ETHDenver Highlights: Growth and the Need for Broader Engagement in Web3

The upcoming White House Crypto Summit, hosted by US President Donald Trump, is set for March 7 and has generated significant interest within the cryptocurrency community. Despite the event's high profile, the attendee list is notably exclusive, with only 20 to 25 invitees expected to participate. Key figures from the Presidential Working Group on Digital Assets, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and SEC Chair, are confirmed to attend. Additionally, a larger reception for those not invited to the roundtable is being organized nearby, indicating the event's importance and the administration's focus on digital assets. Among the confirmed attendees are prominent industry leaders such as Michael Saylor, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong, and Kraken CEO Arjun Sethi. Their participation highlights the summit's role in fostering dialogue between the government and the cryptocurrency sector. Attendees have expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to collaborate with the Trump administration, with several sharing their excitement on social media. This summit represents a critical moment for the crypto industry as it seeks to engage with policymakers and shape the regulatory landscape in the United States. However, not all industry leaders are represented at the summit. Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has not confirmed his attendance, raising questions about the inclusivity of the event. Additionally, representatives from the Solana and Cardano ecosystems have remained silent regarding their participation, despite President Trump's recent announcement about establishing a crypto strategic reserve. As the summit approaches, the cryptocurrency community is keenly watching how these discussions will influence the future of digital assets in America.

In recent months, venture capital investments in decentralized infrastructure, particularly Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePINs), have surged, signaling a shift in how traditional industries may operate. This trend is complemented by a notable increase in funding for Web3 gaming, reflecting a growing belief in blockchain's potential to revolutionize entertainment. As the crypto market experiences volatility, with Bitcoin's price fluctuating dramatically, investors are still finding confidence in long-term opportunities within blockchain and crypto startups. Key areas of focus include DePINs, Web3 gaming, and the tokenization of Real-World Assets (RWAs), which are seen as vital connections between traditional finance and the digital economy. A prime example of this trend is Alchemy's launch of a $5 million "Everyone Onchain Fund" aimed at accelerating Web3 adoption on Ethereum. By providing developers with significant credits for gas and computing, Alchemy is lowering barriers for new projects. This initiative not only supports developers but also enhances the Ethereum ecosystem's capabilities. Similarly, Mavryk Dynamics has secured $5 million to develop a layer-1 RWA tokenization platform, aiming to bridge traditional finance and DeFi. With over $360 million in RWAs already secured, Mavryk is poised to play a crucial role in the growing demand for on-chain asset representation. The decentralized derivatives market is also gaining traction, as evidenced by Rho Labs' recent $4 million seed round. Rho Protocol facilitates a decentralized rates exchange, allowing users to engage in staking, lending, and trading perpetual futures. This innovation is critical for normalizing funding rates between centralized and decentralized finance, enhancing the overall efficiency of the crypto landscape. As these developments unfold, the integration of blockchain technology into various sectors, including gaming and finance, continues to reshape the future of digital economies, highlighting the immense potential of Web3 solutions.

Fluence has launched the DePIN Pledge, urging cryptocurrency firms and industry players to commit to utilizing decentralized physical infrastructure network solutions. This initiative is supported by prominent organizations such as IoTeX, Polygon, Helium, and Consensys. Fluence aims to encourage projects to publicly embrace decentralized infrastructure, fostering more transparent and resilient ecosystems. As the web3 and cryptocurrency landscape evolves, the importance of maintaining decentralization has become increasingly critical, especially in light of the growing reliance on centralized infrastructure by many projects. The DePIN Pledge allows firms that commit to it to be listed in a public directory on the DePIN Pledge website, enabling users and traders to identify and support companies that prioritize decentralization. Additionally, participating projects will receive a manifesto and a DePIN Pledge NFT, which is auditable on the Ethereum blockchain. This NFT serves as a symbol of their commitment to decentralization and can be showcased across various platforms and social media channels. Major crypto firms, including Infura, Outlier Ventures, and Blockscout, have also backed this initiative, highlighting a collective effort towards a decentralized future. Tom Trowbridge, Co-Founder & CEO of Fluence, expressed enthusiasm for the pledge, noting that it marks the beginning of DePIN adoption. He anticipates a diverse range of DePIN products and services emerging in the coming years. Clemens Wan, global solutions architect at Consensys, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for decentralized infrastructure that aligns with the core values of web3. The DePIN Pledge represents a significant step towards ensuring that the foundational services of the industry reflect the principles of decentralization, ultimately realizing the full promise of web3.

https://en.cryptonomist.ch/2025/02/26/depin-crypto-to-watch/

Roam has launched a DePIN Open Wireless Network that utilizes OpenRoaming and blockchain technologies to provide secure and fast internet access globally. With a robust infrastructure of over 4.5 million nodes in more than 190 countries and nearly 2 million registered users, Roam is set to transform connectivity. The company is now inviting crypto enthusiasts to participate in its newly introduced Roam Community Bounty Program, which offers a chance to earn $ROAM tokens by engaging with the community and supporting Roam's growth. The Roam Community Bounty Program features a total fund of 100,000 $ROAM tokens, with various categories for participation including content creation, social media engagement, and community participation. The program runs from February 22, 2025, to March 21, 2025, and encourages participants to submit original content across multiple platforms. Rewards are allocated weekly, with specific amounts designated for different activities, such as writing articles, creating videos, and engaging on social media. Participants can earn rewards based on the quality and originality of their contributions. This initiative not only incentivizes community involvement but also aims to foster a vibrant ecosystem around Roam's decentralized network. Participants are encouraged to join the program and contribute in ways that resonate with their skills, whether through writing, video production, or active engagement in Roam's social channels. With a structured reward system and a focus on community, the Roam Community Bounty Program is an excellent opportunity for individuals to be part of a revolutionary approach to connectivity while earning $ROAM tokens for their efforts.

As EthDenver 2025 approaches, DIMO is gearing up for an exciting presence at one of Ethereum's most significant events. Attendees can look forward to a unique experience with DIMO's onchain food truck, which will be operational for the first time. Collaborating with Base and Blackbird, DIMO allows users to track the food truck's location via the DIMO mobile app. On February 25 and 26, those who download the app and create an account will receive complimentary nacho fries, and connecting their car to the network will earn them free tacos. Additionally, guests checking in with Blackbird will receive bonus $FLY tokens, enhancing the overall experience. The food truck will be featured at two notable side events during EthDenver. The first is the Day of DePIN, hosted by DePHY and DeCharge, on February 25, where attendees can enjoy blockchain-themed snacks while gaining insights from industry leaders. The following night, DIMO will join Nolcha Shows for their Opening Party, offering delicious food to fuel the festivities. A special giveaway will include limited-edition Burner Cards hidden under meals, providing an exciting incentive for food truck visitors. In addition to the food truck, the DIMO team will participate in various speaking engagements throughout the event. Keynote speeches and demos will be presented by team members, including Alex Rawitz and Yevgeny Khessin. DIMO is also sponsoring the DePIN After Dark event, featuring networking opportunities, keynotes, and a raffle for DePIN merchandise. With plans for a special giveaway at PizzaDAO’s Pizza Castle event, including a chance to win a $500 Turo gift card, DIMO is set to make a memorable impact at EthDenver 2025, fostering connections and onboarding new users in the vibrant blockchain community of Denver.