NOTE: This document needs to be updated to reflect the addition of new allocation strategies.
Hello there! We're excited to introduce you to Flow State, a groundbreaking approach to funding public goods and community projects. If you're curious about how communities can come together to support the initiatives they care about, you're in the right place. Let's explore what Flow State is all about!
- Flow State: The Protocol
- Key Features of the Flow State Protocol
- How Does Flow State Work?
- Who Benefits from Flow State?
- A Brief Note on the Flow State Cooperative
- Why Choose Flow State?
- Get Started with Flow State Today!
- As a Funder
- As a Builder
- As a Holon
- Have Questions or Need Help?
Flow State: The Protocol
At its core, Flow State is an open-source protocol designed to empower individuals and communities to build, fund, and protect the projects that matter most to them. It's all about creating a seamless and effective way to support public goods through continuous, collaborative funding mechanisms.
Key Features of the Flow State Protocol
Let's take a look at what makes Flow State unique:
Feature | Description |
Streaming Funding | Instead of one-time donations, Flow State enables continuous streaming of funds to projects. This provides ongoing support and stability, allowing projects to plan and grow over time. |
Quadratic Funding | The protocol incorporates Quadratic Funding, a matching system that emphasizes the number of contributors over the size of individual contributions. Projects with broader community support receive more matching funds, making every small contribution count! |
Transparency and Decentralization | Built on blockchain technology, Flow State ensures that all transactions are transparent and verifiable. There's no central authority controlling the funds—everything is managed through smart contracts on the Ethereum network. |
Permissionless Participation | Anyone can participate in the Flow State ecosystem. Whether you're a donor, a project creator, or simply a community member, you have the freedom to get involved without needing special permissions. |
Flexibility in Allocation Mechanisms | While Streaming Quadratic Funding is a highlight, the protocol also supports other allocation methods like Streaming Quadratic Voting and more. This flexibility allows communities to choose the mechanism that best fits their needs. |
How Does Flow State Work?
Imagine this scenario:
- Discover a Project: You find a project that aligns with your values—maybe it's an open-source software tool, a community garden, or an educational program.
- Start Streaming Contributions: Instead of donating a lump sum, you set up a continuous flow of small amounts to support the project.
- Project Receives Your Stream: The project receives your contributions along with streams from other supporters.
- Matching Funds Amplify Impact: Flow State's matching pool uses the quadratic funding formula to allocate additional funds to the project, amplifying the impact based on the number of supporters.
- Project Thrives: Thanks to steady support and community engagement, the project grows and makes a positive impact!
Who Benefits from Flow State?
Here's how different participants gain from Flow State:
Beneficiary | Benefits |
Funders | - Amplified Impact: Contributions are matched, increasing overall support for projects you care about.
- Flexibility: Adjust or stop your streams at any time.
- Community Participation: Be part of a collective effort to support meaningful initiatives. |
Builders | - Steady Funding: Receive continuous financial support for better planning and execution.
- Community Engagement: Build a supportive community around your project.
- Increased Visibility: Participation in Flow State rounds can raise awareness of your work. |
Holons | - Collective Decision-Making: Influence which projects receive more funding through broad participation.
- Support for Public Goods: Help sustain projects that provide shared benefits to your community and beyond.
- Strengthened Connections: Foster collaboration and shared purpose. |
A Brief Note on the Flow State Cooperative
In addition to the protocol, we’re also setting up the Flow State Cooperative—a community-driven organization that supports the development and growth of the Flow State ecosystem. While participation in the cooperative is optional, it offers financial benefits and opportunities for deeper involvement.
Interested in learning more about the cooperative? Check out our separate user guide on the Flow State Cooperative and submit a membership interest form!
Why Choose Flow State?
Advantage | Explanation |
Empowerment | Take control of how your contributions are used and see the direct impact on projects you support. |
Fairness | The quadratic funding mechanism ensures that projects with widespread support are prioritized, making every contribution count. |
Innovation | Be part of a cutting-edge approach to funding that leverages the power of Ethereum and blockchain technology. |
Accessibility | Easy to use, with no barriers to entry for supporting or launching projects. Whether you're tech-savvy or new to blockchain, you can participate without hassle. |
Get Started with Flow State Today!
Ready to dive in? Here's how you can get involved:
As a Funder
Step | Action |
Join Our Upcoming Pilot Rounds | Participate in our pilot Streaming Quadratic Funding rounds starting in October and November 2024. This is your chance to support projects in a new and impactful way. |
Explore Projects | During the pilot rounds, discover a variety of projects seeking support. Find the ones that resonate with you. |
Start Streaming | Set up a contribution stream to the projects you love. Your ongoing support, combined with matching funds, will make a significant difference. |
As a Builder
Step | Action |
Participate in a Round | To receive funding, join one of our upcoming rounds by contacting the community hosting it. They'll guide you through the process and help you get started. |
Engage Supporters | Share your vision and connect with donors during the funding rounds. The more supporters you have, the more matching funds you'll receive. |
Benefit from Matching Funds | Leverage the quadratic funding mechanism to amplify your project's funding and impact. |
As a Holon
Step | Action |
Set Up an SQF Round | Work with us to establish a Streaming Quadratic Funding round for your community. We'll provide the tools and support to get you started. |
Empower Your Members | Give your community the opportunity to support projects they care about through continuous, collaborative funding. |
Strengthen Community Bonds | Hosting an SQF round brings people together, fostering collaboration and shared purpose. |
Have Questions or Need Help?
We're here for you! Whether you're curious about how something works or need assistance getting started, don't hesitate to reach out. Our community is friendly and eager to help.