Web3’s Impact on Law and Society Conference Wrap-up

MNblockchain Web3 & Law Conference at the University of St. Thomas School of Law in downtown Minneapolis brought together a diverse group of law students, business professionals, and blockchain enthusiasts. This event positioned Minnesota as a hub for blockchain and Web3 technology discussions.

The conference began with a deep dive into the “Big Picture” of Web3 technology, led by technologist and futurist Robert Tercek. Following this, a panel of experts in Web3 solutions addressed corruption in centralized systems, focusing on innovative approaches like Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs). Breakout groups led by panelists with academic and industry expertise facilitated further discussion.

The event continued with sessions that shifted focus from theoretical discussions to practical applications of Web3 technologies. A key session on legal compliance for blockchain-related businesses featured attorneys, legal advisors, and blockchain entrepreneurs who shared their experiences navigating new and evolving legal landscapes.

Highlights included a panel on the implications of AI on intellectual property, led by prominent Minnesotan IP attorney William Schultz. Another session explored the future of commerce with insights into how Bitcoin and AI can revolutionize economic systems. A discussion on governance featured startup society investor Niklas Anzinger and Minnesota Congressman Tom Emmer, who provided updates on blockchain advocacy efforts at the federal level.

Featured videos: we went to Washington, D.C., first to hear from Minnesota’s own blockchain champion Congressman, Tom Emmer (MN-6). Emmer offered some words of encouragement for our blockchain builders in Minnesota and shared some updates on his advocacy work for the industry. The final presenter of the day discussed some of what Emmer addressed (regulations by federal agencies). Two videos from the conference are now available for viewing: an interview with Startup Societies Expert Niklas Anzinger, offering a glimpse into the rise of new governance models worldwide, and a panel, “Commerce on Chain,” which discusses how Bitcoin and digital assets reshape commerce.

Attendees were vocal in their appreciation of the event: “There was some great content, and it always adds to what I teach my students,” said one attendee. “Congrats on a fantastic event. I really felt like the whole day was well organized and went very smoothly,” said another.

We thank the University of St. Thomas School of Law for cohosting the event, our dedicated event committee and volunteers, and our sponsors for their generous support: Merchant & Gould P.C., Fredrikson & Byron, P.A., Moss & Barnett, P.A., Digi Frontier, and Quantum Lex.

Speakers and hosts included Robert Tercek (keynote), Wulf Kaal PhD, Rafael Mojden, Tony Greenberg, Ladd Hoffman, Craig Calcaterra, Jonathan Kung, Joseph Reiben, Grant Cermak, Josh Bykowski, Hayley Drury Howe, William Schultz, Stephen Lee, Andrew Lagatta, Jim Sullivan, Christopher Ziolkowski, Brandon Quittem, Jeremy Drane, Donald Raleigh, Tom Emmer (recorded message), Niklas Anzinger, and Dominick Grande.