A Place Just For Local Businesses
To Communicate With Their Customers
In Near Real-Time
Without The Competition Of Big Coporations
Who We Are
About BackLocal
Bringing Locals Closer, One Business at a Time
Welcome to BackLocal, LLC., a company founded in 2022 with a vision to empower local and small businesses in their quest to thrive in the digital age. We recognized a pressing need within our communities: the challenge local businesses face in standing out amidst the dominance of big corporations, chains, and franchises. Additionally, the struggle for these businesses to effectively communicate with their valued customers was apparent.
Our Journey
Founded on Empowerment
BackLocal was born from the conviction that local businesses should have the tools and platform they need to connect with their customers directly. We envisioned an online and mobile platform that would level the playing field. A platform where local businesses could engage with their clientele in near real-time, free from the overpowering presence of corporate giants.
What We Offer
Putting the Power in Your Hands, Protecting Your Privacy
At BackLocal we provide local and small businesses with the autonomy they deserve. Our platform empowers businesses to dictate the content they wish to share, whether it's updates, changes, additions, or deletions. We enable businesses to post exclusive updates for their loyal followers, ensuring that these patrons are always in the know about special offers and unique developments that may elude the general public. We understand the importance of accurate information. Our platform allows businesses to communicate their real-time operating hours to customers, helping to prevent any unnecessary frustration.
Most importantly, we want you to know we take your privacy seriously. Your data, including operating hours and customer interactions, is kept secure and protected. BackLocal is committed to maintaining the trust you place in us by ensuring that your information is handled with the utmost care and confidentiality.
Our Vision
Growing Together
Our future at BackLocal is as exciting as it is promising. We are committed to helping local businesses not just survive but thrive. We envision businesses "graduating" from our platform when they're ready to take their next steps towards success. We have big plans on the horizon, and we can't wait to have you join us on this incredible journey.
At BackLocal, we are dedicated to supporting the heart and soul of our communities: local businesses. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected, and vibrant local business ecosystem.
Thank you for choosing BackLocal. We look forward to writing the next chapter of success with you!
Mission And Vision
Our Mission
Empowering Small and Local Businesses, Amplifying Community Voices
At BackLocal, our mission is crystal clear: to champion the cause of small and local businesses, providing them with a powerful platform to not only be heard but to thrive in the digital age. We are committed to creating an interactive and dynamic bridge that connects businesses with their customers, all while nurturing and strengthening the very heart of our communities—the local businesses.
A Voice for Local Businesses
Empowerment Through Technology
In an era dominated by corporate giants and impersonal transactions, we believe in the extraordinary potential of small and local businesses. These businesses are the backbone of our communities, contributing character, diversity, and a personal touch to our neighborhoods. Yet, they often struggle to be heard amidst the noise of larger competitors.
At BackLocal, we stand as the conduit for change. We provide local businesses with an online and mobile platform that lets their voices resonate. We offer the tools and resources necessary for these businesses to communicate, engage, and connect directly with their customers in near real-time.
Strengthening Communities
Local Businesses: The Heart of Our Communities
Our mission extends far beyond business transactions. We understand that communities thrive when local businesses flourish. That's why we've dedicated ourselves to nurturing the very heart of our neighborhoods—the local businesses that make our communities unique.
We believe in a future where local businesses don't just survive; they thrive. Our platform aims to create a supportive ecosystem that empowers businesses to grow, prosper, and continue playing their vital role in building vibrant communities.
Join Us in This Journey
Together, We Can Make a Difference
At BackLocal, we invite you to be part of our mission. Whether you're a local business owner looking to strengthen your community ties or a customer eager to support your neighborhood businesses, we're here to bridge the gap. Together, we can amplify the voices of small and local businesses, making our communities more vibrant, diverse, and interconnected.
Join us on this exciting journey as we empower small and local businesses, one connection at a time. Together, we can rewrite the narrative of commerce, putting the community at its center.
