An NFT project bringing together inspiring people is looking to make a philanthropic and social impact.
The 1 Club, described as a new breed of private members club, is powered by the blockchain and has a limited membership of 11,111.
Invited members are able to purchase the NFT, which grants a lifetime membership and access to the club and its benefits and can be sold to others in future as its value rises. The startup says this transforms the traditional members club model from an annual expense to an asset increasing in value over time.
Founded by entrepreneurs Akshay Ruparelia, Danu Kumanan and Akash Ruparelia, the idea was conceived when they together discussed the power that a professional network can have. They now plan to harness this power to collaboratively support new business ventures, philanthropic initiatives and social causes around the world.
Joining them on this journey are the Ambassadors for The 1 Club, whose number already includes high-profile names such as Jay Sean, Reebok co-founder Joe Foster and Marisa Peer.
Physical and virtual events, and retreats, will encourage collaboration alongside an exclusive social networking app. Benefits already in place through partnerships include London members club Tramp and luxury brand Aspinal.
In addition, 20% of the royalty fees generated by membership will be dedicated to philanthropic causes and endeavours, with space for members to suggest, support and be involved in further charitable projects and initiatives.
The 1 Club has already partnered with Project Hope, a global health and humanitarian relief organisation, and World Central Kitchen, a not-for-profit non-governmental organisation devoted to providing meals in the wake of natural disasters.
The direction of The 1 Club will be decided by the members, an example of the power of decentralisation made possible by the use of blockchain.
Membership is available through one of three routes: selection by the founders, direct applications from the website or invitation from an existing member.
“The 1 Club is designed to be the place where the most talented entrepreneurs, the most gifted artists and the most driven athletes can come together to inspire each other to make a positive impact on the world,” said CEO Akshay Ruparelia.
“Whether it be personally, professionally or on a social impact level, we are making it our goal to help our members achieve their potential and reach their ambitions by creating the world’s most impactful network.”
Danu Kamanan, CTO of The 1 Club, said: “Unlike other NFT-based projects, we are not promising the world in order to sell out on day one; rather we have set up a utility roadmap which will mean membership to The 1 Club becomes a more and more powerful tool as we welcome more individuals into the club.”