On 12th May 2025, UK Centre for Blockchain Technologies (UK CBT) Deputy Director Dr. Francesco Pierangeli and Researcher Java Xu attended the exclusive “Driving Social Impact with Crypto” event hosted by UNICEF and the GSR Foundation at Annabel’s, London. The event convened leaders from philanthropy, digital assets, and venture capital to explore how frontier technologies like blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance social impact globally.

The gathering featured a keynote speech from Nic Cary, Co-Founder and Vice Chairman of Blockchain.com, followed by a fireside chat moderated by Sean Kiernan, CEO of Greengage. UNICEF Venture Fund and GSR Foundation representatives also participated, sharing insights on catalytic capital models and innovative funding mechanisms leveraging crypto assets.

Discussions centred on how blockchain technology can enable transparent, efficient, and accountable philanthropic funding. Participants examined how digital assets could transform funding for programmes targeting children and underserved communities, improving traceability and impact measurement.

UK CBT’s engagement provided a valuable platform to deepen relationships with mission-aligned organisations advancing tech-enabled philanthropy and digital public goods. The event underscored the growing role of crypto in catalysing funding solutions that scale positive outcomes while maintaining transparency and trust.

Hosted at the prestigious Annabel’s club, the event also facilitated networking opportunities among key stakeholders committed to harnessing the potential of decentralised technologies for social good.

The collaboration between UNICEF, the first UN organisation to accept and disburse cryptocurrency for programme purposes, and the GSR Foundation, an independent charity founded by the world’s largest crypto market maker, highlights a shift toward innovative, tech-driven approaches to global development challenges.

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