At this year's Web Summit in Vancouver, Ethan Clark, co-founder and CEO of Nationsfirst Technologies, sat down with CGTN host Dan Williams to share how his startup is leveraging blockchain technology to empower Indigenous economies.
Clark explained that blockchain, a digital system to record transactions securely and transparently, helps communities bypass middlemen, reduce fees and build trust in everyday exchanges. He noted that many Indigenous businesses were underserved by traditional financial systems and that blockchain creates new pathways for ownership, trade and sustainable growth.
Since launching, Nationsfirst has collaborated with community leaders to design platforms for peer-to-peer lending, land registry and local marketplaces. Early pilots in remote regions have shown promising results, with participants reporting faster settlements and greater financial autonomy.
He highlighted that the beauty of blockchain lies in its decentralization. Without relying on a single authority, records are shared across multiple nodes, making data tampering nearly impossible. For Indigenous communities, historically marginalized in mainstream finance, this could translate into more equitable access to capital and resources.
Web Summit attendees were drawn to Clark's vision of blending traditional knowledge with cutting-edge tech. His booth saw a constant stream of entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts and changemakers eager to learn how they could adapt similar models in their regions.
Clark emphasized that Nationsfirst's mission extends beyond technology, it's about honoring community values and building tools that align with local priorities. He expressed excitement about future developments and partnerships.
As blockchain continues gaining traction across industries, Nationsfirst's work highlights how innovation can bridge modern finance and cultural preservation. For young global citizens, entrepreneurs and advocates seeking social impact, Clark's journey underscores technology's potential to drive positive change.
What do you think? Could blockchain pave the way for more inclusive economies? Share your thoughts below.
Reference(s):
Nationsfirst Technologies CEO on creating his blockchain tech company
cgtn.com
