Privacy Policy

The Simple Version

We collect only what we need to run the platform, keep it secure, and help you connect with others in the food and agriculture community. We don't sell your information. You can ask us to delete your data anytime.

Cookies & Similar Technologies

We use cookies (small text files stored on your device) to:

• Keep you logged in (essential)
• Remember your preferences (essential)
• Understand how the platform is used (analytics)
• Keep the platform secure and running smoothly (essential)

Types of cookies we use:

• Essential cookies: Required for the platform to work (login, security, preferences)
• Analytics cookies: Help us understand what's working and what needs improvement
• You can manage cookies through your browser settings, but disabling essential cookies may prevent you from using certain features.

What Information We Collect & Why

Information You Give Us

• Account Details: Name, email, phone, company, location
• Profile Information: Your role, products, certifications, farming practices
• Messages & Content: Posts, listings, direct messages with other users
• Business Information: Company details, capabilities, products/services

Why: To create your profile, connect you with relevant partners, and operate the marketplace.

Information We Collect Automatically

• Technical Data: IP address, browser type, device information, pages visited
• Usage Data: How you use the platform, features you interact with

Why: To keep the platform secure, fix bugs, understand what's working, and improve features.

How We Use Your Information

We use your information to:

• Operate and improve the platform
• Connect you with relevant buyers, sellers, and partners using AI-powered matching
• Send you notifications about matches, messages, and platform updates
• Prevent fraud and maintain security
• Respond to your questions and support requests
• Comply with legal requirements

Legal Basis: We process your information based on:

• Contract: To provide the platform and its features
• Legitimate Interests: Platform security, improvements, and fraud prevention
• Consent: For optional marketing communications (you can opt out anytime)
• Legal Obligations: When required by law

How Our AI Matching Works

We use artificial intelligence to analyze your profile, products, certifications, and preferences to suggest relevant trading partners and business opportunities. This automated matching is a core feature of the platform and helps you discover connections you might otherwise miss.

What the AI considers:

• Your products, services, and capabilities
• Geographic location and coverage areas
• Certifications and farming practices
• Business type and supply chain role
• Past successful connections (if any)
• The AI makes suggestions, but you always decide who to contact and which opportunities to pursue. You can view any user's full profile before connecting.

Who We Share Information With

Other Users

Your profile information is visible to other verified users based on your privacy settings and subscription tier.

Service Providers

We use third-party providers for hosting, data storage, and infrastructure services necessary to operate the platform. We select providers that implement industry-standard security measures and are contractually obligated to protect our information in accordance with applicable data- protection laws. For security reasons, we don't publicly disclose specific providers, and we may change providers as our infrastructure evolves.

Legal Requirements

We may disclose information if required by law, court order, or to protect safety and security.

Business Transfers

If we merge with or are acquired by another company, your information may transfer to the new entity.

We do NOT:

• Sell your information to anyone
• Share your information for advertising purposes
• Rent or trade email lists

Your Privacy Choices

Update or Delete Your Information

• Update your profile anytime through your account settings
• Request deletion of your account and data by emailing info@theryzosphere.io

Communication Preferences

• Unsubscribe from marketing emails using the link in any email
• Adjust notification settings in your account

Data Access

• Request a copy of your data by emailing info@theryzosphere.io

Security

We use industry-standard security measures including:

• Encryption for data transmission and storage
• Regular security assessments
• Access controls and authentication
• Employee training on data protection
• No system is 100% secure. If you suspect a security issue, contact us immediately at info@theryzosphere.io.

Data Retention

We keep your information as long as your account is active or as needed to provide services.

When you delete your account:

• Profile data is removed within 30 days
• Some information may be retained for legal compliance or fraud prevention
• Aggregated, non-identifiable data may be retained indefinitely

Children's Privacy

Our platform is not for anyone under 18. We don't knowingly collect information from children. If we learn we have collected such information, we'll delete it immediately.

International Users

If you access our platform from outside the United States, your information may be transferred to, stored, and processed in the U.S. By using our platform, you consent to this transfer.

Changes to This Policy

We'll notify you of significant changes by email or through the platform. The "Last Updated" date shows when changes were made. Continued use after changes means you accept the updated policy.

