About ProofSwap
A give-first exchange engine for indie founders to trade visibility and help each other grow.
ProofSwap is a platform where indie founders, solo devs, and creators exchange social proof — things like tweet shoutouts, backlinks, testimonials, video reviews, or app feedback.
The key difference: you give first. Instead of posting a listing and waiting for someone to show up, you help another founder right away. Then you earn credits and get help in return. It's not an ad network or a marketplace — it's a community built on generosity.
Why use this?
- •You have a good product but no social proof or reach.
- •It feels awkward asking for favors without offering anything back.
- •Cold outreach for backlinks often gets ignored.
- ✓Lead with generosity — give proof first and earn credits.
- ✓Get matched with projects that need exactly what you offer.
- ✓Build reputation with verified exchanges and trust signals.
How it works
Add your project with a description, what proof you need, and what types of proof you can give to others.
Find a project that needs help. Write a tweet, add a backlink, or leave a testimonial — then submit your proof.
Each verified exchange earns your project +1 credit. Credits keep matching fair — projects with fewer credits are shown first, so everyone gets help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is social proof exchange?
Social proof exchange is a practice where indie developers and founders trade visibility assets like tweets, backlinks, testimonials, and video reviews. Instead of paying for ads or cold-emailing strangers, you help each other grow through fair, mutual exchanges.
Is ProofSwap free to use?
Yes, creating an account, submitting projects, and making exchanges is completely free. Sponsorship ads are the only paid feature.
What does "give first" mean?
Instead of posting a listing and waiting, you start by helping someone else. Find a project that needs what you can offer, give them that proof, and earn exchange credits. Credits keep the system fair — projects that have received less help are shown first in matching.
How are exchanges verified?
When you submit proof (like a URL to your tweet or backlink), the receiver reviews and verifies it. Verified exchanges earn you credits and increase your trust signals, building your reputation on the platform.
How do exchange credits work?
Every time you give proof and it gets verified, your project earns +1 credit. Credits keep matching fair — projects with fewer credits are shown first, so everyone gets a chance to receive help. The more you give, the higher your credits, so newer projects naturally rise to the top of the queue.
What types of social proof can I trade?
You can trade tweet/post shoutouts, backlinks between websites, written testimonials, video reviews, app feedback, and more. Each project specifies what it needs and what the owner can give in return.
Is exchanging social proof ethical?
Yes, as long as exchanges are genuine and transparent. ProofSwap encourages honest endorsements between founders who have actually used each other's products. All exchanges should reflect real experiences.