The Innovation Civilization Podcast

In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Benji Leibowitz, Chief Operating Officer at Molecule and Co-Founder of Pump.Science. Benji is at the forefront of the Decentralized Science (DeSci) movement, which utilizes blockchain technology to democratize research funding and empower scientific communities.   Benji Leibowitz has a diverse background in academic research, investment banking, venture capital, and computational biology research and development. At Molecule, he plays a pivotal role in creating a decentralized biotech protocol that connects researchers with funding opportunities through Web3 technologies. Additionally, he leads Pump.Science, a Solana-native DeSci funding platform aimed at gamifying and broadening participation in scientific research. ​   In This Episode, We Explore: • The Challenges in Traditional Science Funding: How centralized funding models limit innovation and how DeSci proposes to address these issues. • The Role of Blockchain in DeSci: Why blockchain is considered the ideal technology for decentralizing scientific research and funding.​ • Introduction to Molecule and Pump.Science: An overview of these platforms and how they aim to revolutionize the way scientific research is funded and conducted.​ • Engaging the Broader Community: How platforms like Pump.Science are gamifying research funding to involve a wider audience in scientific discovery.​ • Advice for Researchers: Encouragement and guidance for scientists interested in exploring decentralized models for their work.​   Key Takeaways: 1. Decentralization Empowers Researchers: By leveraging blockchain technology, researchers can access funding sources beyond traditional institutions, fostering innovation.​ 2. Community Engagement is Crucial: Decentralized platforms enable public participation in scientific research, increasing transparency and trust.​ 3. Blockchain Ensures Transparency: The immutable nature of blockchain records enhances the credibility and reproducibility of scientific findings.​ 4. Gamification Attracts Participation: Introducing game-like elements to research funding can make science more accessible and engaging to the public.​ 5. Future of DeSci: Decentralized Science holds the potential to accelerate scientific discoveries by democratizing access to funding and resources.​   Timestamps: (00:00) - Intro (01:27) - What is decentralized science, and how does it challenge traditional research models? (03:25) - What inefficiencies in traditional science does decentralized science aim to solve? (05:31) - How is decentralized science redefining intellectual property in research and innovation? (12:18) - In today’s fast-moving biotech landscape, does drug exclusivity still hold up for 20 years? (19:18) - Are early-stage anti-aging drugs the future of longevity science? (24:09) - How does decentralized science ensure research credibility and scientific rigor? (26: 08) - In a world of fractionalized IP, how do researchers protect and govern their innovations? (31:53) - Is decentralized science a revolution or just another crypto scam? (33:47) - Can long-term scientific research thrive in the fast-paced, hype-driven crypto market? (44:42) - How can decentralized science integrate with traditional research institutions and publishing models? (47:44) – What career paths and recognition exist for researchers in decentralized science?   Join us for this insightful discussion with Benji Leibowitz as we delve into how decentralization and blockchain technology are transforming the scientific research ecosystem.   Follow our host on Linkedln to know more or subscribe to our emailing list to get new episodes directly into your inbox.

