Discover the Best Crypto Launchpads for Your Token Project
January 14, 2025
As a token issuer, you know that early opportunities in cryptocurrency often bring the highest rewards. From the investor’s perspective, investing in projects like yours during their early stages can be the key to maximizing returns. Think of your project like for example Google or Apple – investing in these companies today won’t provide the same gains as getting in when they were just starting out.
That’s why launchpads were created giving early investors a chance to discover and support early birds before they become widely popular and more expensive.
What Are Crypto Launchpads and Why Are They Important?
Token launchpads are token crowdfunding platforms. Platforms designed to help new cryptocurrency projects raise funds and gain visibility while giving investors the chance to buy tokens early, often at favorable rates. For token issuers, a launchpad acts as a support system, providing crucial infrastructure like funding mechanisms, marketing support, and technical resources to ensure a successful token launch.
These platforms are tailored to connect emerging blockchain projects with a community of investors and enthusiasts. Through organized fundraising events like Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs), Initial DEX Offerings (IDOs), or Initial Exchange Offerings (IEOs), launchpads enable token issuers to sell a portion of their tokens in exchange for capital – usually in popular cryptocurrencies like Ethereum or stablecoins.
Beyond fundraising, token launchpads often offer services such as due diligence, project vetting, and exposure to a wide investor base. They also assist with community building and marketing campaigns, ensuring that projects don’t just raise money but also establish credibility and momentum in the competitive crypto market.
Different Types of Fundraising Models and Token Launchpads
There are various Token Launchpads designed to help cryptocurrency projects launch their tokens through different types of token offering events. Each type of launchpad caters to a specific fundraising model, offering unique features and benefits for both projects and investors. By choosing the right type of launchpad, projects can align their fundraising strategy with their goals, target audience, and technical requirements.
Types of token offerings:
ICO (Initial Coin Offering)
An ICO is like a crowdfunding event where a crypto project sells its tokens directly to investors through its own website (or specialized sales platforms like Coinlist or TokenSoft). It’s the most independent method, but the project handles everything, including marketing, and there’s less oversight.
IDO (Initial DEX Offering)
An IDO happens on a decentralized exchange (DEX). The tokens are sold and launched directly on a blockchain-based platform like Pancakeswap. This method often provides instant trading after the launch.
IEO (Initial Exchange Offering)
In an IEO, the token sale is hosted by a centralized exchange (CEX) like Binance, which handles the promotion, sale, and even vetting of the project. The exchange’s reputation can give the project added credibility, but it often charges higher fees.
Key Difference:
- ICOs are self-managed by the project.
- IEOs are hosted by centralized exchanges
- IDOs are hosted on decentralized platforms. Launching an IDO can be faster, cheaper and without complex procedures like on CEXs.
Top Crypto Launchpads for Token Projects in 2025
Binance Launchpad: The Giant in the Space
Type: Initial Exchange Offering (IEO) platform.
Funds Raised*: $210,935,285
Projects Launched*: 101
Purpose: Helps blockchain startups raise funds and gain exposure through token launches backed by Binance, the world’s largest crypto exchange by trading volume.
Benefits for Startups: Offers access to Binance’s ecosystem, knowledge, and support to reach a broad base of investors.
Investor Returns: Some token launches have yielded over 30x returns for early participants.
Project Approval: Projects undergo thorough audits, focusing on key points like: token economics, team quality, project maturity, and growth potential before being listed.
Reach: Listed projects gain immediate visibility among millions of Binance users worldwide, ensuring high exposure and utility.
Comparison with Binance Launchpool:
- Launchpad: Focuses on IEOs, offering early access to tokens through direct purchase.
- Launchpool: Allows users to stake tokens to earn new ones for free, ideal for generating passive income.
* based on data published on https://launchpad.binance.com (7/01/2025)
Polkastarter
Type: Initial DEX Offering (IDO) platform.
Raised capital*: $41,582,502.04
Funded Projects*: 113
Unique Participants*: 30,294
Purpose: Founded in 2020. Enables cross-chain token pools and auctions, allowing blockchain startups to raise funds and launch tokens on decentralized exchanges.
Benefits for Startups: Supports a multi-chain approach, making it ideal for projects looking to leverage interoperability. Projects gain access to a broad investor base and marketing resources to ensure a successful launch.
