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Last Updated: August 1, 2026

This Refund Policy applies to all transactions processed through the SkillForge platform operated by SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd. (CIN: U72200KA2024PTC187890), registered at 91 Springboard, Koramangala, Bangalore 560095, India.

1. Milestone-Based Payment Protection (Escrow)

All payments on SkillForge are processed through our secure escrow system. When a client places an order, the full payment (or milestone payment) is held in escrow by SkillForge and is only released to the freelancer upon the client's explicit approval of the delivered work.

• Funds remain in escrow until each milestone is reviewed and approved by the client.
• Freelancers cannot access escrowed funds until delivery is accepted.
• Both parties are protected throughout the engagement lifecycle.

2. Full Refund Scenarios

• Freelancer fails to deliver within the agreed deadline: If the freelancer does not deliver any work by the project or milestone deadline, and no extension has been mutually agreed upon, the client is entitled to a 100% refund of the escrowed amount for that milestone.
• Project cancelled before freelancer starts work: If a client cancels a project before the freelancer has begun any work (no deliverables submitted, no communication indicating work has commenced), the client will receive a 100% refund of all escrowed funds.
• Duplicate or erroneous payment: If a client is charged twice or an incorrect amount is deducted due to a system error, the excess amount will be refunded in full within 3-5 business days.

3. Partial Refund for Incomplete or Substandard Work

If a freelancer delivers work that is incomplete, substantially deviates from the agreed project brief, or is of demonstrably substandard quality, the client may request a partial refund. Partial refund amounts are determined through SkillForge's mediation process:

• A mediator reviews the project brief, deliverables, and communication history.
• The mediator determines a fair partial refund based on the percentage of work satisfactorily completed.
• Both parties are notified of the decision, which is binding unless escalated to arbitration.

4. No Refund After Final Delivery Approval

Once a client clicks "Approve Delivery" or "Release Payment" for a milestone or final deliverable, the payment is released to the freelancer and no refund is available. Clients are strongly encouraged to thoroughly review all deliverables before approving.

5. Dispute Resolution Process (3-Step)

1. Step 1 — Direct Resolution (48 hours): The client and freelancer are encouraged to resolve the issue directly through the platform's messaging system. Most disputes are resolved at this stage.
2. Step 2 — SkillForge Mediation (5-7 business days): If direct resolution fails, either party may escalate to SkillForge's mediation team. A trained mediator reviews all evidence (briefs, deliverables, messages) and proposes a binding resolution, which may include full refund, partial refund, or payment release.
3. Step 3 — Arbitration (15-30 business days): If either party disagrees with the mediation outcome, they may escalate to binding arbitration conducted in accordance with the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, with the seat of arbitration in Bangalore, India. The arbitrator's decision is final.

6. Refund Timeline

• Credit/Debit Card: 5-7 business days from the date of refund approval.
• SkillForge Wallet: Within 24 hours of refund approval.
• UPI: 3-5 business days from the date of refund approval.
• Net Banking / Bank Transfer: 5-10 business days from the date of refund approval.
• PayPal: 5-7 business days from the date of refund approval.

All refund amounts are in Indian Rupees (₹). If the original payment was made in a foreign currency, the refund will be processed at the prevailing exchange rate at the time of the refund, which may differ from the original payment exchange rate.

7. SkillForge Pro Subscription Refund

• Pro subscriptions (₹1,649/month) may be cancelled at any time.
• If cancelled within 14 days of purchase or renewal, a prorated refund will be issued for the unused portion of the billing period.
• After 14 days, no refund is available, but the subscription benefits continue until the end of the current billing cycle.
• Free trial periods do not incur any charges if cancelled before the trial ends.

8. Chargeback Policy

Filing a chargeback with your bank or payment provider without first attempting resolution through SkillForge's dispute process is a violation of our Terms of Service. Accounts associated with illegitimate chargebacks may be suspended or permanently banned. SkillForge reserves the right to contest any chargeback and provide transaction evidence to the payment provider.

9. Contact Us

For refund requests or questions about this policy, please contact us at:

• Email: support@skillforge.com
• Phone: +91 (80) 4920-7643
• Address: 91 Springboard, Koramangala, Bangalore 560095, India

Last Updated: August 1, 2026

These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your access to and use of the SkillForge platform, operated by SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd. (CIN: U72200KA2024PTC187890), registered at 91 Springboard, Koramangala, Bangalore 560095, India ("Company", "we", "us").

1. Acceptance of Terms

By creating an account, accessing, or using the SkillForge platform (the "Platform"), you agree to be bound by these Terms, our Privacy Policy, Refund Policy, Cookie Policy, and Acceptable Use Policy. If you do not agree to these Terms, you must not use the Platform.

2. Eligibility

• You must be at least 18 years of age to use the Platform.
• You must have the legal capacity to enter into a binding contract.
• If you are using the Platform on behalf of a company or organization, you represent that you have the authority to bind that entity to these Terms.
• Users from jurisdictions where the Platform's services are prohibited by law may not use the Platform.

3. Account Types

SkillForge offers two primary account types:

• Client Account: For individuals or businesses seeking to hire freelancers for projects or services.
• Freelancer Account: For professionals offering their services to clients through the Platform. Freelancers may create service listings ("Gigs"), respond to project postings, and build a professional profile.

Users may operate both a Client and Freelancer account simultaneously. Each user is responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of their account credentials.

4. Service Listing and Ordering Process

• Freelancers may create service listings with clear descriptions, pricing tiers (Basic, Standard, Premium), delivery timelines, and revision policies.
• Clients may browse listings, review freelancer profiles, ratings, and portfolios, and place orders for services.
• Upon placing an order, the client's payment is held in escrow by SkillForge until the work is delivered and approved.
• Freelancers must deliver work within the agreed timeline. Extensions may be mutually agreed upon through the Platform's messaging system.

