Evolving the Chainlink Build Program

The Chainlink ecosystem is continually evolving how it supports the growth of early and mid-stage projects. As part of this work, Chainlink Labs periodically reassesses existing programs to ensure resources are optimized to achieve the greatest long-term impact for network growth.

Since its launch, the Chainlink Build program has helped accelerate the growth of more than 80 projects, providing teams with the technical support, strategic guidance, ecosystem connections, and visibility needed to get to market and grow. Through the Chainlink Rewards program, approximately $20 million worth of Build project tokens have been made available to eligible LINK stakers. We are grateful to every team and contributor who has been part of the program along the way.

As broader market conditions and project funding models have shifted, it has become clear that the Build program’s structure must also adapt to reflect the changing landscape. As such, Chainlink Labs is transitioning from payments made in project tokens to focusing on commercial agreements involving fees paid in LINK or other liquid assets that can be readily converted to LINK.

With this shift, existing arrangements under the Build program are being concluded, while new commercial agreements are being established based on historical participation in the Build program on a case-by-case basis. Proceeds from these new agreements are expected to be programmatically converted to LINK and used to support the growth of the network through programs such as the Chainlink Reserve. Going forward, ecosystem growth programs will take a new approach, with a focus on engaging with strategically aligned projects. As part of this transition, the most recent season of Chainlink Rewards will mark the conclusion of Build-related token rewards, with claims ending on July 7, 2026. 

Product and engineering resources currently supporting the Rewards program will be redirected toward higher-priority economic initiatives that benefit the broader Chainlink community. We will continue to work with projects in refining how growth programs support early-stage builders in the Chainlink ecosystem.

—

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and contains statements about the future, including anticipated programs and features, developments, and timelines for the rollout of these programs and features. These statements are only predictions and reflect current beliefs and expectations with respect to future events; they are based on assumptions and are subject to risk, uncertainties, and change at any time, including the discontinuance of any announced program or feature without notice. There can be no guarantee that any of the contemplated programs or features will be implemented as specified nor any assurance that actual results will not differ materially from those expressed in these statements, although we believe them to be based on reasonable assumptions. All statements are valid only as of the date first posted. The statements in this post also may not reflect future developments due to user feedback or later events and we may not update this post in response. Please review the Chainlink Terms of Service and Chainlink Rewards Terms of Service, which provide important information and disclosures.