Expop High School Entrepreneurship Challenge & Platform Terms and Conditions
Expop High School Entrepreneurship Challenge & Platform Terms and Conditions
Last Updated: June 3, 2025
These Terms and Conditions (the "Terms") govern participation in Expop’s Entrepreneurship Challenge (the "Challenge") organized by Ascendance US Inc (known as “Expop”). By registering for or participating in the Challenge, you (and your parent or legal guardian if you are under 18) agree to be bound by all the terms and provisions below, which shall be legally binding and equivalent to a signed contract. If you do not agree, you may not participate in the Challenge. These Terms incorporate Expop’s Privacy Policy and any additional guidelines we provide. Expop reserves the right to update or modify these Terms and the services offered without prior notice; it is your responsibility to review these Terms periodically for changes. Continued participation after any modifications constitutes acceptance of the revised Terms.
1. Eligibility
1.1 Age Requirement: The Challenge is open only to individuals 13 years of age or older. Participants must be at least 13 due to legal requirements (e.g. COPPA) and for the safety of minors. No person under age 13 may register or participate. If you are under the minimum age, do not use or provide any information to Expop, as we do not knowingly collect personal data from children under 13.
1.2 Minors (Under 18): Participants under the age of majority (under 18 in most jurisdictions) must have a parent or legal guardian’s consent to register and participate. By allowing a minor to participate, the parent/guardian is agreeing to these Terms on the minor’s behalf. Expop reserves the right to request written parental consent for any participant under 18. Some jurisdictions require stricter age verification and parental consent for online activities by minors (for example, certain U.S. states require digital services to verify age and obtain parental consent for users under 18). We adhere to all such legal requirements.
1.3 International Participants: The Challenge is open to eligible participants worldwide. However, prizes involving travel will only cover travel within the mainland United States. If you reside outside the continental U.S. and win a travel-related prize, Expop.io will cover airfare or transportation only from a mainland U.S. domestic airport or location; you are responsible for all travel to and from the U.S., including obtaining any necessary visas or travel documents. Expop will not assist with visa applications or international travel arrangements, and failure to obtain necessary documents or permissions may result in forfeiture of the travel prize. No alternative prize or compensation will be provided for such forfeiture.
1.4 Ineligibility: Expop staff, judges, and any individuals involved in organizing the Challenge are not eligible to compete. The Challenge is void where prohibited by law. Each participant is responsible for ensuring that their participation does not violate any applicable laws or school/employer policies. Expop may disqualify any entrant who does not meet the eligibility requirements or who has provided false information.
1.5 Parental Responsibility: For participants under 18, the parent/guardian must review these Terms and ensure the participant’s compliance. By permitting a minor to participate, the parent/guardian acknowledges that they have read and accepted these Terms and understands the minor’s activities in the Challenge. Parents/guardians may be required to sign additional consent or liability waiver forms as a condition of the minor’s participation, in compliance with U.S. federal and state youth participation laws (e.g., COPPA for online data collection and any applicable state minor consent laws).
2. Code of Conduct
All participants are expected to maintain the highest standards of integrity and behavior throughout the Challenge, both online and during any in-person events. By joining the Challenge, you agree to conduct yourself in a manner that is respectful, lawful, and in keeping with the spirit of learning and entrepreneurship. This Code of Conduct applies to all Challenge-related interactions, including virtual meetings, workshops, webinars, forums, and any in-person finals or events.
2.1 Online Conduct: When participating in Expop’s online platforms or virtual sessions, you agree to the following rules of conduct:
Respect and Courtesy: Treat all fellow participants, mentors, judges, and staff with courtesy and respect. Refrain from using inappropriate or profane language, and avoid any behavior or language that might bring discredit upon yourself, other participants, or the Challenge. Harassment, bullying, hate speech, abusive or derogatory remarks, and personal attacks are strictly prohibited. This includes verbal, written, and electronic communications.
Academic and Competition Integrity: Compete honestly and fairly. Do not engage in cheating, plagiarism, or any form of misrepresentation of your work. All submissions must be your team’s original work (except where the use of third-party materials is expressly allowed with proper attribution). No sabotage or interference with other teams’ projects is allowed. You must abide by any honor code or guidelines provided for the competition (e.g., rules on research, collaboration, etc.). Participants must ensure their work is original and does not infringe any third-party intellectual property rights.
Legal and Policy Compliance: Follow all applicable laws and regulations during your participation. Do not upload or share anything illegal, fraudulent, threatening, or discriminatory, or anything that violates these Terms or any other policies applicable to the Challenge. This includes avoiding the sharing of pirated software, malware, or any content that you do not have the right to use. You also agree not to attempt to disrupt or hack the platform, introduce viruses or malicious code, or do anything that undermines the security or proper functioning of expop services.
Responsible Online Behavior: Do not spam, phish, or engage in any unwanted solicitation or advertising to other participants. Maintain a professional and educational environment – conduct not conducive to a constructive learning atmosphere (such as persistent disruptions, off-topic ranting, or associating Challenge activities with unrelated individuals/groups) is not allowed. If you participate in any Expop online forums or social media groups, adhere to the posted rules of those communities as well.
Safety and Privacy: Do not share personal information of others without consent. Do not record or take screenshots of online sessions or communications without permission. If the Challenge provides a collaborative online space, use it only for Challenge-related purposes. Report any behavior that violates this Code of Conduct to Expop staff.
2.2 In-Person Conduct: If the Challenge involves any in-person events (such as a finals competition, workshops, or travel as a prize), the following rules apply at all venues (hotels, conference centers, etc.):
Adherence to Law and Rules: Obey all local, state, and federal laws during travel and attendance. Follow all rules provided by Expop and any instructions from chaperones or event staff. Do not engage in any conduct that endangers yourself or others. Activities like running in event spaces, climbing on furniture, or any risky behavior are prohibited as they can cause accidents.
No Alcohol, Drugs, or Prohibited Items: The use, possession, or distribution of alcohol (for minors or on event premises), tobacco, vaping devices, illegal drugs, or any controlled substances is strictly forbidden during any Challenge activity or event. Likewise, no weapons or dangerous items of any kind are allowed. Violations will result in immediate removal from the event and potential disqualification.
Curfew and Supervision: If a curfew or specific lights-out time is announced (for overnight events), participants must observe it and remain in their assigned accommodations during curfew hours. Participants are expected to inform and, if required, stay in communication with their advisor, chaperone, or guardian about their whereabouts at all times during the event. Wandering off from official activities without permission is not allowed.
Property and Venue Respect: Treat all venues, hotels, and facilities with respect. Do not deface or damage property. You will be financially responsible for any damage you cause to property or facilities. Keep noise to reasonable levels, especially during nighttime hours, and respect other guests and teams. All trash must be disposed of properly; maintain the cleanliness of event spaces.
Dress Code and Decorum: Follow any dress code provided for the event (e.g., business casual for presentations, specific attire for ceremonies). Do not wear attire that is overly revealing or contains offensive language or symbols. Behavior should be professional; refrain from public displays of aggression or inappropriate intimacy. Remember you are representing yourself, your school, and Expop – professional conduct is expected at all times.
No Harassment or Hazing: As with online conduct, any form of harassment, hazing, bullying or unwanted physical contact is strictly prohibited in person. Show respect to all attendees, including competitors from other teams, judges, mentors, and event staff. Any incidents of harassment or rule violations should be reported to Challenge staff immediately so appropriate action can be taken.
2.3 Enforcement and Consequences: All participants are accountable for their behavior. Expop staff (and designated chaperones or judges) reserve the right to enforce this Code of Conduct. Violations may result in disciplinary action, including immediate removal from a workshop or event, disqualification from the Challenge, forfeiture of prizes, and/or suspension or termination of your Expop account or access, without refund of any fees. In serious cases, the participant may be sent home from an event at their own expense and their school or guardians notified. The entire team of a participant who grossly violates the rules may also face disqualification or other penalties. Expop determination on conduct violations is final. We may also involve law enforcement if any laws are broken.
By participating, you agree to uphold this Code of Conduct and understand that these standards are in place to ensure a safe, fair, and enjoyable experience for everyone involved in the Challeng
2. Code of Conduct
All participants are expected to maintain the highest standards of integrity and behavior throughout the Challenge, both online and during any in-person events. By joining the Challenge, you agree to conduct yourself in a manner that is respectful, lawful, and in keeping with the spirit of learning and entrepreneurship. This Code of Conduct applies to all Challenge-related interactions, including virtual meetings, workshops, webinars, forums, and any in-person finals or events.
2.1 Online Conduct: When participating in Expop’s online platforms or virtual sessions, you agree to the following rules of conduct:
Respect and Courtesy: Treat all fellow participants, mentors, judges, and staff with courtesy and respect. Refrain from using inappropriate or profane language, and avoid any behavior or language that might bring discredit upon yourself, other participants, or the Challenge. Harassment, bullying, hate speech, abusive or derogatory remarks, and personal attacks are strictly prohibited. This includes verbal, written, and electronic communications.
Academic and Competition Integrity: Compete honestly and fairly. Do not engage in cheating, plagiarism, or any form of misrepresentation of your work. All submissions must be your team’s original work (except where the use of third-party materials is expressly allowed with proper attribution). No sabotage or interference with other teams’ projects is allowed. You must abide by any honor code or guidelines provided for the competition (e.g., rules on research, collaboration, etc.). Participants must ensure their work is original and does not infringe any third-party intellectual property rights.
Legal and Policy Compliance: Follow all applicable laws and regulations during your participation. Do not upload or share anything illegal, fraudulent, threatening, or discriminatory, or anything that violates these Terms or any other policies applicable to the Challenge. This includes avoiding the sharing of pirated software, malware, or any content that you do not have the right to use. You also agree not to attempt to disrupt or hack the platform, introduce viruses or malicious code, or do anything that undermines the security or proper functioning of expop services.
Responsible Online Behavior: Do not spam, phish, or engage in any unwanted solicitation or advertising to other participants. Maintain a professional and educational environment – conduct not conducive to a constructive learning atmosphere (such as persistent disruptions, off-topic ranting, or associating Challenge activities with unrelated individuals/groups) is not allowed. If you participate in any Expop online forums or social media groups, adhere to the posted rules of those communities as well.
