I would think it would have to be an update to the client (App/Webpage) and server (database) code so yes, update to the codebase.
For the client side, the app/webpage would need to be update to display awards in the UI. And the server would need to store the awards, content award is associated with, user info etc.
I was thinking of an idea similar to Reddit awards to help fund instances.
Sounds like an interesting app you’re building. I’m working on an ideas that sounds like it would compliment what you’re working on. Shoot me a link or info if/when available.