5 Emerging Trends in Crypto Startups

As an analyst with a background in blockchain technology and startup analysis, I find the trends identified in AllianceDAO’s accelerator program during the first half of 2024 to be intriguing. These insights offer valuable information on the current state and future direction of the crypto startup world.


In the past six months of 2024, AllianceDAO’s accelerator program, with its annual inflow of around 3,000 applications, has revealed intriguing insights into the crypto startup landscape. This substantial pool of data offers unique perspectives on the industry’s tendencies, focusing on preferred blockchains, product orientations, geographical distribution, and founder characteristics. Here are the five primary trends shaping the crypto startups sphere:

1. Dominant Chains and Layer 1 Ecosystems

Ethereum remains the leading platform for emerging crypto projects. Solana shows signs of a strong recovery following the setbacks it experienced towards the end of 2022 after facing significant challenges related to the FTX incident.

5 Emerging Trends in Crypto Startups

Alternatively, Bitcoin is experiencing a surge in interest once again due to the growing buzz around Bitcoin ordinals, runes, and Layer 2 technologies.

2. The Rise of Ethereum Layer 2s

In the past few years, optimistic rollups have attracted significant interest within the Ethereum Layer 2 community. Amongst all the crypto startups building on Ethereum Layer 2s during the first half of 2024, over a quarter chose to work with Base.

3. Shifting Product Focus: From NFTs to Infrastructure, DeFi, and AI

The NFT market scene is evolving, marked by a decline in new NFT initiatives and a surge of interest in areas like infrastructure development, Decentralized Finance (DeFi), cryptocurrency payment systems, and artificial intelligence projects within the crypto space.

5 Emerging Trends in Crypto Startups

“This development signifies the maturing of the industry as practical applications of DeFi and digital payments gain traction, despite a relatively low level of widespread public interest.”

4. Crypto Startups Geographic Distribution

As a researcher examining global startup trends, I’ve noticed an intriguing development: The number of startups emerging from Asia and Africa is soaring to unprecedented heights, marking a significant shift in the entrepreneurial landscape. In contrast, the number of new businesses arising in North America, specifically the US and Canada, has hit a record low.

The regulatory instability in the United States and the surging adoption of cryptocurrencies in developing countries are likely driving this shift. North America, Europe, and Asia remain the primary hubs for crypto startups, with each region accounting for approximately 25-33% of all new initiatives.

5. Founder Backgrounds and Team Dynamics

In the year 2021, the influence of tech industry veterans among startup founders peaked, accounting for around 30% of the total founders. This trend continues to be significant, given its past prevalence. Similarly, the proportion of entrepreneurs hailing from renowned universities attained its maximum in 2021, representing approximately 10% of all founders. Among them, about 10% possess prior experience in launching businesses, ensuring a healthy blend of expertise and innovative ideas.

As a researcher studying team composition in the startup scene, I’ve observed that most successful startups consist of between two and five individuals. This size is widely regarded as ideal before a company has established itself in the market with its product. Interestingly enough, around 75% of these startups operate completely remotely, demonstrating the sector’s remarkable flexibility and adaptability.

Conclusion

In the first half of 2024, crypto startups showcased intriguing trends. Ethereum’s expanding clout, Solana’s resurgence, the emergence of Layer 2 solutions, and the rising importance of infrastructure, DeFi, and AI highlight a vibrant ecosystem that is continuously evolving and progressing. The crypto startup landscape looks optimistic as it expands in emerging markets and attracts both experienced and fresh founders.

Read More

2024-07-11 12:28