A source of useful information about best Web3 and crypto startups and venture capital deals. Reviews about promising startups, fundraising tips, market insights, VC feedback and valuable data for Web3 enthusiasts and professionals. https://innmind.com/
🚀 Exciting Update for the InnMind Community!
We’ve taken the next step to enhance the InnMind Founders Club experience:
💡 The Founders Club group is now private, exclusively for registered members of the InnMind platform.
Why?
- To eliminate spam and unrelated noise.
- To focus on quality connections and meaningful networking opportunities.
- To ensure a space where founders, investors, and Web3 professionals can truly collaborate and thrive.
- If you’re a registered user, the Founders Club is your gateway to connecting with like-minded innovators, potential investors, and partners in the Web3 and startup ecosystem.
👉 Not registered yet? Head over to InnMind and join today for free to access the private group and a global network of opportunities.
Let’s keep building, together. 🚀
Circle Acquires Hashnote to Enter Tokenization
State of play: Circle has acquired Hashnote, the issuer of the $1.3B USYC tokenized money market fund, as part of its push into real-world asset (RWA) tokenization.
🟢The deal was announced at the WEF in Davos, though financial details were not disclosed.
🟢The acquisition will enable USYC integration with USDC, allowing seamless convertibility between cash and yield-bearing collateral on blockchains.
🟢Circle CEO emphasized that this move aligns traditional financial structures with blockchain efficiency, catering to increasing institutional adoption.
🟢Circle also announced a partnership with Cumberland DRW, a crypto market maker, to facilitate liquidity and settlements for USDC and USYC.
🟢Circle will bring USDC to the Canton Network, a blockchain used by financial institutions for RWA transactions.
📢 🚀 The Time Has Come: XDC Pitch Session is Today!
Get ready to witness the future of Web3 innovation! Join us TODAY, January 22nd, at 16:00 CET, as we spotlight groundbreaking startups pitching live to top-tier crypto VCs.
💡 Why You Can’t Miss This:
🔹 See how successful startups pitch, structure their decks, and navigate VC questions - learn strategies to elevate your own fundraising game.
🔹 Discover high-potential projects built on the XDC Network and beyond, with exclusive opportunities to connect.
💎 Powered by XDC Network:
A third-generation blockchain redefining trade finance with up to 2000 TPS. Scalable, secure, and built for tokenizing real-world assets—it’s setting new standards for the Web3 world.
👥 Today's Startup Lineup:
▪️ Caddy Finance | RWA: Bridging TradFi hedging strategies with DeFi.
▪️ 0xFutbol | Gaming: A hub for 4B+ football fans, with games like MetaSoccer.
▪️ RedCurry | RWA: Yield-generating commercial real estate tokenization.
▪️ Token Tails | Gaming: Play-to-save NFTs linked to real shelter cats.
▪️ OlaWealth | AI Agents: AI-driven tools simplifying crypto investment.
🎯 Featured VCs:
Polygon Ventures, Brinc, MEXC Ventures, and more top firms ready to discover the next big thing in Web3.
👉 Don’t miss out on this live event: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFTf_KQHH34
Set your reminder NOW: Join the Live Stream!
🚀 Let’s innovate, pitch, and grow—together. See you there!
⁉️ DePIN will grow x1000 ⁉️
The #DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure) sector is booming, with market trends you can’t ignore:
📈 $50B Market Cap and 13M+ active devices already powering networks.
💸 $350M raised in 2024 from top-tier VCs, showing strong institutional confidence.
🌟 1000x growth potential over the next decade (Messari Report).
Whether you're a web3 founder, crypto investor or service provider - many of us are looking for ways to strengthen crypto portfolio for 2025 bull cycle 👇
💡 And here’s the opportunity for you:
XProtocol, a next-gen DePIN superchain, is conducting its $KICK IDO on AlphaMind right now. Learn more
💰 Backed by Dragonfly, Razer, CoinFund, Sequoia India and others
📱 XForge Smartphone – The first node-powered device enabling passive income.
⚡ 100% TGE Unlock – Full liquidity on Day 1.
Crypto OTC Market Surges 106% in 2024
2024 was the year that the cryptocurrency over-the-counter (OTC) market had a significant maturation, achieving an annual growth rate of 106%, according to Finery Markets' review.
