Some are centered around demo day.
Some are designed for exposure and visibility.

Protocol Camp is structured around a different objective: market validation.

The question we return to consistently is simple — would anyone actually use this?

If you’re considering applying, it’s important to be clear about what kind of outcome you want, and whether this structure aligns with how you prefer to build.

1) For people who genuinely want to solve real market problems

Many hackathons and startup programs conclude with a presentation. You build something compelling, you demo it well, and that’s the end of the cycle.

Our expectation is different. Over three months, teams are expected to launch something real and observe how the market responds.

In the last batch, teams conducted structured user interviews, refined positioning based on feedback, ran A/B tests, deployed products publicly, tracked conversion rates, and iterated based on measurable signals. Several teams explored multiple product directions before identifying stronger alignment.

The goal is not to defend your first idea. The goal is to test it properly.

If you are motivated by experimentation, direct feedback, and improving based on real user behavior, this environment will suit you.

2) For builders who are comfortable updating their thinking

Almost every team entered with conviction about their initial idea. Many revised it. Some pivoted after mid-demo when early signals were clear.

The teams that progressed fastest were not necessarily the ones who were correct from the start. They were the ones who responded quickly to evidence.

In this camp, ideas are treated as hypotheses. If the data changes, direction changes.

If you can separate your identity from your first concept and make decisions based on user response rather than attachment, you will grow here.

3) For people who prioritize execution

We prioritize working products over extended debate.

Each week, progress is expected to show up in something tangible: a deployed feature, a live experiment, measurable traction, or documented user feedback.

“Working” means accessible to users and capable of generating real signals. It is not enough for something to run locally. It needs to be exposed to real usage.

In previous batches, teams came to check-ins with live links, dashboards, and experiment summaries. That is the level of accountability we operate at.

If you prefer building, shipping, and iterating in short cycles, this structure will push you in the right direction.

Who Protocol Camp Probably Isn’t For

If you’re looking for guaranteed validation, this is not that environment.

If your primary goal is networking, brand exposure, or a polished demo moment, there are programs better aligned with those outcomes.

If you expect a predefined roadmap for what to build, you may find this process demanding.

You will be expected to make decisions based on user feedback and measurable results.

Conclusion: What This Means for You?

Protocol Camp is designed for builders who want to test ideas against the market, not just present them.

It’s for teams willing to launch, measure, and adjust over three months. It’s for people who treat ideas as hypotheses and are prepared to change direction when the evidence requires it.

It is not designed for guaranteed validation or comfortable momentum.

If this aligns with how you want to build, we encourage you to apply.

📌 Cohort 9 will run from April 13 to July 3, 2026, and applications are currently open until March 22, 2026.

Apply to Protocol Camp Cohort 9

Written by Jun Lee, Lead Mentor at Protocol Camp

Protocol Camp Cohort 8 just wrapped. I wanted to write down a few reflections while it’s still clear in my mind. ✍️

If you’re thinking about joining the next cohort, I hope this helps you understand what this is actually like.

Why I started this

I’ve been in crypto for almost 10 years. And the longer I stay, the more I’m convinced of one thing.

We need more truly great builders.

A lot of money and talent have entered this space. Still, mass adoption hasn’t shown up in a real way. The gap between blockchain’s potential and things people genuinely use is still wide.

I don’t think the bridge is another narrative. I think it’s products!

Good products are what unlock the full potential of this tech. I’m still waiting for that day to feel obvious, and I want to help pull it closer.

I also remember my own early days in crypto. Everything felt unfamiliar: the concepts, the market logic, even the language people used. I struggled more than I expected. And I kept thinking, if there were a place that helped builders understand the ecosystem, build something real, and learn from the market quickly, that would’ve saved me years.

So I asked myself: How can I contribute in a way that matters, especially to builders?

Then I found the initiative that became Protocol Camp Asia edition. And honestly, I’ve been one of the most motivated people in the room ever since, because this work feels worth doing.

