Bitcoin startups gain access to new crowdfunding platform

Timestamp, a U.S.-based crowdfunding platform, has launched to support Bitcoin-focused (CRYPTO:BTC) startups, providing a new funding avenue for crypto projects.  

The platform, announced on November 25, is accessible to both accredited and non-accredited investors, offering an equity-based model where backers receive ownership stakes in the companies they support.  

"This structure provides investors with real equity ownership while ensuring full regulatory compliance," emphasised Dr. Arman Meguerian, Founder and CEO of Timestamp Financial.  

The platform operates under the oversight of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), having registered with these agencies in October 2023.  

For startups, Timestamp serves as an alternative to traditional venture capital funding.  

The platform charges a 7% commission on successful campaigns without requiring upfront fees.  

Projects can initially launch a campaign page to gauge interest before completing the legal requirements for a public launch.

Although focused on Bitcoin-based firms, investments currently require fiat currency.  

Timestamp plans to integrate Bitcoin payment options by 2025, pending regulatory and banking partnerships.  

The platform’s launch comes amid increased innovation in the Bitcoin ecosystem, spurred by developments such as the Ordinals protocol in 2023 and Bitcoin spot ETFs in 2024.  

Institutional interest in Bitcoin has driven the emergence of startups addressing its network’s needs.  

At present, five startups are raising capital on Timestamp, with projects ranging from Bitcoin wallets to a Bitcoin-inspired augmented reality game.  

“We’re creating the infrastructure needed for sustainable Bitcoin ecosystem growth,” Meguerian stated.

Despite a 20% decline in venture capital funding for crypto startups in Q3 2024, with $2.4 billion raised according to Galaxy Research, Timestamp’s launch signals a renewed push for innovation and investment in the Bitcoin space.  

At the time of reporting, the Bitcoin (BTC) price was $94,833.87.