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Terms & Conditions

1. Acceptance of Terms

By accessing the Black Business Ventures Association ("BBVA") website, registering for programs, or participating in BBVA coaching, advisory services, and other initiatives, you agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions ("Terms"). If you do not agree to these Terms, please do not use the website or participate in BBVA programs.

BBVA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Black entrepreneurs throughout their entrepreneurship journey. These Terms, along with our Privacy Policy, https://www.blackventures.org/privacy. In the event of any conflict between these documents, the most protective provision will apply.

BBVA may modify these Terms at any time. Your continued use of the website and participation in BBVA programs following the posting of revised Terms means that you accept and agree to the changes.

2. Use of Website

2.1 Website Purpose

The BBVA website serves as an information resource for entrepreneurs seeking support and as a platform for program registration, participant communication, and ecosystem connection. The website is provided to support our nonprofit mission of advancing Black entrepreneurship.

2.2 Website Structure and Permitted Activities

The BBVA website provides information about our organization, programs, and entrepreneurship resources. Visitors may:

  • Browse website content, educational materials, and program information
  • Submit program applications through designated forms
  • Contact BBVA using the contact form or email
  • Leave comments on blog posts (subject to moderation guidelines)
  • Subscribe to newsletters and updates

2.3 Acceptable Use and Blog Comments

You agree to use the website only for lawful purposes and in ways that do not infringe upon the rights of others. When leaving comments on blog posts, you agree to:

  • Maintain respectful, professional language
  • Not post harassment, bullying, or abusive content
  • Not post obscene, offensive, or defamatory material
  • Not share false, misleading, or harmful information
  • Not post spam, promotional content, or unsolicited links
  • Not impersonate another person or organization
  • Not post content that violates intellectual property rights
  • Not post content that violates applicable laws or regulations

2.4 Blog Comment Moderation

BBVA moderates all blog comments to maintain a respectful, inclusive community space. We reserve the right to:

  • Review all comments before publication
  • Edit comments for clarity, length, or appropriateness
  • Remove comments that violate these Terms or our community guidelines
  • Disable comments on any blog post at our discretion
  • Remove or suspend commenting privileges for users who violate these guidelines

Comments are moderated to ensure the blog remains a welcoming space for all community members. BBVA is not responsible for user-submitted comments and does not endorse views expressed in comments.

2.5 Website Security and Prohibited Activities

You agree not to:

  • Attempt to gain unauthorized access to website systems or networks
  • Transmit viruses, malware, or harmful code
  • Use automated tools (bots, scrapers) to access website content without authorization
  • Reverse engineer or decompile website code
  • Engage in spamming, phishing, or malicious activities
  • Disrupt website functionality or performance

3. Intellectual Property Rights

3.1 BBVA Content

All content on the website, including text, graphics, logos, images, educational materials, guides, videos, and software, is the property of BBVA or its content contributors and is protected by copyright law. This includes:

  • Educational materials, guides, and entrepreneurship resources
  • Articles, blog posts, and written content
  • BBVA logos, trademarks, and branding
  • Website design, layout, and structure
  • Coaching frameworks and proprietary methodologies

3.2 Limited Use License

We grant you a limited, non-exclusive, personal license to view and use the website content for your own entrepreneurship journey and participation in BBVA programs. You may not:

  • Reproduce, republish, or distribute content without written permission
  • Modify, translate, or create derivative works
  • Remove or alter copyright notices or proprietary markings

3.3 Trademarks

The Black Business Ventures Association name, logo, and related trademarks are exclusive property of BBVA. You may not use these trademarks without express written consent.

4. Blog Comments and Community Guidelines

4.1 Blog Comment Policy

BBVA's blog provides entrepreneurship resources, insights, and community updates. We welcome thoughtful comments from our audience. When you leave a comment, you agree to:

  • Provide accurate information
  • Maintain respectful, constructive dialogue
  • Not post promotional content, spam, or unsolicited advertising
  • Not include contact information of other people without their permission
  • Acknowledge that your comment may be published publicly

4.2 Comment Ownership and License

By submitting a comment, you grant BBVA a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, display, and reproduce your comment on the BBVA website and in connection with BBVA's nonprofit mission. You retain ownership of your comment but consent to its publication.

4.3 Comment Moderation and Removal

BBVA reserves the right to:

  • Moderate all comments before publication
  • Edit comments for clarity, grammar, or length
  • Remove comments that violate these Terms or community guidelines
  • Remove comments that are off-topic, abusive, or inappropriate
  • Disable comments on any blog post
  • Suspend or permanently remove commenting privileges for violators

BBVA is not responsible for user comments and does not endorse views expressed in comments. Removal of a comment does not obligate BBVA to provide explanation or opportunity to revise.

