General Terms & Conditions

Please read these general terms and conditions (the “GTC“) carefully as they contain important information about your rights and obligations in connection with the Startup Board Academy. By registering to a Startup Board Academy program, training course or workshop, you agree to comply with, and be bound by, these GTC, as well any laws and regulations that may apply in connection with your registration in a Startup Board Academy program, training course or workshop.

Last Updated: July 2024

Your contracting party is BoardHub Sàrl (CHE-216.376.601), a limited liability company incorporated under the laws of Switzerland, with its registered office at Rue de la Serre 4, 2000 Neuchâtel, Switzerland (“BoardHub“).

1. Definitions

A “Session” is defined as a structured and comprehensive period of instruction that occurs within a single calendar day. Each Session is to last for a total of four hours, typically scheduled from 2:00pm to 6:00pm CE(S)T (Swiss time), inclusive of suitable intervals for rest and breaks. The term Session specifically applies to the basic training course, excluding workshops.

A “Cohort” is defined as a group of participants enrolled in a series of educational Sessions collectively spanning four afternoons. A Cohort is scheduled to partake in a structured, sequential learning program designed to achieve specific learning outcomes. A Cohort’s learning program is scheduled over four non-consecutive afternoons online or in-person.

A “Workshop” is an interactive and engaging online learning experience. Each Workshop is conducted in a single session lasting approximately 1.5 hours. The primary focus of a Workshop is to offer a concise, intensive and advanced educational opportunity where participants can interact directly with the facilitator and other attendees in real-time, despite the geographical distances. Workshops are typically structured around specific topics or skill sets, allowing for in-depth exploration and discussion within the allotted time.

2. Enrolment and Personal Participation

By registering to a Startup Board Academy program, training course or workshop, you are expressing your interest in joining the relevant sessions of the program, training course or workshop (4 Sessions in the basic training course) proposed by BoardHub and commit to participate actively to these sessions and the related activities, in particular team exchanges and exercises, and to constructively interact with the other participants and the trainers.

Enrolment in a program, training course, or workshop is strictly personal and cannot be transferred. If, as a registered participant, you are unable to attend any of the sessions, substitution by colleagues, co-founders, or any other person is not permitted.

The Startup Board Academy programs are provided in English and French, online and/or in-person across different cities of Switzerland.

Our programs operate under an acceptance policy that evaluates each applicant’s motivation for joining the program and their board path. This assessment is integral to ensuring that our programs align with the professional goals and board aspirations of our participants.

Applicants are required to demonstrate a clear understanding of how the program will benefit their board trajectory and articulate their motivation for participating. This process allows us to maintain a high level of relevance and impact for all attendees.

3. Payment Terms for Participation in the Board Academy

Upon acceptance into the program, training course, or workshop, participants are required to pay the relevant fees in advance to validate their registration. Full payment must be received to secure a participant’s place in the program, training course, or workshop. The registration will only be considered valid and complete once the required payment has been processed and confirmed. No registration shall be final until the full amount of the fees is paid to BoardHub. This upfront payment policy ensures that all participants are equally committed and facilitates the smooth administration of the program.

The fees for the program, training course, or workshop must be paid to BoardHub via bank transfer upon registration.

Payment is due within 10 days of registration confirmation. In cases of late registration, where the start date is less than 10 days away, payment is required immediately upon registration to secure the participant’s place in the program, training course, or workshop. This ensures all participants are fully registered and payments are settled before the program, training course, or workshop commences.

The Startup Board Academy is dedicated to providing a focused and enriching educational experience. As such, we aim to minimize administrative tasks and complexities associated with payment processing. It is the sole responsibility of the participant or their sponsoring entity to manage the advance payment requirement within the stipulated time frame.

3.1 Unemployed Participants

We are committed to facilitating access to the Startup Board Academy for unemployed participants. However, to minimise administrative overhead, it is the responsibility of the participants to ensure that their participation fee is paid in advance. We encourage unemployed participants seeking financial assistance or sponsorships to secure such support in a manner that allows them to meet our advance payment requirement. The Startup Board Academy and BoardHub will not enter into discussions with funding authorities or administrative bodies on behalf of participants. It is up to the participants to manage directly all related administrative tasks and communications.

3.2 Corporate Participants

For participants sponsored by their employers or large companies, we explicitly refrain from engaging in complex purchase order processes or invoicing arrangements. Payment must be made directly to BoardHub prior to participation by either:

• The sponsoring company, through a straightforward and immediate payment process; or
• The participants, who may then seek reimbursement from their employer according to the company’s own policies.

4. Cancellation Policy

• If you cancel your registration more than 90 calendar days before the start of the program, training course or workshop, the fees shall be reimbursed to you in full. If you cancel your registration between 60 (included) and 90 (included) calendar days before the start of the program, training course or workshop, 50% of the fees shall be reimbursed to you. If you cancel your registration less than 60 calendar days before the start of the program, training course or workshop, no refund shall occur.
• In certain circumstances or unforeseen events (e.g., Covid-19 pandemic), BoardHub may decide to change an in-person session to an online session or vice versa, in which case you shall be offered a full refund of the participation fees or the option to join any other training course.
• In the event of a program, training course or workshop cancellation by BoardHub, the full amount of the fees shall be refunded to you, unless you agree to join another program, training course or workshop.

