Avalanche Foundation Unveils infraBUIDL() to Enhance Blockchain Infrastructure

Objectives and Scope of the infraBUIDL() Program

The primary goals of the infraBUIDL() Program are to attract top-tier talent and build a robust community of developers who can contribute to the Avalanche ecosystem. The initiative aims to provide both financial support and incentives to drive innovation and development in key areas.

Key Focus Areas

The infraBUIDL() Program will concentrate on several essential components within the Avalanche ecosystem, including:

• On & Offramps: Tools for seamless entry and exit points for users.
• Validator Marketplaces: Platforms to support and optimize validator operations.
• Virtual Machines: Enhancements to support custom blockchain functionalities.
• Wallets: Development of secure and user-friendly wallet solutions.
• Oracles: Systems for integrating external data into the blockchain.
• Interoperability Tools: Solutions to enable communication between different blockchains.
• Cryptography: Advances in securing blockchain transactions and data.
• Bridges: Mechanisms for transferring assets across different blockchain networks.
• Explorers: Tools for monitoring and analyzing blockchain activity.
• RPCs (Remote Procedure Calls): Enhancements for interacting with the blockchain network.
• Data Storage: Solutions for efficient and secure data management.
• Indexers: Tools to organize and retrieve blockchain data efficiently.
• Token Engineering: Innovations related to the creation and management of digital tokens.

Funding Structure and Grant Tiers

The infraBUIDL() Program will utilize a hybrid funding model, combining direct and milestone-based grants to support developers. This approach ensures that projects receive essential support while being incentivized to achieve specific milestones.

• Direct Grants: Awarded upfront to help developers reach initial project milestones.
• Milestone-Based Funding: Additional funds provided based on the successful completion of milestones set during the direct grant phase.

The grant amounts are determined by the complexity, strategic importance, and level of innovation of each project. The general structure for grant tiers includes:

• Small-Scale Projects: Up to $100,000
• Medium-Scale Projects: $100,000 – $250,000
• Large-Scale Projects: Higher amounts available upon application and review

Application Process

To apply for the infraBUIDL() Program, projects must align with the Avalanche ecosystem’s goals and demonstrate their potential to enhance the infrastructure landscape. Key criteria include:

• Alignment with AF’s Mission: Projects should support the Foundation’s objectives and address the needs of Avalanche users and developers.
• Technical Expertise: Teams must prove their capability to deliver the project successfully within the proposed timeline and budget.
• Innovative Contributions: Projects should offer innovative solutions that address current or future needs within the Avalanche ecosystem.

Recent Developments in the Avalanche Ecosystem

The announcement of the infraBUIDL() Program coincides with several notable developments within the Avalanche ecosystem:

• Franklin Templeton’s FOBXX: On August 22, 2024, Franklin Templeton launched its Nasdaq-listed OnChain U.S. Government Money Fund (FOBXX) on the Avalanche network, allowing institutional investors to use digital wallets on Avalanche’s Benji Investments platform. This expands investment options in U.S. government securities and cash.
• Grayscale Avalanche Trust: Also announced on August 22, 2024, Grayscale Investments introduced the Grayscale Avalanche Trust. This new investment product provides exposure to Avalanche (AVAX), underscoring the platform’s growing prominence in the crypto space.
• Retail Investment Expansion in Hong Kong: Recent approval for listing Avalanche and Chainlink coins on Hashkey has broadened retail investment options in Hong Kong, increasing cryptocurrency choices for retail investors.

In summary, the infraBUIDL() Program is set to play a crucial role in enhancing the Avalanche ecosystem by supporting the development of essential infrastructure components. With its targeted focus areas and hybrid funding model, the program aims to drive significant innovation and growth within the Avalanche community.