Your Rights

Depending on where you live, you may have rights to:

• Access your information
• Correct inaccurate information
• Delete your information
• Object to certain uses
• Withdraw consent

California Residents

You have additional rights under California privacy law, including the right to know what information we collect and the right to opt-out of any sale (which we don't do anyway).

EU/UK Residents

You have rights under GDPR including data portability and the right to lodge a complaint with your data protection authority. We use Standard Contractual Clauses to protect your information when transferred internationally.

Contact Us

Questions about your privacy? Email: info@theryzosphere.io

Report a security issue? Email: info@theryzosphere.io

Mailing Address:

The Ryzosphere
784 S. Clearwater Loop #4597
Post Falls, ID 83854, USA

Cookie Policy

What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files stored on your device when you visit our platform. They help us provide a better experience and understand how the platform is used.

What Cookies We Use

How to Manage Cookies

Through Your Browser:

• Chrome: Settings > Privacy and security > Cookies
• Firefox: Settings > Privacy & Security > Cookies
• Safari: Preferences > Privacy > Cookies
• Edge: Settings > Privacy > Cookies

Manage Your Preferences:

Click the button below to adjust your cookie preferences at any time.

Manage Cookie Settings

Note: Blocking essential cookies will prevent you from logging in and using the platform.

Contact Us

Questions about cookies? Email info@theryzosphere.io

Terms of Service

Introduction

Welcome to The Ryzosphere. These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your access to and use of The Ryzosphere platform, including our website, mobile applications, and related services (collectively, the "Platform").

By accessing or using the Platform, you agree to be bound by these Terms. If you do not agree to these Terms, you may not access or use the Platform.

Important Notice

These Terms contain provisions that limit our liability and require individual arbitration for disputes rather than jury trials or class actions. Please read these Terms carefully.

1. Definitions

"We," "Us," "Our" means The Ryzosphere, Inc., an Idaho Public Benefit corporation.

"You," "Your" means the individual or legal entity accessing or using the Platform.

"User," "Member" means any individual or business registered to use the Platform.

"Content" means any text, images, data, information, or materials submitted, posted, or displayed on the Platform.

"Listing" means a marketplace posting offering products, services, or requests (Offers or Asks).

"Community" means a bioregional network or organizational group within the Platform (e.g., regional cooperatives, industry associations).

"Transaction" means any business arrangement, contract, or deal negotiated between Users through the Platform.

2. Account Registration and Security

2.1 Eligibility

You must be at least 18 years old and legally able to enter into contracts to use the Platform. By registering, you represent and warrant that:

• You are at least 18 years of age
• You have the legal authority to bind any business entity you represent
• All registration information you provide is accurate and complete
• You will maintain the accuracy of your account information

2.2 Account Types

The Platform offers different account types and subscription tiers (Seed, Growth, Scale). Features and access vary by tier. You are responsible for understanding the features and limitations of your selected tier.

2.3 Account Security

You are solely responsible for:

• Maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials
• All activities that occur under your account
• Notifying us immediately of any unauthorized access or security breach

You agree not to:

• Share your account credentials with others
• Allow others to access your account
• Create multiple accounts to circumvent restrictions

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate accounts that violate security requirements.

2.4 Business Verification

We may require verification of your identity, business registration, or credentials. Failure to provide requested verification may result in account suspension or termination.

3. Platform Use and Acceptable Conduct

3.1 Permitted Use

The Platform is designed to facilitate connections and business relationships within the food and agriculture system. You may use the Platform to:

• Create a professional profile
• Browse and search for producers, processors, buyers, and service providers
• Post Listings (Offers or Asks) for products and services
• Communicate with other Members
• Participate in Communities relevant to your region or industry
• Access AI-powered matchmaking and discovery features

3.2 Prohibited Conduct

You agree NOT to:

Fraudulent or Deceptive Practices:

• Misrepresent your identity, business, or credentials
• Post false or misleading product information
• Falsely claim certifications or credentials you do not hold
• Engage in bait-and-switch practices

Platform Abuse:

• Scrape, data mine, or harvest data from the Platform
• Use automated systems (bots, scrapers) without authorization
• Reverse engineer or attempt to access Platform source code
• Interfere with Platform operation or security
• Circumvent access restrictions or subscription limits

