SELLER AGREEMENT

This Seller Agreement (the "Agreement") is effective March 04, 2025, by and between Steader LLC, hereinafter referred to as "Steader" or "Platform," accessed via steader.com or the Steader mobile application, with a business address of 5900 Balcones Dr, Ste 8330, Austin, Texas 78731, and all current and future sellers on the Steader platform, hereinafter referred to as "Seller" or "Member."

By accessing, browsing, or using the steader.com website or the Steader mobile application, or by selecting "I Accept" during the seller registration process, you represent that you have read, understand, and agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of this Seller Agreement.

Important Note: This Seller Agreement supplements the Terms of Service, which also apply to you as a seller. In the event of any conflict between this Agreement and the Terms of Service, this Seller Agreement will prevail with respect to matters specifically related to selling on the Platform.

1. Nature of the Service

Steader is a marketplace platform specifically designed for homesteaders, small-scale producers, and local food providers. Steader connects sellers with potential buyers in their communities and provides tools to facilitate these transactions. Steader is not a party to any transaction between sellers and buyers, and Steader does not buy, sell, or exchange any items listed by sellers.

2. Seller Benefits and Services

Steader provides sellers with the following benefits and services:

  1. Digital marketplace presence through a customizable profile and storefront
  2. Product and service listing capabilities with inventory management tools
  3. Direct access to local customers seeking homestead products and services
  4. Communication systems for customer engagement and relationship building
  5. Pickup point and delivery management tools
  6. Transaction processing and payment facilitation
  7. Community visibility and integration into the local food ecosystem
  8. Educational content sharing capabilities
  9. Promotional opportunities within the Steader platform
  10. Access to basic analytics on listings and customer engagement
  11. Option to upgrade to Pro subscription for advanced business management tools including livestock tracking, production planning, and enhanced analytics
  12. Participation in a mission-driven platform that strengthens local food systems and community resilience

3. Seller Registration and Account Information

Seller shall provide accurate, current, and complete information during the registration process and shall maintain and update such information to keep it accurate, current, and complete. Seller shall be required to promptly update their account information on the platform.

Seller shall select a username and password during the registration process. Seller shall be responsible for:a) All use of the Platform made using the Seller's username and passwordb) Maintaining the confidentiality of the Seller's username and passwordc) Any and all activities that occur under Seller's account

Steader reserves the right to refuse service and terminate accounts if Seller provides inaccurate, fraudulent, or incomplete information, or if Steader determines, in its sole discretion, that Seller's actions may cause legal liability for Steader or other users.

4. Seller Listings and Content

4.1 Listing Requirements

Seller is solely responsible for all listings, content, images, descriptions, and other information they post on Steader. All listings must:

  • Accurately represent the item or service being offered
  • Include clear descriptions, pricing, and availability
  • Comply with all applicable laws and regulations
  • Not infringe on any third party's intellectual property rights
  • Not include prohibited items or services as defined by Steader
  • Use original photos that accurately represent the product
  • Provide complete ingredient lists and production methods when applicable
  • Include clear handling and storage instructions for food products
  • Specify production/harvest dates when applicable
  • Use accurate measurements and quantities
  • Disclose any production methods or inputs used
  • Include transparent pricing and quantity information

4.2 Permitted and Prohibited Items

The following items may be sold on Steader:

  • Farm-fresh produce and crops
  • Cottage food products (following local regulations)
  • Livestock and animal products
  • Agricultural services and consultations
  • Farm equipment and supplies
  • Educational content and workshops

The following items are prohibited:

  • Processed foods without proper permits/licensing
  • Illegal substances or products
  • Unsafe food products or mishandled perishables
  • Mislabeled or misrepresented items
  • Products that violate health codes or regulations
  • Resold commercial products
  • Products from unknown or unverified sources
  • Any items prohibited by federal, state, or local law

4.3 Content License

By posting content on Steader, Seller grants Steader a non-exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free, irrevocable, sublicensable, and transferable license to use, reproduce, distribute, prepare derivative works of, display, and perform the content in connection with the Platform's operation and Steader's business, including for promoting and redistributing part or all of the Platform.