In this episode, part of our brand new Emerging Market Innovation Series, we sat down with Soumitra Dutta, Dean of the Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford. He's an expert on global innovation and the author of the Global Innovation Index, which is used by governments and institutions worldwide to shape innovation policy.  We're also joined by a friend of the pod, Hafidzi Razali who's the Founder and CEO of Strategic Counsel, who's an expert on policy-making in South-east Asia and beyond. Innovation is often seen as the driving force behind economic growth, but how can emerging markets build successful innovation ecosystems? We explore the key ingredients required to foster innovation at a national level. Soumitra Dutta has worked at the intersection of academia, business, and policy, serving as the Dean of leading business schools and advising governments on how to create innovation-driven economies. He shares key insights on how emerging markets can learn from global success stories and adapt them to their own unique environments. We dive deep into: • Defining Innovation: How innovation differs from invention and why successful market adoption is key. • National Innovation Strategies: Why political leadership plays a crucial role in fostering innovation. • The Role of Governments: How government policies, procurement, and infrastructure investments can catalyze innovation. • Emerging Market Leadership: Lessons from countries like Singapore, China, and Finland on transforming national economies. • The Role of Talent: Why attracting, developing, and retaining skilled professionals is critical for sustainable innovation. • Measuring Innovation: A breakdown of the Global Innovation Index and how emerging markets can climb the rankings. • Collaboration vs. Competition: Why innovation thrives in open, knowledge-sharing ecosystems. Key Takeaways from the Episode: 1. Innovation Requires Strong Leadership: Countries that successfully foster innovation have strong political leadership that prioritizes R&D, education, and infrastructure. 2. Government as an Enabler: From providing financial incentives to setting up digital infrastructure, how governments can play a key role in ensuring businesses and entrepreneurs can innovate effectively. 3. Why Emerging Markets Need a Unique Strategy: Instead of mimicking Silicon Valley, emerging markets must leverage their strengths, such as market-driven innovations and regulatory flexibility. 4. The Importance of Talent & Immigration: Nations that attract and retain top talent consistently outperform others in innovation. Policies that make it easier for skilled professionals to relocate can accelerate growth. 5. Learning from China & Singapore: China’s strategic long-term investment in innovation and Singapore’s structured approach to attracting businesses provide models that other emerging markets can adapt. 6. Infrastructure as a Foundation: A strong innovation ecosystem needs reliable digital and physical infrastructure, including roads, internet connectivity, and financial systems. 7. The Power of KPIs and Measurement: Innovation must be measured effectively—governments should not just aim to climb rankings but use metrics to improve their weakest links. 8. Open Innovation & Collaboration: The best innovation economies prioritize knowledge-sharing and open-source development over isolationist policies. Timestamps: (00:00) – Introduction to Soumitra Dutta and the Emerging Market Innovation Series (02:10) – What is innovation? Breaking down invention vs. market adoption (05:30) – Why and what kind of government policies are critical for innovation success (10:20) – Lessons from Singapore, China, and Finland on scaling innovation (18:45) – How to achieve leadership & cross-ministry collaboration in national innovation (25:10) – How AI and blockchain are reshaping innovation ecosystems at national levels (30:40) – The importance of attracting top talent to drive innovation (36:50) – Measuring innovation: How the Global Innovation Index works (42:30) – The need for systemic change to improve education, healthcare, and digital infrastructure (50:10) – Why collaboration is more important than competition in driving innovation (56:30) – Closing thoughts and final advice for emerging market leaders Join us in this compelling discussion with Soumitra Dutta, where we uncover the building blocks of national innovation ecosystems and how emerging markets can thrive in the new global economy. Follow our host on Linkedln to know more or subscribe to our emailing list to get new episodes directly into your inbox. This episode is part of the Emerging Market Innovation Series, produced in collaboration with Strategic Counsel.

Daniel Eriksson, former CEO of Transparency International, champions the fight against corruption with over 100 countries' experience. He dissects various forms of corruption and emphasizes the necessity of advocacy for real change. The conversation highlights the troubling asset losses from the Global South enabled by wealth-laundering nations. Eriksson also discusses how emerging technologies, like AI and blockchain, can enhance transparency. Ukraine's digital reforms during wartime emerge as a success story, showcasing resilience against entrenched corrupt systems.

Dr. Rumman Chowdhury, US Science Envoy for AI and a leading expert in responsible AI, dives deep into the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. She discusses the dangers of AI bias and misinformation, revealing how generative models can fabricate information. Dr. Chowdhury emphasizes the urgent need for independent audits and AI governance to prevent unchecked tech dominance. She also shares practical strategies for businesses to innovate responsibly while ensuring ethical practices, particularly for AI startups.

Faisal Ali Rashid, Sr. Director at the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, shares insights on Dubai's ambitious sustainability goals aimed at achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. He outlines the integration of renewable energy strategies and demand-side management, highlighting a current mix of 25% renewable energy. Along with sustainability advisor Tushar Narula, they discuss innovative public-private partnerships fueling green projects like the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, and emphasize the crucial role of community involvement and youth leadership in shaping a sustainable future.

Denis Noble, Professor Emeritus of Cardiovascular Physiology at the University of Oxford, is a trailblazer in systems biology. He critiques the gene-centric models that have dominated biology for decades, advocating instead for a holistic view that considers the interplay between genes and environment. Noble discusses the limitations of AI in replicating biological complexity and challenges Neo-Darwinism's framework. He also emphasizes the importance of epigenetics and interconnectedness in understanding evolution, health, and personal well-being.

In this enlightening discussion, Bryan Johnson, a multi-millionaire entrepreneur and founder of 'Don't Die,' unveils his mission to extend human life through advanced health tracking. He explores how AI can revolutionize decision-making and human longevity, sharing insights into the ethical dilemmas that arise. Bryan also delves into the significance of emotional wellness, societal shifts toward healthier living, and the personal journey of transformation. His revolutionary 'Blueprint' initiative promises to automate healthier lifestyle choices, creating a future where longevity is prioritized.