What I actually did as a mentor/operator

I’m a developer, and I’ve spent a lot of time in early-stage startups. I’ve lived that messy “0 → 1” phase. You sketch the first version, ship too early, fix it, launch again, and learn from the market the hard way.

So naturally, I wanted to help teams with things like:

• shaping a product direction from a fuzzy starting point

• building fast without breaking everything

• launching early and learning fast

• handling feedback without losing the plot

But I tried not to be the person who tells teams what to do.

What I cared about more was helping teams get to their goal, under their direction, with less waste and more momentum.

We started with two weeks of education sessions. We invited experts from the blockchain industry, and I also ran sessions myself. That wasn’t for “more content.” It was to clear the ground so that once the camp really started, teams could focus on building.

During the build phase, I met each team weekly for about 30 minutes. It wasn’t a formal review. More like: Where are you stuck? What do you need this week? Who do you need to talk to?

Sometimes it was VC feedback.
Sometimes it was intros for customer interviews.
Sometimes it was an architecture problem that needed a clean way out.

My job was basically to listen carefully, help remove blockers, and keep the pace honest.

The moments I won’t forget ⚡

The best moments were watching teams notice the problem themselves and move.

In this recent cohort, almost half the teams looked at the mid-demo feedback and decided, “This doesn’t match the market.” And they pivoted.

That’s a painful call.

What impressed me wasn’t the pivot itself. It was what happened after.

With about six weeks left, teams were proposing multiple hypotheses, testing them, pulling real numbers, and then rebuilding around what they learned. Not hand-wavy “validation.” Actual experiments. Actual signals.

And by the final demo, most of them had something that felt production-level. Working. Shippable. Not perfect, but real.

Seeing teams recover under pressure, with fast decisions and fast execution, that’s one of the strongest memories I’m taking from this cohort. 🔥

The question I wrestled with the most

Here’s the hardest part of crypto building: The market doesn’t care that your tech is new.

A lot of crypto products get built. Most don’t last. Often the engineering is solid. But the product doesn’t land because it’s not solving a need people truly feel.

So I kept coming back to the same question, over and over.

What problem should we solve with this technology so real users actually show up?

That’s not a philosophical question. It’s an operating question. And it’s also the builder’s job in this industry, I think.

So with teams, the conversation often turned into something very practical. How do we test market need quickly, cheaply, and honestly, within a short timeframe?

Not “build for months and hope.” Test, learn, adjust. Repeat.

If you’re considering the next cohort 🚪

Protocol Camp isn’t a place where you build an idea and then move on.

It’s a place where you try to build something that can survive contact with the market and generate real reactions. So if what you want is not just making something, but actually solving a problem people have, this program is for you.

One more thing: the next cohort will lean much more into AI. Because of AI, the cost of building has dropped a lot, and we’re entering a world where even non-developers can build MVPs that used to require a full engineering team.

So if you can’t code yet, it’s okay.

If you have a problem you care about, we’ll show you how to use AI to build, test, and iterate inside the camp. Practically, not as a buzzword.

If that sounds like you, I’d love to see you in the next cohort. 🙌

Stay tuned for details on our upcoming application period at www.protocolcamp.com

Now, let’s dive into his story and insights from Protocol Camp, where he took on the Product Owner role for OneMap—a social app that uses NFTs to turn travel memories into digital collectibles. Users can check in at destinations and earn unique NFTs by local artists, capturing each place’s cultural essence.

Experience & Growth

What motivated you to join Protocol Camp?

What motivated me was the opportunity to explore new innovations in the Web3 space and step outside my usual way of thinking. I saw Protocol Camp as more than just a bootcamp or competition—it was a chance to gain deep, hands-on knowledge, collaborate with passionate people, and push myself beyond my comfort zone. The camp's structure, with its extended timeline and access to experts, really stood out to me as a place where real ideas could take shape and become something tangible.

What’s one thing you built, learned, or overcame that surprised you during Protocol Camp?

We learned to think differently, and the way of processing ideas was also unique. For me, it was about overcoming myself and gaining a lot of knowledge, especially on new innovations. That’s what stood out the most during the camp.

