Crypto Altruists: Real-World Stories of Social & Environmental Impact with Web3

In episode 137, we’re excited to welcome Timothy Asiiwme, Innovation Project Manager at Mercy Corps Ventures, which invests in and catalyzes venture-led solutions to increase the resilience of underserved individuals and communities. We discuss how Web3 solutions can help alleviate poverty and build resilient communities, the role of impact entrepreneurs in addressing important social challenges, some of the incredible Web3 pilots Mercy Corps Ventures has supported, and much more.--Three Key Takeaways--Mercy Corps Ventures is guided by their Resilient Futures Thesis which sees technology as an important force for change in three areas: adaptive agriculture and food systems, inclusive fintech, and climate smart technologies. Many of their pilots have used Web3 and other emerging technologies to bring about positive disruption in these three areas.One area that blockchain can really shine, is in reducing settlement times. For example, in one of the pilots supported by Mercy Corps Ventures, that delivers crop insurance to smallholder farmers, they were able to reduce the payout time of insurance claims by 97% by automating the process with smart contracts.By lowering transaction costs, reducing settlement times, increasing transparency in financial systems, and increasing access to financial tools, blockchain can unlock opportunities for underserved communities that didn’t exist before, helping to drive financial inclusion and build more resilient communities.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruism-podcast-episode-137-mercy-corps-ventures-empowering-visionary-tech-entrepreneurs-to-deliver-impact-at-scale--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER --While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More on the disclaimer at cryptoaltruism.org.Please note: we may make use of affiliate marketing to provide readers with referrals to high quality and relevant products and services.

In episode 136, we’re excited to welcome Max Howell of Tea Protocol, a decentralized protocol that “enhances the sustainability and integrity of the software supply chain by allowing open-source developers to capture the value they create in a trustless manner.” We discuss some of the challenges faced by open-source builders, the role of blockchain in building a sustainable open-source ecosystem, their novel proof of contribution consensus mechanism, and much more.--Three Key Takeaways--Open-source software developers play a vital role in the advancement of technology, including the development of a lot of the foundational architecture behind Web3. These individuals  deserve to be compensated for these vital contributions to humanity.Tea Protocol’s novel “Proof of Contribution” consensus mechanism will help ensure all those who contribute to open-source software can be fairly rewarded based on the impact they have created.It’s all about incentives. Considering all the incredible achievements that have been accomplished by a relatively small community of largely volunteer open-source builders, it will be exciting to see what will happen when effective incentivization mechanisms are implemented into the open-source ecosystem.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruism-podcast-episode-136-tea-protocol-decentralized-funding-for-a-sustainable-open-source-software-ecosystem--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--This episode was recorded on Zencastr!--Interested in starting your own podcast? Use my special link to save 30% off your first month of any Zencastr paid plan. Alternatively, head to zencastr.com/pricing and use my code "CryptoAltruism".Please note: we make use of affiliate marketing to provide readers with referrals to high quality and relevant products and services.--DISCLAIMER --While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More on the disclaimer at cryptoaltruism.org.

In episode 135, we’re excited to welcome Sam Flanagan and Abeera Akhtar from Web3ForGood for a very special 2023 year in review episode. 2023 was an incredible year for the Web3 social impact movement, and in this episode, we reflect on the most exciting developments of 2023, whether it be the growth of L2s or the AI blockchain intersection, and what we are most looking forward to in 2024 in the space.--Key Takeaways--2023 was a year where the Web3 for good movement shifted from aspirations to impact. This was supported by a growth in the public goods funding ecosystem, more tools for impact monitoring, and a focus on meeting people where they’re at with accessible solutions.This increased focus on impact has been aligned with a focus on local impact, and ensuring local communities, especially those in the global south, are included in the conversation and provided equal opportunities in the space.Whereas 2023 was the year of Artificial Intelligence, a key trend in 2024 will be the relationship between AI and blockchain, including how blockchain can support the responsible development of AI while protecting users.A key theme in 2023 was the growth of L2 solutions and the shift of L1 blockchains becoming L2s. In 2024, it will be interesting to see how these different L2s work together and define their unique value propositions.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruism-podcast-episode-135-2023-web3-social-impact-year-in-review-featuring-web3forgood--Crypto Altruism runs on the support of community members like yourself! Help us grow the movement by supporting us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER --While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More on the disclaimer at cryptoaltruism.org.Please note: we may make use of affiliate marketing to provide readers with referrals to high quality and relevant products and services.

