FinTech Factory LunchTime Series – 8

Fundl’s Data Plugin ecosystem

About The Talk

Abstract

This session introduces Fundl’s Data Plugin ecosystem, a new approach to decentralized fundraising that transforms static crowdfunding pages into real-time, verifiable growth dashboards. We will explore how Fundl aggregates live signals from sources such as GitHub, Stripe, Google Analytics, social platforms, and market benchmarks to surface trustworthy indicators of momentum and execution. The discussion will cover the challenges of reducing information asymmetry in early-stage investing, the design of high-trust data plugins layered on top of decentralized fundraising and the strategic rationale behind a data-first model. Participants will gain an inside look at how Fundl enables backers to identify high-potential projects earlier, perform deeper due diligence, and participate in crowdfunding with venture-grade insight at mass-market scale.

Market Opportunity

Crowdfunding platforms represent a US$2.14 billion market (2024) dominated by incumbents like GoFundMe and Kickstarter. Fundl positions itself as a blockchain-powered alternative capable of disrupting the space by offering greater transparency, accessibility, and efficiency.

Key Features of Fundl

Decentralised fundraising

On-chain transparency showing how much funding is raised and how funds are used
Smart contracts enabling programmable accountability
Cross-border participation with reduced reliance on traditional banking systems
Open participation for both creators and backers

Benefits for project creators

Lower platform fees (2.5% vs ~5% on traditional platforms)
Open access without centralized gatekeeping
Streaming payments, where pledged funds are released over time through smart contracts

Benefits for funders

Transparent and trackable transactions on the blockchain
Refund mechanisms via majority voting
Early adopter benefits such as lifetime pricing or priority access
Real-time execution metrics (e.g., GitHub activity, revenue signals)

Credibility Through Verified Data

Fundl integrates external platforms such as Stripe, GitHub, and Google Analytics to create a system of record for project metrics. These integrations help:

Prevent inflated metrics
Provide objective benchmarks for comparing projects
Replace narrative fundraising with verifiable evidence of traction
Reduce perceived risk for backers

Strategic Feedback from Discussion

Participants suggested potential enhancements:

Introduce fixed donation tiers and flexible contribution models
Enable non-monetary contributions (e.g., coding, marketing) with rewards such as revenue share or project equity
Explore an always-on fundraising model structured in seasons or batches to maintain engagement

Fundl Next Steps:

Complete remaining integrations and prepare for mainnet deployment
Conduct targeted outreach to creators already active online or building publicly
Leverage startup ecosystems such as Product Hunt, accelerators, and university entrepreneurship programs

About The Speaker

Poh Say Keong – Undergraduate · School of computing · NUS

Keith – Undergraduate · School of computing · NUS

ABOUT THE SERIES

The FinTech Factory Lunchtime Series brings together researchers and industry experts to discuss emerging developments in financial technology. Through guest talks and interactive discussions, the series explores topics such as decentralized systems, digital finance, blockchain infrastructure, and the evolving relationship between technology and financial markets.