**Previous work ***

Please provide links to published code, research, or other documentation of what you've worked on.

**What is the project? ***

Describe the main concept and components of the proposed work.

BanklessDAO is a media DAO focused on Defi and self-sovereignty of digital assets with over 20,000 members on Discord and over 50,000 followers on Twitter. Despite being formed by and continuing to use the Bankless brand, BanklessDAO operates as a wholly distinct entity from the popular podcast BanklessHQ (Bankless LLC).

BanklessDeSci focuses on exploring the concept of self-sovereignty for digital assets and its applications at the intersection of DeSci, DataFi, and dataDAOs. Most DeSci projects tend to actively avoid anything to do with Defi due to the stereotypical reputation of crypto as a scam. Leaning into these concerns to explore how DeFi can be ethically integrated into DeSci and DataFi in ways that align the values of both movements has huge potential for unlocking access to knowledge as a universal public good. All while retaining or increasing the net profitability of coordinated scientific activity.

**What problem(s) are being solved by within the scope of the grant? ***

What is the specifc problems, research questions, or needs you are trying to address?

**Why is your project important? ***

How do you know people need what you're making? Why is this project important for your target demographic/problem area?