Terms of Service

Terms of Service

Issued On: August 1, 2024 | Last Updated On: April 26, 2025

Service Provider
The Global Fashion Directory platform and related services are provided by, and you are contracting with:

Global Fashion Directory LLC
Organized under the laws of the State of Hawaii, USA, and operating under the laws of the USA.

Mailing Address:
PO Box 2190
Volcano, Hawaii 96785
USA

Welcome to the services provided by Global Fashion Directory LLC (“GFD”). These Terms of Service (“Terms”) govern your access to and use of our websites, platforms, applications, services, and related content (collectively, the “Platform”), and incorporate by reference all related GFD policies referenced herein.

In these Terms, “we,” “us,” or “our” refers to GFD, including our affiliates, officers, directors, employees, agents, contractors, and licensors. “Platform” means all digital properties and services operated by GFD, including websites, online platforms, business directories, mobile applications, member databases, matchmaking technology (such as the Match Engine™), communication tools, and any other related services.

“User,” “you,” or “your” means any individual, company, organization, or entity that accesses, browses, registers for, claims a listing on, or otherwise uses the Platform, including those who complete the onboarding process and become Members listed in the GFD directory. Businesses listed by GFD without prior onboarding or registration (i.e., curated listings) are not considered Users under these Terms until they actively engage with the Platform.

By accessing or using any part of the Platform as a User, you agree to be bound by these Terms and all applicable GFD policies and agreements referenced within them.

If you are using the Platform on behalf of a company, organization, or other entity, you represent and warrant that you have authority to bind that entity to these Terms. In such cases, “you” and “your” refer to both you individually and the entity you represent.

1. Acceptance of Terms for Onboarding and Membership

By completing and submitting the onboarding form to the Global Fashion Directory LLC (“GFD”), you agree to these Terms and Conditions. The submission of inaccurate, incomplete, or misleading information may result in the suspension or removal of your profile from the directory.

2. Accuracy and Integrity of Information

You certify that all information provided during account registration or in the onboarding form is complete, truthful, and accurate to the best of your knowledge. This includes information submitted to create a GFD account, initiate a business profile, or participate in any GFD services. GFD reserves the right to review and adjust category selections, profile content, or other submissions if the documentation or information provided does not support the claimed details. This ensures accurate representation and consistency across the directory.

3. Data Privacy and Protection

GFD collects personal and business information solely for onboarding, verification, member support, and compliance with platform standards. We are committed to protecting your data in accordance with global privacy laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA).

We do not sell or disclose your data to unauthorized third parties.

(See full Privacy Policy for detailed data handling information)

4. Intellectual Property

All content you provide, including images, descriptions, and company information, is submitted with permission for GFD to display on its platform. You retain ownership of the content but grant GFD a non-exclusive license to use, display, and promote it as part of your directory listing.

(See full Intellectual Property Policy for specific guidelines on content usage)

5. Compliance with Laws and Standards

You affirm that your business operations, products, and services comply with all applicable laws, including those concerning ethical production, environmental responsibility, and safety standards. GFD may request proof of compliance to confirm adherence. Members must ensure compliance with GFD’s Forced and Child Labor Policy. If non-compliance is confirmed, the member will be suspended or removed from the directory. Suspected violations may result in profile review, temporary holds, or documentation requests.

6. Changes to Terms

GFD may update these Terms and Conditions periodically to reflect changes in legal requirements or operational needs. By continuing to use the directory services, you accept any such modifications. The latest version will always be available at https://grant.globalfashiondirectory.com/legal/terms-of-service/.

7. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, GFD and its affiliates, officers, employees, agents, contractors, and licensors shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or exemplary damages, including but not limited to loss of profits, loss of data, business interruption, or reputational harm, arising from or related to the use of or inability to use the platform or services.

This limitation applies whether such claims are based on warranty, contract, tort (including negligence), or any other legal theory, even if GFD has been advised of the possibility of such damages.

Exceptions: Nothing in this section limits or excludes liability where such limitation is not permitted by law. Specifically, GFD does not exclude or limit liability for:

  • Death or personal injury caused by its negligence
  • Fraud or fraudulent misrepresentation
  • Gross negligence or willful misconduct
  • Data security breaches resulting from GFD’s failure to implement reasonable safeguards as required by applicable data protection laws

In jurisdictions that do not allow the exclusion or limitation of certain liabilities, GFD’s liability shall be limited to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law.

