For years, blockchain—and its poster child, cryptocurrency—has had a reputation problem. Skeptics fear crypto’s potential to finance illicit activities, from money laundering to fraud. But blockchain technology itself is neutral, and its potential for positive impact is undeniable. When applied ethically and thoughtfully, blockchain can drive real change, from empowering individuals to tackling global challenges.
And nobody understands this better than Mariana de la Roche Wills, whom I talked to on our Growth Leap Podcast. As founder and CEO of de la Roche W Consulting, she’s spent over six years at the intersection of blockchain innovation and regulation. Mariana is known for her ability to bridge the gap between industry leaders and policymakers, driving responsible and ethical tech practices.
Her resume speaks volumes. Mariana co-chairs the International Association for Trusted Blockchain Applications (INATBA), where she champions blockchain’s role in advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals. She also leads the BC100+ initiative, leveraging blockchain to address pressing global issues like financial inclusion and climate action.
Beyond INATBA, Mariana serves as a board member of ThinkBlockThink, a Luxembourg-based legal think tank. She’s also part of the EU Blockchain Observatory and Forum and contributes to the Dynamic Coalition of the Internet Governance Forum at the UN. With a background in law and public policy, Mariana is shaping the future of blockchain technology for social good.
Here are some of the fascinating topics that we covered. Make sure you listen to the full episode.
We live in a data-heavy world, and our personal information has become a hot commodity. AI and Big Tech need data to thrive, but often, they get our details without our consent or giving us any benefit. Blockchain flips the script. It lets individuals own and control their data, granting access only when it’s beneficial to them.
Mariana put it best: “Blockchain gives the power of data back to people. With it, we can secure our data, decide who uses it, and get incentives in return.” This isn’t just theoretical—blockchain’s decentralized nature makes it practical. In a Web3 future, we, the users, could well hold the keys to our digital identities.
"With blockchain, we can give back the power of data to people. AI requires data, but that data normally comes from us, and we aren’t getting anything in return. Blockchain enables us to secure our data, decide who uses it, and even earn incentives for sharing it." - Mariana de la Roche Wills
Mariana shared a couple of interesting projects that exemplify blockchain’s versatility. EthicHub tackles financial inclusion in agriculture by creating transparent systems for rural communities. She also talked about Demia, which explores blockchain for managing carbon credits, aiming to make sustainability efforts measurable and trustworthy.
These examples highlight how blockchain can bridge gaps in systems often prone to inefficiency or corruption. By promoting accountability and transparency, the technology opens doors for impact startups to innovate in sectors like finance, environment, and beyond.
Cryptocurrencies offer a practical financial solution for communities that have been underserved or excluded by traditional banking systems. In regions with volatile currencies or limited credit access, stablecoins—cryptocurrencies tied to stable assets like the US dollar—are changing lives. They enable people to store and transfer value without the need for traditional banks.
Mariana points out, “Blockchain isn’t a magic solution for every problem, but when applied thoughtfully, it can make a real difference.” This insight is crucial for startups: success lies in pairing the right technology with the right challenge.
"Stablecoins are game-changing for countries with devalued currencies. They allow people in the global south to compete in international markets on equal terms, unlocking new economic opportunities." - Mariana de la Roche Wills
Blockchain’s applications don’t stop at finance. In Kenya, the TLIP project uses blockchain to streamline supply chains, reducing inefficiencies and empowering producers. The UN’s Building Blocks initiative leverages blockchain to distribute aid securely, ensuring resources reach those who need them most.
Mariana stresses that startups exploring blockchain should consider interoperability and open-source tools. “No need to reinvent the wheel,” she advises. Many blockchain frameworks are designed for collaboration, making it easier to build solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing systems.
Mariana’s journey from law and human rights and her current roles have given her a unique vantage point on blockchain technology and its real-life applications for good. She offers practical tips for impact startups looking to use blockchain and make a difference:
"Not every project needs blockchain. Sometimes, a simple database is enough. Start with the problem you're solving, assess if blockchain adds value, and don’t reinvent the wheel—leverage open-source tools and composability." - Mariana de la Roche Wills
Blockchain isn’t just a technology—it’s a movement with the potential to redefine industries and uplift communities. Mariana’s work reminds us of this technology’s power when applied thoughtfully, opening new opportunities for impact startups to drive meaningful change.
Where to find Mariana:
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