What Is a POAP (Proof of Attendance Protocol)? - A Beginners Guide

What is POAP?

A POAP (Proof of Attendance Protocol) is a non-fungible token (NFT) that serves as proof of a person's attendance at a particular event. These badges are backed by a cryptographic record and are typically sent to a person's wallet as a reward for participating in certain activities. The first POAP was created in 2019 at the ETHDenver Convention and was later migrated to the Ethereum xDai sidechain for faster speeds and lower transaction costs.

How does the POAP work?

Proof of Attendance Protocol (POAP) NFTs are minted on the Ethereum xDAI sidechain using smart contracts and the ERC-721 protocol. Each POAP is a unique token (badge) with a serial number. When an individual attends an event, their attendance is recorded on the blockchain with a timestamp via a smart contract. POAP NFTs must be minted under a specific POAP smart contract address and have an associated image.

POAPs can be distributed both digitally and physically. For digital distribution, participants must connect their crypto wallets to claim their badges, as determined by the event organizers. For physical distribution, QR codes are commonly used. Event organizers encourage attendees to download a POAP wallet and scan the QR code to receive their badge.

What are Proof of Attendance Protocol NFTs used for?

Proof of Attendance Protocol (POAP) NFTs serve various purposes within the digital ecosystem. Here are some common uses:

1. Event Participation Verification: POAP NFTs are primarily used to verify participation in events, such as conferences, workshops, meetups, or online gatherings. They serve as a digital certificate or badge confirming that an individual attended a specific event.

2. Community Engagement: POAP NFTs can foster community engagement by providing participants with tangible tokens that represent their involvement in various activities or initiatives within a community. This can include participation in community events, contests, challenges, or contributions to community projects.

3. Exclusive Access and Rewards: Some organizers offer exclusive access or rewards to individuals who hold specific POAP NFTs. For example, holding a POAP NFT from a past event might grant access to exclusive content, early ticket sales, or VIP privileges for future events.

4. Collectibles: POAP NFTs can be collected and traded as digital collectibles. Each POAP NFT is unique and represents a specific event or activity, making them desirable items for collectors within the crypto and blockchain community.

5. Gamification: POAP NFTs can be integrated into gamified experiences, where participants earn tokens for completing certain tasks, achieving milestones, or participating in challenges. These tokens can then be used to unlock additional features, rewards, or levels within the game.

How to set up a POAP for events?

Step 1 - Prepare Graphic File:

• Create or obtain a graphic file in either PNG or APNG format.
• Ensure the file size does not exceed 200 kilobytes (KB).
• The recommended dimensions for the image are 500 x 500 pixels.
• Shape the file in a round format.

Step 2 - Access POAP BackOffice:

•   Visit the POAP BackOffice platform through the provided link.

Step 3 - Create New POAP:

• Once on the POAP BackOffice page, locate and click on the "Create new POAP" button.

Step 4 - Fill Out Event Details:

• You will be directed to a page where you can input details about your event and POAP.
• Provide descriptions for your event, including its significance, related websites, and duration.
• Specify the number of "mint links" required, which should match the anticipated number of attendees or eligible claimants for the POAP.

Step 5 - Receive Confirmation Email:

• After completing the required information, submit the form.
• You will receive an email containing your POAP edit code and claim codes.

Step 6 - Access Edit Code:

• Use the provided edit code from the email to make any necessary changes or updates to your POAP and event details.

These steps will enable you to successfully set up POAP for your event, providing attendees with a commemorative token of their participation.

Proof of Attendance Protocol NFTs, pioneered by Bitdeal, represent a recent innovation in Web3, offering intriguing opportunities for event organizers and attendees alike. As more organizers embrace POAPs, the trend is expected to thrive.

Event planners leverage POAPs to bolster user engagement and foster community, while attendees gain the chance to memorialize significant events. Whether you seek insights into POAP use cases or explore alternative solutions to enhance customer loyalty and community building, our blockchain consultants stand ready to assist.

With nearly a decade of experience in the blockchain sector, Bitdeal has empowered clients to overcome challenges and develop solutions that fortify user trust and participation.

Let's craft a blockchain-powered journey that leaves a lasting impression. Reach out now to start your adventure!