The Spark
In January 2025, I walked out of my day job at a big tech company with an idea I couldn’t ignore: make it effortless — and safe — to help someone when you don’t have any spare change. Seeing that awkward “sorry” moment day after day, from people who I think — like me — genuinely want to help, convinced me there had to be a better way. After a lot of conversations with friends, a tonne of coding, testing, and partner outreach, I think I’ve got the solution: askcard.co.uk
How ASK Card Works
- Spot an ASK Card on a lanyard, key‑ring or jacket.
- Scan the QR code; Apple Pay / Google Pay opens instantly.
- Support—your tap converts to a digital voucher locked to food, shelter, medicine or toiletries at trusted local shops. No cash, no misuse.
Who’s Building It
I’m Michael Corcoran, a technical entrepreneur turned social-impact founder. I’m inspired by friends who’ve experienced homelessness, and I’m angry at the apathy and red tape that’s stopped this problem from being solved already.
Vision
A world where “I’ve got you covered” is just one tap away — giving everyone experiencing homelessness or extreme poverty a secure, dignified way to receive help.
Where Your Pledge Goes
- Launch hardware and onboarding for two locations £3,000
- Servers, software, security and payment processing (12 mo.) £4,000
- Legal costs £2,500
- Development costs for project completion £5,000
A public ledger of every pound will be posted monthly.
Why Back Us Now
June 2025 is locked for launch. Your support funds the final mile — hardware, software, onboarding, security, and getting the first batch of cards onto the streets.
Backers aren’t just funding a product — they’re joining the founding story. From small gestures to bold statements, every reward level puts your name, your values, or your vision at the heart of this movement.