We wanted to test whether barter could work at scale. To do that, we built a mobile app and paired it with a semi-permanent installation at CSU Long Beach. Over 21 weeks, we facilitated thousands of trades with thousands of students.

From Funko Pops to Gucci bags, everything was on the table. More importantly, we built real connections with students and gained firsthand insight into what worked and what did not. Young women arrived with bags of old clothes and left with entirely new wardrobes. Collectors traded old collectibles and discovered new fandoms. Gamers swapped classic titles for new adventures.

To promote the project, we ran ads and banners across campus. Once word spread, the experience became viral. Students brought their friends to see the trading post, and foot traffic continued to grow throughout the semester. “This is the coolest thing on campus” became our most common and favorite piece of feedback.