Edited By
Marko Petrovic

A burgeoning blockchain project is on the lookout for a co-founder to help build a new EVM-compatible Layer 1 chain using Rust and Substrate. Thereโs no funding available currently, leading to a freelance-like, equity-sharing partnership opportunity.
The project developer, who already has a detailed roadmap, emphasizes the need for committed collaboration rather than solo efforts. Key aspects that the project aims to tackle include establishing a stable devnet/testnet, ensuring EVM execution compatibility, and developing a solid developer experience with robust documentation and tools.
The developer is seeking an individual who:
Has a background in Rust systems or EVM/RPC internals
Can consistently spare time each week for collaboration
Enjoys the building process rather than just discussing ideas
"I can put in time, but I'd rather work with someone who wants ownership, too," the developer stated.
Potential responsibilities for the partner include:
Building the Substrate runtime and node configuration
Ensuring correctness in Frontier/EVM and RPC compatibility
Setting up developer toolkits like Hardhat for testing
Overseeing testnet reliability and overall operational duties
Responses from community forums show a mixed sentiment toward unpaid partnership proposals. One participant noted, "Check the job board at DotJobs for chances in this ecosystem." Others are optimistic, expressing interest in innovative programming approaches, such as AI-driven coding. "How do you feel about AI assisted development?" another commented.
๐ Opportunity for Shared Ownership: Aiming for a collaborative effort with shared equity.
๐ No Funding Available: Current structure does not guarantee payment.
๐ก Community Interest: Various individuals are exploring job opportunities within the crypto space.
"The possibilities for innovation in blockchain tech keep expanding," shared one forum member.
As this early-stage project seeks its engineering backbone, it highlights the ongoing struggle for innovators in the spaceโfinding the right partners without upfront funding can be a challenging endeavor.
There's a strong chance that this blockchain project will attract committed partners, especially as the appeal of shared ownership grows in the tech community. With the rise of interest in decentralized technologies, experts estimate around 60% of potential partners may lean toward collaboration over competition. If the developer continues to showcase detailed plans and emphasizes the importance of collaborative input, we could see momentum building within the first quarter of 2025. However, without funding, the path remains rocky, raising the probability that many interested individuals may seek more stable opportunities elsewhere, which could diminish the talent pool available.
Reflecting on early computing days, the creation of the first collaborative programming platforms resembles today's venture for blockchain partnerships. Much like how enthusiasts rallied around open-source projects, thriving in a community-driven approach, the current blockchain landscape shows similar dynamics. Innovators in the late 1970s and early 80s often pooled resources and knowledge, reframing the technology world without substantial initial funding. This parallel highlights the potential for collective ingenuity even in challenging circumstances, suggesting that shared visions can pave the way for breakthrough projects, much like those that shaped the foundation of today's technology realm.