Investor Returns: Known for introducing projects with strong community engagement, offering early-stage investment opportunities with potential high returns.
Project Approval: Projects are vetted based on innovation, team credibility, technical feasibility, and community impact. Polkastarter emphasizes quality and utility to protect investors.
Reach: Provides exposure to a diverse audience across multiple blockchain networks, boosting project visibility and adoption.
Unique Features:
- Multi-chain compatibility, including Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, Polygon, and more.
- Fixed swap pools to ensure fair token distribution and avoid price manipulation.
Categories: DeFi, NFTs, gaming, and Metaverse-focused initiatives.
* based on data published on https://polkastarter.com/projects (7/01/2025)
DAO Maker Launchpad
Type: Decentralized platform for token offerings and funding, primarily catering to Initial DEX Offerings (IDOs) and Strong Holder Offerings (SHOs).
Raised capital*: $90M+
Funded Projects: 171 (by Cryptorank)
Unique Participants*: 315K KYCed Users (1.1M connected wallets)
Benefits for Startups: Provides technical, financial, and marketing support. Projects benefit from DAO Maker’s robust community and tools for decentralized governance.
Project Approval: Projects undergo a strict vetting process based on innovation, potential growth, and alignment with the platform’s community-driven ethos.
Unique Features:
- Strong Holder Offerings (SHOs): A unique model targeting loyal and committed token holders for fundraising.
- Community incentives to encourage project participation and retention.
- Multi-chain support, including Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, and others.
Notable Achievements: Successfully launched over 100 projects across DeFi, NFTs, gaming, and more, collectively raising millions of dollars.
* based on data published on https://daomaker.community/launchpad/ (9/01/2025)
Bybit Launchpad
Type: Initial Exchange Offering (IEO)
Number of Token Sales: 70 (by cryptorank)
Popular Categories: Metaverse, DeFi, and gaming.
Total Funds Raised: $32.03M (by cryptorank)
Participants*: 2,309,207
Mechanism: Participants commit BIT tokens or USDT during the subscription phase and receive token allocations based on their holdings.
Major Projects Launched
- Galaxy Blitz (MIT): A metaverse-based game combining DeFi and NFT elements.
- Reef Finance (REEF): A DeFi-focused project aimed at providing cross-chain trading.
Supported Chains
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Binance Smart Chain (BSC)
- Solana (SOL)
* based on data published on https://www.bybit.com/en/trade/spot/m/launchpad (9/01/2025)
OKX Jumpstart Overview
OKX is one of the top 3 worldwide cryptocurrency exchanges for derivatives trading volume.
Type: Initial Exchange Offering (IEO). Jumpstart currently has two types of events for users: Mining/Staking Model (you need to stake your BTC or ETH or other required coins for a period, then you can get the rewards after the campaign ends) and On Sale (Discount Sale Model).
Number of IEOs: 17 (by Cryptorank)
Popular Categories: DeFi, gaming, and infrastructure projects.
Total Funds Raised: $55.29M (by Cryptorank)
Mechanism: Participants commit OKB tokens (OKX’s native token) during the subscription phase, with allocations based on their holdings.
Major Projects Launched
- HyperDAO (HDAO): A DeFi ecosystem offering decentralized financial services.
- ZK – Polyhedra Network
- MSN – Meson. Network
- RUNECOIN
Supported Chains
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Binance Smart Chain (BSC)
- OKX Chain (OKC)
Seedify
Known for its specialization in GameFi and metaverse initiatives.
Type: Initial Decentralized Offering (IDO), Initial Game Offerings (IGOs)
Number of IDO’s: 115
Popular Categories: GameFi, metaverse, NFTs, and DeFi projects.
Total Funds Raised: $47.56M (by Cryptorank)
Mechanism: Participants stake $SFUND (Seedify’s native token) to gain tier-based access to token sales.
Specialization: GameFi, metaverse, and NFT-focused projects.
Major Projects Launched
- Cryowar: A real-time multiplayer GameFi project.
- ChainGuardians: A blockchain-based gaming ecosystem.
- Bloktopia: A metaverse project offering virtual real estate opportunities.
Supported Chains
- Binance Smart Chain (BSC)
- Ethereum (ETH)
- Polygon (MATIC)
BSCPad
BSCPad is a decentralized launchpad tailored for projects on the Binance Smart Chain (BSC).