🟢The year saw increased institutional activity, driven by the launch of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, pro-crypto policies linked to President-elect Donald Trump, and growing institutional acceptance of digital assets.
🟢OTC trading saw record volumes in Q4, increasing 177% YoY, fueled by Bitcoin's rally past $100,000 and Ethereum's price surge post-election.
🟢Q2 also saw strong growth at 110%, boosted by the debut of spot Bitcoin ETFs, while Q1 and Q3 grew at rates of 80% and 78%, respectively.
🟢The report highlighted the rising dominance of stablecoins as a bridge between traditional and digital finance, with Q4 crypto-to-stablecoin trading activity surging 311% YoY, surpassing Visa’s transaction volumes.
🚨 Crypto Regulations Shake-Up Coming?
Former US President Donald Trump is rumored to sign executive orders on crypto and de-banking policies as early as Day 1 if re-elected in 2025. These orders could aim to reduce crypto-related banking restrictions, potentially creating a friendlier environment for blockchain innovation in the US.
📊 What this could mean:
• Easier access to banking for crypto startups
• Potential clarity on crypto regulations
• A shift in the global crypto regulatory landscape
💬 What’s your take on this bold move? Could this lead to a crypto renaissance, or are there hidden risks? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Source: https://cryptonews.com/news/trump-expected-to-sign-executive-orders-on-crypto-de-banking-policies-on-day-one/
https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/01/13/andreessen-tech-industry-trump-administration-doge/
🚀 Which content type works best for different stages of the sales funnel? Let's break it down based on recent insights! 👇
Awareness Stage: Boosting visibility?
🔝 Top 3 formats:
🟢 Podcasts (~85%)
🟢 Infographics (~80%)
🟢 Blogs (~80%)
🚩 Bottom 3:
🔴 White Papers (~25%)
🔴 Webinars (~20%)
🔴 Case Studies (~10%)
Consideration Stage: Nurturing leads?
🔝 Top 3 formats:
🟢 Webinars (~50%)
🟢 White Papers (~40%)
🟢 Case Studies (~40%)
🚩 Bottom 3:
🔴 Infographics (~15%)
🔴 Blogs (~15%)
🔴 Podcasts (~10%)
Decision Stage: Closing the deal?
The key? Flip awareness tactics! Long videos, webinars, and white papers shine across all stages.
source: https://x.com/neilpatel/status/1856670478879867111
Decentralized AI Efforts
Projects like Exolabs, Nous Research, and Prime Intellect aim to decentralize parts of AI training and inference, while NEAR Protocol focuses on building a permissionless AI stack.
AI Wallet UX
By 2026, wallets could automate bridging, fee optimization, and scam detection, making chain differences virtually invisible to the end user.
Source: https://x.com/hosseeb/status/1874288532686295058
📝 Simplify Your Tokenomics
Tokenomics doesn’t have to be a headache. Check out our Tokenomics Structure Example—a practical guide to help you align with investors and build a solid foundation for your project.
What’s inside:
▪️ Token allocation strategies that make sense
▪️ Real-world distribution schedules
▪️ Key terms and best practices for investor alignment
▪️ A clear, no-fluff approach to presenting your tokenomics
Built for web3 founders by Roxana Nasoi (LaunchpoolXYZ & IP3 Studio). No hype—just tools to get your tokenomics right.
🔗 Tokenomics Structure Example
2024: The Big Year for AI!
AI is shaping up to be as transformative as electricity once was. In the past year, AI has become foundational across a plethora of industries.
🟢Milestones
- Nvidia became the world’s most valuable company, surpassing Apple.
- OpenAI reached a $157 billion valuation, signaling market confidence in AI’s potential.
🟢Challenges Ahead
- AI’s insatiable need for resources; computing power, energy, and data—continues to grow.
- Raising concerns about openness and accessibility.
- Accuracy and reasoning issues still need to be resolved for widespread adoption.
🟢What’s Next
- Leading labs are preparing to release cutting-edge models in 2025.
- The US government plans to drive significant investments in chips, data centers, and related infrastructure.
- The macro outlook for AI is highly optimistic, pointing to transformative growth.
🟢Web3 Outlook
AI agents have been a true phenomenon of 2024 in the web3 world.
