Polygon Impact Care Center: Empower Your Startup

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

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.

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

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    

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  

Blockchain for Rural Development (II)

In Kuje, Nigeria, we linked developers in the city to rural communities. The inclusion of disenfranchised communities in the development of technology, including blockchain, is essential. These communities have a right to access information and resources, and blockchain holds the promise of improving people’s circumstances. To ensure that this potential is realized, it is necessary to make technology accessible and safe. This requires a focus on educating and protecting people from potential risks, including crypto scams, as the lack of access to quality information makes them particularly vulnerable. We must also actively listen to the beneficiaries, understand their needs and challenges, and work with them to create solutions that truly meet their needs. Any advance in this sense empowers the community to become an active member of the blockchain ecosystem. The Kuje, Nigeria activity was managed by Web3 professional developers from Abuja who connected with +40 preselected attendees to discuss the fundamental aspects of blockchain technology and its applicability in a comprehensible and responsible manner.  Blockchain for Rural Development When: 28th January, 2023 Where: Kuje Nigeria

Chapadão Polygon TechHouse

After months of researching and refining the concept to ensure the initiative would be effective and sustainable, we opened the first Polygon Impact TechHouse at the favela of Complexo do Chapadão in Rio de Janeiro. With an estimated population of over 25,000 residents, it is considered one of the most dangerous areas in Rio. The Comando Vermelho, a drug trafficking organization, holds significant control over the favela, making it hard for foreigners to access the area and thus segregating the community and limiting its access to opportunities enjoyed by the rest of society. The Techhouse will provide a safe space for disenfranchised youth to access web3 in a neighborhood where opportunities are lacking. However, the real work starts now. We will work closely with the center to ensure that web3 community-led initiatives are systematically implemented and that the initiative is sustainable. Since the TechHouse opening ceremony, several organizations and institutions have expressed interest in supporting the initiative, including Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Ethereum Brasil, ChainLink, +1Code, and Women inTech. Coinbase coverage here. Activity:  Opening Ceremony When: January 25th, 2023 Where: Morro dos Prazeres, Complexo do Chapadão, Brazil

Blockchain for Empact Alumni of the World Food Program

The absence of access to reliable and verified information can significantly impede informed decision-making across various critical areas, including investment choices, contract negotiations, payment transactions, and the management of production processes, such as those within the food supply chain. The World Food Program Empact Alumni group from, comprising both male and female graduates, recently convened for an event aimed at acquiring a comprehensive understanding of blockchain, NFTs, and the potential of Web3 in generating social impact. During the event, attendees delved into the prospective opportunities for collaboration between the Web3 community and the World Food Program. They also examined the challenges confronting the sector, including the transformation of food systems, the establishment of transparent supply chains, and the facilitation of financial resilience among smallholder farmers. The participants collectively resolved that, as leaders, they bear a responsibility to wield their knowledge of Web3 technology responsibly. They committed to actively engage in blockchain bootcamps and hackathons in Kenya, seeking innovative solutions to address societal challenges. This proactive approach underscores their commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology for the betterment of global food security and humanitarian efforts. Activity: 101 blockchain for EMPACT ALUMNI of the WFP When: 14th December, 2022 Where: Nairobi, Kenya

Accelerating progress in remote areas

Kuje is a Local Government Area in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory known for its high population density and limited resources, resulting in socioeconomic problems such as poverty, unemployment, inadequate housing, poor access to education and healthcare, lack of infrastructure, poor waste management and environmental degradation. Efforts are being made to address these issues through community development programs and infrastructure investment. The event aimed to bring awareness as to how blockchain may accelerate progress. The attendees included local craftsmen, school teachers, students and blockchain developers. The community was introduced to concepts such as NFTs, DeFi, and smart contracts. The event serves as a foundation for future projects Impact Plus is exploring in developing communities in Nigeria. Accelerating progress in remote areas When: 09 December, 2022 Where: Kuje, Nigeria  

Exchanges with Amazonian communities

Cultural minorities, especially those in remote areas, often have limited access to information and need more resources to explore  technologies like blockchain. At our event, we aimed to bring the benefits of blockchain technology to a community deep in the Amazon rainforest. We were honored to have indigenous speakers from the community share their experiences and expertise, as well as solidity developers who have worked with small communities. A key topic of discussion was the importance of understanding carbon credits and how they can impact communities in the Amazon. More specifically, some community leaders reported that some of its members signed documents related to carbon credits without fully understanding their content. To address this issue and empower leaders in potential negotiations in this sector, Polygon and Impact Plus, in partnership with the NGO “Nossa Terra Firme,” introduced blockchain from a responsible and conscious perspective to prevent scams and fraud. This is the first of an empowerment program for communities in the Amazon region. The activity was carried out behind closed doors with the support of translators and cultural mediators to ensure respect for local sensitivity. Exchanges with Amazonian communities (Part 1 and 2) When: 03 and 10 December, 2022 Where: Rio Branco, Acre, Brazil