Type: Initial Decentralized Offering (IDO).
Number of Token Sales: Over 100 projects successfully launched.
Popular Categories: DeFi, gaming, NFTs, and utility tokens.
Total Raised: Over $40 million.
Mechanism: Tier-based system requiring participants to hold and stake $BSCPAD tokens to gain guaranteed allocation in token sales.
Specialization: DeFi, gaming, metaverse, and utility projects.
Major Projects Launched
- BSWAP: A decentralized trading platform.
- GameZone: A gaming ecosystem launchpad.
- NFTLaunch: Focused on non-fungible token (NFT) projects.
Supported Chains
- Binance Smart Chain (BSC).
TrustSwap
TrustSwap Launchpad is a decentralized platform designed to support token launches with a focus on security, scalability, and flexibility.
Type: Initial Decentralized Offering (IDO).
Mechanism: Designed with anti-dump measures and secure token locks to protect investors and project teams.
Specialization: Wide-ranging projects including DeFi, gaming, and NFTs.
Major Projects Launched
- CellFrame
- SOLIDUS AI TECH
- Alpaca Network Public Round
Supported Chains
- Ethereum (ETH).
- Binance Smart Chain (BSC).
- Polygon (MATIC).
- Avalanche (AVAX).
Numbers and Performance
- Number of Token Sales: Over 45 successful launches.
- Popular Categories: DeFi, gaming, NFTs, and utility tokens.
- Total Raised: Over $100 million.
GameFI Launchpad
GameFi Launchpad is a specialized platform dedicated mainly to blockchain-based gaming and metaverse projects. It acts as a hub for launching, funding, and supporting projects in the play-to-earn (P2E) and GameFi ecosystem.
Type: Initial Decentralized Offering (IDO).
Number of IDOs: 96 (by Cryptorank)
Popular Categories: Play-to-earn games, AI, RWA.
Total Raised: $17.02M (by Cryptorank)
Mechanism: Focused on gaming and metaverse projects with unique staking and reward systems for investors.
Major Projects Launched
- Step Hero: A play-to-earn role-playing game (RPG).
- MetaGods: An action RPG with blockchain integration.
- Kaby Arena: A free-to-play turn-based strategy game.
Supported Chains
- Binance Smart Chain (BSC).
- Ethereum (ETH).
- Polygon (MATIC).
- Solana (SOL).
Ape Terminal Launchpad
The platform prioritizes a user-friendly experience, transparency, and tailored support for startups. Ape Terminal mainly assesses the potential of secondary liquidity of the token being offered. This assessment considers the narrative, project’s marketing resources, and distribution resources. The product associated with the token is also considered but there is greater emphasis on community growth measures.
Type: Initial DEX Offering (IDO).
Number of Token Sales: 30+ successful launches.
Popular Categories: DeFi, NFT marketplaces, utility tokens, and cross-chain solutions.
Amount Raised*: $7.5 M+
Participants*: 521,459
* based on data published on https://www.apeterminal.io/ (01/2025)
Mechanism: Focus on simplified fundraising and strong community engagement, offering tools for tracking project progress and performance.
Specialization: Versatile launchpad supporting a wide variety of blockchain projects beyond just gaming or DeFi.
Major Projects Launched
- StarHeros
- AIT Protocol
- K9 Finance
Supported Chains
- Binance Smart Chain (BSC).
- Ethereum (ETH).
- Polygon (MATIC).
- Avalanche (AVAX).
How to Choose the Right Launchpad for Your Token
Here are some factors to consider when choosing the launchpad:
- Project Compatibility: Ensure the launchpad aligns with your project type and target audience. Platforms like GameFi specialize in gaming tokens, while others, like DAO Maker, cater to community-driven initiatives.
- Supported Blockchains: Confirm that the launchpad supports the blockchain your project is built on.
- Track Record: Review the platform’s history of successful launches. High-performing launchpads often have a proven system for attracting investors.
- Tokenomics and Fees: Check out the platform’s fee structure and its impact on your project’s budget.
- Community Reach: Opt for a launchpad with a strong and engaged user base to ensure visibility and participation.
