Core Ventures, a Bitcoin-driven venture fund, has launched the BTC-FI Accelerator, a 14-week remote program designed to empower early-stage Bitcoin DeFi developers and entrepreneurs. The initiative offers selected teams up to $100,000 in funding, along with mentorship, industry connections, and strategic support to help scale their projects from concept to execution. Applications are open through the end of August, with the program commencing in Q3 2025 [1].

The BTC-FI Accelerator is tailored to support the next wave of Bitcoin DeFi innovation, with a focus on foundational financial infrastructure and tools. It is looking to fund eight teams that align with Core’s long-term vision and demonstrate strong execution potential. The accelerator’s founder-first approach includes guidance on product development, tokenomics, legal structuring, and fundraising, emphasizing a collaborative and growth-oriented mindset [2].

The program prioritizes four key areas: yield protocols, DeFi trading applications, launch platforms, and high-yield growth experiments. These categories reflect the growing demand for Bitcoin-based financial tools that can generate yield, streamline token launches, and enhance user accessibility while maintaining decentralization. By supporting teams in these spaces, Core Ventures aims to expand Bitcoin’s utility beyond its traditional role as a store of value [3].

The BTC-FI Accelerator underscores a broader industry shift toward Bitcoin-native DeFi, driven by innovations such as self-custodial staking and EVM compatibility. Core’s platform allows developers to build decentralized applications that leverage Bitcoin’s liquidity and security, offering a scalable alternative to Ethereum-based solutions. The initiative aligns with the increasing interest in Bitcoin as a programmable asset, capable of supporting a diverse range of financial use cases [4].

With over $500 million in DeFi TVL and 7,000+ timelocked Bitcoin, Core’s ecosystem is already demonstrating strong traction. The accelerator is expected to further accelerate this momentum by providing early-stage founders with the resources needed to bring novel Bitcoin-based financial products to market. The selected teams will gain access to Core’s extensive network of VCs, developers, and partners, enhancing their chances of long-term success [5].

The program’s timing reflects a growing institutional appetite for Bitcoin-based innovation. As more venture capital firms and developers explore Bitcoin’s expanding capabilities, the BTC-FI Accelerator positions itself as a catalyst for building the next generation of DeFi protocols. The initiative could help diversify the DeFi landscape by reducing reliance on Ethereum and fostering new applications built on Bitcoin’s robust infrastructure [6].

Applicants are required to submit a pitch deck, product roadmap, team information, and an explanation of how their idea aligns with Core’s vision. Early submissions are encouraged for feedback and early-stage engagement. The program will culminate in a Demo Day, offering selected teams additional investor visibility and fundraising opportunities [7].

Source:

[1] Brave New Coin (https://bravenewcoin.com/) [2] Decrypt (https://decrypt.co/336536/silqfi-and-helix-pioneer-shariah-compliant-tokenized-invoice-financing-to-bridge-defi-and-embedded-finance) [3] Decrypt (https://decrypt.co/press-releases) [4] Fintech Finance (https://ffnews.com/companies/)