Let’s start with defining the difference between blockchain and crypto startups and web3 startups.
Web3 is a term used to describe the next generation of the internet, which is being built on blockchain technology. It encompasses a broad range of decentralized technologies and platforms that are designed to enable trustless and decentralized interactions between users, without the need for intermediaries.
Blockchain and crypto startups, on the other hand, are companies that are focused specifically on leveraging blockchain and cryptocurrency technologies to create new products or services. These companies may be building new blockchain-based platforms, creating new types of digital currencies, or developing applications that leverage decentralized technologies for specific use cases.
While there is some overlap between the two, web3 is a more general concept that encompasses a wider range of technologies and use cases, while blockchain/crypto startups are more focused on specific products or services that are enabled by blockchain and cryptocurrency technologies.
Web3 technology is revolutionizing the way we interact and transact with the internet. In Boston’s innovation hub, many startups are developing Web3 solutions that offer users more control over their data, privacy, and assets.
Three startups to keep an eye on:
Spaceport.xyz - a web3 startup creating tools for creators to monetize their intellectual property in the metaverse,
Blockjoy - a Web3 startup that offers apis to deploy infrastructure nodes in seconds, and
Carma - a first all-in-one Web3 community management platform providing an entire suite of tools for Web3 project owners and community managers.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of who to follow, where to network, and who invests in Web3 companies in the Boston and New England area.
Who to Follow in the Web3 Space
Stay up-to-date with the Boston Web3 startup scene by following these Twitter handles:
Abigail Risse - a seed investor at hyperplane VC, taking over Nick Stuart’s Boston Tech Deals biweekly newsletter
The Boston DAO - The Boston DAO is a crypto-native community formed out of the greater Boston area
LogRocket Podcast - founded by Matthew Arbesfeld and Ben Edelstein, their podcast and blog features many web3 related posts. The platform is empowering software teams to create the ideal web and mobile product experience
Meltem Demirors - the Chief Strategy Officer at CoinShares, a digital asset management firm
Web3 Boston - connecting the #Web3Boston Community. Promoting local events and projects in the web3 Boston Community
Networking Groups, Events, Accelerators and Incubators for Web3 Startups
Interested in the Boston Web3 scene? We’ve pulled together some great resources based right here in Boston AND additional resources you can access worldwide. Here are some groups, events, accelerators, and incubators you may want to check out:
AlphaMiner Labs - creates, launches, and invests in Web3 consumer companies.
The Boston Blockchain Association - a nonprofit that supports the blockchain community in the Greater Boston area
Boston Blockchain Week - an annual conference bringing together people in blockchain, crypto and web3
The Calibration Room - a virtual networking group for women and on-binary humans to come and connect with one another, and have elevated conversations on how to succeed and drive the NFT and Web3 community forward
DCU Fintech Innovation Center - a fintech accelerator focused on advancing next-generation POC stage startups.
MIT Bitcoin Club - a student-run organization that promotes education and research on blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies.
Web3.0, DAOs, NFTs and Metaverse Meetup - this is a global virtual meetup group where you can connect with others interested in blockchain
Web3 Foundation Grants Program - a program that supports Web3 development by providing funding to developers and startups.
Web3Native - a great collection of grants, accelerators and incubators located worldwide
W3WG - while this organization is not primarily based in New England, it is a valuable resource for the Web3 startup community and one worth checking out for videos that can help you learn more about Web3
Investors in Web3
See below a few firms that invest in Web3 startups in the Boston and New England area:
Blockchain Capital - focuses exclusively on blockchain technology and cryptocurrency startups.
Castle Island Ventures - invests in startups building on public blockchain networks, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.
Future Perfect Ventures - invests in early-stage startups using technology to transform industries, including Web3 and blockchain.
Hyperplane - interested in areas such as Web3, AI and robotics
Longhash Ventures - invests in startups building decentralized applications, blockchain infrastructure, and other Web3 technologies.
Pillar VC - focuses on investing in early-stage startups that are leveraging Web3 technologies to build the future of the internet.
Underscore VC - focuses on investing in the next generation of Web3 technologies, including blockchain, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.
Additional note: Crypto platforms, such as Algorand and Circle, are also active investors in the space in Boston.
Stay tuned with latest updates on the Boston Web3 Startup Scene
The Boston Web3 scene is a hotbed of innovation, with startups and investors alike exploring the potential of blockchain technology and decentralized applications.
By following the right people, attending events, and connecting with accelerators and incubators, you can stay on top of the latest trends and build your network in the Web3 space. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or an investor, Boston is a great place to be for anyone interested in the future of the internet.
The space is constantly changing and new players enter the game. We try to keep our resources up to date, but if there’s anything we missed send us a message using this link. Thank you!
About the Author - Gabon Williams is a software security engineer who has worked as a venture capitalist, startup CTO, and a web3 developer. He is committed to empowering individuals and imparting compassionate leadership skills through mentorship. He also volunteers to promote technology and financial literacy to underprivileged students. Gabon shares his expertise on a range of topics through his blog, where he focuses on empowering others to achieve their full potential.