Indigenous Founder Code of Ethics

 

This Code of Ethics outlines the values and responsibilities expected of participants in Nakotah Indigenous Enterprise initiatives. The purpose is to protect Indigenous knowledge, community integrity, and the collective wellbeing of Indigenous peoples.

1. Community Responsibility

Participants recognise that Indigenous enterprise is not solely an individual pursuit. Founders are encouraged to build initiatives that respect and strengthen their communities.

2. Cultural Integrity

Participants commit to respecting Indigenous cultures, traditions, languages, and knowledge systems. Cultural knowledge shared within the programme must not be misrepresented or commercialised in ways that harm communities.

3. Respectful Collaboration

Participants will engage with fellow founders, mentors, and communities respectfully, recognising the diversity of Indigenous experiences and perspectives.

4. Ethical Enterprise Development

Enterprises developed within the Nakotah ecosystem should prioritise longterm wellbeing over shortterm extraction. Participants are encouraged to consider environmental, cultural, and social impacts.

5. Protection of Indigenous Knowledge

Traditional knowledge shared in confidence must remain protected. Participants agree not to exploit or appropriate knowledge belonging to other communities.

6. Leadership and Accountability

Founders participating in Nakotah initiatives are expected to lead with integrity, transparency, and accountability.

By participating in Nakotah programmes, founders agree to uphold these principles and contribute to an ecosystem of Indigenousled enterprise grounded in respect and reciprocity.