What was your favorite or most memorable moment from Protocol Camp, and why?

My favorite moment was having time to truly study and develop our concept. With a three-month timeline, it was the perfect period to grow ideas from the ground up. I also enjoyed collaborating with my team and other teams—everyone was friendly, open-minded, and supportive. Seeing other teams' projects was very inspiring and made the camp fun and energizing.

Innovation & Collaboration

How was your experience working with people from other teams and backgrounds, especially international participants?

Even though my team is from the same company, this camp reignited our passion. The new information and environment gave us fresh energy. Meeting international participants like Tze Wei, Rob and the CMUBA team was also valuable—we connected as friends and shared opinions. It helped me realize that a good idea isn’t just individual; it’s shaped by collaboration and feedback from diverse perspectives.

Have you joined other hackathons or bootcamps before? If so, what makes Protocol Camp unique compared to those experiences?

Yes, I’ve joined bootcamps and hackathons before, but Protocol Camp stands out because of its extended timeline. Most hackathons are very short, so you have to act fast without time to validate ideas. Here, we had time to think, process, revise, and get feedback from mentors and partners. That made our project more realistic and closer to becoming a viable product.

Was there any mentor or individual during the camp who was especially helpful to you?

Yes, definitely. You (the coordinator) were incredibly helpful in guiding us through each step and keeping us informed. Also, Jun (Tech Lead & Protocol Camp Mentor) was invaluable on the technical side. Our developer really appreciated how clearly Jun explained things. Beyond technical support, Jun also helped shape our concept with future potential in mind.

Future Impact & Recommendation

What are you and your team working on now, after the camp? Are you continuing the project?

Yes, we’re currently in discussions with partners. Our first-phase code is done, and we’re finalizing features to turn it into a demo for pitching to more investors. We’re very committed to bringing this idea to life.

Do you plan to continue building blockchain or Web3-related products in the future?

Yes, while our current project focuses on NFTs, we’re also exploring blockchain in fintech—like tokenization and digital payments. Our developer is especially interested in these areas. We’re aiming to pitch these ideas to clients in Thailand, starting with something like a CRM coin.

Would you recommend Protocol Camp to others? Why or why not?

Absolutely! I’d recommend it to anyone interested in Web3. This camp offers not only competition but also knowledge, mentorship, and tools to help you build real projects. Even if you don’t have an idea initially, the camp will help you develop one. You’ll also meet investors and build valuable connections.

If someone is deciding whether to join Protocol Camp, what would you say to them?

If you’re someone who seeks opportunities, Protocol Camp is the right place. You’ll get support, great facilities, mentorship, and a strong community. There’s nothing to hesitate about—just join!

🚀

We hope you enjoy reading this interview with Korrakot. And, if you are looking for a partner in Thailand to grow your business, feel free to reach out to the Undefined team at info@undefined.co.th.

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Interested in joining Protocol Camp upcoming cohort? Visit our website for more details and subscribe to the mailing list at the bottom of the page to stay updated.

My name is Tze Wei, and I've been involved in Web2 projects across different sectors for over a decade. I've taken on various roles—Project Manager, Business Analyst, Software Developer—so I've got a pretty diverse background in Web2. Over the past year, I decided to commit myself to learning more about Web3 and its potential as an industry of the future. Joining Protocol Camp was the first step in my journey to deepen my understanding and skill set in Web3.

Experience & Growth

What motivated you to join Protocol Camp in the first place?

I wanted hands-on experience building on blockchain. I initially attended Web3 conferences to understand the space, but quickly found it overwhelming because there are so many moving parts and everything changes rapidly. I needed a more structured environment, and that’s what Protocol Camp offered—an opportunity to build something real with guidance. I also appreciated having experienced technical and business mentors to evaluate not just the feasibility of our blockchain implementation but also its commercial viability.

What was your favorite part or a memorable moment during Protocol Camp?

One of the most memorable moments was demo day—seeing all the teams present the final state of their projects after months of work. It felt like the culmination of everything we worked toward. Also, the informal interactions with other participants and the ShardLab team were incredibly enriching and memorable.

