Terms & Conditions

Design Connect, an innovative initiative by the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH), pioneers a unique online marketplace linking exporters with global design talent. The platform aims to revolutionize handicrafts exports by facilitating manufacturers investments in skilled design interventions and contemporizing product lines for broader market relevance.

Its user-friendly interface enables exporters and designers to upload requirements and skill sets, fostering seamless connections. The platform offers versatile engagement models supporting project-based, flexible, and full-time opportunities. By joining Design Connect, stakeholders contribute to reshaping the Indian export industry through collaboration, innovation, and career growth.

Eligibility & Registration

• Exporters registering on the Portal must be registered members of EPCH holding a valid and active EPCH Membership Number.
• Designers registering on the Portal must possess a valid degree or diploma in design from a recognized institution, university, or educational establishment.
• EPCH reserves the right to verify submitted credentials, membership details, educational qualifications, and supporting documents at any stage.
• EPCH reserves the right to approve, reject, suspend, or terminate any registration without assigning any reason.

Portal Services

The Design Connect Portal may provide services including, but not limited to:

• Design collaboration opportunities
• Interaction between designers and exporters/manufacturers
• Artisan and craft cluster engagement
• Design consultancy opportunities
• Product development support
• Design project listings
• Trend and market information dissemination
• Event, workshop, seminar, and webinar information
• Knowledge resources related to handicrafts and design
• Networking and communication facilities

Role of EPCH

• EPCH acts solely as a facilitator and shall not be responsible for commercial agreements, payments, negotiations, project execution, or disputes between users.
• Users are advised to independently enter into written agreements regarding confidentiality, ownership, licensing, royalties, commercial usage, and other project-related terms.
• EPCH does not guarantee project allocation, business opportunities, commercial engagements, or financial outcomes through the Portal.
• EPCH does not guarantee uninterrupted, error-free, secure, or continuous operation of the Portal.

Limitation of Liability

EPCH shall not be liable for:

• Loss of data
• Business interruption
• Financial loss
• Unauthorized access
• Intellectual property disputes
• Any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the use of the Portal

Users engage and interact with other users entirely at their own discretion and risk.

Amendments to Terms

• EPCH reserves the right to revise, amend, or update these Terms and Conditions at any time without prior notice.
• Updated Terms shall become effective immediately upon publication on the Portal.
• Continued use of the Portal after such modifications shall constitute acceptance of the revised Terms and Conditions.

User Responsibility

• EPCH functions only as a facilitating platform and does not guarantee the authenticity, quality, capability, reliability, or credentials of users registered on the Portal.
• Users are advised to independently verify credentials, capabilities, experience, and commercial terms before entering into any professional engagement or collaboration.
• Opinions, views, portfolios, submissions, and content uploaded by users are solely their own, and EPCH shall not be held responsible for the same.