- Chainlink will end Build token rewards, with the final reward claims closing on July 7, 2026.
- Future Build partnerships will use commercial agreements with fees paid in LINK or convertible liquid assets.
- The strategy shift aims to support long-term ecosystem growth through the Chainlink Reserve and new funding models.
Chainlink is changing one of its long-running ecosystem initiatives as it adjusts how it supports early and mid-stage projects. According to Chainlink Labs, the Build program will move away from project-token payment arrangements, while existing agreements are being concluded and replaced with new commercial structures. The changes also bring an end to Build-related token rewards, with claims closing on July 7, 2026.
Build Program Reaches New Stage
The update marks a shift for a program that has supported more than 80 projects since launch. According to Chainlink Labs, Build provided technical assistance, strategic guidance, ecosystem connections, and market visibility to participating teams.
At the same time, the initiative became closely tied to the Chainlink Rewards program. Through that program, eligible LINK stakers gained access to tokens from participating Build projects.
Chainlink Labs said approximately $20 million worth of Build project tokens became available through the rewards initiative. However, the organization said changing market conditions and evolving project funding models prompted a review of the program’s structure.
As a result, the ecosystem is moving toward a different economic model. That transition forms the next phase of the strategy.
New Agreements Focus on LINK
According to Chainlink Labs, future arrangements will focus on commercial agreements involving fees paid in LINK. The company also said agreements may involve other liquid assets that can be converted into LINK.
Meanwhile, Chainlink Labs stated that new agreements will be established individually based on a project’s historical participation in Build. Existing Build arrangements are now being wound down as those new structures take shape.
The organization added that proceeds from future agreements are expected to convert programmatically into LINK. Those funds are expected to support network growth initiatives, including the Chainlink Reserve.
Rewards Program Claims End July 7
Alongside the broader restructuring, Chainlink confirmed that the latest season of Chainlink Rewards will be the final round tied to Build project tokens. Claims for those rewards will remain open until July 7, 2026. After that date, Build-related token distributions will end.
Chainlink Labs also said product and engineering resources currently assigned to the Rewards program will shift elsewhere. Those resources will instead support economic initiatives that serve the wider Chainlink community.
Meanwhile, the organization said it will continue working with projects as it refines future ecosystem growth programs and support models.
