Privacy Policy & Cookie Policy
Effective Date: September 1, 2025
Last Updated: September 23, 2025

1. Introduction

Protecting your privacy is our priority. This Privacy & Cookie Policy applies to www.coolestthingsmadeinmo.com (the "Website") and governs our data collection and usage practices. For this policy, "we," "our," and "us" refer to Coolest Things Made in Missouri, presented by the Springfield Business Journal.

By using this Website, you consent to the data practices described below. If you do not agree with these practices, please discontinue use of the Website.

2. Personal Information We Collect

We only collect personal information when you voluntarily provide it. You may be asked to provide personal data when you:

• Sign up for newsletters or updates

• Enter a contest or giveaway

• Complete a survey or poll

• Contact us via email or web form

Types of data collected may include:

• Name

• Email address

• Phone number

• Other contact details

This information is used solely to communicate with you about our content, promotions, events, and updates related to the Website.

We may collect additional data in the future for similar purposes, which will be disclosed at the time of collection.

3. Automatically Collected Information

When you visit our Website, we may automatically collect certain technical information such as:

• IP address

• Browser type and version

• Operating system

• Device type

• Referring website addresses

• Pages visited and time spent

• Access times and dates

This data helps us secure the site, analyze trends, and improve performance and content.

4. Cookies & Tracking Technologies

Our Website uses cookies and similar technologies to enhance user experience and analyze performance.

What Are Cookies?

Cookies are small data files stored on your device by your browser when you visit a website. They help remember your preferences, improve functionality, and collect usage data.

Types of Cookies We Use:

• Essential cookies – Required for basic functionality.

• Performance and analytics cookies – Help us understand how users interact with our content (e.g., via Google Analytics).

• Functionality cookies – Store preferences to personalize your experience.

• Third-party cookies – May be set by external services such as analytics platforms or embedded content.

Cookie Consent Tool:

When you first visit the Website, you will see a cookie consent banner. This tool allows you to:

• Accept or reject non-essential cookies

• Manage your cookie preferences at any time

Cookies will not be used unless you consent, except for those strictly necessary for site operation.

Managing Cookies:

You can also control or disable cookies through your browser settings. Please note that disabling certain cookies may affect the Website's performance and functionality.

5. Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information (For California Residents)

We do not sell your personal information. However, some data sharing (such as for analytics) may be classified as a "sale" or "sharing" under California's CPRA.

If you are a California resident, you have the right to:

• Request disclosure of what personal information we collect and how it is used

• Request deletion of your personal data (with exceptions)

• Opt out of the sale or sharing of personal information

To exercise your rights, visit our Do Not Sell or Share My Info link by clicking here or contact us directly (see below).

6. Sharing Your Information

We do not sell, rent, or lease your personal information.

We may share data with trusted third-party service providers who assist with:

• Email communications

• Website hosting

• Analytics and performance monitoring

These third parties are contractually obligated to protect your information and use it only for the agreed services.

We may also disclose information when required by law or if necessary to:

• Comply with legal obligations

• Protect our rights or property

• Prevent harm or illegal activity

7. Email Communications

If you opt in to receive communications from us, we may send emails about:

• News and updates

• Events or features

• Contests or promotions

• Surveys or user feedback

You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the "Unsubscribe" link in any of our emails.

We may track email opens and link clicks to improve communication effectiveness.

8. Data Retention and Security

Your data is stored on secure servers managed by reputable third-party providers. We take reasonable administrative and technical measures to protect personal information from unauthorized access, misuse, or disclosure.

Data is retained only as long as necessary for legitimate business or legal purposes.

9. Your Rights and Choices

You have the right to:

• Access your personal data

• Request correction or deletion

• Withdraw consent at any time

• Opt out of cookies and email marketing

• Request that we do not sell or share your personal information (California residents)

To exercise these rights, contact us using the information below.

10. Children Under 13

We do not knowingly collect information from children under 13. If you are under 13, do not provide any personal information without parental consent.

If we learn that we have inadvertently collected data from a child under 13, we will delete it as quickly as possible.

11. External Links

Our Website may contain links to third-party websites. We are not responsible for the privacy practices or content of these sites. Please review their policies separately.

12. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically. Any changes will be posted on this page with an updated "Effective Date." Your continued use of the Website after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of those changes.

13. Contact Information

For questions, concerns, or requests regarding this policy or your data, please contact:

Coolest Things Made in Missouri
Presented by Springfield Business Journal
📧 Email: mgoodnight@sbj.net
📞 Phone: (417) 831-3238
🌐 Website: www.coolestthingsmadeinmo.com