A computer-implemented method for establishing and operating an ecosystem, comprising:(a) identifying at least one first prerequisite that governs whether an entity is eligible to participate in the ecosystem;(b) determining whether the entity meets the at least one first prerequisite, thereby being eligible to participate in the ecosystem;(c) identifying at least one second prerequisite that governs whether an entity is qualified to participate in the ecosystem;(d) determining whether the entity meets the at least one second prerequisite, thereby being qualified to participate in the ecosystem;(e) when the entity is eligible and qualified, executing a contract in which the entity agrees to adhere to the at least one second prerequisite, thereby allowing the entity to participate in the ecosystem;(f) identifying at least one third prerequisite that governs whether the entity is permitted to engage in one or more designated ecosystem transactions;(g) determining whether the entity meets the at least one third prerequisite, thereby permitting the entity to engage in designated ecosystem transactions;(h) when the entity is so permitted, granting the entity designated status, thereby allowing the entity to engage in designated ecosystem transactions; and(i) entering into one or more designated ecosystem transactions by the entity.
