1. What is the SHAFT Foundation?

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The SHAFT (Strategic Hub for AI-focused Technology) Foundation is a Panamanian entity that funds and promotes AI projects with crypto and real-world applications. It draws on a global network of experts in AI research, DeFi, and engineering to empower agentic AI solutions.

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2. What does it mean to be a partner with SHAFT?

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Being a partner means:

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• Collaboration on AI Innovations: Work closely with top AI researchers, engineers, and crypto experts in the SHAFT ecosystem.

• Shared Mission: Drive inclusive innovation in the tokenized economy, breaking down barriers for broader crypto adoption.

• Resource Access: Receive funding and strategic support, including go-to-market guidance, technical expertise, and community outreach.

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3. How do you choose your partners?

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Our selection process combines best practices from Andrew Ng’s AI Fund and Y Combinator, focusing on:

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• Problem-Solution Fit: Is there a clear, meaningful problem in crypto or AI that the project can solve effectively?

• High-Caliber Founding Team: Do the founders demonstrate deep expertise, grit, and a willingness to learn and iterate?

• Market Potential: Does the solution address a sizeable market or a rapidly growing niche—ideally one that can impact both crypto and broader industries?

• Measurable Traction: Are there early pilots, prototypes, or user engagements indicating strong execution and momentum?

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4. What is the application process?

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1. Initial Online Application: Prospective partners describe their project, its AI or crypto focus, and any existing traction.

2. Screening: Advisors (including SpeechLab) review project materials to evaluate alignment with SHAFT’s mission.

3. Interview and Technical Deep Dive: Shortlisted teams have a meeting or call to discuss technology details, team capabilities, and project milestones.

4. Final Decision: Accepted projects receive funding offers, potential partnership agreements, and introductions to the broader SHAFT network.

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5. What kinds of projects get priority?

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We prioritize AI-focused solutions that:

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• Overcome Language Barriers: Tools for multilingual translation, voice interfaces, or other capabilities that broaden crypto participation globally.

• Simplify User Experience: Agentic or voice-discursive technologies allowing newcomers and non-technical audiences to safely navigate crypto platforms.

• Foster Accessibility: Systems that genuinely expand usability, from advanced UIs to intuitive AI-driven support for trading or decentralized finance.

• Empower Individuals with Disabilities: Solutions specifically addressing the unique needs of users with visual, hearing, cognitive, or other impairments, ensuring equitable participation in crypto and beyond.

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6. What are the benefits of partnering with SHAFT?

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• Capital and Networking: Access financial support, along with mentorship from DeFi specialists, AI engineers, and seasoned entrepreneurs.

• Early Access to Innovation: Collaborate on and gain exposure to cutting-edge agentic AI projects before they gain widespread traction.

• Community and Visibility: Leverage the SHAFT brand, attend partner events, and reach a global audience of AI and crypto enthusiasts.

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7. What are the expectations of a SHAFT partner?

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• Active Collaboration: Share insights, meet regularly with advisors, and support the broader SHAFT ecosystem’s growth.

• Governance Participation: Help shape strategy by voting under our bicameral governance system—if you acquire SHAFT tokens, you can also directly influence funding or policy proposals.

• Commitment to Accessibility: Focus on solutions that democratize crypto and AI, removing technical or financial barriers to entry.

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8. How does governance involve partners?

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• Foundation Council Oversight: A council (similar to a board) ensures SHAFT stays aligned with its mission.

• Token Holder Votes: Partners holding SHAFT tokens can propose and vote on initiatives, budget allocations, or new project additions.

• Transparency and Disclosure: Voters must disclose their real-world identity, ensuring accountability in major decisions.

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9. Can partners invest in SHAFT?

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Yes. Partners may:

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• Purchase SHAFT Tokens: Participate in governance and potentially benefit from staking and revenue-sharing.

• Contribute to the Foundation: Donations can be made to the Foundation wallet (0xe79548356245b31e8200185cb405165e3e46E10d), supporting our ongoing mission to back innovative AI.

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10. How do I get started?

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If your team has an AI-driven solution that supports crypto accessibility or usability:

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1. Check our Website: Learn more about SHAFT’s mission, token details, and active projects.

2. Submit an Application: Provide a brief overview of your solution’s AI approach, traction, and goals.

3. Prepare for Interviews: Highlight your team’s background, product roadmap, and how you plan to make crypto more inclusive.

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We look forward to working with ambitious founders who are committed to bridging the gap between AI and crypto for a more accessible future.

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