Terms of Service

Updated as of 10/29/2024

Introduction

Welcome to WNY Thrive, an online marketplace and directory for connecting users with businesses and nonprofits across Western New York and the Finger Lakes. By using our services, you agree to these Terms of Service.

User Accounts

You need an account to access certain features, including adding a listing, submitting, news, events, and promotions to our website, and leaving reviews. You’re responsible for securing your login details and reporting any unauthorized use.

Your Responsibilities

You agree not to engage in illegal or disruptive activities and are responsible for the accuracy of your business listing and any reviews you submit.

Permitted Content

Eligible Listings

Your listing is permitted if you:

• Run a business or nonprofit headquartered in Western New York or the Finger Lakes.
• Manage a blog or page that positively promotes these regions.

News, Events, and Specials

Eligible listings may submit news, events, and specials related to your organization for inclusion on the WNY Thrive platform. Content should align with our mission of supporting and uplifting the community, and it must be:

• Relevant: Content should pertain to the business, services, community events, or specials you wish to promote.
• Accurate: Details, dates, and descriptions should be current and correct to avoid user confusion or misinformation.
• Compliant with Guidelines: Content should be positive, constructive, and align with our guidelines. Content promoting illegal activities, hate speech, or discrimination is prohibited.

WNY Thrive reserves the right to edit, modify, or remove any submissions that do not align with these guidelines or our terms of service.

User-Generated Reviews

Reviews on WNY Thrive are intended to reflect positive user experiences and foster a supportive community atmosphere. The following guidelines apply:

• Positive Reviews: We encourage constructive, positive reviews that highlight user experiences with businesses and services. Reviews submitted must be respectful, genuine, and comply with our terms of service.
• Review Display: Positive reviews will be featured on business listings to enhance visibility and support local organizations. By posting a review, you grant WNY Thrive permission to display it on the website and, if applicable, share it through promotional channels.
• Moderation Rights: WNY Thrive reserves the right to remove, modify, or decline any review that violates these terms, receives substantial complaints, or is deemed inconsistent with our platform’s values.

Prohibited Listings

We do not accept listings for:

• Adult content and services
• Illegal substances
• Gambling services
• Multi-level marketing (MLM) schemes
• Weapons and firearms
• Counterfeit and pirated goods
• Hate speech and discrimination
• Illicit financial services
• Unverified health claims
• Unlicensed businesses
• Other illegal activities

WNY Thrive reserves the right to deny any listing that doesn’t align with our values.

User-Generated Reviews and Promotions

By listing and posting reviews, you permit WNY Thrive to share your news, events, and reviews on our platform and social media. We are not responsible for any incorrect information provided by your organization or individuals.

Payments and Cancellations

Payments for Premium Listings are automatically billed monthly. If payment fails and is not resolved within 15 days, your listing may be downgraded to a Basic Listing until payment is successfully received. Users can cancel their Premium Listing plan anytime, but all payments are non-refundable.

Web Developer Connection Form

If you submit a web development inquiry through our form, we may share your information with our web developer to facilitate communication and project planning. By using this form, you agree to allow us to connect you directly with our web developer.

Web Developer Connection Terms

• Customization: Additional services beyond the initial project scope are billed at $90 per hour. You will be notified of any additional expenses before they are incurred.
• User Responsibility: You are responsible for ensuring that the content submitted for web development complies with all laws and guidelines.
• No Warranty: Our Website Builder and development services are provided as-is, without warranties. Upkeep and hosting services are available separately from Brass Ring Web Solutions, with whom you agree to separate terms and conditions.

Termination of Service

We may suspend or terminate your access without notice if you violate these terms, engage in illegal activities, or disrupt our services.

No Refunds

All payments are non-refundable, including in cases of service termination.

Website Builder Terms

If using our Website Builder, please note:

• Customization and Additional Services: Additional work beyond what you specified in the form will be billed at $90 per hour. You will be notified of any expenses before we make any additions to the original project scope.
• User Responsibility: You are responsible for making sure the content you submit through the Website Builder form, text, or email follows all laws and meets our guidelines.
• No Warranty: The Website Builder is provided as-is. WNY Biz Board does not guarantee it will meet all your needs or be free from errors. All services are non-refundable.
• Upkeep and Hosting: Upkeep and hosting services are available and provided separately through Brass Ring Web Solutions. By working with Brass Ring, you agree to their terms and conditions.

Copyright and Intellectual Property

All platform content is owned by WNY Thrive or our licensors. Unauthorized reproduction or distribution is prohibited.

Limitation of Liability

WNY Thrive is not liable for damages resulting from your use of the service. You use our services at your own risk.

Governing Law

These terms are governed by New York state law, and disputes will be resolved in courts located in Buffalo, New York.

Contact Information

If you have any questions or concerns regarding our terms of service, please contact us.