A Glimpse into the French Ministry Visit

Impact Plus facilitated a key meeting between the French Minister for Digital & Telecom, Jean-Noël Barrot, and Polygon Labs’ experts, Mihailo Bjelic & Antoni Martin. This meeting aimed to combine diverse expertise and innovative ideas. It was a productive and inspiring discussion focused on exploring how Polygon’s infrastructure and ecosystem can contribute to France’s role as a Web3 revolution leader.  The collaborative spirit fostered in this meeting holds promise for progressive legislation, supporting French start-ups, and advancing in the dynamic web3 space. Together, we aim to build a sustainable and inclusive digital economy, fostering a brighter future for the next internet generation. Our shared dedication to youth protection ensures technology is harnessed for positive impact, creating a safer online environment.  Activity:French Ministry of ICT Visit When:22/07/2023 Where: French ICT Ministry

Exploring Web3 Compliance and Regulations in Africa

In the ever-changing world of blockchain technology, compliance with regulations is crucial for innovation and growth. This series of events explored the rules and regulations affecting blockchain in Kenya and Nigeria, shedding light on their complexity and what they mean for those involved in the Web3 ecosystem. In Kenya, the Capital Markets (Amendment) Bill has raised questions, especially concerning cryptocurrency taxation. An event in Nairobi, attended by over 150 professionals and co-sponsored by Binance and Tether, addressed these issues. Paulo Ardoino, CTO of BitFinex Tether, gave a keynote speech emphasizing transparency, compliance, and regulation. The event also examined global cases like El Salvador and CAR, offering insights into progressive decentralized finance initiatives. In Nigeria, a Compliance and Regulation Panel Discussion attracted 83 attendees and included an introduction to blockchain technology. A panel of experts, including Ogedegbe Uyoyo, Chioma Onyekelu, Kizito Uzor, Adebayo Fabamise, and Chukwuemeka Mbaebie, discussed the importance of legal, ethical, and security standards in blockchain. The event provided a detailed look at Nigeria’s regulatory environment and how it affects daily crypto activities. The importance of understanding regulations was also highlighted in Kenya during a session hosted by Polygon Labs and Impact Plus. Local thought leaders like Sselina Onyando and Robert Muoka emphasized how Kenyan rules impact startups and NGOs using blockchain technology. The shared belief was that proper regulation is essential for a successful blockchain ecosystem. Overall, these activities emphasized the connection between compliance, regulations, and technology. By exploring blockchain’s potential within these legal frameworks, stakeholders are guided towards a sustainable and inclusive digital future. Activity: Web3 Compliance and Regulation in Africa (series) When: January 27th, July 18th, August 22nd, 2023 Where: Kenya and Nigeria

A Meeting of Minds in Uganda: Polygon DevXTour

In a gathering that brought together key players from the web3 ecosystem in Kampala, startup founders, Polygon guild representatives, and the esteemed Tony Olendo from Polygon, the conversation revolved around the transformative potential of blockchain technology, including the realm of International Development. This event featured a series of presentations by various projects, with a special spotlight on Impact Plus. Empowering Developers and the Ecosystem: One of the resounding messages of the event was the community’s emphasis on the importance of nurturing local talent and fostering a robust blockchain ecosystem. The needs identified by developers in Uganda were clear: Developer Training: The demand for comprehensive developer training programs was palpable. Participants expressed a strong desire for initiatives that equip them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the blockchain space. Access to Funding: Funding emerged as a critical requirement for local startups and developers. Creating avenues for financial support and investment is vital to catalyzing innovation. Development Centers: Inspired by the concept of a Polygon Tech House, participants recognized the value of having dedicated development centers where developers can work, collaborate, and access resources. Community Connections: The event highlighted the significance of building bridges with other web3 communities across the African continent. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing are central to driving progress. Hackathons and Support: While hackathons were seen as valuable opportunities, it was acknowledged that support should extend beyond competitions. Establishing centers where developers can access Wi-Fi, learn, and connect with peers fosters continuous growth. Highlighted Startups and Collaborators: Several startups and individuals showcased their work and potential for collaboration: Oneramp: A startup presenting innovative solutions. Agrichain: Offering blockchain solutions in agriculture. Shukuru Crypto Wallet: Innovating in the world of cryptocurrency wallets. Turkey Money Transfer: Exploring the possibilities of blockchain in financial services. In conclusion, the meeting in Kampala served as a platform to explore the untapped potential of blockchain technology in International Development. It showcased a shared commitment to empowering local talent, fostering innovation, and forging meaningful collaborations that hold the promise of transformative change in the region. As discussions continue and strategies are refined, the journey towards harnessing blockchain’s potential for good marches forward with optimism and purpose. Activity: Polygon DevXTour; A Meeting of Minds in  Kampala When: 25th June, 2023 Where: Kampala, Uganda