Safety and Privacy: Do not share personal information of others without consent. Do not record or take screenshots of online sessions or communications without permission. If the Challenge provides a collaborative online space, use it only for Challenge-related purposes. Report any behavior that violates this Code of Conduct to Expop staff.
2.2 In-Person Conduct: If the Challenge involves any in-person events (such as a finals competition, workshops, or travel as a prize), the following rules apply at all venues (hotels, conference centers, etc.):
Adherence to Law and Rules: Obey all local, state, and federal laws during travel and attendance. Follow all rules provided by Expop and any instructions from chaperones or event staff. Do not engage in any conduct that endangers yourself or others. Activities like running in event spaces, climbing on furniture, or any risky behavior are prohibited as they can cause accidents.
No Alcohol, Drugs, or Prohibited Items: The use, possession, or distribution of alcohol (for minors or on event premises), tobacco, vaping devices, illegal drugs, or any controlled substances is strictly forbidden during any Challenge activity or event. Likewise, no weapons or dangerous items of any kind are allowed. Violations will result in immediate removal from the event and potential disqualification.
Curfew and Supervision: If a curfew or specific lights-out time is announced (for overnight events), participants must observe it and remain in their assigned accommodations during curfew hours. Participants are expected to inform and, if required, stay in communication with their advisor, chaperone, or guardian about their whereabouts at all times during the event. Wandering off from official activities without permission is not allowed.
Property and Venue Respect: Treat all venues, hotels, and facilities with respect. Do not deface or damage property. You will be financially responsible for any damage you cause to property or facilities. Keep noise to reasonable levels, especially during nighttime hours, and respect other guests and teams. All trash must be disposed of properly; maintain the cleanliness of event spaces.
Dress Code and Decorum: Follow any dress code provided for the event (e.g., business casual for presentations, specific attire for ceremonies). Do not wear attire that is overly revealing or contains offensive language or symbols. Behavior should be professional; refrain from public displays of aggression or inappropriate intimacy. Remember you are representing yourself, your school, and Expop – professional conduct is expected at all times.
No Harassment or Hazing: As with online conduct, any form of harassment, hazing, bullying or unwanted physical contact is strictly prohibited in person. Show respect to all attendees, including competitors from other teams, judges, mentors, and event staff. Any incidents of harassment or rule violations should be reported to Challenge staff immediately so appropriate action can be taken.
2.3 Enforcement and Consequences: All participants are accountable for their behavior. Expop staff (and designated chaperones or judges) reserve the right to enforce this Code of Conduct. Violations may result in disciplinary action, including immediate removal from a workshop or event, disqualification from the Challenge, forfeiture of prizes, and/or suspension or termination of your Expop account or access, without refund of any fees. In serious cases, the participant may be sent home from an event at their own expense and their school or guardians notified. The entire team of a participant who grossly violates the rules may also face disqualification or other penalties. Expop determination on conduct violations is final. We may also involve law enforcement if any laws are broken.
By participating, you agree to uphold this Code of Conduct and understand that these standards are in place to ensure a safe, fair, and enjoyable experience for everyone involved in the Challeng
3. Organizer and Judge Decisions
3.1 All decisions regarding the Challenge made by Expop organizers and the judging panel are final and binding. This includes decisions on winners, interpretation of judging criteria, rule enforcement, disqualifications, and any other aspect of the competition’s operation. Participants acknowledge and agree that:
Judging Criteria: The criteria for evaluating entries (such as business plan submissions, pitches, etc.) will be established by Expop and may involve subjective assessments. By entering the Challenge, you accept the subjective nature of judging and waive any claim against the staff or judges’ decisions.
No Appeals: No appeals, reconsideration, or challenges to results will be permitted. Participants shall not contact judges directly regarding judging decisions, and any attempt to do so may result in disqualification. Expop is not obligated to provide feedback or reasoning for its decisions beyond announcing the points awarded where relevant and the winners.
Rule Interpretation: Expop has sole discretion in interpreting these Terms and any Challenge rules or guidelines. In the event of any ambiguity or dispute regarding the rules, Expop’s interpretation shall govern and its decisions will be final. Any questions or disputes about the construction or application of the rules will be resolved by expop.io, and such resolution will be binding on all participants.
Disqualification Authority: Expop reserves the right to disqualify any individual participant or team that violates these Terms, the Code of Conduct, or any competition rules, or that behaves in a manner unsportsmanlike or disruptive to the Challenge. Such disqualification may occur at any time, and Expop is not required to provide advance notice or an explanation to the disqualified party. The organizers’ decisions in respect to any disqualification are final and binding, and Expop is not liable for any costs or damages resulting from disqualifications.
Binding Nature: By participating, you agree to abide by all decisions of expop.io and the judges, and you release and hold harmless Expop and its judges from any claims or liability relating to those decisions.
In summary, all participants accept that the organizers’ and judges’ determinations are conclusive, and Expop’s decisions will govern in every situation arising in relation to the Challenge.
3. Organizer and Judge Decisions
3.1 All decisions regarding the Challenge made by Expop organizers and the judging panel are final and binding. This includes decisions on winners, interpretation of judging criteria, rule enforcement, disqualifications, and any other aspect of the competition’s operation. Participants acknowledge and agree that:
Judging Criteria: The criteria for evaluating entries (such as business plan submissions, pitches, etc.) will be established by Expop and may involve subjective assessments. By entering the Challenge, you accept the subjective nature of judging and waive any claim against the staff or judges’ decisions.
No Appeals: No appeals, reconsideration, or challenges to results will be permitted. Participants shall not contact judges directly regarding judging decisions, and any attempt to do so may result in disqualification. Expop is not obligated to provide feedback or reasoning for its decisions beyond announcing the points awarded where relevant and the winners.
Rule Interpretation: Expop has sole discretion in interpreting these Terms and any Challenge rules or guidelines. In the event of any ambiguity or dispute regarding the rules, Expop’s interpretation shall govern and its decisions will be final. Any questions or disputes about the construction or application of the rules will be resolved by expop.io, and such resolution will be binding on all participants.
Disqualification Authority: Expop reserves the right to disqualify any individual participant or team that violates these Terms, the Code of Conduct, or any competition rules, or that behaves in a manner unsportsmanlike or disruptive to the Challenge. Such disqualification may occur at any time, and Expop is not required to provide advance notice or an explanation to the disqualified party. The organizers’ decisions in respect to any disqualification are final and binding, and Expop is not liable for any costs or damages resulting from disqualifications.
Binding Nature: By participating, you agree to abide by all decisions of expop.io and the judges, and you release and hold harmless Expop and its judges from any claims or liability relating to those decisions.
In summary, all participants accept that the organizers’ and judges’ determinations are conclusive, and Expop’s decisions will govern in every situation arising in relation to the Challenge.
4. Program Modifications and Cancellations
4.1 Expop reserves the right to change, modify, or cancel any aspect of the Challenge at any time at its discretion. This includes (but is not limited to) changes to the schedule, curriculum, event lineup, speakers, venues, content of sessions, rules, prize structure, or even cancellation of the Challenge or any of its events. All offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice. Participants (and their guardians) acknowledge and accept that:
Schedule and Content Changes: The timing and content of webinars, workshops, mentorship sessions, and other program elements may be adjusted. For example, specific session topics, guest speakers, or activities might be rescheduled or substituted. We will endeavor to communicate significant changes to registered participants in a timely manner (via email or our platform), but sessions and agendas may be cancelled or changed with little or no advance notice due to availability or other considerations. Participants should be flexible and understand that any announced schedule or curriculum is not guaranteed.
Venue or Format Changes: If unforeseen circumstances arise (such as venue issues, public health concerns, or other emergencies), Expop may change an in-person event to a virtual format or vice versa, or move the location of an event. We may also adjust the format of the competition (for instance, altering an in-person pitch to an online video submission round) if necessary. These changes can be made at Expop’s sole discretion to ensure the Challenge can be completed safely and fairly.
Event Cancellation: Expop may cancel or terminate the Challenge or any event (for example, the final pitch competition) at its discretion, including for reasons such as insufficient participation, technical problems, pandemic, natural disaster, war, or any other situation that interferes with the Challenge’s operation or integrity. If the Challenge is canceled prior to its conclusion, Expop will notify participants and may, at its discretion, determine winners from completed portions or cancel the prizes. In the event of cancellation, Expop will not be liable for compensation or reimbursement of any expenses incurred by participants, and no further obligations shall be imposed on Expop (aside from refunding any portion of entry fees for canceled events, if deemed appropriate at Expop’s sole discretion).
No Guarantee of Continuity: Participation in the Challenge is at your own risk with the understanding that the program content is provided "as is" and may not always be available or uninterrupted. Expop does not guarantee that any particular session or activity will occur as originally planned. We strive to deliver a high-quality experience, but any information provided is for educational purposes and not guaranteed to be accurate, up-to-date, or fit for any particular purpose. Any reliance on the content or schedule is at your own risk.
Rule Updates: Official rules and guidelines for the Challenge may be updated or clarified by Expop at any point, including during the Challenge, in order to address ambiguities or ensure fairness. Any such modifications will be posted on the Expop website or communicated to participants. It is the participants’ responsibility to stay informed of any updates. Continued participation after a rule change constitutes acceptance of the new rules.
Expop will make reasonable efforts to ensure a rewarding Challenge experience, but we reserve the right to modify or terminate events as needed to address circumstances. Participants agree that Expop shall not be held liable for any changes or cancellations and understand that flexibility is a condition of participation.
4. Program Modifications and Cancellations
4.1 Expop reserves the right to change, modify, or cancel any aspect of the Challenge at any time at its discretion. This includes (but is not limited to) changes to the schedule, curriculum, event lineup, speakers, venues, content of sessions, rules, prize structure, or even cancellation of the Challenge or any of its events. All offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice. Participants (and their guardians) acknowledge and accept that:
Schedule and Content Changes: The timing and content of webinars, workshops, mentorship sessions, and other program elements may be adjusted. For example, specific session topics, guest speakers, or activities might be rescheduled or substituted. We will endeavor to communicate significant changes to registered participants in a timely manner (via email or our platform), but sessions and agendas may be cancelled or changed with little or no advance notice due to availability or other considerations. Participants should be flexible and understand that any announced schedule or curriculum is not guaranteed.
Venue or Format Changes: If unforeseen circumstances arise (such as venue issues, public health concerns, or other emergencies), Expop may change an in-person event to a virtual format or vice versa, or move the location of an event. We may also adjust the format of the competition (for instance, altering an in-person pitch to an online video submission round) if necessary. These changes can be made at Expop’s sole discretion to ensure the Challenge can be completed safely and fairly.
