What is OriginTrail?

OriginTrail (TRAC) is an open-source, permissionless web3 infrastructure project that combines knowledge graph and blockchain technologies to create a neutral, inclusive ecosystem. It features a multi-chain Decentralized Knowledge Graph (DKG) that operates on three blockchains: Ethereum, Polygon, and Gnosis. The OriginTrail Parachain, a layer-one blockchain component designed to work with the Polkadot relay chain, extends the DKG's capabilities. The ecosystem strives to facilitate the adoption of web3 technologies, particularly in the supply chain sector. Its tokenomics design integrates both network layers and its Uniform Asset Locators (UALs) with the aim to improve asset discoverability.

How does OriginTrail work?

OriginTrail works by combining blockchain technology with knowledge graph technology to create a Decentralized Knowledge Graph (DKG). This DKG enables trusted data exchange across different systems and organizations. It connects semantic data entities into a network that can be searched, verified, and enriched by various applications and users. The DKG also leverages distributed ledger technology (DLT) to ensure data integrity, provenance, and immutability. OriginTrail's protocol is blockchain-agnostic, meaning it can work with any blockchain platform that supports smart contracts. Users who want to publish or query data on the DKG need to pay TRAC to node runners who provide storage and computation resources.

What are the potential use cases for OriginTrail?

OriginTrail has been applied to various use cases across different industries and domains. For instance, BSI and SCAN are utilizing the OriginTrail protocol to ensure the integrity of security audits for some of the largest US importers. The protocol helps verify the compliance of suppliers with labor standards and prevent fraud. The Food Safety Market is utilizing OriginTrail and Big Data with the aim to enhance the European food certification market. The protocol enables transparent and traceable data sharing among food producers, certifiers, retailers, and consumers. Furthermore, OriginTrail is working with Polkadot to create a parachain that will enable OriginTrail’s Decentralized Knowledge Graph to interoperate with other blockchains and applications on the Polkadot network.

What is the history of OriginTrail?

OriginTrail was founded by Tomaž Levak (CEO), Žiga Drev (COO), and Branimir Rakić (CTO) as a traceability platform for food products. The founders realized there was a lack of trust and interoperability in the supply chain data, which led them to develop a decentralized solution based on blockchain technology. In 2017, they launched an initial coin offering (ICO), raising $22.5 million from participants. Since then, OriginTrail has also received public funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 program for participating in several innovation experiments related to food safety, smart agriculture, and the circular economy.