4.4 Content Removal

Steader reserves the right to remove any content that violates this Agreement or that Steader deems objectionable, in its sole discretion.

5. Fees and Payment

5.1 Commission Structure

Seller agrees to pay Steader a commission on all sales completed through the Platform according to the current fee schedule. Commission rates are tiered based on monthly sales volume and are published on the Steader pricing page. Steader reserves the right to modify the commission structure at any time by providing notice through the Platform, email, or other reasonable means. Any changes to the commission structure will become effective immediately upon posting or as specified in the notice. Seller's continued use of the Platform after such changes constitutes acceptance of the modified commission structure.

5.2 Subscription Fees

Sellers who opt for the Pro Plan will be charged the applicable subscription fee according to the current pricing. Subscription fees are separate from and in addition to commission fees.

5.3 Payment Processing

All payments on the Platform will be processed through Steader's designated payment processors. Seller agrees to comply with all payment processor terms and conditions.

5.4 Payouts

Payouts for completed transactions are processed weekly for all eligible sales. A minimum payout threshold may apply. Sellers must provide valid payment information and necessary tax documentation.

5.5 Transaction Completion and Disputes

A transaction is considered "completed" when:

  • Buyer confirms receipt of goods through the Platform
  • Any open disputes are resolved in accordance with the dispute resolution process
  • The automatic completion period ends without a dispute being filed (this period is equal to the dispute reporting window specified in the Dispute Resolution section of this Agreement)

The automatic completion period begins when:

  • For in-person pickups: The scheduled pickup time occurs or when the seller marks the order as "ready for pickup," whichever is later
  • For deliveries: When the seller marks the order as "delivered" in the Platform

If a buyer does not explicitly confirm receipt of goods, the transaction will still be considered complete after the automatic completion period ends without a dispute being filed.

Payment disputes must be filed within the timeframe specified in the Dispute Resolution section of this Agreement.

Funds from completed transactions will be released to sellers after the transaction is considered complete as defined above.

5.6 Chargebacks

Sellers will be notified promptly of any chargeback filings via their registered email address and through the Platform's notification system. Upon receiving a chargeback notification, sellers will have seven (7) calendar days to respond.

In contesting a chargeback, Steader will automatically include relevant platform data such as:

  • Transaction records
  • In-app messaging history between buyer and seller
  • Order status updates
  • Pickup/delivery confirmations recorded in the system

For standard transactions, Steader does not require sellers to maintain documentation outside the Platform's systems. However, in certain circumstances, Steader may request additional documentation, including but not limited to:

  1. Accounts subject to additional review due to elevated chargeback rates
  2. High-value transactions exceeding $250
  3. Transactions involving specialized or regulated products
  4. Recurring patterns of disputes with similar characteristics
  5. When required by payment processors for specific dispute categories

In such cases, sellers may be asked to provide supplementary evidence such as production records, sourcing information, or other relevant documentation that substantiates the legitimacy of the transaction.

Steader reserves the right to hold funds related to the disputed transaction in reserve pending resolution of the chargeback. This reserve may include the full amount of the disputed transaction plus any associated chargeback fees imposed by payment processors.

If a chargeback is upheld, Steader may deduct the chargeback amount and associated fees from the seller's future payouts or request direct payment from the seller if insufficient funds are available for deduction.

Sellers with excessive chargebacks (defined as chargebacks exceeding 1% of transaction volume or three chargebacks within a three-month period) may be subject to additional review, higher reserve requirements, or potential suspension from the Platform.

Steader will work with sellers in good standing to contest unjustified chargebacks.

5.7 Sales Tax Collection and Remittance

Marketplace Facilitator Certification

Steader hereby certifies in writing to each marketplace seller that Steader, as a marketplace provider, assumes the rights and duties of a seller with respect to sales made by the marketplace seller through the Steader platform for the purposes of sales and use tax collection.

As a Marketplace Facilitator as defined by applicable state laws, Steader is responsible for:

  1. Calculating Sales Tax: Steader will automatically calculate applicable state and local sales tax based on the transaction location, product type, and current tax rates.
  2. Collecting Sales Tax: Steader will collect sales tax from buyers at the time of purchase for taxable items in states where Marketplace Facilitator laws are in effect.
  3. Remitting Sales Tax: Steader will remit collected sales taxes to the appropriate state and local tax authorities in accordance with applicable laws and filing schedules.
  4. Tax Reporting: Steader will maintain records of sales tax collected and remitted and will provide tax reporting documentation as required by law.

