Experience the latest updates from the Constellation Network! Dive deep into the inner workings of the network, gain insights into the perspectives of the C-level executives, and discover the strategic direction shaping the company’s future — all meticulously detailed in this comprehensive article.
Constellation Network and Forward Edge-AI Join Forces
Constellation Network’s recent partnership with Forward Edge-AI marks a significant step towards addressing critical data integrity issues within the AI industry using blockchain technology. Forward Edge-AI, founded in 2019, specializes in integrating AI with robust data integrity solutions across public safety and national security sectors. Led by Eric Adolphe, a respected figure in the AI community known for his commitment to ethical AI development, Forward Edge-AI has gained recognition for its advanced AI/ML technologies and strategic partnerships with federal agencies like the US Navy.
Together, Constellation Network and Forward Edge-AI aim to bolster the security and reliability of AI models, particularly in mission-critical environments. Additionally, their collaboration at the National DigiFoundry underscores their shared commitment to advancing blockchain-driven solutions that enhance AI integrity and performance across diverse applications.
Genfinity Interviews Benjamin Diggles and Ben Jorgensen at Consensus 2024
Ryan Solomon, CEO of Genfinity, sat down with Benjamin Diggles, Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Constellation, at Consensus to discuss the evolution of technology within the Constellation ecosystem, particularly focusing on their work with federal government entities, including the Department of Defense (DOD).
Reflecting on his journey, Benjamin reminisced about attending his first crypto conference six years ago, highlighting the remarkable evolution of the industry since then. “A lot has changed, but a lot hasn’t,” he mused, underscoring the enduring dynamics shaping the space.
Moreover, he noted the absence of a federal presence in the realm of Web3, acknowledging the prevalent perception of the industry as an arena of conflict between innovators and regulators. Benjamin shared insights into his team’s strategic focus on engaging with federal agencies to address complex challenges. “We created a program called Iron SPIDR, which is bigger than Constellation network,” he revealed, emphasizing their commitment to pioneering scalable data solutions tailored for federal applications.
Benjamin’s passion for bridging the gap between blockchain technology and government needs was palpable. “There’s not one blockchain or Web3 solution to rule them all,” he asserted, emphasizing the importance of leveraging specialized solutions for specific use cases, particularly within the Department of Defense. Proudly, he lauded his team’s efforts, highlighting their position as one of the most awarded blockchain companies in federal history.
Constellation Labs’ Vision: Transforming Government Collaboration through Decentralized Networks
Reflecting on historical precedents, Benjamin noted IBM’s early foray into the federal realm, particularly through their partnership with the Linux Foundation and the creation of TradeLens within supply chain management. However, despite the initial promise, Benjamin recounted conversations with a tier-one systems integrator who expressed dissatisfaction with the outcomes of such endeavors. “It just wasn’t enough,” this individual remarked, underscoring the challenge of overcoming skepticism within government circles.
However, Benjamin was undeterred, emphasizing the importance of education and tangible proof points to validate their approach. He highlighted a significant milestone in October 2022 when the Air Force Research Laboratory validated their solutions as scalable, secure, and DOD-approved. The Co-founder emphasized Constellation’s ability to back up their claims with tangible results, hinting at another recent approval that reinforced their standing in the industry.
Transitioning to their approach in engaging with government entities, Benjamin stressed the importance of using tailored language to resonate with their audience. He clarified that they avoid terms such as ‘wallet,’ highlighting their association with cryptocurrency. Instead, their emphasis is on themes like secure information sharing and trustworthy AI, aligning closely with government priorities in data management and security.
Furthermore, he expressed his satisfaction in witnessing a shift in mindset among government officials, acknowledging the value of a decentralized network that empowers agencies to retain ownership and control over their data. He expressed pride in their approach: “They own it; we simply provide support from the sidelines.” Peering into the future, Benjamin outlined his ambition to elevate their program, Iron SPIDR, into a benchmark for Web3 solutions across government agencies — it is his main vision. These technological advances show the transformative potential of Constellation’s initiatives in government communication and collaboration.
Exploring Digital Synergy: Government and Industry Partnerships within the NDF
We inquired about the National Digital Foundry (NDF) initiative and the work of Kevin Jackson through Forward Edge AI. Specifically, we were interested in how government entities involved in the NDF, such as the US Department of Treasury, NASA, Space Force, and IBM, are leveraging this initiative. Furthermore, we asked if Benjamin could elaborate on their utilization of technologies like decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), particularly in the context of terms like “wallet” and tools like Stargazer Wallet.
