What is Independent Minds?Independent Minds is a curated participation platform for independent thinkers. Participants submit original written work in response to a published prompt, which is evaluated using structured editorial criteria focused on clarity, originality, and depth of thought.Is this a lottery, raffle, or game of chance?No. Independent Minds is not a lottery, raffle, or game of chance. All evaluations are skill-based and editorial. Chance plays no role in review or recognition.How does participation work?Participants review the current prompt and Official Rules, purchase access to participate, and then submit original work through the official submission form during the active participation window.Is there a fee to participate?Yes. A non-refundable participation access fee is required to submit work. The access amount is listed on the website at the time of purchase.Why is there a participation access fee?The participation access fee supports platform operations, review administration, and discretionary financial recognition. Payment grants access to submit work and does not guarantee selection or recognition.Does participation guarantee recognition or financial support?No. Participation does not guarantee recognition, selection, or financial support. Any recognition, including financial recognition, is entirely discretionary and based on subjective editorial evaluation.How are submissions evaluated?Submissions are reviewed using published criteria, which may include originality, clarity, and depth of thought. Evaluations are subjective and conducted by a review panel. All decisions are final.Who reviews submissions?Submissions are reviewed by an independent evaluation panel selected by Independent Minds. Reviewers assess submissions based solely on the published criteria.Can I submit more than one entry?Unless otherwise stated, participation is limited to one submission per person per participation event. Attempts to submit multiple entries may result in exclusion.Who is eligible to participate?Eligibility requirements, including age and residency restrictions, are outlined in the Official Rules. Participants must meet all eligibility criteria to be considered.What happens after I submit my work?Submissions are reviewed during the stated evaluation period. If selected for recognition, participants will be contacted using the email address provided during submission.How is financial recognition handled?If financial recognition is offered, it is provided at Independent Minds’ sole discretion. Selected participants may be required to complete verification steps, including identity or tax documentation, prior to receiving funds.What if I pay but don’t submit a response?Participation access fees are non-refundable. If no submission is made during the participation window, access is forfeited.Can my submission be excluded from review?Yes. Submissions may be excluded if they:Do not meet eligibility requirementsViolate the Official Rules or Terms of ServiceAre incomplete or submitted outside the participation windowContain plagiarized, unlawful, or prohibited contentCannot be verifiedDo I retain ownership of my submission?Yes. You retain ownership of your submission. By submitting, you grant Independent Minds a limited license to review, evaluate, and reference your work as described in the Official Rules.Is my personal information secure?Independent Minds collects minimal information and uses reasonable measures to protect it. Information is handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy.Is Independent Minds affiliated with any company or sponsor?No. Independent Minds is independently operated and has no outside sponsors or affiliations unless explicitly stated.How can I contact Independent Minds?If you have questions or need support, please contact us at:Email: [email protected]Please allow a reasonable response time.