Seller Responsibilities Regarding Sales Tax

As a seller on the Steader platform, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

  1. Accurate Product Classification: You are responsible for correctly categorizing your products to enable proper tax calculation. Certain agricultural products may be exempt from sales tax in some jurisdictions.
  2. Location Information: You must provide accurate location information for your business and pickup/delivery points to ensure proper tax jurisdiction determination.
  3. Non-Marketplace Facilitator States and Off-Platform Transactions: In states where Marketplace Facilitator laws are not in effect, you remain solely responsible for all sales tax obligations. Additionally, for any transactions or payments accepted outside of the Steader payment system (including but not limited to cash, direct transfers, third-party payment apps, or other off-platform payment methods), you are exclusively responsible for calculating, collecting, and remitting all applicable sales taxes. Steader's sales tax collection and remittance services apply only to transactions processed through the Steader payment system.
  4. Other Tax Obligations: This provision only covers sales tax collection and remittance. You remain responsible for all other tax obligations related to your business, including but not limited to income tax, business tax, and employment taxes.

6. Seller Obligations and Responsibilities

6.1 Legal Compliance

Seller is responsible for complying with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations relevant to their business activities on the Platform, including but not limited to:

  • Food safety and handling requirements
    • State and local cottage food laws
    • USDA regulations for meat, poultry, and egg products
  • Business licensing and permitting requirements
  • Tax collection and reporting obligations
    • Compliance with sales tax requirements in jurisdictions where Marketplace Facilitator laws do not apply (as detailed in Section 5.7 — Sales Tax Collection and Remittance)
    • Income reporting requirements for business operations
  • Consumer protection laws
    • Truth in advertising regulations
    • Food labeling requirements

6.2 Steader Quality Standards and Farming Practices

Steader is committed to promoting sustainable, ethical, and community-based food systems. Seller agrees to adhere to the following principles and standards:

  • Transparency: Provide accurate disclosure of significant production methods and practices relevant to consumer purchasing decisions, such as primary growing practices, basic animal husbandry approaches, and notable inputs used that distinguish the product from conventional alternatives.
  • Sustainable Practices: Seller agrees to employ farming and production practices that prioritize soil health, water conservation, biodiversity, and ecological balance.
  • Humane Animal Treatment: For livestock producers, animals must be raised with adequate space, appropriate nutrition, access to the outdoors, and minimal stress. Confinement systems that severely restrict natural movement are prohibited.
  • Restricted Inputs: Seller agrees to minimize or eliminate the use of synthetic chemicals, growth hormones, routine antibiotics, and genetically modified organisms unless disclosed prominently to buyers.
  • Local Focus: Products should be grown or produced by the Seller or sourced within a reasonable local radius, supporting the platform's mission of strengthening local food systems.
  • Educational Commitment: Seller agrees to participate in the community knowledge exchange by being willing to share information about their practices and methods with interested buyers.

Steader reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to determine whether a Seller's practices align with these principles. Sellers who misrepresent their practices or who employ methods that significantly contradict these principles may have their listings removed or accounts terminated.

6.3 Transaction Fulfillment

Seller agrees to:

  • Accurately represent all products and services
  • Honor all transactions initiated on the Platform
  • Deliver products and services as described and within the timeframe specified
  • Respond to buyer inquiries in a timely manner
  • Address customer concerns and complaints reasonably
  • Provide appropriate remedies for valid claims under the Purchase Protection Program

6.4 Prohibited Activities

Seller shall not:

  • Attempt to circumvent the Platform's commission structure
  • Redirect buyers to external websites or payment methods
  • Post false, misleading, or deceptive listings
  • Sell prohibited items or services
  • Misrepresent farming or production practices
  • List products from conventional agricultural operations that contradict Steader's principles
  • Harass or abuse other users of the Platform
  • Use the Platform for any illegal purpose

7. Dispute Resolution

7.1 Informal Resolution

If Seller has a dispute with one or more buyers, Seller should first attempt to resolve the issue directly with the buyer through the Platform's messaging system. Most issues can be resolved quickly through clear communication.

