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:

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.    

#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  

Exploring Web3 Compliance and Regulations in Africa

04 Quality education, 09 Industry, innovation and infrastructure, 12 Responsible consumption and production, 16 Peace, justice and strong institutionsLeave a comment

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

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

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

Global Planning Workshop at IESE

09 Industry, innovation and infrastructure, 17 Partnerships for the goalsLeave a comment

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

04 Quality education, 09 Industry, innovation and infrastructure, 11 Sustainable cities and communitiesLeave a comment

“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