In episode 134, we’re excited to welcome Michelle Baldwin and Rowan Yeoman of SuperBenefit DAO, a movement dedicated to developing the social and financial flywheels that enable the invention and acceleration of a better world. They research and incubate initiatives that harness Web3 in pursuit of systems transformation. We discuss how blockchain enables systems transformation, how Web3 tools can empower traditional NGOs, DAOs as a powerful tool for social change, some of the projects they’ve helped incubate, and much more.--Three Key Takeaways--As the world faces pressing environmental and economic challenges, urgent change is needed to secure a better future. However, we lack the coordination tools to enact this change, especially considering the overlap and intersections between complex systems. Web3 introduces new incentivization mechanisms and coordination tools to help address this gap.The cement is still drying in Web3, providing a unique opportunity to implement positive values and practices directly into the foundation of the technology and culture. This has resulted in an ecosystem that embraces innovation and experimentation, and is primed to disrupt almost every traditional system.When developing DAO infrastructure, a common approach to take is “progressive decentralization” – starting with a centralized organization built by a smaller group, and then shifting to decentralization as the project scales. As an alternative, it can be valuable for new DAOs to smart small by experimenting with decentralization models & tools, and scaling those as the DAO grows. At the same time, it’s okay to implement mixed models that incorporate --Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruism-podcast-episode-134-superbenefit-dao-leveraging-blockchain-to-enable-radical-systems-transformation--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--This episode was recorded on Zencastr!--Interested in starting your own podcast? Use my special link to save 30% off your first month of any Zencastr paid plan. Alternatively, head to zencastr.com/pricing and use my code "CryptoAltruism".Please note: we make use of affiliate marketing to provide readers with referrals to high quality and relevant products and services.--DISCLAIMER --While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More on the disclaimer at cryptoaltruism.org.

In episode 133, we’re excited to welcome Will Le, CEO of impactMarket, the human empowerment protocol, which provides accessible financial solutions and knowledge to empower underprivileged people worldwide, unlocking opportunities and human potential. We discuss how blockchain enables more transparent and effective microcredit programs, their innovative Learn & Earn Program, decentralized unconditional basic income for the last mile, and much more.--Three Key Takeaways--Microcredit & UBI projects are really hard to do right, as they face a lot of financial frictions and challenges with transparency & efficiency. While the concept behind these programs is great, it’s the delivery that is often the problem. By removing intermediaries and bringing all transactions on-chain, it can go a long way in removing financial frictions and creating more transparent and efficient programs.“Necessity breeds innovation.” It can be valuable to build solutions in communities where they are needed most. When doing so, it’s important to learn from the local expertise and actively engage the community in the development of the programs.One of the biggest challenges in the delivery of financial services to the last mile is that many participants lack proof of identity and credit histories. By bringing all of their programs on-chain, impactMarket is helping participants develop on-chain reputations which can help them access other programs & services.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruism-podcast-episode-133-impactmarket-decentralizing-financial-services-for-the-last-mile-with-blockchain--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER --While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More on the disclaimer at cryptoaltruism.org.Please note: we may make use of affiliate marketing to provide readers with referrals to high quality and relevant products and services.

In episode 132, we’re excited to welcome Shannon Lanigan and Michael Lewkowitz of All in For Sport, a public goods funding initiative to support projects that advance inclusion and empowerment through sport. We discuss the power of decentralized funding in sports, DAOs as a tool to empower communities, how Web3 can shift power dynamics & drive inclusion, and much more.--Three Key Takeaways--By embracing DAO architecture, it allows organizations to examine everything through a decentralized lens, while ensuring they stay true to the values and ethos of the organization.By taking a community-first approach to implementing projects, it helps ensure the longevity of the project. By taking this approach, it will empower the community to take greater ownership of the project, supporting its long-term maintenance and development.Sports facilities are more than just a facility, they are a space to bring the community together, drive inclusion, and ultimately build healthier communities.--Full shownotes with links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruism-podcast-episode-132-all-in-for-sport-empwering-community-driven-sports-initiatives-with-web3--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--This episode was recorded on Zencastr!--Interested in starting your own podcast? Use my special link to save 30% off your first month of any Zencastr paid plan. Alternatively, head to zencastr.com/pricing and use my code "CryptoAltruism".Please note: we make use of affiliate marketing to provide readers with referrals to high quality and relevant products and services.--DISCLAIMER --While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More on the disclaimer at cryptoaltruism.org.

For the seventh episode of The Web3 Nonprofit, we’re excited to welcome Jon Behar, Strategic Advisor of The Life You Can Save, a nonprofit on a mission to “make “smart giving simple” by curating a group of nonprofits that save or improve the most lives per dollar.” We dive into how they’re leveraging Web3 to advance this mission, and their upcoming Quadratic Funding round on Gitcoin’s Grant Stack!--This episode is brought to you by Endaoment--In this high-energy episode of The Web3 Nonprofit, we're revving up for a season of purpose and passion. As we explore the intersection of technology and philanthropy, Endaoment.org invites you to experience giving like never before. Accelerate your impact by visiting app.endaoment.org, and join a community where generosity goes full throttle. Ready, set, give! --Three Key Takeaways--Web3 and AI can help nonprofits become more “effective altruists” by enabling them to do more with less. These technologies open the door for nonprofits to drastically increase their efficiency & productivity, freeing up more time to focus on their mission.The Life You Can Save’s Quadratic Funding round gives the community a greater say in how funds are distributed across their cause funds. It’s a great example of how Web3 can drive community engagement and give donors more ownership over the causes they care about. Nonprofits do not have to embark on their Web3 journey alone. There are many great Web3 projects that have built easy-to-implement solutions for nonprofits. By partnering with these projects, nonprofits can focus on their mission, not on having to build Web3 tools.--Full shownotes and links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/the-web3-nonprofit-episode-7-the-life-you-can-save--Donate to The Life You Can Save--https://www.thelifeyoucansave.org/best-charities/--DISCLAIMER --While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More on the disclaimer at cryptoaltruism.org.