If GFD is found to be liable to you for any damage or loss arising out of or connected to your use of the platform, GFD’s total cumulative liability shall not exceed the greater of (i) the amount you paid to GFD in the twelve (12) months preceding the claim, or (ii) USD $500.

Nothing in this section shall affect any statutory rights available to users under applicable consumer protection laws.

8. Governing Law

These Terms and Conditions shall be governed by the laws of the State of Hawaii, USA. Any disputes arising from these terms shall be resolved in the courts located in the state of Hawaii.

(See full Dispute Resolution Policy for additional details on jurisdiction and arbitration)

9. Use of Government Funding

In the event that GFD receives funding from any government entity, including the U.S. federal government or state agencies, such funds will be used exclusively for purposes permitted under the applicable grant or funding agreement. GFD will maintain appropriate internal records of research and development activities, technical milestones, prototype validation, and compliance documentation in accordance with federal funding requirements and industry best practices.

10. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Proprietary Technology

GFD’s platform includes proprietary digital infrastructure built to streamline ethical B2B sourcing across the global fashion industry. While the platform is not driven by autonomous AI systems, we incorporate AI-assisted tools in targeted internal functions — including content summarization for curated listings, enrichment of onboarded business profiles, and unstructured-to-structured data conversion.

These tools are used to supplement our editorial workflows and improve the clarity, discoverability, and consistency of directory listings. All AI-generated content is derived from public or user-submitted sources and is editor-reviewed prior to publication. All core platform logic — including matchmaking, data structuring, and service delivery — is custom-built by GFD’s U.S.-based team and hosted exclusively on U.S. infrastructure. We do not outsource software development or data processing internationally.

Disclaimer: AI-generated content or recommendations presented on GFD are informational in nature and do not constitute endorsements, guarantees, or professional advice. Users are encouraged to independently verify any information, or business leads before entering into commercial agreements.

GFD is committed to the fair, responsible, and transparent use of emerging technology. Our internal tools are reviewed regularly to mitigate bias, uphold platform integrity, and support equitable access across all user segments.

11. Societal Impact and Public Benefit

GFD is committed to leveraging technology to address global challenges in ethical sourcing, sustainability, and expanding market access for underserved and underrepresented businesses. Our platform is designed to improve visibility, enhance transparency in supply chains, and foster industry-wide innovation in support of climate-conscious and socially responsible practices.

12. Sustainability and Circular Fashion

GFD is committed to sustainability and circular practices across the fashion supply chain. Our platform supports U.S. small businesses in reducing waste, reshoring production, and adopting ethical sourcing models that prioritize environmental responsibility. By connecting brands with like-minded, verified partners, we enable a shift toward long-term sustainability. Through strategic tools and educational collaborations, GFD helps foster a more regenerative, resource-conscious fashion ecosystem. Sustainability tags and filters are optional and user-defined. GFD does not enforce or rate sustainability performance.

13. Optional Ownership Tags

GFD allows members to voluntarily identify with ownership-related tags (e.g., women-owned, youth-owned, veteran-owned, minority-owned) during onboarding. These tags are self-reported and displayed publicly on the member’s profile if selected. Users are responsible for the accuracy of their submissions.

14. Membership Termination, Suspension, and Inactivity

GFD reserves the right to suspend or remove a directory listing if it is found to be inaccurate, outdated, or in violation of these Terms of Service. Members are responsible for maintaining accurate profile details and must notify GFD of any material changes.

Member-Initiated Termination: Members may deactivate or terminate their accounts at any time. Upon termination, the directory listing will be removed from the platform.

GFD-Initiated Action: GFD may suspend or terminate accounts for violations of these Terms of Service and Code of Conduct Policy, or other relevant policies, including but not limited to:

  • providing false or misleading profile information
  • engaging in prohibited activities
  • unauthorized use of GFD intellectual property or branding.

Notice and Resolution: GFD will generally notify members of violations and provide an opportunity to resolve the issue before suspension or termination, except in cases of severe or repeated violations.

Effect of Termination: Upon account termination, all associated data will be deleted or anonymized, except where retention is required by law.

Inactive Accounts: Accounts that remain inactive for 12 months may be marked as inactive. GFD reserves the right to remove inactive profiles to ensure directory relevance.

Reactivation: Members may request reactivation of an inactive account by contacting GFD support. Reactivation may require updated profile information or verification.

