Introduction
PitchIt Connect (Pty) Ltd ("PitchIt", "we", "our" or "us") operates as an online platform that connects founders and investors by facilitating business introductions. We are committed to protecting your privacy and handling your personal information responsibly in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 ("POPIA"). This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, disclose, store and protect your personal information when you use the PitchIt Platform.
By using our Platform, you acknowledge that your personal information will be collected and processed as described in this Privacy Policy and in accordance with POPIA.
Information We Collect
We collect information you provide directly, as well as information collected automatically when you use the Platform.
For Founders, this may include:
- Account and profile information
- Business pitch information and supporting content
- Identity verification information (KYC)
- Communications with PitchIt
For Investors, this may include:
- Account and profile information
- Application and onboarding/screening information
- Identity verification information (KYC)
- Communications with PitchIt
For all users, this may also include:
- Device information
- Browser details
- Platform usage data
How We Use Your Information
We use your information to:
- Provide and maintain Platform services
- Verify user identities
- Facilitate introductions between founders and investors
- Improve Platform performance and user experience
- Send important notifications and service updates
- Maintain Platform security and prevent fraud
- Comply with applicable legal obligations
Information Sharing
We never sell your personal information. We only share data when required to provide services, comply with the law, or protect our rights. We may share your information only when necessary:
- To provide and operate Platform services
- To facilitate introductions through PitchIt
- With trusted service providers that support our Platform
- Where required by law
- To protect the rights, security and integrity of PitchIt and its users
Communication
We use email to communicate with you regarding your account, Platform activity, security notifications, service updates and other important information. You can opt out of promotional messages, but security alerts are required to keep your account safe.
Data Protection
We protect your information using layered controls including SSL encryption, secure storage, access controls and anonymization where appropriate.
Data Retention
We retain your personal information only for as long as reasonably necessary to provide our services, comply with legal obligations and resolve disputes.
Your Privacy Rights
In accordance with POPIA and applicable South African law, you have the right to:
- Access your personal information
- Request data corrections
- Delete your account
- Opt out of marketing
- Request data portability
Cookies
We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, improve the functionality of the Platform, remember your preferences and support the security of your account. You can manage or disable cookies through your browser settings.
Third-Party Services
We use trusted third-party service providers to support the operation of our Platform, including services such as hosting, communications and analytics. These providers have their own privacy policies, which govern how they collect and process information.
Policy Changes
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes to our Platform, legal requirements or business operations. Any updates will be published on this page, and where appropriate, we may notify users through the Platform or by email.
If you have questions about privacy or wish to exercise your rights, contact us at privacy@pitchit.co.za.