Expert Barter is a non-monetary exchange: a person with a high-value skill contributes that skill — as a deliverable or service — in exchange for access to a program, residence, or community. It is not volunteering (which is unpaid and non-specific) and not a scholarship (which is a financial reduction). It is a transaction where both parties contribute something of real value.
Expert Barter is for people with a demonstrable, specific skill that an organisation genuinely needs: product strategy, engineering, design, community building, research, content. The skill must be relevant and the contribution must be scoped — a vague offer to 'help out' is not a barter. A defined deliverable is.
Some of the most valuable contributors to a program can't or won't pay the standard fee — not because they lack means, but because the exchange of money changes the relationship. Barter creates a peer-to-peer dynamic: both parties are bringing something of value. This often produces better work and better relationships than a commercial transaction.
A strong barter application is specific: this is what I can do, this is what I'll deliver, this is the scope. A weak application is vague: I'm a designer and would love to help. The clearer the contribution, the easier it is for the organisation to evaluate and accept.
The Hub Bengaluru offers Expert Barter for the 111-Day Residency. High-level experts in product, design, engineering, strategy, and community can contribute a specific skill or deliverable in exchange for a full or partial residency at no monetary cost. Applications are rolling and spots are limited.
Expert Barter at THB lets high-level experts contribute a specific skill or deliverable — in product, design, engineering, strategy, or community — in exchange for a full or partial 111-day residency at no monetary cost. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
Skills that THB actively needs: product strategy, engineering, UX/UI design, community design, research, content, and other domains that move THB forward. The contribution must be specific and deliverable, not general assistance.