5. Payment Terms, Escrow System & Fees

• All payments are processed through SkillForge's secure escrow system. Payments are held until the client approves the deliverables.
• Service Fee (Freelancers): SkillForge charges a service fee of 5% to 20% on each transaction, depending on the freelancer's account level and cumulative earnings with a specific client. Pro subscribers benefit from a reduced fee of 5%.
• Processing Fee (Clients): A small payment processing fee (typically 2.5-3.5%) may be applied depending on the payment method used.
• Freelancer payouts are processed weekly (or on-demand for Pro subscribers) via the freelancer's chosen withdrawal method (bank transfer, UPI, PayPal, or SkillForge Wallet).
• All prices and transactions on the Platform are denominated in Indian Rupees (₹) unless otherwise specified.

6. Freelancer Obligations

• Delivery: Freelancers must deliver work that matches the agreed-upon scope, quality standards, and timeline.
• Quality: All deliverables must be original, free from plagiarism, and meet professional standards as described in the service listing.
• Communication: Freelancers must respond to client messages within 24 hours during active projects and maintain professional, respectful communication at all times.
• Accuracy: Freelancers must accurately represent their skills, experience, qualifications, and portfolio work on their profile.

7. Client Obligations

• Clear Briefs: Clients must provide clear, detailed project briefs that include all necessary requirements, reference materials, and expectations.
• Timely Feedback: Clients must review deliverables and provide feedback within 7 days of submission. If no response is received within 14 days, the delivery is automatically approved and payment is released.
• Respectful Conduct: Clients must treat freelancers with respect and professionalism. Harassment, abusive language, or discriminatory behavior is strictly prohibited.

8. Intellectual Property Transfer

Upon full payment and approval of deliverables, all intellectual property rights in the delivered work are transferred from the freelancer to the client, unless otherwise specified in the service listing or a separate written agreement. Freelancers retain the right to display completed work in their portfolio unless the client has purchased a confidentiality add-on.

9. Non-Circumvention

Both clients and freelancers agree not to circumvent the SkillForge platform to avoid paying platform fees. This includes:

• Exchanging personal contact information for the purpose of transacting off-platform.
• Soliciting or accepting direct payments outside of SkillForge for services initially discovered or engaged through the Platform.
• Requesting that work be continued outside the Platform to avoid fees.

Violations of this policy may result in account suspension, permanent ban, and/or legal action. SkillForge monitors communications for potential circumvention.

10. Prohibited Services

The following services are strictly prohibited on SkillForge:

• Academic fraud (writing assignments, dissertations, or exam answers for students)
• Illegal or unlicensed activities
• Services that infringe on third-party intellectual property rights
• Sexually explicit or pornographic content
• Hacking, phishing, or cybersecurity attacks
• Fake reviews, testimonials, or social media engagement
• Counterfeit goods or replica branded items
• Any service that violates applicable Indian law or international regulations

11. Reviews and Ratings

• Both clients and freelancers may leave reviews and ratings after the completion of a project.
• Reviews must be honest, factual, and relevant to the specific transaction.
• SkillForge reserves the right to remove reviews that are fraudulent, defamatory, or violate community guidelines.
• Soliciting or purchasing fake reviews is a bannable offense.

12. Account Termination

SkillForge may suspend or terminate your account at its sole discretion for:

• Violation of these Terms or any related policies.
• Fraudulent or deceptive behavior.
• Repeated poor-quality deliverables or high dispute rates.
• Extended inactivity (accounts inactive for more than 24 months may be archived).

Users may also voluntarily close their account by contacting support. Outstanding payments and escrow balances will be settled before account closure.

13. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by applicable Indian law:

• SkillForge acts as a marketplace platform and is not a party to the contract between clients and freelancers.
• SkillForge is not liable for the quality, accuracy, legality, or timeliness of services provided by freelancers.
• SkillForge's total liability for any claim arising from the use of the Platform shall not exceed the fees paid by you to SkillForge in the 12 months preceding the claim.
• SkillForge shall not be liable for indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages.

14. Dispute Resolution

Any dispute arising out of or in connection with these Terms shall be resolved through:

1. Good-faith negotiation between the parties (30 days).
2. Mediation administered by SkillForge's internal dispute resolution team.
3. Binding arbitration under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, with the seat of arbitration in Bangalore, India.

15. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of India. The courts of Bangalore, Karnataka shall have exclusive jurisdiction over any proceedings arising out of these Terms.

16. DPDP Act Compliance

SkillForge complies with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDP Act) of India. We process personal data only for lawful purposes, with informed consent, and implement reasonable security safeguards. Users have the right to access, correct, and erase their personal data as provided under the DPDP Act. For details, please refer to our Privacy Policy.

17. Changes to Terms

SkillForge reserves the right to modify these Terms at any time. Users will be notified of material changes via email or in-platform notification at least 30 days before the changes take effect. Continued use of the Platform after the effective date constitutes acceptance of the revised Terms.

18. Contact

For questions about these Terms, contact us at:

• Email: legal@skillforge.com
• Phone: +91 (80) 4920-7643
• Address: SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd., 91 Springboard, Koramangala, Bangalore 560095, India

Last Updated: August 1, 2026

This Privacy Policy describes how SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd. (CIN: U72200KA2024PTC187890), registered at 91 Springboard, Koramangala, Bangalore 560095, India ("SkillForge", "we", "us") collects, uses, shares, and protects your personal data when you use the SkillForge platform.

1. Data We Collect

We collect the following categories of personal data:

• Personal Information: Full name, email address, phone number, date of birth, government-issued ID (for KYC verification), postal address.
• Professional Portfolio: Skills, work samples, education, certifications, employment history, profile photo, bio, and service listings.
• Payment Information: Bank account details, UPI ID, PayPal email, billing address, transaction history, and invoices. Payment card details are processed by our PCI-DSS compliant payment processor and are never stored on SkillForge servers.
• Communication Logs: Messages exchanged between clients and freelancers on the Platform, support tickets, and chat transcripts.
• Technical Data: IP address, browser type and version, device identifiers, operating system, referral URLs, pages visited, time spent on pages, and click patterns.
• Usage Data: Search queries, service categories browsed, orders placed, reviews submitted, and platform interaction patterns.

