The Web3 Nonprofit Episode 6 - The Solar Foundation
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? We've prepared a special guide to learn how the UIP can maximize your fundraising potential.
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Key Takeaways
Web3 is an excellent tool for global coordination by reinventing 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.
Follow Coleen, Jon, and The Solar Foundation
The Solar Foundation - Twitter
Donate to The Solar Foundation
The Solar Foundation GG19 Project
Quadratic Funding - wtfisqf.com
Episode Time Stamps
03:55 - To start things off, I’d love to hear your story. How did you end up where you are today, working at the intersection of web3 and the nonprofit sector?
12:10 - Can you please introduce listeners to the mission of The Solar Foundation?
14:55 - I understand that you currently have a few different projects on the go - do you mind sharing some of the projects you’re working on?
20:15 - On your website, it mentions how “We seek to reinvent the non-profit and NGO model using the tools and capabilities of web3.” What are some of the most compelling Web3 use cases for nonprofits?
29:10 - How can blockchain help foster global coordination and collaboration in helping you achieve your mission?
33:10 - You have been heavily involved in Web3 fundraising efforts, including participating in Quadratic Funding rounds through Gitcoin and Giveth. Can you please give an intro of Quadratic Funding? What has been your experience participating in these funding programs?
40:50 - What message would you have for nonprofit leaders who are hesitant to engage with Web3 technology?
45:00 - What’s the best way for listeners to learn more and support The Solar Foundation?
46:05 - To end on a note of inspiration – is there a recent success story or win at The Solar Foundation that you can share with the audience?
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. 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 available HERE.
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