Today, March 20, 2025, marks the launch of the first Solana Futures ETFs in the United States. Volatility Shares LLC is introducing two exchange-traded funds (ETFs) tracking Solana (SOL) futures: the Volatility Shares Solana ETF (ticker: SOLZ), which follows Solana futures, and the Volatility Shares 2X Solana ETF (ticker: SOLT), which offers leveraged 2x exposure. This debut follows the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) Group’s introduction of Solana futures trading on March 17, 2025, and is seen as a significant step toward mainstream adoption of Solana in traditional finance.

Solana futures are financial contracts that allow investors to speculate on or hedge against the future price of Solana (SOL), a popular cryptocurrency known for its high-speed blockchain. These are derivative products, meaning their value is derived from the underlying asset—in this case, SOL—without requiring ownership of the actual cryptocurrency. A futures contract is an agreement to buy or sell an asset (like SOL) at a predetermined price on a specific date in the future. Solana futures, traders commit to either purchasing or selling SOL at that set price when the contract expires.

Futures often allow traders to use leverage, meaning they can control a large position with a relatively small amount of capital (e.g., 2x or more). For example, the Volatility Shares 2X Solana ETF (SOLT) aims to deliver twice the daily price movement of SOL futures. Futures can be cash-settled (where no actual SOL changes hands, just the difference in price) or physically settled (where SOL is delivered). Most crypto futures ETFs, like those launched today, are cash-settled based on a reference index of SOL’s price.

Contracts have a set expiration date (e.g., monthly or quarterly). At expiration, the contract settles based on SOL’s price. However, traders can roll over contracts to a new expiration date to maintain their position. With the CME Group launching SOL futures on March 17, 2025, these contracts trade on a regulated exchange, offering transparency and oversight, unlike some decentralized crypto platforms. If you expect SOL’s price to rise, you “go long” by buying a futures contract.

If SOL’s price increases by expiration, you profit from the difference between the contract price and the higher market price. If you predict a price drop, you “go short” by selling a futures contract. If SOL’s price falls, you profit by buying it back at a lower price. Investors holding SOL can use futures to protect against price drops. For example, if you own SOL and fear a decline, you short a futures contract to offset potential losses.

The ETFs launched today—Volatility Shares Solana ETF (SOLZ) and 2X Solana ETF (SOLT)—track the performance of these futures contracts rather than SOL’s spot price. SOLZ aims to mirror the daily performance of SOL futures, while SOLT seeks 2x the daily return, amplifying both gains and losses. These ETFs don’t hold SOL directly; instead, they invest in futures contracts listed on exchanges like the CME, making them accessible via traditional brokerage accounts.

They allow traditional investors to gain exposure to SOL without navigating crypto wallets or exchanges. Trading on the CME and being offered as ETFs brings Solana into a regulated financial framework, boosting credibility. Futures cater to both speculators betting on price swings and institutions managing crypto exposure. Solana futures are a bridge between the crypto world and traditional finance, offering a way to bet on or protect against SOL’s price movements in a structured, regulated environment. Today’s ETF launch is a milestone in that integration.

Starting a big project can be exciting, but securing the right funding can be challenging. Whether you are launching a business, expanding an existing one, or working on a personal passion project, finding the money to make it happen is crucial. Many people struggle with knowing where to start or what options are available. Choosing the right funding source depends on your project’s needs and how much effort you are willing to put into the process.

In this blog, we will share practical ways to secure funding for your next big project. We will cover different options, how they work, and what you need to consider before making a decision.

Explore Personal Savings and Investments

Using your savings is one of the simplest ways to fund a project. If you have been setting money aside, now may be the time to use it. This method gives you complete control over your project since you do not have to rely on outside investors or lenders. It also means you won’t owe anyone money, which can reduce stress in the long run. However, it is important to evaluate how much of your savings you can afford to use without putting yourself in financial trouble. Having a backup plan for unexpected costs is a good idea.

If your savings are not enough, consider the investments you have made. Selling stocks, bonds, or other assets can provide extra funding. Some people also take out a home equity loan or withdraw from retirement funds, but these options come with risks. It is essential to think carefully before making a decision, as you want to secure funding without harming your financial future.

