Core Ventures Launches BTC-FI Accelerator to Empower the Next Wave of Bitcoin DeFi Builders
Core Ventures has launched BTC-FI, a 14-week accelerator for early-stage teams building dApps on Core.
BTC-FI is a 14-week accelerator program that supports the best early-stage teams building staking, yield, and liquidity products on Core chain — the Bitcoin-powered Layer 1.
➤ 8 teams max—exclusive cohort
➤ Post-program funding potential of up to $100K at Demo Day
➤ Hands‑on support from top‑tier operators, investors, and mentors
➤ Direct access to Core’s ecosystem
Some Examples of What You Could Build on Core
Bitcoin-native yield primitives
Design protocols where idle BTC earns yield autonomously. Build simple, transparent products—aggregators, vaults, or native staking tools.
Bounty-driven trading terminals
Build advanced trading interfaces on Core that match CEX-level UX and execution, but run on-chain. Incorporate gamified rewards like contests or strategy bounties to attract volume and liquidity
DApps with economic activity
Ship apps with real users, real flows, and real revenue. We’re looking for measurable throughput—not just demos.
Submit your project for a chance to join the first cohort. We’re selecting 8 standout teams building in staking, yield, and BTC-native DeFi.
Selected teams will get direct access to Core Ventures' network of seasoned builders, investors, and domain experts. From product strategy and token design to growth and fundraising, our mentors bring hands-on experience from building and scaling in crypto’s most competitive verticals.
Selected founders will gain access to Core Ventures' network of mentors — including founders, operators, and investors from some of the most established names in crypto.From product strategy and token design to growth, BD, and fundraising, our mentors offer practical guidance grounded in real-world experience.
BTC-FI is designed for early-stage teams building Bitcoin-native products — especially those focused on staking, yield, and on-chain liquidity. You don’t need to have raised funding, but you should have a clear idea and a committed team.
Selected teams get hands-on mentorship from founders, operators, and investors, funding from Core Ventures, and full-stack support through Harbour Labs. You’ll also get direct access to the Core ecosystem, including technical infrastructure and BD connections.
No — teams from any ecosystem are welcome to apply. If selected, we’ll help you port or build natively on Core, with technical and strategic guidance to make the most of its Bitcoin-native infrastructure.