BoardHub may, at any time and at its sole discretion, cancel or suspend a program, training course or workshop, change the location of the program, training course or workshop, replace the trainers, or amend the training course content.

5. Course Attendance Policy

As a participant, you are expected to:

• arrive to the training location / join the online sessions on time;
• be fully available during the training sessions and to take neither calls nor breaks, unless planned/proposed/authorised by the trainers;
• make sure to have a good internet connection and a well-functioning camera, in case of online sessions, so that you may participate actively; and
• not leave before the end of any training.

Attendance for the entire duration is essential to meet the criteria for certification (See attached Course Attendance Policy).

6. Commitment to Full Participation

We firmly believe in the value of immersive learning experiences and the irreplaceable benefits of in-person participation. Our courses are meticulously designed to promote active engagement, networking opportunities, and direct interaction with leading industry experts. To ensure that all participants derive the maximum benefit from our programs, the following attendance policies have been established:

(i) Full Session Attendance Requirement

To foster a cohesive learning environment and ensure the integrity of the educational experience, participants are required to attend the entire duration of each registered course session. Only those who attend a session in its entirety will be eligible to receive a certificate of completion. This policy underscores our commitment to delivering comprehensive educational experiences and the importance of continuous participation.

(ii) First Session Attendance

The initial session of any course is critical, laying the groundwork for the entire program and establishing the Cohort’s dynamics. As such, attendance at the first session is mandatory. Participants who fail to attend the first session will not be able to continue with the program. This ensures that all members of the Cohort have a shared foundation of understanding and are equally prepared for the learning journey ahead.

(iii) Consequences of Partial Attendance

We understand that unforeseen circumstances may occasionally prevent full attendance. However, consistent presence is crucial for the cohesive progress of the Cohort and the individual learning process. Participants who are not present for an entire session may face expedited removal from the program, depending on the circumstances and at the discretion of the program administrators. This measure is in place to maintain the quality and integrity of the learning experience for all participants.

(iv) Making the Most of Your Educational Journey

We encourage all participants to approach their learning journey with commitment and enthusiasm. The policies outlined above are designed to enhance the educational experience for everyone involved, ensuring that participants fully engage with the content, their peers, and the instructors. By adhering to these attendance requirements, participants demonstrate their dedication to their professional development and respect for the learning community.

7. Lateness Policy

In the realm of professional development and education, punctuality is not merely a virtue but a cornerstone of effective learning. Whether it is an online session or an in-person meetup, starting on time ensures that all participants can fully benefit from the structured learning experience without disruption. To uphold the quality and integrity of our sessions, we have established a clear policy regarding lateness.

Lateness, especially in a learning environment, can have several negative repercussions. For the individual, it means missing out on crucial introductory content that could be essential for understanding the rest of the session. For other participants, interruptions from latecomers can disrupt the flow of learning, affecting concentration and engagement. Moreover, it challenges the instructor’s ability to manage time effectively, potentially compromising the delivery of the planned curriculum.

7.1 Our Lateness policy

To ensure a respectful, efficient, and productive learning environment for all participants, the following policy on lateness has been implemented:

• Online Sessions: Participants are expected to join the session at least five minutes before the scheduled start time. This buffer allows for resolving any technical issues that might prevent timely participation. If a participant is more than 10 minutes late, they may be denied entry to the session to avoid disruption to the ongoing learning process.
• In-Person Sessions: Participants should arrive at the venue and be seated 10 minutes before the session begins. Late arrivals, defined as those occurring more than 10 minutes after the scheduled start time, may result in exclusion from the session. This policy is in place to minimise interruptions and to respect the learning time of all participants.

7.2 Consequences of Lateness

Repeated instances of lateness may lead to further action, including but not limited to:

• a review of the participant’s commitment to the program;
• a discussion with program administrators to address the root causes of lateness and to find solutions; and/or
• In severe cases, repeated lateness may lead to exclusion from future sessions or programs, depending on the circumstances.

8. Retake Policy 

8.1 Eligibility for Course Retake

In recognition of the importance of full participation in our educational programs, we have established a retake policy that allows for the possibility of retaking a missed session under specific conditions.

A participant may be eligible to retake a missed session only if the absence is due to a case of force majeure or if prior agreement for the absence has been obtained from the program management. It is the participant’s responsibility to provide sufficient documentation or explanation to substantiate the claim of force majeure.

If a no-show occurs without prior notification to the course management and is not due to a case of force majeure, this may result in exclusion from the program. No retake will be possible in this case.

8.2 Retake Format and Timing

Eligible participants may retake the missed session exclusively in an online format for English-speaking sessions; for French-speaking sessions, the retake will be organized in person as there are no online sessions available. This will be discussed and arranged based on the geography of the participants. Retakes must be completed within the next 12 months from the original session date, subject to the availability of the session in the program schedule. This ensures that retakes are conducted within a relevant timeframe, allowing participants to stay aligned with their learning objectives.

