Opportunity: Mercy Corps Venture Offers $100K Equity-Free Grants

17 Partnerships for the goalsLeave a comment

Access to funding remains a significant barrier for many startups, particularly those focused on emerging markets and innovative technologies. Without adequate financial support, these ventures struggle to scale their operations and bring solutions to those needing them most. Furthermore, navigating the complexities of impact measurement, mentorship, and partnership opportunities adds another challenge for these aspiring entrepreneurs. In response to the pressing need for equitable funding and comprehensive support for Impact startups, the Crypto for Good Fund from Mercy Corps is poised to address these challenges head-on. With a commitment to providing up to $100,000 in equity-free grants to ten deserving startups, the Fund aims to catalyze innovation and empower entrepreneurs across emerging markets. Beyond financial assistance, the initiative, led by MCV, offers a holistic support system encompassing mentorship, impact measurement advisory, partnership opportunities, knowledge exchange, and brand exposure. To further amplify its impact, Impact Plus is thrilled to welcome Timothy Asiimwe, Crypto For Good Fund Manager at Mercy Corps, for an insightful session within the Polygon Labs Impact Care Center webinar series. Designed explicitly to bolster blockchain impact startups and entrepreneurs in their journey to scalability, this webinar promises invaluable guidance and expertise. During the session, Timothy Asiimwe will demystify the application process, providing tips for applicants to navigate successfully. With extensive experience, he will answer questions and offer strategic insights to help participants craft compelling proposals. Moreover, Timothy will shed light on the Fund’s strategic focus on fostering crypto innovation at the forefront, emphasizing the importance of initiatives prioritizing improving the lives and opportunities of underserved communities in emerging markets. Register here!  

Kenya’s Battle Against Crypto Scams: Stakeholders Extend Feedback Period for VASP Bill

12 Responsible consumption and production, 16 Peace, justice and strong institutionsLeave a comment

The rampant proliferation of cryptocurrency scams in Kenya, leading to the defrauding of millions, underscores a pressing need for crypto regulatory frameworks. This urgent issue was addressed during a crucial stakeholder meeting convened in Nairobi on February 16th 2024, organized by the Blockchain Association of Kenya (BAK), alongside Impact Plus and Polygon Labs. The primary agenda of the gathering was to announce an extension to the feedback period for the draft of the Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) bill. Mandated by the National Assembly’s Finance and National Planning Committee in November 2023, this bill aims to tackle the challenges posed by the lack of regulation in the cryptocurrency sphere in Kenya. The Importance of Regulation: The lack of regulation in Kenya’s cryptocurrency industry has paved the way for unscrupulous individuals to exploit unsuspecting citizens. With no legal framework in place, fraudulent activities have flourished, tarnishing the reputation of cryptocurrencies and causing financial harm to many. In a recent publication by Citizen.digital, Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) issued a warning as Kenyans fall victim of online cryptocurrency investment scam. According to Nations.Africa; “Official data from the Information, Communications and Technology ministry last year indicated that fraudsters made Sh13.2 billion off thousands of Kenyans who thought they were purchasing cryptocurrencies.” Recognizing this urgent need, the VASP bill aims to establish comprehensive regulations to govern the crypto landscape in Kenya. Its objectives are twofold: to protect citizens from scams and to create an environment conducive to legitimate crypto businesses, ultimately fostering economic growth. Initially slated for release in February, the VASP bill’s feedback period has been extended due to the growing interest from a diverse range of stakeholders. This includes government agencies, international organizations, and the private sector. The decision to extend the feedback period underscores the importance of incorporating input from all relevant parties to ensure that the final legislation is robust and effective. During the stakeholder meeting Chairman Michael Kimani reiterated the significance of the VASP bill in combating cryptocurrency-related scams. He emphasized that the bill represents a crucial milestone in addressing the rampant fraud that has plagued Kenyans. Kimani highlighted the urgent need for regulatory frameworks to safeguard the public from further financial harm. In conclusion, the extension of the feedback period for the VASP bill signifies a significant step towards addressing the challenges facing Kenya’s cryptocurrency industry. Through comprehensive regulation, the country aims to protect its citizens while creating an environment conducive to legitimate crypto businesses. It’s a pivotal moment in Kenya’s journey towards harnessing the benefits of cryptocurrencies while mitigating the risks associated with them.