Innovation & Collaboration

Can you explain the product your team worked on—TrustTrack? Also, what’s one thing you built, learned, or overcame that surprised you?

Our team built TrustTrack, a charitable giving platform that publishes donation details onto the Aptos blockchain. Initially, we had to figure out how everything fit together—from the Web2 front end to blockchain integration—but it became clear fairly quickly. The team was remote and diverse, so from the start, TrustTrack was designed with global perspectives in mind.

What surprised me most was how fast we could build and iterate. I expected blockchain development to be slow and complex, but we were able to build a working prototype in a month and improve it rapidly with user feedback—even though I had almost no blockchain programming experience before Protocol Camp.

How was it working with people from different countries and cultural backgrounds?

We brought different skills and perspectives, which led to really interesting discussions. TrustTrack wasn’t our first idea; it evolved from many conversations. Because of our cultural and geographic diversity, we built something that made sense universally. It helped us think more holistically, beyond the scope of a single country. If you want to build a globally scalable product, team diversity really matters.

Do you think having a team with diverse roles (not just developers) benefited your project?

Yes, definitely. Most hackathons skew heavily toward developers. At Protocol Camp, our team had two developers and one designer. I don’t think we would have come up with TrustTrack without the designer. Beyond UX/UI, the designer provided critical non-technical insights—like product viability, go-to-market strategies, and user targeting. That kind of diversity really strengthened our project.

What’s something unique about Protocol Camp compared to other hackathons you’ve attended?

Unlike typical hackathons where you only have 2–3 days to build a proof of concept, Protocol Camp gives you a much longer time frame. That allows you to validate your ideas, test them in real-world scenarios, and build something meaningful. You feel a stronger sense of ownership and responsibility. Some teams even continue working on their projects as startups. That longevity and depth of experience is what sets Protocol Camp apart.

Future Impact & Recommendation

What are you currently doing after Protocol Camp, and are you planning to continue in Web3?

Protocol Camp gave me the confidence to build on blockchain, so afterward, I continued exploring other aspects of Web3. I'm particularly interested in the intersection of Web3 and AI. I’ve been looking into projects in this space—either to contribute to or to emulate for building my own. I’m exploring both employment opportunities and ideas worth developing as solo or startup projects. It's an exciting time because everyone is still early in the Web3 space.

What would you say to someone who’s unsure about joining Protocol Camp? Would you recommend it?

Yes, absolutely. There’s no downside. You get access to dedicated technical and business mentors, and a structured framework to build your project without distractions. You invest in yourself, learn blockchain programming, and come out more confident in Web3. If you're serious about understanding Web3, this is the place to start. The only limitation is whether you're lucky enough to be accepted.

We hope you enjoy this interview with Tze Wei!

If you’re interested in joining our upcoming cohort in August 2025, visit our website and subscribe to the mailing list at the bottom of the page to stay updated.

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Hi Rob, please introduce yourself to our readers 👋

Hi! I'm Rob, a full-stack developer who's been immersed in the world of software for over 15 years now. Time really flies when you're having fun coding! The majority of my career was spent in the United Kingdom, where I had the opportunity to work in both large companies and small- to medium-sized ones. In all of them, I learned valuable and diverse skills and ways of working.

However, I left the UK in search of a better quality of life, and that's why I now live in Thailand. I have no plans to return to the UK. Right now, I'm very excited about the idea of getting my Solidity certification, with a special focus on making smart contracts secure and auditing them well. While I'm studying, I'm also tinkering with some interesting little projects and am always open to new and exciting opportunities.

On top of all that, I'm currently exploring the best ways to integrate AI into my daily work. It's fascinating to see the possibilities! Beyond code, I also firmly believe in sharing what I know through teaching. It's incredibly rewarding to help others on their learning journeys.