2. Purpose of Data Use

We use your personal data for the following purposes:

• To create and maintain your account, and verify your identity.
• To facilitate transactions between clients and freelancers, including escrow payments.
• To match clients with suitable freelancers based on skills, ratings, and availability.
• To process payments, issue invoices, and manage refunds.
• To send transactional communications (order updates, payment confirmations, delivery notifications).
• To send marketing communications (with your consent) about new features, promotions, and platform updates.
• To improve the Platform through analytics, A/B testing, and user research.
• To detect and prevent fraud, abuse, and security threats.
• To comply with legal obligations, including tax reporting and regulatory requirements.
• To resolve disputes and enforce our Terms of Service.

3. Freelancer Profile Visibility

Freelancer profiles (including name, profile photo, bio, skills, portfolio, ratings, and service listings) are publicly visible to all Platform users and may be indexed by search engines. Freelancers may control the visibility of certain profile elements through their account settings. Completed project details may be displayed on the freelancer's profile unless the client has purchased a confidentiality add-on.

4. Third-Party Sharing

We may share your personal data with the following third parties:

• Payment Processors: Razorpay, PayPal, Stripe, and banking partners to process transactions, payouts, and refunds.
• Analytics Providers: Google Analytics, Mixpanel, and Hotjar to understand Platform usage and improve user experience.
• Cloud Infrastructure: AWS (Amazon Web Services) and Google Cloud for hosting, data storage, and content delivery.
• Communication Tools: SendGrid and Twilio for email notifications and SMS alerts.
• Legal and Regulatory: Law enforcement agencies, courts, or regulators when required by law, court order, or to protect our legal rights.
• Business Transfers: In the event of a merger, acquisition, or sale of assets, user data may be transferred to the acquiring entity.

We do not sell your personal data to third parties for marketing purposes.

5. Data Security

We implement robust technical and organizational security measures to protect your personal data, including:

• 256-bit SSL/TLS encryption for all data in transit.
• AES-256 encryption for sensitive data at rest.
• PCI DSS Level 1 compliance for payment processing.
• Regular security audits and penetration testing.
• Multi-factor authentication (MFA) for account access.
• Role-based access control for internal systems.
• SOC 2 Type II certified infrastructure.

6. Your Rights Under the DPDP Act, 2023

Under India's Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, you have the following rights:

• Right to Access: You may request a summary of your personal data and the processing activities associated with it.
• Right to Correction: You may request correction of inaccurate or incomplete personal data.
• Right to Erasure: You may request deletion of your personal data, subject to legal retention requirements.
• Right to Grievance Redressal: You may raise a grievance with our Data Protection Officer or the Data Protection Board of India.
• Right to Nominate: You may nominate another individual to exercise your data rights in case of your death or incapacity.

To exercise any of these rights, please contact our Data Protection Officer at dpo@skillforge.com.

7. Cookies

SkillForge uses cookies and similar tracking technologies to enhance your experience. For detailed information about the cookies we use and how to manage them, please refer to our Cookie Policy.

8. Data Retention

• Active accounts: Data is retained for as long as your account is active.
• Closed accounts: Account data is retained for 5 years after closure to comply with tax, legal, and regulatory requirements.
• Transaction records: Financial records are retained for 8 years as required by Indian tax law.
• Communication logs: Messages are retained for 3 years after the last activity on the related project.
• Analytics data: Anonymized and aggregated analytics data may be retained indefinitely.

9. International Data Flows

SkillForge operates globally and your data may be processed in countries other than India. When transferring data internationally, we ensure appropriate safeguards are in place, including:

• Standard Contractual Clauses (SCCs) with data processors.
• Compliance with the DPDP Act provisions on cross-border data transfer.
• Data processing agreements with all third-party processors.

10. Children's Privacy

SkillForge is not intended for individuals under the age of 18. We do not knowingly collect personal data from children. If we become aware that a child has provided us with personal data, we will take steps to delete such data immediately.

11. Contact the Data Protection Officer

For any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy or your personal data, please contact:

• Data Protection Officer
• Email: dpo@skillforge.com
• Phone: +91 (80) 4920-7643
• Address: SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd., 91 Springboard, Koramangala, Bangalore 560095, India

Last Updated: August 1, 2026

This Cookie Policy explains how SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd. (CIN: U72200KA2024PTC187890) uses cookies and similar tracking technologies when you visit or use the SkillForge platform.

1. What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small text files placed on your device (computer, smartphone, or tablet) when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently, provide analytics information, and enable personalization.

2. Essential Cookies

These cookies are strictly necessary for the Platform to function and cannot be switched off. They are usually set in response to actions you take, such as logging in, setting preferences, or filling forms.

• session_id — Maintains your login session. Duration: Session.
• csrf_token — Prevents cross-site request forgery attacks. Duration: Session.
• cookie_consent — Stores your cookie consent preferences. Duration: 12 months.
• locale — Stores your language and currency preferences. Duration: 12 months.

3. Functional Cookies

These cookies enable enhanced functionality and personalization, such as remembering your preferences, recent searches, and display settings.

• recent_searches — Stores your recent search queries for quick access. Duration: 30 days.
• view_mode — Remembers your preferred view (grid/list) for search results. Duration: 12 months.
• chat_state — Remembers the state of the live chat widget. Duration: Session.

4. Analytics Cookies

These cookies help us understand how visitors interact with the Platform by collecting information anonymously. This data is used to improve the Platform's functionality and user experience.

• Google Analytics (_ga, _gid, _gat) — Tracks page views, user sessions, and traffic sources. Duration: Up to 24 months. Provider: Google LLC.
• Mixpanel (mp_*) — Tracks user events and feature usage for product analytics. Duration: 12 months. Provider: Mixpanel Inc.
• Hotjar (_hj*) — Records anonymized user interactions (heatmaps, session recordings) to identify UX issues. Duration: 12 months. Provider: Hotjar Ltd.

5. Advertising Cookies

These cookies are used to deliver relevant advertisements and measure the effectiveness of our marketing campaigns. They may be set by us or by third-party advertising partners.