5. Limitation of Liability

5.1 Disclaimer of Warranties

The website and all content, programs, coaching services, and materials are provided on an "AS IS" and "AS AVAILABLE" basis without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. BBVA makes no warranty that:

  • The website will be error-free, uninterrupted, or secure
  • Any defects or errors will be corrected
  • Content is accurate, complete, or current
  • The website will meet your specific needs or expectations
  • Coaching services will result in business success or specific outcomes

5.2 Limitation of Damages

To the maximum extent permitted by law, BBVA shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising from your use of the website or participation in programs, including:

  • Loss of profits or revenue
  • Loss of business opportunities or customers
  • Damage to reputation or goodwill
  • Loss of data or information
  • Business interruption or failure
  • Any other losses

5.3 Liability Cap

BBVA's total liability to you for all claims arising from these Terms or your participation in BBVA programs shall not exceed $100 CAD, even if BBVA has been advised of the possibility of greater damages.

6. Disclaimers

6.1 Not Professional Advice

BBVA coaches are not lawyers, accountants, tax advisors, or investment advisors. Coaching provided by BBVA is educational and informational. For legal, tax, financial, or investment matters, you should consult with appropriate licensed professionals.

6.2 Business Outcome Disclaimer

BBVA does not guarantee that participation in our programs will result in:

  • Business success, profitability, or growth
  • Funding, investment, or financing
  • Revenue or financial targets
  • Customer acquisition or market expansion
  • Employment or partnership opportunities
  • Any specific business outcomes

Business success depends on numerous factors beyond BBVA's control, including your execution, market conditions, competition, economic factors, and timing. BBVA provides guidance and support, but the responsibility for business decisions and outcomes rests entirely with you.

6.3 Third-Party Content and Services

The website may contain links to third-party websites, resources, and services. BBVA is not responsible for the content, accuracy, security, or practices of third-party sites. Your use of third-party services is at your own risk and subject to their terms and conditions. We recommend reviewing third-party privacy policies before providing information.

6.4 Website Availability

While we strive to keep the website running smoothly, BBVA does not guarantee continuous, uninterrupted, or error-free access to the website or services. Website maintenance, technical issues, or circumstances beyond our control may cause temporary unavailability.

7. SMS Communications Terms and Disclosure

SMS Terms and Conditions

This section ("SMS Terms") governs your participation in BBVA's Short Message Service (SMS) text message communications program. By providing your mobile phone number and opting in to receive SMS messages, you agree to these SMS Terms and consent to receive text messages from Black Business Ventures Association.

7.1 Types of Messages

You can expect to receive the following types of SMS messages from BBVA:

  • Coaching Session Reminders: Reminders about upcoming one-on-one coaching calls, mentoring appointments, and advisory sessions
  • Scheduling Confirmations: Confirmation of appointment times, changes to session schedules, and rescheduling information
  • Program Updates: Important information about programs you are participating in (e.g., Evolve Labs cohort updates, pitch competition details)
  • Event Announcements: Invitations to and reminders about BBVA-hosted events, workshops, webinars, networking opportunities, and pitch competitions
  • Deadline Reminders: Time-sensitive reminders about application deadlines, submission dates, and program milestones
  • Pitch Competition Updates: Information about pitch competitions, feedback, demo day details, and event logistics
  • Administrative Notices: Important information necessary for program participation and compliance with program policies
  • Ecosystem Opportunities: Information about funding, partnerships, resources, and connections that may benefit your business
  • Educational Content: Brief tips, resources, and entrepreneurship guidance (sent periodically)

7.2 Texting Cadence and Message Frequency

Message frequency depends on your participation level in BBVA programs:

Message frequency may vary based on program schedules, key milestones, or critical communication needs. You will typically not receive more than one message per day under normal circumstances.

7.3 Message and Data Rates

⚠️ IMPORTANT: Standard message and data rates apply. Contact your mobile carrier for information about your specific SMS plan and associated charges. BBVA is a nonprofit organization and does not charge for SMS messages. However, your wireless carrier may impose message and data charges based on your plan. BBVA is not responsible for any charges imposed by your mobile carrier. Rates vary by carrier, plan, and location.

7.4 Opt-In Requirement

You will only receive SMS messages if you have explicitly opted in by:

  • Checking the SMS opt-in checkbox during program registration
  • Providing your phone number with clear consent to receive text messages
  • Responding affirmatively to an opt-in confirmation request

BBVA will not send SMS messages to any number that has not been explicitly opted in.

7.5 Opt-Out Instructions

To stop receiving SMS messages from BBVA, you have the following options:

Primary Method – Reply "STOP": Simply reply with the word "STOP" (all caps or lowercase) to any SMS message from BBVA. This is the fastest and most reliable way to unsubscribe.