Blockchain technology arrives in Niger!

Moment of pride for Polygon Labs, ImpactPlus.io, and The GeoAnalytics Center as we achieved national recognition by being featured on Niger’s national television! Collaborating closely with Niger’s “Agence Nationale pour la Societe de l’Information” and led by the visionary Ibrahima Guimba-Saidou, we orchestrated a significant national workshop with the goal of bolstering the establishment of a comprehensive blockchain national strategy. 🌐🔗 This landmark event yielded several pivotal takeaways:  1. Advancing Blockchain Strategy: The workshop attendees collectively shared insights and expertise on the potential of blockchain technology to propel Niger’s development forward. The discussions encompassed crucial steps required to formulate a holistic national strategy. Collaborating with the Niger government, this strategic approach is envisioned to be complemented by progressive legislation that facilitates the adoption and growth of blockchain. The participation of key stakeholders, including Niger’s Regulatory Agency (ARCEP), tech sector luminaries (Fatiman Alher, Latifa Yari, etc.), representatives from the private sector (Zamani Telecom, Banque BSIC, etc.), and academic institutions (African Development University (A.D.U.) and Université Abdou Moumouni, etc.), played an instrumental role in shaping the discourse. 2. Engaging with International Partners: The discussions transcended borders with the active involvement of international entities, including NGOs and organizations such as UNDP, Viamo, Mercy Corps, International Rescue Committee, and Save the Children – Niger. Through this collaborative engagement, a spectrum of use cases was explored, and specific opportunities for blockchain technology to address global challenges and effect tangible, positive change were identified. Key points from the discussion include: 1.- Working with the Niger gov to develop sound, progressive legislation. 2.- Carrying out discussions with international NGOs and int’l orgs to discuss use cases 3.- Training devs and creating a strong ecosystem. 3. Nurturing the Tech Ecosystem: Demonstrating a steadfast commitment to capacity-building, Polygon Labs and ANSI Niger have set their sights on the training of local developers. This strategic endeavor aims to equip them with the skills and knowledge imperative to drive innovation within the blockchain domain. By cultivating a robust ecosystem, our shared aspiration is to pave a sustainable path for technological advancement in Niger, propelling the nation towards establishing itself as a prominent tech hub within the region.   The convergence of visionary foresight and expertise inherent in this collaboration heralds a brighter future, where technology and innovation seamlessly intertwine to catalyze progress and prosperity, not only in Niger but also beyond its borders. 🌱🌍 We eagerly anticipate continued collaboration with esteemed Polygon colleagues such as Rebecca Rettig, Stefan Renton, Tony Olendo, Nikki Phelan, Saksham Taneja, and many others, united in our shared commitment to transforming these aspirations into impactful reality!  