Harmful or Illegal Activity:

• Violate any applicable laws or regulations
• Infringe intellectual property rights
• Transmit viruses, malware, or harmful code
• Harass, threaten, or abuse other Users
• Engage in discriminatory practices
• Post obscene, defamatory, or offensive content

Competitive Intelligence or Misuse:

• Use the Platform to compete with The Ryzosphere
• Build competing products using Platform data
• Aggregate Platform data for resale or redistribution

3.3 Enforcement

We reserve the right to investigate violations and take appropriate action, including:

• Removing prohibited Content
• Suspending or terminating accounts
• Reporting illegal activity to law enforcement
• Seeking legal remedies for damages

4. Marketplace Listings and Transactions

4.1 Platform Role — Critical Limitation

The Ryzosphere is a marketplace facilitator only. We ARE NOT:

• A party to any Transaction between Users
• A buyer, seller, broker, or agent
• Responsible for the quality, safety, legality, or accuracy of products or services listed Responsible for Users' ability to complete Transactions
• A guarantor of any Transaction outcome
• All Transactions are directly between Users. You agree that we have no liability for any Transaction disputes, failures, or issues.

4.2 Listing Standards

When creating Listings, you represent and warrant that:

• All information is accurate and complete
• You have legal right to offer the products/services
• Products/services comply with all applicable laws
• Pricing and availability information is current
• Any certifications or credentials claimed are valid and verifiable

Product Quality Disclaimers:

• We do not test, verify, or inspect products listed on the Platform
• We do not guarantee product quality, safety, or fitness for purpose
• Organic, non-GMO, regenerative, and other claims are User-provided and not verified by us (except where third-party verification is explicitly integrated)

4.3 Certification Claims

If you claim certifications (organic, non-GMO, regenerative, etc.):

• You must possess valid, current certifications from recognized certifying bodies to use any trademarked claim language
• You must provide documentation upon request
• You are solely liable for false or misleading certification claims
• We reserve the right to remove Listings with unverified claims
• Third-Party Verification Integration: Where the Platform integrates with third-party verification systems (e.g., Non-GMO Project verification database), we display verification data "as-is" from the third party. We do not independently verify this data and are not liable for inaccuracies in third-party systems.

4.4 AI Matchmaking and Recommendations

The Platform uses AI-powered algorithms to suggest potential matches, connections, and opportunities. These are suggestions only and not endorsements. You are solely responsible for:

• Evaluating the suitability of suggested matches
• Conducting your own due diligence
• Negotiating and forming business relationships

We make no guarantees about match quality, Transaction success, or business outcomes.

4.5 Transaction Terms

Users negotiate and agree to Transaction terms directly. The Platform may provide payment processing services to facilitate Transactions, but we are not a party to the underlying agreement between buyer and seller.

You agree:

• To negotiate terms in good faith
• To honor commitments made through the Platform
• That we are not responsible for User breaches of contract

4.6 Fees and Commissions

Subscription fees are charged according to your selected tier (Seed, Growth, or Scale)

Transaction fees or payment processing fees may apply when using Platform payment services

All fees will be clearly disclosed before you complete a Transaction or payment

All fees are non-refundable except as required by law or as specified in Section 7

We reserve the right to modify fee structures with 30 days' notice to active subscribers

5. User Content and Intellectual Property

5.1 Your Content Ownership

You retain all ownership rights to Content you submit to the Platform ("Your Content"). This includes:

• Profile information
• Listings and product descriptions
• Messages and communications
• Photos, logos, and media

5.2 License to The Ryzosphere

By submitting Content, you grant us a worldwide, non-exclusive, royalty-free, sublicensable, transferable, perpetual, irrevocable license to:

• Use, reproduce, display, distribute, and publish Your Content on the Platform
• Modify, adapt, translate, and create derivative works from Your Content for technical or operational purposes
• Use Your Content in marketing, promotional, and educational materials
• Share Your Content with Community partners, integrated third-party services, and strategic partners
• Aggregate Your Content with other user data to create anonymized datasets and insights
• Analyze Your Content to improve Platform features, AI algorithms, and user experience
• Extract data points from Your Content for inclusion in Platform Data (as defined in Section 6.5) Examples of Content Use:
• Your listing for "organic wheat, 500 acres" contributes to regional organic wheat capacity data Your business location contributes to supply chain mapping and facility density analysis Your certification claims contribute to regional certification trend analysis
• Your transaction activity contributes to market velocity and deal flow metrics
• This license is necessary for Platform operation and includes rights that enable us to provide matchmaking, analytics, and market intelligence services.