Event Cancellation: Expop may cancel or terminate the Challenge or any event (for example, the final pitch competition) at its discretion, including for reasons such as insufficient participation, technical problems, pandemic, natural disaster, war, or any other situation that interferes with the Challenge’s operation or integrity. If the Challenge is canceled prior to its conclusion, Expop will notify participants and may, at its discretion, determine winners from completed portions or cancel the prizes. In the event of cancellation, Expop will not be liable for compensation or reimbursement of any expenses incurred by participants, and no further obligations shall be imposed on Expop (aside from refunding any portion of entry fees for canceled events, if deemed appropriate at Expop’s sole discretion).
No Guarantee of Continuity: Participation in the Challenge is at your own risk with the understanding that the program content is provided "as is" and may not always be available or uninterrupted. Expop does not guarantee that any particular session or activity will occur as originally planned. We strive to deliver a high-quality experience, but any information provided is for educational purposes and not guaranteed to be accurate, up-to-date, or fit for any particular purpose. Any reliance on the content or schedule is at your own risk.
Rule Updates: Official rules and guidelines for the Challenge may be updated or clarified by Expop at any point, including during the Challenge, in order to address ambiguities or ensure fairness. Any such modifications will be posted on the Expop website or communicated to participants. It is the participants’ responsibility to stay informed of any updates. Continued participation after a rule change constitutes acceptance of the new rules.
Expop will make reasonable efforts to ensure a rewarding Challenge experience, but we reserve the right to modify or terminate events as needed to address circumstances. Participants agree that Expop shall not be held liable for any changes or cancellations and understand that flexibility is a condition of participation.
5. Disclaimers of Outcomes and No Guarantee
5.1 No Guarantees of Results or Success: Expop provides the Challenge and its educational content to help students learn about entrepreneurship, innovation, and business skills. However, we make absolutely no guarantee or promise that participating in or completing the Challenge will lead to any particular outcome or success in any area of your life. By participating, you acknowledge and agree to the following disclaimers:
No Guaranteed Learning or Skill Improvement: While we believe the Challenge offers valuable learning opportunities, Expop does not warrant or guarantee that you will learn any specific skill, achieve any particular level of competence, or improve academically or otherwise by virtue of your participation. The program is provided on an "as is" basis without any warranties of quality or effectiveness, and individual results will vary. Your success in mastering concepts or skills depends on many factors outside our control (such as your own effort, prior knowledge, and aptitude).
No Admission or Academic Advantage: Participation in the Challenge does not guarantee admission to any college or university, nor does it confer any accredited educational credits. Expop is not affiliated with college admissions processes, and colleges will not treat participation as an endorsement or special qualification. Any suggestion that Challenge experience could aid in admissions is purely speculative and not promised by Expop.
No Business Success or Funding: The Challenge aims to inspire entrepreneurial thinking, but we do not promise that you will successfully start a business, secure funding, or earn profits as a result of this program. Any mentorship or advice provided during the Challenge is general in nature and does not come with any guarantee of commercial success or viability of your ideas. Entrepreneurship involves significant risk and external factors; Expop, its speakers and its mentors are not responsible for the success or failure of any ventures you undertake.
No Guaranteed Prize or Ranking: Competing in the Challenge is no guarantee of winning a prize or placing at any level. All awards are limited and determined by a combination of factors including points accrued by users, Expop staff’s feedback, and judges’ evaluations. There is no entitlement to any prize; even strong effort may not result in recognition. Participants accept that outcome risk and understand that not everyone will win or advance. The experience and knowledge gained are the primary benefits, and these are intangible.
No Employment or Advancement: This Challenge is an extracurricular educational program, not employment. Participating does not create any employment, partnership, or agency relationship with Expop. We do not guarantee any internship, job offer, or further opportunity beyond the scope of the Challenge.
General Disclaimer: The Challenge and all related services are provided “as is” and “as available” without warranty of any kind. Expop disclaims all warranties, express or implied, including any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. We do not warrant that the Challenge content will be error-free, that it will meet your expectations, or that any outcomes (academic, personal, or professional) will be achieved. We also do not warrant that the Challenge will be free from interruptions or that any defects will be corrected.
Your Responsibility: You understand that your success in any academic or entrepreneurial endeavor depends on many factors (such as your commitment, market conditions, etc.), and Expop offers no assurance of any particular result. In an educational context, “no guarantee of success is offered” – success depends on numerous factors beyond Expop’s control, including your own effort, background, and circumstances. Any testimonials or past success stories presented (if any) are not indicative of guaranteed outcomes.
By agreeing to these Terms, you explicitly acknowledge these disclaimers. You assume all responsibility for any decisions and outcomes arising from your participation. Expop, its staff, and affiliates are not liable for how you use the knowledge gained or for any lack of success or specific results. All advice or information obtained through the Challenge is used at your own discretion and risk.
5. Disclaimers of Outcomes and No Guarantee
5.1 No Guarantees of Results or Success: Expop provides the Challenge and its educational content to help students learn about entrepreneurship, innovation, and business skills. However, we make absolutely no guarantee or promise that participating in or completing the Challenge will lead to any particular outcome or success in any area of your life. By participating, you acknowledge and agree to the following disclaimers:
No Guaranteed Learning or Skill Improvement: While we believe the Challenge offers valuable learning opportunities, Expop does not warrant or guarantee that you will learn any specific skill, achieve any particular level of competence, or improve academically or otherwise by virtue of your participation. The program is provided on an "as is" basis without any warranties of quality or effectiveness, and individual results will vary. Your success in mastering concepts or skills depends on many factors outside our control (such as your own effort, prior knowledge, and aptitude).
No Admission or Academic Advantage: Participation in the Challenge does not guarantee admission to any college or university, nor does it confer any accredited educational credits. Expop is not affiliated with college admissions processes, and colleges will not treat participation as an endorsement or special qualification. Any suggestion that Challenge experience could aid in admissions is purely speculative and not promised by Expop.
No Business Success or Funding: The Challenge aims to inspire entrepreneurial thinking, but we do not promise that you will successfully start a business, secure funding, or earn profits as a result of this program. Any mentorship or advice provided during the Challenge is general in nature and does not come with any guarantee of commercial success or viability of your ideas. Entrepreneurship involves significant risk and external factors; Expop, its speakers and its mentors are not responsible for the success or failure of any ventures you undertake.
No Guaranteed Prize or Ranking: Competing in the Challenge is no guarantee of winning a prize or placing at any level. All awards are limited and determined by a combination of factors including points accrued by users, Expop staff’s feedback, and judges’ evaluations. There is no entitlement to any prize; even strong effort may not result in recognition. Participants accept that outcome risk and understand that not everyone will win or advance. The experience and knowledge gained are the primary benefits, and these are intangible.
No Employment or Advancement: This Challenge is an extracurricular educational program, not employment. Participating does not create any employment, partnership, or agency relationship with Expop. We do not guarantee any internship, job offer, or further opportunity beyond the scope of the Challenge.
General Disclaimer: The Challenge and all related services are provided “as is” and “as available” without warranty of any kind. Expop disclaims all warranties, express or implied, including any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. We do not warrant that the Challenge content will be error-free, that it will meet your expectations, or that any outcomes (academic, personal, or professional) will be achieved. We also do not warrant that the Challenge will be free from interruptions or that any defects will be corrected.
Your Responsibility: You understand that your success in any academic or entrepreneurial endeavor depends on many factors (such as your commitment, market conditions, etc.), and Expop offers no assurance of any particular result. In an educational context, “no guarantee of success is offered” – success depends on numerous factors beyond Expop’s control, including your own effort, background, and circumstances. Any testimonials or past success stories presented (if any) are not indicative of guaranteed outcomes.
By agreeing to these Terms, you explicitly acknowledge these disclaimers. You assume all responsibility for any decisions and outcomes arising from your participation. Expop, its staff, and affiliates are not liable for how you use the knowledge gained or for any lack of success or specific results. All advice or information obtained through the Challenge is used at your own discretion and risk.
6. Prizes and Awards
6.1 If the Challenge offers prizes (such as scholarships, travel opportunities, cash awards, or in-kind rewards) to winners or top performers, the following terms apply:
Prize Description: Prizes will be as described in the Challenge materials. Expop reserves the right to substitute a prize (or any portion of a prize) with another item or benefit of equal or greater value at its sole discretion, especially if the originally advertised prize becomes unavailable for any reason. Prizes are non-transferable and non-exchangeable, and no cash alternative will be provided. Winners cannot request substitutions or cash in lieu of the stated prize.
Travel Prize Limitations: If a prize includes travel (for example, a trip to a final competition event or an educational trip), such travel is limited to coverage within the mainland United States. Expop will cover standard airfare or ground transportation from a U.S. departure point to the event location and standard lodging as specified, for the winner only (and possibly a guardian if the winner is a minor, as determined by expop.io). Any travel from the winner’s international home country to the U.S. (and back), or from outside the 48 contiguous U.S. states (e.g., Alaska, Hawaii, or U.S. territories) is the sole responsibility of the winner. Expop provides no assistance with obtaining visas or travel documents; winners must secure their own passport, visa, or permissions at their expense and risk. Expop assumes no responsibility if a winner cannot travel due to lack of proper documents or failure to meet travel requirements, and in such cases the travel portion of the prize is forfeited without any alternate compensation.
No Reimbursements: Apart from the specific prize elements expressly promised (e.g., airfare from a certain location, hotel for certain nights), any and all other expenses are the responsibility of the winner. This includes, by way of example, ground transportation in your home country, meals (unless expressly included), travel insurance, personal expenses, baggage fees, visa fees, vaccinations, or any costs due to trip modifications or delays. Expop will not reimburse winners (or their families) for any expenses not explicitly included in the prize description. Additionally, if a winner or their guardian chooses to extend their stay or deviate from the provided itinerary, all associated costs shall be borne by the winner.
Claiming Prizes: Winners will be notified via the contact information provided at registration (e.g., email). It is the participant’s responsibility to ensure their contact information is accurate and up-to-date. If a winner does not respond to the notification and claim the prize within the stated timeframe (for example, within 7 or 14 days of notification), Expop may, at its discretion, deem the prize forfeited and select an alternate winner or dispose of the prize as deemed appropriate. Likewise, if a prize involves an event and the winner fails to attend or use the prize during the designated time, the prize (or unused portion) is forfeited. Unclaimed prizes will not be compensated.
