Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) represent a novel way of self-organizing. This case study examines Ukraine DAO, an organization set to support Ukraine, formed just days before Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine DAO rapidly mobilized global support by leveraging blockchain technology and distributed $6 million in cryptocurrency donations within days. Approach: In the case study, we focus on the DAO's organization design and fundraising capabilities enabled by blockchain technology. Findings: The study provides numerous lessons for self-organized communities considering adopting a DAO structure. Understanding DAOs represents a vital opportunity as these organizations emerge as a powerful tool for collective resilience. Originality: Given the limited academic literature on DAOs, the case study contributes to the understanding of the potential of DAOs for collective resilience.
Ukraine DAO: A case of a self-organized community in adverse times