Soneium Launches Web3 Incubator Backed by Sony Innovation Fund
▼ Summary
– Soneium, an Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain by Sony Block Solutions Labs, launched “Soneium For All,” an incubator program with Astar Network and Startale Cloud Services to boost consumer and gaming apps.
– The program targets high-potential Web3 projects, helping them overcome go-to-market challenges like user traction and scalability, with launches expected by Q3 2025.
– Accepted developers will build on Soneium’s production-ready network, backed by Sony’s infrastructure and major IPs like Solo Leveling and Ghost in the Shell.
– Selected projects gain exposure through Soneium’s marketing channels and potential investment support via the Sony Innovation Fund, including mentoring and follow-on funding.
– A $60,000 grant pool is available for projects integrating ASTR, supported by partnerships with Astar Network and Startale Cloud Services, with applications open until late July.
Soneium, the Ethereum Layer-2 blockchain backed by Sony, has unveiled a groundbreaking incubator program designed to fuel innovation in Web3 gaming and consumer applications. Dubbed “Soneium For All,” this initiative partners with Astar Network and Startale Cloud Services to provide developers with the tools, funding, and exposure needed to bring their projects to life.
The platform has already gained significant traction, boasting over 7 million users, $215 million in total value locked, and 1.5 million daily transactions. Major franchises like Solo Leveling, Seven Deadly Sins, and Ghost in the Shell have already leveraged Soneium’s infrastructure, solidifying its reputation as a leading entertainment-focused blockchain.
The incubator aims to tackle common hurdles faced by Web3 startups—user acquisition, technical scalability, and market visibility, while accelerating development timelines. Selected projects will benefit from direct access to Sony’s global infrastructure, mentorship from the Sony Innovation Fund, and potential follow-on investments. Additionally, participants gain exposure through Soneium’s official marketing channels, including featured blog posts, live Q&As, and promotional campaigns.
A $60,000 grant pool has been allocated for projects that integrate Astar Network’s ASTR token as a utility or payment method. This strategic collaboration builds on Astar’s existing presence within the Soneium ecosystem, where over 40 projects already utilize ASTR.
Ryohei Suzuki, Director of Sony Block Solutions Labs, emphasized the program’s mission: “We’re lowering barriers for developers and fostering a more open, creator-driven internet.” Maarten Henskens of Astar Foundation echoed this sentiment, highlighting the incubator as a natural progression following the success of previous initiatives.
Applications for “Soneium For All” opened on June 9, with winning projects set to be announced in late July. Deployments are expected to begin shortly after, with some launches anticipated as early as Q3 2025.
Soneium continues to push boundaries as a general-purpose blockchain, blending Sony’s technological expertise with Web3 innovation. By bridging cultural divides and enabling new forms of digital interaction, the platform is reshaping how users and creators engage with the internet.
For developers eager to join this ecosystem, further details can be found on Soneium’s official website.
(Source: VentureBeat)
