The Mensarius Oath
A professional code of ethics for venture capital, designed to foster positive outcomes in society. Every VC Lab and Venture Institute participant commits to it.
Why an oath for venture capital
Venture capitalists shape which technologies, founders, and ideas reach the world. With that influence comes responsibility. The Mensarius Oath is a Hippocratic-style commitment that names that responsibility plainly and asks investors to live by it.
Modeled after the oaths taken by physicians and engineers, the Mensarius Oath is a living document — refined by practitioners, signed by managers, and held up as the standard of conduct expected from every VC Lab graduate.
Twelve principles every signatory upholds
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Integrity
Act with honesty in every transaction, communication, and disclosure to founders and LPs.
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Transparency
Provide clear, accurate, and timely information about strategy, performance, and risk.
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Fiduciary Duty
Place the interests of limited partners and portfolio founders ahead of personal gain.
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Founder Respect
Treat founders as partners, not subordinates — with empathy, fairness, and constructive feedback.
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Ethical Capital
Refuse capital from sources that conflict with the long-term mission of the fund.
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Diligence
Apply rigorous, evidence-based analysis to every investment and operating decision.
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Diversity
Promote diverse voices, perspectives, and access across the venture ecosystem.
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Conflict Disclosure
Surface conflicts of interest early and resolve them in favor of stakeholders.
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Confidentiality
Protect sensitive information shared by founders, LPs, and co-investors.
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Continuous Learning
Commit to the lifelong development of craft, judgement, and self-awareness.
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Community
Contribute time and knowledge back to the broader entrepreneurial community.
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Positive Impact
Pursue investments that create durable, measurable benefit for society.
Take the Oath
Every participant in VC Lab and the Venture Institute commits to the Mensarius Oath. Join us.
Apply now