7.2 Platform Mediation

If informal resolution is unsuccessful, either the Seller or Buyer may request mediation assistance from Steader. The Platform's dispute resolution process includes:

  • 72-hour window for either party to report issues after delivery/pickup
  • Required response from the other party within 24 hours
  • Resolution plan development within 48 hours
  • Final resolution determination within 5 business days

Steader will serve as a neutral mediator in disputes, reviewing available evidence including transaction records, communication history, and information provided by both parties. Steader reserves the right to make final determinations regarding dispute outcomes if the parties cannot reach mutual agreement within the established timeframe.

7.3 Arbitration Agreement

For disputes that cannot be resolved through the above methods and do not qualify for small claims court, all disputes arising out of or related to this Agreement will be resolved through final and binding arbitration as described in the Terms of Service.

7.4 Class Action Waiver

Seller agrees that any dispute resolution proceedings will be conducted only on an individual basis and not in a class, consolidated, or representative action, as detailed in the Terms of Service.

8. Privacy and Data

Sellers acknowledge and agree that their use of the Platform is also subject to Steader's Privacy Policy, available at https://steader.com/privacy, which is incorporated by reference into this Agreement.

8.1 Data Retention

Steader retains seller data according to the following schedule:

  • Transaction records: 7 years
  • Customer communications: 2 years
  • Account information: Duration of active account plus 1 year
  • Listing information: Duration of active listing plus 1 year
  • Reviews and ratings: Indefinitely, unless removed for policy violations
  • Payment information: As required by payment processors and applicable laws

8.2 Seller Data Responsibilities

Sellers agree to:

  • Protect customer information received through the platform
  • Use customer data only for legitimate business purposes
  • Implement basic security measures to protect account access
  • Report security concerns promptly

9. Account Standing and Performance

Seller account standing is based on:

  • Customer satisfaction ratings and reviews
  • Response time to messages
  • Order completion rate
  • Compliance with food safety standards
  • Accurate inventory management
  • Transaction dispute resolution
  • Community engagement and support

Accounts not meeting standards may face:

  • Reduced visibility in search results
  • Temporary suspension
  • Permanent removal from platform
  • Loss of earned badges or recognition
  • Requirement to complete additional training

10. Review System

Steader's review system helps maintain quality standards:

  • Buyers can leave ratings and written reviews
  • Reviews must be based on actual transactions
  • Sellers can respond to reviews professionally
  • Dishonest reviews or manipulation will result in removal
  • Reviews cannot be removed unless they violate platform policies
  • Sellers are encouraged to request reviews after successful transactions

11. Purchase Protection Program

Steader's Purchase Protection Program provides assurances for both buyers and sellers engaged in marketplace transactions that are processed through Steader's payment system. Transactions conducted outside the Platform or using alternative payment methods are prohibited and are not eligible for these protections.

Buyer Protections

The program covers buyers for:

  • Items not received during agreed timeframe
  • Items significantly different from description
  • Spoiled or unsafe food products
  • Incorrect quantities or weights
  • Quality issues that make products unusable
  • Misrepresented production methods

Seller Protections

The program also protects sellers in the following circumstances:

  • Payment assurance for properly fulfilled orders
  • Protection from fraudulent claims or excessive complaints
  • Defense against unwarranted chargebacks with supporting evidence
  • Fair evaluation of disputes based on objective criteria
  • Review moderation to prevent unfair or retaliatory feedback

Both parties agree to cooperate with the Purchase Protection Program process and provide appropriate documentation when requested. Sellers agree to provide reasonable remedies for valid claims, which may include full or partial refunds, replacement products, or other accommodations.

Steader reserves the right to make the final determination on dispute outcomes based on available evidence, platform policies, and applicable consumer protection regulations.

12. Intellectual Property

Steader respects the intellectual property rights of others and expects Sellers to do the same. Seller represents and warrants that they have all necessary rights to the content they post on the Platform and that such content does not infringe on any third party's intellectual property rights.

