Santa Monica, California, has made history by launching the first official Bitcoin office in the United States, a move inspired by El Salvador’s adoption of Bitcoin as legal tender.
The city council unanimously approved this initiative, partnering with the non profit Proof of Workforce, which will operate the office at no cost to the city.
The Bitcoin office aims to educate residents about cryptocurrency, foster partnerships to attract tourism, and explore sustainable Bitcoin mining using the city’s renewable energy.
Vice Mayor Lana Negrete, a key advocate for the project, emphasized that “Bitcoin is for everyone,” highlighting the potential for economic growth.
With an annual budget of $700 million and 4.5 million visitors spending nearly $1 billion in 2023, Santa Monica seeks to replicate El Salvador’s success in attracting Bitcoin-related investments.
The initiative also includes local job opportunities and community engagement efforts. Dom Bei, founder of Proof of Workforce, plans to celebrate the launch with a special Bitcoin visual display on the Santa Monica Pier, further marking the city’s commitment to cryptocurrency innovation.