This policy defines how contact details are shared on the Business Development Services (BDS) Portal (the “Portal”) through a consent-driven, request-based system, ensuring user privacy, controlled access, and transparent communication.
2. Definitions
Portal: The Business Development Services (BDS) Portal operated by SME Foundation (SMEF).
User: Any individual registered on the Portal.
Profile Owner: A user whose profile and contact details are listed on the Portal.
Requester: A user who submits a request to access contact details.
Expert / Service Provider: A user offering services or expertise through the Portal.
Contact Details: Phone number and email address, unless otherwise specified.
3. Core Principle (Binding Rule)
Contact details are not publicly visible by default. They are shared only through a structured request-and-approval process, based on explicit consent from the Profile Owner.
4. Visibility Model (Request-based Sharing System)
The Portal operates a Request-based Sharing system as the standard mechanism for contact exchange. Under this model, contact details are shared only when the Profile Owner approves a verified request.
5. Request-based Sharing Process
i. A Requester submits a contact request (e.g., “Request Contact” / “Talk to an Expert”).
ii. The Profile Owner receives the request and may approve or decline it.
Outcome rules
6. Consent Management
7. Consent Logging & Data Retention
i. All consent actions (setting, approval, timestamp) are securely recorded.
ii. Records are retained:
. For the duration of the account, and
. Up to 12 months after account closure for audit and dispute resolution.
iii. If an account is reactivated within this period, prior settings may be restored where feasible.
8. Preferred Contact Method
Where enabled, Profile Owners (including Experts/Service Providers) may define a preferred contact method such as:
This preference applies only when a request is approved.
9. Verification Safeguard
The Portal is operated by SME Foundation (SMEF), in collaboration with the ProGRESS project ILO and technical partners.
SMEF may temporarily restrict visibility of contact details until user verification is completed.
This safeguard applies regardless of user-selected settings during the verification process.
Users will be notified via email and dashboard when:
The safeguard is applied, and
It is lifted after verification completion.
10. Limitations of Shared Data Use
Once contact details are shared following approval, the Portal cannot control how the receiving party uses that information.
11. Misuse & Enforcement
may result in account restriction or suspension, in accordance with the Portal’s Terms and Conditions.
12. Policy Alignment
This policy should be read in conjunction with the Portal’s Privacy Policy and applicable data protection regulations.