• Facebook Pixel (_fbp) — Tracks conversions from Facebook/Instagram ads and enables retargeting. Duration: 90 days. Provider: Meta Platforms Inc.
• Google Ads (IDE, NID) — Tracks conversions from Google Ads campaigns and enables remarketing. Duration: Up to 24 months. Provider: Google LLC.
• LinkedIn Insight (li_sugr, bcookie) — Tracks conversions from LinkedIn ads for B2B marketing. Duration: Up to 24 months. Provider: LinkedIn Corporation.

6. Managing Cookies

You can control and manage cookies in several ways:

• Browser Settings: Most browsers allow you to block or delete cookies through the browser settings menu. Note that blocking essential cookies may impair Platform functionality.
• Cookie Consent Banner: When you first visit SkillForge, you can choose to accept all cookies or decline non-essential cookies via our consent banner.
• Opt-Out Links:
  • Google Analytics: Google Analytics Opt-Out
  • Facebook: Facebook Ad Preferences

7. Third-Party Cookie List

The following third parties may set cookies when you use the SkillForge platform:

• Google LLC (Analytics, Ads, reCAPTCHA)
• Meta Platforms Inc. (Facebook Pixel)
• Mixpanel Inc. (Product Analytics)
• Hotjar Ltd. (User Experience Analytics)
• LinkedIn Corporation (Advertising)
• Razorpay (Payment Processing)
• Stripe Inc. (Payment Processing)
• Cloudflare Inc. (Security and CDN)

8. Updates to This Policy

We may update this Cookie Policy from time to time. Changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Last Updated" date. We encourage you to review this policy periodically.

9. Contact Us

For questions about our use of cookies, please contact:

• Email: privacy@skillforge.com
• Address: SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd., 91 Springboard, Koramangala, Bangalore 560095, India

Last Updated: August 1, 2026

This Acceptable Use Policy ("AUP") sets forth the rules and guidelines for using the SkillForge platform, operated by SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd. (CIN: U72200KA2024PTC187890). All users (clients and freelancers) must comply with this AUP at all times.

1. Prohibited Content and Services

The following content and services are strictly prohibited on the SkillForge platform:

• Illegal Activities: Any service or content that violates applicable Indian law, international law, or the laws of the user's jurisdiction.
• Academic Dishonesty: Writing essays, dissertations, assignments, or exam answers intended to be submitted by another person as their own work.
• Intellectual Property Infringement: Creating, distributing, or selling content that infringes on third-party copyrights, trademarks, patents, or trade secrets.
• Harmful Software: Creating, distributing, or deploying malware, viruses, ransomware, spyware, phishing tools, or any software intended to cause harm.
• Explicit Content: Pornographic, sexually explicit, or obscene content. This includes NSFW artwork, adult entertainment services, and escort services.
• Hate Speech and Discrimination: Content or services that promote hatred, violence, or discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected characteristic.
• Weapons and Controlled Substances: Services related to the manufacture, sale, or distribution of weapons, explosives, drugs, or controlled substances.
• Fake Engagement: Services offering fake social media followers, likes, reviews, testimonials, or any form of artificial engagement.
• Gambling and Betting: Unlicensed gambling, betting, or lottery services.
• Impersonation: Services designed to impersonate individuals, organizations, or government entities.
• Spam and Unsolicited Communication: Services that involve sending spam, unsolicited bulk messages, or creating tools for such purposes.

2. Anti-Fraud Measures

SkillForge takes fraud prevention seriously. The following activities constitute fraud and are strictly prohibited:

• Fake Accounts: Creating multiple accounts to manipulate the platform, circumvent bans, or artificially inflate ratings.
• Shill Bidding: Using alternate accounts or accomplices to place fake orders or leave fraudulent reviews.
• Payment Fraud: Using stolen credit cards, unauthorized payment methods, or engaging in money laundering through the Platform.
• Identity Fraud: Misrepresenting your identity, qualifications, portfolio, or work history on your profile.
• Fee Circumvention: Attempting to complete transactions off-platform to avoid SkillForge service fees after initial contact was made through the Platform.
• Collusion: Conspiring with other users to manipulate search rankings, ratings, or dispute outcomes.

SkillForge employs automated fraud detection systems and manual review processes to identify and prevent fraudulent activity.

3. Account Integrity

To maintain the integrity of the SkillForge ecosystem, all users must:

• Provide accurate, truthful, and up-to-date information in their profile and communications.
• Use only one active account per person (unless explicitly authorized by SkillForge for business accounts).
• Not share account credentials with any third party.
• Complete KYC verification when requested to confirm identity.
• Report any suspicious activity, policy violations, or security concerns to SkillForge immediately via trust@skillforge.com.
• Not manipulate search algorithms, artificially boost profile visibility, or game the rating system.
• Not use automated bots, scrapers, or similar tools to interact with the Platform without prior written authorization.

4. Communication Standards

All communication on the Platform must be:

• Professional, respectful, and relevant to the project or inquiry at hand.
• Free from harassment, threats, bullying, or intimidation.
• Free from unsolicited promotional content, spam, or external links unrelated to the project.
• Conducted within the Platform's messaging system for project-related discussions (to ensure dispute resolution records are available).

5. Consequences of Violations

Violations of this Acceptable Use Policy may result in the following actions, at SkillForge's sole discretion:

• Warning: A formal warning issued to the user's account for minor or first-time violations.
• Content Removal: Removal of offending service listings, portfolio items, reviews, or messages.
• Temporary Suspension: Account suspension for a period of 7 to 90 days, depending on the severity of the violation.
• Permanent Ban: Permanent removal from the Platform for severe or repeated violations, including forfeiture of any pending earnings (subject to legal review).
• Legal Action: For violations that constitute criminal activity or cause significant harm, SkillForge reserves the right to report the user to law enforcement and pursue legal remedies.
• Financial Penalties: In cases of fee circumvention or fraud, SkillForge may charge a penalty equal to the fees that would have been owed, plus an administrative surcharge of up to ₹25,000.

Users may appeal account actions by contacting appeals@skillforge.com within 30 days of the action. Appeals are reviewed by a senior trust and safety officer within 10 business days.

6. Reporting Violations

If you encounter content or behavior that violates this AUP, please report it immediately:

• Use the "Report" button available on all profiles, service listings, and messages.
• Email: trust@skillforge.com
• All reports are reviewed within 48 hours and handled confidentially.

