Retro Funding: Dev Tooling rewards toolchain software, such as compilers, libraries and debuggers, that support builders in developing onchain applications on the Superchain.
New in 2025: The Retro Funding program is transitioning from annual rounds to ongoing impact evaluation and regular rewards, offering builders greater consistency and predictability. Learn more
In order to apply, your Onchain project must first be added to OP Atlas. A project can't be considered for enrollment until its setup is complete.
Your impact will be rewarded based on the following criteria:
Your impact will be measured via an evaluation algorithm powered by GitHub, npm, Crates, and Onchain data. The evaluation algorithm will evolve throughout this Retro Funding Mission based on feedback from Optimism Citizens.
All projects must be Open Source. They must have a public GitHub repository with a history of public commits.
JavaScript and Rust Packages must be imported by at least three verified Superchain builder projects contributing 0.01 ETH in L2 gas fees within the past 6 months.
Other Open Source Toolchains must meet these requirements to earn rewards:
Learn more in the Collective Governance Forum: Retro Funding Mission: Dev Tooling
Rewards are distributed monthly based on an evaluation algorithm that measures a tool’s adoption, importance in onchain development, and support for Superchain interoperability. This algorithm uses data from GitHub, npm, Crates, and onchain metrics and evolves based on feedback from Optimism Citizens and Guest Citizens.
Applications are open on a rolling basis from Feb 5 - Jul 31, 2025. Submit your project before March 27th to earn rewards for your projects performance in March.
