Solana memecoin launchpad Pump.fun has unveiled a $3 million investment arm as a measure to boost startup-ups.
The fund is set to distribute the investment amount among 12 early-stage start-ups. Further, it announced a Build in Public Hackathon, which will fund 12 projects with $250k at $10m valuation.
Introducing the $3,000,000 Build in Public Hackathon
Brought to you by Pump Fund – pump fun’s New Investment Arm
It’s time to completely reimagine how early-stage projects are built and funded.
Learn more 👇 pic.twitter.com/l1TJcxv1J0— Pump.fun (@Pumpfun) January 19, 2026
Pump.fun is trying to flip the usual startup playbook on its head with this hackathon. Instead of chasing VCs, preparing pitch decks, or waiting for judges’ approval, builders are encouraged to ship fast and let the market decide.
The move comes at a time when Pump.fun has tried to garner market attention by either taking up industry acquisitions or by launching products for greater crypto use.
How is the hackathon different?
The hackathon will provide teams with access to funding, guidance from Pump.fun’s founders, and a short, high-energy program focused on execution rather than theory.
The core idea for the platform’s initiative revolves around the idea of “majority’s choice”.
To take part, projects need to be at an early stage, launch a token, and retain at least 10% of the supply, ensuring founders have real skin in the game and stay aligned with their community.
“Participants are encouraged to launch their coin and let real market participation determine whether the project is worth pursuing further, “ the official announcement read.
Pump.fun said in the announcement that if people like the product, they’ll back it early by buying the token. In that sense, users become the startup’s first supporters and validators.
Investment opportunity not limited to crypto start-ups
It is interesting to note that Pump.Fun is open to investing in projects that don’t have a crypto background as well.
The platform made it clear that projects of all kinds, at any stage, and from any industry are welcome.
Hackathon winners to be chosen for long-term potential, not hype
Pump.fun explained that when choosing hackathon winners, they’re more interested in a project’s long-term potential than short-term hype or social media buzz.
The digital platform wants teams that act fast, ship products, and communicate openly with their community.
The real goal of the prize distribution is to focus on real and organic traction, more than connections or flashy marketing.
The platform has also pointed out that many promising ideas never get off the ground in crypto, often blocked by gatekeepers or slow processes.
Pump.Fun’s hackathon is aiming at offering a different path where builders can test, fund, grow their projects openly and provide their concept. Start-ups will likely gain community support without waiting for anyone’s permission, letting ideas succeed on their own merit.