Startup Grind, both the company and the people we represent -- our employees, startups, Chapter Directors, sponsors, speakers, attendees -- must hold themselves to the highest standards as members of the Startup Grind community. We recognize that each of us is an ambassador for Startup Grind and reflects the organization and it’s values in our actions. As part of the Startup Grind global community, we must act justly and respectfully at all times. Those who do not abide by this Code of Conduct may be removed from the Startup Grind community and/or organization.
The Startup Grind Code of Conduct revolves around our three key values:
Integrity. Startup Grind employees are expected to act and perform their duties ethically and honestly and with the utmost integrity. We strive to be transparent in all of our communications. Our reputation as a company that our community can trust is our most valuable asset, and it is up to all of us to make sure that we continually earn that trust.
Privacy Policy. Our community trusts us with their personal information, and, in turn, we use all of the appropriate measures at our disposal to secure it. We respect requests for privacy and confidentiality. You can read more about our privacy policy here.
Anti-discrimination. We strictly prohibit unlawful discrimination or harassment* on the basis of race, color, religion, veteran status, national origin, ancestry, pregnancy status, sex, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, mental or physical disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, or any other characteristics protected by law. We will take disciplinary action for any employee or community member who violates this Code of Conduct.
Anti-Racism. We have a zero tolerance policy for racism, and perpetuating or endorsing racism are grounds for immediate dismissal. Anyone found not “standing up” against racism may also be found to be in violation of the code of conduct in certain circumstances. Stand up and speak up.
Harassment, Discrimination, Bullying. Startup Grind prohibits discrimination, harassment and bullying in any form – verbal, physical, or visual. If you believe you’ve been bullied or harassed by anyone in our community, we strongly encourage you to immediately report the incident to Startup Grind Leadership. We will promptly and thoroughly investigate any complaints and take appropriate action.
Any attendee, speaker, partner, or staff member demonstrating harassment in the form of live chat, social media posts, networking booths, or direct messages will be asked to stop immediately and removed from the event if it continues.
Equal Opportunity & Fair Pay. Employment here is based solely upon individual merit and qualifications directly related to professional competence. We ensure fair pay for equal work and agree to compensate our employees without regard to ability status, age, ancestry, civil union, class, color, ethnicity, familial status, gender, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, military service, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or other legally-protected status.
Responsiveness. We keep our promises and strive to respond to all inquiries and concerns as soon as possible.
Conflicts of Interest. We work for our company and partners, not for our own personal benefit. Startup Grind employees and community leaders commit to avoiding conflicts of interest that could allow them personal benefit at the expense of the Startup Grind community. Anyone at Startup Grind who is aware of a conflict of interest, or is concerned that a conflict might develop, is required to discuss the matter with Leadership.
Supportive Work & Event Environment. We commit to a supportive, open, and welcoming workplace and event environment that reflect a culture free of harassment, intimidation, bias, and unlawful discrimination. We enable all in our community to feel free to express their opinions, concerns, and needs with an expectation that they will be heard and respected. We communicate professionally and appropriately at all times.
Avoid Gossip. We do not speak ill of others. We have each other’s back. We are constructive in our feedback and will always provide it directly to the individual or company to which it pertains.
No means no. We respect “no” as an answer and decision when it is made.
Diversity. We encourage diversity and are committed to building inclusive environments at our company and at our events that reflect the diversity of people and cultures we see in the world and in our global community.
Diversity and equality are foundational values that we draw upon when envisioning better events, programs and ultimately a stronger global community. Our team is committed to striving for equal representation of BIPOC and underrepresented individuals in the work that we do.
Diversity, including but not limited to gender, race, geography, will continue to guide our work in the following ways: inviting speakers and attendees to conferences and events, accepting startups into programs and memberships, selecting directors to lead chapters, featuring individuals on our blog and social channels, hiring vendors and team members, to name a few.
Through all of the above and more, we will continue to use our platform to demonstrate the importance and expectation of diversity and equality in this industry. We accept the role as a leader in the space - educating, connecting, and elevating startups and entrepreneurs of all types - recognizing and celebrating our differences, creating a more diverse and inclusive community for all.
Accountability. We stick to our word. We respect the legal agreements we sign and do our best to fulfill on all obligations. If we can’t keep our commitments for some reason, then we strive to make it right in every way possible.
Safe Workplace. We are committed to a violence-free work environment, and we will not tolerate any level of violence or the threat of violence in the workplace. Under no circumstances should anyone bring a weapon to work or an event. If you become aware of a violation of this policy, you should report it immediately.
Drugs & Alcohol. Consumption of alcohol is not banned at our events, but we expect good judgment and appropriate behavior that would never compromise performance, endanger the safety of others, or violate the law. Substance abuse, illegal drugs, and underage drinking in our offices or at our events is strictly prohibited.
Stand Up. We appropriately intervene in situations when we witness violations of this Code and will report such violations and in some instances, recognize our stance in whatever way we feel obligated to.
Conclusion. Startup Grind is a human-first company. It’s impossible to spell out every possible ethical scenario we might face. Instead, we rely on one another’s good judgment to uphold a high standard of integrity for ourselves and our company. We expect everyone at Startup Grind -- the company and our community -- to represent our values and abide by this Code of Conduct in everything we do. Any violation of this Code may result in disciplinary action, including termination, and if warranted, legal proceedings. This Code is a statement of certain fundamental principles, policies and procedures that govern the way we run our business.
If you have witnessed a violation of our Code of Conduct please report it to Startup Grind Leadership. If you have a question or concern, don’t just sit there. You can contact your manager, or Startup Grind Leadership. Finally, if you believe a violation of law has occurred, you can always raise that to Startup Grind Leadership or with a government agency.
Harassment includes, but is not limited to:
