Compear Consulting Collective Membership Terms and Conditions

Effective Date: January 1, 2023

Thank you for your interest in the Compear Consulting Collective, an initiative powered by Compear Global Education Network LLC (“Compear,” “we,” or “us”). By joining the Collective, you (“Member”) are entering into a legally binding agreement to uphold these Terms and Conditions (“Agreement”). This document governs the terms of your membership, rights, obligations, and participation. Please read it carefully.

1. Membership Options and Structure

The Compear Consulting Collective supports Compear’s consulting division by creating opportunities for qualified members to engage in real-world consulting projects. However, participation is subject to availability, project needs, and approval by Compear leadership. Membership does not guarantee consulting assignments, and Compear reserves sole discretion to assign roles based on project requirements.

1.1 Root Membership (Free)

• Access to foundational educational resources and the Compear newsletter.

• Participation in public webinars and community dialogues.

• Listed as a member on the Compear website (without a detailed profile).

• Access to exclusive events and opportunities throughout the year.

• Secondary contributor status for consulting projects; no guarantee of leadership roles or priority access.

• Suitable for individuals exploring the field or Compear’s mission.

1.2 Canopy Membership ($250/year)

• All Root Membership benefits.

• Professional profile on the Compear website to enhance visibility and networking.

• Unlimited access to specialized workshops, seminars, and leadership roundtables.

• Personalized mentoring with senior leaders, including Christina Thompson.

• Priority invitations and complimentary access to key events, including the Global Respectful Disruption Summit.

• Leadership roles and priority consideration for consulting proposals and projects.

• Comprehensive contract management support with transparent rate structures.

• Discount: 50% off the first-year membership fee if enrolled by December 1, 2024.

2. Participation in Consulting Projects

2.1 Participation in consulting projects is subject to Compear’s discretion, based on project needs, member qualifications, and expertise.

2.2 Members must honor commitments to projects and complete tasks as agreed. Failure to meet commitments without valid cause may result in membership review or termination.

2.3 Consulting participation may be governed by separate agreements or contracts, and members must comply with project-specific terms.

3. Ethical Business Conduct

3.1 Members must uphold high professional standards at all times.

3.2 Misusing the platform to acquire business leads or divert opportunities is strictly prohibited and may result in immediate termination of membership and legal action.

4. Confidentiality and Data Protection

4.1 Member Confidentiality: All internal discussions within the Collective are confidential and require prior written consent for disclosure.

4.2 Client Confidentiality: Client information from consulting projects must be kept strictly confidential. Unauthorized use or disclosure may result in membership termination and legal action.

4.3 Sensitive Data Handling: Members are required to securely store sensitive information within Compear’s designated platforms.

4.4 Breach Notification: Members must promptly report any breach of confidentiality. Compear may impose disciplinary actions, including termination, for violations.

4.5 Client Protection: Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) may be required for certain projects, and members must adhere to all contractual obligations.

5. Intellectual Property (IP) Rights

5.1 Ownership of IP: All work products, solutions, and methodologies developed through consulting projects are the exclusive property of Compear Global Education Network LLC, unless explicitly agreed otherwise in writing.

5.2 Licensing to Clients: Clients may receive a non-exclusive, non-transferable license to use deliverables for the intended purpose. Unauthorized use or distribution is prohibited.

5.3 Protection of Proprietary Methods: Compear retains ownership of its proprietary methods, even when clients benefit from project outcomes.

5.4 IP Dispute Resolution: IP disputes will first be addressed through good-faith negotiation. If unresolved, Compear reserves the right to pursue legal remedies.

6. Liability and Indemnification

6.1 Limitation of Liability: Compear and its members are not liable for indirect, consequential, or punitive damages, including lost profits, except where prohibited by law.

6.2 Mutual Responsibilities: All parties must act to minimize risks and liabilities associated with their activities in the Collective.

6.3 Indemnification: Members agree to indemnify and hold harmless Compear and other members from any claims, damages, or liabilities arising from their actions, negligence, or breach of this Agreement.

7. Membership Activation and Termination

7.1 Activation: Membership becomes active upon formal acceptance and payment of applicable fees.

7.2 Termination by Member: Members may terminate their membership by providing written notice, effective at the end of the current billing cycle. Members must fulfill any ongoing obligations.

7.3 Termination by Compear: Compear may terminate a membership for violations of terms, non-payment, or harmful conduct. Written notice will be provided, with an opportunity for the member to address concerns before termination.

7.4 Refund Policy: All membership fees are non-refundable.

7.5 Post-Termination Obligations: Members must assist with project transitions to ensure continuity and uphold client commitments.

8. Inactivity Policy

8.1 Members inactive for over six months will undergo a review by the advisory board.

8.2 Possible outcomes include:

• Re-engagement: Providing resources to support active participation.

• Temporary hiatus: Granting a leave of absence for personal challenges.

• Status revision: Revising membership status, including potential termination, if inactivity persists.

9. Dispute Resolution

9.1 General Disputes: Disputes will be resolved through inclusive dialogue, aligned with Compear’s values.

9.2 Advisory Board Involvement: The advisory board may facilitate resolution efforts or recommend external mediation.

9.3 Consulting Project Disputes: Disputes related to consulting projects will follow project-specific agreements. If unresolved, the parties may engage a mutually agreed-upon mediator.

10. Amendment Policy

Compear reserves the right to amend these terms. Members will receive advance notice of any changes, which will require approval through a structured review process.

11. Governing Law

This Agreement will be governed by and construed under the laws of North Carolina, without regard to its conflict of law principles.

12. Contact Information

For inquiries or support, please contact:

• Christina Thompson, Email: info@compear.org

The Compear Consulting Collective empowers individuals of all levels to engage in meaningful projects, develop new skills, and contribute to innovative solutions. Whether you are exploring the field or ready to lead, the Collective offers a platform to connect, grow, and thrive in international education and DEI.