About · Founded 2025
Proof of human intent for a world of AI agents.
Our beginnings
Founded in 2025 by Chris Surdak, ReLeaf Financial focuses on a question that becomes more important as AI systems act on our behalf: how can a system verify that a person intended a particular action?
Our Proof of Intent™ approach is designed to preserve auditable evidence of human authorization, complementing the identity, authentication, and permission systems organizations already rely on.
We draw on the timeless idea of the notary — witnessing and recording a meaningful human act — as we build toward programmable trust in digital interactions.
Founder
Founder & CEO
Author · Technology strategist
Chris Surdak’s work spans artificial intelligence, AI governance, digital transformation, automation, information governance, and data analytics. His perspective connects technology with the business, legal, and regulatory questions that shape its use.
He is the author of Data Crush, Jerk, and The Care and Feeding of Bots, and co-author with Robert F. Smallwood of AI Governance Playbook. His writing explores how organizations respond to technological change — from the rise of data-driven businesses to the practical governance of automation and AI.
Data Crush received a getAbstract International Book Award. At ReLeaf Financial, his focus is on verifiable human authorization as digital systems become more autonomous.
Published work
Co-authored with Robert F. Smallwood
How to Secure, Control, and Optimize Artificial Intelligence Initiatives
A framework for governing AI initiatives, addressing security, ethics, transparency, and organizational risk.
Book details2020 · Christopher Surdak
An Owner’s Manual for Robotic Process Automation
Practical lessons in deploying, operating, and governing robotic process automation — and why implementations succeed or fail.
Book details2016 · Christopher Surdak
Twelve Steps to Rule the World
An examination of data-driven disruption and the behaviors that help new companies challenge established industries.
Book details2014 · Christopher Surdak
How the Information Tidal Wave Is Driving New Business Opportunities
How organizations can turn the growing tide of digital information into customer insight and business opportunity.
Book details