Pointing out the uniqueness of the National Digital Foundry (NDF), Benjamin emphasized its significance in the Web3 landscape. He likened the exploration within the NDF to gold panning, symbolizing the search for valuable solutions in an industry still rooted in antiquity. Drawing from his experience with various consortia and DAO initiatives, Benjamin underscored the NDF’s distinction as a substantial find amidst the abundance of less fruitful endeavors.
The focus on digital assets and the collaborative efforts between federal agencies and industry players within the NDF resonated deeply with Benjamin. He marveled at the rapid progress and tangible outcomes emerging from this synergy. The Co-Founder noted that participation in the NDF mandates the use of tools like the Stargazer Wallet, facilitating practical interactions with Web3 solutions such as the custom NDT token created by the DigiFoundry.
Moreover, he expressed his enthusiasm for witnessing hands-on engagement with cutting-edge technology by entities like NASA and the Space Force within the NDF. For him, this level of practical involvement represents a realization of long-held dreams in the industry.
“We Pour Concrete”: From Blockchain Experimentation to Tangible Solutions
Diggles, renowned for his forward-looking insights within the community, reiterated his earlier prediction for 2024: “We pour concrete.” This metaphor captures a pivotal moment where experimentation transitions into tangible action. Reflecting on the journey of exploration and experimentation, he emphasized the collaborative nature of driving adoption. “We can’t just force adoption,” he noted, highlighting the importance of factors like regulatory decisions and growing trust within the community.
With recent developments, such as the successful launch of Metagraphs on the Constellation Network, the team has observed a significant shift in momentum. Moreover, he described the influx of interest and innovative projects leveraging their network. This surge of activity, fueled by newfound trust, is propelling them into uncharted territories of development and application.
Looking ahead, he outlined his vision for the future, emphasizing the role of blockchain in revolutionizing various aspects of society. From microservices to fractionalized money using digital assets, he envisions a world where blockchain-enabled solutions leapfrog traditional barriers. Touching on a topical issue, he proposed blockchain-based voting as a feasible solution despite acknowledging its controversial nature.
Simplifying Secure Information Sharing: Ensuring Trust in Government Data Transactions
He elaborated on one of their primary endeavors: secure information sharing with the government. Simplification was their breakthrough, and existing portals, websites, and apps would remain in use. When signing or transmitting sensitive information, a simple process ensues: sign for it, and it’s collected with a key signature. Identity access management credentials are then appended to their blockchain. This data is sent securely to the receiving party. Upon receipt, a swift quality assurance check ensures integrity, guarding against tampering or corruption. It’s elegant — a mere checkmark. Their aim isn’t upheaval but assurance, akin to the “Intel Inside” sticker, signifying trust. Without their Constellation checkmark, confidence is elusive. Yet, with it, assurance reigns. They may provide tools openly, offering real-time visibility into the data — a valuable asset in today’s landscape.
Benjamin also expressed his utmost excitement about the stakeholder economy, a concept deeply ingrained in DePIN, a cause close to his heart. He sees Web3 as the Internet of Value, advocating for wealth distribution and empowerment. Notably, he envisions a world where individuals, like a struggling single mother, can leverage their digital footprint to improve their livelihood through cryptocurrency rather than being at the mercy of large tech corporations. He takes pride in contributing to this movement and aims to make America safer through their work with the Department of Defense.
Furthermore, he emphasized the significance of trust, especially in the age of AI, where misinformation can have dire consequences. Benjamin highlights the alarming reality of AI’s potential dangers, citing an instance where Google’s AI suggests consuming rocks. He underscores the importance of trust in a digital landscape riddled with bots and malware. In an environment where the integration of finance, sensitive data, and AI algorithms heightens the stakes, trust is imperative, especially considering the existing lack of trust in the internet. The Co-Founder believes that the next 18 months will witness a convergence of various factors, marking an exciting period in technological evolution.
Ben Jorgensen on the Evolution of Blockchain: Industry Insights and Future Prospects
Ryan also had the privilege of interviewing Ben Jorgensen, the CEO of Constellation Labs. Given Ben’s extensive experience in the blockchain industry and his recent participation in events like DC Blockchain Week, we sought his insights on the current state of the industry, notable recent shifts and developments, and how these developments may compare to previous years.