License Duration:

This license continues even after you delete Your Content, to the extent Your Content has been:

• Shared with other Users (remains in their view)
• Incorporated into aggregated or anonymized datasets
• Used to train AI models or improve Platform algorithms
• Included in published reports, analyses, or market intelligence products
• Cached in backup systems or archived for operational purposes
• You retain all ownership rights to Your Content. This license does not transfer ownership—it grants us permission to use Your Content as described above.

5.3 Content Responsibility

You represent and warrant that Your Content:

• Does not violate any law or regulation
• Does not infringe intellectual property rights
• Does not contain confidential or proprietary information you're not authorized to share
• Is accurate and not misleading
• You are solely liable for Your Content. We do not pre-screen or monitor all Content but reserve the right to remove Content that violates these Terms.

5.4 Platform Intellectual Property

The Platform, including all software, designs, algorithms, trademarks, and proprietary technology, is owned by The Ryzosphere and protected by intellectual property laws.

You agree NOT to:

• Copy, modify, or create derivative works of the Platform
• Use our trademarks, logos, or branding without permission
• Reverse engineer Platform technology
• Remove or obscure intellectual property notices

6. Data, Privacy, and Communications

6.1 Privacy Policy

Your use of the Platform is also governed by our Privacy Policy, which describes how we collect, use, and protect your information. By using the Platform, you consent to data practices described in the Privacy Policy.

6.2 Supply Chain and Identity Preservation Data

The Platform facilitates supply chain mapping and identity preservation tracking. You acknowledge:

• Data accuracy depends on User-provided information
• We do not independently verify all supply chain data
• Identity preservation claims are User responsibility
• Third-party verification data (e.g., NGP database) is provided "as-is"

6.3 Platform Communications

By creating an account, you consent to receive:

• Transactional emails (account notifications, security alerts, payment confirmations)
• Marketplace notifications (matches, inquiries, messages)
• Community updates from your selected Communities
• Platform updates and feature announcements
• You may opt out of non-essential communications through your account settings. Critical account, security, and payment notifications cannot be disabled.
• Email Communication Standards: We use info@theryzosphere.io for official communications.

6.4 Third-Party Integrations

The Platform may integrate with third-party services (e.g., certification verification, payment processors, etc). Your use of integrated services is subject to their respective terms and privacy policies. We are not responsible for third-party service practices or availability.

6.5 Platform Data and Analytics

Platform Data Defined: In addition to Your Content, the Platform collects and generates data from your use of the Platform ("Platform Data"), including:

• Aggregated and anonymized marketplace activity (listing views, inquiries, transaction volumes) Regional production capacity and supply/demand patterns
• Crop types, volumes, and geographic distribution
• Certification trends and supply chain mapping data
• Business relationships, network connections, and matchmaking results
• Usage patterns, search queries, and engagement metrics
• For clarity, Platform Data does not include any agronomic, soil, sap, nutrient, laboratory, sensor- generated, IoT, traceability, biological, or scientific data ("SVI Data"). SVI Data is governed under separate ownership, usage, and commercialization terms.

Our Rights to Platform Data:

• You acknowledge and agree that we may use aggregated, anonymized Platform Data for the following permitted purposes:
• Analyze market trends, supply chain dynamics, and regional capacity
• Generate insights, reports, and market intelligence products
• Improve Platform features, AI matching algorithms, and user experience
• Create benchmarking data and industry statistics
• Support research and development efforts
• Develop and commercialize derivative data products

Aggregation and Anonymization:

• We aggregate and anonymize Platform Data so that it cannot reasonably identify individual users or businesses. Aggregated data may include:
• Regional production volumes and capacity (e.g., "Midwest organic corn capacity increased 15%") Market opportunity analyses (e.g., "Need for milling centers in Pacific Northwest")
• Supply chain gap identification (e.g., "Limited non-GMO soy processing in Southeast")
• Industry benchmarks and comparative statistics