7. Changes to This Policy

SkillForge reserves the right to update this Acceptable Use Policy at any time. Material changes will be communicated via email or in-platform notification. Continued use of the Platform after changes take effect constitutes acceptance of the updated AUP.

Who We Are

SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd. is India's leading digital services and freelance marketplace, connecting businesses of every size with vetted, world-class freelance talent across design, development, marketing, writing, video, and more.

Founded in 2023 in Bengaluru, Karnataka, SkillForge was built on a simple belief: exceptional talent exists everywhere, and technology can bridge the gap between opportunity and expertise.

Our Mission

"To empower freelancers and businesses worldwide with seamless, secure project collaboration."

Our Vision

To become the world's most trusted digital services marketplace where every professional can build a thriving career and every business can find the right talent — instantly, affordably, and with confidence.

Our Story

SkillForge began in a co-working space in Koramangala, Bengaluru, when a small team of engineers and designers experienced firsthand the challenges of finding reliable freelance talent. The existing platforms were cluttered, communication was fragmented, and payment security was an afterthought. They set out to build something better.

In our first year, we onboarded 100 carefully vetted freelancers and focused relentlessly on quality — every profile reviewed, every deliverable backed by escrow protection. Word spread quickly. By 2024, we had grown to 50,000 freelancers across 45 countries and secured seed funding from leading technology investors to accelerate our platform development.

The launch of SkillForge Pro in early 2025 marked our evolution from a simple marketplace to a comprehensive professional ecosystem. Pro members gained access to reduced fees, priority matching, advanced analytics, and skill assessments — tools that helped top freelancers earn 3x more than the platform average. By mid-2025, we had crossed 200,000 registered freelancers.

Today, SkillForge is home to over 500,000 freelancers from 190+ countries, powering more than 2 million completed projects. Our platform processes millions of rupees in secure payments every month, with a 98% client satisfaction rate and an average dispute resolution time under 3 days. We are just getting started.

Key Milestones

• 2023: Founded in Bengaluru. Onboarded first 100 vetted freelancers. Launched escrow payment system.
• 2024: Grew to 50,000 freelancers across 45 countries. Secured seed funding. Launched enterprise solutions.
• 2025: Crossed 200,000 freelancers. Launched SkillForge Pro subscription. Expanded to 150+ countries.
• 2026: Surpassed 500,000+ freelancers and 2 million completed projects. Launched AI-powered talent matching. Expanded enterprise and white-label solutions.

Leadership Team

• Arjun Krishnamurthy — Co-Founder & CEO: Former VP of Product at a leading Indian SaaS unicorn. IIT Bombay alumnus with 15+ years in technology and marketplace platforms. Arjun drives SkillForge's vision of democratizing access to talent and opportunity globally.
• Priya Sharma — Co-Founder & CTO: Ex-Amazon and Flipkart engineering leader. IISc Bangalore, M.Tech in Computer Science. Priya architects SkillForge's scalable infrastructure, AI-powered matching algorithms, and real-time collaboration tools that handle millions of transactions securely.
• Rohan Desai — VP of Product: Previously led product at a top freelancing platform. IIM Ahmedabad MBA. Rohan oversees the end-to-end product experience, from freelancer onboarding and search to escrow payments and dispute resolution, ensuring every interaction is intuitive and trustworthy.
• Meera Iyer — Chief Financial Officer (CFO): Chartered Accountant with 12+ years of experience in fintech and startup finance. Previously at a leading payment gateway. Meera manages SkillForge's financial operations, compliance, investor relations, and payment infrastructure, ensuring regulatory adherence across all markets.

Our Values

• Trust: Every transaction is protected by escrow. Every freelancer is vetted. We earn trust through transparency and action.
• Quality: We believe in quality over quantity. Our review systems, skill assessments, and rating algorithms surface the best talent consistently.
• Innovation: From AI-powered matching to real-time collaboration, we continuously invest in technology that makes freelancing seamless.
• Inclusivity: Talent has no geography, gender, or background. SkillForge is designed to give everyone an equal opportunity to succeed.
• Transparency: Clear pricing, honest communication, and open policies. No hidden fees, no surprises.
• Growth: We grow when our users grow. Our success is measured by the careers built and businesses scaled on our platform.

Company Details

• Registered Name: SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd.
• CIN: U72200KA2024PTC187890
• GSTIN: 29AABCS5678G1Z8
• Registered Office: 91 Springboard, 4th Floor, Koramangala 5th Block, Bangalore 560095, Karnataka, India
• Employees: 350+
• Investors: Backed by leading technology investors
• Email: hello@skillforge.com
• Phone: +91 80 4920 7643

Get in Touch

We'd love to hear from you. Whether you have a question about the platform, need help with a project, or want to explore a partnership, our team is ready to assist.

Customer Support

• Email: support@skillforge.com
• Phone: +91 80 4920 7643
• WhatsApp: +91 98765 67890
• Live Chat: Available 24/7 via the chat widget on this page

Support Hours

• Phone & Email: Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM IST
• Live Chat: 24/7, including holidays

Response Times

• Live Chat: Under 1 minute (average)
• Email: Within 4 hours during business hours
• Phone: Immediate during support hours
• WhatsApp: Within 30 minutes during business hours

Corporate Office

SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd.
91 Springboard Business Hub, 4th Floor,
Koramangala 5th Block,
Bangalore 560095, Karnataka, India

Department-Specific Contacts

• Enterprise Solutions: enterprise@skillforge.com
• Press & Media: press@skillforge.com
• Partnerships: partners@skillforge.com
• Careers: careers@skillforge.com
• Grievances: grievance@skillforge.com

Connect With Us

Last Updated: August 1, 2026

This Service Delivery Policy governs how projects and services are delivered on the SkillForge platform, operated by SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd. (CIN: U72200KA2024PTC187890). As a digital services marketplace, SkillForge facilitates the delivery of intangible professional services (not physical goods). This policy is the equivalent of a shipping/delivery policy for our services-based platform.

