In a step forward for financial inclusion and climate resilience, Mercy Corps Ventures has unveiled the fourth round of its Crypto For Good Fund (C4G). Building on the success of previous iterations, the latest fund aims to harness blockchain and Web3 technologies to transform lives in underserved communities across the Global South.
Since the inception of the fund in 2022, the Crypto For Good initiative has screened over 1,000 applications, funded 15+ groundbreaking pilots, and impacted over 40,000 people.
With equity-free grants and tailored support, the program has cemented itself as a beacon for innovation and impact in emerging markets.
A Mission Rooted in Impact
The driving mission of C4G IV is straightforward yet ambitious: to scale blockchain-enabled solutions that address pressing challenges such as financial exclusion and climate vulnerability.
Despite the strides made in financial technology, 1.4 billion adults globally remain unbanked, with women disproportionately affected.
Moreover, the looming threat of climate change jeopardizes the livelihoods of 3.3 billion individuals worldwide.
As emerging markets bear 75–80% of the associated costs, Mercy Corps Ventures is laser-focused on empowering communities to adapt and thrive through innovative Web3 solutions.
Pushing the Frontiers of Crypto Innovation
The Crypto For Good Fund IV sets its sights on the next wave of transformative projects. The fund invites builders and startups developing Web3 applications in key regions, including Africa, South and Southeast Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
Priority themes for this round include:
- Broader Access: Creating pathways for more individuals to achieve financial autonomy.
- Programmable Money: Driving efficiency through smart contract applications.
- Locally Tailored Solutions: Adapting blockchain tools to resonate with specific community needs.
- Humanitarian Aid Delivery: Enhancing aid distribution to support the 299 million individuals in critical need.
- ReFi & Climate Innovation: Bridging the gap between environmental restoration and financial growth.
Grants, Mentorship, and More
Selected startups will receive equity-free grants of up to $100,000, alongside mentorship, impact measurement advisory, partnership opportunities, and brand exposure.
Through this comprehensive support, Mercy Corps Ventures aims to foster solutions that demonstrate both feasibility and scalability.
A Legacy of Innovation
Since the program’s inception, the Crypto For Good Fund has spotlighted standout initiatives:
- Empowa: Leveraging NFTs for affordable housing in Mozambique.
- Atlantis DAO: Building decentralized networks for clean water access in India.
- DIVA Donate: Facilitating anticipatory cash transfers for climate shocks.
- WEIA: Using blockchain for traceable smallholder transactions in Colombia.
- Haraka: Delivering reputation-based microloans to women savings groups in Ghana.
Join the Movement
For developers, entrepreneurs, and organizations passionate about transforming underserved communities through Web3, this is your chance to make a lasting impact.
Applications for C4G IV are open until December 20, 2024, and will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Early submissions are encouraged to maximize visibility.