13. Indemnification

Seller shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Steader and its officers, directors, members, owners, employees, agents, and affiliates from and against any and all claims, damages, obligations, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses (including but not limited to attorney's fees) arising from:a) Seller's use of the Platformb) Seller's violation of this Agreementc) Seller's violation of any third party right, including without limitation any intellectual property right or privacy rightd) Any claim that Seller's content caused damage to a third partye) Any claim related to Seller's products or services, including but not limited to product liability claims, consumer protection violations, or food safety issues

14. Force Majeure

Neither Steader nor Seller shall be liable for any failure of or delay in the performance of their obligations under this Agreement for the period that such failure or delay is due to causes beyond their reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, war, strikes or labor disputes, embargoes, government orders, telecommunications, network, computer, server or Internet downtime, unauthorized access to information technology systems by third parties, or other events of force majeure.

15. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by applicable law, Steader shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, or any loss of profits or revenues, whether incurred directly or indirectly, or any loss of data, use, goodwill, or other intangible losses resulting from:a) Seller's access to or use of or inability to access or use the Platformb) Any conduct or content of any third party on the Platformc) Any content obtained from the Platformd) Unauthorized access, use, or alteration of Seller's transmissions or content

This limitation of liability is subject to the same terms and conditions as set forth in the Terms of Service.

16. Termination

16.1 Termination by Seller

Seller may terminate this Agreement at any time by ceasing to use the Platform and deleting their account. Termination does not relieve Seller of the obligation to complete any pending transactions or resolve any disputes.

16.2 Termination by Steader

Steader reserves the right to suspend or terminate Seller's access to the Platform at any time for any reason, including but not limited to Seller's violation of this Agreement or failure to adhere to Steader's quality standards and farming practice principles, without prior notice or liability. Steader specifically reserves the right to remove sellers whose agricultural practices are inconsistent with the homesteading principles outlined in this Agreement, as determined in Steader's sole discretion.

16.3 Effects of Termination

Upon termination, Seller's listings will be removed from the Platform, but Steader may retain certain information as required by law or for legitimate business purposes. Sections relating to Content License, Dispute Resolution, Intellectual Property, Indemnification, Limitation of Liability, and General Provisions of this Agreement will survive termination.

17. Compliance and Liability

Sellers are responsible for:

  • Maintaining required licenses and permits
  • Following applicable local and state regulations
  • Carrying appropriate insurance coverage
    • General liability insurance
    • Product liability insurance (recommended)
    • Business property insurance (where applicable)
  • Adhering to food safety guidelines
    • Safe handling and storage practices
    • Temperature control for perishable items
    • Proper packaging and labeling
    • Allergen identification and disclosure

18. Changes to Agreement

Steader reserves the right to modify this Agreement at any time. Steader will provide reasonable notice of any material changes by posting the new Agreement on the Platform and/or by sending Seller an email. Seller's continued use of the Platform after such notice constitutes acceptance of the modified Agreement.

19. General Provisions

19.1 Governing Law

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to its conflict of law provisions.

19.2 Severability

If any provision of this Agreement is found to be unenforceable or invalid, that provision shall be limited or eliminated to the minimum extent necessary so that this Agreement shall otherwise remain in full force and effect and enforceable.

19.3 No Agency

No agency, partnership, joint venture, employee-employer, or franchiser-franchisee relationship is intended or created by this Agreement.

19.4 Entire Agreement

This Agreement and the Steader Terms of Service constitute the entire agreement between Seller and Steader concerning the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior or contemporaneous communications and proposals, whether electronic, oral, or written, between Seller and Steader with respect to the Platform.

19.5 Waiver

No waiver of any term of this Agreement shall be deemed a further or continuing waiver of such term or any other term, and Steader's failure to assert any right or provision under this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision.

20. Agreement to Terms

By listing products or services on Steader, you agree to all terms and conditions outlined in this Agreement and the Steader Terms of Service. You acknowledge your responsibility to maintain high standards of quality, transparency, and customer service while supporting Steader's mission of building a more resilient local food system.

Steader LLC

5900 Balcones Dr, Ste 8330

Austin, Texas 78731

Email Address:

hello@steader.com

Telephone number:

(512) 881-9114

Effective as of March 04, 2025