Polkadot Face Backlash Over Highly Toxic Ecosystem For Asian Projects

As a researcher with experience in the blockchain industry, I find the ongoing controversy surrounding the treatment of Asian-led projects in the Polkadot ecosystem deeply concerning. The allegations of unfair practices and a hostile environment have sparked an important debate about diversity and equal opportunities in this rapidly evolving landscape.


As an analyst, I’ve been closely monitoring the ongoing controversy within the Polkadot blockchain ecosystem regarding its handling of Asian-led projects. Reports have surfaced suggesting unfair practices and a less than welcoming environment for these initiatives, igniting a larger discussion on inclusivity in the realm of blockchain technology. Leaders of Asian projects have expressed encountering more challenges and barriers compared to their Western counterparts, casting doubt over the ecosystem’s infrastructure and grant distribution mechanisms. This situation underscores crucial questions about diversity and equal opportunities in the rapidly developing sector of blockchain and decentralized technologies.

Specific Allegations and Experiences

As a researcher studying the Polkadot ecosystem, I’ve come across some concerning allegations leveled against it by Victor Ji, co-founder of Manta Network. Ji characterizes this environment as “highly toxic” for Asian projects. He shares his own experience of receiving initial backing from the Web3 Foundation, only to encounter a gradual disengagement once funding was secured. Ji points to several challenges that make this ecosystem particularly challenging: the intricate politics at play, the exclusivity of certain groups, and the hurdles in securing grants.

The founder of DIN, Harold Yu, validated Ji’s assertions by acknowledging the intricacy and burden of the grant application process. In unison with Ji, Yu emphasized that this process appears less complex for European and American projects, allegedly making it easier for them to acquire significant grants.

The perceived gap between expectations and reality has sparked feelings of frustration and a sense of unjust treatment among Asian project leaders regarding Polkadot. However, Ji acknowledged the advanced technology and inspiring vision of Polkadot, implying that the root causes may be rooted in cultural and operational aspects rather than technical foundations.

Financial Context and Community Response

As a researcher examining Polkadot’s financial situation, I’ve come across an intriguing development: the release of their first-half financial report for this year. Notably, this report disclosed a substantial expense of approximately 11 million DOTs, equivalent to around $87 million. Among these costs, marketing expenditures accounted for a sizable portion, totaling $37 million.

As a crypto investor in Polkadot, I’ve been closely monitoring the rate at which funds are being spent within the ecosystem. Based on current projections, it seems that these funds will only last for approximately two more years. This raises some concerns about the long-term sustainability of Polkadot’s financial strategy.

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2024-07-02 15:39