Apply for a Business or Personal Loan

A loan is a common way to secure funding for big projects. Banks, credit unions, and online lenders offer different types of loans depending on your needs. A business loan is great for entrepreneurs looking to start or expand a company. They typically require a solid business plan and proof of income or creditworthiness. A personal loan, on the other hand, can be used for various projects, including creative or personal ventures.

Before applying for a loan, compare interest rates, repayment terms, and fees. Some have strict repayment schedules, so be sure you can meet them. A government-backed loan, such as a SBA loan, offers lower interest rates and better terms for businesses. If you have good credit and a steady income, you might qualify for better loan options, making this a reliable way to secure funding.

Look for Grants and Government Funding

Grants are an excellent way to fund a project without having to repay money. Many organizations and government agencies offer grants for businesses, research, education, and creative projects. These funds are often given based on need, project impact, or industry. Applying for a grant takes time and effort because you need to meet specific requirements and submit detailed proposals. However, if you qualify, this can be a valuable source of funding.

Government funding is another option worth exploring. Federal and state programs support small businesses, startups, and community initiatives. Some grants are designed for specific industries, such as technology, healthcare, and environmental projects. Researching and applying for grants early can increase your chances of securing funding. Since grants are competitive, having a well-prepared application is crucial.

Consider Crowdfunding Platforms

Crowdfunding allows you to raise money from a large group of people, usually through online platforms. Websites like Kickstarter, GoFundMe, and Indiegogo let individuals and businesses present their projects and request financial support. In return, backers may receive rewards, products, or recognition. Crowdfunding is a great option for creative, community-driven, or innovative projects. It also helps validate your idea by showing that people are interested in what you are creating.

To run a successful crowdfunding campaign, you need a clear and engaging pitch. Explain your project, why it matters, and how the funds will be used. Sharing your campaign on social media and other networks can help attract more backers. While crowdfunding can be a powerful tool, it requires effort in marketing and engagement to reach your funding goal.

Seek Out Angel Investors or Venture Capital

Angel investors and venture capital firms provide funding to businesses with growth potential. Angel investors are individuals who use their own money to invest in startups or promising projects. They often provide mentorship and guidance in addition to funding. Venture capital firms, on the other hand, invest larger amounts in exchange for equity in a company. These investors look for high-growth opportunities and expect a return on their investment.

To attract investors, you need a strong business plan, market research, and a clear strategy for how your project will succeed. Investors want to see the potential for growth and profit. While this funding option can provide significant financial support, it also means sharing control of your project. Make sure you understand the terms before accepting investment offers.

Explore Partnerships and Sponsorships

Partnering with businesses or securing sponsorships can be another way to fund your project. Companies often invest in projects that align with their brand or values. Sponsorships work well for events, community projects, and creative ventures. In exchange for funding, sponsors may request brand visibility, advertisements, or partnerships in your project.

To secure a partnership or sponsorship, research companies that fit your project’s goals. Reach out with a professional proposal explaining how their support benefits both parties. Building relationships with potential sponsors can increase your chances of securing funding. Being transparent about your project’s goals and impact will help attract the right partners.

Raise Money Through Pre-Sales or Early Access

If your project involves creating a product, service, or event, offering pre-sales can help raise funds. Pre-selling allows customers to buy in advance, giving you the money needed to complete your project. This method is commonly used for books, courses, software, and other creative projects. It also helps test demand and build excitement before launch.

Offering early access or exclusive perks can encourage people to support your project early. Creating a sense of urgency or limited-time offers can boost sales. To succeed with this approach, make sure to deliver on promises and maintain clear communication with supporters.

In conclusion, securing funding for a big project requires careful planning and effort. Whether you use personal savings, apply for a loan, seek grants, or explore alternative methods like crowdfunding and sponsorships, each option comes with pros and cons. Choosing the right funding source depends on your project’s needs and financial situation.