8.3 Administrative Charges for Retake

In instances where a participant’s absence does not qualify as a case of force majeure and no prior agreement with the program management has been made, the participant may still request a retake of the missed session. However, such retakes will incur an administrative charge of CHF 250.00. This fee covers the administrative costs associated with facilitating the retake process and is payable before the retake session is scheduled.

8.4 Procedure for Requesting a Retake

Participants wishing to retake a missed session must submit a formal request to the program management, including any relevant documentation of the force majeure situation or details of the prior agreement. The program management will review the request and notify the participant of the decision and further instructions for the retake process. 

9. Educational Certificate Eligibility

Every participant who completes the full Sessions of the Startup Board Academy basic training course (4 Sessions) shall receive by email a certificate confirming his/her attendance.

A hard paper copy of the certificate can be ordered against payment of an additional fee of CHF 10.- (excl. VAT) (it being specified that BoardHub shall not be held responsible for any postal services issues which might delay the delivery of your certificate or in case of loss of mail).

Eligibility for receiving the certificate from the Startup Board Academy is contingent upon a participant’s full engagement and commitment to the program’s requirements. Participants are obligated to complete the entirety of the program, ensuring punctual arrival for each Session, remaining present until the Session concludes, and contributing actively during the Sessions.

This active participation policy underscores:

• the importance of a comprehensive understanding and engagement with the course material. Failure to adhere to these expectations may result in the course management exercising its discretionary power to refuse to issue a certificate; and
• our commitment to maintaining high standards of excellence and engagement, ensuring that the certificate reflects meaningful achievement and participation.

10. Intellectual Property – Use of Training Materials

You shall not be granted any right, title or interest in and to (i) the training materials provided to you in relation with a program, training course or workshop, (ii) trademarks, rights, logos and (iii) other elements of Startup Board Academy and BoardHub identities or that of any other third party which may participate in relation to the program, training course or workshop.

All educational contents and media in any form whatsoever (paper, electronic, digital, verbal or other) used by BoardHub for training shall remain the exclusive property of BoardHub. Therefore, they cannot be used outside a Startup Board Academy program, converted, transferred or reproduced without BoardHub’s express prior written consent. Any reproduction, representation, modification, publication, transfer, misrepresentation, in full or in part, of the contents of the training courses is strictly forbidden, and this whatever the process and medium used, other than with BoardHub’s express prior written consent.

11. Privacy Policy

By registering to a Startup Board Academy program, training course or workshop, you accept that your personal data (contact information, statistics on training courses attended, payment details, etc.) may be collected and handled by BoardHub.

Your personal data shall be used for internal use, as well as internal communication and organisational purposes. In this respect, your personal data may be communicated to official partners of the Startup Board Academy, insofar as is necessary for the completion of the duties entrusted to them in relation with the programs, training courses or workshops, as well as other participants.

We may also transmit your data to third parties, but only if the law or a judicial or administrative authority so requires in order to protect our rights or our interests.

You have the right to be informed of the personal information collected and held by BoardHub about you. You also have the right to update, rectify and delete personal information about you and to oppose the handling of your personal data, subject to a legitimate reason.

For additional details regarding the privacy policy, please consult the complete privacy policy available here.

12. Exclusion of Liability

Subject to the limitations of the law, BoardHub accepts no liability or responsibility. This exclusion of liability includes, without limitation, all liabilities of whatever nature, scope or origin, damages and/or losses (including, but not limited to, all indirect, special, consecutive, exemplary or punitive damages, interests, loss of profits, loss of income, loss of data, or other costs and expenses related to litigation or arbitration including attorney fees) in connection with any Startup Board Academy program, training course or workshop. All liability for auxiliaries is excluded.

You hereby agree to release BoardHub and its partners, employees, officers, agents and representatives from any and all liability and to hold BoardHub and its partners, employees, officers, agents and representatives harmless from and against any damages, claims or suits in relation with your registration and/or attendance to the Startup Board Academy program, training course or workshop.

13. Amendments to GTC

BoardHub reserves the right to amend these GTC at any time. If you are a registered user, you shall be informed where necessary by email of any new versions of these GTC. New versions of these GTC shall also be made available on the Startup Board Academy website. You are responsible for regularly checking these GTC and for keeping yourself up to date regarding any amendments. Unless you notify BoardHub in writing of your non acceptance of the amendments to these GTC for valid reasons, the amended GTC shall be deemed accepted by you.

14. Applicable Law and Jurisdiction

These GTC shall be governed by and constructed exclusively in accordance with the substantive laws of Switzerland, without regard to conflict of laws principles thereof.

Any dispute, controversy or claim arising out of or in connection with your registration or participation in a Startup Board Academy program, training courses or workshop, and/or these GTC, shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of Neuchâtel/NE, Switzerland, subject to appeal to the Swiss Supreme Court.