Platform Master Terms
and Conditions

Last Updated: 10 November 2025

 

1. PREAMBLE

1.1.
Purpose and Scope:

1.1.1.
These Terms and Conditions (“Terms“)
govern the access to and use of the DEEP Initiatives Ecosystem (“Platform“)
accessible at https://deepfunding.ai/,  including its various initiatives and user interfaces. The
Platform consists of a set of integrated, interactive websites,
applications, and tools designed to support the operation of the DEEP
Initiatives program and its community. While certain Platform features
may interface with or utilize third-party blockchain
networks for verification, payments, or governance purposes, the Platform
itself is not built on a blockchain and operates
primarily through web-based infrastructure managed by the Platform Operator. 

1.1.2.
The Platform is established
to advance decentralized AI development by providing grants to support
innovative, ethical, and impactful AI projects, with the aim of fostering the
creation of beneficial Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). In addition, the Platform
may support or host partner-led funding initiatives that are not strictly
AI-based, provided such initiatives are fully financed by the respective
partners and remain aligned with the Platform’s mission, values, and ethical
standards. The Platform enables users to participate in a range of
activities, including but not limited to: Proposal
submission; milestone tracking; Request for Proposal (RFP) responses;
funding and ideation initiatives; governance and community engagement; and
identity and compliance tools.

1.1.3.
These Terms do not constitute
or replace any grant agreement. Any financial support awarded through DEEP
Funding is subject to a separate, legally binding grant agreement entered into
between DEEP Initiatives Inc. (“Platform Operator“) and
the User (“User“). In the event of a conflict between
these Terms and the grant agreement, the latter shall prevail. between
the User and DEEP Initiatives Inc. (“Platform Operator“).
The Platform Operator may update or amend these Terms from time
to time, as outlined in Section 1.6.

1.2.
Acceptance of Terms:

1.2.1.
By accessing or using the Platform,
Users affirm that they have read, understood, and agreed to be bound by
these Terms, including any amendments, updates, or modifications thereto
and that they have the full legal capacity to enter into this agreement and are
not prohibited from using the Platform under any Applicable Laws
or regulations. If a User does not agree with these Terms in
whole or in part, they must immediately discontinue their use of the Platform.

1.2.2.
Acceptance of these Terms is
deemed to occur when a User:

1.2.2.1.
Accesses the Platform;

1.2.2.2.
Engages in any interaction with the Platform,
including viewing, transacting, submitting proposals, participating in
governance, using identity tools or engaging in platform-based activities;

1.2.2.3.
Connects their blockchain
wallet where required to use a specific on-chain feature (e.g., Automated
Milestone Payment System transactions); or

1.2.2.4.
Utilises any services provided by the Platform Operator or
its affiliates through the Platform.

1.3.
Professional Use Only

The Platform
is intended for use exclusively by professional and knowledgeable Users acting
in a business or professional capacity. It is not intended for use by
individual consumers or companies that are not acting in their capacity as
professionals. Accordingly, consumer protection laws do not apply to the use of
the Platform.

By
accepting these Terms, the User certifies that they have
sufficient expertise to understand and assess the legal and financial issues
related to the use of the Platform. Users accessing the Platform
represent and warrant that they are acting in a business or professional
capacity. The User acknowledges and agrees that it is their
responsibility to ensure their own competence, and if not, they must seek the
advice of a qualified professional before proceeding with the use of the
proposed services on the Platform.

1.4.
Nature of the Platform:

1.4.1.
The Platform is based on an
automated, decentralised protocol through autonomous
Smart Contracts deployed on a Third-Party Blockchain
Network.

1.4.2.
Users
retain full control and responsibility over their assets and transactions, as
set forth in Section 5 (Platform Operator).

1.5.
Registration and Wallet Connection

Access to the Platform does
not currently require Users to connect a blockchain
wallet. Most Platform features, including browsing, proposal submission,
and community participation, are available through standard web-based
interfaces.

However, authorized partners or
grantees who access the back-office or
operations portal for Automated Milestone Payment System funding and settlement
operations may be required to connect a compatible blockchain
wallet for transactional purposes.

By connecting their wallet, Users acknowledge and
agree to the following:

1.5.1.
Acceptance of Terms: The act of connecting a wallet constitutes acceptance of
these Terms including full awareness and understanding of associated
risks.

1.5.2.
Understanding of Risk Disclosure: Users confirm that they have read and understood
the Risk Disclosure outlined in Section 11 (Risk Disclosure).

1.5.3.
Self-Custody Responsibility: Users are responsible for securing their blockchain wallets, private keys, and recovery phrases. The
Platform Operator does not control the wallets, manage or recover lost
credentials.

1.6.
Amendments and Modifications:

1.6.1.
The Platform Operator reserves
the right to amend, modify, or update these Terms at any time, at its
sole discretion, to reflect changes in legal, regulatory, technical, or
business requirements. Users will be notified of any material changes
through official communication channels, including but not limited to:

1.6.1.1.
Notices published on the Platform;

1.6.1.2.
Email notifications (if applicable);

1.6.1.3.
Updates within the Platform‘s
user interface.

1.6.2.
Ongoing use of the Platform
following any modifications signifies the acceptance of the updated Terms.
Users are advised to regularly review the Terms to stay aware of
their rights and duties.

1.7.
Eligibility and Restrictions:       

1.7.1.
The Platform is intended
solely for individuals or entities that possess sufficient knowledge and
expertise to understand the risks associated with the services offered on the Platform.
All eligibility determinations are made at the discretion of the Platform
in conjunction with the Platform Operator and are considered final and
binding. The Platform reserves the right to amend or supplement these
criteria as necessary to comply with evolving legal, regulatory, and
program-specific requirements. Accordingly, the following categories are
eligible to apply for funding:

1.7.1.1.
Individuals:

1.7.1.1.1.
Independent developers, researchers,
or professionals contributing to decentralized AI and blockchain
innovation.

1.7.1.1.2.
Must demonstrate expertise and a
commitment to ethical and responsible development.

1.7.1.2.
Teams and Organizations:

1.7.1.2.1.
Startup teams, research groups, companies,
and non-profit organizations.

1.7.1.2.2.
Teams must have clearly defined
roles, relevant qualifications, and a track record of delivering results.

1.7.1.2.3.
Multidisciplinary teams are
encouraged to ensure a broader project scope.

1.7.1.3.
Global Participation:

1.7.1.3.1.
Applicants from any country can
apply, ensuring a diverse and inclusive program.

1.7.2.
By using the Platform, Users
represent and warrant that:

1.7.2.1.
Individuals are at least 18 years
old or the age of majority in their jurisdiction, provided they are acting in a
business or professional capacity as required by Section 1.3 (Professional Use
Only);

1.7.2.2.
They have the legal capacity to
enter into binding agreements;

1.7.2.3.
They will comply with all Applicable
Laws and regulations;

1.7.2.4.
They are not located in, under the
control of, or a national or resident of any jurisdiction where the use of the Platform
is prohibited or would subject the Platform Operator to any legal or
regulatory liabilities.

1.7.2.5.
They are not subject to economic
sanctions imposed by the United Nations, the European Union, the United States,
or any other applicable jurisdiction.

1.7.3.
The Platform Operator reserves
the right to restrict or terminate access to Users who do not meet these
eligibility criteria.

1.8.
Compliance and Regulatory
Considerations:

1.8.1.
No Financial, Legal, or Tax Advice

The Platform Operator does
not provide financial, legal, or tax advice. All information provided through
the User Interface is for informational purposes only and should not be
construed as advice of any kind.

1.8.2.
Users
are solely responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable legal, tax,
and regulatory obligations in their jurisdiction. The Platform Operator
makes no representations regarding the legality of the Platform‘s
services in any specific country or region. Regulatory requirements and
compliance obligations may vary, and Users should seek independent
professional advice if needed.

1.9.
Contact and Support:

1.9.1.
For inquiries, support, or feedback
regarding the Platform or these Terms, Users may contact
the Platform Operator via official communication channels listed on the Platform‘s
website.

2. DEFINITIONS

2.1.
For the purposes of these Terms,
the following capitalised terms shall have the
meanings set forth below, regardless of whether they appear in singular or plural
form:

2.1.1.
“Tokens”:
Digital representations of value or rights that may be transferred and stored
electronically using blockchain technology or similar
technology, excluding the Token. Tokens representing securities or
financial instruments shall not be considered as “Tokens” for the
purpose of these Terms and shall not be exchanged or transferred via the Platform.

2.1.2.
“Token Transaction”: refers to any transfer, exchange, minting, redemption, or
interaction involving Tokens conducted through the Smart Contracts
on a Third-Party Blockchain Network.

2.1.3.
“Platform”:
The DEEP Initiatives Ecosystem Platform refers to the decentralized
financial ecosystem, provided by SingularityNET and
operated and maintained by the Platform Operator. The
Platform operates independently of any central authority or
intermediary, and its functionality is governed by the rules encoded within the
Smart Contracts deployed on a Third-Party Blockchain
Network.

2.1.4.
“Platform Operator”: refers to DEEP Initiatives Inc. or any designated
affiliated entity responsible for operating and maintaining the Platform
interfaces and coordination of Initiatives.