Experience & Growth

What motivated you to join Protocol Camp? 🚀

This is an easy question. I’ve been working as a full stack and backend developer for 15 years, but I had never participated in anything like this before. So my first motivation was simply to try something new. I was also in the process of shifting professionally — starting to explore the blockchain space and transitioning from Web2 to Web3. I saw this as a great opportunity to start experimenting with blockchain technology. Those two reasons — gaining a new experience and stepping into Web3 — were my main motivations. I also thought it might lead to future job opportunities in the blockchain field.

How has protocol camp changed the way you think about Web3 or your career in general?

I was already very clear about wanting to move into the blockchain space. But one thing that changed for me was the way of working — it became more collaborative. I usually work alone, so this experience pushed me to meet people from different backgrounds, share ideas, and adapt to different working styles. Of course, working in a company is different because it's a formal job. But this felt like a mix — it was a learning experience, but also felt like real work since we had to deliver a project. Professionally, it hasn’t changed my career path just yet, but through this process, I discovered a protocol that I found genuinely interesting.

What’s one thing you built, learned, or overcame that surprised you?

I was surprised by how much I learned about the blockchain and creating modules on Aptos, our chain sponsor, during Protocol Camp. I didn’t know much at first — I had just started learning about Aptos two months before Protocol Camp. I can definitely say that I learned a lot during the camp, especially thanks to Jun (Dev Mentor) who really helped me improve my skills as a backend and blockchain developer.

What was your favorite part or memorable moment from the Protocol Camp and why?

For me, it was really nice — I can’t pick just one moment. Actually, every moment was special because I got to meet so many good people. Everyone was so kind to me. Whether it was in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or during the knowledge-sharing sessions, the whole experience meant a lot. It’s hard to choose just one highlight.

Innovation & Collaboration

What was your team/project about? 👀

The project was called TrustTrack. The idea was to create a platform that helps raise funds for charity and social impact projects. Donors could send money through the app using Aptos cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. That was the initial concept — to build something within the Aptos ecosystem that makes it easy for people to support meaningful causes through crypto donations.

How was working with people from other countries and backgrounds?

Tze Wei and I came from different language backgrounds, but we had similar professional experience — we were both full stack developers working on the same project. The experience was good overall, but I think our team could have been more balanced. For example, having one front-end developer, one back-end developer, and a designer would’ve made collaboration easier. Still, it worked out well. Tze Wei is stronger on the front end, I was more interested in the blockchain side and Ming is an amazing designer, so we ended up complementing each other. It was a good experience.

Future Impact & Recommendation

What are you doing now after the camp? 🧑‍💻

I'm still freelancing like before, but now I’m actively looking for more blockchain-related projects. It’s been a bit of a challenge because my background is stronger in Web2, so jumping into Web3 feels like starting from scratch.Lately, I’ve also been working on projects involving AI. Honestly, I can’t imagine doing my job without it anymore. It really feels like: use AI or get left behind.

For anyone thinking about joining Protocol Camp, I strongly recommend building a solid foundation in AI. If you're not comfortable with it, you're going to fall behind fast. That said, it's not just about prompting tools — you still need to understand what you're doing. You need to be able to code by hand, analyze with your own eyes, and then let AI amplify that. If you can combine both — human skill and AI — you’re basically Superman. That’s the best advice I can give right now.

Do you consider (starting or continuing) working in Web3 after Protocol Camp?

I’m not working in Web3 full-time right now, but I do have my own side projects that help me practice and keep learning. At the moment, tech is evolving in two major directions — AI and blockchain — so for us Web2 developers, it feels like we have to learn both at the same time. It’s a lot to take in, and I’m still in that process of adapting.

That said, I’ve never stopped working. I’m involved in some AI-related projects and also collaborating with a friend’s company. We’re building a lot of things together — just not in a traditional 8-hour-a-day Web3 role yet.

How was your experience working with the mentors during Protocol Camp?

Very good — I don’t even have other words. Jun (Tech Lead & Protocol Camp Mentor) is such a nice person and a great teacher. He explains things really well, and I’m just full of gratitude for him. I hope future Protocol Camp will have mentors like him next time around, too.

We hope this interview with Rob gives you a glimpse into what it’s like to be part of Protocol Camp, our Web3 bootcamp!

