What is Proof of Attendance Protocol (POAP)?
POAP, short for Proof of Attendance Protocol, is a blockchain-based system that lets users collect digital badges to prove they attended an event—whether online or in person.
These badges are issued as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and serve as permanent, verifiable mementos of participation, without exposing personal data.
How Does POAP Work?
POAPs are created by event organizers who mint custom tokens containing key event details like name, date, and location. These digital badges are issued as NFTs using the ERC-721 token standard.
To claim a POAP, participants scan a QR code or follow a link shared during the event. Once claimed, the tokens are stored in a digital wallet such as MetaMask. POAPs are typically minted on the Ethereum sidechain xDai, chosen for its speed and low gas fees—making the process accessible and cost-effective for both organizers and attendees.
Benefits and Challenges of Proof of Attendance Protocol
Before integrating POAP into an event or platform, it’s important to understand both its advantages and its current limitations.
Benefits of POAP
Proof of Presence: Offers a verifiable record of attendance that can be displayed or archived.
Community Engagement: Helps brands and organizers build loyalty by rewarding active participation.
Gamification and Perks: Enables organizers to offer rewards, perks, or exclusive content based on POAP collection.
Privacy-Friendly: Uses decentralized infrastructure to preserve user privacy while validating participation.
Challenges of POAP
User Accessibility: Some users may find wallet setup or NFT claiming processes challenging.
Scalability: As usage grows, ensuring performance and cross-platform compatibility remains a key concern.