1. Project Delivery Timelines

Delivery timelines are set by the freelancer and agreed upon by the client at the time of order placement. Each service listing specifies an estimated delivery time (in days) for each pricing tier (Basic, Standard, Premium). The delivery countdown begins when the freelancer accepts the order and all necessary project requirements have been submitted by the client.

• Freelancers are expected to deliver work on or before the agreed deadline.
• Timelines may vary from 1 day to 90+ days depending on project complexity.
• Custom orders may have individually negotiated timelines documented in the order agreement.

2. Milestone-Based Delivery

For larger projects, SkillForge supports milestone-based delivery:

• Projects can be divided into multiple milestones, each with its own deliverable, deadline, and payment amount.
• Payment for each milestone is held in escrow and released only upon client approval of that milestone's deliverable.
• Milestones must be completed sequentially unless otherwise agreed.
• Each milestone has its own review and revision cycle.

3. File Delivery

• All deliverables must be uploaded and transmitted through the SkillForge platform. Off-platform file transfers (email, personal cloud links, etc.) are strongly discouraged and void SkillForge's delivery guarantees.
• Supported file formats include but are not limited to: PDF, PSD, AI, DOCX, XLSX, ZIP, RAR, MP4, MOV, MP3, PNG, JPG, SVG, FIGMA, SKETCH, and source code archives.
• Maximum file size per upload: 2 GB. For larger files, freelancers may split into multiple uploads.
• All uploaded files are stored securely with AES-256 encryption and are accessible to both parties for 90 days after project completion.

4. Revision Policy

Each service listing specifies the number of revisions included in each pricing tier:

• Basic Tier: Typically 1-2 revisions included.
• Standard Tier: Typically 3-5 revisions included.
• Premium Tier: Typically unlimited revisions or a higher number as specified.

Additional revisions beyond the included amount may be purchased at a rate specified by the freelancer. A "revision" is defined as a modification request that does not substantially change the original project scope or brief.

5. Late Delivery Handling

• If a freelancer anticipates missing a deadline, they may submit a delivery extension request through the platform, specifying the new proposed deadline and reason.
• The client has 24 hours to accept or reject the extension request.
• If the client does not respond within 24 hours, the extension is automatically approved.
• If a freelancer delivers late without an approved extension, the client may: (a) accept the delivery, (b) request a partial refund, or (c) cancel the order for a full refund.
• Repeated late deliveries impact the freelancer's on-time delivery rating and may result in search ranking penalties.

6. Quality Review Process

SkillForge implements a multi-layer quality assurance process:

• All freelancers undergo portfolio review and skill assessment during onboarding.
• Client ratings and reviews are publicly displayed and factor into search rankings.
• SkillForge's Trust & Safety team conducts random quality audits on completed projects.
• Freelancers with consistently low ratings (below 3.5/5.0) receive quality improvement notices and may face account restrictions.

7. Delivery Acceptance

• When a freelancer marks an order as delivered, the client receives a notification to review the deliverables.
• The client has 3 calendar days to review and either: (a) approve the delivery, (b) request a revision (if revisions remain), or (c) reject and raise a dispute.
• If the client does not respond within 3 days, the delivery is automatically accepted and payment is released to the freelancer.
• Automatic acceptance protects freelancers from indefinite payment delays.

8. Source File Delivery

• Source file delivery (editable, layered, or raw project files) is specified at the listing level by the freelancer.
• If a pricing tier includes source files, the freelancer is contractually obligated to deliver them.
• Source files remain the intellectual property of the client upon payment release, unless otherwise specified in the order agreement.
• Common source files include: PSD, AI, INDD, FIGMA, XD files (design), GitHub repos or ZIP archives (development), DOCX/Google Docs (writing).

9. Communication During Project

• All project-related communication must occur through SkillForge's in-platform messaging system.
• The messaging system supports text, file attachments, screenshots, and screen recordings.
• Communication records are preserved and may be used as evidence in dispute resolution.
• Freelancers are expected to respond to client messages within 24 hours during their working days.
• Taking communication off-platform (personal email, WhatsApp, etc.) voids SkillForge's dispute resolution and payment protection guarantees.

10. Project Extensions

Either party may request a project extension through the order dashboard:

• Navigate to Project Dashboard → Request Extension.
• Specify the new proposed deadline and provide a brief reason.
• The other party must approve the extension within 24 hours.
• Approved extensions update the official delivery deadline. All guarantees and policies apply to the new deadline.
• Extensions do not incur additional charges unless the scope of work changes.

11. Incomplete Delivery Dispute Process

If a client believes the delivery is incomplete or does not match the project brief:

1. Request Revision: If revisions remain, the client should submit a detailed revision request through the order page.
2. Raise a Dispute: If revisions are exhausted or the issue is fundamental, the client may raise a dispute via Project Dashboard → Raise Dispute.
3. Mediation: SkillForge's mediation team reviews the project brief, deliverables, communication history, and any evidence submitted by both parties. A resolution (full refund, partial refund, revision order, or delivery acceptance) is issued within 5-7 business days.
4. Arbitration: If either party disagrees with the mediation outcome, they may escalate to binding arbitration (fee: ₹4,999) for a final resolution.

12. Contact

For questions about this Service Delivery Policy, please contact us at support@skillforge.com or +91 80 4920 7643.

For Clients

For Freelancers

Payments

Account

Disputes

Last Updated: August 1, 2026

In compliance with the Information Technology Act, 2000, the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, and the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd. has appointed a Grievance Officer to address user complaints and concerns.

Grievance Officer

• Name: Mr. Vikram Mehta
• Designation: Chief Grievance Officer & Compliance Head
• Email: grievance@skillforge.com
• Phone: +91 80 4920 7644
• Address: 91 Springboard, 4th Floor, Koramangala 5th Block, Bangalore 560095, Karnataka, India
• Working Hours: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM IST (excluding public holidays)

Acknowledgment & Resolution Timeline

• Acknowledgment: All grievances will be acknowledged within 24 hours of receipt via email.
• Resolution: Grievances will be resolved within 15 days from the date of receipt.
• Complex Cases: For grievances requiring detailed investigation (fraud, multi-party disputes, legal matters), resolution may take up to 30 days. The complainant will be informed of the extended timeline with reasons.