If you’re interested in joining our upcoming cohort in August 2025, visit our website and subscribe to the mailing list at the bottom of the page to stay updated.

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What is a Web3 Bootcamp?

A Web3 bootcamp is an intensive learning program designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the decentralized internet ecosystem. Traditionally focused on helping developers transition into the Web3 space, these bootcamps dive deep into blockchain technology, smart contracts, decentralized applications (dApps), crypto economics, and the broader principles of decentralization.

Most programs emphasize hands-on learning—offering coding projects, mentorship, and real-world case studies to build real confidence in blockchain development. Participants typically learn to build dApps on platforms like Ethereum or Solana, write smart contracts using Solidity, and explore tools like wallets, DAOs, and DeFi protocols.

What is Protocol Camp?

Originally launched in February 2022 by Hashed and Hanwha Life, Protocol Camp is a 12-week intensive bootcamp designed to empower the next generation of blockchain builders in Korea. Its mission? To strengthen the blockchain ecosystem by providing builders and entrepreneurs with the skills, mentorship, and hands-on experience needed to drive real innovation.

While most bootcamps mainly focus on developers, we're taking it a step further. Protocol Camp now welcomes designers, product managers, business planners, founders, and anyone passionate about building in Web3. Our goal is to foster a collaborative, community-driven environment where learners engage with real blockchain communities and stay ahead in this rapidly evolving space. More than just a course, Protocol Camp is a launchpad into the decentralized future.

Since 2024, ShardLab has been leading the Protocol Camp initiative, expanding into other parts of Asia while staying true to its original vision. With a renewed focus on nurturing diverse talent across the region, the program is helping cultivate the next generation of Web3 innovators and build a more sustainable blockchain future.

Protocol Camp in Southeast Asia

Our very first Southeast Asia cohort brought together 10 passionate Web3 builders, forming three teams based in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hua Hin and Singapore. We kicked things off during Devcon SEA with a team-building workshop and a product brainstorming session in Bangkok, setting the stage for the 12-week journey ahead.

Throughout the program, participants teamed up to bring their ideas to life, supported by bi-weekly advising sessions and continuous feedback. We also hosted mentoring sessions with industry experts and alumni, packed with real-world insights, tips, and honest advice from those who’ve been there. To help participants grow beyond their projects, we offered 1:1 coaching sessions where they could map out their personal career paths.

To celebrate their progress, we organized two in-person Demo Days — one midway through the program and one at the end — where teams pitched their products to a panel of judges and the wider community.

Meet the Teams

Tom Yum Coin

This winning team created TrustTrack, a Web3 + AI fundraising platform that helps both individuals and companies donate more effectively by using Donor-Advised Funds to maximize tax benefits. An AI agent, Morgan, trained on annual reports from registered charities, helps donors verify information and make better giving decisions.

Contact the team:

• Ming (Product Designer) – mingpornchai@gmail.com

• Rob (Smart Contract Developer) – info@backtechservices.com

• Tze Wei (Web3 + AI Developer) – lurk-sadness-herbs@duck.com

CMUBA

Hailing from the Chiang Mai University Blockchain Association, CMUBA launched Arcadia, a decentralized location-based game that connects players with local businesses. Players complete quests, earn Points (PNTs), and redeem them for real-world rewards, driving foot traffic and boosting small business sales. Arcadia blends gaming, commerce, and blockchain transparency to build stronger, more connected communities. Find out more: http://cmuba.org

Undefined

Also from Chiang Mai, the Undefined team introduced OneMap, a travel + social app that transforms your journeys into NFT-powered memories. Users can check in at destinations and collect unique NFTs designed by local artists, preserving cultural moments through blockchain technology. Whether you’re exploring new places or reliving old favorites, OneMap turns travel memories into lasting digital collectibles. Learn more: https://undefined.co.th/en

We're opening applications again this summer! Be sure to subscribe to our mailing list on the website so you’re the first to hear about all the updates. Don’t miss out on your chance to join the next cohort 🚀

Also, stay connected by following ShardLab on X and join our LinkedIn.