For episode 131, we celebrate Giving Season with a special Giving Tuesday episode! We welcome five incredible leaders from the crypto giving movement to share how they are leveraging Web3 technology to revolutionize giving, including Robbie Heeger from Endaoment, Zoe Nawar of The Giving Block, Mitch from Giveth, Steven Aguiar from Givepact, and Chauncey St. John from Better Giving!--Support our Gitcoin Grants Proposal--Crypto Altruism is live on Gitcoin Grants Round 19! We would be honored to earn your support with a small contribution!-> https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/gg19--Three Key Takeaways--One of the key benefits of engaging with crypto giving is the opportunity to connect with a new generation of donors around the world who are generous and passionate about giving.Web3 is helping make important philanthropic tools, like endowments, donor advised funds, and non-cash assets, accessible to all nonprofits regardless of their size and expertise. Traditionally, these tools have only been accessible to larger nonprofits that have the resources and expertise to dedicate to them, but Web3 is breaking down these barriers to access.One of the most exciting aspects of crypto philanthropy is the creation of new ways to incentivize giving and make it more fun. This includes leveraging Quadratic Funding, introducing rewards for donors, bringing donations on chain, and more!--Full shownotes with links and timestamps available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/crypto-altruism-podcast-episode-131-giving-tuesday-special--Support us with a Fiat or Crypto contribution--Learn more at cryptoaltruism.org/supportus--DISCLAIMER --While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More on the disclaimer at cryptoaltruism.org.Please note: we make use of affiliate marketing to provide readers with referrals to high quality and relevant products and services.

Aurélia Le frapper, Co-Founder of No Impunity, discusses using blockchain for impact litigation funding, tokenizing claims for accessibility, involving communities through DAOs, empowering marginalized communities through partnerships, upcoming digital collection for fundraising, and engaging in the ambassador program.

For the sixth episode of The Web3 Nonprofit, we’re excited to welcome Coleen Chase and Jon Ruth of The Solar Foundation, a nonprofit with a mission to fund and accelerate off-grid solar for underserved communities in emerging markets. They believe that decentralized clean energy is a public good and are exploring how blockchain can help make this a reality.--This episode is brought to you by Endaoment--Endaoment.org is a proud supporter of Crypto Altruism's Web3 Nonprofit series. This week, dive into the Universal Impact Pool (UIP), an innovative automatic matching fund which amplifies every onchain gift on Endaoment. Are you a nonprofit looking to harness the power of the Universal Impact Pool this giving season? They've prepared a special guide to learn how the UIP can maximize your fundraising potential.--Three Key Takeaways--Web3 is an excellent tool for global coordination by reimagining incentive mechanisms to align a global community that is passionate about a cause with a local community creating real world impact.When building projects that address complex development challenges in the Global South, it’s important to develop strong relationships with the people working on the ground and partnering with local organizations to amplify their work.For nonprofits interested in engaging with Web3, but are feeling nervous or don’t know where to start, it’s important to not rush in and take some time to educate yourself. There are so many free resources and Web3 communities dedicated to education. A low-risk first step to begin engaging is to partner with a well-known crypto philanthropy platform to start accepting crypto donations.--Full shownotes and links available at--https://www.cryptoaltruism.org/blog/the-web3-nonprofit-episode-6-the-solar-foundation--Donate to The Solar Foundation's Gitcoin Project--https://explorer.gitcoin.co/#/round/10/0x5eb890e41c8d2cff75ea942085e406bb90016561/0x5eb890e41c8d2cff75ea942085e406bb90016561-110--Donate to Crypto Altruism's Gitcoin Project--https://explorer.gitcoin.co/#/round/424/0x98720dd1925d34a2453ebc1f91c9d48e7e89ec29/0x98720dd1925d34a2453ebc1f91c9d48e7e89ec29-128--DISCLAIMER --While we may discuss specific web3 projects or cryptocurrencies on this podcast, please do not take any of this as investment advice, and please make sure to do your own research on potential investment opportunities, or any opportunity, before making an investment. We host a variety of guests on this podcast with the sole purpose of highlighting the social impact use cases of this technology. That being said, Crypto Altruism does not endorse any of these projects, and we recognize that, since this is an emerging sector, some may be operating in regulatory grey areas, and as such, we cannot confirm their legality in the jurisdictions in which they operate, especially as it pertains to decentralized finance protocols. So, before getting involved with any project, it’s important that you do your own research and confirm the legality of the project. More on the disclaimer at cryptoaltruism.org.