximately $2.5 million in cash, and cash equivalents. Our net working capital deficit was $2.2 million. We have encountered recurring losses and cash outflows from operations, which historically we have funded through equity offerings and debt facilities. For the year ended December 31, 2024 we had a net loss of $5.8 million and net cash flow provided by operations of $0.2 million. Additionally, our investment in investing activities totaled approximately $1.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. This amount primarily consists of internally developed software costs, which are largely comprised of fixed labor costs, along with other capitalized expenditures. Through December 31, 2024, our accumulated deficit was $173.2 million.

Management plans to support the Company’s future operations and capital expenditures primarily through cash generated from its credit facility until such time as we reach profitability. Any repayments of the financing agreement will be made through collections from eligible accounts receivable. We believe that our current cash position, credit facility, and the equity raised through our ATM program in January 2025 will be sufficient liquidity to sustain operations for at least the next twelve months from the date of this filing. If our plan to grow the IntentKey product is unsuccessful, we may need to fund operations through private or public sales of securities, debt financings or partnering/licensing transactions over the long term.

Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of presentation - The consolidated financial statements include our accounts and those of our wholly-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

Reclassifications - Certain amounts in the 2023 statement of cash flows have been reclassified to conform with the 2024 presentation. The impact to the 2023 change in accrued expenses and other liabilities was a decrease of $67,870, and there was no impact to net cash used in operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2023.

Cash and cash equivalents - Cash and cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.

Revenue recognition - We generate revenue by identifying audiences and presenting advertisements on behalf of our customers. We provide our products, technologies and services to Agencies & Brands and Platforms. Currently, revenue from Agencies & Brands is primarily through our IntentKey products and services and revenue from Platforms is primarily through our Bonfire products and services. Our revenue is derived from the placements of advertisements across advertising channels, browsers, applications and devices. Pricing for those advertisement placements is typically either on a cost-per-click or cost per thousand impressions basis.

Our revenue is a function of the number of advertisements placed combined with the price we obtain (using our technologies) for the placements made on behalf of our clients. We assume the risk associated of finding placements at a cost below that for which it had been sold.

We recognize revenue when control of the contracted services or product is transferred to our customer, in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those services or products. We determine revenue recognition through (i) identification of a contract with a customer, (ii) identification of the performance obligations in the contract, (iii) determination of the transaction price, (iv) allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract, and (v) recognition of revenue when or as the performance obligations are satisfied.

For Agencies & Brands, the terms of an agreement are captured in an Insertion Order ("IO") where revenue is recognized upon delivery of services during the period covered by the IO. For Platforms, terms are generally captured in multi-year master service agreements and revenue is recognized based on the number of advertisements placed or clicked on in the period they occur. We settle advertisement placement prices with our customers net of any adjustments for quality.

In the year ended December 31, 2024, we generated $83,793,859 in revenue of which 82.8% was from Platforms,17.2% from Agencies & Brands. In the year ended December 31, 2023, we generated $73,911,528 in revenue of which 79.1% was from Platforms, 20.9% from Agencies & Brands.

Accounts receivable - Accounts receivable consist of trade receivables from customers. We record accounts receivable at its net realizable value, recognizing an allowance for doubtful accounts based on our best estimate of expected credit losses on our existing accounts receivable. Balances are written off against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the possibility of recovery is considered remote. The current expected credit loss (CECL) model under Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2016-13 requires an estimation of expected credit losses over the life of a financial instrument, taking into consideration historical experience, current conditions, and reasonable and supportable forecasts. Management has reviewed comprehensive historical data, any relevant economic indicator, and estimated our estimated credit loss based off these probabilities. The following table presents accounts receivable, net of allowance for credit losses:

Cost of revenue - Cost of revenue is primarily composed of payments to advertising exchanges that provide access to digital inventory where we serve advertisements primarily for Agencies and Brands. To a lesser extent, cost of revenue includes payments to website publishers and app developers that host advertisements.

