Legal Guidelines for Space Exploration Science Grants Program

Introduction
The following document presents the Legal Guidelines (hereinafter the “Guidelines”) of the CHiwi Foundation (hereinafter “CHiwi” or the “Foundation”), establishing the legal framework and compliance requirements governing relationships with the Foundation in the context of the Space Exploration Science Grants Program (hereinafter the “Space Grant Program”). The Guidelines serve as a foundational document to ensure that all activities undertaken in the context of the Space Exploration Science Grants Program and all individuals and entities engaging with CHiwi thereunder align with applicable Swiss legal and regulatory obligations.

This document is intended to provide clear legal and compliance guidance for the Foundation’s activities under the Space Grant Program, while supporting responsible scientific research in advanced mathematics, alternative energy, and space exploration.

This document is structured to cover the main areas, including governance and compliance, intellectual property rights, funding regulations, data protection, research guidelines, and dispute resolution. It is intended to guide all individuals and entities engaging with CHiwi in the context of the Space Grant Program and ensure that their activities align with applicable legal and regulatory obligations.  

By establishing these Guidelines, the Foundation upholds its commitment to lawful practices while supporting high-impact scientific research worldwide.

I. General Provisions
a. Purpose and Scope
The purpose of the Legal Guidelines is to establish the legal framework governing the Call for Proposals (hereinafter the “CFP” or the “Call”) under the Space Grant Program. These Guidelines apply specifically to this program and do not govern other activities of the Foundation. The Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing research, education, and innovation in the fields of advanced mathematics, alternative energy, and space exploration. The Guidelines outline the principles, rules, and obligations that apply to all individuals and entities engaging with CHiwi in the context of the Space Grant Program.

The Guidelines apply to all operations related to the CFPs conducted by CHiwi in Switzerland or abroad. The Guidelines apply to all CHiwi operations related to Calls For Proposals, conducted in Switzerland and abroad. They cover matters including compliance with applicable laws and regulations, grant application and disbursement procedures, intellectual property rights, data confidentiality, and dispute resolution mechanisms. The Guidelines are intended to ensure transparency, accountability, and adherence to the highest legal and professional standards in CHiwi activities.

By submitting an application or otherwise participating in the Space Grant Program, individuals and entities agree to comply with these Guidelines, as well as any additional policies and procedures that CHiwi may establish to govern specific programs and initiatives.

b. Legal Framework
CHiwi operates exclusively under Swiss law. All activities, agreements, and engagements with CHiwi shall be governed and interpreted in accordance with Swiss law. The Guidelines are drafted and enforced exclusively under Swiss law and applicable Swiss regulatory requirements and do not incorporate or recognize foreign legal frameworks unless required or permitted by Swiss law.

If there is a conflict between Swiss law and the laws of another jurisdiction, Swiss law shall prevail. CHiwi is responsible for compliance with Swiss law and assumes no obligation to comply with foreign legal frameworks except where required by Swiss law.

For matters related to dispute resolution, refer to the separate Dispute Resolution section of these Guidelines.

c. Responsibility Framework
All individuals and entities engaging with CHiwi in the context of the Space Grant Program are responsible for complying with applicable legal, financial, regulatory, and institutional obligations. To the fullest extent permitted by applicable Swiss law, CHiwi assumes no liability for any actions, omissions, representations, or consequences arising from such engagements. Responsibility for due diligence, risk assessment, and compliance rests primarily with the respective individual or entity.

II. Legal Considerations
CHiwi is committed to maintaining the highest legal and professional standards in all its activities, ensuring that its grant-making process and research support initiatives are conducted with integrity, compliance with applicable Swiss law, and fairness. All applications will be treated in accordance with professional standards, subject to Section 2.1, decisions communicated in accordance with CHiwi's sole discretion as outlined in Section 5. CHiwi upholds a strong commitment to equal opportunity and non-discrimination, evaluating all applications primarily on merit, scientific value, and alignment with its mission.

a. Non-Enforceability
While CHiwi is firmly committed to the principles of integrity, fairness, and non-discrimination, these statements reflect CHiwi’s commitments and internal policies. They do not create any contractual rights or entitlements and shall not be construed as legally binding obligations enforceable in any court of law. CHiwi’s decisions regarding grant applications and the application process and procedures are final and not subject to legal appeal or judicial review.

