Purpose
This policy exists to protect the integrity, trust, and mission of Stimpunks Foundation. A conflict of interest arises when personal, financial, or organizational interests could improperly influence—or appear to influence—decision-making on behalf of Stimpunks Foundation.
Because Stimpunks Foundation is community-rooted and relationship-rich, conflicts are expected to arise. The goal of this policy is not to eliminate relationships, but to name, manage, and document conflicts transparently and ethically.
Guiding Principles
- Transparency over secrecy. Conflicts should be disclosed early and openly.
- Lived experience matters. Community ties are a strength, not a flaw.
- No punishment for disclosure. Naming a conflict is responsible behavior.
- Accountability without shame. We manage conflicts through process, not blame.
- Mission first. Decisions must prioritize Stimpunks Foundation’s purpose and values.
Who This Policy Applies To
This policy applies to:
- Board members (if applicable)
- Staff and contractors
- Volunteers with decision-making authority
- Advisors or collaborators acting on behalf of Stimpunks Foundation
What Counts as a Conflict of Interest
A conflict of interest may be actual, potential, or perceived.
Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Financial interests in vendors, partners, or funders
- Employment, consulting, or leadership roles in organizations that intersect with Stimpunks Foundation’s work
- Receiving gifts, payments, or benefits connected to organizational decisions
Having a conflict does not mean wrongdoing. Failing to disclose one does.
Disclosure Requirements
Individuals covered by this policy must:
- Disclose any actual or potential conflicts as soon as they arise
- Update disclosures if circumstances change
- Err on the side of disclosure when unsure
Disclosures may be made:
- In writing
- During meetings where relevant decisions are discussed
- Through a designated transparency or governance channel
Managing Conflicts
When a conflict is disclosed, Stimpunks Foundation will determine an appropriate response, which may include:
- Full disclosure to relevant decision-makers
- Recusal from discussion or decision-making
- Independent review or consultation
- Adjusting roles, scope, or responsibilities
- Documenting the conflict and resolution in internal records
The response will be proportionate to the nature of the conflict.
Decision-Making and Recusal
- Individuals with a conflict should not participate in decisions where the conflict applies
- Presence for informational purposes may be allowed if appropriate
- Recusal will be documented when relevant
Recusal is a protective measure, not a disciplinary one.
Gifts and Benefits
- Gifts, favors, or benefits that could influence—or appear to influence—decisions should be declined or disclosed
- Nominal or community-based gifts (e.g., zines, art, food) may be acceptable but should still be named if relevant
Documentation and Transparency
- Conflicts and their management will be documented internally
- When appropriate, conflicts may be disclosed publicly (e.g., Transparency Log)
- Sensitive personal details will be handled with care
Violations
Failure to disclose a conflict may result in:
- Review of the decision or action taken
- Corrective steps to address harm
- Reassessment of role or responsibilities
Responses will be fair, proportional, and grounded in care.
Review of This Policy
This policy will be reviewed periodically and updated as Stimpunks Foundation evolves.
