

Blockchain IRL: Real-World Use Cases That Deliver
Discover what blockchain looks like when it’s actually used to solve real-world problems!
Blockchain IRL: Real-World Use Cases That Deliver
Join us for an eye-opening session with Professor Tim Bates, PhD, as he unpacks blockchain’s real-world impact. We'll shine a light on how blockchain is solving real problems—from secure identity in underserved regions to digital trust in global supply chains. We’ll explore use cases that matter, the tech behind the scenes, and how to tell what’s real versus what’s just vaporware. Whether you're a founder, a techie, or just blockchain-curious, you’ll leave with a clear sense of what this tech actually does—and what to avoid.
💬 Live Q&A included
📍 Location: Detroit. Please register for address.
🎟️Tickets: Tickets are intentionally priced to be very accessible. If cost is a barrier, please contact the organizer—we’re happy to help & ensure you’re able to attend! No questions asked. Students: Please send an email to events@DetroitBlockchainCollective.com for the free student ticket code.
Who Should Attend
✅ Curious minds who want to see how blockchain is applied in real life
✅ Entrepreneurs, builders, technologists, students, and professionals from any background
✅ No prior blockchain knowledge required
Why You Should Attend
🧠 Understand real use cases (not theory or buzzwords)
🔍 Learn how to spot what’s meaningful in the blockchain space
🤝 Network with fellow innovators
🎯 Get inspired to think beyond speculation and toward impact
Meet the Professor
Professor Tim Bates, PhD
Professor of Practice | Distinguished IT Fellow | Technical CTO
University of Michigan–Flint, College of Innovation and Technology
With over 40 years at the forefront of the tech world, Professor Tim Bates blends deep industry experience with academic excellence. A living archive of IT evolution and a Distinguished IT Fellow, he brings real-world insights into every lecture. As a Professor of Practice at UM-Flint’s College of Innovation and Technology, he’s known for igniting curiosity, bridging theory and application, and preparing the next generation of tech leaders to not just enter the field—but transform it.
Meet your Host
Elizabeth Hansson
Detroit Blockchain Collective Co-founder
Stand With Crypto Chapter President
Refreshment provided!
Thank you to our Sponsor!
Stand with Crypto
Stand With Crypto empowers the blockchain community by advocating for clear policies, educating stakeholders, and mobilizing support to protect innovation in the crypto space.