15. Listing Visibility and Discoverability

  • Searchable Database: GFD provides a searchable platform intended for members to increase visibility and discoverability within the fashion industry. By submitting a profile, you acknowledge that your business information will be accessible to other directory users as per the visibility settings and guidelines set by GFD.
  • Optimized Listings: To maintain directory standards, GFD may optimize and format listings as necessary for consistency and search functionality, without altering the integrity of the information provided.

16. Member-to-Member Interactions

  • Direct Contact: GFD enables direct connections between members for networking and business opportunities. You agree to engage with other members respectfully and professionally, in accordance with GFD’s usage guidelines.
  • Prohibited Actions: Members are prohibited from using the directory to solicit unrelated services, spam, or engage in any activity that could harm other users or the directory’s reputation. GFD reserves the right to suspend accounts that violate these guidelines.

(See full Code of Conduct Policy for detailed rules)

17. Usage of the Directory and Platform Guidelines

You agree to use the directory strictly for networking, business development, sourcing, and other professional purposes aligned with the fashion industry. Unauthorized uses, such as scraping, crawling, harvesting, or mining member information through automated or manual means, are strictly prohibited. You also agree not to use the platform to solicit members into competing directories or services in violation of GFD’s platform policies.

Members are responsible for the communications and business relationships they initiate or establish through the directory. GFD does not mediate, guarantee, or endorse any transactions, representations, or claims made by members. While GFD verifies profiles before publication, it does not assume liability for any losses, miscommunications, or disputes arising from member-to-member interactions.

18. Account Registration vs. Onboarding

  • Registered Users: Any eligible user may register for a free GFD account to view business profiles, browse the directory, and explore platform features. Registration does not require onboarding and does not create a public-facing directory listing.
  • Onboarded Members: Businesses that complete the GFD onboarding process will have their profiles verified and published in the global directory, enabling discovery, outreach, and enhanced visibility among verified businesses.

GFD may verify identities or screen registered users for compliance purposes before granting profile visibility.

19. Initial Profile Creation and Onboarding Process

GFD maintains two types of business listings within the directory:

  • Onboarded Members: These are businesses that actively submit their profile information and accept GFD’s Terms of Service. Their data is processed under the legal bases of contractual necessity and/or consent. Members retain full control over their content and may revoke marketing permissions or request updates at any time. In certain cases, GFD may assist in optimizing submitted content to improve profile clarity and quality, such as removing signatures or promotional text that impacts readability.
  • Curated Listings: These profiles are created by GFD using publicly available information (e.g., company name, website, industry category) and verified for platform relevance by GFD’s editorial team. This process is carried out under the legal basis of legitimate interest, in accordance with GDPR Article 6(1)(f). These listings do not include sensitive personal data, and do not imply a commercial relationship or partnership unless the business actively onboards.

GFD may use trusted sources such as official business registries, industry databases, or verified public websites. All curated listings are subject to accuracy review and may be removed, corrected, or claimed by the business at any time.

In jurisdictions that require prior consent for public data use, GFD provides a clear opt-out and objection process, and honors removal requests within a reasonable timeframe. Businesses may contact info@globalfashiondirectory.com to manage their listing.

20. Equal Platform Access

GFD does not assign membership tiers. All users access the same platform functionality, including discovery, networking, and outreach tools. The only difference between users lies in the type of credit package they select, which determines access volume and available services.

21. Account Security and Responsibilities

Non-compliance with platform responsibilities may result in corrective actions, including account suspension or termination.

  • Account Credentials: You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your login credentials and are liable for all account activity.
  • Security: Use a secure password and update it regularly. Notify GFD immediately of unauthorized access at info@globalfashiondirectory.com.
  • Profile Information: You must keep your profile information accurate and up to date. Members must notify GFD of any material changes, including changes to ownership, address, or contact information, within 30 calendar days.
  • Member Compliance: All members must comply with GFD’s Forced and Child Labor Policy, including ethical labor standards within their supply chains.

22. Credit-Based Pricing Structure

  • Credit System Overview: GFD operates a credit-based model for users to access advanced features, listings, and services. Credits may be purchased directly through the platform at the rates displayed on the GFD pricing page.
  • Credit Usage and Expiration: Credits can be used at any time to unlock GFD’s full access features. Since credits do not expire, users are not required to monitor expiration dates and can retain unused credits indefinitely.
  • Free Platform Access: Users may explore the platform for free. Certain advanced features, visibility tools, and strategic services may require credits, as outlined in the pricing structure.

