The first step in entering the SCF is to come up with a killer project. But winning the SCF isn’t just about that. It’s a sales pitch. It’s all about building relationships and storytelling. Here are 10 tips to help you succeed and win awards!
Applying to receive your submission worksheet only takes a minute! The worksheet allows you to iterate on your submission with your team until the deadline, so make sure to take your time before pitching your project.
Think deeply about what problem you’d like to solve. Step outside your own sphere and into the greater world: who is affected by this problem, and what are their needs? Always keep your users in mind when designing your project.
While the tech of Stellar alone is powerful, interoperating with existing players in the ecosystem is even more so. Integrate third-party APIs and take advantage of existing assets to settle real-world transactions.
Make yourself known in the SCF Discord and beyond! Get eyes on your project: connect with fellow community members, gather feedback, and ask questions. The networks you build now will make all the difference in the future.
Is your idea viable? Are there gaps you haven’t thought of yet? Who are your competitors, and what makes your idea stand apart? Conduct basic research to show that you’ve put in the work to convince voters your project is achievable and here to stay.
After you’ve built your project concept, get your friends, family, and the Stellar community at large to take a look or test your new product or service. Learn from their experiences and refine the user experience as you move along.
Voters will judge your submission based on whether they find your goals attainable and your budget appropriate. List the steps needed to reach your next goal. The costs necessary to complete them will sum up your budget!
The first thing that catches people’s attention is a visually appealing thumbnail. Also, a great demo video is one of the best ways to convince the community that your project is worthwhile. Get in front of a camera, get us in your elevator, and make your pitch.
Read the rules to make sure your project is eligible for awards. Pay attention to the brand policy, and confirm your code is secure. Leaking users’ secret keys, even in test mode, will disqualify you from winning awards.
Gather valuable insights from previous winners and projects in the broader Stellar ecosystem. What made their projects successful? What problems do they solve? Also, make sure your idea and messaging are unique so you stand out from the crowd and earn votes.
Visit communityfund.stellar.org to learn more.
How to Succeed at the Stellar Community Fund was originally published in Stellar Community on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.