In this episode of The Optimism Show , Kris Gligoroski sits down with Ruben from OB Dollar to explore the structural flaws in grant-based funding for onchain builders. The discussion highlights issues like OP token volatility, delayed payouts, and the overdependence on retroactive rewards. Ruben outlines potential alternatives—including real-time funding streams via Drips and Superfluid, milestone-based incentives, and treasury-backed loans—that offer more predictable and sustainable support. The conversation also touches on Superchain dynamics, funding politics, and the often-overlooked offchain work required to grow the ecosystem. A timely look at how funding models in Web3 are evolving. 00:08 – Real-time funding with Drips & Superfluid 02:22 – The limits of retroactive rewards 05:31 – OP token volatility & builder risk 07:33 – Marketing incentives vs. builder pay 10:59 – Grants vs. sustainable project timelines 14:40 – What onchain metrics don’t capture 16:15 – Balancing builder needs & investor goals 18:15 – Superchain politics & funding power dynamics 20:01 – Final message: collective care ≠ optional Connect with Ruben: Twitter/X: https://x.com/optimisticUSD Website: https://obdollar.xyz Connect with Kris: Warpcast: https://warpcast.com/thekris LinkedIn: / thekrispartner For sponsorships and collaborations: Email:
[email protected] DISCLAIMER: This episode does not constitute financial advice. Web3, DAOs, and decentralized tools carry risk. Always do your own research (DYOR).
