> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://standard.nature-value.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://standard.nature-value.org/readme/4-validation-verification-requirements/4.4-conflicts-of-interest.md).

# 4.4 Conflicts of interest

VVBs are required to be free from any conflicts of interest with the project and project proponent who they are contracted to audit. To mitigate potential conflicts of interest between the project proponent and the VVB, NCS will take responsibility for selecting and engaging VVBs for project validation and verification. Additionally, all VVBs are required to submit a conflict of interest disclosure prior to engagement.

VVBs are beholden to the NCS conflicts of interest policy, where they fall into the category of contractors to NCS.


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