Chainlink is ending token rewards under its Build program, marking a strategic pivot toward commercial agreements that prioritize payments in LINK or other liquid assets. The final round of rewards claims will close on July 7, 2026, after which Build-related token distributions will cease entirely.
Since its launch, the Build program has supported over 80 early and mid-stage projects with technical assistance, strategic guidance, and market visibility. It has also served as a pipeline for Chainlink Rewards, through which eligible LINK stakers gained exposure to tokens from participating projects. According to Chainlink Labs, approximately $20 million worth of project tokens became available via this initiative.
However, Chainlink Labs noted that evolving market conditions and project funding models prompted a review of the program’s structure. As a result, future Build partnerships will no longer rely on token allocations. Instead, agreements will be structured around commercial fees paid in LINK or convertible liquid assets, with proceeds programmatically converted into LINK to support network growth initiatives—including the Chainlink Reserve.
The transition is framed not as a wind-down, but as a monetization refinement. Existing Build arrangements are being concluded, and new individually tailored agreements will be established based on a project’s historical participation. Meanwhile, product and engineering resources previously dedicated to the Rewards program will be redirected toward broader community-focused economic initiatives.
