In 2025, hundreds of developers across Africa took their first steps into Bitcoin’s open‑source ecosystem, learning how it works, how to contribute to it, and how to build sustainable careers around it. The Btrust Builders program was designed to move developers from curiosity, to capability, to contribution. This
A practical guide for building and sustaining Bitcoin-only technical communities across the Global South.
Written by Rita Anene For over three years, I've worked as a software developer, building features and solving problems in the familiar rhythm of a 9-to-5 job. But something was missing. I wanted to work on technology that wasn't just functional, but foundational, something that could
$1M+ awarded across 10 initiatives in the first round of 2025 Btrust grants, powering Bitcoin open-source development in the Global South.
In 2025, hundreds of developers across Africa took their first steps into Bitcoin’s open‑source ecosystem, learning how it works, how to contribute to it, and how to build sustainable careers around it. The Btrust Builders program was designed to move developers from curiosity, to capability, to contribution. This
A practical guide for building and sustaining Bitcoin-only technical communities across the Global South.
Global, December 31, 2025 - At Btrust, we know that growing the Bitcoin open-source developer ecosystem starts with creating gateways; spaces where curious builders can connect, learn, experiment, and ultimately take their first steps toward meaningful contribution. These gateways often take the form of events: technical meetups, grassroots workshops, hackathons,
At Btrust, we’ve been fortunate to support developers whose work strengthens the foundations of Bitcoin. Today, we celebrate the journey of Duncan Dean, who joined us as a long-term grantee in April 2024 and whose time with us concluded in August 2025. His contributions extended well beyond code. Over
Africa, December 12, 2025 — We’re excited to recognize six outstanding Bitcoin open-source developers awarded Btrust grants, including four starter grant recipients and two open-source cohort members. Starter Grants The Btrust Starter Grant provides support for software engineers ready to contribute full-time to open-source Bitcoin development. It allows recipients to
Applications are ongoing for the 2026 ₿OSS (Bitcoin Open-Source Software) Challenge, kicking off January 12, 2026.
Written by Rita Anene For over three years, I've worked as a software developer, building features and solving problems in the familiar rhythm of a 9-to-5 job. But something was missing. I wanted to work on technology that wasn't just functional, but foundational, something that could
Leadership transitions mark important moments in any organization’s journey, and today, we’re excited to share one of our own. In July, we put out a call for a Chief Executive Officer. After receiving multiple strong applications and going through a long, thoughtful, and rigorous selection process, we’re
In the world of Bitcoin development, talent is everywhere. Yet, for many developers in the Global South, especially across Africa, reaching the highest levels of contribution isn’t just about skill or dedication—it’s about access. Opportunities to meet global collaborators, speak at conferences, and work alongside seasoned peers
Africa, October 14, 2025 — We’re excited to recognize six outstanding Bitcoin open-source developers awarded Btrust grants, including four starter grant recipients and two open-source cohort members. The four starter grant recipients are all graduates of the 2025 Btrust Builders pathways. The program offers structured tracks that cover everything from
Written by Itoro Ukpong This story details my transition from an enterprise software engineer to a full-time Bitcoin open-source developer. It covers my journey through blockchain exploration, the Btrust programs, and the key steps that enabled me to secure a grant for open-source work, offering insights for others interested in
Behind every successful Btrust Builders cohort is a team of dedicated faculty members who go above and beyond to shape the learning journey. This year, our faculty were a monumental part of our courses, from developing the curriculum to walking side by side with participants through our various pathways. What