Conditions on Prizes: Acceptance of a prize may require the winner (and a parent/guardian for minors) to sign an affidavit of eligibility, liability release, and/or publicity release, as well as any other documents reasonably required by Expop. If these are not signed and returned by the deadline provided, the winner may be disqualified and the prize forfeited. Travel prizes: Winners of travel prizes must have all necessary travel credentials (valid government-issued ID, passport, visas) and may be required to travel on specific dates. Minor winners must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian on any travel (unless otherwise agreed in writing by Expop), and the guardian may be required to pay for their own travel unless the prize explicitly covers a guardian.
No Warranty on Prizes: Expop makes no representations or warranties regarding any prize’s quality or fitness for a particular purpose. Any product prizes are provided “as is.” For prizes provided by a sponsor or third party, the winner must look solely to the manufacturer or provider for any warranty or support.
Taxes: Prize winners are solely responsible for all federal, state, or local taxes, tariffs, or import duties (if any) arising from their receipt of any prize. Expop will comply with tax reporting obligations as required by law (for example, issuing IRS Form 1099 for U.S. prize winners for certain prize values). Winners may be required to provide necessary tax information to Expop. Non-U.S. winners are responsible for any applicable taxes in their jurisdiction.
Prize Substitution and Forfeiture: If a winner is disqualified or found to have violated these Terms or the rules, they will forfeit their prize. Expop may then award the prize to an alternate winner (for example, the next highest scoring participant) or decide not to award that prize, at its sole discretion. In the event a prize (or a portion of a prize) becomes impractical or impossible to deliver (e.g., an event is canceled, a travel ban occurs, or a sponsor withdraws a prize), Expop may, in its discretion, substitute a prize of equal or greater value or cancel that prize without any further obligation.
By participating, competitors acknowledge these prize limitations. The availability of prizes is subject to these terms and participants have no claim for any alternate prize or payment if conditions prevent delivery of the stated prize. Expop’s decisions regarding prizes are final.
6. Prizes and Awards
6.1 If the Challenge offers prizes (such as scholarships, travel opportunities, cash awards, or in-kind rewards) to winners or top performers, the following terms apply:
Prize Description: Prizes will be as described in the Challenge materials. Expop reserves the right to substitute a prize (or any portion of a prize) with another item or benefit of equal or greater value at its sole discretion, especially if the originally advertised prize becomes unavailable for any reason. Prizes are non-transferable and non-exchangeable, and no cash alternative will be provided. Winners cannot request substitutions or cash in lieu of the stated prize.
Travel Prize Limitations: If a prize includes travel (for example, a trip to a final competition event or an educational trip), such travel is limited to coverage within the mainland United States. Expop will cover standard airfare or ground transportation from a U.S. departure point to the event location and standard lodging as specified, for the winner only (and possibly a guardian if the winner is a minor, as determined by expop.io). Any travel from the winner’s international home country to the U.S. (and back), or from outside the 48 contiguous U.S. states (e.g., Alaska, Hawaii, or U.S. territories) is the sole responsibility of the winner. Expop provides no assistance with obtaining visas or travel documents; winners must secure their own passport, visa, or permissions at their expense and risk. Expop assumes no responsibility if a winner cannot travel due to lack of proper documents or failure to meet travel requirements, and in such cases the travel portion of the prize is forfeited without any alternate compensation.
No Reimbursements: Apart from the specific prize elements expressly promised (e.g., airfare from a certain location, hotel for certain nights), any and all other expenses are the responsibility of the winner. This includes, by way of example, ground transportation in your home country, meals (unless expressly included), travel insurance, personal expenses, baggage fees, visa fees, vaccinations, or any costs due to trip modifications or delays. Expop will not reimburse winners (or their families) for any expenses not explicitly included in the prize description. Additionally, if a winner or their guardian chooses to extend their stay or deviate from the provided itinerary, all associated costs shall be borne by the winner.
Claiming Prizes: Winners will be notified via the contact information provided at registration (e.g., email). It is the participant’s responsibility to ensure their contact information is accurate and up-to-date. If a winner does not respond to the notification and claim the prize within the stated timeframe (for example, within 7 or 14 days of notification), Expop may, at its discretion, deem the prize forfeited and select an alternate winner or dispose of the prize as deemed appropriate. Likewise, if a prize involves an event and the winner fails to attend or use the prize during the designated time, the prize (or unused portion) is forfeited. Unclaimed prizes will not be compensated.
Conditions on Prizes: Acceptance of a prize may require the winner (and a parent/guardian for minors) to sign an affidavit of eligibility, liability release, and/or publicity release, as well as any other documents reasonably required by Expop. If these are not signed and returned by the deadline provided, the winner may be disqualified and the prize forfeited. Travel prizes: Winners of travel prizes must have all necessary travel credentials (valid government-issued ID, passport, visas) and may be required to travel on specific dates. Minor winners must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian on any travel (unless otherwise agreed in writing by Expop), and the guardian may be required to pay for their own travel unless the prize explicitly covers a guardian.
No Warranty on Prizes: Expop makes no representations or warranties regarding any prize’s quality or fitness for a particular purpose. Any product prizes are provided “as is.” For prizes provided by a sponsor or third party, the winner must look solely to the manufacturer or provider for any warranty or support.
Taxes: Prize winners are solely responsible for all federal, state, or local taxes, tariffs, or import duties (if any) arising from their receipt of any prize. Expop will comply with tax reporting obligations as required by law (for example, issuing IRS Form 1099 for U.S. prize winners for certain prize values). Winners may be required to provide necessary tax information to Expop. Non-U.S. winners are responsible for any applicable taxes in their jurisdiction.
Prize Substitution and Forfeiture: If a winner is disqualified or found to have violated these Terms or the rules, they will forfeit their prize. Expop may then award the prize to an alternate winner (for example, the next highest scoring participant) or decide not to award that prize, at its sole discretion. In the event a prize (or a portion of a prize) becomes impractical or impossible to deliver (e.g., an event is canceled, a travel ban occurs, or a sponsor withdraws a prize), Expop may, in its discretion, substitute a prize of equal or greater value or cancel that prize without any further obligation.
By participating, competitors acknowledge these prize limitations. The availability of prizes is subject to these terms and participants have no claim for any alternate prize or payment if conditions prevent delivery of the stated prize. Expop’s decisions regarding prizes are final.
7. Fees, Payments, and Refund Policy
7.1 The Challenge participation, additional offerings or related programs (for example, premium preparatory courses, mentorship packages, or subscription-based access to resources) require payment of fees. By participating in the Challenge, you agree to the following billing and refund terms:
Subscription Fees and Billing: If you enroll in a subscription-based service (e.g., a monthly or annual package for enhanced Challenge preparation or content), you agree to automatic recurring billing. This means Expop (or its payment processor) will charge the payment method you provided at regular intervals (monthly, annually, or as otherwise disclosed) without further authorization from you, until you cancel. The renewal period will be the same as the initial subscription period unless otherwise stated. You will be charged on the schedule disclosed at the time of purchase.
Authorization: By providing a payment method (such as credit card or other accepted form), you certify that you are authorized to use the payment method and you authorize Expop to charge the fees to that method. If any subscription fee goes unpaid (e.g., due to an expired card or insufficient funds), Expop may suspend or terminate your access to the paid services, but you will still be responsible for any amounts due. You agree to provide updated payment information promptly if there are changes.
No Refunds Policy: All fees paid to Expop are non-refundable. This applies to one-time payments, subscription fees, installment plans, and any other charges. No refunds or credits will be issued for any reason, including but not limited to partial use of services, early cancellation, failure to participate, or dissatisfaction. For example, if you sign up for a multi-month program or subscription and then decide to stop participating after one month, you will not receive a refund for the remaining unused time. Similarly, if you accidentally select the wrong package or fail to utilize the resources, you are not entitled to a refund. We may consider exceptions in extenuating circumstances (such as a documented medical emergency) on a case-by-case basis at our sole discretion, but we are not obligated to provide any refund.
Cancellation of Subscription: You may cancel a recurring subscription at any time by following the instructions in your account settings or by contacting customer support. Cancellation will stop future billing but does not entitle you to any refund of past charges. When you cancel, your subscription benefits will continue until the end of the current paid term (since it is pre-paid), and then will not renew. We do not provide pro-rated refunds for the remainder of a billing period if you cancel before the period ends.
Promotional Trials: If we offer a free trial or introductory promotional period for a subscription, you must cancel before the trial period ends to avoid being charged. If you do not cancel, we will begin billing your provided payment method at the regular price when the trial ends. You are responsible for keeping track of the trial’s expiration; we will endeavor to send reminders, but are not liable if a reminder is not received.
Fee Changes: Expop reserves the right to change the prices of any paid services or subscriptions. However, no price change will affect you until your next renewal or purchase. We will notify subscribers in advance (for example, by email) if a subscription price is increasing. If you do not agree to a fee change, you must cancel before the new rate takes effect. Continuing to use the service after the price change constitutes consent to the new price.
Non-Payment and Collection: If we cannot charge your provided payment method for any reason, we may suspend your access to the paid features until payment is made. We may contact you to update your information. We reserve the right to seek payment through alternative means allowed by law (including debt collection efforts for overdue amounts). You will be responsible for any costs we incur in such collection efforts, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, within the limits of applicable law.
No Chargebacks Fraudulent Claims: If you have an issue with billing, you agree to contact Expop support to resolve it and not to initiate chargebacks without giving us the opportunity to address the concern. Charging back legitimate charges or falsely claiming fraud may be treated as a breach of these Terms.
Termination for Violation: If you are removed or disqualified from the Challenge or related programs due to a violation of these Terms or other policies (e.g., Code of Conduct), you will not be entitled to any refund of fees. This is because Expop must uphold the integrity and costs of the program. As one example, if you are on a monthly payment plan for a Challenge bootcamp and are expelled for misconduct in month 2, you remain responsible for the full program fee and will not receive a refund for any portion.
By agreeing to these Terms, you acknowledge that all sales are final and all fees are non-refundable. Please review any program details carefully before making a purchase, and contact us with any questions. We are committed to delivering value, but we also must enforce a no-refund policy to sustain the program for all participants.
