How to use Web3 in an IRL event: The tech and team
I want to acknowledge the very supportive team at Vennity. They are the technology behind the Founders Live landmarks and helped create the tokens for the event. While their platform is straightforward to use, there were other reasons I chose to work with them on this project.
Help wanted and found
I would first like to introduce Sara. I met Sara in early 2022 while taking part in a weekly call to teach us, newcomers, all about Web3. She demonstrated her expertise in Web3 and NFTs, making a lasting impression on me.
Fast forward to September, and we met in person at NFT Seattle. Sara's energy and enthusiasm at the event not only strengthened our friendship and business connection, but she also managed to draw the attention of Vennity while attending the conference.
In this Web3 world, it's easy to have brainstorming sessions and creative bursts of energy about how to use blockchain technology. Geeky, I know. Sara and I did just that, and the next thing we knew, we were planning and designing how Vennity could help me with my Founders Live project.
The Vennity Studio
Vennity's studio was simple to use, especially with guidance from their team. My initial goal was to create a basic NFT to distribute at the Founders Live event.
Initially, I was only going to issue it as proof of attendance. But decided to take it a step further and created a token-gated experience to incentivize the holders further.
Business owners would create their own tokens with discounts, a giveaway, or an experience. The only way someone could claim it would be to have the landmark token unlock it.
Future fun
Each NFT building platform and marketplace has its unique spin. For Vennity, they use geofencing and have designed an easy way to create a real-life scavenger hunt. Participants hunt for the NFTs around town at local businesses. The only way they can claim the NFT is to be within that geofenced area (claiming it at home won't work). To make it more fun, you can require the person to take a selfie when they claim it.
I hope to add this later as another benefit for my landmark holders. Who will want to participate?
Working directly with the team
I met with Vlad and Jose from Vennity a couple of times to ask questions and get advice on how to structure and build my digital assets. To work directly with leadership at a technology company is terrific. I love sharing ideas and giving the company feedback so that they can improve and create the best experience for their customers.
The Vennity team walked me through the minting process step-by-step. They shared thoughtful and creative ideas to ensure the user experience would be easy and fun.
Summary
In the future, as these new Web3 companies mature and grow, you won't have the same opportunity to have the white glove service and attention like a Sara, Vlad, or Jose. That is why building and creating now is so exciting and rewarding.
I advise anyone interested in starting their own digital asset project to start NOW. You have the support, guidance, and attention to help you every step of the way. While there is no guarantee your project will be without mistakes or frustrations, the great people you meet along the way make it all worthwhile.
