Summary
We are excited to share information about StarkWare’s participation in Starknet’s Staking v2 protocol, which is now live.
- StarkWare launched the StarkWare Delegation Program last month and the first delegation round has just been executed. Validators are being accepted on an ongoing basis, with multiple rounds of delegations, so if you missed this round, don’t worry – registration for the next round is already open.
- StarkWare is also participating directly in the protocol by running a validator, which will be capped at 10% of the staking pool, with no external delegation.
We truly appreciate all the thoughtful ideas and feedback community members contributed via the community forum post – your input helped shape the program.
Introduction
Starknet is on a decentralization journey, a key part of which includes gradually moving to a full Proof of Stake (PoS) protocol. On June 17, Starknet implemented Staking v2, a foundational upgrade in Starknet’s journey toward a more decentralized and economically sustainable protocol.
As the staking mechanism continues to evolve, we believe it’s just as important to foster participation, including through growth in total stake, increased decentralization of consensus power, and expansion of the number of active validators and delegators. It is with this in mind that we are taking proactive steps now to enhance stake distribution and support healthy, long-term growth.
The StarkWare Delegation Program
As part of our participation in Starknet’s staking protocol, we’ve launched the StarkWare Delegation Program, an initiative aimed at expanding the staking pool, improving stake distribution, and encouraging wider participation, especially from smaller validators on Starknet.
Validators are key to maintaining Starknet’s stability, security, and resilience – now and even more so as the network continues to decentralize. Building a strong and broad validator set is a key component for the network’s long-term health.
Last month, we opened applications for the first round of delegation. The first registration deadline for the program was July 8 and the first delegation round has just been executed. We’re happy to share that dozens of active validators received delegation in this round. Each eligible validator who meets certain compliance requirements and operational standards is being delegated with a flat, fixed amount of STRKs. We believe that this distribution structure promotes fair allocation, strengthens smaller players, and ensures a simple and transparent process with minimal market impact.
If you are an active validator and haven’t applied to the program yet, it’s not too late. Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis and registration for the second delegation round is now open.
StarkWare’s Validator
In addition to the delegation program, StarkWare is also participating in staking directly by running a validator. This lays the foundation for a future in which StarkWare is one of a broad set of validators operating the network. During Staking v2, StarkWare’s validator will be limited to 10% of the total network stake and will not receive external delegation.
What’s Next?
- If you meet the active validator criteria and have not yet applied to participate in the StarkWare Delegation Program, apply now! Registration for the next round is open.
- To offer your thoughts and ideas about The StarkWare Delegation Program and how to improve it moving forward, please visit this dedicated thread on the Community Forum.
You can also learn more about Starknet’s phased approach to implementing the staking protocol and path to decentralization here and here.
