HALIFAX, NS – Hypergive, a solution to fight hunger using blockchain technology, is the winner of the 2017 Year of Giving Award at the World Government Summit in Dubai. The award was presented to the team by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai at the awards ceremony in Dubai on February 14.
The technology was created by BlockCrushr Labs, with a team of three Halifax-based innovators – Scott Burke (Outpost Lab Lead, Atlantic Lottery and Founder of BlockCrushr), Brian Jeffcock (Sidestory) and Andrew Redden (Kinduct Technologies), the first two based at Volta Labs.
Hypergive leverages blockchain to allow people to securely donate online to digital wallets to fund food purchases for those in need. Donations are held digitally and redeemed for food at a partner location using a unique card issued to the individual. The technology allows for daily spending limits, deactivation, and value recovery if it’s lost or stolen. Partner locations have payment transferred to them digitally after the transaction is complete. This ensures that donations are used directly to fight hunger. Above all, it gives dignity and choice to those in need.
“Hypergive is a unique solution to a complicated problem, and it’s the type of innovation that’s happening in Halifax. It is excellent to see this type of international recognition,” said Jesse Rodgers, CEO of Volta Labs. “It is our goal for the world to recognize the special community of technology creators that we have in Halifax. We’re very happy for the Hypergive team for this win, as it’s a big win for our whole region.”
“We’re incredibly honoured and humbled by the recognition of Hypergive at the 2017 World Government Summit,” said Scott Burke, CEO and founder of BlockCrushr Labs and Hypergive. “As technology continues to rapidly transform society, it’s now our task to create and embrace future solutions without fear in order to tackle global challenges. It’s immensely meaningful to be a part of moving a vision forward which can help enrich the lives of those around us, and in turn, enrich our own.”
BlockCrushr is now looking to pilot Hypergive in cities around the world. Those looking to start a pilot in their area should contact [email protected].