Marketing costs - Marketing costs are predominately traffic acquisition costs and include those expenses required to attract an audience to our owned and operated applications and websites. We expense these costs as incurred and present them as a separate line item in operating expenses in the consolidated statements of operations.

Property and equipment - Property and equipment are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization. Major renewals and improvements are capitalized while maintenance and repairs which do not improve or extend the life of the respective assets are expensed as incurred. Costs of assets sold or retired and the related accumulated depreciation are eliminated from accounts and the net gain or loss is reflected as an operating expense in the consolidated statements of operations.

Property and equipment are depreciated on a straight-line basis over three years for equipment, five to seven years for furniture and fixtures and two to three years for software. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the lesser of the estimated useful life of the asset or the remaining term of the lease. Depreciation and amortization expense was $1,745,261 and $1,670,868, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.

Capitalized Software Costs - We capitalize certain labor costs related to internally developed software and amortize these costs using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the software, generally two years. We do not sell internally developed software. Certain development costs not meeting the criteria for capitalization, in accordance withASC 350-40 Internal-Use Software, are expensed as incurred. Capitalized software development costs were $1.8 million and $1.7 million, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.

Goodwill - Goodwill is recorded as the difference, if any, between the aggregate consideration paid for an acquisition and the fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired. We periodically conduct a review of long-lived assets to assess potential triggering events for impairment within the Inuvo reporting unit. We perform an impairment test annually as of December 31, 2024. As a result, we perform our annual goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of our reporting unit with its carrying amount.

We have only one reporting unit and generally determine the fair value of this reporting unit using the income approach methodology of valuation that includes the undiscounted cash flow method as well as other generally accepted valuation methodologies. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, the amount it exceeds fair value is equivalent to the amount of impairment loss.

We determined there was no impairment of goodwill during 2024 and 2023.

See Note 5 – Intangible Assets and Goodwill, for more information.

Intangible Assets - We allocate a portion of the purchase price of acquisitions to identifiable intangible assets and we amortize definite-lived assets over their estimated useful lives. We consider our indefinite-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Trade names are not amortized as they are believed to have an indefinite life. Trade names are reviewed annually for impairment under ASC 350. We also acquire intangible assets outside of acquisitions and record them at their fair value and amortize them over their estimated useful lives.

We recorded no impairment of intangible assets during 2024 or 2023.

See Note 5 – Intangible Assets and Goodwill, for more information.

Income taxes - We utilize the liability method of accounting for income taxes as set forth inASC 740,Income Taxes (“ASC 740”). Under the liability method, deferred taxes are determined based on the temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities. A valuation allowance is recorded when it is more likely than not that some of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. In assessing the need for a valuation allowance, we must project future levels of taxable income. We examine evidence related to the history of taxable losses or income, the economic conditions in which we operate, organizational characteristics, our forecasts and projections, as well as factors affecting liquidity. All our deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded as long-term assets and liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets. We believe it is more likely than not that essentially none of our deferred tax assets will be realized, and we have recorded a valuation for a significant portion of the net deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.

We have adopted certain provisions of ASC 740. This statement clarifies the criteria that an individual tax position must satisfy for some or all of the benefits of that position to be recognized in a company’s financial statements. ASC 740 prescribes a recognition threshold of more likely than not, and a measurement attribute for all tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return, in order to be recognized in the financial statements. We recognize interest and penalties related to income taxes in income tax expense. We have incurred no penalties or interest for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.

Impairment of long-lived assets - In accordance withASC 360,Property, Plant and Equipment, long-lived assets, such as property and equipment, and purchased intangibles subject to amortization, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of the asset is measured by comparison of the carrying amount to future undiscounted cash flows the asset is expected to generate. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value.

Stock-based compensation - We recognize stock compensation based on the recognition provisionsASC 718,Compensation – Stock Compensation, which establishes accounting for stock-based awards exchanged for employee and non-employee services and requires companies to expense the estimated grant date fair value of stock awards over the requisite employee service period.

