Below is Messari Protocol Services’ ARDC V2 application. A special thank you to @Immutablelawyer and Axis Advisory for leading this initiative. We are excited about the opportunity to further contribute to the growth and success of the Arbitrum community.
Applicant Information
- Name of Applicant & Applicant’s Representative (If applicable):
- Messari Protocol Services
- Telegram Handle (if applicable): @ jackpurdy @ alex_barry22
- LinkedIn Profile (if applicable): Messari | LinkedIn
- The role being applied for (choose one): Research Working Member
- Hourly Rate (in USDC): $145/hour
Our blended hourly rate of $145 reflects the expertise and resources required to deliver exceptional research and insights for the ArbitrumDAO. This rate incorporates contributions from our specialized team:
- Research Analysts (60%) at $130/hour
- Data Engineers (25%) at $160/hour
- Project Managers (15%) at $100/hour
Additionally, we are pleased to offer Marketing support complimentary, typically billed at $100/hour, as part of our commitment to providing maximum value to the ArbitrumDAO if desired by the community.
This rate is competitive and aligns with industry standards for high-quality research and data-driven insights. It reflects Messari’s dedication to delivering impactful, timely, and resource-efficient contributions to the DAO.
Background & Skills
Please provide a brief overview of your experience in the digital asset industry, particularly within the Ethereum & Arbitrum Ecosystems. Include your involvement in any relevant projects or contributions to the ArbitrumDAO, or other Ecosystems.
Messari: Expertise in Crypto Research and the Arbitrum Ecosystem
Messari is a leader in market intelligence, research, and data analytics for the digital asset industry, with deep expertise in Layer 2 ecosystems like Arbitrum. Research is in our DNA—we were pioneers in crypto research, building a trusted brand since 2019. This foundation has allowed us to attract the best talent in the industry, enabling us to deliver exceptional insights and analysis. Over the years, our team of 130 crypto-natives have supported nearly 100 projects, including base-layer protocols, DeFi, gaming, interoperability, and scaling solutions, providing deep technical research, onchain financial reporting, incentives analysis, and more.
Experience with Arbitrum
Messari has closely analyzed Arbitrum’s rise as a leading Layer 2 solution, publishing insights on its rollup technology, cost efficiency, and ecosystem growth. Our work highlights Arbitrum’s key role in advancing Ethereum scalability and driving adoption.
Key contributions include:
- Deep Dives into Ecosystem Metrics: Research on DeFi, developer activity, and user growth within Arbitrum.
- Governance-Focused Analytics: Tailored insights to support informed decision-making for projects building on Arbitrum.
Our real-time data and in-depth analysis help stakeholders identify trends, make governance decisions, and foster adoption of Arbitrum-powered applications.
Strategic Alignment
Messari’s track record in Ethereum analytics enhances our ability to contextualize Arbitrum’s role in the broader ecosystem. This unique positioning allows us to deliver targeted, high-impact value to ArbitrumDAO and its community.
Relevant Examples of Our Work
Below, we provide specific examples of our work within the Arbitrum and Ethereum ecosystem to showcase our capabilities and the tangible impact we have delivered:
State of SCPs Q2 2024
The Road Ahead for Rollups and EIP4844
2023 Arbitrum Governance Report
The Efficacy of Token Incentive Models
State of Ethereum Q2 2024
State of Polygon Q3 2024
Polygon Ecosystem Analysis
Incentives Analysis: Uniswap v3 on Optimism
Messari regularly publishes expert analysis on the Arbitrum ecosystem and broader blockchain trends through our subscription research brand, demonstrating our deep industry knowledge and trusted reputation. Highlights include reports such as Inside the Arbitrum Ecosystem Boom, Arbitrum Goes Into Arbitration, Arbitrum STIP Allocations, and The Modular Blockchain Landscape, all of which showcase our ability to deliver actionable insights to stakeholders across the ecosystem.
Explain how your skills align with the role you are applying for and describe your methodology for fulfilling your duties. How will these skills help you effectively contribute to the ArbitrumDAO?
