No, W3DD does not create or manage deals itself, nor does it engage in business development on behalf of Polkadot. W3DD functions as a utility to support BD teams by providing streamlined access to grant funding for deals.

No. W3DD funds are exclusively allocated to projects to help secure deals. There is no direct funding available for BD teams.

W3DD’s primary focus is driving on-chain activity in the Polkadot ecosystem. While there are no strict industry or vertical restrictions at this time, projects must demonstrate a clear link to increasing Polkadot usage, adoption, or ecosystem growth.

Deals are eligible for funding if they demonstrate a direct link to increased on-chain activity within Polkadot. Substrate-based solo chains may qualify if their project includes integration with the Polkadot ecosystem.

W3DD V1.0 will initially deploy capital on an opportunistic basis to better understand the ecosystem’s needs. In time, we plan to define strategic verticals for more targeted allocations. For now, we generally prioritize investing in new opportunities rather than supporting existing projects.

No. W3DD grants are non-dilutive, meaning the Deal Desk does not take equity or tokens in exchange for funding. The goal is to accelerate ecosystem growth, not accumulate ownership stakes.

Yes. W3DD grants are not mutually exclusive. Projects may secure additional funding from VCs, partner organizations, or other grant programs, provided that it does not conflict with any obligations under the W3DD agreement.

If multiple deals are under consideration at the same time, W3DD will review each proposal on its merits, focusing on potential impact to the Polkadot ecosystem, feasibility, and alignment with strategic goals. The most compelling deals, based on the funding criteria, will receive priority.

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of the proposal and the extent of due diligence required. Generally, applicants can expect an initial evaluation and feedback within a few weeks. If the deal progresses, W3DD aims to move as quickly as possible, but timelines ultimately depend on both the BD team’s input and the project’s responsiveness.

W3DD may conduct a light due diligence review of the project, but the primary responsibility lies with the BD team managing the relationship. BD teams must ensure, to the best of their ability, that the information provided in the application is accurate and that proper confirmatory due diligence has been conducted.

No. Deal guidance and milestone design support are exclusively provided to applications that successfully pass the Evaluation Stage of the Deal Desk application assessment process.

No, funding decisions are final. However, if there are material changes to the deal, you may amend your proposal and resubmit it.

All funds go directly to the project’s wallet. In W3DD version 1.0, this funding will be distributed by the Web3 Foundation (W3F).

Frequently asked questions.

Does the W3DD undertake Business Development efforts itself?

Is funding available for BD teams?

Are there any restrictions on the types of projects W3DD will invest in, aside from being connected to Polkadot?

Are Substrate-based chains eligible?

Will preference be given to specific types of projects?

Does W3DD require equity, tokens, or other forms of ownership in funded projects?

Can a project that received W3DD funding also seek additional funding from other sources?

How does W3DD handle simultaneous high-value proposals?

How long does the evaluation process take from submission to funding decision?

Who is responsible for due diligence?

Do all Deal Desk applications receive deal guidance and milestone design support?

Can I appeal a funding decision?

How is the grant funding paid out?