2.1.5.
“User”:
Refers to any individual or entity accessing or utilising
the Platform.

2.1.6.
“User Interface” is the front-end web application and is an independent
interface that allows Users to interact with the Platform and
integrated Smart Contracts. The User Interface simplifies
interactions by enabling wallet connections, transaction submissions, and
position monitoring, but it does not execute or control any Token
Transactions on the Third-Party Blockchain
Network.

2.1.7.
“User Rewards”: means any tokens, stablecoins,
grants, or other forms of compensation or benefits earned or awarded to
Users, Circle Members, or teams through participation in Initiatives or
Programs on the Platform, subject to the applicable initiative-specific
terms and conditions.

2.1.8.
“Smart Contracts”: Self-executing programs deployed on the Third-Party Blockchain Network that facilitate and govern Token
transactions.

2.1.9.
“Third-Party Blockchain
Network”: A decentralized blockchain
infrastructure that hosts the Token and its associated Smart
Contracts.

2.1.10.
“Initiatives”: Collective term for Platform programs, including
Funding & Ideation, Governance & Community, and Identity &
Compliance.

2.1.11.
“User Generated Content”: or “Submission” means any content, Proposal, idea, deliverable, code,
documentation, governance input, or data submitted by Users through any Platform
feature or initiative, as further governed by the relevant initiative-specific
sections of these Terms.

2.1.12.
“Gas Fees”:
Refer to transaction fees paid to a Third-Party Blockchain
Network to validate and execute Smart Contracts interactions. Users
are solely responsible for paying Gas Fees, which fluctuate based on
network demand.

2.1.13.
“Grants”:
refers to financial allocations made to selected Proposals, subject to compliance with milestones,
KPIs, and initiative-specific requirements.

2.1.14.
“Automated Milestone Payment
System” means the smart contract–based process that conditionally releases
approved funds or rewards to Users or Grant Recipients upon the
confirmation of milestone completion or satisfaction of predefined criteria.
This system operates autonomously on a third-party blockchain
network and is entirely non-custodial. The Platform Operator does not
hold, manage, or control any funds at any stage of the process.

2.1.15.
“Grant Recipient”: means any User, individual, team, or entity whose Proposals has
been approved to receive a Grant under the Platform’s Funding &
Ideation initiatives, subject to these Terms, and the provisions of
Section 17 (Funding & Ideation Rules).

2.1.16.
“Community Content”: means any blogs, posts, comments, reviews, or other content
created by Users on community portals (e.g., http://deep-communities.ai).

2.1.17.
“Proposal”:
means a project idea or
funding request submitted by Users through the Platform
for review and potential selection seeking funding, governance approval, or
community endorsement.

2.1.18.
“Submission”: refers to any content, proposal, deliverable, or material,
including, without limitation, text, code, documentation, designs, or media,
that a User uploads, transmits, or otherwise provides through the Platform
or in connection with any Initiative (such as Funding & Ideation, or
DEEP-Lab). Each Submission remains subject to these Terms and,
where applicable, initiative-specific rules and intellectual-property
provisions.

2.1.19.
“Milestones”: refers to pre-defined objectives tied to a Proposal
that must be achieved before further disbursement of funding.

2.1.20.
“Ideation”:
Processes through which Users can submit, refine, or vote on conceptual
ideas, whether open-ended or tied to specific challenges or requests-for-proposals
(RFPs).

2.1.21.
“Reputation Score”: is a non-transferable indicator of a User’s
standing or contribution within the ecosystem, calculated under the Voting
Policy and used to weight governance voting alongside token balances.”

2.1.22.
“Request for Proposals” or “RFP”: means a call for Submissions published on the Platform,
inviting Users to propose projects addressing specific goals or topics.

2.1.23.
“Wallet Linking Tool”: A feature allowing Users to connect blockchain wallets to identity solutions, subject to
third-party wallet providers’ separate terms.

2.1.24.
“Digital ID”: Self-sovereign identity credentials managed via http://deep-id.ai or similar tools.

2.1.25.
“Content”:
means any text, data, documents, comments, links, or other material uploaded or
shared by Users via the Platform.

2.1.26.
“Applicable Laws” refers to the laws of the British Virgin Islands and
legal requirements that govern the use of the Platform, including but
not limited to financial regulations, anti-money laundering (AML) laws, tax
obligations, and data protection laws.

2.1.27.
“Interim Measures” refer to temporary legal remedies or injunctions granted by
a court or arbitrator to preserve the status quo or prevent imminent harm
pending the outcome of a dispute resolution process.

2.1.28.
“Arbitral Award” refers to the final and binding decision issued by an
arbitrator in accordance with the LCE London, as outlined in Section 13.

3. PLATFORM
   DESCRIPTION

3.1.
Decentralised and Autonomous Infrastructure

The Platform is composed of a
suite of web-based applications and integrated tools designed to facilitate
participation in the DEEP Funding ecosystem. It operates primarily
through conventional technology infrastructure managed by the Platform
Operator.

While certain components, such as
elements of the back-office for Automated Milestone Payment System-based
operations or potential voting portals, may in the future integrate with smart
contracts or blockchain-based systems, the Platform
as a whole does not currently operate on a blockchain
or through autonomous on-chain logic. Any blockchain-enabled
features, when introduced, will be communicated transparently and governed by
specific technical and legal terms. The Automated Milestone Payment System
functions as a non-custodial, self-executing process that conditionally
releases approved funds upon the confirmation of predefined milestones, without
any custody, control, or discretionary management of funds by the Platform
Operator.

The Platform provides a range
of initiatives and services supporting the growth and sustainability of the
DEEP Funding Ecosystem. These initiatives are organised
into four principal categories, Funding & Ideation, Governance
& Community, and Identity & Compliance, each of which
reflects the evolving needs of the community and may be expanded over time. By
participating in any of these initiatives, Users acknowledge and
accept that their activities are governed by these Terms as well as by
the initiative-specific rules set forth in the relevant Sections 17 to 20
(Initiative-Specific Rules). The Platform provides a suite of decentralised core features grouped as follows:

3.2.
Core features

3.2.1.
Funding and Ideation

3.2.1.1.
The funding and
ideation initiatives of the Platform, including but not limited
to deepfunding.ai, deep-ideation.ai, and ai4p.ai,
constitute the primary mechanisms through which projects and ideas are
identified, refined, and supported. Through these sites, Users may
submit Proposals for funding, participate in challenges, or contribute
innovative ideas aimed at advancing the objectives of
the DEEP Initiatives Ecosystem. The Platform is intended to facilitate
community participation in the DEEP Funding program by allowing Users to
submit, browse, discuss, and provide feedback on project Proposals  and Requests for Proposals (RFPs).
It is designed to support transparency, collaboration, and innovation within
the SingularityNET ecosystem.

3.2.1.2.
Proposals are typically subject to review processes,
milestone-based funding disbursements, and ongoing reporting obligations. Users
engaging in these initiatives understand and agree that funding is
not guaranteed, remains conditional upon satisfaction of the relevant criteria,
and may be withheld or withdrawn in cases of non-compliance. Ideas and Proposals
submitted on the Platform may generate rewards or recognition, but such
benefits do not constitute financial instruments, nor do they create
enforceable obligations on the part of the Platform Operator.

3.2.2.
Governance and
Community

3.2.2.1.
The Governance and
Community feature enables participatory involvement in the development and
direction of the DEEP Funding ecosystem. It provides tools and spaces, such as deep-communities.ai, that support
collaboration, discussion, and collective input from Users. Community
activities primarily focus on operational coordination, facilitated
through circles, working groups, and community teams that help organise and review initiatives across the ecosystem.
Governance functions are mainly limited to voting on project or grant
proposals, allowing the broader community to contribute to funding decisions.

3.2.2.2.
Governance and
community tools operate through web-based systems managed by the Platform
Operator. The Platform does not use smart contracts or
delegation mechanisms for governance at this time. Future integrations, if
introduced, will be communicated transparently and governed by updated terms.

3.2.3.
Identity and
Compliance

3.2.3.1.
The identity and
compliance initiatives of the Platform, including but not limited to deep-id.ai, are
focused on the development and deployment of decentralised
identity solutions and compliance tools. These features may include wallet
linking tools, the creation and management of digital identity credentials,
and consent-based data flows designed to support self-sovereign identity. Users
remain solely responsible for the accuracy of their identity information,
the safeguarding of their wallets and credentials, and their compliance with
applicable legal and regulatory obligations.

3.2.3.2.
The Platform
Operator provides these tools on an “as-is” basis, makes no representation
regarding their sufficiency for regulatory compliance, and disclaims all
liability for misuse, security breaches, or failures in identity verification.
The use of other privacy-preserving technologies shall not relieve Users of
their personal responsibility for legal compliance.

3.2.4.
Future Initiatives

3.2.4.1.
The Platform
Operator reserves the right to launch additional initiatives,
features, or services that fall within or complement the categories described above.
Such initiatives shall automatically be deemed subject to these Terms
and shall be further elaborated in additional terms or policies issued at the
time of their release.

3.2.4.2.
Users acknowledge and agree that participation in
future initiatives carries the same risks, obligations, and limitations
of liability as those set out herein.