Global Planning Workshop at IESE

Impact Plus recently convened at IESE Business School in Barcelona, a renowned institution known for its unwavering dedication to academic excellence, values-driven leadership, and robust industry affiliations. Our visit to this esteemed institution offered a valuable platform for productive discussions with stakeholders during a week, enabling us to align with their interests and aspirations, further reinforcing our MEAL policy (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning). This engagement has empowered us to forge socially impactful initiatives fine-tuned to real-world demands. In line with our commitment to transparency, we are meticulously monitoring all initiatives developed on the Polygon network with the same purpose. Join us in our endeavor to enhance transparency within the ecosystem. Help us amplify the reach of our survey! Activity: Impact Plus Global Planning Workshop When: 22-23 May, 2023 Where: IESE, School of Business, Barcelona, Spain

International M.E.A.L Hackathon

“Hacking for trust” an international M.E.A.L Hackathon Measuring and proving the value of impact-driven projects can be a challenge, impacting their reputation and funding. To tackle these issues, wedeveloped #HackingForTrust, a solution that enhances measurement techniques and helps projects showcase their impact. The hack introduced international development and humanitarian practices to web3 builders and fostered connections among participants from the Global North and the Global South. The event was co-organized by Polygon Labs, Impact Plus, and Georgetown University, and brought together participants from Brazil, Kenya, and Nigeria, as well as Georgetown students. One of the key objectives was to familiarize participants with Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning methodologies, as well as to create awareness on properly creating governance mechanisms, establishing identities and ensuring ethical values are integrated in design methodologies CarbonVerifier (Brazil): This smart contract solution analyzes sensor data against predetermined thresholds, ensuring that carbon credits are only minted if a company meets emissions standards. This promotes accountability and encourages companies to reduce their carbon footprint proactively. Polygon Circular Community (Kenya): This Decentralized Autonomous Organization (DAO) aimsto support farmers in underserved regions of East Africa by providing financial assistance and investment opportunities. By integrating blockchain technologies such as Aave on Polygon and 1inch Fusion, the project enhances liquidity, facilitates Meta Swaps, and promotes financial inclusion. EcoWattX (Nigeria): Focusing on economic growth, financial inclusion, and social equity, Blockware’s blockchain solutions offer education, job matching, and fast financial services. The BWT token enables cross-border transactions and supports upcoming projects for transparent food supply chains and decentralized energy The judges were divided into two teams. The first team consisted of international development experts led by Raquel Suárez from Impact Plus and Ryo Ragland from the World Food Program. The second team, led by Eduard Antuña Ligero and Jesús Ligero (both Polygon ZKevm experts), assessed the technical aspects of the hack. We are grateful for the support we have received from Polygon throughout the event, not only from the judges but also from other core units. Significantly, the hackathon took a step towards self-sustainability, thanks to funding from 1Inch, MetaMask, and Aragon (and support from local organisations such as Convexity & Moringa school). Satisfied with the Hackathon, Georgetown has invited Polygon Labs & Impact Plus to run its Data Conference in September (the blockchain track)! The follow-up hackathon is scheduled for September, coinciding with the United Nations General Assembly.   Activity: Hacking for Trust When: 28-30 April, 2023 Where: Brazil, Kenya, Nigeria, and the USA    

Blockchain for Impact at Harvard Belfer Center

The Blockchain for Impact Workshop, a groundbreaking event that took place on April 25th, was hosted at Harvard University’s prestigious Belfer Center, renowned as one of the world’s foremost think tanks. The workshop was a pivotal component of the Technology and Public Purpose Project, an initiative aimed at exploring the intersection of technology and societal advancement. Throughout the day-long workshop, participants engaged in insightful discussions that delved deeply into the transformative power of blockchain technology within three vital spheres: (1) International Development, (2) Public Goods, and (3) Regenerative Economy. These domains were explored through the lens of blockchain’s potential to catalyze positive social change and drive meaningful impact on a global scale. The event’s success was attributed, in no small part, to the efforts of Impact Plus, the driving force behind the workshop’s organization. Impact Plus orchestrated a series of thought-provoking panel discussions, each featuring luminaries and domain experts from distinguished institutions such as Harvard, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). However, the discourse extended beyond academia, with vibrant contributions from burgeoning start-ups like Polygon Labs and trailblazers in the realm of layer one protocols. Amidst the intellectual fervor, a particularly noteworthy highlight was a captivating lecture presented by the Ministry of Digital Affairs from Taiwan. The lecture centered on the theme “Web3 as a Digital Public Good in Taiwan,” offering a unique international perspective on how blockchain technology can revolutionize governance and enhance public services. This distinctive insight provided a global context, enriching the discourse with an understanding of the diverse ways in which blockchain can shape the future of governments and societies. The Blockchain for Impact Workshop stood as a testament to the potency of collaborative endeavors at the nexus of academia, industry, and government. With its multifaceted exploration of blockchain’s potential to usher in positive change across critical domains, the workshop not only expanded intellectual horizons but also kindled a sense of collective responsibility to harness technology for the greater good. As the sun set on the event, participants departed with a renewed sense of purpose, armed with insights that held the promise of shaping a more equitable and impactful future.  

