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The Best DeFi Launchpads
The Best DeFi Launchpads
23 May, 2024
The Best DeFi Launchpads 2

The most democratic way to launch a project is through Initial DEX Offerings (IDOs) on one of the best crypto launchpads. To successfully launch via a DEX, users need a reliable DeFi crypto launchpad with a proven track record and reputation. Then, the IDO launchpad can help promising projects to find the right audience and secure funding.

As the crypto space continues to evolve, crypto launchpads are becoming increasingly important in determining the success of new promising projects. Platforms like BullStarter, GamesPad, Binance Launchpad, and others offer investors diverse opportunities and the chance to contribute to emerging blockchain ecosystems. A well-informed and cautious approach is essential for navigating the dynamic world of IDO investments. To assist you, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the industry's top IDO launchpads.

BullStarter IDO Crypto Launchpad Platform

One of the top crypto launchpads

BullStarter connects startups with potential investors and provides tools to help businesses manage liquidity after launching their IDOs.

It is a decentralized, multi-chain blockchain gaming initial DEX offering launchpad powered by BullPerks and built on the Binance Smart Chain (BSC).

BullStarter employs an adaptive tier system to offer early-stage deals to its community and incentivize its token holders.

Unlike typical decentralized crypto launchpads, BullStarter ensures that only early investors benefit from the best tiers and deals when the token price increases.

To participate in an IGO on BullStarter, one of the largest crypto launchpads, investors need to stake between 500 and 200,000 BLP tokens.

At the highest tier, Titanium Bull, investors receive a 50% allocation from the first three deals and 25% from the fourth deal.

GamesPad GameFi Decentralized Launchpad for Crypto Projects

Top crypto launchpad for gaming projects in the crypto industry

GamesPad is one of the largest gaming and crypto launchpads, focusing on top emerging crypto projects related to gaming, NFTs, and the metaverse.

This multi-chain crypto launchpad simplifies investment and offers more opportunities for buyers.

GamesPad partners with leading crypto projects across various blockchains, including Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, and Polychain.

With community at its core, GamesPad's decentralized IDO platform ensures that both investors and entrepreneurs have access to the necessary resources to achieve their goals when investing in new crypto launchpad projects.

Security is fundamental to a positive community experience. Therefore, a team of specialized professionals reviews each project before it is launched on GamesPad, ensuring that only the most promising and high-return blockchain projects are available.

GamesPad offers a unique opportunity to enter a new investment space and secure your place in the next promising initial game offering (IGO).

DAO Maker

A crypto launchpad that boosts the community involvement

Amidst the abundance of Ethereum-centric launchpads, DAO Maker's IDO platform emerges as one of the best IDO launchpads for innovative blockchain projects launching their token sales. Its distinction owes not only to its enduring presence but also to its esteemed reputation for delivering quality to both new projects and token holders. Early on, the platform spearheaded the democratization of new project access through IDO-like offerings, carving a niche for itself in the market.

DAO Maker has been instrumental in pioneering various token sale formats, notably the dynamic coin offering (DYCO) and the more recent strong holder offering (SHO), revolutionizing investor access to novel projects and prospects. Since its inception in 2020, DAO Maker has orchestrated numerous crypto token sales, amassing an impressive portfolio of products over time.

DAO Maker's Operational Mechanism Accessing SHOs on DAO Maker entails holding a minimum of 500 DAO tokens in one's wallet and registering on the platform, known as the DAO Pad. Users are categorized into tranches based on the number of DAO or DAO LP tokens held in their registered wallets, unlocking DAO power accordingly. There are five tranches in total, with each tranche encompassing a distinct range of DAO power. Users occupying higher tranches stand a better chance of securing a slot in an SHO, with tranche 5 participants poised to win nearly every SHO.

DAO Maker has orchestrated SHOs for a diverse array of notable projects, including some of the top-performing tokens, such as My Neighbor Alice, Lossless Protocol, and Orion Money.

Binance Launchpad

One of the leaders in the blockchain ecosystem

According to CoinMarketCap, Binance is the world's largest and most prominent cryptocurrency exchange, with millions of dollars in daily trading volume and over 60 million monthly visits. This dominant position has made Binance a central hub for all things crypto, including hosting its own token launch platform - Binance Launchpad.

