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: pod@optimism.show
DISCLAIMER: This episode does not constitute financial advice. Web3, DAOs, and decentralized tools carry risk. Always do your own research (DYOR).