(See full Subscription Agreement for more on credit usage and terms)

23. Pricing, Payments, and Credit Management

  • Pricing and Payment Terms: GFD will provide clear and transparent pricing on all credit purchases and package options. Users will be notified in advance of any price changes or promotional offers. Payments are securely processed through GFD’s designated payment provider.
  • Auto-Renewal and Cancellation: When available, users may enable auto-renewal for credit purchases. Users can disable this feature at any time without penalty. Cancelling auto-renewal does not affect previously purchased credits.
  • Refunds and Disputes: Credits purchased are generally non-refundable. Users experiencing issues may contact GFD support for assistance. GFD reserves the right to issue refunds or additional credits at its discretion. For billing disputes or technical errors, users may request resolution.
  • Credit Usage and Flexibility: New users may receive welcome credits to explore platform features. These credits do not expire. All purchased credits remain valid indefinitely.
  • Credit Package Changes: Users may change their credit package (upgrade or downgrade) at any time by purchasing a different package. Unused credits from previous packages remain in the account and can be used at any time. Credits do not expire, and no penalties apply for switching packages.

24. Annual Verification and Verified Member Badge

  • Annual Profile Review: GFD conducts annual reviews of all publicly listed member profiles to ensure information remains accurate, relevant, and compliant with platform policies. During this process, onboarded businesses may be asked to verify or update their profile details, including compliance with the Subscription Agreement, Code of Conduct Policy, and Forced and Child Labor Policy.
  • Verification Renewal: Members who complete the annual review and meet the platform’s standards, including policy compliance, may earn or renew their “Verified Member” designation.
  • Use of Verified Member Badge: After successful annual verification, GFD issues members a digital “Verified Member” badge for the designated calendar year. Members may display the badge on their websites, social media, and marketing materials for that specific year only. The badge must be removed or updated if verification lapses.

GFD reserves the right to revoke a member’s Verified Member badge at any time if the member no longer meets the eligibility requirements, fails annual verification, misuses the badge, or violates GFD’s Terms of Service or related platform policies.

  • Credit Auto-Renewal: Where applicable, credits may be set to auto-renew based on account preferences. Members can cancel auto-renewal at any time through their account settings.

(See full Marketing and Publicity Agreement for full compliance and terms.)

25. Marketing and Promotional Content Usage

By joining the Global Fashion Directory (GFD), members grant GFD a non-exclusive, royalty-free, revocable license to use the following types of content, solely for promotional purposes that highlight member participation in the directory:

  • Business name and logo.
  • Public profile summary (excluding contact details or sensitive data).
  • Uploaded images or visual content as intentionally provided for use on the member’s GFD profile.
  • Verified Member badge, if applicable.

This content may be featured in GFD-managed materials such as:

  • Annual Verified Member Showcases.
  • Platform-related social media posts.
  • GFD newsletters, landing pages, or pitch decks.

GFD will not sublicense, modify, or distribute member content outside of GFD-branded initiatives, nor use it for any unrelated commercial purposes.

Members retain full ownership of their intellectual property and may opt out of future promotional use at any time by contacting GFD at info@globalfashiondirectory.com

Requests for removal will be honored within a reasonable timeframe, and previously published materials may remain archived where immediate removal is not feasible.

(See full Marketing and Publicity Agreement for detailed terms on promotional usage and revocation of consent)

26. Paid Services and Match Engine™

GFD offers two types of enhanced services that provide access to proprietary matchmaking technology and strategic support:

  • Credit-Based Services: Members may use credits to unlock advanced features, including the Match Engine™, which facilitates targeted connections based on business category, values, and operational needs.
  • Paid Full-Service Strategic Partnership: Elite is a concierge-level, 12-month partnership that includes personalized onboarding, custom matchmaking via the Match Engine™, proactive outreach to potential partners, and unlimited access to the entire GFD platform and partner network.
  • Additional Terms for Elite Partnership: Participation in the Elite Full-Service Strategic Partnership may require a separate service agreement outlining the scope of services, terms, and deliverables. GFD will provide the agreement for review prior to enrollment. Members must agree to the terms of that agreement to access Elite-level concierge services.

The Match Engine™ is GFD’s proprietary algorithm designed to connect members with aligned businesses across the fashion supply chain. Access is determined by credit usage and package selection.