Mark Boggett, CEO of Seraphim Space and a pioneer in space venture capital, shares his insights on democratizing access to space technology. He details his journey from technology investment to establishing Europe's largest space fund, emphasizing the potential of space tech to address climate change and transform industries. Boggett discusses the rise of miniaturized satellites and the need for innovative solutions in sustainability. He also navigates the ethical and regulatory landscape, highlighting the importance of global competition in the evolving space market.

Toby Coppel, Founder and General Partner at Mosaic Ventures, has a wealth of experience in the tech world, having worked with firms like Netscape, AOL, and Yahoo. In this discussion, he reveals insights from multiple AI innovation waves, focusing on investment strategies in machine learning applications. Toby underscores the importance of hands-on support for startups and delves into the ethical considerations of AI, its impact on jobs, and the regulatory landscape. He shares thoughts on AI's future, highlighting the balance between innovation and accountability.

We're joined by Ash Arora, a Partner at LocalGlobe, to discuss the intricacies of venture capital, blockchain, AI investments, and market dynamics. LocalGlobe, one of the leading early-stage venture capital firms in Europe, ranked #1 early stage fund in EMEA and #3 globally with highest number of unicorns in portfolio, with companies like SoRare, Copper, Robinhood, Wise, Figma, Twitter and LP in a16z, Sequoia etc. Ash shares insights into what sets LocalGlobe apart in the competitive VC landscape, including their comprehensive 52-parameter framework for evaluating investment opportunities and the unique support structure they offer to startups. Ash takes us through the specifics of their blockchain investments, highlighting significant successes such as Sorare, Copper, and Improbable. She explains the importance of due diligence, the unique value-add LocalGlobe provides post-investment, and their strategic approach to both pre-seed and growth-stage funding. The conversation also explores the current market conditions, comparing them to past tech cycles and discussing the resilience of early-stage investments amidst broader market slowdowns. Ash provides her perspective on the impact of tech layoffs and the dynamics of acquiring talent in a fluctuating market. In a detailed discussion on AI, Ash outlines LocalGlobe's broad investment strategy, covering everything from semiconductors to AI applications. She shares thoughts on the future of AI in the venture capital landscape, emphasizing the irreplaceable human touch in evaluating and supporting founders. Ash's expertise in blockchain is evident as she discusses the state of the market, the potential of DeFi, and the future of blockchain technology. She also touches on the regulatory environment and the importance of innovation-friendly policies. Below is a quick synopsis of all the topics we cover: Venture Capital Dynamics: How LocalGlobe maintains its edge with a unique evaluation framework and extensive founder support. Blockchain Investments: Key insights into successful blockchain investments and the future potential of blockchain technology. Market Conditions and Talent Acquisition: Analysis of current market trends and the impact on talent acquisition in tech. AI Investments: LocalGlobe's strategic approach to AI investments, from foundational models to application layers. Regulatory Environment: The role of regulation in fostering or stifling innovation in blockchain and AI. Join us for a comprehensive discussion as we explore the intersection of venture capital, blockchain, AI, and market trends with one of the industry's leading experts. Follow our host, Waheed Nabeel (@iwaheedo), for more updates on tech, civilizational growth, progress studies, and emerging markets. Here are the timestamps for the episode. On some podcast players, you should be able to click the timestamp for the episode.   (00:00) - Intro (02:39) - Ash Arora's background and role at LocalGlobe (04:40) - LocalGlobe's unique investment criteria and framework (10:23) - Supporting startups post-investment (13:11) - Investment stages and focus areas (15:24) - Current market conditions and tech layoffs (23:12) - AI investment strategy and market mapping (28:08) - The future of AI and its impact on VC (34:07) - Blockchain market analysis and investment thesis (38:29) - Layer 2 solutions and blockchain infrastructure (46:25) - Meme coins and market dynamics (48:46) - Regulation in blockchain and AI (50:06) - Intersection of AI and blockchain (51:45) - Outro   Full Disclaimer:  The views, opinions, and thoughts expressed by the guest in this communication are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosting entity or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The hosting entity and its affiliates do not endorse, recommend, or assume any responsibility for any investment decisions made based on the information provided. Always seek the advice of a qualified financial advisor before making any financial decisions.