Given its prestige, Binance takes a deserved place among the best crypto launchpads for high-profile crypto developers to release new blockchain projects. The selection criteria are stringent, ensuring that only the most exceptional early-stage crypto projects are accepted. Once a project is approved, Binance Launchpad's primary goal is to support the project's initial token sale. Due to the platform's massive traffic, simply being hosted on Binance provides a significant marketing advantage for early-stage projects.

Founded in 2019, the Binance Launchpad has supported the development of several successful high-quality crypto projects, including:

  • STEPN (GMT): A fitness-based crypto app that rewards users for staying active and healthy. The initial token offering consisted of 420 million GMT, all of which were sold to 130,672 Binance users who committed Binance Coins (BNB). At the start of the launchpad token sale, the price of one GMT token was approximately $0.11, peaking a few weeks later at over $5.
  • BitTorrent Token (BTT): One of the most successful projects launched on Binance, the popular torrent tracking platform BitTorrent raised $7.2 million in just 15 minutes.

Other successful projects raise funds on Binance through a lottery system, where users can “buy tickets” for a chance to receive new tokens. Axie Infinity, Harmony, Polygon, and The Sandbox have all completed successful raises via the Binance Launchpad.

Binance also offers a Launchpool for IDOs. In this process, investors can lock up their BNB or Binance USD (BUSD) into a pool and receive a proportional amount of a new token as a “farming reward.” The APYs vary from less than 2% to over 20%. Several IDO launches have attracted over 200,000 participants using the Binance Launchpool. Top projects include the Manchester City Fan Token and Anchor Protocol.

Bybit Launchpad

For investors to gain early access to promising projects

Bybit is a well-known exchange celebrated for its extensive range of derivatives and margin trading opportunities. It is one of the few platforms that allows trading without requiring customers to undergo a verification process, though this limits its compatibility with fiat currencies. Bybit offers a variety of features, including one of the top crypto launchpads for initial token sales.

The crypto launchpad supports two types of token sales: Initial DEX Offerings (IDOs) and Initial Exchange Offerings (IEOs).

IEOs function similarly to Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs), where new blockchain projects raise funds by selling tokens on an exchange like Bybit. Investors can participate by locking up tokens such as Bybit’s native cryptocurrency (BIT) or certain stablecoins like USDT.

The Bybit Launchpad process involves four steps:

  1. Snapshot Period: Investors qualify for IEOs and IDOs by committing BIT or USDT during a specific timeframe.
  2. Commit: Investors can subscribe to token allocation or commit tokens to participate in a lottery.
  3. Distribution: Bybit’s Launchpad algorithmically distributes tokens, either by lottery results or directly to subscribers.
  4. Allocation Results: Lottery results are released, and winning investors receive the new tokens in their wallets.

Crypto.com Launchpad

The top crypto launchpad for promising projects

Crypto.com is one of the biggest crypto exchanges that gained prominence in the early 2020s, notably by securing brand ambassadors like Matt Damon. This is a top secure platform that prides itself on being at the forefront of blockchain technology and continually introduces new features.

One such feature is the Crypto.com Launchpad, where retail investors can pick to participate in an initial DEX offering or an initial exchange offering.

Crypto.com actively supports early-stage projects, regularly hosting 5-10 coin launches for blockchain projects at any given time. This provides retail investors with numerous opportunities to discover promising ventures, though it also means there can be less participation and fewer high-quality new projects.

However, many offerings on the Crypto.com Launchpad are poorly presented and lack clarity regarding the project's purpose. The participation process usually involves locking up Crypto.com’s native crypto tokens, Cronos (CRO). This initial exchange offering platform is not always transparent about participation figures or the amount of money raised per IEO/IDO. Despite these issues, among the hundreds of new crypto projects launched, there have undoubtedly been some successes.

Gate.io Launchpad

A token launch platform for the best projects

Gate.io is one of the major crypto exchanges, similar to KuCoin, known for its extensive support of a wide range of altcoins and trading pairs. The platform offers various features, including a mobile app, an open-source API, derivatives trading, and staking.