How to File a Grievance

1. Email: Send your grievance to grievance@skillforge.com with the subject line "Grievance — [Brief Description]."
2. Include: Your full name, registered email address, account ID (if applicable), a detailed description of the issue, relevant order/transaction IDs, and any supporting documentation.
3. In-Platform: Navigate to Help → File a Grievance from your SkillForge dashboard.
4. Post: Send a written grievance by post to the Grievance Officer at the address above.

A unique grievance reference number will be provided in the acknowledgment email for tracking purposes.

Escalation Matrix

If your concern is not resolved satisfactorily, you may escalate through the following levels:

1. Level 1 — Customer Support: Contact support@skillforge.com or use the live chat for initial resolution. Response time: 4 hours. Most issues are resolved at this level.
2. Level 2 — Grievance Officer: If Level 1 does not resolve your issue within 48 hours, escalate to the Grievance Officer at grievance@skillforge.com. Resolution: 15 days.
3. Level 3 — Nodal Officer: If the Grievance Officer's resolution is unsatisfactory, escalate to the Nodal Officer.
   • Name: Ms. Ananya Rao
   • Designation: Nodal Officer & Head of Legal
   • Email: nodal@skillforge.com
   • Phone: +91 80 4920 7645
   The Nodal Officer will review the case independently and issue a final decision within 15 days.
4. Level 4 — External Remedies: If all internal channels are exhausted, you may approach:
   • National Consumer Helpline: 1800-11-4000 (toll-free) or consumerhelpline.gov.in
   • Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum: File a complaint under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 at the appropriate District, State, or National Consumer Commission.
   • Arbitration: Disputes may be referred to binding arbitration under the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996, with the seat of arbitration in Bangalore, Karnataka.

Legal Compliance

This grievance redressal mechanism is established in compliance with:

• Section 79 of the Information Technology Act, 2000
• Rule 3(2) of the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021
• Consumer Protection Act, 2019
• Consumer Protection (E-Commerce) Rules, 2020

Data Protection

All grievance communications are handled with strict confidentiality. Personal data shared during the grievance process is used solely for investigation and resolution purposes, in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Last Updated: August 1, 2026

This Cancellation Policy outlines the terms and conditions for cancelling orders, projects, and subscriptions on the SkillForge platform, operated by SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd. (CIN: U72200KA2024PTC187890).

1. Client Cancellation Before Freelancer Starts

If a client cancels an order before the freelancer has commenced any work (no deliverables submitted, no messages indicating work has begun):

• The client receives a full refund minus a 5% processing fee (to cover payment gateway charges).
• The refund is processed to the original payment method within 5-7 business days.
• No impact on the client's or freelancer's account standing or ratings.

2. Client Cancellation During an Active Project

If a client cancels after the freelancer has begun work:

• A partial refund is issued based on the percentage of milestones completed and approved.
• For milestone-based projects: completed and approved milestones are paid to the freelancer; remaining milestones are refunded to the client (minus 5% processing fee).
• For non-milestone projects: SkillForge's mediation team assesses the percentage of work completed and determines a fair split.
• The freelancer retains payment for verifiably completed work.

3. Client Cancellation After Delivery

Once a freelancer has submitted the final delivery:

• No cancellation or refund is available if the client has approved the delivery.
• If the delivery is pending review (within the 3-day review period), the client may reject the delivery and raise a dispute instead of cancelling. See our Refund Policy for dispute-based refund terms.

4. Freelancer Cancellation

If a freelancer cancels an accepted order:

• The client receives a 100% full refund of all escrowed funds (no processing fee deducted).
• The freelancer's order completion rate is negatively impacted, which affects search ranking and eligibility for badges (Top Rated, Rising Talent).
• Repeated freelancer cancellations (more than 3 in a 30-day period) may result in account warnings or temporary suspension.
• Cancellation reasons are recorded and reviewed by the Trust & Safety team.

5. Mutual Cancellation

If both parties agree to cancel an order:

• Either party initiates a Mutual Cancellation Request through the Project Dashboard.
• The other party has 48 hours to accept the mutual cancellation.
• Upon acceptance: the client receives a full refund of all escrowed funds (no processing fee).
• Mutual cancellations have no negative impact on either party's ratings or account standing.

6. How to Cancel

1. Navigate to your Project Dashboard.
2. Select the active order you wish to cancel.
3. Click "Cancel Order" or "Request Mutual Cancellation."
4. Select a cancellation reason and provide additional details if applicable.
5. Confirm the cancellation. You will receive a confirmation email with refund details.

7. SkillForge Pro Subscription Cancellation

• Cancel anytime: You may cancel your Pro subscription at any time from Settings → Subscription → Cancel Plan.
• Within 14 days of purchase/renewal: You receive a prorated refund for the unused portion of the billing period.
• After 14 days: No refund is issued, but your Pro benefits continue until the end of the current billing cycle.
• Annual plans: If you cancel an annual plan (₹14,999/year) within 14 days, you receive a prorated refund. After 14 days, your Pro benefits remain active until the annual cycle ends.
• Auto-renewal: Subscriptions auto-renew unless cancelled. You will receive a reminder email 7 days before renewal.

8. Impact on Ratings and Account Standing

• Client-initiated cancellation (before work starts): No impact on either party.
• Client-initiated cancellation (during project): No impact on client; freelancer's completion rate may be affected if the cancellation is due to freelancer non-performance.
• Freelancer cancellation: Negative impact on freelancer's order completion rate and search ranking.
• Mutual cancellation: No impact on either party.
• Dispute-based cancellation: The party found at fault may receive a warning or rating impact based on mediation findings.

9. Force Majeure Cancellations

In cases of force majeure events (natural disasters, pandemics, government-imposed restrictions, internet outages, or other events beyond reasonable control), either party may request a cancellation without penalty. Supporting documentation may be required. SkillForge will assess each case individually and issue a fair resolution, which typically includes a full refund to the client with no negative impact on the freelancer.