Anonymization Standard:

Data is considered "anonymized" when:

• It is aggregated from multiple users (typically 5 or more)
• Individual users or businesses cannot be identified from the data
• We've removed or generalized identifying information (names, exact locations, unique attributes)
• A reasonable person viewing the data couldn't determine whose data it is

Commercial Use of Insights:

We may commercialize Platform Data by:

• Selling market intelligence reports to third parties (investors, processors, service providers) Providing aggregated insights to partners (e.g., industry associations)
• Licensing data products to financial institutions, insurance companies, or researchers
• Publishing industry trends, whitepapers, and market analyses
• Supporting investment decisions and capital deployment strategies

Third-Party Sharing:

We may share aggregated, anonymized Platform Data with:

• Strategic partners and integrated third-party services
• Industry associations and research organizations
• Investors, lenders, and financial institutions
• Government agencies and regulatory bodies (when required by law)
• Media, analysts, and industry publications
• We do not sell or share identifiable user data without your consent, except as required by law or described in our Privacy Policy.

Machine Learning and AI:

• Platform Data is used to train and improve our AI-powered matchmaking algorithms, recommendation systems, and predictive analytics. This helps us:
• Provide better matches and business opportunities
• Identify supply chain gaps and market needs
• Predict regional capacity and demand patterns
• Improve Platform performance and user experience

No Compensation:

• You are not entitled to compensation for our use of Platform Data. The benefits you receive from Platform participation (marketplace access, matchmaking, community connections) constitute full consideration for your contribution to Platform Data.
• This does not apply to SVI Data, which may be subject to independent commercialization and revenue-sharing terms.

Survival:

• Our rights to Platform Data survive termination of your account or these Terms. We may continue to use, analyze, and commercialize aggregated data indefinitely.

7. Subscription, Fees, and Payment Processing

7.1 Subscription Tiers

The Platform offers subscription tiers with varying features and access:

• Seed Tier: Community-based access
• Growth Tier: Expanded federated access
• Scale Tier: Full platform access and advanced features
• Feature descriptions are available on our website. We reserve the right to modify tier features with reasonable notice.

7.2 Payment Processing Services

Payment Processing Availability: The Platform may offer payment processing services to facilitate Transactions between Users. Use of payment processing is optional unless required for specific Transaction types.

Payment Processor: Payment processing is provided through our third-party payment processor.

By using payment processing services, you agree to comply with the payment processor's terms of service and acceptable use policies.

Our Role in Payments:

• We facilitate payment processing as a service convenience
• We are not a party to the underlying Transaction
• We do not hold, control, or guarantee funds beyond standard processing timelines
• Payment processing fees may apply and will be disclosed before Transaction completion
• We do not store your financial data provided for payment processing

Payment Authorization:

By initiating a payment through the Platform, you:

• Authorize the charge to your selected payment method
• Represent that you have authority to use the payment method
• Agree to pay all applicable fees and charges
• Acknowledge that payment completion does not guarantee product delivery or quality

Payment Methods:

We accept payment methods supported by our payment processor, which may include:

• Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover)
• Debit cards
• ACH bank transfers
• Other methods as available

Payment Processing Timeframes:

• Payments are processed according to standard payment processor timelines
• Funds may be held in accordance with risk management and fraud prevention policies
• Delivery of funds to sellers may be subject to verification and holding periods
• We are not liable for payment processor delays or holds

Disputed Payments and Chargebacks:

• Payment disputes must be resolved directly between buyer and seller
• Chargebacks may result in Transaction reversal and account restrictions
• We may investigate disputed payments and suspend accounts during investigation
• False or fraudulent disputes may result in account termination

Payment Failures:

• If a payment fails, the Transaction may be cancelled, your account may be suspended until payment issues are resolved, and you remain liable for any fees or charges incurred.

