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: [email protected]

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