Satoshi Nakamoto created a revolutionary tool that is already changing our world. But it's up to us, the bitcoiners, to decide how we shape the future.
Bitcoin is a vast rabbit hole, touching on history, economics, literature, mathematics, computer science, and cryptography. No one can explore it all, and that's part of its beauty.
Since our time is limited, the key is to stay humble, keep learning, and exchange knowledge with others. That way, each of us can reach the level of understanding we seek.
Global Bitcoin communities therefore play a fundamental role in building tomorrow's world: spaces where bitcoiners can exchange, build and share. Together.
As you've seen throughout this course, building a Bitcoin community and organizing meet-ups requires both planning and motivation. Depending on your goals and the time you can commit, you might take on more ambitious projects or keep things simple.
Either way, the objective is the same: to spark interest and help Bitcoin to grow in your city.
To wrap up the many chapters and subchapters we've covered, here's a concise "action plan" for creating your Bitcoin community:
- Decide in advance why you want to create a Bitcoin community, what your goals are, and in which city or location you'll operate.
- Get in touch with the existing communities nearby, and don't hesitate to ask them for advice when you need it;
- Create a clear identity for your community that reflects your community and location (logo, poster, banner, flyer, etc.)
- Create communication channels and social networks like Telegram, Twitter, NOSTR, Discord or Simplex. Also consider decentralized and/or censorship-resistant channels.
- Follow other local meet-ups and communities online, and get your group listed on various maps and platforms to boost visibility.
Once your community's communication channels are active:
6) Launch a survey to propose your first meet-up once you feel enough interest building.
7) Define the objectives you want to achieve from this in-person event.
8) Choose a well-located, welcoming venue that aligns with your goals, and reserve a table or room.
9) Promote the event on your channels a week before, then again two to three days before the date.
10) List your event on relevant websites and platforms.
11) On the day, let the event flow naturally and engage with participants, gently steering discussions if needed.
Afterward:
12) Focus on retaining and involving participants so they return.
13) Suggest simple projects or initiatives and start those you personally care about. If someone else wants to lead a different project, support them where you can.
Finally:
14) Anticipate the future by thinking about a larger venue for meet-ups, rules for communication channels, a website, etc;
15) Encourage local businesses to accept Bitcoin, even by simply asking each time you shop there.
16) Delegate tasks and channel/network admin rights to trusted members.
17) Promote your community widely so more people join, and involve those who show interest.
18) Go even further with projects that you enjoy and that are important to you.
For a quicker overview, this 21-minutes video summarizes these steps:
Remember: you're not alone, existing communities are here to support you.