Summary

At Breakpoint 2023, Emon Motamedi, a product team member from Solana Labs, introduced the Solana Incubator, a new initiative designed to assist entrepreneurs in building their companies within the Solana ecosystem. He underscores the unique challenges of creating a Web3 business and outlines the multiple ways in which Solana Labs' incubator is set to alleviate these pains. By offering hands-on engineering, design and go-to-market strategies, fundraising support, and a network of connections, Solana aims to shepherd a select group of technical companies towards sustainable success.

Key Points:

The Challenges of Building in Web3

Emon Motamedi opened his talk by acknowledging the inherent difficulties of establishing a business in Web3, highlighting blockchain integration, user-friendly interface design, community immersion, monetization, and operational hurdles. Addressing these challenges requires a unique approach, as they differ significantly from traditional Web2 business development constraints.

The Vision and Offerings of Solana Incubator

The Solana Incubator was born out of the realization that Solana Labs harbors a wealth of resources that could propel the whole ecosystem forward. These resources include deep technical expertise, product design and market go-to knowledge, and a vast network of connections. The incubator aims to leverage these to support companies building on Solana, providing hands-on engineering support, assistance with Web3 integrations, design and market strategizing, fundraising aid, and help with networking.

Tailoring the Program to Suit Individual Needs

Solana Incubator aims to support a small number of teams, customizing its approach to each participant's needs. The program emphasizes selecting top technical teams, focusing not only on those already within the Solana ecosystem, but also on competent Web2 developers who are new to blockchain technology. The initiative is geared toward creating sustainable, resilient businesses that thrive in any market conditions.

Facts + Figures

• Solana Incubator is an initiative to support startups in building within the Solana blockchain ecosystem.
• The program acknowledges the specific challenges of Web3 development.
• Resources available include deep technical blockchain expertise and go-to-market support.
• There is emphasis on design to create user-friendly experiences.
• A strong network of contacts within both Web2 and Web3 spaces is part of the support.
• Fundraising support includes connections to VCs and grants.
• The Solana Labs brand carries market recognition that can benefit participants.
• The number of companies Solana Incubator plans to support ranges between four to six, focusing on quality over quantity.
• The deadline for applications to the first cohort of the incubator is November 30th.

Top quotes

• "Building in Web 3 is hard... Difficulties... are much different than just building your normal Web 2 business."
• "We've had to think through what is the right way to design these things in a way that's usable, that's user-friendly."
• "The decision we asked ourselves is, what if we actually leverage these resources to support companies on Solana?"
• "We actually want to help amplify your voice as well."
• "Building sustainable businesses... We really want to focus on building... the next companies that are going to drive our ecosystem forward."
• "Supporting top technical teams, but regardless of stage."
• "We would love to work with you to build the future of Web3."

Questions Answered

What is the Solana Incubator?

The Solana Incubator is a program initiated by Solana Labs aimed at providing hands-on support, resources, and guidance to startups looking to build on the Solana blockchain. With expertise in both technical and market-related challenges specific to Web3, the incubator seeks to accelerate the development of sustainable businesses within the Solana ecosystem.

Who can apply to the Solana Incubator?

Startups or technically proficient teams that plan to develop products or services on the Solana blockchain can apply. The Solana Incubator is open to existing teams within the Solana ecosystem, Web3 companies considering a move to Solana, and Web2 founders who are technically competent but new to blockchain technology.

What are the key benefits of participating in the Solana Incubator?

Participants can expect to receive engineering assistance, design and market strategy input, fundraising support, promotional opportunities using Solana's built-in audience, and a multitude of networking connections. They aim to offer individualized support tailored to the unique needs of each participating company.

What kind of businesses is Solana Labs looking for their Incubator?

Solana Labs is interested in companies that are both ambitious and technically skilled, with the potential to contribute meaningful and sustainable innovations to the blockchain space. The emphasis is on those that can withstand market fluctuations and bring long-term value to the Solana ecosystem.

How can interested teams apply to the Solana Incubator?

Interested applicants can apply for the Solana Incubator through the official website, solanaincubator.com, by the deadline of November 30th. Teams are encouraged to submit their applications regardless of the development stage if they believe Solana Labs' resources can help them overcome obstacles and expedite their growth.