Gate.io is also a leading crypto incubator, a blockchain innovation hub for developers conducting an IDO or IEO. The token sale platform, known as “Startup,” has launched an impressive 749 crypto projects in just a few years, raising nearly $95 million. While the quality of new projects can vary, many successful blockchain developers have used Gate.io Startup to fundraise. Notable examples include:

  • Zipmex Token (ZMT)
  • Olive Cash (OLIVE)
  • Celer Network (CELR)

The exact mode of participation varies by project. Some project teams offer free airdrops where users simply sign up to receive the new project tokens. Others, typically those with the greater financial backing and technical support, require investors to lock up a token such as GT (Gate.io’s native digital currency) or USDT.

Some project creators combine these methods, allowing users to spin a wheel for a chance to receive tokens. If potential investors don't succeed, they can commit a "share" to the project to receive a token allocation. If the full funding goal is not reached by the time the incubation period expires, the token sale will fail.

KuCoin Spotlight Launchpad

KuCoin, with its extensive support for thousands of trading pairs, serves as a focal point for crypto enthusiasts seeking to explore lesser-known coins. The platform's backing of rare tokens aligns seamlessly with its role as a crypto launchpad, a realm it delved into in 2022 with the introduction of KuCoin Spotlight.

The process for gaining entry into KuCoin's token launch platform is rigorous, featuring a dedicated team of over 20 experts tasked with vetting applicants. Each applicant undergoes scrutiny from three independent teams and four levels of review.

As a result, less than 10% of applicants secure a spot on KuCoin Spotlight. Consequently, the platform's crypto launchpad garners respect within the crypto space for its exclusive endorsement of high-caliber projects.

Among the notable successes are Victoria VR (VR), a multiplayer metaverse akin to The Sandbox, which saw its token value surge by 212 times following its Spotlight debut. Similarly, ClearDAO (CLH), dedicated to democratizing derivatives trading in crypto markets, experienced a remarkable 73-fold increase in token value upon listing on KuCoin Spotlight.

For customers eager to engage in crypto projects, participation involves committing KuCoin's native cryptocurrency, KCS, to a pool. However, eligibility requires verification on the KuCoin crypto platform, with certain countries excluded from participation.

Kraken Launchpad

Kraken stands out as one of the prominent digital currency exchanges in the crypto world. Its platform facilitates the buying, selling, and trading of various cryptocurrencies, including popular ones like BTC and ETH. Over time, the development team has dedicated substantial effort to enhancing the exchange, culminating in the introduction of Krakenpad, a dedicated crypto launchpad platform that enables investors to get early access to promising projects and ensures fair token distribution and the early stages of the project's life.

Krakenpad is the best crypto launchpad platform that has helped high-caliber projects across major blockchain networks such as Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, Avalanche, Solana, and others. Unlike mere token sale platforms, Krakenpad offers a comprehensive suite of services for both developers and investors. These include the Kraken Swap DeFi exchange, a launchpad for discovering new crypto startups, and Kraken Prediction, a decentralized platform for prediction markets.

Although KrakenPad is still refining its platform, it aims to address any potential issues. While there have been few project launches so far, Kraken's social media channels announce upcoming opportunities several weeks before the subscription opens. Participation is straightforward, with investors able to sign up by connecting an eligible wallet.

Despite the limited data available, Kraken's reputation for innovation, security, and excellence positions its launchpad as a promising contender to emerge as one of the industry's leading incubators.

Solster Finance Launchpad

Solster Finance is one of the new crypto launchpads. It introduces the inaugural DeFi offering within its ecosystem, providing an IDO launchpad and a decentralized incubator tailored for Solana projects. This platform ensures participants secure guaranteed token allocations, features an Auto token claim program, and implements decentralized KYC measures. Solster Finance aims to enrich investors' decentralized financial (DeFi) portfolios by offering a diverse range of services.

The Solster ecosystem encompasses various functionalities, including an IDO Launchpad for Solana Projects, a decentralized exchange (DEX) for crypto trading, token swapping, staking, vesting, and a lottery platform.

What Are Crypto Launchpads?

A crypto launchpad serves as an incubator for the most promising upcoming projects in the blockchain ecosystem. Crypto launchpads facilitate the transition of budding concepts into fully-fledged projects. Often, crypto launchpads are already esteemed entities within the crypto community, aiding in the dissemination of new project information in the crypto world. They provide essential resources to propel projects forward, hence the name "launchpad."

Resources and Services That May Be Provided by Crypto Launchpads

Along with offering the services of an IDO platform to get the funds raised, the best crypto launchpads offer a range of services to assist a new project in many other fields.