Alternative opt-out methods:

Confirmation: After you opt out, you will receive a confirmation message. We will remove your number from our SMS list within 10 business days. Please allow time for the opt-out to fully process across all systems.

7.6 Privacy and Data Protection

Your phone number and SMS message data are protected under BBVA's Privacy Policy https://www.blackventures.org/privacy and all applicable Canadian privacy laws. For detailed information on how we collect, use, and protect your phone number and SMS data, please review our Privacy Policy https://www.blackventures.org/privacy.

Key data protection points:

  • Your phone number is used exclusively to send you SMS program-related messages
  • We do not sell, rent, or share your phone number with third parties
  • Your data is encrypted and stored securely
  • We comply with Canada's Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL), PIPEDA, Alberta FOIPP, TCPA, and all applicable SMS regulations
  • You can request access to or deletion of your phone number at any time

7.7 Microsoft SMS Platform and Service Providers

BBVA uses Microsoft-based SMS platforms and service providers to deliver text messages on our behalf. These service providers:

  • Are contractually required to maintain confidentiality and security of your phone number
  • Use your phone number exclusively to deliver BBVA messages
  • Comply with all applicable privacy laws and regulations
  • Do not share your information with third parties without authorization

By opting in to SMS messages, you acknowledge and consent to your phone number being transmitted to these service providers for message delivery purposes only.

7.8 SMS Program Agreement Acknowledgment

By providing your phone number and opting in to receive SMS messages, you:

  • Acknowledge that you have read and understood these SMS Terms
  • Consent to receive SMS messages from BBVA at the frequency and about the topics described above
  • Understand that standard message and data rates apply (BBVA does not charge; your carrier may)
  • Confirm that you own or have permission to use the phone number you provided
  • Agree that you may opt out at any time by replying "STOP"

8. Privacy and Data Protection

Your participation in BBVA programs and use of the website is governed by BBVA's Privacy Policy https://www.blackventures.org/privacy. The Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and protect your personal information. By accepting these Terms, you also consent to the privacy practices described in the Privacy Policy.

Key privacy principles include:

  • We collect only information necessary to deliver our nonprofit mission and support your entrepreneurship journey
  • Your information is kept confidential and not shared with third parties for marketing or promotional purposes. Any limited sharing with trusted service providers or partners is strictly for operational purposes and subject to confidentiality obligations.
  • You have rights to access, correct, and request deletion of your personal information
  • You can opt out of marketing and non-essential communications at any time
  • We comply with all Canadian privacy laws and regulations

9. Third-Party Links and Services

The website may contain links to external websites, resources, organizations, and services. BBVA is not responsible for the content, accuracy, security, or practices of third-party sites. Your access to and use of third-party services is at your own risk and subject to their terms and conditions.

We recommend reviewing the privacy policies and terms of any third-party website before providing your information. BBVA does not endorse third-party sites and is not responsible for third-party practices.

10. Program Termination and Withdrawal

10.1 Voluntary Withdrawal

You may voluntarily withdraw from BBVA programs at any time by notifying your coach or program coordinator. Upon withdrawal:

  • You will be removed from active program communications
  • Your access to program-specific resources may be limited
  • Your personal information will be retained per our Privacy Policy and data retention schedule

10.2 Program Removal by BBVA

BBVA may remove you from programs for:

  • Violation of program policies, code of conduct, or community guidelines
  • Abusive, disruptive, or disrespectful conduct toward staff or participants
  • Violation of applicable laws or regulations

10.3 Effect of Removal

If removed from a program, you may be ineligible for participation in future BBVA programs. Removal decisions are made in the sole discretion of BBVA leadership.

11. Modifications to Terms

BBVA may modify these Terms and Conditions at any time to reflect changes in our practices, programs, legal requirements, or organizational needs. Modifications become effective upon posting to the website. Your continued use of the website and participation in BBVA programs after modification constitutes your acceptance of the revised Terms.

For significant changes that affect your rights, we will attempt to provide notice via email or website announcement.

12. Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms and Conditions are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Province of Alberta, Canada, without regard to its conflict of law principles. You agree that all claims and disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Alberta, Canada.

13. Contact Information

For questions about these Terms and Conditions, to report concerns, or to request assistance, please contact BBVA:

Email

hello@blackventures.ca

Mailing Address

Black Business Ventures Association

Scotia Place, Tower 1

10060 Jasper Avenue

Edmonton, AB T5J 3R8

Canada

Online Contact Form

blackventures.ca/contact

Acknowledgment: By using the BBVA website, registering for programs, providing your information, or opting in to SMS communications, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions.

These Terms and Conditions, along with our Privacy Policy https://www.blackventures.org/privacy, constitute the complete agreement between you and BBVA regarding your participation in BBVA programs and services.

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