Why are you participating for Based LatAm?

We strongly believe in the potential of web3 culture and blockchain technology to positively impact our community, in particular children and families of this institute, and our hometown, Cali - Colombia and cities where this institution has headquarters.

Through a series of both in-person and online initiatives, this program is designed to provide The Instituto para Niños Ciegos y Sordos (INCS) and their community a compelling reason to engage with blockchain technology; thus, becoming the gateway for these organizations to the Base ecosystem. As one of the largest adopters of blockchain and with a rapidly growing network of builders and users, the LatAm region is poised to play a crucial role in onboarding the next billion individuals to blockchain, and we aim for Base to be the first mover at the intersection of social impact and technology. Cultura INCS is not just a campaign; it’s a movement.

El Instituto Para Niños Ciegos y Sordos is dedicated to early childhood development through healthcare, rehabilitation, education, and psychosocial support. Their goal is to enhance the psychomotor, cognitive, and socioemotional skills of children, fostering their autonomy and independence in daily activities. Artistic achievements, such as music, drawing, and painting, exemplify the efforts of these interdisciplinary team care processes.

What challenges are you focusing on?

Since its foundation in 1940, INCS has sought to improve the quality of life of visually and hearing impaired children in southwestern Colombia (> 7200 children and families benefited). The rehabilitation program currently serves an annual average of 150 children and families (in 2024, 44% of the families are low income, < 307 USD/month), from early stimulation (< 3 years) to educational or social inclusion (< 12 years).
However, Lack of resources, language barriers, and a lack of a support system are a few of the challenges Latin American institutions face in today’s rapidly evolving crypto environment. These hurdles hinder the growth and adoption of blockchain technology, limiting access to crucial tools and knowledge. In particular, many institutions struggle with insufficient funding and infrastructure, which prevents them from fully engaging with the potential of blockchain applications. Additionally, language barriers can isolate communities from global developments and innovations, as many resources are primarily available in English, leaving non-English speakers at a disadvantage. The absence of a robust support system further exacerbates these issues, as institutions often lack mentorship, guidance, and networking opportunities essential for navigating the complexities of the crypto landscape.

How does your submission address this challenge?

That’s why we’re excited to present the Cultura INCS project, an initiative inspired by Base's mission to build a global onchain economy that increases innovation, creativity, and freedom. This project aims to address these challenges head-on by providing resources tailored to the unique needs of the institute. Through mentorship, workshops and guidance, we seek to empower Cultura INCS by enhancing their understanding of blockchain technology and its applications.
Thus, they can leverage blockchain technology to create transparent, engaging, and innovative ways to raise awareness and funds for their organization. Furthermore, we are committed to breaking down language barriers by offering multilingual resources and training, ensuring that everyone can participate in the crypto revolution. By utilizing the blockchain, Cultura INCS will pave the way to enable Latin American institutions to harness the power of blockchain, driving economic growth and social change within their communities.

Challenges we ran into

Adopting blockchain technology faces several interconnected challenges. Preconceived notions often lead to misunderstandings about its benefits, complexity, security, and practical applications beyond cryptocurrencies. These perceptions, coupled with limited access to education and expertise, particularly in developing regions, create significant barriers to entry. The prevalence of technical barries and English-centric resources further exacerbates the problem, making it difficult for non-technical and non-English speaking individuals to engage with the technology. To overcome these obstacles, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. This includes developing clear, educational materials and spaces in our languages, showcasing real-world use cases, and creating user-friendly, affordable solutions. Building strong relationships between blockchain experts and traditional industries is crucial, as is fostering a patient, perseverant mindset during the adoption process. Additionally, creating inclusive spaces where organizations feel empowered to contribute ideas and solve problems collaboratively can significantly accelerate adoption. These aspects were key to move the project forward, paving the way for wider integration and innovation.

Additional Features

Before the buildathon we have focused heavily on the onboarding process. With weekly meetings where we have discussed fundamentals of blockchain and web3. Platforms, strategies, legal aspects regarding IP and cryptofunds, communities, digital collectibles, decentralized social media and more.
During this time we focused on developing a roadmap within the Base Ecosystem, aligned to the mission of bringing more users onchain and making Ethereum Accessible to everyone.