MEMBERSHIP AGREEMENT

Introduction

Welcome to the Venture Q community. This Membership Agreement (“Agreement”) sets forth the terms under which Venture Q provides access to its network, resources, and services. This Agreement aims to foster a productive relationship between Venture Q and you, our member, within the scope of professional growth and innovation.

Purpose

This Agreement defines the terms of engagement between Venture Q and its members, emphasizing the importance of clear expectations and mutual respect.

Scope

Detailed herein are the guidelines for membership eligibility, the structure of membership tiers, and the general code of conduct expected of all members.

Commitment

While Venture Q endeavours to provide valuable resources and opportunities for growth, members are encouraged to actively participate in and contribute to the community, recognizing that the success of each member contributes to the strength of the entire network.

By proceeding with membership, you acknowledge and agree to these terms, understanding that this Agreement does not guarantee specific outcomes but rather provides the framework for a collaborative and supportive membership experience.

Definitions

In this Membership Agreement, the following terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them below:

“Agreement” refers to this Membership Agreement, including any amendments or modifications made from time to time.

“Member” refers to any individual or entity that has been accepted into Venture Q’s membership program and has agreed to the terms outlined in this Agreement.

“Membership Program” refers to the structured tier system offered by Venture Q, providing various levels of access to resources, services, and support based on specific eligibility criteria.

“Venture Q” refers to [Legal Entity Name], its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, agents, and representatives.

“Services” encompasses all resources, programs, support, and any other services provided by Venture Q to Members under the Membership Program.

“Community Standards” refers to the code of conduct, policies, and ethical guidelines established by Venture Q, which Members are expected to adhere to as part of their membership.

“Intellectual Property” includes, but is not limited to, all inventions, designs, trademarks, copyrights, patents, trade secrets, and any other proprietary rights owned, used, or provided by Venture Q to Members.

“Confidential Information” means any non-public information disclosed by Venture Q to Members, or vice versa, that is designated as confidential or that reasonably should be understood to be confidential given the nature of the information and the circumstances of disclosure.

Minimum Eligibility for Membership

To ensure a foundational standard for all members and foster a cohesive community, Venture Q has established the following minimum eligibility criteria applicable across all membership tiers:

Employee or Founder Requirement

Applicants must have at least one full-time employee or founder actively involved in the operation of the organization.

 

Jurisdiction of Registration

The organization must be registered or in the process of being registered, with one or more of the following governments:

• Government of Ontario
• Government of Canada

 

Organization Type

The organization must be registered, or about to be registered, as one of the following types:

• A for-profit organization, such as a sole proprietorship, partnership, collective, corporation, or limited liability company.
• A non-profit organization, such as a charity, non-charitable organization, public institution, trade organization, or community group.

 

Operational Location

The organization must be operating within Ontario’s Halton region or one of the surrounding regions, with an address in one or more of the following regions:

• Guelph
• Halton
• Hamilton
• Niagara
• Peel
• Toronto
• Waterloo
• Wellington

 

Organizational Intent

Applicants must be looking to engage in at least one of the following activities within the Venture Q community:

• Requesting services or products.
• Offering services or products.

This baseline eligibility is designed to ensure that all Venture Q members are aligned with our mission to support and accelerate growth within the specified geographic and operational parameters. Meeting these minimum criteria qualifies businesses to explore the various membership tiers Venture Q offers, each with additional benefits and services tailored to further support their growth and success.

 

Membership Tiers and Eligibility

Venture Q is dedicated to fostering a dynamic and supportive environment for organizations at various stages of growth. Our membership is categorized into distinct tiers, each designed to meet the unique needs of our diverse member base. This section outlines the membership categories available at Venture Q and the criteria for eligibility in each.

General Membership

Open to all organizations, this tier offers basic access to Venture Q’s network and resources.

Additional eligibility criteria:

• No specific revenue or operational history is required.

 

Startup Membership

Tailored for emerging organizations seeking support in their growth journey, offering access to specialized resources and mentorship.

Additional eligibility criteria:

• The organization must be in the startup phase
• Less than 3 years in operation
• Annual revenue under $500,000

 

Established Membership

Designed for organizations that have demonstrated market success and are looking to further expand or diversify.

Additional eligibility criteria:

• More than 3 years in operation
• Annual revenue greater than $500,000

 

Equity Membership

For organizations interested in deeper collaboration, including potential equity exchanges for access to advanced resources and personalized guidance.

Additional eligibility criteria:

• Less than 3 years in operation
• Viable product or service
• Open to equity investment
• Annual revenue under $2,000,000

 

Growth Membership

Supports rapidly growing organizations with access to premium resources, strategic networking, and growth acceleration programs.

Additional eligibility criteria:

• More than 3 years in operation
• Demonstrating significant growth, typically at least 20% year-over-year
• Annual revenues between $1 million and $10 million.

 

Strategic Membership

Our highest tier offers bespoke support and strategic advantages to industry-leading organizations.

Additional eligibility criteria:

• Substantial market presence
• A track record of innovation and leadership

 

Members must meet the eligibility criteria for their chosen category at the time of application and maintain those standards to retain their membership status. Venture Q reserves the right to reassess member eligibility periodically to ensure alignment with the evolving needs and goals of our community.