The future of onchain and stablecoin payments in Africa looks incredibly promising, driven by the continent’s unique economic challenges and its rapid adoption of digital technologies. Africa is poised to become a global leader in leveraging blockchain-based solutions like onchain payments and stablecoins to address issues such as financial exclusion, high remittance costs, currency volatility, and inefficiencies in cross-border trade.

With only about 34% of adults in Africa having formal bank accounts, traditional financial systems leave millions underserved. Stablecoins, which operate on blockchain networks (onchain), require only an internet connection and a digital wallet—bypassing the need for banks. This makes them accessible to the unbanked, especially in rural areas where mobile phone penetration is high (around 75%). Many African currencies suffer from high inflation rates—averaging 14% annually across the continent—and foreign exchange shortages.

Stablecoins, typically pegged to stable assets like the US dollar, offer a reliable alternative for storing value and conducting transactions without the risk of sudden depreciation. Africa faces the world’s highest remittance fees, averaging 8% of the transaction value, despite nearly $100 billion in annual inflows. Stablecoins can slash these costs significantly—sometimes to as low as 0.5-1%—while enabling near-instant settlements, making them a game-changer for the diaspora sending money home.

With 42 different currencies and fragmented payment systems, intra-African trade is costly and slow. Onchain payments using stablecoins provide a unified, efficient, and low-cost solution, running on global blockchain rails that settle transactions quickly and securely. Countries like Nigeria and Kenya are already seeing massive uptake. Nigeria, for instance, ranks second globally in crypto adoption and had $59 billion in cryptocurrency transactions between July 2023 and June 2024, much of it driven by stablecoins like USDT and USDC.

In Kenya, platforms like M-Pesa are exploring stablecoin integration for remittances and payments. South Africa is paving the way with a progressive regulatory environment, having classified crypto as a financial product and approved licenses for 59 crypto businesses by March 2024. Locally pegged stablecoins like ZARP and ZARC are already in use, and the government is working on specific stablecoin regulations, potentially making it the first African nation to do so.

Companies like Yellow Card, a pan-African fintech, are building stablecoin-based infrastructure, connecting millions of users across 20 countries to local banks and mobile money providers. This is enabling businesses and individuals to leapfrog traditional systems. Africa’s widespread use of mobile money (e.g., M-Pesa in East Africa) pairs naturally with stablecoins, creating seamless on/off ramps between fiat and digital currencies. This synergy is driving adoption for everyday transactions, from bill payments to retail purchases.

As internet access and smartphone use continue to grow—coupled with a young, tech-savvy population (median age of 20)—stablecoins could become a mainstream payment method. Predictions suggest that by 2030, stablecoin transactions could account for a significant portion of Africa’s $3.1 trillion GDP. While regulatory frameworks are still maturing, proactive steps in countries like Nigeria and South Africa signal a shift toward embracing stablecoins with consumer protections in place. The European Union’s MiCA framework could inspire similar harmonized regulations across African nations, boosting trust and investment.

Beyond USD-pegged coins, we may see more fiat-pegged stablecoins tied to local currencies (like Nigeria’s planned Naira stablecoin) or even regional stablecoins to facilitate AfCFTA (African Continental Free Trade Area) transactions, reducing reliance on foreign currencies. Stablecoins are already fueling decentralized finance (DeFi) in Africa, where Sub-Saharan Africa leads globally in adoption. This could expand into lending, savings, and supply chain financing, empowering small businesses and individuals with tools previously inaccessible.

As stablecoin transaction volumes grow—$2.6 trillion settled globally in the first half of 2024 alone—Africa could become a hub for onchain payments, attracting international businesses and investors seeking efficient entry into its high-growth markets. Reliable internet and electricity remain barriers in some regions, though mobile networks are rapidly bridging this gap. Uncertainty and fragmented policies could slow adoption if not addressed collaboratively across borders.

The future of onchain and stablecoin payments in Africa is not just about technology—it’s about solving real-world problems with practical, scalable solutions. By offering a cheaper, faster, and more inclusive alternative to traditional finance, stablecoins could transform how Africans save, spend, and trade, both locally and globally. With the right mix of innovation, regulation, and infrastructure, Africa might not only catch up but leapfrog other regions in building a blockchain-powered financial ecosystem.