NGO Bootcamp Explores Blockchain Technology

09 Industry, innovation and infrastructure, 11 Sustainable cities and communities, 17 Partnerships for the goalsLeave a comment

Blockchain technology is transforming various industries by offering unique features that enable transparency, security, and efficiency in data management, supply chain management, and payments, among other things.  Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a crucial role in addressing societal challenges, and blockchain technology could significantly enhance their efficiency and transparency, thereby increasing their positive impact on humanity.  To empower NGOs with the knowledge and skills to leverage blockchain technology, Impac Plus hosted an NGO Bootcamp on Blockchain Technology in Kenya. This event brought together NGO stakeholders and International Development professionals to explore how blockchain technology can be integrated in the development of technology solutions for their internal operations and field responses. It was also an avenue to discuss the possibilities of catalyzing the attainment of the SDGs through blockchain technology. This Program is part of our ongoing series of events focused on blockchain compliance and regulation that took place concurrently in Nigeria and Kenya. In hosting these series of events, we formed strategic partnerships with prominent organizations, including Polygon, 1inch, Aragon, Binance, Convexity, YALI to deliver these programs effectively. Our primary objective is to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory frameworks surrounding blockchain technology in Nigeria and Kenya, bridging the gap between these regulations and organizations across various sectors. This bootcamp took place on November 30th, from 12 p.m at AFRALTI Campus, which is adjacent to CAK and off Waiyaki Way in Westlands Nairobi.  

Blockchain for International Development in Istanbul

09 Industry, innovation and infrastructure, 12 Responsible consumption and production, 17 Partnerships for the goalsLeave a comment

