CODE OF ETHICS &
BUSINESS CONDUCT
Our Code is a living covenant — binding every director, officer, and employee to act with transparency, courage, and accountability. It translates the Seven Grandfather Teachings into modern governance practices that meet or exceed the rigor of federal standards.
ROOTED IN THE LAND WHERE WE REMEMBER
Rooted in the rolling hills of our ancestral homeland — Mikwendaagoziwag akiing, "the land where we remember" — the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians has always drawn strength from community, honesty, and perseverance.
As we expand our economic horizons through Chippewa Sustainable Solutions, Inc. and its present and future affiliates, we affirm that every contract we win, every job we create, and every dollar we earn must ultimately advance the well-being of Turtle Mountain people.
SHARED VALUES — STATEMENT OF COMMITMENT
"When we trade, build, or code, we do so first as citizens of Turtle Mountain and caretakers of the land."
Generate Sustainable Prosperity
Reinvest contract earnings in education, housing, and cultural revitalization programs.
Elevate Professional Excellence
Deliver on-time, on-budget, and security-hardened solutions that strengthen our clients' missions.
Model Ethical Leadership
Voluntarily exceed minimum legal requirements and report our progress openly to employees, citizens, and federal partners.
COMPLIANCE FRAMEWORK
This Code meets or exceeds the rigor of:
HERITAGE INTO GOVERNANCE
The Seven Grandfather Teachings of the Anishinaabe people form the ethical backbone of our Code. Each teaching is translated into a concrete governance practice.
Honesty
Gwayakwaadiziwin
We advocate for client missions with the same urgency as our own and reinvest contract profits in Tribal housing, education, and cultural programs. Employees receive annual volunteer leave to support reservation projects and STEM outreach.
Respect
Manaaji'idiwin
We recruit a workforce that mirrors the richness of Indian Country and our federal customers. Diverse voices sit on project teams and color our solutions, driving innovation and cultural relevance.
Living the Good Life
Mino-bimaadiziwin
We deliver on time, on budget, ISO-9001-aligned quality — never compromising on security or workmanship. Performance KPIs are reported quarterly to the Board and the Tribal Council.
Truth
Debwewin
We speak plainly with clients and one another, disclose mistakes, and correct course quickly. All employees certify labor and cost data daily; any falsification triggers mandatory disclosure per FAR 52.203-13.
Bravery
Aakode'ewin
We do what is right even when difficult — refusing conflicts of interest, safeguarding intellectual property, and protecting CUI under DFARS 252.204-7012.
Respect (Individual)
Manaaji'idiwin
We listen first, seek to understand different viewpoints, and provide constructive feedback. Every individual — regardless of rank, race, or gender — receives dignity and courtesy.
Humility
Dabasenimowin
We operate as One CSS. Cross-functional teams share knowledge freely; success is celebrated collectively, not individually, when the mission demands.
Love
Zaagi'idiwin
We keep promises large and small. Clients, auditors, and Tribal citizens can rely on our word, our work, and our intent. Trust metrics are embedded in employee performance plans.
EVERY EMPLOYEE HOLDS A SACRED RESPONSIBILITY
To protect our reputation and to honor generations past and yet to come. We thank you for upholding these standards and for walking this path of nation-building with integrity.
PARTNER WITH US