Stage 1
Applying
Free and non-binding. Submitting an application does not create a contract, guarantee a response, or commit THP to any course of action. We may decline without explanation. No debt is incurred on either side.
Legal
What you're agreeing to. No small-print tricks.
These terms govern your use of thehardport.com and THP's services. They are short because the model is simple. If something is unclear, email us.
Last updated: July 2026
What THP is
A diagnostic service. Not a marketing agency.
The Hard Port is a business diagnostic and intervention service for established Level 1 microbusinesses — real customers, real delivery, founder still inside the operation.
We are not a posting agency, a rebrand shop, a lead-generation machine, or a social media manager. Execution only happens inside the intervention when a diagnosed constraint specifically requires it.
Not included — ever
- ✗Guaranteed revenue, profit, or follower growth
- ✗That every applicant is accepted or receives a response
- ✗That every client progresses from Level 1 to Level 2
- ✗A social media audit, content calendar, or rebrand
- ✗A guarantee that applying leads to a diagnostic
The process
Three distinct agreements. Each clearly scoped.
Stage 2
Business Reality Diagnostic
A fixed-scope, fixed-fee professional service. Fee is stated in writing before any agreement is signed. Payment is due before diagnostic work begins. No refunds once work has commenced. Findings are evidence-based — not a guarantee of any business outcome.
The diagnostic report remains THP's intellectual property until full payment is received.
Stage 3
Intervention
Optional. Governed by a separate client agreement with its own payment, scope, and cancellation terms. The diagnostic is complete whether or not you proceed to intervention.
Confidentiality
Both directions
THP treats your application and business information as confidential. We do not share it with third parties except where required by law.
You agree not to reproduce, resell, or publicly share THP's proprietary diagnostic framework, methodology, or reports without written permission. This applies during and after any engagement.
Limitation of liability
We are responsible for our work
THP's total liability for any claim arising from our services is limited to the fees paid for the specific service that gave rise to the claim. We are not liable for indirect or consequential losses — including revenue not earned, decisions made based on findings, or outcomes after intervention.
Capacity
One client at a time
During field validation, THP accepts one active diagnostic or intervention client at a time. This is a real constraint, not a marketing device. Application timing affects availability.
Changes to these terms
You will be told
We may update these terms as THP evolves. If you are an active client, we will notify you by email before changes take effect. Continued use of this site after notice constitutes acceptance.
Disputes
Talk first
Contact setSail@thehardport.com before initiating any formal process. We will attempt good-faith resolution within 30 days. THP operates under the laws of its registered jurisdiction.
Ready to be examined?
Application is free. The diagnostic is paid professional work. Applying does not guarantee acceptance. If that feels right, apply.