- Capabilities and personalities of AI agents are now remarkably human-like.
- Their sophistication and adaptability have made them a standout development this year.
- Key takeaway: This is the least advanced these agents will ever be—progress will only accelerate from here.
We’re at a pivotal moment, witnessing the last days of a pre-AGI world. The future looks as intriguing and interesting as it can get!
🔥 Have a great weekend ahead, stay safe and don't forget to buckle up; the cryptoverse is on the rise
🎉 Happy New Year, Web3 Fam! 🎉
2025 is here, and it’s time to level up! Let’s celebrate the wins we crushed in 2024 and gear up for another year of building, innovating, and pushing boundaries in the world of blockchain and crypto!
To the founders hustling on the next big thing, the investors fueling groundbreaking ideas, and the developers turning visions into reality—thank YOU for shaping the decentralized future we all believe in. 🙌
And for those who hustle even during the holiday season: don’t miss out on our Knowledge Base and Perks Club—packed with tools, discounts, and insights to set your startup up for a bullish 2025! 💼🔥
This year, let’s dream bigger, connect stronger, and make Web3 unstoppable. 💥 Cheers to smashing milestones and creating the future—together! 🥂✨
🎄Merry Christmas, InnMind Family!
To all the Web3 visionaries, crypto enthusiasts, and venture capital pioneers – thank you for shaping the future of decentralization, innovation, and community.
As we celebrate this magical season, let’s reflect on the milestones we’ve achieved together in the Web3 space and look forward to a 2025 filled with groundbreaking projects, partnerships, and growth! 🚀
🎉 Whether you're building the next big thing, backing promising startups, or exploring the endless potential of blockchain, we wish you success, prosperity, and joy this holiday season.
From all of us at InnMind, we wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year! 🎅✨ Let’s make 2025 unforgettable!
The InnMind Team 💙
📩 Connect with the brightest minds in Web3: innmind.com
🎬 Crypto on the big screen!
2024 has been a transformative year for crypto and Web3, marked by market comebacks and innovative projects.
As we wrap up the year, dive into the captivating intersection of Web3 and cinema—perfect for enthusiasts, founders, and the crypto-curious alike.
🍿 From thrillers to documentaries, these movies explore the stories shaping blockchain, Bitcoin, and decentralized tech.
Look at the list and find your next favorite:
▶️ Top 10 Web3 & Crypto Movies to Celebrate the End of 2024
🔝 Key Lessons from Incentive Programs: What Works & What Doesn’t
Incentives are the backbone of decentralized ecosystems, shaping user behaviour and engagement. While some programs have thrived, others have struggled to meet their goals. A recent Arbitrum Research & Development Committee (ARDC) and Blockworks Research study explored the strategies behind these outcomes.
Here are some standout insights into effective incentive design:
🎯 Flexibility and Iteration
Successful programs emphasize flexibility and data-driven adjustments, much like Web2 marketing campaigns. Continuous monitoring and experimentation ensure relevance and impact.
🎯 Community Engagement
Building programs that involve and reward the broader community creates loyalty and long-term participation. Simple mechanisms, such as point systems, are particularly effective.
Here is an example of Silo, a risk-isolated lending market: Silo announced many external integrations over the course of the intensive program, broadening their funnel of value into the protocol. New markets currently account for 66% of the total supply on Silo, and 62% of total borrowing.
🎯 Revenue-Driven Behavior
Align incentives with revenue-generating activities for sustainable growth. Avoid models that attract "mercenary" participants, whose engagement disappears when rewards stop.
🎯 Simplicity in Design
Complicated incentives create barriers. Programs with straightforward structures and minimal friction—avoiding extra steps like purchasing vesting tokens—encourage higher participation.
In one of the researches was described Vertex case: there was the rise in new traders after the program ended. Vertex’s approach to incentives was straightforward and effective. Traders could reclaim up to 75% of their trading fees, while liquidity providers earned a fixed return of 15% APY on their deposits. This clear and transparent structure allowed participants to easily understand the rewards and what actions were needed to maximize them, creating strong engagement and predictable outcomes.
