Chainlink and Solana Launch Accelerator Program for Web3 Startups

Chainlink and Solana Team Up to Accelerate Web3 Startups: What It Means for the Future of Onchain Finance

In a major move signaling deeper collaboration in the blockchain space, Chainlink—often called the “standard for onchain finance”—has launched a new initiative called “Build on Solana.” The program is designed to support and accelerate promising Web3 startups that are building on the Solana blockchain while integrating Chainlink’s decentralized services.

This partnership isn’t just about marketing. It brings together two powerful ecosystems—Chainlink, known for powering data and interoperability across blockchains, and Solana, famous for its fast, low-cost transactions. For startup teams selected into the program, it means access to technical mentorship, go-to-market support, and visibility among global blockchain investors and communities.

What Exactly Is “Build on Solana”?

This is a startup accelerator program—similar to what you’d see in Silicon Valley, but tailored for decentralized technology. Run by Chainlink Labs and supported by the Solana Foundation, the program aims to help startups scale effectively by providing:

• Technical mentorship from blockchain experts
• Infrastructure support for building on Solana
• Ecosystem visibility within both Solana and Chainlink communities
• Token distribution tools, such as making native project tokens claimable by LINK stakers (Chainlink’s crypto community)

According to Sheth Sanket, VP of Revenue & Partnerships at Chainlink Labs, the program is about “supporting teams that are building the next generation of onchain applications” by giving them the tools to grow securely and reliably.

Who Can Apply?

Applications are open for the next three months and are being accepted from both early-stage and more mature projects. The organizers are looking for teams that are aligned with the long-term vision of Web3 and that plan to use Chainlink’s services—including:

• CCIP (Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol)
• Data Feeds
• SmartData
• Data Streams
• Chainlink Functions

These are the technologies that enable smart contracts to access real-world data and interact with multiple blockchain networks securely.

Why Solana?

Solana is one of the fastest and most scalable blockchains available today. It’s already being used for everything from NFTs and DeFi to gaming and payments. By aligning with Solana, Chainlink ensures that startups in this program can build apps that are not only decentralized but also fast and user-friendly—critical features if blockchain is ever to go mainstream.

The Solana Foundation is also playing a key role in the program, providing additional developer support, infrastructure credits, and incentives to ensure that these startups have everything they need to succeed.

What’s in It for Chainlink?

This move helps expand the Chainlink network, making its tools more embedded within other ecosystems—especially those that are developer-heavy and innovation-driven like Solana. It also increases the reach of Chainlink’s staking model, where LINK holders can engage with new projects early on through token rewards.

It’s also a strategic answer to growing demand for cross-chain infrastructure—that is, systems that allow blockchains to talk to each other. In a multichain world, interoperability is king, and Chainlink wants to be at the center of it.

Market Context: Can LINK Break Out?

While Chainlink makes big ecosystem moves, traders are watching the LINK token closely. According to popular technical analyst CRYPTOWZRD, the token recently showed indecisive price action, but could be poised for a breakout if it pushes above 15.85 or especially 16.80. A clear breakout could send LINK towards 19.50, and possibly even 30 in the medium term, provided broader market conditions support the move.

However, without strong momentum, the token may continue to trade sideways. LINKBTC—the token’s value relative to Bitcoin—is also at a critical level. If Bitcoin dominance hits resistance, altcoins like LINK may benefit from capital rotation.

Why This Matters

If you’re building in Web3 or looking to invest in its next wave, this program is one to watch. It not only shows where smart money and infrastructure support are flowing—but also signals that real-world utility, developer support, and cross-chain functionality are becoming the core pillars of sustainable blockchain projects.

Chainlink’s deeper integration with Solana could produce some of the next breakout dApps—whether in DeFi, gaming, or digital identity. And for startups, the message is clear: If you’re serious about scaling in Web3, this is your chance to plug into a high-speed network with real backing.