ZenTrust Governance

Ethical stewardship and transparent oversight.

ZenTrust operates with clear governance and policies to ensure accountability to our mission of public benefit and research.

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IRS 501(c)(3) Compliance

ZenTrust (EIN: 33-4318487) is a 501(c)(3) public charity. We maintain strict adherence to federal and state regulations governing educational nonprofit organizations.

Public Charity Status

Qualified as a public charity under IRC 501(c)(3). Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

EIN: 33-4318487
Classification: 501(c)(3) Public Charity

Prohibited Activities

ZenTrust strictly avoids political campaign activity, excessive lobbying, and private inurement, ensuring all assets serve our mission.

Political Neutrality: No candidate endorsements
Public Benefit: No private benefit to board or staff

Stewardship Principles

Our framework is built on nonprofit best practices adapted to support long-term ecological and systems research.

Nonprofit Compliance

Full adherence to IRS 501(c)(3) regulations, including prohibitions on private inurement and political activities.

Conflict of Interest

Strict policies ensuring board members and stewards maintain independence and avoid conflicts in research oversight.

Board Responsibilities

Clear fiduciary duties including oversight of research, finances, and compliance with all applicable laws.

Transparency

Annual Form 990 filings and open access to governance documents and research ethics policies.

Research Oversight

Rigorous monitoring of all research support to ensure compliance with federal regulations for public charities.

Ethical Stewardship

Commitment to ethical management of resources with all revenue reinvested into our educational mission.

Policies & Ethics

ZenTrust maintains comprehensive policies to ensure research integrity and the protection of all community participants.

Conflict of Interest Policy

Procedures for disclosing and managing potential conflicts among board members and key personnel.

Status: Adopted July 2025

Whistleblower Protection

Protects individuals who report suspected violations of law or policy from retaliation.

Status: Adopted July 2025

Document Retention

Ensures records are maintained in compliance with legal requirements and research standards.

Status: Adopted July 2025

Privacy & Data Ethics

Governs the protection of personal information from all research and stewardship participants.

Status: Adopted July 2025

Participation Ethics

ZenTrust commits to protecting the autonomy and clarity of all individuals who engage with our research ecosystem.

Our Commitment to You

Clarity & Accuracy

  • • Transparent reporting on research stewardship
  • • Access to public governance and compliance filings
  • • Honest communication grounded in observed reality

Privacy & Sovereignty

  • • Individual control over personal data and preferences
  • • Options for private or anonymous participation
  • • Autonomy to modify or end engagement at any time
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