Messari’s Skills and Methodology for Supporting ArbitrumDAO
Messari’s expertise in blockchain research, data analytics, and governance aligns seamlessly with the needs of ArbitrumDAO. We deliver actionable insights, foster transparency, and drive community engagement, ensuring the DAO’s continued success.
Skills Aligned with the Role:
- Comprehensive Research Expertise:
Messari analysts each have deep sector expertise enabling them to produce detailed, accessible reports on blockchain ecosystems. Our deep dives into Ethereum Layer 2s, including Arbitrum, have informed strategic decisions for governance and development. - Data-Driven Insights:
Using proprietary tools and a robust data infrastructure maintained by our dedicated data engineering team, we analyze user adoption, transaction activity, and ecosystem metrics. This infrastructure ensures reliable, real-time insights that empower stakeholders to evaluate DeFi protocols and make data-backed governance decisions effectively. - Governance-Focused Analysis:
Messari supports DAOs by analyzing proposals and offering actionable recommendations that drive participation and efficiency. Our dedicated Intel team monitors and reports on key events 24/7, ensuring DAOs stay informed about critical developments and can make timely, well-informed decisions. - Clear Communication & Engagement:
Messari creates public-facing resources that simplify complex data for diverse audiences, ensuring broader understanding and participation. Aligned with our mission to provide transparency to the crypto community, we empower stakeholders to make better, more informed decisions.
Methodology:
- Stakeholder Needs Assessment:
We identify priorities across developers, community members, and investors to ensure our work addresses key challenges. - Ecosystem Mapping:
Our tools highlight growth opportunities and challenges within the Arbitrum ecosystem, focusing on areas like DeFi and NFTs. - Holistic Research:
Combining onchain data with qualitative insights, we deliver reports that guide governance decisions and resource allocation. - Feedback Integration:
We collaborate with governance teams to adapt deliverables based on real-time input, ensuring relevance and impact.
Contribution to ArbitrumDAO:
- Empowering Governance: Leveraging the power of the Messari platform and our trusted brand, we provide data-backed tools that enable stakeholders to evaluate proposals, monitor ecosystem health, and allocate resources effectively.
- Community Engagement: Our accessible insights promote informed participation across the DAO, fostering transparency and collaboration.
- Ecosystem Growth: By identifying emerging opportunities, we help the DAO allocate resources strategically, driving growth and innovation.
- Sustainability: We prioritize initiatives with long-term impact by tracking governance outcomes and aligning them with the DAO’s broader goals.
Messari’s track record and methodologies position us as a reliable partner for ArbitrumDAO, delivering insights and tools that drive growth and transparency.
Motivation
What motivates you to join ARDC, and what do you aim to achieve as a Working Member?
Messari’s Motivation and Goals as an ARDC Working Member
Messari is motivated to join ARDC to drive the long-term success of the Arbitrum ecosystem. Our passion lies in fostering transparency, empowering informed decision-making, and enabling ecosystems like Arbitrum to achieve their full potential through actionable insights and community engagement.
Motivation to Join ARDC
- Commitment to Arbitrum’s Vision:
Arbitrum’s innovative approach to Layer 2 scaling is pivotal for Ethereum and Web3. We aim to support this vision by delivering data-driven insights that address scalability challenges while preserving decentralization and security. - Shared Values:
ARDC’s emphasis on community-driven governance aligns with our belief in transparency as a foundation for trust and growth. Messari is dedicated to providing research that benefits the entire ecosystem. - Enhancing Ecosystem Growth:
Arbitrum’s vibrant ecosystem inspires us to uncover opportunities and provide tools to support sustainable growth and innovation.
Goals as a Working Member
- Empower Governance:
Deliver high-quality research and analytics to equip decision-makers with tools for evaluating proposals and allocating resources effectively. - Drive Community Participation:
Create accessible content that bridges the gap between technical data and actionable insights, fostering active engagement in ARDC governance. - Promote Sustainability:
Identify opportunities and challenges to ensure the ecosystem remains competitive and thrives long-term. - Enhance Collaboration:
Develop resources and foster dialogue to strengthen community ownership and collaboration across stakeholders.
Messari shares ARDC’s commitment to transparency and innovation. As a Working Member, we will amplify the DAO’s impact through clear, actionable research and empower the community to shape Arbitrum’s future.