 

Membership Benefits

For a detailed overview of the membership benefits available across our diverse tiers, please refer to the matrix below. This chart is intended to provide a snapshot of the services and opportunities Venture Q extends to its members. It’s important to note that the specifics of these offerings are subject to change based on evolving business needs and strategic direction.

Membership Fees and Payment Terms

Venture Q offers a range of membership tiers, each with specific benefits tailored to different stages of business development. Our fee structure accommodates both monthly and annual payment options, providing flexibility to our members.

Fee Schedules

Members can choose between monthly and annual payment schedules.

 

Fee Structure

Each membership tier has a designated monthly and annual fee, designed to accommodate the financial planning preferences of our members. For a limited time, a promotional introductory fee structure is available. See detailed fee information below.

Payment Methods

We accept various payment methods, including credit/debit cards and online payment platforms. Details and instructions for payment will be communicated upon membership registration and renewal.

 

Refunds

For annual payments, members are eligible for a full refund within the first 30 days of payment. Monthly payments are non-refundable.

Cancellation

Members may cancel their subscriptions at any time. For annual subscriptions, access to benefits will continue until the end of the paid year. Monthly subscribers can discontinue their membership at the end of any paid month.

 

Renewal

Members will receive a notification regarding their upcoming renewal and must confirm their renewal choice. Automatic renewals can be opted into at the member’s discretion.

 

Member Conduct and Responsibilities

This section delineates the conduct and responsibilities incumbent upon members of Venture Q, to ensure the integrity and productivity of our professional community are maintained.

 

Code of Conduct

Members shall exhibit professionalism, respectfulness, and ethical behaviour in all interactions within the Venture Q ecosystem. This encompasses all communications, collaborations, and transactions, aiming to foster a positive and inclusive environment.

 

Confidentiality and Intellectual Property (IP) Respect

Members are obliged to treat all information shared within the community with confidentiality, safeguarding any proprietary or sensitive data encountered. Additionally, respect for intellectual property rights is paramount; members must acknowledge and honour the ownership and contributions of ideas and creations within the community.

 

Contribution and Participation

Active engagement and contribution to the Venture Q community are expected of all members. This includes participating in events, offering mentorship, sharing insights, and collaborating on initiatives that advance our collective mission. Members are encouraged to contribute in ways that leverage their strengths and expertise for the benefit of the community.

Adherence to these guidelines ensures that Venture Q remains a vibrant, supportive, and enriching community for all members.

 

Term, Renewal, and Termination

This section outlines the conditions related to the duration, renewal, and termination of membership within Venture Q.

 

Membership Duration and Renewal Process

Memberships are based on an annual or monthly term, commencing on the date of sign-up. Members on monthly terms will benefit from the initial introductory consultation but will need to be members for at least 6 consecutive months before receiving other annual benefits. Members will be notified of impending renewal 30 days before the term ends, with instructions for renewal or modification of their membership tier.

 

Conditions for Termination by Venture Q

Membership may be terminated by Venture Q for reasons including, but not limited to, non-payment of dues, violation of the member conduct code, or other breaches of this agreement.

 

Voluntary Termination by Members

Members wishing to terminate their membership may do so by providing written notice to Venture Q. Voluntary termination becomes effective at the end of the current billing cycle, with no refunds for the remaining term.

 

General Provisions

This section details key policies fundamental to the membership framework within Venture Q, underscoring the necessity for members to review and comprehend the full scope of these terms as articulated in our governing documents.

 

Dispute Resolution

As initially outlined in the Terms and Conditions, this policy delineates the process for addressing and resolving member grievances. Members engaging in a Master Service Agreement with Venture Q will find a more extensive elaboration of these procedures. Members are advised to consult both documents for a thorough understanding.

 

Limitation of Liability

The Terms and Conditions introduce the limitations on Venture Q’s liability towards its members, which are further detailed within the Master Service Agreement for those who proceed with such an agreement. It is imperative for members to familiarize themselves with the stipulations within both documents to grasp the extent of Venture Q’s liability.

 

Privacy Policy

Venture Q places a high premium on the privacy and security of member data. The handling, usage, and protection of personal information are comprehensively detailed in our Privacy Policy. Members are encouraged to review this document to understand their rights and Venture Q’s obligations regarding data privacy.

For complete details and to ensure full comprehension of these policies, members are directed to access and review the specific documents provided by Venture Q.

 

Changes or Amendments

Venture Q reserves the right to modify or amend the Membership Agreement, including but not limited to fees, services, and terms of conduct, as deemed necessary for the organization’s growth and the benefit of its members. Members will be notified of any significant changes in advance through their registered contact information. Continued membership after such notifications will be considered as acceptance of the new terms. Members are encouraged to review the Membership Agreement periodically to stay informed of any updates.

 

Acceptance of Terms

By engaging with Venture Q’s services and completing the membership registration process, members acknowledge and agree to the terms outlined in this Membership Agreement. Acceptance may be further formalized through the signature or digital acknowledgment of a personalized membership agreement. This act confirms the member’s understanding and agreement to comply with all terms, policies, and conditions as stipulated, ensuring a mutual commitment to uphold the standards and objectives of the Venture Q community.