Ethics 1st

Overview

A multi-stakeholder platform led by CIPE that enables companies in emerging markets—particularly across Africa—to standardize business practices, develop corporate governance systems, and integrate into global value chains through transparent and ethical business conduct.

Technologies

Key Features

• Company registration and listing for businesses committed to ethical compliance
• Valuechain Integrity Partner program for organizations supporting the ecosystem
• Compliance Guides & Tools and Surveys & Reports in the Resources section
• Values framework: Accountability, Respect, Loyalty, Leadership, Integrity, Honesty
• ABIN Partners (Compliance Service Providers) and Assessor Registration
• Help Center, Advisory Committee, and community engagement features

The Challenge

Companies in emerging markets, especially in Africa, often lack clear pathways to demonstrate ethical business practices and corporate governance. This limits their ability to join global value chains and access partnerships that require verified compliance standards.

The Solution

Ethics 1st provides a structured platform where companies can register, get listed, and showcase their commitment to business integrity. By connecting listed companies with Compliance Service Providers and Valuechain Integrity Partners, the initiative creates an ecosystem that incentivizes transparent conduct and helps African enterprises compete globally.