In the story of homo sapiens, the grapevine plays a starring role. For thousands of years it kept us safe, as our communities grew and became more complex.

Through the grapevine, we shared knowledge - which plants were poisonous and which had medicinal qualities. We told stories - turned heroic deeds into celebrated legends and unhappy accidents into cautionary tales. We assembled tribes - welcomed trusted allies and conquered heights we could not aspire to alone. The grapevine helped us to govern before we had centralised institutions - to learn from wise elders and avoid repeating the mistakes of the past.

We are launching Grapevine in the same spirit. To share knowledge, rally support, and hold the tech ecosystem collectively accountable for creating safe and equitable workplaces - where all people feel empowered to thrive.

What are we?

Grapevine is a grassroots initiative led by startup founders, operators, and investors, and leaders. We aim to:

• Raise awareness of the abuses of power, harassment, bullying, and discrimination that occurs within the tech ecosystem by sharing de-identified stories.
• Stand in solidarity with those who have suffered these injustices.
• Share advice on how individuals affected, bystanders, and leaders can navigate challenging situations.
• Provide pragmatic guidance on how people within organisations can take action, find resolutions, and take proactive actions to prevent future wrongdoing.
• Start conversations that invite contemplation and conversation about how we can collectively improve the ecosystem.

What are we not?

• A witch-hunt to identify and expose and scapegoat individuals or organisations.
• A crusade to find retribution for victims by using public ‘name and shame’ tactics.
• A tabloid that publishes dramatised stories for shock value and dramatic effect.