Builders and Founders Privacy Policy
Effective Date: June 27, 2025
Last Updated: June 27, 2025
1. Introduction
Welcome to the Builders and Founders("we," "our," or "us"). We are committed to protecting your personal information and your right to privacy. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard your information when you participate in our community.
2. Information We Collect
2.1 Information You Provide to Us
- Profile Information: Name, email address, phone number, LinkedIn profile, company information, role/title
- Professional Background: Startup/business details, industry expertise, investment history, mentorship experience
- Community Contributions: Posts, comments, shared resources, event participation
- Communication Data: Direct messages, feedback, support requests
2.2 Information Collected Automatically
- Usage Data: Engagement metrics, content interactions, feature usage patterns
- Device Information: IP address, browser type, operating system, device identifiers
- Activity Logs: Login times, content access, community participation patterns
2.3 Information from Other Members
- Referrals: When members vouch for new applicants
- Mentions: When you're referenced in community discussions
- Shared Connections: Professional relationships within the ecosystem
3. How We Use Your Information
3.1 Community Operations
- Verify eligibility and authenticate members
- Facilitate connections between compatible founders
- Customise content and resources to your stage and needs
- Maintain community safety and quality standards
3.2 Communication
- Send community updates and announcements
- Notify you of relevant opportunities and events
- Connect you with potential collaborators or advisors
- Deliver important service information
3.3 Improvement and Analytics
- Analyse community health and engagement
- Identify content gaps and member needs
- Improve matching algorithms for connections
- Measure community impact and outcomes
5. Data Security
We implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect your information:
- Encryption of sensitive data in transit and at rest
- Regular security assessments and updates
- Access controls and authentication protocols
- Incident response procedures
However, no system is 100% secure. We cannot guarantee absolute security of your information.
6. Your Rights and Choices
6.1 Access and Control
You have the right to:
- Access your personal information
- Correct inaccurate data
- Request deletion of your information
- Export your data in a portable format
- Opt-out of non-essential communications
6.2 Communication Preferences
- Manage notification settings in your profile
- Unsubscribe from marketing communications
- Control visibility of your information to other members
7. Data Retention
We retain your information for as long as:
- Your account remains active
- Necessary to provide our services
- Required for legal or business purposes
- Needed to resolve disputes or enforce agreements
Upon account closure, we will delete or anonymize your personal information within 90 days, except where retention is required by law.
8. International Data Transfers
Our community operates globally. Your information may be transferred to and processed in countries other than your own. We ensure appropriate safeguards are in place for international transfers.
9. Children's Privacy
Our community is not intended for individuals under 18 years of age. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18.
10. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of material changes via:
- Email notification
- Community announcement
- Prominent notice on our platform
11. Contact Information
For privacy-related questions or concerns:
Privacy Officer
Builders and Founders Community
Email: privacy@buildersandfounders.com
Data Protection Rights (EU/UK Residents):
You may also contact your local data protection authority.
12. Additional Provisions for Specific Regions
12.1 California Residents (CCPA)
You have additional rights including:
- Right to know what personal information we collect
- Right to delete personal information
- Right to opt-out of sales (we do not sell personal information)
- Right to non-discrimination
12.2 EU/UK Residents (GDPR)
Legal bases for processing:
- Consent: For optional features and marketing
- Contract: To provide community services
- Legitimate interests: For community operations and safety