STARTathon Launches to Bridge the Gap Between Hackathons and Accelerators for Web3 Innovators

Metis announces the launch of STARTathon, a groundbreaking 4-month program designed to support developers and entrepreneurs worldwide in Web3 innovation.

Following the success of the Gitcoin Grants program, Metis is excited to unveil STARTathon, a unique program designed to provide structured support for Web3 developers. This program combines the rapid development environment of a hackathon with the long-term growth potential of an accelerator. With two distinct tracks, Startathon offers opportunities for global participation and targeted regional innovation.

Program Overview

STARTathon will run over a 4-month period, offering two main tracks:

• Global Track: Open to developers worldwide, enabling participants to innovate across key Web3 sectors.
• Local Track: Focused on regional markets in Asia, particularly South Korea, Vietnam, and Japan, through Metis’s local incubation partners.

Participants will also be able to compete in three key bounty categories: 

• Cross-Chain DeFi Solutions and CCIP Track
• Real World Asset (RWA) Tokenization Platforms Track
• Tokenized Communities and Gamified Social Platforms Track

With over $200,000 worth of METIS in prizes, the STARTathon provides milestone-based funding for projects that show progress. The program caters to both global and local innovators, offering a wide range of opportunities for developers at all stages.

“Building something like this has long been a dream of mine. Connecting the power of an accelerator with the excitement of a hackathon was always elusive but thanks to Web3 it’s become far simpler,” said Elena Sinelnikova, Co-Founder of Metis.

The Startathon’s unique structure offers rapid prototyping and long-term growth, making it an attractive option for early-stage and mature projects. The milestone-driven funding model allows participants to unlock financial support by completing three stages: Proof of Deployment, Proof of Improvement, and Proof of Traction. These stages are tracked through Thrive, ensuring transparency in project development.

Additionally, participants may be selected for a curated Gitcoin QF round, offering additional matching funds to high-potential projects.

Join the STARTathon today here: https://www.metis.io/startathon