Source
Keep in mind these points, while looking for the best platforms to build loyalty and grow communities:
▶️ Top 10 Quest Platforms for Crypto Marketing
Are you paying attention to Bitcoin's short-term holder supply❓
You should be. Here's why:
During bull markets, *new money* (short-term holders) enters the market.
They buy tokens from long-term holders.
So, naturally, as the price rises, we tend to see a drop in long-term holder supply and an increase in short-term holder supply.
As this dynamic plays out, we get a view into the stability of the market structure.
After all, short-term holders are not *diamond handed.* So as their allocation rises, risk in the market rises with it.
------
🔎 What do we see today?
1️⃣ 16.6% of the supply is currently in the hands of short-term holders.
2️⃣ In the last cycle, BTC price peaked when short-term holders controlled 25% of the circulating supply.
3️⃣ Short-term holders are sitting on 25% gains on average (ST MVRV)
4️⃣ They were sitting on 45% gains in March. And the last cycle peaked when they were sitting on 80% gains.
Post is based on on interesting insight from Michael Nadeau (DeFi Report).
🔥More practical insights and tokenomics strategies can be found in the Coinstruct Channel, InnMind’s Official Tokenomics Partner.
Why it matters: With Tether and BlackRock already in the tokenization race, Circle’s move shows the rapid growth and competition in the RWA market, pushing blockchain deeper into mainstream finance.
For builders and investors: Stablecoin is still a hot space, especially after Trump’s victory — don’t think that you’re too late to build in this sector, especially if you have a unique angle or unfair business relationship advantage.
🔥 Have a great weekend ahead, stay safe and don't forget to buckle up; the cryptoverse is on the rise.
🔥 From YC Doubts to $17M in 14 Days: How Marty Cracked Fundraising
Meet Marty Kausas, the first-time founder who raised $17M from a16z in just two weeks. His product? Simple. His method? Genius.
💡 The Backstory:
• Got into YC with a product so basic, they were told, “It’ll never work.”
• Lived in the office with his co-founders for months, speaking to 420 customers before writing a single line of code.
• Raised $3.2M in 6 days after YC, then came back a year later to close $17M in 14 days.
💡Key Fundraising Lessons:
• Fundraising is a social game. Marty knew it’s not just about the pitch it’s about creating urgency and FOMO.
• The right ask matters:
❌ “Pylon is raising $17M. Here’s the deck. Want to meet?”
✅ “Have you met Marty? They’re raising now—let me know, I can likely get you in.”
→ Makes investors feel like they’re about to miss out on something hot.
• Simplicity wins:
Built their pitch deck the night before—no data room.
Focused on what mattered: team, market, traction.
🌟 New Era, New Opportunities for Web3? 🌟
Yesterday marked Donald Trump’s inauguration, and whether you’re a fan or a skeptic, one thing’s for sure—crypto and Web3 are at the forefront of policy conversations.
🔍 What’s buzzing in the crypto world:
- Reports suggest Trump’s administration might ease crypto regulations, making it easier for banks and institutions to adopt digital assets.
- Circle’s CEO predicts institutional-grade crypto integrations in portfolios could become mainstream. 🚀
- With tech leaders like Musk and Pichai attending the inauguration, it’s clear blockchain innovation is on everyone’s radar.
🌐 Why does this matter?
For founders and VCs, this signals a potential shift in sentiment and regulatory clarity, paving the way for more deals, institutional support, and growth opportunities in Web3!
- Analysts expect continued growth in 2025, with institutional demand and pro-crypto US policies fostering a favorable environment for mass adoption.
- The report speculated that Trump's proposed US Bitcoin reserve could catalyze global shifts, encouraging institutions and nations to adopt crypto strategies.
🔥Have a great weekend ahead, stay safe and don't forget to buckle up; the cryptoverse is on the rise.
📢 Get Ready for the Exclusive Pitch Session!
Join us on January 22nd at 16:00 CET for an exciting opportunity to dive into the world of Web3 innovation, powered by our partner, XDC Network—a secure and scalable third-generation blockchain with up to 2000 TPS! 🚀
💡 Why Attend?
• For Founders: Learn how top Web3 projects pitch to investors, structure their decks, and handle VC questions. Perfect insights to sharpen your own fundraising strategy.
• For Investors: Explore high-potential projects built on the XDC Network and discover opportunities for your portfolio. Want intros to these teams? We’ve got you covered!