Contact Us
Privacy Policy
Article 1: Introduction and Overview
1.1 Nature of Document:
This Privacy Policy ("Policy") is a legally binding document, promulgated by BackLocal, LLC ("Company" or "We" or "Our"). It sets forth the manner, means, and purposes for which we collect, process, store, disclose, and protect personal data from individuals who access or use our platform ("Users" or "You").
1.2 Commitment:
The Company is fully committed to adhering to best practices in data privacy and protection. We endeavor to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of personal data against any unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction.
1.3 User Consent:
By accessing, browsing, or utilizing the services on our platform, Users unequivocally express their acceptance and agreement to the terms laid out in this Policy. Users who disagree with any part of this Policy are advised to refrain from using our platform.
1.4 Applicability:
This Policy is applicable to our platform and all products, services, tools, and features offered by the Company.
Article 2: Data Collection Modalities
2.1 Direct Provision:
At various touchpoints on our platform, Users may be prompted to provide personal data including but not limited to business name, address, email, phone number, and other identifiers.
2.2 Passive Collection:
As Users navigate our platform, certain non-personal and technical data may be logged automatically by our servers. This includes IP addresses, browser types, access times, referring URLs, and other relevant session details.
Article 3: Objectives for Data Utilization
3.1 Provision and Enhancement of Services:
Data assists us in delivering and optimizing our services, tailoring user experiences, addressing inquiries, and processing requests.
3.2 Communication:
We may use the collected data to notify Users about updates, changes, or promotions relevant to our platform.
3.3 Legal Compliance:
Data might be used for compliance with legal obligations, regulations, and any court orders.
Article 4: Data Protection Mechanisms
4.1 Technical Safeguards:
We utilize advanced technical measures such as encryption, hashing, and secure socket layers (SSL) to ensure data is shielded from unauthorized access.
4.2 Organizational Safeguards:
Our employees and contractors are subject to strict confidentiality obligations and are trained regularly on data privacy best practices.
Article 5: Non-Commercialization Assurances
5.1 Exclusivity of Use:
We steadfastly assert that we will not sell, rent, lease, or trade personal user data. Only anonymized, aggregate data might be shared for research or partnerships, void of any personally identifiable information.
Article 6: Third-Party Engagements
6.1 Vetting and Oversight:
While we may engage with third-party entities, especially in payment processing, each such entity undergoes thorough vetting. They are bound contractually to maintain the privacy standards we uphold.
Article 7: Policy Alterations
7.1 Dynamic Nature of Policy:
Recognizing the evolving nature of the digital landscape, we reserve the right to modify this Policy periodically. Users are urged to revisit this page regularly to remain informed.
Article 8: Channels for Redressal
8.1 Open Communication:
Should Users have any concerns, doubts, or grievances about this Policy, they are encouraged to reach out through the provided contact channels at contact@backlocal.com.
Terms and Conditions
Introduction
Thank you for choosing BackLocal, LLC – the dedicated platform that empowers local and small businesses to connect with their customers seamlessly. As we strive to create a vibrant community without the interference of large franchises or corporations, it's essential for us to establish clear guidelines and standards. These Terms and Conditions are here to ensure a harmonious, productive, and secure experience for all our users. By accessing and using our platform, you acknowledge that you've read, understood, and agree to be bound by the terms outlined below. Together, let's champion the spirit of local businesses!
Article 1: Eligibility Criteria
1.1 Definition of Eligible Entities:
For the purposes of these Terms and Conditions, an "Eligible Entity" refers to an enterprise or commercial establishment that is classified as a small business under the criteria set forth herein.
1.2 Employee Limitation:
An Eligible Entity must employ a workforce consisting of fifty (50) individuals or fewer. For the avoidance of doubt, any business employing more than fifty (50) individuals, whether on a full-time, part-time, contractual, or any other basis, shall be deemed ineligible to utilize the services offered by the BackLocal, LLC platform.
1.3 Ownership Restrictions:
Entities with proprietors or ownership structures that hold, manage, control, or possess an interest in more than five (5) distinct business locations are expressly excluded from the definition of an Eligible Entity.