Favela’s Polygon TechHouse open day in Brazil

Polygon TechHouse’s open day event, held within the Complexo do Chapadão favela in Rio de Janeiro, presents a compelling case study for examining technology’s role in marginalized communities. This event showcased a series of workshops and activities aimed at demonstrating the practical applications of technology and its potential to foster community development. The context of Complexo do Chapadão, characterized by historical marginalization and limited access to resources, provides a pertinent backdrop for understanding the implications of such initiatives. Polygon TechHouse’s event leveraged technology as a catalyst for knowledge dissemination and skill acquisition among participants. This facet is noteworthy given the barriers to education and opportunity faced by marginalized communities. An analytical lens reveals the event’s significance in terms of social impact and empowerment. By offering workshops targeting various age groups, the event aimed to equip participants with skills relevant to contemporary technological landscapes. The potential social and economic implications of upskilling within marginalized contexts intersect with theories of human capital development and social mobility. The event’s effectiveness can also be evaluated from the perspective of participatory development. The collaborative approach adopted by the Polygon TechHouse, involving the local community in event planning and execution, resonates with established principles of participatory community development. This aspect showcases the potential for public-private collaborations to drive sustainable interventions. Central to the event’s narrative is the emphasis on information access and knowledge democratization. The workshops underscored the role of technology as an enabler of information dissemination, which aligns with theories surrounding digital inclusion and information equity. Within marginalized communities, equitable access to information holds implications for bridging socio-economic gaps and promoting inclusivity. The collaboration between Polygon TechHouse and community stakeholders presents an intriguing avenue for analysis. This dynamic exemplifies public-private partnerships within the context of technology diffusion, particularly in non-traditional settings. Examining the interplay between technology enterprises and marginalized communities contributes to a nuanced understanding of technology’s potential to drive localized development. In conclusion, the open day event  underscores the transformative role of technology within marginalized communities. This case study illustrates how technology can be harnessed to bridge knowledge gaps, empower individuals, and foster participatory community development. An academic analysis of this event reveals insights into the complex interplay between technology, education, community collaboration, and socio-economic progress. Further exploration of similar initiatives could yield valuable insights into effective approaches for leveraging technology in marginalized contexts. What: TechHouse Open Day Where: Polygon TechHouse, Complexo do Chapadao When: 27th March, 2023  