The fair value of restricted stock unit awards is based on the market price of our common stock on the date of the grant. To value stock option awards, we use the Black-Scholes-Merton option pricing model. This model involves assumptions including the expected life of the option, stock price volatility, risk-free interest rate, dividend yield and exercise price. We recognize compensation expense in earnings over the requisite service period, applying a forfeiture rate to account for expected forfeitures of awards.

See Note 10, Stock-Based Compensation, for further details on our stock awards.

Government Grant- During the first quarter of 2013, we received a grant from the state of Arkansas to relocate our corporate headquarters to Conway, AR. We recognized the grant funds into income as a reduction of the related expense in the period in which those expenses were recognized. We deferred grant funds related to capitalized costs and classified them as current or long-term liabilities on the balance sheet according to the classification of the associated asset. The agreement concluded on March 31, 2024, and as of December 31, 2024, all obligations were satisfied, and no liability remains outstanding. As of December 31, 2023, we recorded a $35,000 liability which was satisfied in 2024.

Earnings per share - During the periods presented, we had securities that could potentially dilute basic earnings per share in the future but were excluded from the computation of diluted net loss per share, as their effect would have been anti-dilutive. We reported a net loss for 2024 and 2023 and therefore, shares associated with stock options, restricted stock units and convertible debt are not included because they are anti-dilutive. Basic and diluted net loss per share is the same for all periods presented.

Operating segments -* In accordance withASC 280* - Segment reporting, segment information reported is built on the basis of internal management data used for performance analysis of businesses and for the allocation of resources. Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker, or decision-making group, in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. Our chief operating decision maker, our chief executive officer, reviews financial information presented on a consolidated basis and no expense or operating income is evaluated at a segment level. Given the consolidated level of review by our chief executive officer, we operate as one reportable segment.

Concentration of credit risk - We are exposed to concentrations of risk primarily in cash and accounts receivable, which are generally not collateralized. Our policy is to place our cash with high credit, quality financial institutions in order to limit the amount of credit exposure. Our cash deposits exceed FDIC limits. We do not require collateral from our customers, but our credit extension and collection policies include monitoring payments and aggressively pursuing delinquent accounts. We maintain allowances for potential credit losses.

Customer concentrations - In 2024, we had one individual customer with revenue concentration greater than 10% of our total revenues accounting for 75.0%, respectively. At December 31, 2024, we had two individual customers greater than 10% of our total accounts receivable balance accounting for 58.5% and 12.6%, respectively.

In 2023, we had two individual customers with revenue concentration greater than 10% of our total revenue accounting for 60.4% and 12.8%, respectively. At December 31, 2023, we had one customer greater than 10% of our total accounts receivable balance accounting for 50.5%.

Vendor concentrations- In 2024, we had three individual vendors with cost of revenue concentration greater than 10% of our total cost of revenue accounting for 59.6%,25.6%, and 10.3% of the total cost of revenue, respectively.

In 2023, we had two individual vendors with cost of revenue concentration greater than 10% of our total cost of revenue accounting for 67.6% and 15.3% of the total cost of revenue, respectively.

Use of estimates - The preparation of financial statements, in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, net revenues and expenses and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. The estimates and assumptions used in the accompanying consolidated financial statements are based upon management’s regular evaluation of the relevant facts and circumstances as of the date of the consolidated financial statements. The most significant estimates and assumptions affecting the financial statements relate to capitalized software, allowance for credit losses, and income tax valuation allowance. Actual results may differ from the estimates and assumptions used in preparing the accompanying consolidated financial statements, and such differences could be material.

Litigation and settlement costs - From time to time, we are involved in disputes, litigation and other legal actions. In accordance withASC 450,Contingencies, we record a charge equal to at least the minimum estimated liability for a loss contingency when both of the following conditions are met: (i) information available prior to issuance of the consolidated financial statements indicates that it is probable that an asset had been impaired or a liability had been incurred as of the date of the consolidated financial statements and (ii) the range of loss can be reasonably estimated.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In November 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued ASU No. 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures, which requires retrospective disclosure of significant segment expenses and other segment items on an annual and interim basis. Additionally, it requires disclosure of the title and position of the Chief Operating Decision Maker (“CODM”). This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2023, and for interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. See Note 12 for the impact of adoption of this accounting pronouncement.

