Launchpads were intended to connect Web3 projects with early investors, but have devolved into cash grabs resulting in half-formed products flooding the market. Virtuals Protocol has launched over 17,000 AI agent tokens, raising questions about the sustainability of this model. Many launchpads lack substance and fund projects without real products.

Designed to help new projects raise funds and increase brand awareness, launchpads connect builders with investors. However, many launchpads prioritize fundraising over long-term success, acting as decentralized Shark Tanks rather than engines of innovation. This approach fails to lead technical innovation and supports projects with no real foundation.

Chain-agnostic launchpads lack focus and standards, becoming chaotic environments that hinder the growth of promising projects. Without guardrails for token design, launchpads become cut-throat arenas where builders struggle to gain meaningful support. The industry must move beyond quick wins and prioritize launching projects with genuine products to succeed.

Builders need better infrastructure to simplify project development and overcome operational bottlenecks. Launchpads should support projects end-to-end, allowing builders to focus on product development rather than patching together disjointed tools. The focus should be on giving builders the tools they need to succeed, not just raising capital.

Launchpads must evolve to support developers in building powerful applications that solve real user problems. Platforms should prioritize creating applications with utility, adoption, and revenue generation. By focusing on building better applications, launchpads can attract more developers and create valuable network effects that solve real problems at scale.

Read more at Cointelegraph: Launchpads Are Funding Ideas, Not Products