Impact-driven blockchain startups face significant challenges when it comes to expanding their initiatives. Their heavy reliance on funding from the Web3 community presents a major obstacle, making scaling – and in some cases, even survival – a daunting endeavor. During the week of Devconnect in Istanbul, Türkiye, we are determined to tackle this issue head-on. That’s why we are thrilled to announce that we will be hosting a one-day conference “The Responsible Revolution day: Blockchain for International Development”on November 14, 2023, at the prestigious Atatürk Cultural Center. The AKM in Istanbul is a renowned cultural and arts venue. It has played a pivotal role in promoting Turkish culture and heritage through its diverse programs and stands as a symbol of the country’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation. How can we scale startups for impact? How can we apply for an International Development grant? How can we influence regulatory decisions? How do we prevent tensions from arising in the communities we support? The Blockchain 4 International Development conference, organized with the support of Polygon Labs, is dedicated to unlocking the potential of blockchain technology to create a meaningful impact in the field of International Development. We aim to bridge the worlds of Web3 and International Development by creating a space for industry leaders, academics, NGO representatives, developers, founders, and blockchain enthusiasts to come together and engage in discussions about the elephant in the room: ‘How can we scale startups for impact?‘ In addition, the conference is all about demonstrating how blockchain technology can be applied in the field of International Development and for Social Impact.   Let’s Scale Responsibly, Together! The conference provides a working space to support startups as they overcome the key barriers that hinder their growth. The Responsible Revolution Day focuses on pragmatically supporting impact-driven startups, emphasizing the technological benefits they bring to society.  The conference will bring together a diverse array of attendees, including local startups, NGOs, industry leaders, academics, founders, developers, students, and many more.   What makes “the Responsible Revolution Day” unique? We prioritize impact-driven startups and offer tracks dedicated to: Fundraising: how does a startup access funding within and beyond the Web3 ecosystem? Impact Measurement: how can startups methodologically prove their impact with funders and other ecosystem players? Developer hurdles: how can startups overcome common developer hurdles that prevent them from scaling? Ethical considerations: ensuring startups do not create negative externalities..   A pragmatic approach: The conference has a unique pragmatic approach, focusing on assisting startups in their initiatives through workshops and bringing them into direct contact with specialists from various fields. The morning is dedicated to a Blockchain 101 workshop designed for local NGO representatives. This workshop highlights the potential of decentralized tools to not only enhance existing initiatives but also to pave the way for innovative approaches in reaching those in need. During the rest of the day, topics include, but are not limited to, fundraising, MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning), and developer hurdles     Confirmed Speakers Our experts, among others, include: Kevin Owocki, Co-Founder of Gitcoin Sanna Bedi, Innovation Specialist at UNICEF Venture Fund Arun Maharajan, Blockchain Lead at UNICEF Joan de Ramon Brunet, Head of Growth at Ethichub Ayşegül Şensoy, Co-founder at SOS Chain Raquel Suárez, Senior MEAL Advisor. (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning) at Impact Plus, +18 years of experience Anne-Grace Kleczewski: Co-Founder and Chief Legal Office at Keom Protocol Eugènie Lund-Simon, grant writing specialist, has ten years of experience supporting the design and implementation of USAID programs Dr. Eduard Peris Deprez, PhD Kings College, has 15 years of implementation experience in international development Scott Moore, co-founder of Gitcoin, is an expert on the use of blockchain technology to support public goods Hudson Jameson, VP Governance and Community at Polygon Labs Janina Pietrowska, Chairwoman at Bastion Cooperative and DAO Boris Polania, NEAR DevHub Devrel Lead Luuk Weber, DAO coordinator Celo Europe Dr. Mustafa Takaoğlu Senior Researcher at TÜBİTAK (The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye) …                 Register Here!     FAQS 1. What is Devconnect? Devconnect is a weeklong initiative that is all about blockchain technology, and to be more specific, supporting and growing the Ethereum ecosystem. The initiative aims to bring together Ethereum’s most important builders, researchers, and community by organizing a full week of ecosystem events. Find more info at devconnect.org.   2. What is The Responsible Revolution? The Responsible Revolution” represents an open initiative, emphasizing the cultivation of ethical standards and highlighting the tangible social impact contributions within the blockchain domain. At its heart, the movement seeks to promote the application of blockchain technology in tackling urgent global issues. We want blockchain to efficiently serve society to its full potential, pushing the boundaries of the human challenges that still lie ahead. We are determined to provide support to you and all initiatives that work for the common good and human needs, whether they are social, animal welfare, or environmental. We are here because the responsibility lies in how, and we are one. Contact us: If you are interested in exploring speaking opportunities at our event or considering sponsorship options, please feel free to reach out at niels.vandeschepop@impact-plus.io Where: AKM Multipurpose Hall, Atatürk Cultural Center in Istanbul, Türkiye Stay tuned for more details!   Co-organisers:   Sponsors: Partners:

Blockchain and Decentralized Technologies for Climate Action with Cornell University

11 Sustainable cities and communities, 13 Climate action, 17 Partnerships for the goalsLeave a comment

The pressing issues of climate change and the imperative need for sustainable economic models have propelled discussions on innovative solutions. Traditional methods have often fallen short in providing the necessary tools for tackling these complex challenges. Hence, there is a growing interest in exploring emerging technologies like blockchain and decentralized systems to address these intertwined issues effectively. In October, 2023, Cornell University led a groundbreaking workshop in collaboration with Polygon Labs and Impact Plus. The event, hosted as part of Cornell Tech’s Urban Tech Summit 2023, delved into the critical intersection of Web3, regenerative economies, and climate action. Helena Rong, a PhD Candidate at Columbia University and Founder at CIVIS DESIGN AND ADVISORY, moderated a high-level panel featuring Nakul R. Padalkar, Assistant Professor at Georgetown University; Ryan L. Thomas, Visiting Assistant Professor at Wentworth Institute of Technology and Chief Sustainability Officer at Simbiotica Finance; and Charlie Moore, Climate Finance Entrepreneur. Key takeaways from the workshop highlighted the potential of blockchain and decentralized technologies in advancing sustainable economies and climate action. The discussion underscored the transformative impact of digitization approaches, such as tokenization and smart contracts, on carbon markets. Challenges identified included the need for standardized data, improved user interfaces, and equitable resource distribution. The U.N environment programme in one of its publications stated the need to not overlook the blockchain in the battle against climate crises. In that regard, during the event, blockchain’s role in enhancing sustainability initiatives was emphasized, particularly in fostering transparency, accountability, and trust—essential elements for stakeholder engagement. The conversation also explored the integration of these technologies across sectors like energy, water management, and carbon trading, showcasing their broad potential impact. The organizers express sincere gratitude to the speakers and attendees for their insightful contributions, looking forward to continued collaboration in raising awareness about the transformative potential of blockchain and decentralized technologies in fostering regenerative economies and addressing climate challenges.  