In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures, which requires an annual tabular effective tax rate reconciliation disclosure including information for specified categories and jurisdiction levels, as well as, disclosure of income taxes paid, net of refunds received, disaggregated by federal, state/local, and significant foreign jurisdiction. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The adoption will have an impact on disclosures and not impact the Company’s consolidated results of operations, cash flows, nor financial position.

Note 3 – Allowance for Credit Losses

The activity in the allowance for credit losses was as follows during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023:

The allowance for credit losses at December 31, 2024 was $144,625, a decrease of $1,500,420 from December 31, 2023. During 2024, we made an adjustment to the allowance for expected credit losses for a balance due from a former client in 2022.

The client has since paid off their full outstanding balance and no longer has any obligation to us as of December 31, 2024.

Note 4– Property and Equipment

The net carrying value of property and equipment at December 31, 2024 and 2023 was as follows:

Depreciation and amortization expense was $1,745,261 and $1,670,868, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. During the year ended December 31, 2024, we disposed of approximately $169,000 of fully depreciated equipment that was no longer in use. There was no cash inflow or outflow associated with this transaction, and no gain or loss was recorded.

Note 5 – Intangible Assets and Goodwill

The following is a schedule of intangible assets and goodwill as of December 31, 2024:

The following is a schedule of intangible assets and goodwill as of December 31, 2023:

Our amortization expense over the next five years and thereafter is as follows:

Note 6 - Bank Debt

On March 1, 2023, we entered into Amendment No. 1 to Loan and Security Agreement and Collateral Documents (“Agreement”) with Mitsubishi HC Capital America, Inc., f/k/a/ Hitachi Capital America Corp. (“MHCA”). Under the terms of the Agreement, MHCA provided us with a $5,000,000 line of credit commitment. We were permitted to borrow up to 85% of the aggregate Eligible Accounts Receivable, up to the maximum credit commitment of $5,000,000. We paid MHCA monthly interest at the rate of 1.75% in excess of the Wall Street Journal Prime Rate. We paid MHCA an amendment fee of $10,000 on issuance of the Agreement, and thereafter an annual commitment fee of $10,000. We also paid MHCA a quarterly service fee of 0.20% on the monthly unused amount of the maximum credit line. All obligations to MHCA have been satisfied and the Agreement was terminated on July 31, 2024. At December 31, 2024 and 2023, there were no outstanding balances due under the Agreement.

On July 30, 2024, we entered into a Financing and Security Agreement and Collateral Documents (“Financing Agreement”) with SLR Digital Finance LLC (“SLR”). Under the terms of the Financing Agreement, SLR has provided us with a $10,000,000 line of credit commitment. We are permitted to borrow up to 90% of eligible accounts receivable as defined in the Financing Agreement, up to the maximum credit commitment of $10,000,000. Availability as of December 31, 2024 equaled the maximum credit commitment of $10,000,000. We will pay SLR monthly interest at the rate of 1.0% in excess of the Prime Rate but not less than 7%. The Prime Rate was 7.5% as of December 31, 2024. The Financing Agreement has a three year term. The Financing Agreement contains certain affirmative and negative covenants to which we are also subject. We agreed to pay SLR an annual facility fee of 0.80% of the maximum credit commitment. We also agreed to pay a minimum utilization amount of the interest rate multiplied by difference between $500,000 and the average daily outstanding loan during a month. We are obligated to pay SLR a monthly service fee of 0.15% of the average net amount of outstanding loans during each month. If we terminate the Financing Agreement prior to the second anniversary of the effective date, an amount equal to 1.0% of the maximum credit commitment will be due as an early termination payment and if we terminate after the second anniversary of the effective date but prior to the end of the term, an amount equal to 0.25% of the maximum credit commitment will be due. Repayment of the financing agreement will be made through collections from eligible accounts receivable.

At December 31, 2024, the outstanding balances due under the Financing Agreement was $0.