III. Data Confidentiality
CHiwi acknowledges the importance of data confidentiality and is committed to treating all information received from all individuals and entities engaging with CHiwi in the context of the Space Grant Program as sensitive nature. CHiwi will handle all data in accordance with Swiss data protection laws ensuring that information is used solely for the purposes for which it was provided.

While CHiwi takes appropriate measures to safeguard confidential information, it does not assume liability, to the extent permitted by law, for any unauthorized access, data breaches, or third-party misuse beyond its reasonable control. All individuals and entities engaging with CHiwi in connection with the Space Grant Program are responsible for ensuring that any confidential or sensitive data they provide to CHiwi complies with applicable legal and security requirements. CHiwi will not disclose or share personal or project-related data with unauthorized parties unless required by law, or with the explicit consent of the concerned party, or where disclosure is reasonably necessary for the evaluation or administration of the Space Grant Program, on a need-to-know basis.

IV. Intellectual Property Rights
CHiwi does not claim any intellectual property (IP) rights over the work, research, or innovations produced by all individuals and entities engaging with CHiwi in the context of the Space Grant Program. All intellectual property generated as a result of projects funded under the Space Grant Program remains with the respective individuals or entities, and CHiwi does not claim any ownership or rights in such intellectual property.CHiwi assumes no responsibility for the management, protection, enforcement, or commercialization of any intellectual property. It is the sole responsibility of the recipients to secure, register, or enforce their IP rights in accordance with applicable laws. Any disputes, claims, or liabilities related to intellectual property, including infringement, licensing, or third-party claims, are the sole responsibility of the concerned parties, and CHiwi will not be involved in any such matters.

By accepting grants or engaging in research funded by CHiwi, recipients acknowledge that they bear full responsibility for any intellectual property considerations, including compliance with relevant legal frameworks and agreements governing IP rights.

V. Funding and Grant Guidelines
CHiwi provides funding exclusively in the form of grants to advance research, education, and innovation in its areas of focus. Grants are awarded based on merit, feasibility, and alignment with CHiwi’s mission. Funding decisions are made at the discretion of CHiwi, taking into account the availability of resources and the terms of applicable grant agreements.

• Application and Evaluation: Grant applicants must submit detailed proposals that outline their research objectives, methodology, budget, and expected outcomes. The evaluation process is conducted with fairness, and funding is awarded based on the project’s scientific or innovative value.

Applicants and recipients are responsible for ensuring that all information provided to CHiwi is accurate, complete, and kept up to date.
Submission of an application or proposal does not create any obligation on CHiwi’s part to provide funding. CHiwi reserves the discretion to approve or decline applications and, where applicable, to suspend or terminate support in accordance with the applicable grant terms and applicable Swiss law.

• Use of Funds: Grant recipients bear full responsibility for the appropriate allocation and management of funds.
• Financial and Legal Accountability: CHiwi assumes no liability for any financial, legal, or regulatory obligations arising from grant funding and funds granted. All tax implications, reporting duties, and regulatory compliance remain the sole responsibility of the recipient.
• No Obligation for Future Support: CHiwi does not guarantee continued funding beyond the awarded grant period, nor does it guarantee funding for other projects submitted by the recipient outside the Call for Proposals program or in future application rounds. Each grant is awarded independently and is subject to a separate review and approval process.
• Compliance with Terms: Recipients are required to adhere to the agreed-upon terms and conditions of the grant. Non-compliance may result in the suspension or revocation of funding at CHiwi’s sole discretion.
• Anti-Corruption and Bribery: CHiwi maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of corruption, bribery, or any form of pressure or influence. Under no circumstances shall any individual or organization attempt to offer, solicit, or accept any form of bribe, kickback, or improper advantage in connection with CHiwi’s grant-making, partnerships, or operational activities. Any such conduct will result in immediate disqualification from current and future engagement with CHiwi and may be reported to relevant legal authorities. CHiwi maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of corruption, bribery, or any form of pressure or influence. All individuals and entities engaging with CHiwi in the context of the Space Grant Program are expected to act with integrity, transparency, and in full compliance with applicable Swiss law, consistent with Section 1.2 of these Guidelines. Under no circumstances shall any individual or organization attempt to offer, solicit, or accept any form of bribe, kickback, improper advantage, or engage in any improper pressure or undue influence in connection with CHiwi's grant-making, partnerships, or operational activities. Any such conduct may result in immediate disqualification from current and future engagement with CHiwi and may be reported to the competent authorities where required or appropriate under applicable Swiss law.

