Worldcoin Launches Grants Program for Developers
Worldcoin, the crypto project co-created by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, has announced the launch of a new grants program for developers. The program aims to support the development of the network while also outlining plans for decentralization.
An Identity-Focused Crypto Project
Worldcoin is an identity-focused crypto project that utilizes orb devices to scan people’s irises in order to verify their identities online. Participants who sign up receive Worldcoin’s WLD token.
The Worldcoin Foundation’s Plans
The Worldcoin Foundation, a non-profit organization responsible for guiding the network’s development, has unveiled a grants program, a “Worldcoin Tech Tree,” and a whitepaper on decentralization. The foundation emphasized the need for Worldcoin to become as robust, widespread, and neutral as the internet itself.
Tools for Humanity, a San Francisco-based company that has raised significant funding from venture capitalists, has been instrumental in spearheading various aspects of the Worldcoin project so far.
Profit in Focus Following Altman Saga
This announcement comes shortly after Sam Altman’s temporary removal and subsequent reinstatement as CEO of OpenAI. The dispute reportedly centered around OpenAI’s non-profit status.
In an interview with The Block, Worldcoin CEO Alex Blania clarified that the timing of the foundation’s announcement was coincidental and unrelated to recent events involving Altman.
Achieving Distributed Robustness
Worldcoin aims to achieve “distributed robustness” similar to protocols like TCP/IP, WiFi, or the English language. To accomplish this goal, the project will focus on three key areas: decentralizing orb production, implementing new forms of distributed governance, and finding a balance between robustness and privacy.
First Grant Program
The Worldcoin Foundation’s first grant program has an initial pool of $5 million to support developers. Grants will be awarded in WLD tokens, with amounts ranging from 5,000 for community grants to 25,000 for projects. There are also open-ended grants available for ambitious initiatives.
The grants program includes the opportunity for developers to become a second manufacturer of orbs and establish their own factory. Scaling is also a priority area, as Worldcoin faced limitations during its token launch on OP Mainnet.
Hot Take: Worldcoin Prioritizes Decentralization and Developer Support
Worldcoin’s launch of a grants program demonstrates its commitment to decentralization and the development of its network. By providing funding and support to developers, Worldcoin aims to achieve distributed robustness and widespread adoption. The foundation’s emphasis on balancing robustness with privacy highlights the project’s commitment to user security. With a focus on expanding manufacturing capabilities and scaling, Worldcoin seeks to overcome technical limitations and ensure the smooth operation of its platform. As the project continues to evolve, it remains dedicated to building a global digital infrastructure that is as impactful as the internet itself.