1.4 Franchise Limitations:
Proprietors, stakeholders, or any entities who own, manage, or control franchise operations are not permitted to classify their franchise as an Eligible Entity on the BackLocal, LLC platform. For clarity, even if a franchise operation conforms to the other eligibility criteria set forth in this Article, such an operation will remain ineligible due to its nature as a franchise.
1.5 Right to Verification:
BackLocal, LLC retains the right, though not the obligation, to verify the eligibility of any entity seeking to utilize its platform. Any misrepresentation, falsification, or omission of information regarding eligibility criteria may result in immediate suspension or termination of the user's account without prior notice.
Article 2: Prohibited Activities and Consequences
2.1 Compliance with Terms:
All entities and users accessing or utilizing the BackLocal, LLC platform must strictly adhere to the eligibility criteria and all stipulations outlined within these Terms and Conditions.
2.2 Prohibited Misrepresentation:
Any deliberate misrepresentation or omission of information that results in non-compliance with the eligibility criteria, or any other clause within these Terms and Conditions, is strictly prohibited.
2.3 Monitoring and Investigation:
BackLocal, LLC reserves the right, but is not obligated, to monitor activities on its platform and investigate any allegations of non-compliance or misrepresentation. Such investigations may be conducted using any lawful means at the company's discretion.
2.4 Consequences of Violation:
Entities or users found in violation of the eligibility criteria or any other provision within these Terms and Conditions may face the following consequences:
2.4.1 Monetary Penalty:
BackLocal, LLC reserves the right to impose a monetary penalty on violating entities or users. The exact amount and terms of such penalties will be determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the nature and extent of the violation.
2.4.2 Suspension or Termination:
Entities or users may have their access to the platform suspended or permanently terminated. The decision to suspend or terminate will be at the sole discretion of BackLocal, LLC.
2.5 Right to Amend Penalties:
BackLocal, LLC reserves the right to amend, modify, or introduce new penalties or corrective measures in response to prohibited activities. Such changes will be communicated to platform users in an appropriate manner.
Article 3: Payments, Cancellations, and Refund Policy
3.1 Subscription Fee:
Entities subscribing to the BackLocal, LLC platform will incur a recurring subscription fee of $19.99 per month ("Subscription Fee"). This fee grants the subscriber access to the platform's services for one month from the date of payment.
3.2 Payment Methods:
Payments must be made through accepted methods, including but not limited to third-party payment processors such as Stripe and PayPal. Users are responsible for any transaction fees or charges imposed by their respective banks or payment processors.
3.3 Refund Eligibility:
A user may request a refund of the Subscription Fee within five (5) days of the initial subscription or any subsequent renewal if they deem the service to be unsatisfactory.
3.4 Refund Criteria:
Refunds will only be granted upon the presentation of clear and convincing evidence that indicates the service provided by BackLocal, LLC was deficient or did not meet the standards as represented. The determination of what constitutes satisfactory evidence shall be at the sole discretion of BackLocal, LLC.
3.5 Cancellation:
Users have the right to cancel their subscription at any time. However, upon cancellation, users will retain access to the platform until the end of their paid subscription period.
3.6 No Refunds After Stipulated Period:
No refunds will be processed for cancellation requests or claims of service dissatisfaction made after the five (5) day period from the initial subscription or renewal date.
3.7 Changes to Payment Policy:
BackLocal, LLC reserves the right to amend the subscription fee, introduce new charges, or modify the refund policy at its discretion. Any such changes will be communicated to subscribers in a timely manner.
Article 4: Governing Law and Jurisdiction
4.1 Applicable Law:
These Terms and Conditions, as well as any related agreements, transactions, or disputes between the user and BackLocal, LLC, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Florida, without regard to its conflict of laws principles.
4.2 Exclusive Jurisdiction:
Any legal suit, action, or proceeding arising out of, or related to, these Terms and Conditions or the services provided by BackLocal, LLC shall be instituted exclusively in the federal or state courts located in Florida. Both parties irrevocably submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of these courts in any such suit, action, or proceeding.
