Privacy Policy

1. Introduction & Scope

This Privacy Policy explains how LaunchSum ("LaunchSum", "we", "us", or "our") collects, uses, and shares information when you visit or use launchsum.com and the startup cost calculator and related content (collectively, the "Service"). LaunchSum is designed to be privacy-friendly: the calculator runs in your browser and does not require an account or signup to use.

2. Information We Collect

Information you provide. The calculator lets you enter values such as business model selections and cost inputs. These inputs are used to generate your estimate and are processed for that purpose. We do not require you to provide your name, email address, or other personal identifiers to use the calculator. If you choose to contact us directly, we will receive the information you include in your message.

Information collected automatically. Like most websites, when you access the Service we and our service providers may automatically collect certain technical information, such as your device and browser type, approximate location derived from your IP address, pages viewed, referring pages, and general usage patterns. This information is collected through cookies and similar technologies as described below.

3. How We Use Information

We use the information we collect to:

• Provide, operate, and maintain the Service and its features.
• Generate the cost estimates you request from the calculator.
• Understand how visitors use the Service so we can improve its content and performance.
• Monitor for, prevent, and address technical issues or abuse.
• Respond to your inquiries and communications.
• Comply with applicable legal obligations.

4. Cookies & Tracking Technologies

We and our service providers may use cookies, local storage, and similar tracking technologies to operate the Service, remember your preferences, and measure usage. You can control or disable cookies through your browser settings; however, some parts of the Service may not function properly without them.

5. Analytics & Third-Party Services

We use third-party analytics tools, including Vercel Analytics, to help us understand aggregate usage of the Service, such as page views and general traffic trends. These providers may collect information about your use of the Service in accordance with their own privacy policies. We use this information only in aggregated or de-identified form to improve the Service.

6. Affiliate Links & Disclosure

The Service may contain affiliate links to third-party products and services. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase or sign up, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. When you follow such a link, the third party may collect information about you in accordance with their own privacy practices. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of third-party websites, and we encourage you to review their policies.

7. Data Sharing & Disclosure

We do not sell your personal information. We may share information with trusted service providers who perform services on our behalf (such as hosting and analytics), with such providers being bound to use the information only as necessary to provide those services. We may also disclose information if required to do so by law, to enforce our Terms, or to protect the rights, property, or safety of LaunchSum, our users, or others.

8. Data Retention

We retain automatically collected and aggregated usage information for only as long as necessary for the purposes described in this policy or as required by law. Calculator inputs are processed to generate your estimate and are not associated with your identity. Information you send us directly is retained as long as needed to respond to and document your inquiry.

9. Your Rights

Depending on where you live, you may have rights under data protection laws such as the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) or the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). These may include the right to access, correct, delete, or restrict the processing of your personal information, and the right to object to certain processing. To exercise any of these rights, please contact us using the details below. We will respond in accordance with applicable law.

10. Children's Privacy

The Service is not directed to children under the age of 13 (or the equivalent minimum age in your jurisdiction), and we do not knowingly collect personal information from children. If you believe a child has provided us with personal information, please contact us so we can take appropriate action.

11. Changes to this Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. When we do, we will revise the "Last updated" date at the top of this page. Your continued use of the Service after any changes become effective indicates your acceptance of the updated policy. We encourage you to review this page periodically.

12. Contact Information

If you have any questions about this Privacy Policy or our data practices, please contact us at hello@launchsum.com.