7.3 Subscription Billing and Payment Terms

Subscription fees are billed monthly or annually in advance (based on your plan)

Payment is processed through our third-party payment processor

You authorize recurring charges to your payment method

All fees are in U.S. Dollars unless otherwise stated

Subscription fees are separate from Transaction payment processing fees

7.4 Fee Changes

We may change subscription fees or payment processing fees with 30 days notice to active subscribers. Continued use after notice constitutes acceptance of new fees. If you do not agree to fee changes, you may cancel your subscription before the change takes effect.

7.5 Refund Policy

Subscription Fees:

Subscription fees are non-refundable except:

• As required by applicable law
• For billing errors (corrected and refunded)
• At our sole discretion for exceptional circumstances

Transaction Payment Refunds:

• Transaction payment refunds are governed by the agreement between buyer and seller. We do not guarantee refunds for:
• Product quality issues
• Delivery failures
• Breaches of contract between Users
• Changed business circumstances
• Refund requests must be directed to: (1) First: The other party to the Transaction (buyer or seller), (2) If unresolved: info@theryzosphere.io with complete Transaction details. We may investigate refund requests and facilitate communication but are not obligated to issue refunds for User-to-User Transactions.

7.6 Cancellation

You may cancel your subscription at any time through your account settings. Cancellation takes effect at the end of your current billing period. You remain responsible for:

• All subscription fees incurred before cancellation
• Any pending Transaction payment processing fees
• Outstanding balances owed to other Users

7.7 Suspension for Non-Payment

We may suspend or terminate accounts with past-due payments. Suspended accounts may:

• Lose access to Platform features and data
• Be unable to initiate or complete Transactions
• Have pending payments held until resolution

Reinstatement requires payment of all outstanding balances.

7.8 Tax Obligations

You are responsible for determining and paying any applicable taxes arising from your use of the Platform, including:

• Sales tax on products sold (independent verification of tax ID — responsibility of buyer-seller) Income tax on revenue earned
• Use tax on products purchased
• Other applicable federal, state, or local taxes

We may collect and remit taxes as required by law. Tax treatment may vary by jurisdiction.

8. Disclaimers and Limitations of Liability

8.1 Platform "AS IS" Warranty Disclaimer

• THE PLATFORM IS PROVIDED "AS IS" AND "AS AVAILABLE" WITHOUT WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED.

We specifically disclaim all warranties including:

• Merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, and non-infringement
• Uninterrupted, error-free, or secure operation
• Accuracy, reliability, or completeness of Content or data
• Results or outcomes from Platform use
• Payment processing availability, accuracy, or timeliness

8.2 User Content Disclaimer

We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee:

• Accuracy of User-provided information
• Quality, safety, or legality of listed products/services
• Identity, credentials, or capabilities of Users
• Success or outcomes of Transactions
• Fulfillment of User obligations

8.3 AI Matching Disclaimer

AI-powered matchmaking and recommendations are suggestions only. We do not guarantee:

• Match quality or suitability
• Transaction success
• Business relationship outcomes
• Accuracy of AI-generated insights

8.4 Payment Processing Disclaimers

We do not guarantee:

• Payment processing availability at all times
• Accuracy or completeness of payment information
• Security of payment processor systems (beyond our reasonable efforts)
• Timely delivery of funds
• Resolution of payment disputes in your favor
• Prevention of all fraudulent Transactions

Payment processor service interruptions may occur. We are not liable for:

• Payment processing delays or failures
• Funds held by payment processor for risk management
• Chargebacks or disputed payments
• Payment processor fees or policies
• Technical issues with payment systems

8.5 Agricultural Product Disclaimers

The Platform does not:

• Test, inspect, or verify agricultural products
• Guarantee product safety, quality, or fitness for use
• Verify growing practices, certifications, or farming methods (except third-party verified data) Ensure compliance with food safety regulations
• Guarantee identity preservation or non-GMO status (except third-party verified)

You are solely responsible for verifying product specifications and quality.

8.6 Limitation of Liability

• TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW, THE RYZOSPHERE SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR:

Indirect, Incidental, Special, Consequential, or Punitive Damages Including:

• Lost profits, revenue, or business opportunities
• Loss of data or information
• Business interruption
• Reputational harm
• Personal injury or property damage
• Failed Transactions or payment disputes
• Product quality issues or delivery failures
• Contract breaches by other Users

Even if we have been advised of the possibility of such damages.

