ARTICLE I

Name
This organization is incorporated under the laws of the State of Minnesota and named the East African Business Association, Inc.

ARTICLE II

Objectives
The East African Business Association (hereinafter “EABA”) is organized for the purpose of advancing the commercial, industrial, and general interests of the East African business community of Minnesota by:

1. Creating a better understanding and appreciation of the importance of the businessperson and a concern for their problems;
2. Creating a more well-informed business and public opinion of the business community’s legislative and political affairs;
3. Creating awareness and advocacy around legislation that impacts the expansion and growth of business and the communities within the trade area;
4. Developing/providing economic and training programs designed to strengthen and expand the income potential of all businesses within the trade areas.

ARTICLE III

Membership

Section 1: Classes of Membership:
The EABA shall be composed of Business Members and Honorary Members.

Section 2: Dues
The annual membership dues are $1,500.00.

Section 3: Eligibility
Any business, association, corporation, LLC, or partnership having an interest in the objectives of the Association shall be eligible to apply for membership.

Section 4: Requirements

1. Business Membership: Any person or business interested in the stated objectives of this Association and espousing a willingness to comply with these By-Laws may apply for membership.
   1. All applications are to be accompanied by a full payment of the annual dues.
   2. Business must be filed with the Minnesota Secretary of State and be in good standing.
   3. The fiscal year shall be the same as the calendar year ending Dec. 31.
   4. Lapsed membership may be renewed through the submission of a new application and payment of such fees as are determined by the EABA.
   5. Billings or accounts due to the Association shall be paid within thirty (30) days of such billing. Failure to resolve any open account within ninety (90) days shall result in loss of membership.
   6. Annual dues and rates shall be fixed by a vote of the EABA. Rates may be changes as necessary with notice to the membership communicated electronically at least thirty (30) days prior to such change.
2. Honorary Membership: Any individual of distinction who has rendered exceptional service to the Association or the community at large may be nominated by the EABA for Honorary Membership. Honorary membership shall include all the privileges of active membership except that of holding office and shall have exemption of paying all fees and dues.
3. Board of Advisors: The Executive Committee may designate as non-voting members, individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to the Association through past service and dedication.

Section 5: Termination.
Any member may be expelled by the EABA for conduct unbecoming of a member or conduct prejudicial to the aims of the Association. Dues are not refundable if less than six months remain on the member’s membership term.

ARTICLE IV

Fiscal Year

The fiscal year and the program year of the East African Business Association shall run from January 1 through December 31.

ARTICLE V

Organization

Section 1: Executive Committee
The Executive Committee shall have complete supervision of the Association.  The Executive Committee shall consist of the CEO, COO, and Controller.

ARTICLE VI

Committees

Various committees may be formed by the Executive Committee and will consist of members in good standing.

ARTICLE XII

Miscellaneous

Section 1: Structure
The Association is a privately held entity and not subject to any rules or regulations related to a non-profit organization.