4.3 Waiver of Objection:
Users waive any and all objections to the exercise of jurisdiction over them by the aforementioned courts and to venue in such courts.
4.4 Alternative Dispute Resolution:
Notwithstanding the aforementioned provisions, the parties may mutually agree upon alternative methods of dispute resolution, such as mediation or arbitration, if deemed appropriate.
Article 5: Data Handling and Protection
5.1 Sensitive Personal Data:
BackLocal, LLC does not collect, process, or store sensitive personal data as defined by applicable data protection laws. Any data that is deemed sensitive, confidential, or subject to special categories of personal data under relevant legislation will not be processed by BackLocal, LLC.
5.2 Third-Party Payment Processors:
For the processing of payment transactions, BackLocal, LLC utilizes third-party payment processors, including but not limited to Stripe and PayPal. By opting to proceed with a transaction, users implicitly authorize BackLocal, LLC to direct their payment details and other necessary transaction data to these third-party processors for the sole purpose of completing the transaction.
5.3 Data Protection Compliance:
All third-party payment processors associated with BackLocal, LLC are expected to comply with prevailing data protection laws and maintain the confidentiality and integrity of users' payment information. However, BackLocal, LLC shall not be held responsible for the actions or omissions of these third-party entities.
5.4 Limitation on Liability:
While BackLocal, LLC takes measures to ensure the security of data shared by its users, the platform is not liable for unauthorized access, breaches, or data theft that occur outside of its control or due to the malicious activities of third parties.
Article 6: Modifications to the Terms and Conditions
6.1 Amendment Rights:
BackLocal, LLC expressly reserves the right to modify, amend, or replace these Terms and Conditions at its sole discretion and at any time without prior notice to the users.
6.2 Notification:
While BackLocal, LLC is under no obligation to provide individual notifications of changes, efforts will be made to inform users of any substantial modifications to these Terms and Conditions. Such notifications may be made via the platform, email, or other communication methods deemed appropriate by BackLocal, LLC.
6.3 Acceptance of Revised Terms:
Continued access to, and use of, the BackLocal, LLC platform subsequent to any amendments or modifications to these Terms and Conditions constitutes unequivocal acceptance by the user of such updated terms. It is the user's responsibility to review these Terms and Conditions periodically to be aware of any changes.
6.4 Date of Last Revision:
The date of the last revision of these Terms and Conditions will be indicated at the bottom of this document, enabling users to ascertain the currency of the terms they are agreeing to.
Article 7: User Consent and Acknowledgment
7.1 Obtaining Consent:
At the point of registration or signup on the BackLocal, LLC platform, all users will be required to expressly acknowledge and consent to these Terms and Conditions and the Privacy Policy. This acknowledgment will typically take the form of an actionable gesture, such as checking a box or clicking a button indicating the user's agreement.
7.2 Affirmative Action:
By taking the said affirmative action during the signup process, the user expressly agrees to be bound by the stipulations, conditions, and provisions contained within these Terms and Conditions and the Privacy Policy.
7.3 Informed Consent:
It is the responsibility of the user to thoroughly review these Terms and Conditions and the Privacy Policy before providing consent. By providing consent, the user affirms that they have read, understood, and agree to be bound by all the terms set forth in both documents.
7.4 Continuous Consent:
Continued use of the BackLocal, LLC platform, subsequent to the signup, is also deemed as ongoing acknowledgment and acceptance of these Terms and Conditions and the Privacy Policy.
Article 8: Contact and Communication
8.1 Queries and Concerns:
Should you have any questions, clarifications, or concerns regarding these Terms and Conditions or any other related matter, we encourage you to reach out to us.
8.2 Contact Details:
For swift and effective communication, please contact BackLocal, LLC via the following means: Email: contact@backlocal.com.
8.3 Response Time:
While we endeavor to address all inquiries in a timely and efficient manner, please allow up to three (3) business days for a comprehensive response.
8.4 Feedback:
We value your feedback and suggestions. If you have recommendations on how we can enhance our platform or services, do not hesitate to share them with us.