CHiwi disclaims any liability for how grant funds are used once awarded and does not assume responsibility for any financial, operational, or legal matters arising from the recipient’s activities. CHiwi reserves the right to modify its funding policies at any time. Any such changes will not affect grants already awarded, unless required by Swiss law or agreed in writing with the relevant recipient.

VI. Contracts and Agreements
All formal engagements with CHiwi, including but not limited to grant allocations, research partnerships, and service agreements, shall be governed by written, legally binding contracts.
a. Contractual Autonomy
CHiwi retains full discretion in determining the terms and conditions of any agreement it enters into, subject to applicable Swiss law and the agreed contractual terms. The execution of a contract does not create any obligation to continue funding, establish a partnership, or engage further beyond the agreed-upon terms.
b. Contract Legal Status
Nothing in these legal guidelines, nor in any related communications or written or signed agreements, does or shall be deemed to constitute, create, or give rise to any joint venture, partnership, employment, or agency relationship between CHiwi and any third party.
c. Contractual Liability
CHiwi shall not be held responsible for any obligations, risks, or liabilities beyond the express terms stated in the contract. Any external risks, legal disputes, or financial burdens arising from the activities of individuals or entities engaging with CHiwi in the context of the Space Grant Program remain their sole responsibility.  
d. Adherence to Terms
All individuals and entities engaging with CHiwi in the context of the Space Grant Program must adhere to the contractual terms agreed with CHiwi. Failure to comply may result in termination, withdrawal of funding, or such remedies as are available under the applicable grant terms and applicable Swiss law, including as provided under Section 8 of these Guidelines.
e. Modification and Termination
Contracts may only be modified in writing with the explicit agreement of both parties. CHiwi reserves the right to terminate an agreement if the relevant individual or entity fails to fulfill its obligations or violates applicable Swiss legal or regulatory requirements, subject to the applicable contract and consistent with Section 1.2 of these Guidelines.

VII. Liability and Indemnification
a. Exclusion of Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, CHiwi, its directors, officers, employees, agents, affiliates, and representatives shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, consequential, special, exemplary, or punitive damages, including but not limited to:

• Loss of profits, revenue, data, or business opportunities;
• Legal or regulatory non-compliance by individuals or entities engaging with CHiwi in the context of the Space Grant Program or by third parties associated with them.
• Intellectual property disputes, including infringement, licensing issues, or misappropriation of trade secrets;
• Tax liabilities, financial mismanagement, or improper use of funds by recipients;
• Breach of contract or implied obligation by third parties engaged in connection with the Space Grant Program;
• Personal injury, reputational damage, or loss of goodwill arising from funded research or collaborations;
• Any act, omission, negligence, or willful misconduct by third parties engaged by individuals or entities engaging with CHiwi;
• Any reliance on statements, announcements, or representations made by CHiwi through social media, websites, or other public communications that are not expressly identified by CHiwi as legally binding.

b. Indemnification

• By participating in the Space Grant Program or entering into a written agreement with CHiwi, all individuals and entities engaging with CHiwi in the context of the Space Grant Program agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless CHiwi, its directors, officers, employees, agents, affiliates, and representatives from and against any and all claims, liabilities, damages, losses, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising from or relating to:Any breach of these Guidelines or contractual obligations;
• Any misrepresentation, fraud, or unlawful conduct by recipients or third parties associated with them;
• Non-compliance with applicable laws or regulations, including those of Switzerland and every jurisdiction in which the relevant individual or entity operates, to the extent attributable to that individual or entity;
• Intellectual property disputes, including third-party claims of infringement or unauthorized use;
• Data breaches, cybersecurity incidents, or privacy violations committed by recipients;
• Any misuse, mismanagement, or unauthorized use of funds granted by CHiwi;
• Any damages, losses, or liabilities incurred due to research outcomes, commercialization failures, or violations of applicable laws or regulations.