(See full Subscription Agreement for details on services and eligibility.)

27. Verification, Guarantees, and Lead Credit Protections

This section summarizes GFD’s approach to platform integrity and lead quality. “Verified” listings are subject to internal editorial review only and do not constitute third-party certification. GFD provides reply-based guarantees for paid plans as described in its standalone Guarantee and Verification Policy, including credit replacement for invalid leads and ROI protections for Elite users. These guarantees are based on user engagement behavior and are not promises of financial or commercial outcomes.

28. Domestic Business Engagement

GFD’s commitment to public benefit and industry advancement includes initiatives that support U.S. business development and educational partnerships. As part of this mission, GFD is committed to supporting U.S.-based businesses in expand their reach and visibility through both local and global sourcing. GFD prioritizes tools and matchmaking resources that help domestic manufacturers, fashion brands, suppliers, and service providers discover compatible business partners across the supply chain—within the United States and internationally.

29. Educational and Workforce Development Partnerships

GFD is exploring future partnerships with U.S.-based fashion programs, design schools, and universities to help students and early-career professionals gain industry insight, discover career opportunities, and build connections through exposure to the broader global fashion ecosystem. These programs are intended to advance equitable workforce development, promote entrepreneurship, and enhance industry-academic collaboration in the creative and manufacturing sectors.

30. Confidentiality and Non-Solicitation Obligations

Members agree not to use the Global Fashion Directory (GFD) platform, including any proprietary tools, matchmaking outputs, onboarding forms, or member contact data, for the purpose of developing, supporting, or promoting a competing directory, matchmaking tool, or fashion industry network service.

Members shall not use, disclose, or reproduce any of GFD’s proprietary information, including:

  • Match Engine™ outputs, algorithms, or recommendations
  • Internal workflows, data structures, or UI elements
  • Non-public platform processes or features
  • Strategic or operational methodologies provided via onboarding or concierge services

Such information may not be shared with third parties, used for commercial gain outside the platform, or reverse-engineered.

For a period of twelve (12) months following the end of an active membership, members agree not to solicit or induce any GFD-listed business—whom they connected with through the platform—to join or participate in any competing platform, directory, or service offering substantially similar functionality. This restriction applies only to relationships initiated through GFD and does not apply to prior or independently established business contacts.

These obligations shall be interpreted in accordance with applicable law and are intended to apply only in jurisdictions where such restrictions are enforceable.

31. Changes to Platform Benefits and Credit Terms

GFD reserves the right to adjust available benefits or credit usage structure to improve user experience or align with platform strategy. GFD may periodically revise the credit system, such as modifying credit expiration, introducing new features, or changing credit purchase options. Members will be notified in advance of any significant changes.

32. Monitoring and Enforcement

GFD reserves the right to monitor platform activity to detect potential violations of these Terms. Confirmed violations may result in:

  • Immediate suspension or termination of membership
  • Legal action to recover damages or prevent further misuse
  • Public disclosure of confirmed misconduct, where legally appropriate

33. Exceptions and Permitted Activities

These Terms do not restrict members from:

  • General business networking unrelated to directory competition
  • Participating in similar industry events or initiatives outside the scope of GFD
  • Collaborating with other members in a manner aligned with the platform’s intended purpose

34. Reporting Violations

Suspected violations of these Terms may be reported confidentially to GFD at info@globalfashiondirectory.com. GFD will investigate all reported violations thoroughly and take appropriate action.

35. Terms of Service Updates

GFD may revise these Terms periodically to reflect evolving business practices or legal requirements. Members will be notified of material changes, and continued use of the platform constitutes acceptance of the updated terms.

36. Contact and Legal Notices

If you have questions or concerns regarding any of the agreements, policies, or practices of the Global Fashion Directory (“GFD”), please contact us by email at: info@globalfashiondirectory.com.

For disputes or violations related to our platform terms, please see the full Dispute Resolution Policy for detailed procedures.

DMCA Notices: If you believe that content on the Global Fashion Directory infringes your copyright, you may send a DMCA takedown notice to our designated agent at:

Email: info@globalfashiondirectory.com
Mailing Address: Global Fashion Directory LLC, PO BOX 2190, Volcano, HI 96785 USA
Your notice must include the information required by the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (17 U.S.C. § 512), including a description of the copyrighted work, identification of the allegedly infringing material, and your contact information.