Last updated April 27, 2023: It is the policy of MassChallenge, Inc. (“MassChallenge”) to maintain an environment free from discrimination and harassment based on: race, color, national origin, ancestry, religious creed, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, military status, or any other basis covered by federal, state, or local law. As a volunteer, intern, mentor, speaker, judge, expert, start-up, guest, contractor, and/or vendor, you are expected to comply with this policy. 

With regard to MassChallenge employees, MassChallenge will not tolerate discrimination or harassment of any employee on the basis of any of the traits listed above, on its premises or in any of its events or programs including events and or programs that take place virtually over online conferencing tools like Zoom. This policy includes, but is not limited to, prohibition of sexual harassment of employees, volunteers and interns at any time while on MassChallenge’s premises or in connection with any events or programs involving any MassChallenge employees, volunteers or interns. MassChallenge also prohibits retaliation against an employee, volunteer or intern for reporting discrimination or harassment prohibited by this policy, or for cooperating in any investigation of a report of discrimination or harassment. MassChallenge will investigate reports of harassment, discrimination or retaliation and encourages individuals to cooperate in any such investigation. Upon investigation, MassChallenge will take such action that it, in its sole discretion, deems necessary under the circumstances. Violation of this policy may lead to removal from MassChallenge’s premises, events, or programs and/or termination of any relationship with MassChallenge. 

If MassChallenge staff has any questions about this policy or wish to report discrimination, harassment or retaliation in violation of this policy, please direct your communication to People Strategy.  

With regard to MassChallenge community members including mentors, speakers, judges, experts, startups, guests, contractors and/or vendors, MassChallenge will not tolerate discrimination or harassment of any community member on the basis of any of the traits listed above, on its premises or in any of its events or programs including events or programs that take place virtually over online conferencing tools like Zoom. 

Any misconduct within the MassChallenge community should be reported to MassChallenge COO Lisa McLaughlin (lisa@masschallenge.org) or be reported to local MC leadership via Contact Us. Misconduct will be promptly investigated. Violation of this policy may lead to removal from MassChallenge’s premises, events, or programs and/or termination of any relationship with MassChallenge.