c. No Warranties or Guarantees
CHiwi makes no representations, warranties, or guarantees of any kind, express or implied,  regarding:

• The success, validity, or viability of funded projects;
• The accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any data, findings, or research outcomes;
• The compliance of recipients with legal and regulatory obligations;
• The financial stability or continued funding availability for recipients beyond their awarded grant.

All individuals and entities engaging with CHiwi in the context of the Space Grant Program acknowledge that they do so subject to these Guidelines, and CHiwi shall bear no liability for any adverse consequences arising from their engagement, to the extent permitted by applicable Swiss law.
CHiwi reserves the right to amend or modify these Guidelines from time to time. Where practicable, CHiwi will provide reasonable notice of material changes.

VIII. Dispute Resolution
In the event of any dispute, claim, or controversy arising from or related to participation in the Space Grant Program or any written agreement entered into with CHiwi in connection therewith, the following dispute resolution mechanisms shall apply. All individuals and entities engaging with CHiwi in the context of the Space Grant Program acknowledge and accept that these dispute resolution mechanisms are the primary means for resolving disputes arising from participation in the Space Grant Program, without prejudice to either party’s right to seek urgent interim relief from a competent Swiss court where necessary, subject to any mandatory rights under applicable Swiss law.
a. Good Faith Negotiations
Parties shall first attempt to resolve disputes amicably through good faith negotiations within a period of thirty (30) days from the date on which one party notifies the other of the dispute in writing, unless the parties agree in writing to extend this period.
b. Mediation
If negotiations fail, the parties shall attempt mediation in Switzerland under the Swiss Chambers' Mediation Rules, or such other mediation rules as the parties may agree in writing. If the parties cannot agree on a mediator within fifteen (15) days of mediation being requested, the mediator shall be appointed by the Swiss Chambers' Arbitration Institution (SCAI).
c. Arbitration
If mediation does not resolve the dispute, then, in the absence of a specific arbitration clause in the relevant contract, it shall be finally settled by binding arbitration under the Swiss Rules of International Arbitration of the Swiss Chambers’ Arbitration Institution (SCAI Rules), as currently in force. The seat of arbitration shall be Geneva, Switzerland. The arbitral tribunal shall consist of one arbitrator unless the parties agree otherwise in writing. The language of the arbitration shall be English. The arbitral award shall be final and binding on the parties.

IX. Final Provisions
a. Amendments
CHiwi reserves the right to modify, update, or amend these Guidelines from time to time. Any such changes will not affect grants already awarded, unless required by applicable law or agreed in writing with the relevant recipient. Where practicable, CHiwi may provide reasonable notice of material changes. It is the responsibility of all individuals and entities engaging with CHiwi in the context of the Space Grant Program to remain informed of the current version of the Guidelines as published on CHiwi’s official website.
b. Severability
If any provision of the Guidelines is found to be invalid or unenforceable under applicable Swiss law, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect to the extent possible.
c. No Waiver
The failure of CHiwi to enforce any provision of the Guidelines shall not constitute a waiver of its rights to do so in the future.
d. Governing Law
These Guidelines shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Swiss law, without regard to its conflict of laws principles, consistent with Section 1.2 of these Guidelines.
e. Entire Agreement
These Guidelines, together with any applicable written contracts or other written agreements with the relevant party concerning the same subject matter, constitute the entire understanding between CHiwi and all individuals and entities engaging with CHiwi in the context of the Space Grant Program, superseding all prior oral and written communications or understandings relating to the subject matter hereof. In the event of any conflict between these Guidelines and any applicable written contract, the terms of the written contract shall prevail to the extent of the conflict, unless otherwise agreed in writing by both parties.