New blockchains, called Layer 1s, are giving away huge amounts of free tokens. We are talking more than $100 million in some cases. This is called an airdrop. It’s a way for these new projects to get people to use their networks.

Why Are Blockchains Giving Away Free Tokens?
Think of it like a company giving away free samples of a new product. They want people to try it and hopefully become regular customers. For new blockchains, airdrops help them:
- Build a community: More users mean more activity on the network.
- Reward early supporters: People who believed in the project early on get a thank you.
- Distribute tokens widely: This helps make the network more decentralized.
In the past, some airdrops were easy to farm. People would create many fake accounts to get more free tokens. But this is changing. Projects want real users.
What’s New in Airdrops Today?
Projects are looking for users who actually use their network. This means doing things like:
- Making transactions on the blockchain.
- Using new applications built on the blockchain.
- Participating in the network’s governance.
For example, you might have seen the Polygon zkEVM launch or opportunities with new chains. These often reward users who test their systems. The goal is to get people involved in a meaningful way. This is a big shift from just doing simple tasks. You can learn more about what to watch for in our guide on new crypto airdrops.
How to Find and Participate in Airdrops
Finding airdrops takes some research. Here’s how you can stay informed:
- Follow Project Announcements: Keep an eye on the official social media channels (like Twitter) of new blockchains and crypto projects.
- Read Crypto News: Sites like CoinTelegraph report on upcoming and ongoing airdrops.
- Use Airdrop Trackers: Some websites list current and upcoming airdrop opportunities.
- Engage with New Networks: The best way to qualify is often to be an early user. Try out new Layer 1 blockchains and the applications built on them.
Remember, not every airdrop is worth your time. Some require you to spend money to earn tokens. Always do your own research before participating. Make sure the project is legitimate and the potential reward makes sense for the effort and cost involved. The trend is clear: real use and participation are key to getting these valuable tokens.