7. Fees, Payments, and Refund Policy
7.1 The Challenge participation, additional offerings or related programs (for example, premium preparatory courses, mentorship packages, or subscription-based access to resources) require payment of fees. By participating in the Challenge, you agree to the following billing and refund terms:
Subscription Fees and Billing: If you enroll in a subscription-based service (e.g., a monthly or annual package for enhanced Challenge preparation or content), you agree to automatic recurring billing. This means Expop (or its payment processor) will charge the payment method you provided at regular intervals (monthly, annually, or as otherwise disclosed) without further authorization from you, until you cancel. The renewal period will be the same as the initial subscription period unless otherwise stated. You will be charged on the schedule disclosed at the time of purchase.
Authorization: By providing a payment method (such as credit card or other accepted form), you certify that you are authorized to use the payment method and you authorize Expop to charge the fees to that method. If any subscription fee goes unpaid (e.g., due to an expired card or insufficient funds), Expop may suspend or terminate your access to the paid services, but you will still be responsible for any amounts due. You agree to provide updated payment information promptly if there are changes.
No Refunds Policy: All fees paid to Expop are non-refundable. This applies to one-time payments, subscription fees, installment plans, and any other charges. No refunds or credits will be issued for any reason, including but not limited to partial use of services, early cancellation, failure to participate, or dissatisfaction. For example, if you sign up for a multi-month program or subscription and then decide to stop participating after one month, you will not receive a refund for the remaining unused time. Similarly, if you accidentally select the wrong package or fail to utilize the resources, you are not entitled to a refund. We may consider exceptions in extenuating circumstances (such as a documented medical emergency) on a case-by-case basis at our sole discretion, but we are not obligated to provide any refund.
Cancellation of Subscription: You may cancel a recurring subscription at any time by following the instructions in your account settings or by contacting customer support. Cancellation will stop future billing but does not entitle you to any refund of past charges. When you cancel, your subscription benefits will continue until the end of the current paid term (since it is pre-paid), and then will not renew. We do not provide pro-rated refunds for the remainder of a billing period if you cancel before the period ends.
Promotional Trials: If we offer a free trial or introductory promotional period for a subscription, you must cancel before the trial period ends to avoid being charged. If you do not cancel, we will begin billing your provided payment method at the regular price when the trial ends. You are responsible for keeping track of the trial’s expiration; we will endeavor to send reminders, but are not liable if a reminder is not received.
Fee Changes: Expop reserves the right to change the prices of any paid services or subscriptions. However, no price change will affect you until your next renewal or purchase. We will notify subscribers in advance (for example, by email) if a subscription price is increasing. If you do not agree to a fee change, you must cancel before the new rate takes effect. Continuing to use the service after the price change constitutes consent to the new price.
Non-Payment and Collection: If we cannot charge your provided payment method for any reason, we may suspend your access to the paid features until payment is made. We may contact you to update your information. We reserve the right to seek payment through alternative means allowed by law (including debt collection efforts for overdue amounts). You will be responsible for any costs we incur in such collection efforts, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, within the limits of applicable law.
No Chargebacks Fraudulent Claims: If you have an issue with billing, you agree to contact Expop support to resolve it and not to initiate chargebacks without giving us the opportunity to address the concern. Charging back legitimate charges or falsely claiming fraud may be treated as a breach of these Terms.
Termination for Violation: If you are removed or disqualified from the Challenge or related programs due to a violation of these Terms or other policies (e.g., Code of Conduct), you will not be entitled to any refund of fees. This is because Expop must uphold the integrity and costs of the program. As one example, if you are on a monthly payment plan for a Challenge bootcamp and are expelled for misconduct in month 2, you remain responsible for the full program fee and will not receive a refund for any portion.
By agreeing to these Terms, you acknowledge that all sales are final and all fees are non-refundable. Please review any program details carefully before making a purchase, and contact us with any questions. We are committed to delivering value, but we also must enforce a no-refund policy to sustain the program for all participants.
8. Privacy and Data Collection
8.1 Expop is committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information responsibly. By participating in the Challenge, you consent to the collection, use, and processing of your personal data as described in these Terms and in our Privacy Policy (available on our website). Key points about data collection and use are as follows:
Information We Collect: Upon registration and during the Challenge, Expop will collect certain personal information from participants. This may include your name, date of birth, email address, school or affiliation, grade level, country of residence, and contact information for you and/or your parent or guardian. We also collect information that you provide as part of the Challenge activities, such as project submissions, pitch decks, business idea descriptions, survey responses, or other materials you create. Additionally, we may record video or audio of Challenge sessions, workshops, presentations, or events, which could capture your image, likeness, or voice.
How We Use Information: The data we collect is used for purposes of administering and delivering the Challenge. This includes verifying eligibility (e.g., age and parental consent), grouping teams or assigning mentors, contacting participants with updates, judging entries, awarding prizes, and improving program content. We use contact information (email, phone) to communicate with you about Challenge matters and upcoming opportunities. School information may be used to ensure diverse representation and to verify student status. Recorded sessions may be made available to other participants for educational review, for promotion purposes of future Challenges and programs organized by Expop or used by Expop for internal training and quality assurance.
Retention and Deletion: Personal data will be retained for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes of the Challenge and any legal or reporting requirements. Basic contact and participation records may be kept to inform you of future Expop opportunities. If you wish for your data to be deleted after the Challenge, you may contact us, and we will delete or anonymize data in accordance with our Privacy Policy and applicable laws, except for information we are required to keep.
Privacy Policy: These Terms incorporate Expop’s Privacy Policy by reference, which provides more detailed information on what data we collect and how we use, share, and protect it. Please review the Privacy Policy for details on topics such as cookies, third-party analytics, data security measures, and your rights regarding your personal information.
Data Sharing: We will not sell your personal information to third parties. We may share certain data with trusted third-party service providers that help us operate the Challenge (for example, platforms like Zoom for video calls, or our email service provider) – but always under obligations of confidentiality and solely for the purpose of delivering the Challenge services. If we have sponsors or partner organizations involved in the Challenge, we will not give them your personal details unless (a) it is necessary for an aspect of the Challenge (such as a judge needing your team name to evaluate your submission), or (b) you separately consent to such sharing. Any public disclosure of winners (for example, posting winner names and schools on our website) will be done in accordance with the publicity consent in these Terms (see Section 10 below).
Parental Access: If you are under 18, your parent or guardian has the right to request access to and deletion of the personal data we have collected from you, as well as to revoke consent for further collection. Parents/guardians may contact us via the contact information in our Privacy Policy to exercise these rights. We may require verification of identity to ensure that the requester is indeed the parent/guardian.
COPPA Compliance: We comply with the U.S. Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 without verifiable parental consent. The Challenge is not open to children under 13, and we take steps to remove any such data if we become aware of it. If a participant is between 13 and 15 years old, we may take additional precautions (such as notifying a parent) consistent with COPPA’s intent, even if COPPA does not strictly require it once the child is 13. No one under 13 is allowed to participate or provide personal data, and by registering you confirm that you meet the age requirement.
GDPR and International Data: For participants from the European Union, United Kingdom, or other regions with data protection laws (e.g., GDPR), Expop will ensure that any processing of personal data is lawful and in accordance with those regulations. We rely on your consent (and if you are a minor in the EU, your parent’s consent) to process your data for the purposes of the Challenge. You have rights under GDPR, including the right to access your data, correct inaccuracies, or request deletion in certain circumstances. Because Expop is based in the United States, your data will be transferred to and stored on servers in the U.S. By registering, you acknowledge that your data may be transferred to the U.S.. We will take appropriate safeguards (such as using standard contractual clauses or other legally recognized means) to protect personal data for participants outside the U.S. If you have any questions or requests regarding your personal data, you can contact us as detailed in the Privacy Policy.
State Privacy Laws: We also comply with relevant state privacy laws in the U.S. (such as California’s laws, including the California Consumer Privacy Act as amended, and other states’ laws) as applicable. Depending on your residency, you may have specific rights (e.g., for California residents, the right to know, delete, or opt-out of certain data uses). Expop will honor those rights as required. Because participants in the Challenge are generally minors, we treat their data with heightened sensitivity and do not share it for marketing purposes without consent.
Recordings and Media: As noted, Challenge activities may be recorded. By participating, you (and your parent/guardian if you are a minor) consent to Expop’s recording of Challenge sessions, including your image and voice. These recordings may be shared with participants or used by Expop for promotional, educational, or informational purposes as outlined in Section 10 (Media Release). If you have concerns about being recorded, please contact us in advance to discuss accommodations; however, be aware that opting out of recordings may limit your ability to participate in certain activities.
Security: We implement reasonable and appropriate security measures to protect personal data from unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. However, no internet transmission or storage system can be guaranteed 100% secure. By participating, you understand that there is some inherent risk in transmitting information via the internet, and we cannot warrant absolute security.
By participating in the Challenge, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with our Privacy Policy and the terms above. If at any point you do not agree with our data practices, please contact us or cease participation (though note that essential data may still need to be retained for legal purposes). We take privacy seriously and handle all personal information in compliance with applicable laws and with respect for our participants’ rights.
8. Privacy and Data Collection
8.1 Expop is committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information responsibly. By participating in the Challenge, you consent to the collection, use, and processing of your personal data as described in these Terms and in our Privacy Policy (available on our website). Key points about data collection and use are as follows:
Information We Collect: Upon registration and during the Challenge, Expop will collect certain personal information from participants. This may include your name, date of birth, email address, school or affiliation, grade level, country of residence, and contact information for you and/or your parent or guardian. We also collect information that you provide as part of the Challenge activities, such as project submissions, pitch decks, business idea descriptions, survey responses, or other materials you create. Additionally, we may record video or audio of Challenge sessions, workshops, presentations, or events, which could capture your image, likeness, or voice.
How We Use Information: The data we collect is used for purposes of administering and delivering the Challenge. This includes verifying eligibility (e.g., age and parental consent), grouping teams or assigning mentors, contacting participants with updates, judging entries, awarding prizes, and improving program content. We use contact information (email, phone) to communicate with you about Challenge matters and upcoming opportunities. School information may be used to ensure diverse representation and to verify student status. Recorded sessions may be made available to other participants for educational review, for promotion purposes of future Challenges and programs organized by Expop or used by Expop for internal training and quality assurance.
