Join the Detroit Blockchain Collective for an interactive evening workshop where web and blockchain developers will get hands-on with zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs)—learning step by step how to go from a simple circuit to on-chain proof verification.
Description
In this hands-on developer session, you’ll explore the full lifecycle of a ZK proof through a guided, code-focused workshop. No prior ZK experience needed—just a basic understanding of JavaScript or Solidity and curiosity about what’s possible when privacy meets programmable logic.
This workshop will be structured into five stages:
- Creating a simple circuit using Noir
- Exploring hashing and optimization techniques
- Generating proofs locally
- Verifying proofs in JavaScript
- Deploying a Solidity verifier for on-chain validation
We’ll walk through how ZK tools are evolving and what they unlock for decentralized apps and infrastructure. By the end, you’ll understand the mechanics behind ZK and how to start integrating it into your own projects.
Who Should Attend
- Web developers curious about blockchain and zero-knowledge proofs
- Blockchain builders eager to experiment with privacy-preserving applications
- Smart contract developers ready to expand their toolkit
- Anyone interested in the practical side of ZK—no math degree required
Why You Should Attend
- Understand the core mechanics of ZK systems through code
- Learn to build and verify your own ZK circuits
- Explore how ZKPs can be used for privacy, identity, and on-chain logic
- See how to integrate ZK workflows into Solidity-based applications
Pre-Work Checklist
Please bring:
- A laptop with Node.js and npm installed
- Git and GitHub access
- Recommended: install Noirup and a code editor like VS Code
- Come ready to code and collaborate!
Meet Your Workshop Instructor!
Josh Crites – a seasoned blockchain educator and developer advocate with seven years of experience helping developers master the technical foundations of blockchain. He has taught thousands through his work with ConsenSys and Celo, and is now focused on advancing ZK and privacy-preserving tech at Aztec.
Josh designs learning experiences that empower devs to explore complex technologies through practical experimentation. His workshops bridge the gap between theory and application, making cutting-edge concepts like zero-knowledge proofs tangible and usable for builders at every level. Whether you’re new to ZK or looking to deepen your toolkit, Josh creates space to explore, build, and learn by doing.
Meet your Host
Elizabeth Hansson
✨Michigan President of Stand with Crypto
✨Detroit Blockchain Collective Executive Director
Elizabeth started the Detroit Blockchain Collective with the purpose of fostering blockchain innovation in Michigan through grassroots community and education. She is a digital asset advocate, ecosystem builder, and technology strategist with a background in decentralized systems and software engineering. Since 2017, she has led teams of blockchain developers and worked to bridge emerging technologies with real-world use. She also serves as the Michigan President of Stand With Crypto, where she leads grassroots organizing, community engagement and political advocacy for digital assets for the state of Michigan.
🍕🍻 Dinner & Drinks provided!
Thank you to our Sponsor!
Stand with Crypto empowers the blockchain community by advocating for clear policies, educating stakeholders, and mobilizing support to protect innovation in the crypto space.
🗓 Wednesday, July 23, 2025
🕔 Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT
📍 Seen to Attendees · Novi, MI
✨ Founded in 2024, the Detroit Blockchain Collective was created to foster blockchain innovation in Michigan through grassroots community and education.
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