NGO Bootcamp in Nigeria

09 Industry, innovation and infrastructure, 10 Reduced inequalities, 12 Responsible consumption and production, 17 Partnerships for the goalsLeave a comment

The widespread adoption of blockchain technology has been impeded by a lack of understanding and expertise in this cutting-edge field. Many organizations, including NGOs, face significant challenges in harnessing the potential of blockchain to drive positive social change. These issues were addressed in an NGO bootcamp attended by a good number of NGO personnel in Nigeria, organized in partnership with Aragon, 1inch and inputs from Mercy Corps and ActionAid Nigeria.  The event’s central focus was to understand the challenges faced by NGOs while implementing the SDGs onground and that was handled by Anuoluwapo Fashola of Mercy Corps. She highlighted issues like inefficient supply chain management, data collection, language barriers, and the management of internally displaced persons in the North East of Nigeria (her case study), emphasizing the need for technology to streamline these processes. There was also a section on the role of technology in sustainable development which was handled by Charles Petu of Action Aid. He highlighted the immense potential of technology in advancing sustainable development goals. The highlight of the event was a case study demonstration by Uyoyo Ogedegbe of Convexity Technologies showcasing their Chart solution tailored for NGOs built on the blockchain. Attendees gained insights into charts core capabilities including real-time monitoring and evaluation of distributed aid, seamless delivery of assistance to remote communities, cost reduction, enhanced flexibility and increased donor confidence. As the day progressed, the audience were thrilled by the potentials of this emerging technology which led to questions about how they can practically integrate blockchain technology into their day to day activity as Non Governmental Organizations. As the last program on the Blockchain compliance and regulation series in Nigeria, the final segment brought together a panel of experts to explore and discuss the regulatory frameworks governing blockchain technology in Nigeria and how NGOs can safely incorporate this innovative technology into their operations. This initiative has been part of the awareness campaign ‘The responsible revolution”. FAQS What is The Responsible Revolution? The Responsible Revolution” represents an open initiative, emphasizing the cultivation of ethical standards and highlighting the tangible social impact contributions within the blockchain domain. At its heart, the movement seeks to promote the application of blockchain technology in tackling urgent global issues. We want blockchain to efficiently serve society to its full potential, pushing the boundaries of the human challenges that still lie ahead. We are determined to provide support to you and all initiatives that work for the common good and human needs, whether they are social, animal welfare, or environmental. We are here because the responsibility lies in how, and we are one. Activity: NGO BOOTCAMP NIGERIA When: 26th October 2023 Where: Abuja.

Blockchain’s Role in International Development: A Comprehensive Research Study

09 Industry, innovation and infrastructure, 11 Sustainable cities and communities, 17 Partnerships for the goalsLeave a comment

