Institutional Crypto Crowdfunding Drives Top 100 Project Growth

A new model of institutional-grade crypto crowdfunding is gaining momentum among the top 100 crypto projects, offering an alternative to traditional venture capital. Platforms such as CoinList and Republic have attracted nearly 8 million users and have supported over 30 projects with more than $1 billion in funding since 2017, launching well-known protocols such as Solana, Filecoin, and Flow. These platforms are now facilitating the next wave of token distribution, emphasizing not just capital but also large-scale blockchain onboarding, global brand creation, and faster time-to-market [1].

The growing trend is fueled by oversubscribed public sales, improved contributor frameworks, and growing dissatisfaction with traditional VC models that often exclude retail investors. With over 100 token sales anticipated in the second half of 2025 and 2026, institutional crypto crowdfunding is evolving from a niche infrastructure into a preferred route for high-potential Web3 projects. These platforms are increasingly becoming the go-to infrastructure for projects aiming to enter the top 100 on CoinMarketCap [1].

Notable multi-venue launches have demonstrated the scalability of this model. For example, the WCT token of WalletConnect raised $10 million across multiple platforms. U.S.-based CoinList, a spin-off of AngelList, has introduced offerings such as Obol, Bitlayer, and DoubleZero, employing a karma-based system to reward user engagement. Meanwhile, Republic—backed by Galaxy Digital—has raised over $120 million through its token launchpad. Echo, another platform, has introduced a modular token-sale stack that allows for self-hosted and compliance-friendly sales [1].

Kaito Capital Launchpad is also making a mark with features such as social-reputation allocation and AI-driven analytics. Its first offering, Espresso, included allocation caps, multi-stage vesting, and redistribution of platform fees via the KAITO token. This approach reflects a broader shift toward merit-based allocation and active community engagement [1].

A newer generation of launchpads is focusing on rewarding contributors rather than just investors. SeedList, based in Singapore, removes venture capital from the equation and instead allocates capital to key opinion leaders (KOLs) and strategic partners. Using AI-powered merit-based allocation, SeedList dynamically assesses contributions such as technical development, KOL influence, and community engagement. Unlike traditional lottery or staking-based systems, it prioritizes meaningful participation, particularly from underrepresented jurisdictions [1].

According to Brijesh Patel, co-founder of SeedList, the model aims to create more equitable and impactful token launches. “We believe everyone who adds value should be able to participate in the Seed round of Tier 1 crypto projects,” he said during a closed investor briefing. SeedList aims to onboard KOLs, strategic partners, and micro-influencers to early-stage opportunities that were previously reserved for VCs and insiders [1].

SeedList has backing from industry veterans, including Brijesh Patel, a former partner at Pronomos Capital, and Rosa Pagani, CEO of WhiteBIT Australia. Co-founder CryptoSheldon, a veteran of the Solana ecosystem, emphasized the need for reform in crypto venture capital. He pointed out that platforms like Kaito and Cobie’s Echo have demonstrated the potential of AI and community-driven funding. He predicted that by 2026, platforms such as SeedList, Echo, Kaito, and CoinList could become the preferred go-to-market vehicles for top crypto projects [1].

The convergence of launchpads, exchanges, and VCs is narrowing as institutional and AI-focused crowdfunding platforms embed compliance, analytics, and liquidity into capital formation. This shift allows projects to raise significant funds while building global communities and driving on-chain engagement. With several major token launches scheduled for Q3–Q4 2025, the next year may mark a broader transition toward institutional-grade crypto crowdfunding as the standard funding model for high-potential projects [1].

Source: [1] Institutional Crypto Crowdfunding Gains Momentum Among Top-100 Crypto Projects (https://www.newsbtc.com/news/company/institutional-crypto-crowdfunding-gains-momentum-among-top-100-crypto-projects/)