Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy & Mobile Terms

Effective Date: April 6, 2026

The Build Dakota Scholarship Program (“Build Dakota,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting your privacy and maintaining transparency in how information is handled. This Privacy Policy explains how information is managed in connection with the Build Dakota Scholarship Program and your use of our website at www.builddakotascholarships.com.

 

1. Website Purpose and Data Collection

This website is provided for informational purposes only. Build Dakota does not directly collect personal information through this website. Specifically:

  • No online application forms are hosted on this site
  • Users cannot create accounts
  • No personal data is requested or stored through this website

Users are not required to provide personal information to browse this site.

2. Automatically Collected Information

Like most websites, limited non-personal information may be automatically collected through standard technologies, including:

  • IP address
  • Browser type
  • Device type
  • Pages visited
  • General usage patterns

This information:

  • Does not identify you personally
  • Is used for website functionality, security, and analytics
  • May be collected via third-party tools such as website hosting or analytics providers

3. Use of Analytics and Advertising Technologies

This website may use third-party technologies such as:

  • Google Analytics
  • Google Ads services
  • Meta (Facebook) advertising tools

These services may use cookies, pixels, or similar technologies to:

  • Analyze website traffic and usage trends
  • Improve website performance
  • Measure effectiveness of outreach efforts

These providers may collect information such as:

  • Device and browser information
  • Pages visited and time spent on the site
  • General geographic location (non-precise)

Users can manage or opt out of tracking through:

  • Browser settings (cookie controls)
  • Google Ads Settings
  • Facebook Ad Preferences

Build Dakota does not control how third-party providers use data collected through their tools.

4. How Personal Information is Collected Outside the Website

Although this website does not collect personal information, Build Dakota collects and maintains personal information through program operations, including:

  • Scholarship applications submitted through participating technical colleges
  • Student agreements and required documentation
  • Educational institutions and training providers
  • Industry partners and sponsors
  • Program databases and contracted vendors (e.g., Codewise)

5. Use of Personal Information

Personal information collected through program operations is used solely to:

  • Evaluate and process scholarship eligibility
  • Administer and manage the program
  • Track academic progress and employment requirements
  • Verify employment during the required work phase
  • Communicate program requirements and compliance obligations
  • Meet legal, regulatory, and reporting requirements

6. Text Messaging and Communications (TCPA Compliance)

Build Dakota complies with the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA). We do not send unsolicited communications. Text messages are sent only after a participant has:

  • Completed a signed student agreement, and
  • Entered the employment phase of the program

Messages are limited to:

  • Employment verification reminders
  • Required compliance notifications

Participants may opt out at any time by replying “STOP.” Opting out may impact program compliance requirements.

7. Email Communications (CAN-SPAM Compliance)

When email communications are used:

  • They relate directly to program participation or administration
  • They include accurate sender identification

Users may opt out of non-essential communications

8. Disclosure and Sharing of Information

Build Dakota does not sell or rent personal information. Information may be shared only as necessary with:

  • Participating technical colleges
  • Industry partners or sponsors
  • State agencies and oversight entities
  • Contracted service providers (e.g., IT, database vendors)
  • Legal authorities when required by law

All sharing is limited to what is necessary for program administration and compliance.

9. Data Security

We implement reasonable safeguards to protect personal information, including:

  • Restricted system access
  • Secure data storage
  • Vendor oversight and management

However, no system can be guaranteed to be completely secure.

10. Data Retention

Information is retained only as long as necessary to:

  • Fulfill program requirements
  • Maintain financial and operational records
  • Comply with federal and South Dakota laws

11. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

This website may use cookies or similar technologies for:

  • Basic functionality
  • Performance monitoring
  • Analytics

Users may disable cookies through their browser settings.

12. Children’s Privacy (COPPA Compliance)

This website is not directed to children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children through this site.

13. Third-Party Websites

This website may contain links to external sites. Build Dakota is not responsible for the privacy practices or content of those sites.

14. South Dakota Public Records Notice

Build Dakota operates in coordination with state agencies and may be subject to public records laws, including SDCL Chapter 1-27. Information may be disclosed unless otherwise protected by law.

15. Disclaimer and Limitation of Liability

This website is provided “as-is” and “as-available.” Build Dakota makes no warranties regarding:

  • Website availability
  • Accuracy or completeness
  • Freedom from errors

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Build Dakota is not liable for damages related to website use.

16. Changes to This Policy

This Privacy Policy may be updated periodically. Updates will be posted with a revised effective date.

17. Contact Information

Build Dakota Scholarship Program
Deni Martin, Program Manager
Phone: 605-347-1084
Email: deni@builddakotascholarships.com

18. Mobile Terms and Conditions

Build Dakota Scholarship Text Messaging Program

Program Description

This messaging service is available only to participants who:

  • Have completed their technical college program, and
  • Are in the employment phase

Messages are limited to:

  • Employment verification reminders
  • Status updates and compliance notifications

No marketing or promotional messages are sent.

Opt-Out Instructions

You may opt out at any time by texting “STOP.”
You will receive confirmation and will no longer receive messages.

Help & Support

Text “HELP” or contact:

  • Email: brandy@builddakotascholarships.com
  • Phone: (605) 776-2608

Message Delivery Disclaimer

Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages.

Message & Data Rates

  • Message and data rates may apply
  • Message frequency is limited and based only on program requirements

Participation Requirements

By opting in, you confirm:

  • You are a Build Dakota participant in the employment phase
  • You have completed a student agreement
  • You are the account holder or have permission
  • You are at least 18 years old or have consent
  • You agree to receive automated messages for compliance purposes only