Grants, Tokens, Streams: Evolving How We Fund Builders

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 tok ...