3.2.5.
The detailed rules
governing these initiatives are set out in Sections 17 to 20
(Initiative-Specific Rules).

4. DECENTRALISATION AND AUTONOMY

While the Platform itself operates
primarily through conventional web infrastructure, certain operational
components may integrate with autonomous Smart Contracts deployed on third-party
blockchain networks: 

4.1.
Autonomous Smart Contracts: Certain operational transactions, particularly those
related to back-office and Automated Milestone Payment System-based
funding or settlement activities, may be facilitated
through autonomous Smart Contracts deployed on third-party blockchain networks. These Smart Contracts operate
independently of the Platform’s core infrastructure and execute automatically
according to predefined rules and technical conditions established in their
underlying code. These Smart Contracts operate independently, and all transfers
made through the Automated Milestone Payment System occur directly
between the participating blockchain wallets; the Platform
Operator never takes possession or control of any funds.

4.2.
No
intermediary role: In relation to any Automated
Milestone Payment System-based payments, milestone settlements, or other
transactions executed through Smart Contracts, the Platform Operator does
not act as an intermediary, custodian, or counterparty. Such transactions occur directly
between the participating Users (or their authorised
partners) and the relevant blockchain network. Users
who interact with Smart Contracts do so at their own discretion and
risk, and are solely responsible for verifying the contract parameters,
transaction details, and wallet security before initiating or confirming any
transaction.

5. PLATFORM OPERATOR

The Platform Operator is
responsible for providing, maintaining, and developing the web-based
infrastructure that enables Users to access and participate in the DEEP
Funding ecosystem, including its initiatives, programs, and related tools.
While most Platform interactions occur through conventional web interfaces,
certain operational processes, such as Automated Milestone Payment System-based
funding or settlement operations, may integrate with Smart Contracts deployed
on third-party blockchain networks. In such
cases, the Platform Operator’s role is limited to facilitating the connection
between Users and those external systems.

5.1.
Duties of the Platform Operator

The Platform Operator shall,
to the extent possible, provide and maintain the User Interface through
which Users can access the Platform.

5.2.
No Custodial Services

The Platform Operator does
not provide custodial services for any Tokens. Users remain
solely responsible for securing their wallets, private keys, and recovery
phrases as set forth in Section 6.3 (Security and User Responsibility).

The Platform Operator:

5.2.1.
Does not store or manage user
assets: All Tokens are managed
directly by the Smart Contracts on the Third-Party Blockchain Network.

5.2.2.
Cannot recover lost credentials: The Platform Operator has no ability to recover lost
or compromised private keys.

6. ACCESS AND USE OF THE PLATFORM

6.1.
Wallet Connection Requirement
(Automated Milestone Payment System Operations Only)

Most Users can access and use
the Platform’s web-based features without connecting a blockchain wallet. However, Users must
connect a compatible blockchain wallet to interact with  the Platform’s
Automated Milestone Payment System services. The Platform
currently supports Metamask wallets. Users
are responsible for ensuring that:

6.1.1.
Their connected wallet is properly
configured to interact with the Platform.

6.1.2.
They have sufficient funds in their
wallet to cover Token Transactions and associated Gas Fees.

6.1.3.
They understand the mechanics and
risks of interacting with Smart Contracts.

The Platform Operator disclaims
all liability for losses resulting from errors, misconfigurations, or unauthorised access to Users’ wallets.

6.2.
Conditions of Use

By connecting to the Platform,
Users represent and warrant that they:

6.2.1.
Are authorized to use the Platform: Users confirm that they have the legal capacity and
authority to enter into a binding agreement under these Terms.

6.2.2.
Are acting in a professional
capacity: Users acknowledge that the Platform
is intended for professional use by professional individuals or entities
that have sufficient expertise to understand and assess the legal and financial
issues related to the use of the Platform. Users represent that
they are not accessing the Platform for personal, household, or consumer
purposes.

6.2.3.
Are Compliant with Applicable Laws: Users confirm that their activities on the Platform
comply with all Applicable Laws, including but not limited to
financial regulations, anti-money laundering (AML) requirements.

6.2.4.
Are not subject to sanctions or
restrictions: Users confirm
that they are not subject to any sanctions or restrictions imposed under Applicable
Laws. Users further confirm that they are not listed on any sanction
lists maintained by competent authorities, do not directly or indirectly own or
control any assets associated with sanctioned persons or entities, and have not
received any assets from such persons or entities. Additionally, Users confirm
that they will not engage in any transactions or activities on the Platform that
involve individuals, entities, or jurisdictions subject to such sanctions or
restrictions.

6.3.
Security and User Responsibility

Users are
responsible for maintaining the security of their access credentials and
accounts on the Platform. The Platform Operator may store
encrypted versions of access tokens or passwords strictly for authentication
and operational continuity purposes. Such data is encrypted using
industry-standard methods and cannot be decrypted or accessed by the Platform
Operator. Users must nevertheless take all reasonable precautions to
prevent unauthorized access to their accounts.. Where
a blockchain wallet is used, Users are solely
responsible for securing their blockchain wallets and
private keys. The Platform Operator does not manage, store, or recover User
credentials, and Users must take all necessary precautions to
prevent unauthorized access to their wallets.

The User must:

6.3.1.
Secure Their Wallets: Implement appropriate security measures, such as using
hardware wallets and securing recovery phrases.

6.3.2.
Verify Transactions: Carefully verify transaction details before initiating any Token
Transactions through the User Interface or directly on the Third-Party
Blockchain Network.

The Platform Operator
disclaims all liability for losses resulting from unauthorised
access to User wallets or errors in Token Transactions initiated
by Users.

6.4.
Suspension or Termination of Access

The Platform Operator
reserves the right to suspend or terminate a User’s access to the User
Interface at its sole discretion if the User violates these Terms
or engages in prohibited activities, as outlined in Section 9.3 (Prohibited
Conduct).

Users remain responsible for managing their positions and
complying with the protocol’s rules, even if their access to the User
Interface is restricted.

7. PLATFORM FEATURES

7.1.
Overview of Services:

The Platform provides a suite
of web-based tools and integrated services that support participation in
the DEEP Funding ecosystem. These tools enable Users to collaborate,
submit and review proposals, track milestones, access community resources, and
take part in ecosystem initiatives. The key services offered by the Platform
include, but are not limited to:

7.1.1.
Funding & Grants (deepfunding.ai)

7.1.1.1.
The funding initiative constitutes
the cornerstone of the Platform. It is designed to provide structured,
transparent, and decentralised mechanisms through
which Users may seek financial support for projects aligned with the
goals of the ecosystem.

7.1.1.2.
Users
may submit proposals through a guided, multi-step interface requiring the
provision of project information, milestones, budgets, and anticipated
deliverables. Proposals are stored on the Platform’s databases and made
accessible to the community for review. Once published, proposals may be
subject to open comments, scoring, or governance voting. Successful proposals
may qualify for grant disbursements, which are released in tranches tied to
specific milestones.

7.1.1.3.
User rights and obligations

7.1.1.3.1.
Users
are entitled to have their Proposals
published, provided they comply with eligibility criteria.

7.1.1.3.2.
Users
must ensure that all information submitted is accurate, complete, and not
misleading.

7.1.1.3.3.
Users
receiving grants must report on progress, maintain transparency, and
cooperate with monitoring or audit processes.

7.1.1.4.
Risks and limitations

7.1.1.4.1.
Funding is discretionary and subject
to compliance with milestones; it may be suspended, withheld, or
reclaimed.

7.1.1.4.2.
The Platform Operator does
not guarantee the sufficiency, timeliness, or continuity of funding.

7.1.1.4.3.
The Operator disclaims
liability for the success or failure of funded projects.

7.1.2.
Ideation Platforms (deep-ideation.ai and ai4p.ai)

7.1.2.1.
The ideation platforms are
designed to capture, refine, and reward ideas submitted by Users. They
operate both as an always-open repository of Proposals
and as a challenge-based system linked to specific themes or ecosystem needs.

7.1.2.2.
Users may
submit ideas directly via the web interface. Submissions may include
descriptions, supporting documents, or links to external resources. Other Users
may review, comment upon, or endorse these ideas. In some cases, Submissions
may be automatically linked to reward mechanisms, including token-based
incentives. The ai4p.ai platform extends this system by
focusing specifically on artificial intelligence projects and employing
AI-assisted tools to support Users in drafting and refining their Submissions.

7.1.2.3.
Users rights and obligations

7.1.2.3.1.
Intellectual property treatment for
all Proposals and related Submissions
shall be governed exclusively by Section 16 (Intellectual Property Rights).

7.1.2.3.2.
Users are
required to ensure originality and legality of their Submissions, and to
avoid infringement of third-party rights.

7.1.2.3.3.
Users acknowledge
that the Submission of an idea does not guarantee funding, adoption, or
further recognition beyond what is explicitly provided.