Note 7 – Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities consist of the following at December 31, 2024 and 2023:

Note 8 - Commitments

On September 17, 2021, we signed a multi-year agreement with a business development partner to provide referral and support services to us. The agreement required an advance fee of $1.5 million. The advance was being amortized as marketing expenses over five years. During the year ended December 31, 2024, we recorded an impairment to the asset bringing the balance to $0, as no significant revenue has been realized within 2024 and therefore management determined future revenue under this arrangement is uncertain. As of December 31, 2023, $700,000 had been amortized and the balance was $800,000.

Note 9 - Income Taxes

The provision for income taxes consists of the following at December 31, 2024 and 2023:

A reconciliation of the expected federal statutory rate to our actual rate as reported for each of the periods presented is as follows:

Deferred Income Taxes

Deferred income taxes are the result of temporary differences between book and tax basis of certain assets and liabilities, timing of income and expense recognition of certain items and net operating loss carry-forwards. For the year ended December 31, 2024, we recognized a deferred tax expense of $8,030. For the year ended December 31, 2023, we recognized a deferred tax benefit of $17,764.

When required, we record a liability for unrecognized tax positions, defined as the aggregate tax effect of differences between positions taken on tax returns and the benefits recognized in the financial statements. Tax positions are measured at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than fifty percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. No tax benefits are recognized for positions that do not meet this threshold. We have no uncertain tax positions that require us to record a liability.

We assess temporary differences resulting from different treatments of items for tax and accounting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are recorded in the consolidated balance sheets. We evaluate the realizability of our deferred tax assets on a regular basis, an exercise that requires significant judgment. In the course of this evaluation, we considered our recent history of tax losses, the economic conditions in which we operate, recent organizational changes and our forecasts and projections. We believe it is more likely than not that essentially none of our deferred tax assets will be realized, and we have recorded a valuation allowance for a significant portion of the net deferred tax assets that may not be realized as of December 31, 2024 and 2023.

The following is a schedule of the deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2024 and 2023:

The net operating losses amounted to approximately $112.8 million and expire beginning 2026 through 2038. Included in the federal net operating loss carryforwards are $44.3 million generated from 2018 to 2024 that will not expire and are limited to offset 80% of our taxable income for years beginning after December 31, 2020.

As of December 31, 2024, the Company has a net deferred tax liability of $97,266. The net deferred tax liability is due to goodwill that is amortized for tax purposes and a trade name that has an indefinite life, of which both are not being amortized for book purposes.

The deferred tax liability relating to goodwill and trade name can only be offset by 30% of interest limited by 163(j), the remainder, can be offset by up to 80% by NOLs generated in tax years ending December 31, 2018 and beyond, subject to IRC Section 382 limitations. The remaining portion that cannot be used remains as a liability. In future years, if the deferred tax assets are determined by management to be “more likely than not” to be realized, the recognized tax benefits relating to the reversal of the valuation allowance as of December 31, 2024 will be recorded.

Under the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, the net operating loss carryforwards are subject to review and possible adjustment by the Internal Revenue Service and state tax authorities. Net operating loss carryforwards may become subject to an annual limitation in the event of certain cumulative changes in the ownership interest of significant shareholders over a three-year period in excess of 50%, as defined under Sections 382 and 383 of the Internal Revenue Code, respectively, as well as similar state provisions. This could limit the amount of tax attributes that can be utilized annually to offset future taxable income or tax liabilities. The amount of the annual limitation is determined based on the value of the Company immediately prior to the ownership change. Subsequent ownership changes may further affect the limitation in future years. The Company has not conducted a study to assess whether a change of control has occurred or whether there have been multiple changes of control since inception due to the significant complexity and cost associated with such a study. If the Company has experienced a change of control, as defined by Section 382, at any time since inception, utilization of the net operating loss carryforwards would be subject to an annual limitation under Section 382, which is determined by first multiplying the value of the Company’s stock at the time of the ownership change by the applicable long-term tax-exempt rate, and then could be subject to additional adjustments, as required. Any limitation may result in expiration of a portion of the net operating loss carryforwards before utilization. Further, until a study is completed by the Company and any limitation is known, no amounts are being presented as an uncertain tax position.

