“Blockchain & Government’s” Best Moments

With echoes of the election, excitement of a rising market, and promise of a new era for this industry, attendees filled every table at the St. Thomas School of Law Atrium, downtown Minneapolis.   Following our “Web3 & Law” conference at St. Thomas last year, we returned Monday evening, November 18—this time focused on blockchain technology’s growing role in government. While St. Thomas School of Law served as host, other sponsors included government affairs specialists Terrapin Strategy and cryptocurrency advocacy nonprofit, Stand With Crypto, whose generous support as co-presenter allowed us to offer free admission this year!  With plenty to talk about, attendees mingled before and after the main show. Kicking off the program: A welcome from the law school dean Daniel B. Kelly; opening remarks from MNblockchain president Brandon Ferdig on the blending of old & new systems; and a video message from outspoken industry advocate in U.S. Congress, Rep. Tom Emmer (recently re-elected to MN-6). Watch Dean Kelly’s welcome.   Watch Brandon’s opener. Rep. Emmer remarks about the new outlook for the blockchain-cryptocurrency industry in America.  Watch HERE

NOTE: Want to learn more about our speakers, sponsors, and joining MNblockchain? Click here.  Tying things all together, technologist and MNblockchain board member Rafael Mojden served as the night’s emcee. He introduced the first of four featured presentations: A fireside chat on the biggest topic in the industry today—institutional bitcoin adoption—with a Minnesotan who leading the way in bitcoin adoption and education. Brandon Ferdig sat down with Swan Bitcoin’s Chief Revenue Officer, Brandon Quittem. Watch Brandon & Brandon’s fireside chat. Then, fresh off of the election (and ever-growing accusations of voting interference/fraud), application architect Robert Phillips presented “Voting on Chain.” Watch Robert’s presentation. From the national to the state-level, South Dakota Blockchain Institute’s Barry Sackett discussed “Regulations at the State Level” for the evening’s second fireside chat, led by Rafael.   Watch Rafael and Barry’s conversation. Lastly, we went back beyond the state, the U.S., and even the idea of the nation. What new form of government might manifest from this new technological revolution? Matthew Bowen offered some insights into “Decentralized Governance.” Watch Matt’s talk. Look for our next events—as they conclude this year (December 18 Holiday Party!) and commence for the 2025 calendar year.  Big thanks again to our sponsors, speakers, event organizers, and all the attendees of our fall event. This confluence of topics and timing cap off an incredible 2024 and set our sights on the industry in 2025 and beyond! MNblockchain Team MNblockchain.org