Web3 has a lot of exciting possibilities, but it’s easy to feel conflicted. On one hand, it’s a chance to work with cutting-edge technology. On the other hand, there’s the pressure to jump into projects that focus more on quick profits than on doing something meaningful.

For many pros, it’s a struggle to find a way to align personal values with the drive for financial success. The industry often feels dominated by hype, and it can be hard to figure out where to stand when it seems like everyone’s looking for the next big payout.

In this article, I’ll highlight some of these Web3 projects and explain how professionals in the industry can support initiatives that create positive change.

The Struggle Between Speculation and Ethical

When Web3 first began, it was all about the next big coin, the next moonshot. The excitement and potential for fast profits created a rush to jump in, with many forgetting to ask: "What problem does this really solve?"

Over the years, I’ve noticed that this focus on speculation has left many of us wondering about our role in the industry. Can we use blockchain to do more than just make money?

Thankfully, more and more projects are proving that blockchain can create value that matters. These projects go beyond the hype and are focused on delivering value that lasts.

Projects That Are Doing Real Good

There are many projects in Web3 that aim to create a lasting impact. Here are some notable ones contributing to the greater good.

1. UnBlocked Cash (UBC) by Oxfam

Oxfam's UnBlocked Cash (UBC) project is a humanitarian aid delivery system that uses blockchain to deliver cash aid rapidly and transparently to disaster-affected communities, reducing delivery time by 96% and cutting distribution costs by 75%.

2. UNHCR’s Blockchain Aid Program

UNHCR, in partnership with Circle and Stellar, is implementing a blockchain-based aid program using the Stellar network and Circle's USDC stablecoin to distribute cash assistance to displaced Ukrainians. This pilot program, called Stellar Aid Assist, aims to provide digital aid through mobile wallets and facilitates cash withdrawals at MoneyGram locations.

3. Mercy Corps Ventures

Mercy Corps Ventures is the impact investing arm of Mercy Corps, a global development agency operating in over 40 countries. One of its pilots was empowering rural farmers in Africa with access to loans via stablecoins, promoting financial inclusion and economic growth.

4. Big Green DAO

Big Green DAO is combining nonprofit missions with decentralized governance to revolutionize philanthropic grant funding, enhancing transparency and community involvement. Right now, they’ve got a $3 million treasury and have provided over $2 million in funding.

Key Themes in Impact-Focused Web3 Projects

When you look at projects that are doing good, there are a few things they all have in common:

1. Accessibility: These projects aim to make valuable services available to a broader audience. They’re breaking down barriers and making sure everyone has a chance to benefit.

2. Trust: They focus on being transparent with their users. They make sure people understand how things work and why they should trust the platform.

3. Long-term thinking: These projects aren’t chasing quick wins. They focus on sustainability, aiming to create something that lasts.

4. Community: Many of these projects prioritize building strong, engaged communities. They’re about more than just the technology—they’re about creating systems that people can connect with and benefit from.

How to Evaluate Web3 Projects with Ethics in Mind

If you're wondering how to identify these projects, here's a framework I've developed after working with dozens of Web3 companies:

Look beyond the hype

It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the latest trend. But take a closer look. Does the project have a clear mission? Is it solving a real problem?

Ask yourself: Could this problem be solved without blockchain? If yes, why aren't existing solutions working?

The best ethical Web3 projects tackle problems where traditional systems have failed due to trust, transparency, or accessibility issues.

Consider the team

Who's behind the project? Are they experienced and trustworthy? A strong, committed team is key to a project's long-term success.

Look for:

• Previous experience in the problem space (not just crypto experience)

• Public profiles and reputations you can verify

• Advisors with relevant expertise

• Clear governance structures if it's a DAO

Red flags include anonymous teams making big promises, advisors who seem disconnected from the project's mission, or leadership that changes frequently without explanation.

Check for transparency

A strong team is crucial for long-term success, but how they communicate matters just as much.

Ethical projects typically provide:

• Clear documentation about how their technology works

• Regular updates on progress and setbacks

• Open-source code where possible

• Honest communication about limitations and risks

• Accessible explanations for non-technical users

If you can't understand what they're building or how it works after reading their materials, that's usually a warning sign.

Think about social impact

Does the project aim to improve people's lives? Look for projects focused on creating positive change, not just profit.

Strong ethical projects will have:

• Clear metrics for measuring social impact

• Regular reporting on outcomes (not just inputs or promises)

• Stories from actual beneficiaries or users

• Third-party validation of their claims

• Partnerships with established organizations in their problem space

Be wary of projects that talk about "changing the world" but can't point to specific people they've already helped.

Look for sustainability

Is the project built to last? Does it have a clear, sustainable business model, or is it only focused on short-term gains?

Examine their economics:

• How do they generate revenue beyond token appreciation?

• Do they have partnerships with organizations that will pay for their services?

• Is their growth model dependent on constant new user acquisition, or do existing users become more valuable over time?

• Can they operate effectively even if crypto markets crash?

The best ethical Web3 projects have found ways to create value that doesn't depend entirely on speculation or market sentiment.

How to Align Your Work with Your Values

If you’re trying to make sure your work in Web3 aligns with your values, here are some ways to get started:

1. Support ethical projects: Find projects that solve real problems and create lasting value.

2. Advocate for transparency: Push for transparency in the projects you work with.

3. Keep learning: Stay informed about Web3 trends, especially those that make a positive impact.

4. Inspire others: Encourage your network to focus on projects that do good.

Focus on What Matters in Web3

Web3 has the potential to change lives. But we need to focus on projects that create real value, not just chase quick profits.

If you want to do work that matters, look beyond the latest trend. Find projects that align with your values, and support those that focus on lasting impact, not speculation.

Want to make a difference? Get behind ethical Web3 projects, and let’s help build a better future for everyone.