EthDenver 2023, reinforcing M.E.A.L

ETHDenver, the world’s largest and longest-running annual Blockchain/Web3 event grew 50% this 2023 year, recording its largest attendance in history with a total of 48,000 (15,000 unique) from 115 countries. The Festival provides mentors, resources and educational content to assist in teaching, connecting and expanding all attendees’ involvement in the space. As anticipated since the previous year, the interest in utilizing blockchain technology for socially impactful applications has surged with evidence in 2023, firmly establishing it as a central theme within the ecosystem’s narrative. This trend has prompted the allocation of a dedicated conference section in 2023, wholly focused on exploring the realm of social impact. In this context, Impact Plus received an invitation from the event organizers to occupy a prominent space, enabling us to effectively raise awareness about the manifold potential applications of blockchain technology in addressing pressing social challenges. This strategic positioning allowed for the dissemination of the M.E.A.L framework (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning), which played an instrumental role in this dialogue. The issue of inadequate monitoring and the daunting challenge of substantiating tangible outcomes within blockchain initiatives is emerging as apivotal concern for the sector’s future trajectory. Within this landscape, Impact Plus leverages its specialized knowledge in international development to address these critical issues, filling a crucial void in the realm of blockchain-driven social impact initiatives. The conference’s invitation underscores the synergy between Impact Plus’s expertise and the event’s overarching mission, facilitating a seamless integration of blockchain technology into effective social problem-solving frameworks. Impact Plus left an indelible mark on the conference, fostering connections that transcended borders and ignited inspiration. Through their engaging panel discussion on blockchain’s role in international development, Impact Plus solidifies their position as thought leaders, championing the power of decentralized technology to address critical and humanitarian needs. Their booth and networking endeavors create a dynamic space for collaboration, fostering meaningful exchanges and paving the way for future partnerships in the Ethereum ecosystem. ETHDenver, renowned for its role in catalyzing innovation and fostering vibrant community engagement, serves as an ideal platform for spotlighting the amalgamation of blockchain technology and socially transformative endeavors. The conference not only draws a diverse global audience but also provides a conducive environment for fostering in-depth conversations regarding the tangible and positive shifts that blockchain can catalyze in real-world contexts. This alignment between technological advancement and societal betterment underscores the dynamic evolution of the blockchain ecosystem, firmly establishing ETHDenver as a pivotal nexus in shaping the trajectory of this revolutionary technology. Here are some projects that were presented in this 2023: onepager_mesuring it1 (1) (1) Impact Plus – TechHouses Impact Plus – Social Impact Summit Impact Plus – Social impact incubator Impact Plus – Minorities Program (2)   Activity: EthDenver When: 1-5 March, 2023 Where: Denver, USA

Society for International Development Roundtable

The Society for International Development Roundtable held on February 28, 2023, in Washington D.C., USA, marked a pivotal moment for Impact Plus. Impact Plus, in its journey towards becoming a trusted resource for the global development community, embarked on a significant step by forging robust connections with USAID (United States Agency for International Development) and its prominent implementing partners, including Chemonics, Creative, and DAI. This collaboration not only expanded the organization’s reach and influence but also solidified its position as a beacon of expertise in the blockchain field. The Journey Towards Credibility: Impact Plus recognized that credibility and exposure in the international development arena are pivotal to effecting meaningful change. USAID is renowned for its commitment to improving the human condition globally, and its implementing partners have a profound impact on the ground. Thus, establishing ties with these influential entities was a game-changer for Impact Plus. The half-day workshop at the Society for International Development Roundtable became the platform for setting this collaborative endeavor into motion. The event facilitated open discussions, knowledge sharing, and relationship building between blockchain experts, Impact Plus, and key representatives from USAID and its implementing partners. One of the primary objectives of the workshop was to create a space for the exchange of insights and expertise. Blockchain technology, with its potential to revolutionize data management, supply chain logistics, and payment processes, is of significant interest in the realm of international development. By providing a forum for attendees to share their knowledge and experiences, the workshop contributed to expanding the understanding of how blockchain can be harnessed to address the pressing challenges of global development. This event was more than just a one-off occasion; it laid the foundation for long-lasting relationships between blockchain organizations and the USAID ecosystem. Through open dialogue and engagement, the workshop established connections that have the potential to foster future partnerships, research endeavors, and collaborative projects. The impact of such collaborations is poised to ripple through the global development landscape, offering innovative solutions to age-old problems. The partnership between Impact Plus and USAID, solidified during the Society for International Development Roundtable workshop, signifies a significant step forward in harnessing the potential of blockchain technology for international development. By developing connections with influential institutions and facilitating knowledge exchange, Impact Plus has furthered its mission of becoming a trusted resource in the field. As the Responsible Revolution continues to shape the future of global development, such collaborations serve as beacons of hope for a brighter, more equitable world.