Rarible, Velodrome and Across Protocol deploying on Lisk L2 network
Lisk has transitioned from a Layer-1 network to become part of the OP Superchain as an L2 network, and this transformation has already attracted various industry-leading dapps. At the same time, they have now deployed LSK as an ERC20 token, making it interoperable with the rest of the blockchain ecosystem.
Last month, Lisk launched its developer mainnet, empowering developers to deploy their projects on the new L2 network. These dapps are already fully operational, and can drive revenue from day one. All these dapps are now EVM-compatible, enhancing interoperability within the wider Ethereum ecosystem.
This transition from L1 to an L2 network, has attracted a wide variety of projects, including Rarible, Velodrome and Across Protocol. In addition, Secret Network, Oku Trade and Obligate have also deployed within the Lisk ecosystem.
In May the team transitioned LSK to become an ERC-20 token. On top of that, a new decentralized autonomous organization, called Lisk DAO, launched this June. Through this organization, LSK token holders can stake their bags for voting power, influencing governance and project direction. The DAO’s treasury initially holds 45 million LSK tokens, or $54.5 million at the current rates. The DAO has allocated 24 million LSK tokens as rewards for community participation over the next 3 years. Staking is now live, giving users voting rights, staking rewards and eligibility for future airdrops, called HodlerDrops.
A new focus on Real World Assets
Alongside the technical changes to the Lisk ecosystem, the organization also shifted its focus. Being part of the Optimism Superchain, Lisk decided to position itself as a gateway to Real World Assets (RWAs) in emerging markets. Targeting this sector gives Lisk an edge, as it unlocks the transformative potential of blockchain technology where it can really make an impact.
Over the past year, the total value locked in real-world asset (RWA) projects surged by 700%, reaching $8 billion, according to Messari. Investment firm Blackrock thinks even bigger, expecting a $10 trillion market by 2030 according to a report from Forbes. RWAs transform various assets—from real estate and artwork to treasury bonds—into tradable tokens on the blockchain. This innovation simplifies international trade, enables cross-border funding, and provides investment opportunities to unbanked populations. It makes previously challenging transactions possible.
The amount of innovation is huge. For example, Lisk is involved in a project in Berlin where telecommunication towers also become drone charging stations. Even though this project is still in its testing phase, these commercial drones need to be able to pay for charging and receive payments for deliveries. Steax showcased the concept during Berlin Blockchain Week, as they are working on establishing a drone corridor between Berlin State and the neighboring Brandenburg State. This concept is being discussed with relevant German authorities.
Using RWAs can also make it easier to transfer assets and keep records that can’t be tampered with, leading to broader economic benefits. In Africa, where natural resources haven’t always led to widespread economic growth or democratic improvements, RWAs offer big opportunities. By using stable assets like USDT for global trade, Africans can access financial services like lending, borrowing, and investing in futures and bonds. This helps level the playing field with the West. Lisk wants to launch a fund, dedicated to RWAs and supporting emerging markets, and Africa in particular.
Build on Lisk and join the Grant Program
Lisk wants to attract developers to build on their L2 network. That’s why they’ve designed a Grant Program, to attract innovation. Developers can receive up to $100,000 in funding, to make their concept into reality.
Through the Grant Program, Lisk offers financial support, resources, and mentorship for projects contributing to the Lisk ecosystem, particularly in Real World Assets (RWA), DePIN, and on-chain finance.
Also keep in mind, because projects built on Lisk tap into the OP Superchain, every developer building can also apply to the Optimism Superchain’s Retroactive Public Goods Funding. In addition, Lisk has plans to set up its own program, to reward projects based on their impact.
Closing words
The launch of the Lisk Developer Mainnet is a major milestone for the Layer-2 network, but they are far from done. Lisk’s focus on Real World Assets, DePIN and financial services, positions the network as an entry door for emerging markets to the OP Superchain. As more dapps and services find their way to Lisk, their focus on emerging markets will empower an entire continent.