Retention and Deletion: Personal data will be retained for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes of the Challenge and any legal or reporting requirements. Basic contact and participation records may be kept to inform you of future Expop opportunities. If you wish for your data to be deleted after the Challenge, you may contact us, and we will delete or anonymize data in accordance with our Privacy Policy and applicable laws, except for information we are required to keep.
Privacy Policy: These Terms incorporate Expop’s Privacy Policy by reference, which provides more detailed information on what data we collect and how we use, share, and protect it. Please review the Privacy Policy for details on topics such as cookies, third-party analytics, data security measures, and your rights regarding your personal information.
Data Sharing: We will not sell your personal information to third parties. We may share certain data with trusted third-party service providers that help us operate the Challenge (for example, platforms like Zoom for video calls, or our email service provider) – but always under obligations of confidentiality and solely for the purpose of delivering the Challenge services. If we have sponsors or partner organizations involved in the Challenge, we will not give them your personal details unless (a) it is necessary for an aspect of the Challenge (such as a judge needing your team name to evaluate your submission), or (b) you separately consent to such sharing. Any public disclosure of winners (for example, posting winner names and schools on our website) will be done in accordance with the publicity consent in these Terms (see Section 10 below).
Parental Access: If you are under 18, your parent or guardian has the right to request access to and deletion of the personal data we have collected from you, as well as to revoke consent for further collection. Parents/guardians may contact us via the contact information in our Privacy Policy to exercise these rights. We may require verification of identity to ensure that the requester is indeed the parent/guardian.
COPPA Compliance: We comply with the U.S. Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) and do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13 without verifiable parental consent. The Challenge is not open to children under 13, and we take steps to remove any such data if we become aware of it. If a participant is between 13 and 15 years old, we may take additional precautions (such as notifying a parent) consistent with COPPA’s intent, even if COPPA does not strictly require it once the child is 13. No one under 13 is allowed to participate or provide personal data, and by registering you confirm that you meet the age requirement.
GDPR and International Data: For participants from the European Union, United Kingdom, or other regions with data protection laws (e.g., GDPR), Expop will ensure that any processing of personal data is lawful and in accordance with those regulations. We rely on your consent (and if you are a minor in the EU, your parent’s consent) to process your data for the purposes of the Challenge. You have rights under GDPR, including the right to access your data, correct inaccuracies, or request deletion in certain circumstances. Because Expop is based in the United States, your data will be transferred to and stored on servers in the U.S. By registering, you acknowledge that your data may be transferred to the U.S.. We will take appropriate safeguards (such as using standard contractual clauses or other legally recognized means) to protect personal data for participants outside the U.S. If you have any questions or requests regarding your personal data, you can contact us as detailed in the Privacy Policy.
State Privacy Laws: We also comply with relevant state privacy laws in the U.S. (such as California’s laws, including the California Consumer Privacy Act as amended, and other states’ laws) as applicable. Depending on your residency, you may have specific rights (e.g., for California residents, the right to know, delete, or opt-out of certain data uses). Expop will honor those rights as required. Because participants in the Challenge are generally minors, we treat their data with heightened sensitivity and do not share it for marketing purposes without consent.
Recordings and Media: As noted, Challenge activities may be recorded. By participating, you (and your parent/guardian if you are a minor) consent to Expop’s recording of Challenge sessions, including your image and voice. These recordings may be shared with participants or used by Expop for promotional, educational, or informational purposes as outlined in Section 10 (Media Release). If you have concerns about being recorded, please contact us in advance to discuss accommodations; however, be aware that opting out of recordings may limit your ability to participate in certain activities.
Security: We implement reasonable and appropriate security measures to protect personal data from unauthorized access, alteration, disclosure, or destruction. However, no internet transmission or storage system can be guaranteed 100% secure. By participating, you understand that there is some inherent risk in transmitting information via the internet, and we cannot warrant absolute security.
By participating in the Challenge, you agree to the collection and use of information in accordance with our Privacy Policy and the terms above. If at any point you do not agree with our data practices, please contact us or cease participation (though note that essential data may still need to be retained for legal purposes). We take privacy seriously and handle all personal information in compliance with applicable laws and with respect for our participants’ rights.
9. Use of Third-Party Platforms and Services
9.1 The Challenge may utilize various third-party platforms and services to facilitate activities – for example, video conferencing tools (like Zoom), online document collaboration (like Google Docs or Sheets), video streaming (e.g., YouTube for livestreaming events or hosting videos), communication channels (such as Slack or Discord), and others. It’s important for participants (and parents/guardians) to understand that these third-party services have their own terms and privacy policies, and your use of those services is subject to their rules as well as to Expop’s Terms. Key points regarding third-party services:
Acceptance of Third-Party Terms: By participating in the Challenge, you may be required to use certain third-party applications or websites. You agree to comply with the terms of service and user guidelines of any third-party platform used during the Challenge. For example, if we conduct a webinar via Zoom, you must abide by Zoom’s terms; if we use a YouTube unlisted video for content, YouTube’s terms apply, etc. If you are not already familiar with those terms, please review them (with a parent if applicable) before use. Expop is not responsible for any third-party terms violations you commit, and your Expop participation may be ended if you violate a third-party platform’s rules during Challenge activities.
Platform Accounts: Some third-party services might require you to have an account (for instance, a Google account for Google Docs, or a Zoom account for certain features). Where possible, we will enable participation without requiring you to create new accounts (e.g., providing links that allow joining as a guest). However, if account creation is necessary, participants under 18 should do so with parental oversight and use accurate age information to ensure compliance (many services also restrict under-13 users). If you are under 18, do not create accounts on platforms that prohibit minors without supervision; a parent or guardian may need to create or supervise the account as required by that platform’s rules.
No Control Over Third Parties: Expop does not own or control these third-party services. We provide links or access to them purely for your convenience and for running the Challenge’s activities. The inclusion of a third-party tool or link does not imply endorsement by Expop, nor do we assume any responsibility for their content, accuracy, or availability. We are not liable for any downtime, data loss, security breach, or other issues on those platforms. For example, if Zoom experiences an outage during a scheduled session, Expop is not responsible for the interruption. Similarly, if a document you edit on Google Drive is lost due to Google’s system issues, we will try to assist but cannot be held liable for the loss.
Privacy on Third-Party Services: Any information you provide on a third-party platform is also subject to that service’s privacy policy. For instance, if you sign up for a Slack workspace for the Challenge, the information on your Slack profile is governed by Slack’s privacy practices. Expop will make efforts to configure privacy-friendly settings (e.g., using private groups or disabling public sharing of personal data on those platforms), but ultimately we have no control over data practices of third parties. We recommend you use caution when sharing personal information on any third-party tools and avoid sharing sensitive details in public channels
Third-Party Content: During the Challenge, we may share links or references to third-party content (articles, videos, etc.) for educational purposes. These are provided for your convenience, and expop.io does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy or appropriateness of such external content. If you leave Expop’s platform via a link, understand you are subject to the terms of that new site. Any dealings you have with third-party providers are between you and that provider; Expop is not responsible for any transactions, interactions, or disputes between you and a third-party.
Liability Release: Participants (and their guardians) agree that Expop shall not be liable for any issues arising from the use of third-party platforms, including but not limited to: account suspensions or bans by those platforms, data breaches or leaks on those platforms, accessibility or accommodation failures on those platforms, or content on those platforms that participants may find objectionable (though we strive to use reputable services). You use these external services at your own risk, and any problems must be resolved with the third-party provider directly.
Technical Support: Expop will provide basic guidance on how to access Challenge materials on third-party platforms (e.g., sending instructions or help docs for using Zoom or Google Drive if needed). However, we cannot provide in-depth technical support for third-party services. If you encounter technical difficulties with a third-party tool, we will do our best to assist in a general way, but you may need to seek help from the third-party’s support channels..
In summary, use of third-party platforms is a necessary part of this modern Challenge, and by participating you accept those third-party terms and acknowledge Expop’s lack of control over those services. We will try to select reliable, youth-friendly tools, but your adherence to their rules and the risks associated with them are your responsibility. Always exercise good judgement when online.
9. Use of Third-Party Platforms and Services
9.1 The Challenge may utilize various third-party platforms and services to facilitate activities – for example, video conferencing tools (like Zoom), online document collaboration (like Google Docs or Sheets), video streaming (e.g., YouTube for livestreaming events or hosting videos), communication channels (such as Slack or Discord), and others. It’s important for participants (and parents/guardians) to understand that these third-party services have their own terms and privacy policies, and your use of those services is subject to their rules as well as to Expop’s Terms. Key points regarding third-party services:
Acceptance of Third-Party Terms: By participating in the Challenge, you may be required to use certain third-party applications or websites. You agree to comply with the terms of service and user guidelines of any third-party platform used during the Challenge. For example, if we conduct a webinar via Zoom, you must abide by Zoom’s terms; if we use a YouTube unlisted video for content, YouTube’s terms apply, etc. If you are not already familiar with those terms, please review them (with a parent if applicable) before use. Expop is not responsible for any third-party terms violations you commit, and your Expop participation may be ended if you violate a third-party platform’s rules during Challenge activities.
Platform Accounts: Some third-party services might require you to have an account (for instance, a Google account for Google Docs, or a Zoom account for certain features). Where possible, we will enable participation without requiring you to create new accounts (e.g., providing links that allow joining as a guest). However, if account creation is necessary, participants under 18 should do so with parental oversight and use accurate age information to ensure compliance (many services also restrict under-13 users). If you are under 18, do not create accounts on platforms that prohibit minors without supervision; a parent or guardian may need to create or supervise the account as required by that platform’s rules.
No Control Over Third Parties: Expop does not own or control these third-party services. We provide links or access to them purely for your convenience and for running the Challenge’s activities. The inclusion of a third-party tool or link does not imply endorsement by Expop, nor do we assume any responsibility for their content, accuracy, or availability. We are not liable for any downtime, data loss, security breach, or other issues on those platforms. For example, if Zoom experiences an outage during a scheduled session, Expop is not responsible for the interruption. Similarly, if a document you edit on Google Drive is lost due to Google’s system issues, we will try to assist but cannot be held liable for the loss.