Introducing Our Pioneering Research on Blockchain for International Development and Humanitarian Use Cases In today’s increasingly interconnected world, technological advancements aren’t just about faster processors or smarter devices. They are becoming vital tools in solving some of humanity’s most pressing challenges—from poverty alleviation to environmental sustainability. We are thrilled to announce the release of our groundbreaking research report that delves into the transformative role of blockchain technology in international development and humanitarian endeavors. This isn’t just another tech report. It’s a milestone that showcases our dedication to utilizing cutting-edge technology for global betterment. With a keen focus on Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL), our report serves as both a resource and a blueprint for ethical, effective, and transformative change.   See the Landing Page Here Direct Report Link Here This report elevates our standing at the confluence of disruptive blockchain technology and the lofty goals of humanitarian and internationaldevelopment work. In an arena often enamored by the next “big thing,” our dedication to leveraging technology for humanitarian causes sets us apart. Simply put, this report makes us pioneers—innovators with a conscience.   A Methodological Revolution xTraditional MEAL frameworks are robust and have been effective in guiding various humanitarian and international development projects. However, the specificities and capabilities of blockchain technology present unique challenges and opportunities that require tailored approaches. Our research enriches existing MEAL frameworks by incorporating ethical considerations and methods specifically adapted for blockchain’s social impact initiatives. This redefined approach sets new standards for professionalism and integrity, bridging the gap between traditional development practices and the emerging blockchain landscape.   Understanding the Social Impact Our research isn’t just technical jargon and theoretical discussions. It dives deep into the heart of the matter—the transformative power of blockchain in making real-world, lasting change. This report acts as a compass, directing our strategic vision and operational dynamics to maximize social impact through blockchain technologies.   The Takeaway: It’s About Our Shared Future If blockchain technology is the future, then our research report is the ethical blueprint that ensures this future is inclusive, transparent, and just. By offering evidence-based insights and innovative methodologies, we provide actionable guidance not just for blockchain enthusiasts but also for NGOs, policymakers, and anyone committed to global betterment. The partners who’ve joined us on this journey lend further credence to the gravity of our findings, and we are grateful for their support. Our research report is not just a reflection of what we do; it symbolizes who we are, what we stand for, and where we are headed. We invite you to read the report and join us in this incredible journey towards building a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable world. Together, let’s make technology the cornerstone of positive global transformation. Frontiers Technology Hub Ukaid/FCDO

Polygon Impact Care Center: Empower Your Startup

04 Quality education, 09 Industry, innovation and infrastructure, 12 Responsible consumption and production, 17 Partnerships for the goalsLeave a comment

Is your social initiative not scaling? Impact-driven blockchain startups face significant challenges when it comes to scaling their initiatives. It can be a daunting endeavor to secure funding outside of the Web3 ecosystem. The Polygon Impact Care Center aims to support startups by providing a workspace for them to explore diverse opportunities. Entrepreneurs can tap into a wealth of resources here, including insights into funding possibilities, MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, Learning) training, chances for networking with like-minded innovators, and expert technical support and mentoring as required. Our core mission is to bolster impact-driven projects built on Polygon, facilitating their growth and scalability.  The Polygon Impact Care Center utilizes a dedicated Slack channel as its primary communication platform. Within this channel, startups gain direct access to designated representatives from Polygon and Impact Plus, as well as the opportunity to network with each other. The Slack channel includes multiple tabs housing tracks that founders and entrepreneurs can join. The Slack channel will be overseen by a designated team member of Impact Plus. We aim to host at least two live sessions per month. Find more information about the specific tracks and how the Care Center works on the official website.     Are you an NGO, accelerator, university and do you want to support this initiative, find our contact on the #PolygonImpact Care Center  official website. Find out more FAQS What is The Responsible Revolution? The Responsible Revolution” represents an open initiative, emphasizing the cultivation of ethical standards and highlighting the tangible social impact contributions within the blockchain domain. At its heart, the movement seeks to promote the application of blockchain technology in tackling urgent global issues. We want blockchain to efficiently serve society to its full potential, pushing the boundaries of the human challenges that still lie ahead. We are determined to provide support to you and all initiatives that work for the common good and human needs, whether they are social, animal welfare, or environmental. We are here because the responsibility lies in how, and we are one.    

