Vendor Pre-Application Guide

Vendor Onboarding

We’re so glad you’re here. This space was created by neurodivergent people for neurodivergent people — a community built on connection, creativity, and mutual support. Because this is a dedicated space for our community, all members must be neurodivergent and over the age of eighteen (18).

The Divergent Hive is also a place to showcase and grow your business. To help us keep the marketplace safe, trustworthy, and empowering for everyone, we’ll just need a few things from you, including your ABN or ACN, public liability insurance, and if you offer services, evidence of your qualifications and current indemnity insurance.

In order to apply as a vendor on the Divergent Hive Marketplace platform, Vendors MUST meet the following selection Criteria:

Vendor Selection Criteria

• Age Requirement

  • Must be over 18 years of age.

• Residency

  • Must be an Australian resident or citizen.

• Identification

  • Must provide valid identification on application (Insert link).

• Insurance

  • Must have professional indemnity/public liability insurance (for services) and public and product liability insurance (for products) relevant to the services or products offered before commencing trade. If you do not yet have this in place, please come back to us when you do. This is to protect all parties involved.

• “To participate as a vendor in our marketplace, all sellers must hold current product liability insurance for physical goods, and all service providers must hold appropriate professional indemnity and public liability insurance relevant to their practice. Even if your products or services seem small or harmless, unforeseen events can happen — and insurance protects you, your clients or customers, and our entire community in the unlikely event of damage, injury, or loss related to your goods or services.

• If you are a small business or sole trader, the good news is that this type of insurance is usually quite affordable, and in most cases you can get a quote and take out a policy very quickly and easily online. We know paperwork and compliance can feel stressful, but this step is simply about keeping you protected so you can focus on creating, providing your services, and selling with confidence.

• For guidance on choosing the right policy, including options tailored to small makers, artisans, market stallholders, and service providers, you may find this comparison helpful

• https://www.comparethemarket.com.au/business-insurance/industry/small-business/

• https://www.bizcover.com.au/

• Service Coverage

  • Must be able to provide services or products nationwide.

  • Services or products must be able to be provided fully online (not limited to or dependent on a physical shopfront.).

• Business Registration & Documentation

  • Must have an active ABN or apply for one before commencing trade.

  • Must be willing to present all relevant documents showing:

    • Proof of registration with your associated body (if providing services)

    • Qualifications, certifications, or professional registrations as applicable.

    • Public liability and product liability, and professional and public indemnity insurance documents (for services)

• To sell on our platform, all vendors must have a valid Australian Business Number (ABN). An ABN is essential for operating legally as a sole trader, partnership, company, or other business structure in Australia — it allows you to invoice customers, register for GST if needed, and be recognised as a legitimate business. The good news is that individuals and small business owners can apply for an ABN online and usually receive it instantly once the application is correctly submitted.

• If you don’t already have an ABN, you can apply directly through the Australian Government’s official portal here:
  
  
  

• https://www.abr.gov.au/business-super-funds-charities/applying-abn

• This process is free, straightforward, and quick, so you can get your ABN and start selling with confidence.”

• This resource outlines different types of coverage and helps you compare providers so you can select what best fits your business.”

• Policies

  • Must have a clear and accessible return policy in place.

• Platform Conduct

  • Must not redirect customers to a private or external website for the purpose of bypassing the platform.

• Neurodivergent Identity & Communication Standards

  • Must identify as neurodivergent (self-identification is acceptable).

  • Must use neuroaffirming language in all product descriptions, messaging, and communication with clients.

    • Words/phrases such as “disorder,” “ASD,” “deficits,” “deficiencies,” or similar pathologising terms are not permitted.

    • Vendors must view our neuroaffirming video aspart of the application process and successfully answer questions about what it means to be neuroaffirming before application can be accepted.

Vendor Pre-Application Guide for Divergent Hive Marketplace

This is what you will need to do:

1. What to Do Before You Start Your Application

To make the process smooth, you should:

1. Review Your Business Details

• Username: Choose a username. This will appear publicly.

• Review and agree to the terms and conditions of the Vendor agreement (attach link here- please make sure that the client has to check a box “agree to term” for each clause of document before allowing them to proceed to the next clause)

2. Check Your Legal Requirements

• Business registration (ABN), licenses, or permits (if required for services)

• Insurance coverage (public liability and professional indemnity)

3. Prepare Your Documents

• Scans or digital copies of registration certificates, licenses, and insurance

• Proof of identity (government ID or passport)

4. Learn About Inclusivity

• Watch a short video about disability and neurodivergence on our platform

• Be prepared to answer a few short questions about what you learned.

What Happens After You Apply

• Review process: We carefully review all applications. Please allow 7-14 business days as we are expecting a large volume of applications.

• Rejection: If your application is rejected, we will provide reasons and encourage you to apply again after making updates.

• Approval: Once approved, you can start listing your products and/or services on our platform.

4. Tips for a Smooth Application

• Make sure all your documents are current and accurate

• Use clear, professional photos of your products or services

• Double-check spelling and pricing information

• Complete the short video and answer the questions thoughtfully

• For products, describe size, colour options, benefits (including fun!), uniqueness, and availability

• Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records

5. Questions or Help

If you need help preparing your application or have questions:

Email: support@thedivergenthive.com

Checklist

1. Business & Personal Information

• ☐ Choose a username (no personal names)

• ☐ Write a short bio: background, interests, neurodivergence identity, something interesting about you

• ☐ Prepare contact information (email, phone, address if required)

2. Legal & Compliance Documents

• ☐ Business registration certificate

• ☐ Relevant licenses or permits

• ☐ Insurance documents (if required)

• ☐ Proof of identity (government ID or passport)

7. After Submission

• ☐ Understand that your application will be reviewed carefully

• ☐ If rejected, read the reasons provided and update your application

• ☐ Reapply after making necessary updates