Privacy on Third-Party Services: Any information you provide on a third-party platform is also subject to that service’s privacy policy. For instance, if you sign up for a Slack workspace for the Challenge, the information on your Slack profile is governed by Slack’s privacy practices. Expop will make efforts to configure privacy-friendly settings (e.g., using private groups or disabling public sharing of personal data on those platforms), but ultimately we have no control over data practices of third parties. We recommend you use caution when sharing personal information on any third-party tools and avoid sharing sensitive details in public channels
Third-Party Content: During the Challenge, we may share links or references to third-party content (articles, videos, etc.) for educational purposes. These are provided for your convenience, and expop.io does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy or appropriateness of such external content. If you leave Expop’s platform via a link, understand you are subject to the terms of that new site. Any dealings you have with third-party providers are between you and that provider; Expop is not responsible for any transactions, interactions, or disputes between you and a third-party.
Liability Release: Participants (and their guardians) agree that Expop shall not be liable for any issues arising from the use of third-party platforms, including but not limited to: account suspensions or bans by those platforms, data breaches or leaks on those platforms, accessibility or accommodation failures on those platforms, or content on those platforms that participants may find objectionable (though we strive to use reputable services). You use these external services at your own risk, and any problems must be resolved with the third-party provider directly.
Technical Support: Expop will provide basic guidance on how to access Challenge materials on third-party platforms (e.g., sending instructions or help docs for using Zoom or Google Drive if needed). However, we cannot provide in-depth technical support for third-party services. If you encounter technical difficulties with a third-party tool, we will do our best to assist in a general way, but you may need to seek help from the third-party’s support channels..
In summary, use of third-party platforms is a necessary part of this modern Challenge, and by participating you accept those third-party terms and acknowledge Expop’s lack of control over those services. We will try to select reliable, youth-friendly tools, but your adherence to their rules and the risks associated with them are your responsibility. Always exercise good judgement when online.
10. Intellectual Property and User Content
This section addresses ownership and rights regarding intellectual property (IP) related to the Challenge, including Expop’s content and trademarks, the content you as a participant create or submit, and permissions for Expop to use Challenge-related materials:
10.1 Expop Materials: All content provided by Expop as part of the Challenge – including curricula, presentation slides, PDFs, exercises, logos, graphics, website content, and any other materials – are the intellectual property of Expop or its licensors, unless otherwise stated. These materials are protected by copyright, trademark, and other laws. Expop grants participants a limited, revocable, non-transferable license to access and use these materials for your personal, educational, non-commercial purposes within the scope of the Challenge only. You may not copy, distribute, modify, or create derivative works from expop.io’s content unless expressly permitted by us. For example, you can download a worksheet for your use, but you cannot post our curriculum slides publicly or use our logo without permission. All Expop names, logos, and trademarks (such as the “Expop” name and logo) are strictly owned by Expop and may not be used in any way without our prior written consent, except as necessary for your participation (for instance, you can mention “participating in Expop’s challenge” factually, but you can’t brand your own event with our name). We reserve all rights not expressly granted.
10.2 Participant-Created Content (Your Submissions): As part of the Challenge, you and your team will be creating content – for example, business plan documents, pitch presentations, prototypes, videos, and other materials (collectively, "User Content"). You retain ownership of any intellectual property rights in the content that you create and submit; in other words, what belongs to you stays yours. Expop does not claim ownership of your team’s business ideas or creative works. However, by submitting any content as part of the Challenge, you grant Expop a broad license to use that content for Challenge-related purposes. Specifically, you grant Expop (and those acting on our behalf) a worldwide, perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive license to use, host, store, reproduce, modify, distribute, publicly perform, and publicly display your submitted content (in whole or in part), and to create derivative works as needed for the purposes of operating, promoting, and documenting the Challenge and Expop’s educational programs. This license allows us, for example, to share your submission with judges, display portions of it during an awards ceremony or on our website, include it in marketing materials or reports about the program, and retain copies for our records or future training. The rights you grant to us are for the limited purpose of running and promoting the Challenge and similar initiatives, and improving our offerings. We will not sell your submission content to third parties or attempt to commercially exploit it outside the context of promoting our programs or educational missions. Importantly, this license continues even after the Challenge ends – for instance, if we have posted a video of your pitch, we may keep that video on our website or YouTube channel for posterity, and by these Terms you agree we have permission to do so.
If you choose to remove or delete a piece of content from the active Challenge platforms (where possible), we will cease any new public use of that content at your request, but you acknowledge that cached or archived copies might persist and that content already used in previous marketing (e.g., included in a highlight reel) cannot be retracted. Always make sure you have the necessary rights to any content you submit.
Do not include third-party copyrighted or trademarked material in your submissions unless you have permission (for example, don’t use popular music in your pitch video, or trademarked characters in your product design, unless it is within a permitted use). By submitting content, you represent and warrant that your work is original to you (or that you have obtained all necessary rights for any third-party elements) and that our use of your content as permitted will not infringe or violate the rights of any other person or entity. You agree to indemnify and hold Expop harmless from any claim that your content violated another’s rights.
Expop is not obligated to use or publish any content you submit, and you are not entitled to any compensation for our use of your licensed content for Challenge purposes.
10.3 Project Intellectual Property (Patents, etc.): If your team’s project or business idea is something you intend to develop beyond the Challenge, you are solely responsible for protecting any intellectual property (such as filing patents or keeping trade secrets) before you publicly disclose it. The Challenge may involve public presentations or posting of your ideas, which could affect your ability to patent them later. Consult a mentor or legal advisor if you have concerns. Expop cannot advise on or take responsibility for securing IP protection for your innovations. Any patentable ideas, trademarks, or other protectable IP arising from your project remain your property; our license (above) is only to the submission materials themselves (e.g., the document/presentation), not a claim on your underlying invention. However, note that judges, mentors, and audience members are not bound by confidentiality (unless separately agreed), so do not disclose anything you aren’t comfortable sharing publicly.
10.4 Feedback: If you provide suggestions, feedback, or ideas to Expop about our programs or platform (for example, recommendations to improve the Challenge or our website), you agree that Expop can use and implement such feedback without restriction or compensation to you. We appreciate input, but any improvements based on your feedback are Expop’s property.
10.5 Media Release (Use of Name and Likeness): By participating in the Challenge, you (and your parent/guardian if you are a minor) give permission to Expop to capture and use your name, likeness, image, voice, biographical information (such as school and city), and any statements or testimonials you give, in any media, worldwide and in perpetuity, without further notice or compensation. This means Expop may take photographs or videos of participants during Challenge activities or events and use them in promotional materials, press releases, websites, social media, highlight reels, and other marketing or informational content. For example, we might post a photo of the winning team holding their award, or include a clip of your presentation in a promotional video for future challenges, or quote something inspirational you said about your experience. You agree that Expop may edit, crop, or modify such media at its discretion, provided such edits do not misrepresent you. This release is binding on participants and their heirs, and you waive any rights of publicity or privacy claim arising from Expop’s lawful use of your name or likeness as described
If you have a compelling reason to limit this (for instance, a safety concern about being identified publicly), please contact us in advance and we will attempt to accommodate reasonable requests, but we cannot guarantee anonymity given the public nature of events and results.
10.6 Third-Party IP in Challenge Content: Expop may use third-party content (like stock images, case studies, or guest speaker slides) during the Challenge under license. Those remain property of their respective owners. Participants must not reuse such content outside the Challenge context unless permitted by the owner. Likewise, if we provide access to proprietary tools or datasets, those may come with additional terms which will be communicated – you must abide by those terms.
In summary, respect all intellectual property rights: yours, Expop’s, and third parties’. What you create is yours, but by joining the Challenge you let us use it to run and promote the program, and you promise you’re not violating others’ rights. We in turn promise to respect that you own your work. We will showcase participant achievements while protecting everyone’s rights.
10. Intellectual Property and User Content
This section addresses ownership and rights regarding intellectual property (IP) related to the Challenge, including Expop’s content and trademarks, the content you as a participant create or submit, and permissions for Expop to use Challenge-related materials:
10.1 Expop Materials: All content provided by Expop as part of the Challenge – including curricula, presentation slides, PDFs, exercises, logos, graphics, website content, and any other materials – are the intellectual property of Expop or its licensors, unless otherwise stated. These materials are protected by copyright, trademark, and other laws. Expop grants participants a limited, revocable, non-transferable license to access and use these materials for your personal, educational, non-commercial purposes within the scope of the Challenge only. You may not copy, distribute, modify, or create derivative works from expop.io’s content unless expressly permitted by us. For example, you can download a worksheet for your use, but you cannot post our curriculum slides publicly or use our logo without permission. All Expop names, logos, and trademarks (such as the “Expop” name and logo) are strictly owned by Expop and may not be used in any way without our prior written consent, except as necessary for your participation (for instance, you can mention “participating in Expop’s challenge” factually, but you can’t brand your own event with our name). We reserve all rights not expressly granted.
10.2 Participant-Created Content (Your Submissions): As part of the Challenge, you and your team will be creating content – for example, business plan documents, pitch presentations, prototypes, videos, and other materials (collectively, "User Content"). You retain ownership of any intellectual property rights in the content that you create and submit; in other words, what belongs to you stays yours. Expop does not claim ownership of your team’s business ideas or creative works. However, by submitting any content as part of the Challenge, you grant Expop a broad license to use that content for Challenge-related purposes. Specifically, you grant Expop (and those acting on our behalf) a worldwide, perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive license to use, host, store, reproduce, modify, distribute, publicly perform, and publicly display your submitted content (in whole or in part), and to create derivative works as needed for the purposes of operating, promoting, and documenting the Challenge and Expop’s educational programs. This license allows us, for example, to share your submission with judges, display portions of it during an awards ceremony or on our website, include it in marketing materials or reports about the program, and retain copies for our records or future training. The rights you grant to us are for the limited purpose of running and promoting the Challenge and similar initiatives, and improving our offerings. We will not sell your submission content to third parties or attempt to commercially exploit it outside the context of promoting our programs or educational missions. Importantly, this license continues even after the Challenge ends – for instance, if we have posted a video of your pitch, we may keep that video on our website or YouTube channel for posterity, and by these Terms you agree we have permission to do so.
If you choose to remove or delete a piece of content from the active Challenge platforms (where possible), we will cease any new public use of that content at your request, but you acknowledge that cached or archived copies might persist and that content already used in previous marketing (e.g., included in a highlight reel) cannot be retracted. Always make sure you have the necessary rights to any content you submit.
