Blockchain startups are multiplying quickly into an ever more congested market, currently boasting approximately 18.5 million active projects. So the task of cutting through the noise and getting noticed gets harder by the day. If you want to establish a thriving blockchain startup ecosystem, first learn how to connect with your audience on an emotional level. We believe technical skills fall short of this important first step. Like any startup, founders need to convey their conviction and vision in order to rally those initial backers. These enthusiastic supporters will be key as the project scales.
The process starts with the artist answering the question of why they’re doing this project. This transparency builds the trust and engagement that are critical in developing a passionate community. Finally, having a predictable communication cadence—like a weekly release schedule—forces startups to keep momentum and stay top of mind. You can extend the reach even more by cross-posting that content to your personal channels, including Medium and LinkedIn.
Engaging with the Community
To deepen community engagement, founders should seek diverse ways to connect. Co-hosting a Twitter Space can serve as an interactive platform for discussions, enabling direct communication with potential supporters and investors. Additionally, collaborations like via guest post exchanges or collaborative bounties can build relationships within the blockchain ecosystem.
Instead, founders should plan a specific goal for each event they attend, such as connecting with five new people per event. Each person you connect with introduces you not just to one person but dozens of invaluable resources, contacts and insights. Investors, future operators, and potential development partners will scrutinize the first signals sent into the market. As such, making a compelling and attractive first impression is critical.
“Why decentralized identity matters for gig workers.” – Source
Building Lasting Relationships
Building relationships with community members early on is key to fostering success well into the future. These early adopters usually become key evangelists, serving to accelerate broader adoption as the project naturally grows in size. The blockchain community runs on word of mouth! By keeping those relationships healthy, you can open doors to speaking opportunities, podcast invites, or pilot customers down the road.
Second, following up quickly with your new contacts is key. According to congressional advocacy experts, the best practice is to follow up within 24 hours with a thank-you note and an informative resource. This practice further deepens the relationship and shows attention to detail and a level of professional seriousness and commitment. Notes jotted down shortly after each meeting will help you create tailored follow-up communication, continuing to cultivate these valuable connections.
This is the same level of agility that startups need in their early days, so they can iterate on tactics before doubling down with real dollars. Measure important metrics such as WA community members, newsletter sign-ups, demo requests, smart contract interactions on testnet. All these metrics provide you with important community engagement insights.
The Importance of Early Supporters
Your first backers and original community members are the lifeblood of any new blockchain venture. Their excitement and input can ensure the project’s evolution and keep it on a better path to make the most impact. Once your project is underway, it’s even more important to keep an open line of communication with these supporters. Frequent communication and opportunities to engage with ongoing conversations build your communities’ sense of voice, ownership, and need for the project to succeed.
The reality is that investors and partners will determine the viability of an emerging blockchain startup in large part on what community dynamics look like. In short, a deep bench of eager advocates is a clear indicator of future expansion and durability. Startups need to engage their earliest community members and put them in the driver’s seat. This gives them the opportunity to weigh in with their best ideas before plans are made.