7.1.2.4.
Risks and limitations

7.1.2.4.1.
Ideas may be subject to public
exposure and may be reused or adapted by others in the community.

7.1.2.4.2.
The Platform Operator does
not guarantee attribution beyond what is encoded in the Platform.

7.1.2.4.3.
Rewards, where available, are limited,
discretionary, and subject to change.

7.1.2.5.
In recognition of the modest rewards
associated with idea Submissions (e.g. ideation challenges), Users expressly
accept that:

7.1.2.5.1.
The reward is compensation for
participation only and does not create or imply ownership or proprietary rights
in the idea.

7.1.2.5.2.
Once submitted, the idea is
considered public property of the DEEP Funding community and cannot be
withdrawn or made subject to private ownership claims.

7.1.2.5.3.
Users may
not subsequently demand additional compensation, licensing fees, or recognition
beyond what is provided under the rules of the challenge.

7.1.3.
 Governance & Community Engagement (https://www.deep-communities.ai/)

7.1.3.1.
The Governance & Community
Engagement feature provides the organisational
and collaboration framework for the DEEP Funding ecosystem. It is designed to
coordinate operational activities such as proposal assessments, milestone
approvals, marketing initiatives, and other ecosystem-related projects. Through deep-communities.ai, Users can join circles, working groups, and
community teams that support the execution of these activities. The Platform
also hosts libraries of shared resources, workspaces, and communication tools
to facilitate efficient coordination and transparency across the ecosystem.

7.1.3.2.
While limited voting
functionality may be available for specific processes, primarily to enable
the wider community to evaluate and prioritise
project proposals, most activities focus on collaborative operations and
execution rather than token-based governance.

7.1.3.3.
Users rights and obligations

7.1.3.3.1.
Users may participate in governance
processes within the Platform in accordance with their roles and permissions in
the ecosystem.Voting rights are not based on token
holdings, and no blockchain wallet connection is
required to participate. Participation is facilitated through the Platform’s
web-based authentication, with eligibility and any identity checks defined in
the applicable program or initiative rules.

7.1.3.3.2.
Votes cast on project proposals or
similar initiatives are considered binding for their intended purpose, meaning
the Platform Operator will implement the results within the operational and
programmatic framework of the Platform. However, such votes are not executed or
recorded on the blockchain, and no smart contracts
govern their outcome.

7.1.3.3.3.
Users
must respect community standards when contributing content.

7.1.3.3.4.
Users
submitting Proposals must accept that
outcomes are determined by a hybrid voting model combining eligible
Token balances with each User’s Reputation Score, which may not align
with their interests.

7.1.3.4.
Risks and limitations

7.1.3.4.1.
Governance and voting processes,
while binding in outcome, are facilitated through web-based systems and
therefore depend on the integrity and performance of those systems. The
Platform Operator implements the results in good faith but makes no warranty as
to the absence of technical errors or disruptions.

7.1.3.4.2.
Voting results and community
discussions may be influenced by varying levels of participation, expertise, or
alignment of interests among Users.

7.1.3.4.3.
Community content, including blogs, posts, comments, and presentations, may be
published, reproduced, or distributed by the Platform or its delegates
for informational or promotional purposes, without remuneration to the
contributing User.

7.1.4.
Digital Identity & Compliance (http://www.deep-id.ai/)

7.1.4.1.
The digital identity initiative
provides Users with tools for establishing and managing self-sovereign
identities and compliance-related credentials. Users may create, update,
or delete digital identities linked to blockchain
wallets. They may also issue or revoke credentials and manage consent for the
sharing of data. These features are designed to reduce friction in KYC, AML, or
regulatory processes while maintaining decentralisation.
Wallet/ID connection is optional unless required by a specific feature (e.g.,
voting eligibility).

7.1.4.2.
Users rights and obligations

7.1.4.2.1.
Users
remain solely responsible for the accuracy of their identity data.

7.1.4.2.2.
Users
must safeguard their credentials, private keys, and recovery phrases.

7.1.4.2.3.
Users
must ensure their compliance with all Applicable Laws, as the Platform
does not guarantee that ZKPs or digital IDs will satisfy
regulatory standards in any jurisdiction.

7.1.4.3.
Risks and limitations

7.1.4.3.1.
The Platform Operator
disclaims liability for misuse of credentials, fraudulent activity, or breaches
of personal data security.

7.1.4.3.2.
Digital ID tools
are provided “as-is” and may not be sufficient to satisfy regulators.

7.1.4.3.3.
Users
assume all risks associated with use of identity tools in third-party contexts.

7.1.5.
Future initiatives

7.1.5.1.
The Platform is designed to
evolve continuously. The Operator may add new initiatives such as
staking mechanisms, liquidity provision, ecosystem service hubs, or compliance
enhancements. All such initiatives will fall within the scope of these Terms.

7.1.5.2.
Users
agree that their participation in future features carries the same obligations,
responsibilities, and limitations described in this document.

7.1.6.
Intellectual Property Framework

All
intellectual property matters arising from participation in any Platform feature
or initiative, including Funding & Ideation, Governance & Community,
Ideation Platforms, Identity & Compliance tools, and any future initiatives
introduced under these Terms, together with Sections 17 to 20
(Initiative-Specific Rules). For clarity:

7.1.6.1.
No additional or conflicting
intellectual property provisions shall apply within this Section;

7.1.6.2.
The ownership, waiver, or licensing
of any ideas, Proposals, Submissions,
community content, or other user-generated material is determined solely
under Section 16 (Intellectual Property Rights); and

7.1.6.3.
In case of conflict between this
Section and any feature-specific rule, Section 16 (Intellectual Property
Rights) shall prevail.

8. FEES AND PAYMENTS

8.1.
Fee Structure:

8.1.1.
The use of services on the Platform
may be subject to fees, which are determined by the Platform Operator
and subject to change at any time. The applicable fees include but are not
limited to:

8.1.1.1.
Transaction Fees: Where blockchain-based
transactions are involved, for example, in Automated Milestone Payment
System or settlement operations, Users or partners may incur third-party
network costs such as Gas Fees, which are charged directly by the
relevant blockchain network and are not retained by
the Platform Operator.

8.1.1.2.
Future Fees: The Platform Operator may introduce or modify Platform
fees in the future by updating these Terms and/or posting a fee
schedule on the Platform.

8.1.2.
Users
acknowledge and agree to pay all applicable fees in accordance with the current
fees schedule published on the Platform.

8.2.
Payment Methods:

8.2.1.
Payments for Platform
services and disbursements are currently conducted primarily in FET tokens and,
in the near future, in supported stablecoins.
Partners providing funding through the Platform are expected to fund
their escrow accounts in a supported stablecoin. The Platform
may also support partner-specific tokens in the future, where such tokens are
used exclusively within partner-funded initiatives and subject to the Platform
Operator’s prior approval. Each disbursement is executed transparently,
ensuring traceability and accountability throughout the payment process. The Platform
does not allow payments in traditional fiat currency.

8.2.2.
The Platform Operator may
introduce additional payment methods or digital-asset integrations over time.
Any such additions will be communicated to Users and reflected in
updated Terms and Conditions, which will take effect upon publication.

8.2.3.
Users
must ensure that they have sufficient funds in their connected wallet to cover
any applicable fees, and failure to do so may result in the inability to access
or complete certain transactions.

8.3.
Fee Adjustments:

8.3.1.
The Platform Operator
reserves the right to adjust, introduce, or remove fees at its sole discretion.
Any changes to the fee structure will be communicated to Users via:

8.3.1.1.
Notices on the Platform;

8.3.1.2.
Email notifications (if applicable);
and

8.3.1.3.
Updates within the Platform’s
user interface.

8.3.2.
Users
are encouraged to review the fee schedule periodically to remain informed of
any updates.

8.4.
Refund Policy:

8.4.1.
All fees paid to the Platform
are non-refundable, except as required by applicable law or in cases of
verified technical errors directly attributable to the Platform Operator.
Refund requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and must be submitted
through the official support channels.

8.5.
Billing Disputes:

8.5.1.
If a User believes they have
been charged incorrectly, they must contact the Platform Operator within
thirty (30) days of the transaction. Failure to notify the Platform Operator
within this period shall result in the waiver of any claim related to the
disputed charge.

8.6.
Milestone-Based Disbursements

8.6.1.
Funds allocated under the Platform’s
programs or ecosystem initiatives are released through a milestone-based
payment system. Disbursement occurs only upon completion of pre-approved milestones,
supported by verifiable proof of progress such as deliverables, periodic
updates, or third-party audits.

8.7.
 

9. USER OBLIGATIONS AND
   RESPONSIBILITIES

9.1.
General Obligations:

9.1.1.
By accessing and using the Platform,
Users shall:

9.1.1.1.
Provide accurate, current, and
complete information when required;

9.1.1.2.
Use the Platform only for
lawful purposes and in accordance with these Terms;

9.1.1.3.
Abstain from any activities that may
interfere with the integrity, security, or performance of the Platform;

9.1.1.4.
Failure to comply with these
obligations may result in the suspension or termination of the User‘s
access to the Platform.

9.2.
Prohibited Conduct:

9.2.1.
Users
shall not engage in any of the following prohibited activities while using the Platform:

9.2.1.1.
Fraudulent Activities: Engaging in any fraudulent, deceptive, or manipulative
conduct that could harm the Platform or other Users.

9.2.1.2.
Unauthorised Access: Attempting to gain unauthorised access to the Platform, its systems, or
any associated networks.

