Small Biz Collective-Community Framework & Standards
Purpose
Small Biz Collective exists to:
• Support local small businesses
• Share knowledge freely and openly
• Reduce gatekeeping in entrepreneurial spaces
• Encourage collaboration over competition
• Provide a safe and respectful space for connection
We believe information strengthens community. Education is not leverage — it is a shared resource.
Participation is voluntary and community-driven.
Role of Facilitators
Small Biz Collective is currently facilitated by:
Jonathan Smith and Carol Smith of Green Magick Apothecary
Our role is to:
• Provide space for connection and shared learning
• Coordinate meetings and communication
• Maintain respectful conduct within the spaces we host
• Uphold the standards outlined below
We are not a governing authority or hierarchical leadership body.
Participants retain full autonomy over their businesses, affiliations, and outside partnerships.
Within meetings or events we facilitate, we are responsible for maintaining respectful and inclusive conduct.
Future Structure
As participation grows and meetings become more established, Small Biz Collective intends to form a rotating advisory board selected from active participants.
The purpose of this board will be to:
• Provide community input
• Assist with planning and structure
• Support accountability and transparency
Details regarding board selection and structure will be communicated as the Collective evolves.
Inclusion & Respect
Small Biz Collective welcomes participants of all identities and backgrounds.
We maintain zero tolerance for:
• Racism
• Homophobia
• Transphobia
• Sexism
• Harassment
• Hate speech
• Discrimination of any kind
LGBTQ+ community members — including trans and nonbinary individuals — are welcome and safeguarded within the spaces we facilitate.
Behavior that compromises the safety, dignity, or inclusion of others may result in removal from meetings or facilitated spaces.
Facilitators reserve the right to enforce these standards to protect the integrity of the space.
Community Standards
Participants agree to:
• Engage respectfully
• Ask questions in good faith
• Share knowledge constructively
• Avoid gossip, defamation, or character attacks
• Address concerns directly when possible
• Respect differing viewpoints without hostility
Questions are welcome. Bad-faith escalation or public character attacks are not.
Conflict Resolution
If a concern arises:
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Direct communication is encouraged when safe and appropriate.
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Facilitators may offer mediation if needed.
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Repeated violation of community standards may result in removal from meetings or facilitated spaces.