Legal Disclaimer
1. General:
This Disclaimer is a legal document governing your use of the services, tools, products, and features offered by BackLocal, LLC ("Company" or "We" or "Our"). By accessing or using our platform, you ("User" or "You") agree to the stipulations laid out herein.
Users can prioritize their Top 12 favorite businesses for quick updates right on their profile page. Additional favorites, along with that businesses updates, can be viewed on the Following Page.
2. No Liability for Third-party Content:
BackLocal, LLC provides a platform for local and small businesses to communicate directly with their customers. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee or endorse the reliability, completeness, or timeliness of any third-party content presented on our platform. The views, opinions, and claims expressed by businesses on our platform are solely their own and do not reflect the views or policies of BackLocal, LLC.
3. No Warranties:
All services, tools, products, and features offered by BackLocal, LLC are provided "as is" without any representations or warranties, express or implied. The Company makes no representations or warranties regarding the efficacy, completeness, or suitability of the services provided.
4. Indemnification:
You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless BackLocal, LLC, its officers, directors, employees, agents, and third parties, from any costs, liabilities, and expenses (including reasonable attorney's fees) relating to or arising out of your use of the platform or your violation of this Disclaimer.
5. Limitation of Liability:
In no event shall BackLocal, LLC or its affiliates, agents, officers, or employees be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, punitive, or consequential damages whatsoever, including, without limitation, damages for loss of profits, goodwill, data, or other intangible losses, arising out of or in connection with your access to, use of, or inability to use our platform.
6. External Links:
Our platform may contain links to external sites that are not operated or controlled by us. We assume no responsibility for the content, policies, or practices of any third-party sites or services.
7. Governing Law:
This Disclaimer is governed by the laws of Florida. Any disputes arising out of or related to this Disclaimer shall be resolved under the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located in Florida.
8. Amendments:
We reserve the right to revise or modify this Disclaimer at any time. Users are encouraged to frequently check this page to stay informed of any changes. Your continued use of the platform post any modifications signifies your acceptance of the revised Disclaimer.
9. Contact Information:
: For any questions, concerns, or clarifications regarding this Disclaimer, please contact us at contact@backlocal.com.
FAQs
What sets BackLocal apart from every one else?
For businesses, BackLocal offers businesses full control over their profiles, including real-time updates on their open/closed status at no extra cost. Our platform is exclusively for small and local businesses, eliminating the noise from larger chains.
Users can prioritize their Top 12 favorite businesses for quick updates right on their profile page. Additional favorites, along with that businesses updates, can be viewed on the Following Page.
What businesses can sign up for BackLocal?
Any business that is a small or locally owned business, as defined in our Terms and Conditions, whose owner does not have more than 5 locations or entities of the specific business.
Why does BackLocal charge a subscription for businesses?
In today's digital age, data has become a valuable currency. Many platforms profit by collecting and selling user data to third parties, often without explicit consent. At BackLocal, we staunchly oppose such practices. Your business data and the information you share with us are yours and yours alone. We respect that and have a fundamental belief in the right to privacy. Furthermore, without the need to leverage data for advertising or third-party sales, we can create a more streamlined, ad-free experience for our users. This means businesses can use our platform without constant distractions or concerns about unwanted marketing ploys.
In essence, our decision to charge a subscription fee isn't merely a business choice; it's a reflection of our core values and our dedication to serving businesses in the most honest, effective, and respectful manner possible.
Do you share our data with any third-party?
We only share your location and map data with third parties if you permit us to. You can opt to use our services without geolocation by providing a zip code for searches. If we engage external services, they'll only access your data as necessary to complete their tasks.
Is BackLocal free to users?
Enjoy our platform of BackLocal at no cost to you. Discover local businesses dedicated to excellence in serving your needs. Should there ever be any changes, we'll keep you informed. Typically, any such change would be to enhance your user experience.
How come my customers can't see things that I post?
BackLocal has integrated a way for your customers to follow your business in order to see your posts. Think of your posts as a way for you to communicate with the people who really want to know when you have anything special going on. You can also use that ability to give special deals just to your followers!