9.2.1.3.
Exploitation of Vulnerabilities: Using the Platform to exploit bugs,
vulnerabilities, or loopholes in Smart Contracts or Platform features.

9.2.1.4.
Circumventing Fees: Users must not attempt to bypass Gas Fees, Platform
Fees, or other costs associated with using the Platform.

9.2.1.5.
Disrupting Network Operations: Users must not deploy bots, scripts, or other
automated systems to disrupt or manipulate the Platform’s operations or
other Users’ interactions with the Platform.

9.2.1.6.
Unlawful Activities: Conducting or facilitating any activity that violates Applicable
Laws, regulations, or legal obligations, including but not limited to money
laundering, terrorism financing, or tax evasion.

9.2.1.7.
Intellectual Property Violations: Infringing upon the intellectual property rights of the Platform
Operator or any third parties.

9.3.
Reporting and Cooperation:

9.3.1.
Users shall
promptly report any suspected security breaches, unauthorised
access, or other suspicious activities related to the Platform. The Platform
Operator reserves the right to cooperate with regulatory authorities and
law enforcement agencies in investigating any such incidents.

9.4.
Suspension or Termination of Access:

9.4.1.
Any violation of the provisions in
Section 9.3 (Prohibited Conduct) may result in legal action and the immediate
suspension or termination of the User‘s access to the Platform. The
Platform Operator reserves the right to suspend or terminate a User‘s
access to the Platform if::

9.4.1.1.
The User violates these Terms
or engages in prohibited conduct;

9.4.1.2.
Required by applicable law or
regulatory order;

9.4.1.3.
The Platform Operator
determines that continued access poses a risk to the Platform‘s
security, stability, or integrity.

9.4.2.
Users
whose access has been suspended or terminated shall not attempt to re-access
the Platform without prior written approval from the Platform
Operator.

10. USER ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Users
interact directly with the Platform’s Smart Contracts when engaging in
on-chain activities. By initiating any transaction involving
Tokens or digital assets (including but not limited to voting, milestone
payments, or Automated Milestone Payment System operations).  The Smart Contracts may contain bugs or
vulnerabilities that could result in unexpected losses. Failure to verify
transaction details or understand the Platform’s rules may result in
financial loss, for which the Platform Operator disclaims all liability.

10.1.
Users acknowledge
and agree that their use of the Platform is subject to compliance with
these Terms and all Applicable Laws and regulations in its
jurisdiction, such as Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter-Terrorism
Financing (CTF) regulations, and specially in regards to:

10.1.1.
Securities laws and regulations
governing digital assets;

10.1.2.
Data protection and privacy laws
applicable in their jurisdiction. 

10.2.
Irreversibility of Transactions

All Token Transactions
conducted through the Smart Contracts are final and irreversible once
confirmed on the Third-Party Blockchain Network.

Users must
exercise caution when initiating transactions, as they cannot be modified,
reversed, or canceled once recorded on the Third-Party Blockchain
Network.

10.3.
Gas Fees and Transaction Costs

Users acknowledge that all transactions
conducted through the Platform require Gas Fees paid to the
Third-Party Blockchain Network to validate and
process the transaction.

10.3.1.
Responsibility for Gas Fees: Users are solely responsible for ensuring
that their wallets contain sufficient funds to cover Gas Fees.

10.3.2.
Fluctuation of Gas Fees: Gas Fees are determined by the underlying blockchain network, are subject to significant fluctuations
based on demand, and may increase during periods of high congestion. The Platform
Operator bears no responsibility for failed transactions caused by
insufficient Gas Fees or network delays.

10.3.3.
Failed Transactions: Transactions may fail if insufficient Gas Fees are
provided. The Platform Operator disclaims liability for any failed
transactions due to insufficient fees or network conditions.

11. RISK DISCLOSURE

11.1.
General Acknowledgment of Risks:

11.1.1.
Users
acknowledge that the use of the Platform involves various risks inherent
to blockchain-based services and decentralised
finance (DeFi). By accessing and using the Platform,
Users accept the following risks, including but not limited to:

11.1.1.1.
Regulatory Risks: The regulatory environment for blockchain
technology and digital assets is evolving, and Users must comply with
all Applicable Laws and regulations.

11.1.1.2.
Market Risks: Digital asset prices are highly volatile and can fluctuate
significantly, leading to potential financial losses.         

11.1.1.3.
Security Risks: Users are responsible for securing their accounts,
wallets, and private keys against unauthorised
access, phishing, and hacking attempts.

11.1.1.4.
Liquidity Risks: There is no guarantee of liquidity for any digital assets,
which may affect Users‘ ability to buy, sell, or exchange their
holdings.

11.2.
Smart Contract Risks:

11.2.1.
Users acknowledge
that the Platform relies on Smart Contracts deployed on the Third-Party
Blockchain Network, which:

11.2.1.1.
Are immutable once deployed and
cannot be modified;

11.2.1.2.
May contain bugs or security
vulnerabilities despite auditing efforts. The Platform Operator does not
audit or guarantee Smart Contracts. While the Smart Contracts may
be audited by third parties, the Platform Operator does not guarantee
their security or functionality.

11.2.1.3.
Are subject to blockchain
network conditions that may impact performance and availability.

11.2.2.
Users agree
that they will conduct their own due diligence before interacting with any Smart
Contracts on the Platform.

11.3.
Third-Party Risks:

11.3.1.
Users
acknowledge that the Platform may integrate or rely on third-party
services, including decentralised exchanges,
liquidity providers, and wallet services. The Platform disclaims any
liability for losses or disruptions caused by third-party services.

11.4.
No Guarantee of Funding or Profit:

11.4.1.
Users
acknowledge that their participation in the Platform, including submitting
proposals, joining initiatives, or engaging in community activities, does not
guarantee the receipt of any funding, grant, profit, or other financial
benefit. Any funding, milestone payment, or User Reward is contingent
upon successful selection, approval, and completion of applicable criteria and
may be governed by separate agreements between the recipient, the Platform
Operator, ASI, or other affiliated
entities.

11.4.2.
In the event of any inconsistency or
conflict between these Terms and a specific funding or grant agreement,
the terms of the specific agreement shall prevail.

11.4.3.
The Platform does not offer staking, trading, or investment services, and no
participation in the Platform should be construed as an investment or as
creating any expectation of profit. All participation is voluntary and
undertaken at the User’s own discretion and risk.

11.4.4.
 All financial decisions made by Users
are at their own discretion and risk.

12. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

Users acknowledge
that they assume full responsibility for their interactions with the Platform
and agree to the following limitations on the Platform Operator’s
liability.

12.1.
Assumption of Risks for Users

The Platform
Operator disclaims all liability for any losses or damages arising from Token
Transactions initiated by Users on the Platform.

Specifically,
the Platform Operator shall not be liable for these risks, which are not
limited to the following list:

12.1.1.1.
Incorrect or unauthorised
transactions: as outlined in section 9.1

12.1.1.2.
Unauthorised access to wallets: as
outlined in Section 6.3

12.1.1.3.
Transaction failures: as outlined in Section 5.3.

12.1.1.4.
Loss of private keys:  Users are
responsible for securing their private keys, recovery phrases, and other wallet
credentials. The Platform Operator cannot recover lost credentials.

12.1.1.5.
Bugs, vulnerabilities, or exploits: The Smart Contracts may contain bugs,
vulnerabilities, or exploits that could result in unexpected behavior or loss
of funds.

12.1.1.6.
Protocol changes or forks: The underlying blockchain may
undergo changes, including forks or upgrades, that
could impact the functionality of the Smart Contracts.

12.1.1.7.
Permanent Loss of Funds: Issues with the Smart Contracts may result in
permanent loss of funds or positions.

12.1.1.8.
Network Failures: Issues with the underlying Third-Party Blockchain Network, including node failures, network
congestion, or attacks.

12.1.1.9.
Regulatory Actions: Changes in laws or regulations that affect the operation or
legality of the Platform.

12.1.1.10.
Force Majeure Events: Acts of God, natural disasters, wars, cyberattacks,
or other unforeseen events.

If any
jurisdiction limits the extent to which liability may be disclaimed or limited,
the Platform Operator’s liability shall be limited to the maximum extent
permitted by law.

12.2.
No Warranty:

12.2.1.
The Platform is provided on
an “as-is” and “as-available” basis without warranties of
any kind, express or implied, including but not limited to:

12.2.1.1.
Fitness for a particular purpose;

12.2.1.2.
Non-infringement;

12.2.1.3.
Accuracy, reliability, or
availability of Platform services.

13. INDEMNIFICATION

13.1.
By accessing and using the Platform,
Users agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the Platform
Operator and its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, agents, and
representatives (collectively, the “Indemnified Parties”) from and
against any and all claims, demands, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and
expenses, including reasonable legal fees, arising out of or related to:

13.1.1.
User’s Use of the Platform: Any activities conducted by the User on or through
the Platform, including interactions with Smart Contracts and Token
Transactions.

13.1.2.
Violation of Terms: Any breach by the User of these Terms.

13.1.3.
Violation of Applicable Laws: Any breach by the User of applicable local,
national, or international laws, regulations, or rules.

