Proof of handshake

Inspiration

We watched brilliant connections die at hackathons because people couldn't remember who they met or what they discussed. Traditional business cards get lost, LinkedIn connections feel fake, and digital solutions don't prove meetings actually happened. We needed permanent, verified records of professional interactions.

What it does

Proof of Handshake creates blockchain-verified professional connections through 5-second QR code "handshakes." When two people meet, they scan each other's codes to generate permanent, tamper-proof records on Algorand blockchain with timestamps, locations, and private notes. Users sign up with email only - we handle all wallet complexity behind the scenes.

How we built it

Built with Python and Streamlit for rapid MVP development, integrated with Algorand's Python SDK for blockchain transactions. Users authenticate via email while we automatically generate and manage Algorand wallets in the background. QR codes contain unique user identifiers that create mutual verification records costing just $0.00016 per handshake.

Challenges we ran into

Hiding blockchain complexity while maintaining security was our biggest challenge. We solved this by abstracting wallet management completely - users never see private keys or transaction hashes. Balancing real-time verification with user experience required careful UX design to make blockchain feel invisible.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Created the first blockchain networking solution that feels like a regular app. Achieved true user data ownership without crypto complexity. Built a protocol that extends beyond networking to any verified human interaction - attendance, supply chain, healthcare, legal documentation.

What we learned

Blockchain adoption isn't about the technology - it's about solving real problems with zero friction. The killer feature isn't decentralization, it's permanent verification that users actually control. Email-first onboarding removes the biggest barrier to Web3 adoption.

What's next for Proof of handshake

React Native mobile app for broader adoption, enterprise features for corporate events, API partnerships with event organizers, and expanding the protocol to other verified interaction use cases like proof of attendance, supply chain verification, and legal documentation.

Built With

• algorandpython
• python
• streamlit
• teal