Mercy Corps Ventures Funding Application Workshop

04 Quality education, 12 Responsible consumption and production, 17 Partnerships for the goalsLeave a comment

In the midst of a crypto bear market, blockchain startups face a daunting challenge: securing funding for their innovative projects. The unpredictability and volatility of the crypto market have made it increasingly difficult for these startups to attract the necessary investments. However, in an effort to address this issue, we have teamed up with Polygon Labs to offer a unique solution: a comprehensive workshop aimed at demystifying the application process for the Mercy Corps Ventures Climate Lab’s Climate Tech Facility. This workshop is thoughtfully designed for blockchain-based initiatives operating on the Polygon network, with a clear goal: to provide valuable insights into the application process of the Mercy Corps Ventures Climate Lab’s Climate Tech Facility. During this workshop, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the critical elements related to the application process, such as: Eligibility Criteria: We’ll provide clarity on the specific criteria your project must meet to be considered for funding. Geographical Scope: Learn about the areas of impact that the Climate Tech Facility targets and the regions where your project can make a significant difference. Socio-economic Impact: Discover how your project can bring about positive changes, both socially and enviro nmentally. Available Support: Explore the resources and support networks that can help your project thrive. Funding Availability: Gain insights into the funding opportunities that may be available for your climate tech initiative Commitment Expectations from Applicants: Understand what Mercy Corps Ventures Climate Lab expects from applicants and how you can align with their mission. Application Process: Walk through the application process step by step, ensuring you can create a compelling proposal. Key Deadlines: Be aware of the essential dates to ensure that your application is submitted promptly and stands out in the selection process. By facilitating this workshop, we hope to empower blockchain startups and foster innovations that can have a lasting impact on our planet. Together, we can work towards a more sustainable future. This initiative is part of the awareness campaign “The Responsible Revolution” and represents the first open house activity of the Polygonimpact Care Center.   FAQS 1.What is the Polygon Impact Care Center The Polygon Impact Care Center is a collaborative effort between Polygon Labs and Impact Plus, designed specifically to empower impact-driven startups building on Polygon. Our mission is to provide you with the essential resources and support you need to thrive in the fast-paced world of International Development. 2. What is The Responsible Revolution? The Responsible Revolution” represents an open initiative, emphasizing the cultivation of ethical standards and highlighting the tangible social impact contributions within the blockchain domain. At its heart, the movement seeks to promote the application of blockchain technology in tackling urgent global issues. We want blockchain to efficiently serve society to its full potential, pushing the boundaries of the human challenges that still lie ahead. We are determined to provide support to you and all initiatives that work for the common good and human needs, whether they are social, animal welfare, or environmental. We are here because the responsibility lies in how, and we are one.

#Theresponsiblerevolution

09 Industry, innovation and infrastructure, 12 Responsible consumption and production, 17 Partnerships for the goalsLeave a comment

“The Responsible Revolution” represents an open initiative, emphasizing the cultivation of ethical standards and highlighting the tangible social impact contributions within the blockchain domain. At its heart, the movement seeks to promote the application of blockchain technology in tackling urgent global issues. We are committed to supporting a diverse array of social impact initiatives, from social progress and animal welfare to environmental conservation. Impact Plus’ mission extends beyond the digital realm, aiming to create connections between academia, local communities, non-governmental organizations, established institutions, and the dynamic web3 environment. This endeavor seeks to bolster credibility and foster collaboration, emphasizing the strength of collective action to rally these distinct sectors around a mutual goal.         “The Responsible Revolution” awareness campaign is multifaceted and, as a kickoff, includes, the following initiatives: A manifesto that you can endorse to enhance the prominence of your social initiatives and bolster the movement. A one-day journey during Devconnect Istanbul, providing start-ups with international development support to apply for grants among others. The launch of three bootcamps for local NGOs, simultaneously taking place in Kenya, Nigeria, and Türkiye (as part of Devconnect Istanbul). These bootcamps serve as a global initiative to empower NGOs with responsible blockchain use. The addition of two  to three Polygon Techhouses into the overarching Polygon international Techhouses program. The Polygonimpact Care Center designed to professionalize and measure the impact of social initiatives within the Polygon Ecosystem, driving social change and sustainability. The establishment of Impact Hacker houses in two African countries. Panel discussions highlighting the significance of the latest  Frontier Hub and Impact Plus MEAL studies, which  shed light on the transformative potential of blockchain technology in addressing global challenges. One-by-one assessments on Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) for social impact startups in Istanbul. A panel discussion with Cornell University on technological  innovation. …   There’s so much more on the horizon for the “Responsible Revolution.” Embark with us on this transformative expedition to sculpt the future, anchored in responsible blockchain application and profound social impact.    #ResponsibleRevolution