Shaunak Kulkarni@shaunakkuulkarni9

Convoy Protocol is a decentralized escrow and pooling platform built on the Arc blockchain that empowers small businesses to access wholesale pricing typically reserved for large buyers. Using smart contracts and instant USDC settlement, Convoy enables multiple small buyers to pool their orders and collectively meet supplier minimum order quantities (MOQs). For example, instead of a single coffee shop overpaying 40–100% for a 30–50 lb order through distributors, twelve buyers can join a Convoy pool, each depositing around $187 in USDC. Once the $2,250 MOQ (500 lbs) is reached, the smart contract automatically releases funds to the supplier — guaranteeing transparency, trust, and 40% savings for each participant. Beyond its core escrow functionality, Convoy introduces a robust AI-powered roadmap that elevates it beyond a simple pooling tool. The Pool Orchestrator AI Agent autonomously forms buyer groups based on real-time demand data, while additional agents handle tariff optimization, customs automation, and predictive supply chain rerouting. Together, these agents create a self-managing, intelligent procurement ecosystem. The business model combines transaction fees (2–3%), premium listing subscriptions ($99–299/month), and lucrative add-on services like freight booking, customs clearance, and quality inspection — yielding 92% gross margins. In future phases, Convoy plans to integrate “Buy Now, Pay Later” financing, launch a freight booking API, and expand globally with EURC support and a CONVOY governance token. By merging blockchain transparency, instant digital settlement, and autonomous AI agents, Convoy Protocol transforms fragmented small-buyer markets into powerful collective purchasers. The result is a scalable, data-driven supply chain network that delivers wholesale access, financial efficiency, and competitive parity to small businesses worldwide.

In this hybrid hackathon powered by Arc, developers will build the next generation of payment systems using AI + Arc with USDC. Explore a world where AI agents can understand natural language, automate financial actions, and move money with precision. From DeFi to digital content and real-world assets, this is your chance to shape the future of intelligent finance. 📅 October 27 – November 9, 2025 • Oct 27 – Nov 8 (Online Phase) – Collaborate and build with developers and AI innovators from around the world. All projects must be submitted by end of day on November 8. • Nov 8 (New York City – On-site Build Day) – Selected participants will be invited to an exclusive in-person session to refine their projects and connect directly. • Nov 9 (New York City – Live pitching & Awards) – Live pitching sessions to a panel of judges and investors, followed by the official winner announcement. 📍 On-site Venue (Nov 8–9): Babe Ruth Room, Jay Conference Chelsea 159 West 25th Street, New York City, USA 🧠 Get guidance from blockchain and AI experts throughout the event. 🤝 Go solo or team up — it's your flow. 🏆Compete for $10,000 in USDC prizes. 📍 On-site participation is by invitation only. Travel and accommodation expenses will not be covered. 🧑🏻‍💻 Secure your spot now — sign up before the Kick-Off Stream!