Ben remarked that the current state of the blockchain industry is an exciting and dynamic place to be. Reflecting on his experiences, he noted the sentiment of hearing, “Wow, you guys have been around for a while,” which brings a mix of pride and realization. Despite only being involved for six years, the current cycle feels markedly different. The industry has weathered numerous struggles and fluctuations, fostering strong relationships that have created a sense of surefooted progress. Those still engaged in the industry are actively supporting one another, generating significant momentum.
He recalled attending conferences six years ago with a sense of trepidation, questioning how people were managing within the industry. While some of that uncertainty remains, there is now a genuine authenticity in the relationships that have formed over the years. This authenticity, he believes, will propel the industry forward in various ways.
Furthermore, Ben highlighted the substantial developments in the United States regarding legislation and policy. The coming together of different parties, a phenomenon absent just a year ago, represents a huge opportunity for the industry. He envisions consistent and robust growth over the next several years, driven by these legislative advancements and the solidified relationships within the blockchain community.
Ben Jorgensen’s Keynote at DC Blockchain Summit
Ben recently gave a keynote speech at the DC Blockchain Summit, where he addressed an audience that included SEC commissioners, Congress members, and Senators. Notably, the focus of the discussion was less on the technology itself and more on the nature of digital assets and their regulation. He found it intriguing that the conversation centered on providing people with financial sovereignty and creating clear regulatory frameworks.
Furthermore, Ben observed a rare bipartisan effort, with both Democrats and Republicans recognizing the need for unified policy-making. This collaboration aims to provide clear guidelines and frameworks for the industry. He mentioned that the SEC almost apologized for the slow progress on the Bitcoin ETF, highlighting a growing understanding that digital assets are here to stay and are not a partisan issue.
During his talk, the CEO emphasized the real-world impact of these regulatory discussions on entrepreneurs and companies. He discussed how innovation is perceived, who is attracted to the country, and who might be deterred. He wanted to convey that significant progress has been made in collaboration with the federal government over the past five years, extending beyond just digital assets.
The atmosphere at the conference was notably optimistic, with the industry appearing stronger and more sophisticated than ever. Ben noted that despite past challenges, the industry has not been scared off. Instead, it is advancing rapidly, with younger generations eager to join the conversation about legislation and offering support and knowledge to help shape a clear future for the blockchain space.
Application-Specific Networks and Custom Ecosystems
Application-specific networks refer to blockchains and similar technologies, with Ben highlighting the Constellation Network as an example. Within this network, people can build their own layer-one networks, complete with node operators, validator nodes, and custom frameworks. This setup allows for the integration of off-chain data onto the blockchain, akin to the concept of Oracles. Notably, AI data can be brought on-chain and validated, which is crucial for applications involving large language models (LLMs) or other AI technologies.
This approach enables the creation of customized networks, allowing users to build their value propositions from scratch. Rather than being confined to an insular ecosystem, users can define their ecosystems, significantly impacting community support and bridging to real-world networks. This flexibility opens up vast opportunities for innovation and practical applications across various industries.
When Ben and his team started, he was excited about giving developers more customization and freedom to build their own networks. Now, this idea has gained significant traction, especially among large layer-two networks, which are creating massive communities with the “blockchain in a box” concept. These networks are also increasingly moving towards building their own layer-one networks, evolving from the simple use of smart contracts to creating extensive sub-networks.
Constellation’s Milestones: Evolving Customer-Centric Ecosystems for Long-Term Growth
Moreover, Ben sees this evolution as a step towards more sophisticated ecosystems that foster long-term growth and connect tokens to true ecosystems. Reflecting on Constellation’s milestones, he noted that their six years of work involved extensive research and brand identity formation. Unlike most Web3 ecosystems, Constellation focused on building with the customer in mind, asking who would use their end products.
This customer-centric approach led them to collaborate with the federal government in 2019, fundamentally changing perceptions of blockchain utility. After four years of development and partnership with the government, Constellation reached a major milestone in November by releasing their first sub-network (Metagraph), or application-specific network, on their chain. Now, they are in an exciting phase of adding new features to unlock further functionalities, fully aware of their customers’ needs and capabilities. This momentum signifies a snowballing effect, driving innovation and expansion within their ecosystem.