Do not include third-party copyrighted or trademarked material in your submissions unless you have permission (for example, don’t use popular music in your pitch video, or trademarked characters in your product design, unless it is within a permitted use). By submitting content, you represent and warrant that your work is original to you (or that you have obtained all necessary rights for any third-party elements) and that our use of your content as permitted will not infringe or violate the rights of any other person or entity. You agree to indemnify and hold Expop harmless from any claim that your content violated another’s rights.
Expop is not obligated to use or publish any content you submit, and you are not entitled to any compensation for our use of your licensed content for Challenge purposes.
10.3 Project Intellectual Property (Patents, etc.): If your team’s project or business idea is something you intend to develop beyond the Challenge, you are solely responsible for protecting any intellectual property (such as filing patents or keeping trade secrets) before you publicly disclose it. The Challenge may involve public presentations or posting of your ideas, which could affect your ability to patent them later. Consult a mentor or legal advisor if you have concerns. Expop cannot advise on or take responsibility for securing IP protection for your innovations. Any patentable ideas, trademarks, or other protectable IP arising from your project remain your property; our license (above) is only to the submission materials themselves (e.g., the document/presentation), not a claim on your underlying invention. However, note that judges, mentors, and audience members are not bound by confidentiality (unless separately agreed), so do not disclose anything you aren’t comfortable sharing publicly.
10.4 Feedback: If you provide suggestions, feedback, or ideas to Expop about our programs or platform (for example, recommendations to improve the Challenge or our website), you agree that Expop can use and implement such feedback without restriction or compensation to you. We appreciate input, but any improvements based on your feedback are Expop’s property.
10.5 Media Release (Use of Name and Likeness): By participating in the Challenge, you (and your parent/guardian if you are a minor) give permission to Expop to capture and use your name, likeness, image, voice, biographical information (such as school and city), and any statements or testimonials you give, in any media, worldwide and in perpetuity, without further notice or compensation. This means Expop may take photographs or videos of participants during Challenge activities or events and use them in promotional materials, press releases, websites, social media, highlight reels, and other marketing or informational content. For example, we might post a photo of the winning team holding their award, or include a clip of your presentation in a promotional video for future challenges, or quote something inspirational you said about your experience. You agree that Expop may edit, crop, or modify such media at its discretion, provided such edits do not misrepresent you. This release is binding on participants and their heirs, and you waive any rights of publicity or privacy claim arising from Expop’s lawful use of your name or likeness as described
If you have a compelling reason to limit this (for instance, a safety concern about being identified publicly), please contact us in advance and we will attempt to accommodate reasonable requests, but we cannot guarantee anonymity given the public nature of events and results.
10.6 Third-Party IP in Challenge Content: Expop may use third-party content (like stock images, case studies, or guest speaker slides) during the Challenge under license. Those remain property of their respective owners. Participants must not reuse such content outside the Challenge context unless permitted by the owner. Likewise, if we provide access to proprietary tools or datasets, those may come with additional terms which will be communicated – you must abide by those terms.
In summary, respect all intellectual property rights: yours, Expop’s, and third parties’. What you create is yours, but by joining the Challenge you let us use it to run and promote the program, and you promise you’re not violating others’ rights. We in turn promise to respect that you own your work. We will showcase participant achievements while protecting everyone’s rights.
11. Compliance with Youth Protection Laws
11.1 Expop takes youth protection seriously and complies with applicable laws and regulations concerning minors’ participation in online programs and competitions. Without limiting other sections, we specifically note the following legal compliance measures:
COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act): As stated in Eligibility and Privacy sections, Expop does not allow children under 13 to register for the Challenge, in compliance with COPPA’s requirements. We do not knowingly collect personal information from anyone under 13. If we discover that we have inadvertently collected personal data from a child under 13, we will delete it promptly. Parents of participants under 13 (who should not be participating) can contact us to remove any such data. For participants aged 13-15, while COPPA may not require parental consent post-13, we still involve parents in the registration process and data practices as a matter of policy and safety.
Parental Consent and Awareness: Many jurisdictions require parental consent for minors to participate in certain activities or for their data to be processed. Expop’s requirement that under-18 participants have parental consent ensures that we align with those laws. For example, recent laws (such as Texas House Bill 18 in the USA) mandate parental consent and age verification for minors using certain online services. We incorporate steps to verify ages and secure parental agreements in line with such requirements. By registering a minor, the parent/guardian provides verifiable consent to the minor’s participation and to Expop’s collection of the minor’s information for the purposes of the Challenge..
GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and Equivalent: For participants in the European Economic Area, United Kingdom, or other regions with similar youth data protection rules, if a participant is under the digital age of consent defined by their country’s law (which is 16 by default under GDPR, but can be as low as 13 in some countries), we will require parental consent to process their personal data. We provide mechanisms for parental oversight and adhere to GDPR principles of data minimization, purpose limitation, and security. Participants (or their guardians) may exercise their data subject rights as detailed in Section 8.
State Laws – e.g., California Privacy Code, Minors’ Rights: In regions like California, minors have certain rights regarding content they post (e.g., the ability to request removal of content they posted on a website, known as the "California Eraser Law"). To the extent participants under 18 post or upload content on Expop platforms, they (or their parent) may request removal of that content, and Expop will honor such requests in accordance with applicable law. Additionally, California’s privacy laws treat minors’ data as sensitive; we do not sell any minor’s data or use it for any profiling beyond educational purposes.
Youth Employment and Labor Laws: The Challenge is an educational extracurricular activity and not employment. However, in conducting any in-person events, we are mindful of child labor laws (for instance, we will not require minors to be present at events beyond legally permissible hours, and any volunteer tasks are truly voluntary and not work). If travel or events occur, we ensure appropriate supervision consistent with youth program best practices (background-checked staff, safe environment, etc.).
Mandatory Reporting: Expop staff and mentors are instructed in maintaining professional boundaries with minors. While we do not anticipate any issues, we note that in many places, adults working with minors may be mandated reporters of any suspected abuse or neglect. If any staff member or volunteer suspects a participant is in danger, they may be legally required to report it to authorities. Our priority is participants’ safety.
No Age-Inappropriate Content: The Challenge curriculum and activities are designed for a teenage audience. We do not include adult-themed content and we comply with any content rating guidelines for minors. If using any external content (videos, etc.), we ensure it’s appropriate for ages 13+ or we obtain parental guidance consent if needed for something educational that might contain sensitive material (which is unlikely in an entrepreneurship challenge context)..
FERPA (for U.S. students): While Expop is not a school, and participants join individually, if any school is involved (like a teacher advising a team), we handle educational records in accordance with the spirit of FERPA, meaning we keep student educational information confidential and share it only with authorized individuals (like the school itself or Challenge judges or staff).
Participants and parents can be assured that Expop prioritizes compliance with all relevant laws regarding minors. If you have questions about our practices relative to a specific law or regulation (for example, a new social media law in your state requiring parental consent), please contact us. Our goal is to provide a legally compliant, safe, and supportive environment for youth innovation.
11. Compliance with Youth Protection Laws
11.1 Expop takes youth protection seriously and complies with applicable laws and regulations concerning minors’ participation in online programs and competitions. Without limiting other sections, we specifically note the following legal compliance measures:
COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act): As stated in Eligibility and Privacy sections, Expop does not allow children under 13 to register for the Challenge, in compliance with COPPA’s requirements. We do not knowingly collect personal information from anyone under 13. If we discover that we have inadvertently collected personal data from a child under 13, we will delete it promptly. Parents of participants under 13 (who should not be participating) can contact us to remove any such data. For participants aged 13-15, while COPPA may not require parental consent post-13, we still involve parents in the registration process and data practices as a matter of policy and safety.
Parental Consent and Awareness: Many jurisdictions require parental consent for minors to participate in certain activities or for their data to be processed. Expop’s requirement that under-18 participants have parental consent ensures that we align with those laws. For example, recent laws (such as Texas House Bill 18 in the USA) mandate parental consent and age verification for minors using certain online services. We incorporate steps to verify ages and secure parental agreements in line with such requirements. By registering a minor, the parent/guardian provides verifiable consent to the minor’s participation and to Expop’s collection of the minor’s information for the purposes of the Challenge..
GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and Equivalent: For participants in the European Economic Area, United Kingdom, or other regions with similar youth data protection rules, if a participant is under the digital age of consent defined by their country’s law (which is 16 by default under GDPR, but can be as low as 13 in some countries), we will require parental consent to process their personal data. We provide mechanisms for parental oversight and adhere to GDPR principles of data minimization, purpose limitation, and security. Participants (or their guardians) may exercise their data subject rights as detailed in Section 8.
State Laws – e.g., California Privacy Code, Minors’ Rights: In regions like California, minors have certain rights regarding content they post (e.g., the ability to request removal of content they posted on a website, known as the "California Eraser Law"). To the extent participants under 18 post or upload content on Expop platforms, they (or their parent) may request removal of that content, and Expop will honor such requests in accordance with applicable law. Additionally, California’s privacy laws treat minors’ data as sensitive; we do not sell any minor’s data or use it for any profiling beyond educational purposes.
Youth Employment and Labor Laws: The Challenge is an educational extracurricular activity and not employment. However, in conducting any in-person events, we are mindful of child labor laws (for instance, we will not require minors to be present at events beyond legally permissible hours, and any volunteer tasks are truly voluntary and not work). If travel or events occur, we ensure appropriate supervision consistent with youth program best practices (background-checked staff, safe environment, etc.).
Mandatory Reporting: Expop staff and mentors are instructed in maintaining professional boundaries with minors. While we do not anticipate any issues, we note that in many places, adults working with minors may be mandated reporters of any suspected abuse or neglect. If any staff member or volunteer suspects a participant is in danger, they may be legally required to report it to authorities. Our priority is participants’ safety.
No Age-Inappropriate Content: The Challenge curriculum and activities are designed for a teenage audience. We do not include adult-themed content and we comply with any content rating guidelines for minors. If using any external content (videos, etc.), we ensure it’s appropriate for ages 13+ or we obtain parental guidance consent if needed for something educational that might contain sensitive material (which is unlikely in an entrepreneurship challenge context)..
FERPA (for U.S. students): While Expop is not a school, and participants join individually, if any school is involved (like a teacher advising a team), we handle educational records in accordance with the spirit of FERPA, meaning we keep student educational information confidential and share it only with authorized individuals (like the school itself or Challenge judges or staff).