Direct Damages Cap:

In no event shall our total liability exceed the greater of:

• $100 USD, OR Total fees you paid us in the 12 months preceding the claim

This cap applies to all claims collectively, not per incident.

8.7 Basis of the Bargain

These disclaimers and limitations are fundamental elements of our agreement. The Platform would not be provided without these protections. Some jurisdictions do not allow certain limitations, so some may not apply to you.

9. Indemnification

9.1 Your Indemnification Obligations

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless The Ryzosphere, its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, agents, partners, and payment processors from any claims, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, or expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from:

• Your use or misuse of the Platform
• Your Content or Listings
• Your violation of these Terms
• Your violation of any law or regulation
• Your Transactions with other Users (including payment disputes)
• Your infringement of intellectual property or other rights
• False or misleading statements you make
• Product quality, safety, or regulatory compliance issues with products you offer
• Breach of contract with other Users
• Payment disputes, chargebacks, or fraudulent activity involving your account
• Your failure to pay applicable taxes

9.2 Defense and Settlement

We reserve the right to assume exclusive defense and control of any matter subject to indemnification. You agree to cooperate with our defense and not settle any claim without our prior written consent.

10. Termination and Account Closure

10.1 Termination by You

You may terminate your account at any time by:

• Canceling your subscription through account settings
• Requesting account closure via info@theryzosphere.io

Upon termination:

• Your access to the Platform will cease at the end of your billing period
• You remain liable for all fees and obligations incurred before termination
• Your Content may be deleted (except as needed for legal/operational purposes)
• Pending Transactions must be completed or cancelled

10.2 Termination by Us

We may suspend or terminate your account immediately, without notice, if:

• You violate these Terms
• We suspect fraudulent, illegal, or harmful activity
• You fail to pay fees when due
• We discontinue the Platform (with reasonable notice)
• Required by law or legal process
• Necessary to protect our rights or others' safety

10.3 Effect of Termination

Upon termination:

• All licenses granted to you terminate immediately
• You must cease all use of the Platform
• Sections that should survive termination remain in effect (see Section 10.4)
• You remain liable for obligations incurred before termination
• We may retain data as required by law or for legitimate business purposes

10.4 Survival

The following sections survive termination:

• Intellectual Property (Section 5.4)
• Payment obligations (Section 7)
• Disclaimers and Limitations of Liability (Section 8)
• Indemnification (Section 9)
• Dispute Resolution (Section 11)
• General Provisions (Section 12)

11. Dispute Resolution and Arbitration

11.1 Informal Resolution

Before filing a claim, you agree to contact us at info@theryzosphere.io to attempt informal resolution. Describe your claim and desired resolution. We'll attempt to resolve it within 30 days.

11.2 Binding Arbitration

If informal resolution fails, you agree that disputes will be resolved by binding arbitration rather than in court, except as specified in Section 11.5.

Arbitration Agreement:

• Governed by the Federal Arbitration Act (FAA)
• Administered by the American Arbitration Association (AAA)
• Conducted under AAA Commercial Arbitration Rules
• Single arbitrator selected according to AAA rules
• Location: Arbitration will be conducted in Kootenai County, Idaho or remotely via video conference

What Can Be Arbitrated:

• These Terms or your use of the Platform
• Transactions with other Users
• Payment processing or billing
• Account termination or suspension
• Intellectual property claims
• Privacy or data practices

11.3 Class Action Waiver

YOU AGREE THAT DISPUTES WILL BE RESOLVED ON AN INDIVIDUAL BASIS ONLY.

11.4 Arbitration Costs and Fees

• AAA rules govern arbitration costs
• Each party bears their own attorneys' fees unless law or arbitrator awards them
• We will pay arbitration filing fees if your claim is $10,000 or less and you follow informal resolution process

11.5 Exceptions to Arbitration

The following may be brought in court:

• Small claims court actions (if they qualify)
• Intellectual property infringement claims
• Emergency injunctive relief (to prevent irreparable harm)

11.6 Opt-Out Right

You have 30 days from accepting these Terms to opt out of arbitration. To opt out, email info@theryzosphere.io with:

• Subject line: "Arbitration Opt-Out"
• Your full name, account email, and statement: "I opt out of arbitration"

If you opt out:

• Disputes will be resolved in state or federal courts in Idaho
• You retain the right to a jury trial
• All other Terms remain in effect

11.7 Changes to Arbitration Terms

If we change this arbitration provision (except for address changes), you may reject the change by opting out within 30 days of notice. Otherwise, continued use constitutes acceptance.