So, among the most common services that crypto launchpads can provide, the following deserve attention.

  • Guidance from seasoned advisors to support project developers during incubation.
  • A platform for distributing news and blogs.
  • Digital marketing and advertising initiatives to raise awareness within communities about forthcoming project launches.
  • Assorted tools and resources such as web design and copywriting assistance.
  • A platform for projects to raise funds, typically through the sale of a native token.

What are Crypto Launchpads Used for?

Crypto launchpads are closely associated with token sales like ICOs and IDOs. They primarily serve two key purposes.

Firstly, from a self-interested perspective, crypto launchpads resemble "venture capitalists" investing in startups in search of the next Uber or Airbnb.

Essentially, they are utilized to discover and acquire new cryptocurrencies before they are listed elsewhere thus providing investors with early access to promising projects.

Secondly, the best crypto launchpad plays a vital role in fostering the health and continual expansion of the blockchain and crypto ecosystem. Without them, innovative and revolutionary projects may struggle due to a lack of funding and support.

How Does a Crypto Launchpad Work?

Each crypto launchpad boasts a distinct process for introducing new products to the blockchain landscape.

Most major IDO platforms necessitate project developers to undergo a rigorous application process, with only the most compelling and innovative projects being accepted. Criteria may encompass potential real-world impact, the size of the development team, past experience in the sector, expertise in crypto-related fields, and marketability.

Subsequently, the launchpad furnishes the project with all the necessary resources. Often, the primary service they offer is a platform to conduct a token sale and generate revenue. Additionally, launchpads typically invest in the hosted blockchain project themselves, thereby establishing a vested interest in its success.

How to Choose the Best Crypto Launchpad

Several factors should be considered when selecting the best crypto launchpad, depending on whether you're an investor or a project developer:

Platform reputation: Top-listed launchpad platforms have established reputations for security and legitimacy in the crypto market. However, not all platforms, particularly those associated with decentralized exchanges, share this level of trustworthiness. Conduct independent research on the crypto launchpad before committing funds.

Past projects: While past performance doesn't guarantee future success, it can provide valuable insights. A crypto launchpad with a history of incubating high-quality projects are more likely to continue this trend. Conversely, those with minimal selection criteria may occasionally unearth valuable opportunities but are more prone to promoting less valuable investment prospects.

Information transparency: Not all launchpads provide transparent token sale information, such as Total Value Locked (TVL), previous project count, participant count, etc. It's advisable for investors and developers alike to favor platforms that offer comprehensive information.

Supported blockchains: Certain crypto launchpad platforms only support projects from specific chains, while others offer interoperability. The long-term viability of a new project may hinge on the success of the chain it's built upon. Investors should align their beliefs about a chain's longevity with their investment decisions.

Token types: Launchpads may facilitate ICOs, IDOs, IECs, or a combination thereof, depending on their goals and philosophies. Evaluate whether the launchpad aligns with your preferred token types.

Supported cryptocurrencies: Token sale platforms typically allow users to lock up digital assets to participate in token sales. While most require a native utility token, others may accept stablecoins. Consider which cryptocurrencies are supported and their implications for participation.

Trading fees: While most token sales and launchpads don't charge participation fees directly, transaction fees may apply. Compare launchpad platforms to ensure participation remains cost-effective after factoring in additional fees.

How Can Investors Choose the Right IDO Project?

The crypto industry thrives on innovation but is also susceptible to scams. To differentiate between promising blockchain projects and fraudulent schemes, consider the following:

Project developers: Investing in projects from developers with strong community followings mitigates risks. Look for developers with successful track records or ample industry experience.

DYOR (Do Your Own Research): Basic information provided by launchpads is often insufficient for informed decision-making. Visit the project's website, and social media, and read its whitepaper, if available.

Competitors: Assess whether a project offers unique features or functions within its blockchain sub-sector. Projects that merely replicate existing offerings are less likely to succeed.

Risk management: Only invest what you can afford to lose. Recognize that token sales are high-risk, high-reward endeavors.

Avoid pump-and-dump schemes: Beware of schemes where token prices are artificially inflated, only to collapse shortly after. Look for offerings with protections against such manipulative practices.

With these considerations in mind, investors can make more informed decisions when participating in token sales and selecting projects to support.

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