How it works
Reward is a protocol layer that captures contribution as structured, verifiable records. Here is how it works.
What is Reward (Merit Layer)
Reward is a protocol that makes contribution legible. It provides a neutral foundation where work is recorded as structured, addressable records without requiring evaluation or ranking.
The Merit Layer captures what happened: who did the work, what it was, when it was submitted, and how it was verified. This creates a permanent, searchable history of contribution that systems can reference without relying on proxies.
Contribution Object
Each contribution is a structured record with specific fields that capture the essential facts about the work.
Contribution Object Anatomy
These fields create a complete, addressable record of contribution. Each contribution object is permanent and can be referenced by its unique identifier.
Proofs
Contributors provide evidence links that demonstrate their work. These proofs make contribution verifiable.
Proof URIs are links to verifiable evidence of the work. Acceptable proofs include:
Verification
Verification records completion, not value. It answers 'did this happen?' not 'was this good?'
Authorised verifiers review contributions and record outcomes. Verification is a factual check: did the work happen as described? Does the proof support the claim?
Verification is not a quality assessment or value judgment. It is a factual record: did this contribution happen, or not? All outcomes, verified, rejected, and pending, are preserved as protocol history.
Permanence
Contribution history does not change. Once recorded, it becomes part of the permanent protocol record.
Once a contribution is submitted and locked, its core fields cannot be modified. Verification outcomes are permanent. Rejected contributions remain visible in history.
This permanence ensures that contribution history is reliable and auditable. Systems built on top of Reward can reference historical records with confidence that they will not change.
The Flow
From creation to permanent history: a simple four-step process.
Create
Contributor submits work with title, summary, and proof links
Prove
Evidence links are provided and verified
Verify
Authorised verifier records outcome
History
Contribution becomes permanent protocol record
Anchoring Modes
Reward Core currently uses a local simulator. Anchoring is coming next.
Local Simulator
Reward Core operates with a local simulator for development and testing. Contribution records are created and verified locally.
Base Chain Anchoring
Chain anchoring on Base will enable permanent, on-chain verification of protocol state. Contribution records will be anchored to Base for immutability.
The protocol layer captures contribution truth immediately, regardless of anchoring mode. Records are created, verified, and preserved as structured protocol objects.
Ready to explore?
See Reward Core in action or request early access for your project.