12. General Provisions

12.1 Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of Idaho and applicable federal law, without regard to conflict of law principles.

12.2 Jurisdiction and Venue

For disputes not subject to arbitration:

• Exclusive jurisdiction and venue: State and federal courts in Idaho
• You consent to personal jurisdiction in Idaho courts
• You waive any objection to venue or inconvenient forum

12.3 Modifications to Terms

We may modify these Terms at any time by:

• Posting updated Terms on the Platform
• Providing notice via email or Platform notification
• Updating the "Last Updated" date

Material changes take effect:

• 30 days after notice for existing Users
• Immediately for new Users upon acceptance
• Your options after changes: Continue using the Platform = acceptance of new Terms. Discontinue use and cancel account = rejection of new Terms.

12.4 Electronic Communications

You consent to receive communications electronically, including:

• Agreements, notices, and disclosures
• Marketing and promotional materials (opt-out available)
• Transactional and operational messages

Electronic communications satisfy legal written communication requirements.

12.5 Assignment

You may not assign or transfer these Terms or your account without our written consent. We may assign these Terms or delegate obligations:

• To affiliates or subsidiaries
• In connection with merger, acquisition, or sale of assets
• To any successor entity

12.6 Entire Agreement

These Terms, together with:

• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Any supplemental terms for specific features

constitute the entire agreement between you and The Ryzosphere regarding the Platform.

12.7 Severability

If any provision is found unenforceable:

• That provision is modified to be enforceable to the maximum extent permitted
• If modification is not possible, the provision is severed
• All other provisions remain in full effect

12.8 No Waiver

Our failure to enforce any provision does not waive our right to enforce it later. Waiver of one breach does not waive future breaches.

12.9 Force Majeure

We are not liable for delays or failures due to circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including:

• Natural disasters, pandemics, or acts of God
• War, terrorism, or government actions
• Labor disputes or strikes
• Internet, telecommunications, or hosting failures
• Payment processor service interruptions

12.10 Third-Party Beneficiaries

These Terms do not create rights for third parties, except:

• Our affiliates, officers, directors, employees, and agents (for indemnification and liability limitation)
• Payment processors (for liability limitation related to payment services)

12.11 Export Controls

You agree to comply with all applicable export and import laws. You represent that you are not:

• Located in an embargoed country
• On any U.S. government restricted party list
• Prohibited from receiving U.S. exports

12.12 Agricultural Compliance

You are responsible for compliance with all applicable agricultural, food safety, and trade regulations, including:

• USDA National Organic Program (NOP) requirements
• FDA Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA)
• State and local food safety regulations
• Phytosanitary and plant health requirements
• Animal health and welfare regulations
• Pesticide and chemical use regulations
• We do not provide legal or regulatory compliance advice. Consult qualified professionals for compliance guidance.

12.13 Independent Contractors

You and The Ryzosphere are independent contractors. These Terms do not create:

• Employment, partnership, joint venture, or agency relationship
• Authority to bind the other party
• Fiduciary duties between parties

13. Contact Information

The Ryzosphere
784 S. Clearwater Loop #4597
Post Falls, ID 83854, USA

General Support:

• Email: info@theryzosphere.io

Legal Notices:

• Email: info@theryzosphere.io

Acknowledgment

BY CLICKING "I AGREE," CREATING AN ACCOUNT, OR USING THE PLATFORM, YOU

ACKNOWLEDGE THAT:

1. You have read and understand these Terms
2. You agree to be bound by these Terms
3. You understand the arbitration agreement and class action waiver
4. You understand our role as a marketplace facilitator only
5. You accept all disclaimers and limitations of liability
6. You are legally authorized to enter into this agreement

If you do not agree to these Terms, you may not access or use the Platform.

Version 1.1 — Effective December 1, 2025