Proof of Attendance Protocol (POAP)

The Proof of Attendance Protocol (POAP) is a unique system that uses blockchain technology to create digital badges or collectibles. These badges, commonly referred to as POAPs, are essentially digital tokens that serve as verifiable proof of attendance at events. They are minted as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) on the Ethereum blockchain, specifically adhering to the ERC-721 standard.

Origins and Evolution

POAPs were first introduced at the ETHDenver Convention in 2019 to reward participants of the hackathon. Initially, these tokens were minted and distributed on the Ethereum mainnet. However, due to high transaction fees and slower processing times, POAP migrated to the Ethereum sidechain xDai in October 2020. The xDai chain offers faster transactions and significantly lower costs, making it more practical for minting these digital badges.

How POAPs Work

Each POAP is minted through smart contracts and includes specific event-related information, such as the event name, date, and a unique serial number. These details make each POAP a unique and immutable digital collectible. Event organizers can distribute these tokens to attendees, usually free of charge, to commemorate their participation. Collecting POAPs can be compared to amassing concert tickets, but in a secure, digital format that leverages blockchain technology.

To mint POAPs, organizers use the official POAP platform, where they upload event details and images. Attendees can then claim their POAPs through the POAP app, often by scanning QR codes provided at the event. This process ensures that each POAP is a genuine proof of attendance, stored securely on the blockchain.

Community Engagement and Utility

Beyond merely serving as attendance records, POAPs offer various ways for event organizers to engage their communities. For instance, holders of POAPs can participate in community polls, raffles, and leaderboards on the POAP platform. This interactive aspect enhances community involvement and loyalty. Notable examples include SushiSwap, which distributed POAPs during AMAs and governance votes, and Decentraland, which issued POAPs for attendees of virtual events in its metaverse. Future Potential

While POAPs currently serve primarily as proof of attendance, their potential applications are vast. They could evolve to acknowledge contributions within a community, offer privileges, or even act as a blockchain-based resume. This resume could verify a person's expertise and educational background, providing a trustworthy digital credential.

Trading and Value

Although POAPs can be traded on various NFT marketplaces, their primary purpose is to serve as personal mementos of event attendance. The creators of POAP emphasize that these tokens were designed to demonstrate early support for Ethereum and to celebrate community participation. Therefore, they are not intended to have significant monetary value, as trading POAPs would contradict their original purpose of commemorating personal experiences.

In summary, POAP represents an innovative use of blockchain technology to create and distribute digital badges that verify event attendance. By fostering community engagement and providing a secure way to record personal achievements, POAPs illustrate the versatile potential of NFTs beyond mere collectibles. As the protocol continues to evolve, it may find new applications in recognizing contributions and offering digital credentials, further enhancing its value to the blockchain community.