XDC Network is revolutionizing trade finance by tokenizing real-world assets and financial instruments. Don't miss this chance to see what’s next in Web3 innovation.
📆 Mark Your Calendar and stay tuned for the full participant list!
👉 Set a Reminder Now to join: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFTf_KQHH34
💡 New in InnMind Knowledge Base: Web3 Startup Due Diligence Checklist
Ready to level up your fundraising game? Whether you're a founder preparing to meet VCs or an investor evaluating opportunities, this checklist covers all the essentials:
✅ Team & Leadership
✅ Market Fit & Traction
✅ Technology, Tokenomics, and Legal Compliance
From assembling a solid data room to mastering investor Q&A, this guide ensures you're fully prepared for the journey ahead. 📈
Check it out now and stay ahead of the game!
👉https://app.innmind.com/kb/viewDoc/web3-startup-due-diligence-checklist
Y Combinator advises you on how to sell💰
Dont hesitate to check our materials from knowledge base to get more insides on sales!
Mastering B2B Sales: 8 Proven Steps for Startup -
https://app.innmind.com/kb/viewDoc/mastering-b2b-sales:-8-proven-steps-for-startup
Company Operating Manual by Anton Antich -
https://app.innmind.com/kb/viewDoc/company-operating-manual-by-anton-antich
2025 Crypto Predictions from Haseeb Qureshi (Managing Partner, Dragonfly Capital)
🚀 Web3's 2024 Success Story: Funding Hits $9.33B and Rising!
The Web3 ecosystem made significant strides in 2024, setting the stage for an exciting 2025. Here’s a quick snapshot of what happened:
◾️ Crypto funding soared to a whopping $9.33B in 2024 (other estimates suggest $11.5B–$13.6B), showing consistent growth over 2023 but still below the 2021 peak. Experts project up to $18B by next year.
◾️ 1,535 projects were funded, marking a 26.1% increase compared to last year.
◾️ DeFi took the lead, with 375 projects securing funding, while centralized projects dropped to just 88.
◾️ AI joined the spotlight, making up 27% of total monthly deals by late 2024, though it represented 9.6% of all deals for the year. The rise of AI-agent platforms played a significant role here.
◾️ Animoca Brands dominated as a leading VC, backing 106 projects and spearheading growth in GameFi and Infrastructure sectors.
◾️ Stripe made headlines by acquiring Bridge for $1.1B—the largest crypto merger of 2024, underscoring institutional interest in Web3.
▶️ Dive deeper into Web3 funding details here.
The Web3 landscape is evolving faster than ever, with more opportunities for founders and innovators to make their mark. Now’s the time to refine your ideas, find your niche, and secure your place in the next big wave of Web3 breakthroughs! 🌟
📥 The Harsh Truth About Your First Pitch Deck
Sending your pitch deck to an investor feels monumental—but here are three brutal truths to keep in mind:
1️⃣ It’s a multitasking moment. Investors rarely carve out time for a first glance; your deck will likely be skimmed amidst emails or calls.
2️⃣ Mobile rules. If your deck doesn’t shine on a smartphone, you lose half the battle before it starts.
3️⃣ First impressions are everything. If your opening slides don’t make an impact, you risk being swiped away—permanently.
🔥 Harsh? Yes. But here’s the good news: a well-crafted pitch can cut through the noise and grab attention. It’s not just about what you’re pitching—it’s about how you pitch.
🚀 Want to level up your pitch game? Join InnMind, the ultimate platform for Web3 founders and crypto VCs to meet, collaborate, and grow. Let’s transform your deck into an investor magnet.
👉 Click here to learn more and start connecting: https://innmind.com/
💰 UAE Rumored to Hold $40B in Bitcoin 💰
State of play:
Unconfirmed reports suggest the UAE has accumulated $40B in Bitcoin, potentially making it one of the largest national cryptocurrency holders.
🟢This speculation gained traction following a tweet by Binance founder Changpeng Zhao referencing the alleged holdings.
🟢Analysts estimate the UAE holds ~411,978 BTC, ranking it among the top three global BTC holders and the leading national government in crypto accumulation.
🟢Middle Eastern countries have been speculated to increase their BTC reserves, however, these reports remain unverified.