13.1.4.
Third-Party Claims: Any claims brought by third parties as a result of the User’s
actions on the Platform, including claims of intellectual property
infringement, fraud, or illegal activities.

13.2.
 Scope of Indemnification

The User’s indemnification
obligation extends to the following:

13.2.1.
Legal Costs and Fees: Reasonable legal costs, attorney fees, court costs, and
expenses incurred by the Indemnified Parties in defending any claim.

13.2.2.
Settlement Amounts: Any amounts paid in settlement of a claim, provided that
the Platform Operator obtains the User’s consent before agreeing
to a settlement (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld).

13.2.3.
Damages and Losses: Any damages, losses, fines, penalties, or liabilities
incurred by the Indemnified Parties as a result of the User’s actions.

13.3.
Exceptions to Indemnification

The User’s indemnification
obligation does not apply to claims, damages, or losses arising solely from:

13.3.1.
Gross Negligence or Willful
Misconduct: Any gross negligence or willful
misconduct by the Platform Operator or its affiliates.

13.3.2.
Platform Operator’s Breach of Terms: Any fundamental breach of these Terms by the Platform
Operator that directly causes harm to the User.

The burden of proving that a claim falls within one of these
exceptions lies with the User.

13.4.
Third-Party Claims

If any third-party claim is brought
against the Platform Operator or other Indemnified Parties as a
result of the User’s activities on the Platform, the User agrees
to:

13.4.1.
Assume the Defense: Take responsibility for defending the claim at the User’s
own expense.

13.4.2.
Appoint Legal Counsel: Appoint legal counsel reasonably acceptable to the
Indemnified Parties to manage the defense.

13.4.3.
Reimburse Costs: Reimburse the Indemnified Parties for any expenses incurred
in participating in the defense of the claim.

The Platform Operator reserves
the right to participate in the defense of any third-party claim at its own
expense and to approve any proposed settlement terms.

13.5.
Indemnification Process

The following process applies to any
indemnification claim made under this section:

13.5.1.
Notice of Claim: The Indemnified Parties must notify the User promptly
upon becoming aware of any claim that may give rise to an indemnification
obligation. Failure to provide timely notice does not relieve the User of
their indemnification obligations, except to the extent that the delay
materially prejudices the User’s ability to defend the claim.

13.5.2.
Defense and Settlement: The User must assume control of the defense of the
claim and may settle the claim only with the prior written consent of the
Indemnified Parties.

13.5.3.
Cooperation: The Indemnified Parties agree to cooperate fully with
the User in the defense of the claim, including providing documents,
information, and testimony as reasonably requested.

13.6.
Limitation on Indemnification
Liability

The User’s indemnification
obligations are subject to the following limitations:

13.6.1.
Proportional Liability: The User’s indemnification obligation is limited to
the extent that the damages, losses, or liabilities incurred by the Indemnified
Parties are proportionally attributable to the User’s actions or
omissions.

13.6.2.
Jurisdictional Limitations: The indemnification obligations are subject to any
limitations imposed by the laws of the jurisdiction governing these Terms,
as outlined in Section 14 (Governing Law and Dispute Resolution).

13.7.
 No Waiver of Immunity

Nothing in this section shall be
construed as a waiver of any legal immunity or defense available to the
Indemnified Parties under applicable law. The Platform Operator reserves
the right to assert any and all legal defenses to minimize its liability.

14. GOVERNING LAW AND DISPUTE
    RESOLUTION

14.1.
Governing Law:

14.1.1.
These Terms shall be governed
by and construed in accordance with the laws of the British Virgin Islands,
without regard to its conflict of law provisions. Any dispute arising from or
related to these Terms, including questions regarding their existence,
validity, or termination, shall be resolved through arbitration in accordance
with the provisions of this section.

14.2.
Amicable Dispute Resolution:

14.2.1.
In the event of a dispute arising
from or relating to these Terms, the parties agree to resolve the
dispute through the following process:

14.2.1.1.
Negotiation:
The parties shall attempt to resolve the dispute amicably through good-faith
negotiations.

14.2.1.2.
Mediation:
If the dispute cannot be resolved through negotiation, it shall be referred to
mediation administered by a mutually agreed-upon mediator.

14.2.1.3.
Arbitration:
The arbitration shall be conducted as follows:

14.2.1.3.1.
Number of Arbitrators: The arbitration shall be conducted by a single arbitrator
appointed in accordance with the Swiss Rules of International Arbitration.

14.2.1.3.2.
Seat of Arbitration: The seat of arbitration shall be Switzerland.

14.2.1.3.3.
Conduct of Proceedings: The arbitration proceedings shall be conducted entirely
online via email communications and web conferences, unless the parties agree
otherwise in writing.

14.2.1.3.4.
Language:
The language of the arbitration shall be English.

14.2.1.3.5.
Confidentiality: The arbitration proceedings, including all Submissions,
evidence, and decisions, shall be kept strictly confidential by the parties and
the arbitrator.

14.3.
Allocation of Costs

The party initiating the arbitration
shall bear all costs and fees associated with the arbitration proceedings,
including but not limited to:

14.3.1.
Arbitrator Fees: The fees and expenses of the arbitrator.

14.3.2.
Administrative Fees: Fees charged by the  Swiss Rules of International
Arbitration.

14.3.3.
Other Costs: Any other costs incurred during the arbitration process.

The arbitrator may, at their
discretion, reallocate the costs of arbitration between the parties in the
final Arbitral Award. However, each party shall be responsible for its
own legal fees, consultant fees, expert fees, and other expenses incurred in
connection with the arbitration, regardless of the outcome of the proceedings.

14.4.
Class Action Waiver:

Users agree
that any disputes with the Platform Operator shall be resolved on an
individual basis and not as part of any class action or representative
proceeding.

14.5.
No Limitation of Provisional Relief

Nothing in this section shall be
construed as limiting the right of either party to seek provisional relief or Interim
Measures from a court of competent jurisdiction to preserve the status quo
or protect against imminent harm, pending the outcome of the arbitration.

14.6.
Jurisdiction

In the event that any claim is not
subject to arbitration under applicable law, such claim shall be submitted to
the exclusive jurisdiction of the London Court of International Arbitration
(LCIA).

14.7.
Survival of Dispute Resolution Provisions

The provisions of this section shall
survive the termination of these Terms and shall remain binding on the
parties with respect to any dispute arising from or related to the use of the Platform.

15. AMENDMENTS TO THE TERMS

The Platform Operator reserves
the right to amend, modify, update, or replace these Terms at any time
to reflect changes in business practices, legal or regulatory requirements,
technological advancements, or other relevant factors. Such amendments shall
become effective upon publication of the updated Terms through the
User Interface or another official communication channel designated by the Platform
Operator.

15.1.
Notification of Amendments

The Platform Operator will
notify Users of any material amendments to these Terms by posting
a Notice on the User Interface: A notification will be displayed
prominently on the Platform.

15.2.
User Responsibility to Stay Informed

It is the User’s responsibility
to regularly review the Terms to stay informed of any amendments. The
most current version of the Terms will always be accessible through a
link on the User Interface. Users acknowledge that by continuing
to access or use the Platform after the publication of amended Terms,
they agree to be bound by the updated Terms. If a User does not
agree with any amendment, they must:

15.2.1.
Immediately discontinue use of the Platform;
and

15.2.2.
Cease all interactions with the
Platform’s Smart Contracts.

Failure to cease use of the Platform
after the publication of amendments constitutes acceptance of the amended
Terms.

15.3.
No Retroactive Amendments

Amendments to these Terms shall
not apply retroactively. Any transactions conducted on the Platform prior
to the effective date of an amendment will be governed by the version of the Terms
in effect at the time the transaction was initiated.

15.4.
Severability of Amendments

If any amendment to these Terms is
found to be invalid, unlawful, or unenforceable by a court of competent
jurisdiction or through arbitration, the remaining provisions of these Terms
shall remain in full force and effect.

The Platform Operator will make reasonable efforts to replace any invalid or
unenforceable amendment with a valid provision that achieves the intended
purpose as closely as possible.

16. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

16.1.
Ownership:

16.1.1.
The Platform Operator retains
all intellectual property rights related to the Platform, including but
not limited to its design, content, software, trademarks, and underlying
technology. Except as expressly provided herein, no rights or licenses are
granted to Users.
This Section shall prevail and govern all intellectual property matters
across the Platform and its features, including Funding & Ideation,
Governance & Community, and Identity & Compliance.

16.1.2.
Users
may not copy, modify, distribute, sell, or lease any part of the Platform‘s
intellectual property without the express written permission of the Platform
Operator.

16.2.
License to Use:

16.2.1.
Subject to compliance with these Terms,
the Platform Operator grants Users a limited, non-exclusive,
non-transferable, revocable license to access and use the Platform,
including the intellectual property therein.

16.2.2.
This license does not grant Users
any rights to:

16.2.2.1.
Use the Platform for unauthorised purposes;

16.2.2.2.
Reverse-engineer, decompile, or
attempt to extract the source code of the Platform;

16.2.2.3.
Use the Platform in any
manner that infringes on the Platform Operator’s intellectual property
rights.

16.3.
User-Generated Content:

16.3.1.
Users
may upload, submit, or share content on the Platform, such as
reviews or comments. By doing so, Users grant the Platform Operator
a worldwide, non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, reproduce, and
distribute such content for the operation of the Platform.