- Technical and Marketing Support: Look for platforms that offer advisory services and marketing resources to boost your token’s visibility.
- Evaluate Investor Demographics on the Platform
Tips for a Successful Token Launch
Launching a token requires meticulous planning and execution. Here are some essential tips:
- Build a Strong Foundation: Develop a clear use case, solid tokenomics, and a reliable roadmap.
- Engage Your Community Early: Use social media, AMAs, and airdrops to build excitement before the launch.
- Ensure Compliance: Understand the legal requirements for token offerings in your target markets.
- Optimize for Liquidity: Work with your launchpad and market makers to ensure liquidity and healthy trading post-launch.
- Leverage Analytics: Track performance metrics like trading volume and holder distribution to refine your strategy.
Liquidity At The Start
Liquidity is essential in crypto trading, especially during the first listing. High liquidity boosts investor confidence, creates a more attractive market presence, and sets the foundation for sustainable price discovery and long-term market stability.
Empirica supports token debuts on centralized and decentralized exchanges with market making services. Let’s talk about how we can support your token launch.
Future Trends in Crypto Launchpads
Increasing demand for IDOs reflects a shift toward greater transparency and decentralization. Launchpads are expanding their capabilities to support multiple blockchains, making it easier for projects to access diverse audiences. More launchpads are incorporating mechanisms like vesting schedules and insurance to protect investors.
Vesting schedules release tokens to investors gradually over time rather than all at once. This prevents large sell-offs immediately after the token is listed, which could crash the price.
Insurance mechanisms protect investors in case the project fails to deliver or suffers from unforeseen issues. This increases trust in your project and its launchpad. But projects may need to contribute to the insurance pool or agree to specific terms, such as milestone-based funding, which could add complexity but ensures better risk management.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Token Launchpads
What is the difference between an IDO and an IEO?
The main difference between an Initial DEX Offering (IDO) and an Initial Exchange Offering (IEO) lies in the platform used for launching and managing the token sale. IEO is hosted by a centralized exchange (CEX), while IDO is fully decentralized; no intermediary, as smart contracts handle token sales and distribution.
How do launchpads help with token sales?
They provide infrastructure, marketing, investor access, and sometimes technical and advisory support.
How do I choose the best launchpad for my token project?
Evaluate the platform’s track record, supported chains, audience size, fees, and suitability for your token type and project category.
Do launchpads support specific blockchain networks?
Yes, each launchpad supports different chains like Ethereum, BSC, Solana, or Polygon. Check if your token’s blockchain is compatible with the launchpad.
What fees are involved in using a launchpad?
Fees vary and can include listing fees, a percentage of raised funds, or a combination of both.
How does a token sale on a launchpad work?
The project submits an application, undergoes due diligence, and if approved, sets parameters (price, cap, timeline) for the token sale. Investors then participate during the sale period.
What criteria do launchpads use to approve projects?
Most platforms assess tokenomics, the development team, roadmap, market potential, and the utility of the token.
Can I define a token vesting schedule for investors?
Yes, many launchpads allow you to implement vesting schedules to release tokens gradually, which can stabilize prices post-launch.
What level of marketing support does a launchpad provide?
Some launchpads assist with promotions, while others expect the project to handle marketing. This varies widely across platforms.
Can a launchpad help prevent token price volatility?
Some launchpads offer vesting schedules, staking programs, and liquidity management solutions to reduce volatility.
How do launchpads attract investors?
Launchpads often have an existing user base, reputation, and tools like staking requirements to ensure active investor participation.
Are there any security guarantees for token sales?
Established launchpads perform audits and KYC checks, but the security level depends on the platform and project.
Do launchpads offer insurance or refunds for investors?
Some platforms offer investor protection mechanisms, such as insurance or buyback options, to increase confidence in the token sale.
What analytics or reporting tools do launchpads provide?
Many launchpads offer insights into token sale performance, investor demographics, and post-launch metrics.
Can I conduct a private token sale before the public launch?
Yes, some platforms support private or seed rounds before the main public sale.
Thanks for reading! See you in the next article!
Anna Waszak
Crypto Researcher at Empirica
With over 20 years of experience researching and writing about IT technologies, I value simplicity and aim to explain complex concepts in a way that sparks the imagination. I craft my crypto articles to be easy to understand while preserving their substantive content.