10. Automatic Cancellation

• If a freelancer does not respond to or accept an order within 48 hours, the order is automatically cancelled and the client receives a full refund.
• If a freelancer accepts an order but provides no communication or deliverables for 7 consecutive days without an approved extension, the client may trigger automatic cancellation with a full refund.

11. Contact

For cancellation-related queries, please contact support@skillforge.com or use the live chat on our platform.

Last Updated: August 1, 2026

This page provides a comprehensive description of all services available on the SkillForge platform and the associated pricing structure. SkillForge is operated by SkillForge Global Pvt. Ltd. (CIN: U72200KA2024PTC187890).

1. Platform Overview

SkillForge is a digital services marketplace that connects clients (businesses and individuals) with freelance professionals. The platform facilitates the entire project lifecycle: discovery, hiring, communication, milestone management, payment processing, and dispute resolution.

2. Service Categories

SkillForge offers freelance services across the following major categories:

• Design: Logo Design, Brand Identity, UI/UX Design, Web Design, Illustration, Packaging Design, Infographics, Social Media Graphics, Presentation Design, Print Design
• Development: Web Development (WordPress, React, Angular, Vue, Next.js), Mobile App Development (iOS, Android, Flutter, React Native), Backend Development (Node.js, Python, Java, PHP), E-commerce (Shopify, WooCommerce, Magento), API Development, DevOps, Database Administration
• Marketing: SEO (On-page, Off-page, Technical), Social Media Marketing, PPC/Google Ads, Email Marketing, Content Marketing, Influencer Marketing, Marketing Strategy, Analytics & Reporting
• Writing: Content Writing, Copywriting, Blog Writing, Technical Writing, Academic Writing, Translation & Localization, Proofreading & Editing, Ghostwriting, Resume/CV Writing
• Video & Animation: Video Editing, Motion Graphics, 2D/3D Animation, Whiteboard Animation, Explainer Videos, YouTube Video Editing, Video Production, Subtitling & Captioning
• Music & Audio: Music Production, Voiceover, Audio Editing, Podcast Production, Sound Design, Jingles & Intros, Mixing & Mastering, Songwriting
• Business: Virtual Assistant, Data Entry, Project Management, Business Consulting, Financial Consulting, Legal Consulting, Market Research, Business Plans, Transcription

3. Pricing Model

SkillForge operates a marketplace model where freelancers set their own prices. The platform facilitates the transaction and charges service fees to both parties. Pricing varies based on:

• Freelancer experience, ratings, and expertise level
• Project complexity, scope, and delivery timeline
• Service tier selected (Basic, Standard, or Premium)
• Number of revisions included
• Whether source files are included

4. Freelancer Service Fee Structure

SkillForge charges a tiered service fee on freelancer earnings:

• 20% on the first ₹4,15,000 of lifetime billings with a single client
• 10% on lifetime billings between ₹4,15,000 and ₹41,50,000 with a single client
• 5% on lifetime billings exceeding ₹41,50,000 with a single client

This tiered structure rewards long-term client relationships with lower fees. Fees are automatically deducted when payment is released from escrow.

5. Client Service Fee

• Clients pay a 5% service fee on the total project value at the time of payment.
• This fee is capped at ₹8,300 per project (approximately $100 USD), making large projects more cost-effective.
• The client service fee covers: escrow protection, platform infrastructure, customer support, and dispute resolution services.

6. SkillForge Pro Subscription

SkillForge Pro is a premium membership for freelancers and clients who want enhanced features:

• Monthly Plan: ₹1,649/month (auto-renewing)
• Annual Plan: ₹14,999/year (save 24% compared to monthly)

Pro Benefits include:

• Reduced Service Fees: Flat 5% fee on all earnings (vs. 20%/10%/5% tiered structure)
• Priority Support: Dedicated support queue with 1-hour response time
• Featured Profile: Boosted visibility in search results and category pages
• Advanced Analytics: Detailed earnings reports, traffic analytics, and conversion insights
• Skill Assessments: Access to verified skill badges through platform-administered tests
• Priority Matching: First access to new project postings matching your skills
• Custom Offers: Ability to send unlimited custom proposals to clients
• Profile Insights: See who viewed your profile and service listings

7. Enterprise Plan

For organizations with ongoing freelance needs, SkillForge offers custom Enterprise plans:

• Pricing: Custom pricing based on team size and expected volume
• Dedicated Account Manager: A single point of contact for all hiring needs
• Pre-Vetted Talent Pool: Access to an exclusive pool of top-rated freelancers screened for enterprise projects
• SLA Guarantees: Guaranteed response times, delivery timelines, and quality benchmarks
• Consolidated Billing: Single monthly invoice for all projects
• Custom Workflows: Tailored approval processes, NDAs, and project templates
• API Access: Integrate SkillForge into your existing tools and workflows
• Contact: enterprise@skillforge.com

8. Payment Escrow

All payments on SkillForge are processed through a secure escrow system:

• Client pays at the time of order placement.
• Funds are held in a secure, RBI-compliant escrow account managed by SkillForge.
• Funds are released to the freelancer only when the client approves the delivery or the 3-day auto-acceptance period expires.
• This ensures both parties are protected throughout the transaction.

9. Dispute Resolution Pricing

• Direct Resolution (Step 1): Free — parties resolve directly via messaging.
• SkillForge Mediation (Step 2): Free — trained mediator reviews and resolves.
• Binding Arbitration (Step 3): ₹4,999 filing fee — professional arbitrator issues final, binding decision.

10. Gift Credits

SkillForge offers digital gift credits that can be used to hire freelancers on the platform:

• ₹1,000 Gift Credit
• ₹5,000 Gift Credit
• ₹10,000 Gift Credit
• ₹25,000 Gift Credit

Gift credits can be purchased from the Gift Cards section and sent to any email address. Credits are valid for 12 months from the date of purchase and cannot be redeemed for cash.

11. Taxes

All prices listed on the platform are exclusive of applicable taxes. GST at 18% is charged on SkillForge's service fees as per Indian tax law. Freelancers are responsible for their own income tax obligations. SkillForge provides GST-compliant invoices for all transactions.

12. Contact

For pricing-related queries, please contact support@skillforge.com or call +91 80 4920 7643.