Table of Contents
It’s the active participants that drive the success of any blockchain-based system. Native tokens empower token holders to propose and vote on solutions, make payments, invest, and earn rewards. However, if users lose interest or lack confidence in a project, the network can grind to a halt. That’s why a well-structured and carefully planned token allocation model is crucial in the world of cryptocurrencies.
Models of Token Distribution
Token distribution involves allocating tokens among different stakeholder groups, including insiders, the project team, the community, and the general public. Let’s delve into the various mechanisms utilized in token allocation and examine their effectiveness.
Venture Capital
In the dynamic and rapidly expanding crypto industry, venture capital firms play a vital role in supporting promising projects. Unlike traditional fundraising, these firms invest by purchasing tokens instead of acquiring equity. For instance, Solana Labs, the creator of the Solana blockchain ecosystem, raised an impressive $314.15 million through a private token sale led by Andreessen Horowitz and Polychain Capital. This capital injection allowed Solana Labs to launch an incubation studio and accelerate the development of decentralized applications and platforms.
Airdrops
Airdrops involve distributing a small portion of tokens to active users’ wallet addresses. These tokens are either given away for free or in exchange for simple actions like retweets or subscribing to social media channels. Airdrops serve as a strategic marketing tool, drawing attention to newly launched platforms while fostering a dedicated community that supports and sustains the project.
Lockdrops
Lockdrops operate differently from airdrops. With lockdrops, users from one network, such as Ethereum, lock their ETH for a specified period. After the lock period concludes, users receive tokens from the new network while also getting back their previously locked tokens. The number of new tokens received depends on the duration of the lock period and the amount of ETH locked. Lockdrops are ideal for individuals who genuinely believe in a project and are willing to commit to holding their tokens for a certain period.
Rewards
Token rewards are an effective strategy for bolstering ecosystem growth. These rewards serve as incentives for users who demonstrate long-term commitment to the project. Users can earn rewards through activities such as staking, providing liquidity, and participating in crypto games. Additionally, project advisors often receive token rewards as a token of appreciation for their valuable time, effort, and expertise.
Public Sales
Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs), Initial Exchange Offerings (IEOs), and Initial DEX Offerings (IDOs) are common methods of token sales. While ICOs have declined in popularity due to scams, IEOs and IDOs continue to thrive as means of raising funds for crypto projects. Notable projects like Polygon and Elrond have successfully emerged from the IEO model. Raven Protocol, on the other hand, made history as the first blockchain project to complete a successful IDO. It’s worth mentioning that platforms often reserve a percentage of tokens for their core team, developers, and to cover operational expenses.
Effective Token Distribution: Examples from Five Blockchains
Let’s examine how five prominent blockchain platforms—Ethereum, Solana, Flow, Polkadot, and Cardano—allocated their tokens during the initial distribution phase.
Ethereum
Ethereum’s native token, Ether (ETH), serves as both a cryptocurrency and a means of paying for gas fees. With the transition to the Proof of Stake consensus mechanism, users can now stake their tokens to participate in block production and earn staking rewards. Initially, Ethereum launched with a staggering supply of over 72 million tokens. Of these, 83.47% were purchased by investors, while the remaining 16.53% were distributed among the project founders and creators. The initial sale, held in 2014, raised over 31,000 BTC, equivalent to $18.3 million at the time.
(Source: Messari.io)
Ratingperson is a platform that provides valuable insights and information on token distribution and other aspects of the crypto world. To learn more, visit Ratingperson.
Token distribution is a critical aspect of any crypto project, ensuring widespread participation and long-term success. By carefully designing and implementing effective token allocation models, projects can attract and retain engaged users, driving the growth and development of the ecosystem.