“Struggling to run growth campaigns because our tokenomics isn’t finalized — how do others handle this?

Olivia Smith · 2025-11-06T23:03:36+00:00

I handle growth for an early-stage DeFi protocol still finalizing tokenomics. Our marketing strategy is stuck because we can’t run any token-based campaigns or referral incentives. Founders say “wait till TGE,” but we’re losing momentum. I’ve suggested non-token funnels (education quests, community calls, builder programs) but investor expectations are “numbers now.” How do other DeFi projects sustain community and user growth before their token is live? Any proof-driven tactics that worked in the pre-token phase? Bonus if you’ve run experiments that didn’t rely on airdrops or referral rewards.

“Struggling to run growth campaigns because our tokenomics isn’t finalized — how do others handle this?

Olivia Smith
@SmartOlivia

Updated: Nov 7, 2025

Views: 64

I handle growth for an early-stage DeFi protocol still finalizing tokenomics. Our marketing strategy is stuck because we can’t run any token-based campaigns or referral incentives. Founders say “wait till TGE,” but we’re losing momentum.
I’ve suggested non-token funnels (education quests, community calls, builder programs) but investor expectations are “numbers now.”
How do other DeFi projects sustain community and user growth before their token is live?
Any proof-driven tactics that worked in the pre-token phase? Bonus if you’ve run experiments that didn’t rely on airdrops or referral rewards.

2

Replies

Howdy guest!

Dear guest, you must be logged-in to participate on ArtOfBlockChain. We would love to have you as a member of our community. Consider creating an account or login.

Replies

FintechLee

@FintechLee • 2w

We built a full “pre-token economy” on reputation. Instead of rewards, we issued digital collectibles via Galxe for milestones: first feedback form, first Dune query, etc. When TGE came, 42% of those collectors auto-converted to token holders. Build psychological ownership before financial ownership.

AuditWardenRashid

@AuditWarden • 2w

For one DeFi protocol, we delayed token launch for 5 months but built traction through “Proof of Progress” reports. Weekly Notion updates with contribution stats (code merges, docs added, GitHub stars). Transparency itself became the growth driver. Users shared our reports on Twitter, giving 3x organic reach.