What’s next:
While the UAE's alleged Bitcoin reserves are yet to be confirmed, the recurring reports signal a growing interest among nations in leveraging Bitcoin for financial diversification and innovation
For builders and investors:
If true, this could signal a growing interest from governments in leveraging Bitcoin for financial diversification, which might prompt both developers and investors to watch closely for the long-term impact on market dynamics.
☃️ Have a great weekend ahead, stay safe and don't forget to buckle up; the cryptoverse is on the rise ☃️
🔝 Qooverse Levels Up: Pre-Seed Round Closed with Big Backers!
We’re thrilled to announce a major milestone for one of the startups in our acceleration program!
🚀 Qooverse (Qoomon), a Web3 game studio, successfully closed its pre-seed funding round.
💡 The round was led by Paper Ventures with participation from heavyweights like Animoca Brands, Beam, and Merit Circle (funding amount undisclosed).
🎮 Qoomon was founded by industry veterans from Tencent and Goldman Sachs, creating a fast-paced W2E mobile game with an addictive game loop that is already making waves!
🌟 Dream big, build bold, and let’s make your startup the next success story! 💼 Join InnMind today and create your startup profile for free.
🚀 MicroStrategy to Join Nasdaq-100 🚀
MicroStrategy (MSTR) will officially join the Nasdaq-100 index on December 23, alongside Palantir and Axon Enterprise.
🟢This follows a nearly 500% year-to-date stock rally.
🟢The addition, part of the Nasdaq’s annual rebalancing, replaces companies like Moderna, Illumina, and Super Micro Computer.
🟢Bloomberg analyst James Seyffart predicts that ETFs, including the heavily traded QQQ ETF, will buy over $2B in MSTR shares following its inclusion.
🟢MSTR’s current market cap of $98B significantly surpasses the $43B value of its 423,650 Bitcoin holdings.
🟢The company, led by Michael Saylor, has focused on a Bitcoin-centered strategy, acquiring 197,150 Bitcoin since September 12.
What’s next: Analysts predict MSTR may aim for inclusion in the S&P 500 in 2025, although challenges remain due to the underperformance of its enterprise software business.
🔥 Have a great weekend ahead, stay safe and don't forget to buckle up; the cryptoverse is on the rise
🌐 A New Accelerator Program for Web3 Startups Worldwide
This week brings a fresh opportunity to supercharge your Web3 project with InnMind partners ⬇️
Brinc Accelerator, in collaboration with SuiHub Accelerator, Coinlist, and Ghaf Studios, introduces a powerful program to fast-track Web3 innovation.
What’s on the table:
💰 Up to $200K in funding
🤝 Direct access to the Core Sui Team
🌐 Investor & Business Development introductions
🚀 Access to the Coinlist team
🎓 Expert mentorship
Who should apply:
Consumer-facing projects at any stage, eager to integrate with Sui.
➕ Open to multichain applications
Seize this moment and take your Web3 project to the next level! 🚀
👉 Learn more and apply here: suihub.org/accelerator
💥 $3.85 Billion Floods into Crypto Investment Products Amid Market Dip!
Last week, crypto investment products saw a record-breaking $3.85 billion in inflows, bringing total assets under management to $165 billion! 🚀
Here's the breakdown:
Bitcoin dominated, pulling in $2.5 billion, supported by major U.S.-based Bitcoin ETFs like BlackRock’s IBIT and Fidelity’s FBTC.
Ethereum followed with $1.2 billion, its largest weekly inflow ever, driven by growing institutional adoption.
XRP surged with $134.3 million, fueled by optimism around a potential XRP ETF launch in the U.S., marking a 337% price jump over the past month!
What’s the big picture? 🤔
Institutions are doubling down on digital assets even during the recent dip. This is a clear signal: the real bull market is coming.
Founders, take note:
1️⃣ Institutional interest is paving the way for long-term market growth.
2️⃣ Focus on building projects with real utility to ride this wave.
3️⃣ Use bear markets (and pre-bull season) to fine-tune your product and pitch for the next bull run.
4️⃣ Register your web3 startup on InnMind for visibility & outreach of Crypto VC investors.
Stay sharp. Stay ready. The momentum is building. 💪