16.3.2.
For the purposes of this Section, “User-Generated
Content” or “Submission” means any content, Proposal, idea, deliverable, code,
documentation, governance input, or data submitted by Users through any Platform
feature or initiative (as described in Section 7 Platform Features).

16.3.3.
All such Submissions shall be
governed exclusively by this Section and, where applicable, by the specific
conditions relating to the initiative under which they are submitted. In case
of conflict, this Section shall prevail unless specific terms expressly provide
otherwise.

16.3.4.
By submitting any Submission,
Users acknowledge and agree that:

16.3.4.1.
They irrevocably waive, to the
fullest extent permitted by law, any intellectual property or moral rights in
the Submission;

16.3.4.2.
Where such waiver is not legally
effective, they hereby assign all intellectual property rights in the Submission
to the Platform Operator on a worldwide, perpetual, royalty-free
basis, with full rights of sublicense; and

16.3.4.3.
All content
published on the Platform, including (but not limited to) proposals,
summaries, comments, and media, are deemed released under an open-source or
public domain license (e.g., CC0 or an equivalent permissive model), enabling
unrestricted use, modification, and redistribution by the Platform Operator,
its affiliates, and the community. Projects developed as a result (the code,
models, or IP they produce) may have their own chosen licenses.

16.3.4.4.
​​Content that Users
submit or publish on the Platform, including proposals, descriptions,
documentation, comments, media, or other materials, is considered community-facing
content. Unless otherwise specified, such content is deemed released under
an open-content license (for example, CC0 or another permissive model)
to enable review, collaboration, and transparency within the DEEP Funding
Ecosystem.

16.3.4.4.1.
This open-content licensing applies only
to materials displayed or shared through the Platform interface and does
not affect the intellectual property or licensing status of the projects
themselves.

16.3.4.4.2.
Exception for confidential
submissions: The Platform may, in the
future, support confidential or undisclosed submission processes (for example,
under DEEP Seed or similar initiatives) in which proposals are visible
only to designated reviewers or evaluators. In such cases, copyright and
related intellectual property rights shall remain with the proposer, unless
otherwise agreed in writing within the relevant initiative’s terms or funding
agreement.

16.3.4.4.3.
Proposers may define the license
terms governing their underlying project deliverables or outputs (for example,
open-source, dual-licensed, or closed-source models) within their proposal
documentation or subsequent grant or funding agreements. In the event of
inconsistency, the specific project or funding agreement shall prevail.

16.3.4.5.
The initiative-specific licensing
frameworks applicable to Funding & Ideation, Governance & Community,
and Identity & Compliance are integrated into Sections 17 to 20
(Initiative-Specific Rules) of these Terms and shall be interpreted in
accordance with this overarching intellectual property policy.

16.3.5.
Users
represent and warrant that they have the necessary rights to provide such content
and that it does not infringe on any third-party intellectual property rights.

16.3.6.
The Parties acknowledge that, under
the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works and the
Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS),
copyright and related rights subsist automatically in original works, including
but not limited to written ideas, Proposals,
software, and other creative outputs, without the need for formal registration.
Accordingly, Users expressly waive, to the fullest extent permitted by
law, any such rights (including moral rights) in their Submissions, and,
where waiver is not legally effective, hereby assign such rights to DEEP
Funding.

16.4.
Limitations and Conditions:

16.4.1.
While Submissions are made
available as open source, the following conditions apply:

16.4.1.1.
Attribution: The Platform Operator may, but is not obliged to,
attribute contributions to the submitting User.

16.4.1.2.
No Restrictions: Users may not assert ownership, demand royalties, or
restrict others from using Submissions made available on the Platform.

16.4.1.3.
No Liability: The Platform Operator accepts
no responsibility for third-party use of Submissions and disclaims all
liability arising from any reuse, modification, or distribution thereof.

16.5.
Interaction with Platform Features:

The
intellectual property framework established under this Section supersedes and
integrates the initiative-specific IP provisions described in Section 7 Platform
Features.

16.5.1.
For Funding & Ideation, and
Governance & Community, any waiver or assignment of IP in Proposals, ideas, or Submissions shall
be construed as effected pursuant to this Section.

16.5.2.
For Identity & Compliance tools,
Users retain ownership of their identity data and credentials but grant
the Platform Operator a limited license to use such data solely for the
purpose of providing and improving Platform services.

16.5.3.
In case of discrepancy between this
Section and any initiative-specific statement in Section Platform Features,
this Section shall prevail.

16.6.
Scope of public property
declaration:

16.6.1.
All Submissions made to the Platform
are considered contributions to a shared pool of knowledge and innovation for
the benefit of the community. By submitting content, the User
acknowledges that their contribution is intended to be open-source,
collaborative, and non-exclusive, and that they will not enforce any
intellectual property rights against the Platform Operator, its
affiliates, or any third party making use of the Submission.

16.7.
Reporting Infringements:

16.7.1.
If a User believes that their
intellectual property rights have been infringed upon by any content on
the Platform, they may submit a written notice to the Platform
Operator at the designated contact address. The notice must include:

16.7.1.1.
A detailed description of the
alleged infringement;

16.7.1.2.
Identification of the copyrighted
work or trademark claimed to have been infringed;

16.7.1.3.
Contact information of the
complaining party.

16.7.2.
The Platform Operator will
review such claims and take appropriate action as necessary, including content
removal and/or account suspension.

16.8.
Third-Party IP Compliance:

Users shall
ensure that their Submissions do not include any materials subject to
third-party rights (including proprietary datasets, code libraries, or
trademarks) unless they hold all necessary permissions or licenses to include
them under the open-source framework defined herein.

16.9.
Consequences of Violation:

16.9.1.
Any unauthorised
use of the Platform Operator’s intellectual property or violation of
this chapter may result in:

16.9.1.1.
Immediate termination of User
access to the Platform;

16.9.1.2.
Legal action to enforce intellectual
property rights;

16.9.1.3.
Compensation claims for damages
incurred by the Platform Operator.

16.10.
Survival:

The obligations and assignments
established under this Section survive the termination of the User’s access
to the Platform and remain binding with respect to all Submissions made
prior to termination.

17. FUNDING & IDEATION RULES

This Section governs the terms
applicable to participation in the Platform’s Funding and Ideation initiatives.

17.1.
Eligibility and Submission: Users may submit Proposals
or ideas that comply with applicable eligibility criteria and are aligned with
ecosystem objectives.

17.2.
Milestones and Disbursements: Grants are awarded conditionally and released in
milestone-based tranches. The Platform Operator or its delegated
committees may verify progress before disbursement.

17.3.
Grant Recipient Obligations: Grant Recipients must maintain transparency, provide
progress updates, and cooperate with audits or reviews. Funding may be
withheld, suspended, or reclaimed in the event of non-compliance or
misrepresentation.

17.4.
Clawback and Termination: The Platform
Operator reserves the right to terminate or reclaim Grants for
material breach of obligations, fraud, or regulatory non-compliance.

17.5.
Intellectual Property and Rewards: IP rights and reward treatment for all Submissions
are governed by Section 16 (Intellectual Property Rights).

18. GOVERNANCE & COMMUNITY
    RULES

This Section governs User participation
in governance processes and community engagement.

18.1.
Participation: Users may propose and vote within governance
mechanisms in proportion to their eligible tokens or roles.

18.2.
Conduct:
Users must respect community standards and refrain from defamatory,
illegal, or disruptive content.

18.3.
Community Content: All community-generated materials are governed by Section 16
(Intellectual Property Rights) and may be displayed, reproduced, or
redistributed within the ecosystem.

18.4.
Governance Outcomes: Governance and voting activities conducted through the Platform
are informational and advisory in nature. Results reflect the collective input
of community members and are implemented at the discretion of the Platform
Operator or relevant program administrators. Governance outcomes are not
currently executed or recorded on the blockchain, and
therefore have no automatic or technical binding effect.

18.5.
 

19. DEEP-LAB RULES

This Section governs participation
in DEEP-Lab initiatives, which provide an experimental environment for
developing, testing, and showcasing prototypes, tools, and concepts that
support the goals of the DEEP Funding Ecosystem.

19.1.
Eligibility and Participation: Participation in DEEP-Lab initiatives is open to eligible
teams, contributors, or partners as determined by the Platform Operator. Specific
eligibility requirements or participation guidelines may be published on the Platform
or communicated directly to selected participants.

19.2.
Submissions and Deliverables: Participants may develop and submit prototypes, code,
documentation, or other materials as part of DEEP-Lab projects. All submissions
must be original, non-infringing, and compliant with applicable laws and
community standards.

19.3.
Funding, Support, and Recognition: DEEP-Lab projects may receive technical or financial
support, mentorship, or visibility within the ecosystem. Such support is
discretionary and contingent upon available resources, alignment with ecosystem
objectives, and compliance with applicable agreements or milestones.