The Company’s tax returns are subject to tax examinations by U.S. federal and state tax authorities until the respective statutes of limitation expire. The Company is subject to tax examinations by tax authorities for all taxation years commencing on or after 2006. Carryforward attributes generated in all years since inception remain subject to adjustment. Our state income tax returns are open to audit under the statute of limitations for the same periods.

Note 10 - Stock-Based Compensation

We maintain a stock-based compensation program intended to attract, retain and provide incentives for talented employees and directors and align stockholder and employee interests. During the 2024 and 2023 periods, we granted restricted stock units ("RSUs") from the 2017 Equity Compensation Plan, as amended (“2017 ECP”). RSU vesting periods are generally up to three years and/or achieving certain financial targets.

On January 1, 2022, in accordance with the plan provisions, the number of shares available for issuance under the 2017 ECP was increased by 150,000 shares. On June 16, 2022, our stockholders approved an amendment to the 2017 ECP to cease the annual increase of 150,000 shares and a one time increase of the number of shares of our common stock reserved for issuance by 15,000,000 shares. As of December 31, 2024, the total number of shares of our common stock reserved for issuance under the 2017 ECP was 24,550,000.

Compensation Expense

We recorded stock-based compensation expense for all equity incentive plans of $1,501,444 and $1,986,296 for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively. Total compensation cost not yet recognized at December 31, 2024 was $2,192,992 which will be recognized over the next three years.

The following table summarizes the stock grants outstanding under our 2017 ECP plan as of December 31, 2024:

The fair value of restricted stock units is determined using market value of the common stock on the date of the grant. The fair value of stock options is determined using the Black-Scholes-Merton valuation model. The use of this valuation model involves assumptions that are judgmental and highly sensitive in the determination of compensation expense and include the expected life of the option, stock price volatility, risk-free interest rate, dividend yield, exercise price, and forfeiture rate. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of valuation and reduce expense ratably over the vesting period. The forfeiture rate, which is estimated at a weighted average of 0% of unvested options outstanding, is adjusted periodically based on the extent to which actual forfeitures differ, or are expected to differ, from the previous estimate.

The following table summarizes the weighted average assumptions for our granted options and RSUs. There were no options granted in the period ended December 31, 2024.

The following table summarizes our restricted stock unit activity for 2024:

Note 11 – Stockholders' Equity

Common Stock

On May 30, 2023, we raised $4.0 million in gross proceeds in a registered direct offering, before expenses, through the sale of an aggregate of 16,000,000 shares of our common stock.

Warrants

On September 17, 2021, we signed an agreement with a marketing platform and consulting company to provide referral and support services to us for a period of five years (see Note 8 – Commitments). As part of that agreement, we granted a seven year warrant exercisable into 300,000 shares of our common stock, at $0.72 per share, which vests in two tranches when certain performance metrics are achieved. The warrant was valued using the Black Scholes option pricing model at a total of $149,551 based on a seven-year term, an implied volatility of 100%, a risk-free equivalent yield of 1.17%, and a stock price of $0.71. The warrant is classified as equity and will be expensed over the vesting period of each tranche if the performance criteria are achieved. On August 31, 2022,85,862 shares vested in accordance with the contracted performance criteria. On August 31, 2023,21,136 shares vested. For the second tranche, we reversed approximately $7,900 for the year ended December 31, 2023 due to a change in the probability of performance criteria being achieved. In accordance with our agreement, after the second anniversary of the original issue date of the warrants, any interests in warrant shares that have not vested pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreement were deemed forfeited and shall never become exercisable. At the period ended December 31, 2024, approximately 193,000 shares have been forfeited and approximately 107,000 shares underlying the warrant have vested.

Earnings per Share

During the 2024 and 2023, we generated a net loss from continuing operations and as a result, all of our shares are anti-dilutive.