Collaborative Growth: Blockchain Networks and the Decentralized Recovery Alliance
As the interview continued, Ryan asked about the recent trend of blockchain networks collaborating to grow the ecosystem collectively, highlighting Constellation Labs’ involvement in the Decentralized Recovery Alliance alongside Hedera, Algorand, Ripple, and Casper. He sought insights into the significance of these collaborations and how they differ from the competitive landscape of a few years ago.
Jorgensen shared his vision for a multi-chain approach, emphasizing Constellation’s background of being chain agnostic. Observing other chains, he noted that many ecosystems have been insular, promoting their frameworks and technologies without integrating outside systems. Communities often echoed this isolation, focusing solely on their blockchain capabilities.
Firstly, Ben pointed out that to gain more market share, there needs to be collaboration from both community and technology standpoints. The DeRec Alliance exemplifies this shift by using technology to unify different protocols and ecosystems with similar philosophies. Moreover, this alliance aims to bring together those outside the top five blockchains, encouraging them to combine their communities and technologies to create a more significant impact.
Furthermore, Ben is excited about the potential of collaborating with platforms like Hedera and Ripple. He envisions developers using solutions from multiple chains, such as Ripple for financial technology, Hedera for specific solutions, Constellation for data validation and network creation, and Ethereum or Solana for tokenization. This collaborative approach, though it might sound complex, promises to provide developers with extensive community support and overlapping capabilities akin to a Venn diagram. The outcome will be a richer, more versatile technology stack that transcends the limitations of any single blockchain.
Looking ahead: Industry 4.0 and Beyond
Industry 4.0 is the convergence of major disruptive technologies, including AI, AR/VR, blockchain technology, and digital assets. Jorgensen emphasized the role of community evangelists — communities that organize programmatically and are tied to financial mechanisms. He believes this community aspect is crucial for the adoption of new technologies, adding a unique component to Industry 4.0.
Notably, where Industry 4.0 is heading, is toward enabling all businesses to leverage these technologies. By creating digital assets, businesses can add new assets to their balance sheets and develop programmatic incentive mechanisms that drive community and customer engagement, fostering exponential growth. This integrated approach offers unprecedented opportunities for businesses to advance.
The CEO also highlighted the potential for exponential growth, facilitated by the collaboration of legislators who are increasingly uniting around these technologies, setting aside moral and ethical differences to focus on growth and adaptation. This legislative alignment will further propel the industry in a transformative direction. In essence, all these elements collectively define Industry 4.0, which is shaping up to drive significant advancements in technology and business practices.
These interviews captured Constellation Labs’ journey from experimentation to concrete action, exemplifying their pivotal role in shaping the future of blockchain technology and digital ecosystems.
A recent blog post from Oracle explored the integration of large language models (LLMs) and open-source, cloud-native technologies to revolutionize edge data analysis, inference, and transformation. As the Accenture Oracle Mastermind Hackathon team immersed themselves in the project, they realized they needed to ensure the integrity of their edge data. Subsequently, they realized a Metagraph could effectively safeguard against potential data tampering and spoofing attempts.
Bridging Technological Equity and Economic Resilience in Hawaii
Constellation Network is collaborating with Sun Global Broadband to establish an island-wide internet bubble in Waiʻanae. Subsequently, this represents a transformative leap toward technological equity and economic resilience in Hawaii. As reported by khon2, this initiative, facilitated by Constellation’s robust blockchain infrastructure, not only ensures reliable internet access but also paves the way for innovative applications like the Dor Traffic Miner. This technology, integrated with Constellation’s blockchain solutions, empowers local businesses by providing real-time insights into foot traffic patterns, enhancing operational efficiency, and enabling them to earn cryptocurrency rewards.
By leveraging Constellation’s decentralized Hypergraph network and DAG cryptocurrency, Hawaii can mitigate economic vulnerabilities associated with traditional currencies. The introduction of Aloha Coins, facilitated by Constellation’s blockchain, illustrates the potential for local communities to adopt digital currencies securely and transparently. This initiative not only fosters financial stability but also promotes economic autonomy, which is crucial for navigating global economic shifts.
Notably, this collaborative effort between Constellation and SGB not only bridges the digital divide but also positions Hawaii at the forefront of technological innovation, ensuring readiness to embrace future advancements and economic opportunities with confidence.
We hoped you enjoyed these updates! In parting, don’t forget to visit Constellation’s new website, and stay tuned to Genfinity’s website for more information as it unfolds.
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