The Department of Homeland Security has initiated a partnership agreement with five blockchain companies. By doing this the US authorities hope to counter fraud and related crimes.
The scientific research section of the department – Science and Technology Administration (S&T in short) – has started working with the companies. Being part of the cooperative effort, these blockchain start-ups will receive a total investment of $817,712. They received this opportunity after a selection process among 80 start-ups.
Mattr Limited will be working on the digitization and of working permits issued by the Citizenship and Immigration Services. Mesur.io plans to use blockchain to track toxins, pathogens, and other hazardous substances across various supply chains. SecureKey Technologies is developing a digital version of the social security number, in which the owner will have full control over his identity and social number. Mavennet Systems will use blockchain to track the supply of natural gas between the United States and Canada. And finally, Spherity GmbH will create a system for backing up packages of documentation for the delivery of goods.
The amount of grants differs for each company. Mattr Limited will receive the most funds – $200,000. The smallest amount will be transferred to Mavennet – $86,100.
Canada has previously invested 150,000 Canadian dollars in a blockchain-based platform being developed by Mavennet for tracking steel shipments.