Note 12 – Segment Reporting

Inuvo, Inc. (the "Company") operates as a single reportable segment that places digital advertising throughout devices, websites, applications and browsers across social, search and programmatic advertising channels, facilitating the delivery of millions of advertising messages monthly. The Chief Operating Decision Maker ("CODM"), identified as the Chief Executive Officer, evaluates the Company's financial performance and makes resource allocation decisions based on consolidated financial information

Measure of Segment Profit or Loss

The CODM evaluates performance and allocates resources based on contribution margin, which is calculated as revenue after deducting marketing expenses, exchange fees, and publisher payments. Exchange fees and publisher payments are classified as cost of revenue. The resulting contribution margin covers Inuvo's fixed costs and profit.

Significant Segment Expenses

The Company reports total revenue and significant expenses provided to the CODM, which include cost of revenue, marketing, and compensation expenses. These expenses are regularly reviewed to assess operating performance. The following table presents these expenses:

Other segment expenses include facilities costs, travel and entertainment expenses and various other corporate expenses.

Geographic Information

The Company's operations are based in the United States, and substantially all revenue is derived from U.S. clients.

Note 13 – Retirement Plan Costs

We provide a 401(k) plan to help our employees prepare for retirement where we matched each employee's contributions to the plan up to the first four % of the employee's annual salary. The matching contribution for the years ended 2024 and 2023 was $383,649 and $370,782, respectively.

Note 14 – Leases

We have entered into operating and finance leases primarily for real estate and equipment rental. These leases have terms which range from three years to six years, and often include one or more options to renew or in the case of equipment rental, to purchase the equipment. These operating and finance leases are listed as separate line items on our consolidated balance sheets and represent our right to use the underlying asset for the lease term. Our obligations to make lease payments are also listed as separate line items on our consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, total operating and financed right-of use assets were $913,439 and $18,209, and $805,786 and $72,560, respectively.

For the years-ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, we recorded $54,356 and $96,190 in amortization expense related to finance leases.

For the years-ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, we recorded $334,243 and $358,667 respectively, in rent expense related to operating leases.

In May 2023, we entered into an agreement to lease 4,128 square feet of office space in San Jose, CA commencing on September 1, 2023. The lease has a term ofsixty-five months with an abatement period of five months and will cost approximately $208,000 during its first year. Thereafter, the lease payments increase by 3%.

In January 2024, we amended and renewed our lease at our corporate headquarters in Little Rock, Arkansas. The lease was extended forthirty-six months commencing on February 1, 2024 and expiring on January 31, 2027 and will cost approximately $127,000 during its first year. Thereafter, the lease payments increase by 2% annually.

Because the rate implicit in each lease is not readily determinable, we use our incremental borrowing rate to determine the present value of the lease payments.

Information related to our operating lease liabilities for are as follows:

Information related to our financed lease liabilities are as follows:

Note 15 - Related Parties

During August 2023, we entered into a referral agreement with a board member of the Company. An initial fee of $15,000 was agreed upon, payable upon the execution of the agreement. Subsequently, a monthly retainer of $5,000, paid in advance, was established, starting from September 1, 2023. Either party has the right to terminate this agreement at any time and for any reason. Termination requires fourteen (14) days written notice to be provided to the other party. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2024, we recognized approximately $15,000 in expense. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2023, we recognized approximately $35,000 in expense.

During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company engaged in a transaction with First Orion Corp., a company in which one of our directors holds a significant interest. The transaction involved the sale of services amounting to approximately $95,000. These transactions were conducted in the ordinary course of business.

During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company engaged in a transaction with James & James, a company in which one of our directors holds a significant interest. The transaction involved the sale of services amounting to approximately $170,000. These transactions were conducted in the ordinary course of business.

Note 16 - Subsequent Event

In January 2025, Inuvo, Inc. utilized the ATM Agreement (see Note 1 – Organization and Business) and we sold 1,594,313 shares of common stock for gross proceeds of $1,163,491. The ATM program allows the Company to raise capital from time to time through sales of common stock at prevailing market prices, subject to volume limitations and market conditions. The proceeds from the ATM offering are intended to be used for general corporate purposes, including working capital, strategic investments, and operational expansion.