The Digital Shift

At Invest In Access, one of our programmatic focuses is exploring how Artificial Intelligence can be utilized to reduce overwhelm, support autonomy, and reflect the needs of communities. To do so, we're going back to internet basics by working within a protocol layer. Learn more below.

Reflection

This article explores when these systems first gained traction within the private sector, why public access matters now, and what our organization is doing to help reclaim AI for mental autonomy.

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Connection

Explore how you can utilize AI to create an algorithm that fosters wellbeing; "sort by all content that shows quotes from..." or sort by information that is relevant to your own business goals.

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A Space to Build

Learn how to create your own AI presence rooted in what adds value to you professionally and personally.
Our guide is evolving and open-source.

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Watch how digital interaction can happen through a protocol

What is a protocol?

A protocol is a shared system for connection—like email—that allows different services to communicate using the same language (protocol). Household-recognized platforms like Gmail, Yahoo, and Outlook are different services, but they all use the same language (the SMTP protocol) to send and receive mail. Email protocol was largely created by Jon Postel, whose work helped define the early internet.

What is the difference between a protocol and a platform?

Platforms are owned by private companies. Over the past decade, global conglomerates such as Amazon, ByteDance (TikTok), Google, Meta, Tesla, and X (formerly Twitter) have been utilizing AI to keep your attention, organize your experience, and optimize for engagement—at your healthiest and your lowest points. This systemic approach often does not prioritize wellbeing, ease of use, or mental autonomy.

Protocols are open systems. They foster creativity, experimentation, and the ability to move freely between tools of your choice. You can build something personal or professional on a protocol. We're utilizing the nostr protocol as an example.