Whistleblower Protection Policy

Queen City Robotics Alliance, Inc.

Purpose
The Queen City Robotics Alliance (QCRA) requires its board members, officers, employees, and volunteers to observe high standards of ethics in the conduct of their duties and responsibilities. QCRA is committed to honesty, integrity, and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.

Reporting Responsibility
This Whistleblower Policy encourages employees, volunteers, and other stakeholders to raise serious concerns internally so that QCRA can address and correct inappropriate conduct. It is the responsibility of all associated with QCRA to report concerns about violations of the organization’s Code of Ethics, suspected fraud, discrimination, or any violation of laws or regulations governing QCRA operations.

No Retaliation
QCRA does not tolerate retaliation against anyone who, in good faith, reports an ethics violation, suspected fraud, discrimination, or regulatory noncompliance. Retaliation is grounds for disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or affiliation with QCRA.

Reporting Procedure
QCRA operates an open-door policy encouraging individuals to share questions, concerns, or complaints with their direct supervisor or program lead.

If you are uncomfortable speaking with your supervisor or are unsatisfied with their response, you may report your concerns to the Executive Director or the designated Compliance Officer. Reports may also be submitted in writing and marked as confidential.

Supervisors and managers are required to report all complaints or concerns about suspected violations to the Compliance Officer, who is responsible for investigating and addressing the issues.

Compliance Officer
The Compliance Officer for QCRA is responsible for ensuring all complaints are thoroughly investigated and appropriately resolved. They will inform the Board of Directors of reported concerns and resolutions. The Compliance Officer will also report annually on compliance activities related to financial or ethical matters.

Accounting and Auditing Matters
The Compliance Officer must promptly notify the Board of Directors of any concerns related to accounting practices, internal controls, or auditing issues and work with the appropriate committee until resolution.

Acting in Good Faith
Anyone filing a report must do so in good faith with reasonable grounds to believe a violation occurred. Reports made maliciously, or with knowledge of their falsehood, will be treated as a serious disciplinary matter.

Confidentiality
To the extent possible, reports will remain confidential, consistent with the need for a thorough investigation.

Handling of Reported Violations
The Compliance Officer will acknowledge receipt of each complaint and ensure it is promptly investigated. Corrective actions will be taken when warranted by the investigation's findings.

Compliance Officer Contact Information
Kaiwen Cheng

CEO, Queen City Robotics Alliance

Revision Log:

This policy was reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors in December 2024