19.4.
Intellectual Property: Intellectual
property and licensing of DEEP-Lab outputs
are governed by Section 16 (Intellectual Property Rights), unless otherwise
specified in a separate agreement between the participants and the Platform
Operator.

19.5.
Liability: The
Platform Operator is not liable for internal team disputes, project
failures, or the use, modification, or distribution of outputs by third
parties. Participation in DEEP-Lab initiatives is voluntary and at the
participants’ own risk.

20. IDENTITY & COMPLIANCE RULES

This Section governs the use of the Platform’s
identity and compliance tools.

20.1.
User Responsibilities: Users remain solely responsible for the accuracy of
their identity information and compliance with legal and regulatory
requirements.

20.2.
Data Handling: The Platform Operator provides digital identity
tools on an “as-is” basis, without warranty of regulatory sufficiency.

20.3.
Liability:
The Platform Operator disclaims all liability for misuse, credential
fraud, or data breaches arising from the use of these tools.

20.4.
Intellectual Property: Ownership of identity credentials remains with the User,
subject to the limited license granted under Section 16 (Intellectual Property
Rights) for operational purposes.

21. TERMINATION AND SUSPENSION

21.1.
Termination by User:

21.1.1.
Users
may terminate their participation and access to the Platform at any time
by ceasing to use the services and, where applicable, deleting their account or
requesting deletion of their personal data in accordance with Section 24.
If a User has access to specific operational environments, such as the
back-office or Automated Milestone Payment System portal, they may also
terminate such access by discontinuing use of those systems and, if applicable,
disconnecting any linked blockchain wallet.
Termination does not relieve the User of any obligations incurred prior
to the termination date.

21.2.
Termination by Platform Operator:

21.2.1.
The Platform Operator may
suspend or terminate a User‘s access to the Platform without prior
notice if:

21.2.1.1.
The User violates these Terms;

21.2.1.2.
The User engages in
fraudulent or illegal activities;

21.2.1.3.
Required by applicable law or
regulatory authorities;

21.2.1.4.
The security, integrity, or
operation of the Platform is threatened.

21.3.
Effect of Termination:

21.3.1.
Upon termination, the User’s
access to all Platform services will be revoked. The User
acknowledges that any pending on-chain transactions initiated by the User
may fail, remaining the User’s responsibility with respect to Gas
Fees,  and that the Platform
Operator holds no liability for any losses incurred.

21.4.
Reinstatement:

21.4.1.
Users
whose accounts have been suspended or terminated may submit a written request
for reinstatement. The Platform Operator reserves the right to reinstate
access at its sole discretion and may impose conditions for reinstatement.

22. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

22.1.
Entire Agreement:

22.1.1.
These Terms constitute the
entire agreement between the User and the Platform Operator regarding
the use of the Platform. They supersede all prior or contemporaneous
communications, representations, or agreements, whether oral or written,
relating to the subject matter of these Terms.

No oral or written statements or
representations not expressly included in these Terms shall be binding
on either party.

22.2.
Assignment:

22.2.1.
The Platform Operator may
assign or transfer its rights and obligations under these Terms without
the prior consent of the User, including in connection with a merger,
acquisition, or sale of assets. Users may not assign or transfer their
rights or obligations under these Terms without the prior written
consent of the Platform Operator. Any attempted assignment or transfer
without such consent shall be void and of no effect.

22.3.
Notices

All notices or communications
required under these Terms must be delivered in writing to the Platform
Operator at the contact information provided on the User Interface or
through other official communication channels specified by the Platform
Operator.

Notices to Users may be
delivered via the User Interface, through notifications or updates
posted on the Platform.

Users are
responsible for regularly checking the User Interface for notices from
the Platform Operator.

22.4.
Survival:

22.4.1.
All provisions that by their nature
should survive termination of these Terms shall survive, including, but
not limited to, intellectual property rights, disclaimers, indemnity, and
limitations of liability.

22.5.
Force Majeure:

22.5.1.
The Platform Operator shall
not be liable for any failure or delay in performing its obligations under
these Terms due to events beyond its reasonable control, including but
not limited to natural disasters, acts of government, war, cyberattacks,
and technical failures.

22.6.
No Partnership or Agency:

22.6.1.
Nothing in these Terms shall
be construed to create a partnership, joint venture, or agency relationship
between the User and the Platform Operator. Each party acts as an
independent entity, and neither party has the authority to bind or obligate the
other in any manner.

22.7.
Survival of Provisions

The following provisions shall
survive the termination of these Terms and the User’s access to
the Platform:

●
Section 9: User Obligations and
Responsibilities

●
Section 10: User Acknowledgments

●
Section 11: Risk Disclosure

●
Section 12: Limitation of Liability

●
Section 13: Indemnification

●
Section 14: Governing Law and
Dispute Resolution

●
Section 16: Intellectual-Property
Rights

●
Section 18: Miscellaneous

These provisions shall remain
effective to the extent necessary to enforce rights and obligations that arose
prior to termination or to address ongoing responsibilities.

22.8.
Interpretation

The headings and section titles used
in these Terms are for convenience only and do not affect the
interpretation or meaning of the provisions. Any ambiguities or uncertainties
in the language of these Terms shall not be construed against the
drafter.

22.9.
 Language

These Terms are drafted in
the English language. If these Terms are translated into another
language, the English version shall prevail in the event of any discrepancies
or conflicts.

22.10.
No Third-Party Beneficiaries

These Terms are for the sole
benefit of the User and the Platform Operator. No third party
shall have any rights to enforce any provision of these Terms, except
where expressly stated otherwise.

23. USER PRIVACY AND DATA SECURITY

The protection of User data
and privacy is a fundamental principle of the Platform. This Section
provides an overview of how personal and transactional data are handled when
using the Platform. For a complete description of data processing
practices, security measures, and User rights, Users should refer
to the DEEP Funding Privacy Policy, available at https://deepfunding.ai/privacy-policy/ (the “Privacy Policy”). The Privacy Policy forms an
integral part of these Terms, and by using the Platform, Users
acknowledge that they have read and understood both this Section and the
Privacy Policy.
Data Collection and Use:

23.1.1.
The Platform Operator is
committed to protecting the privacy of its Users. By using the Platform,
Users acknowledge and consent to the collection and use of certain data,
including but not limited to:

23.1.1.1.
Blockchain wallet addresses;

23.1.1.2.
Transaction history and interactions
within the Platform;

23.1.1.3.
Aggregated usage data to improve Platform
functionality.

23.1.2.
All data collected will be handled
in compliance with applicable data protection laws and regulations.

23.2.
User Responsibilities:

23.2.1.
Users acknowledge
and agree that they are responsible for safeguarding their personal data and blockchain credentials. Users must:

23.2.1.1.
Use secure methods to store private
keys and recovery phrases;

23.2.1.2.
Avoid sharing sensitive information
with unauthorised parties;

23.2.1.3.
Regularly review their security
settings.

23.2.2.
The Platform Operator is not
responsible for any unauthorised access resulting
from the User’s failure to secure their personal information.

23.3.
Third-Party Services:

23.3.1.
The Platform may integrate
with third-party services that have their own privacy policies. Users acknowledge
and agree that the Platform Operator does not control and is not responsible
for the privacy practices of such third-party services. Users should
review third-party policies before engaging with them.

23.4.
Data Retention:

23.4.1.
The Platform Operator retains
collected data only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes outlined
in these Terms or as required by Applicable Laws. Data may be
deleted or anonymised after the retention period
expires.

23.5.
User Rights:

Considering the inherent
characteristics of blockchain technology,
particularly its immutability and decentralized nature, access, correction,
erasure, and portability of User data may not always be technically
feasible. However, where such actions can be reasonably implemented, the Platform
will take all appropriate steps to facilitate the exercise of these rights.
In general, the Platform processes User data in anonymised or pseudonymised form,
meaning it cannot directly identify an individual. Nonetheless, in specific
cases where the Platform collects or processes identifiable personal
data (such as for Know-Your-Customer (KYC) or
Anti-Money Laundering (AML) purposes), Users retain the right to
exercise the following rights, in accordance with applicable data protection
laws

23.5.1.
Users have the
following rights regarding their data, subject to Applicable Laws:[1] [2] 

23.5.1.1.
The right to access their personal
data collected by the Platform;

23.5.1.2.
The right to correct inaccurate or
incomplete information and to delete personal data that is no longer necessary
for the purposes for which it was collected;

23.5.1.3.
Users may manage or delete most of
their data directly through their account settings or by submitting a request
to the Platform Operator. Certain operational or legal data may be
retained as required by law or for legitimate administrative purposes;

23.5.1.4.
The right to withdraw consent for data
processing, where applicable.

23.5.2.
Requests to exercise these rights
should be submitted through official support channels provided by the Platform
Operator.

23.6.
Data Security Measures:

23.6.1.
The Platform Operator
implements industry-standard security measures to protect user data, including
encryption, secure storage solutions, and access controls. However, Users
acknowledge that no system is entirely immune to security breaches.

23.7.
Cross-Border Data Transfers:

23.7.1.
By using the Platform, Users
consent to their data being transferred and processed in jurisdictions that
may have different data protection standards than their home country. The Platform
Operator will take reasonable measures to ensure an adequate level of
protection for cross-border data transfers.