Research Initiatives
Describe your experience conducting research-oriented initiatives within the digital asset industry, more specifically (and if applicable), research related to the Arbitrum tech-stack. Explain how your previous experience can translate to an added value contribution to the ARDC & the ArbitrumDAO.
Messari’s Research Expertise and Contribution to ArbitrumDAO
Messari has a proven track record of conducting research-oriented initiatives across the digital asset industry, with a focus on Ethereum and Layer 2 solutions like Arbitrum. Our research combines quantitative analysis and qualitative insights to inform governance, enhance transparency, and drive ecosystem growth.
Relevant Experience:
- Arbitrum Ecosystem Research:
We’ve analyzed Arbitrum’s rollup technology, scalability, and ecosystem adoption, demonstrating its leadership in reducing costs and improving transaction throughput. These insights help stakeholders make data-driven decisions. - Layer 2 Scaling Expertise:
Our comparative research on Ethereum Layer 2 solutions, including Arbitrum, Optimism, ZKsync, Mantle, Manta, Boba, and others, highlights scaling dynamics, user adoption, and competitive positioning. This work informs governance and development strategies. - Governance & DAO Research:
Messari has developed governance frameworks and analyzed proposals for multiple DAOs. Our insights have enabled efficient resource allocation and informed decision-making—an approach we aim to extend to ArbitrumDAO. - Ecosystem Mapping:
We’ve mapped Arbitrum’s ecosystem, identifying growth opportunities in DeFi, NFTs, and developer activity. These reports provide actionable insights to stakeholders and guide strategic investments.
Value to ARDC & ArbitrumDAO:
Messari’s methodologies align with ARDC’s mission to support informed governance and sustainable growth. Our contributions will:
- Empower Governance: Provide data-backed insights to help ArbitrumDAO allocate resources effectively.
- Foster Community Engagement: Deliver accessible reports that enable broad participation in governance and decision-making.
- Drive Ecosystem Growth: Highlight trends and opportunities to maintain ArbitrumDAO’s competitive edge.
Referenced Examples:
Messari’s experience is evidenced by our published reports and contributions, including the State of ApeCoin Q3 2024, the State of DeFi Q3 2024, Optimism Incentive Analysis, and Ethereum’s Quarterly Report Q2 2024. These demonstrate our ability to analyze complex ecosystems, deliver actionable insights, and create resources that inform governance and strategic decision-making.
Messari’s expertise and track record uniquely position us to add significant value to ARDC and the ArbitrumDAO, ensuring transparency, growth, and impactful governance support.
Project Management
Describe your project management experience (This could include project management in other ecosystems you have operated in, management of initiatives, etc.)
Messari has extensive project management experience across a variety of blockchain ecosystems, including Ethereum, Cosmos, Solana, and Arbitrum, which demonstrates our ability to deliver complex initiatives effectively and on time. Our track record includes managing large-scale research projects, multi-stakeholder governance initiatives, and data-driven ecosystem analysis.
Research & Reporting Initiatives:
Messari has successfully managed the delivery of ecosystem reports and solutions for some of the largest networks in Web3. For example, we coordinated quarterly reports for Ethereum Layer 2 solutions, including Arbitrum, that involved gathering data from multiple sources, synthesizing insights, and producing actionable recommendations within tight deadlines. Each project required alignment across analysts, data scientists, and client stakeholders to ensure consistent quality and timely delivery.
Governance & DAO Collaboration:
We have managed governance-focused projects for DAOs, providing research that informs proposal development and resource allocation. For instance, our work with decentralized networks like Cosmos and Polkadot involved creating governance frameworks and ecosystem overviews to guide decision-making. These projects required regular communication with DAO contributors, iterative feedback loops, and the ability to adapt deliverables based on stakeholder needs.
Ecosystem Mapping:
Messari has led the development of comprehensive ecosystem maps for emerging protocols. For Arbitrum, we created insights on DeFi, NFT activity, and developer adoption, which required coordinating data collection, analysis, and stakeholder interviews. These deliverables not only informed the community but also provided a foundation for strategic decision-making by governance participants.
Key Strengths in Project Management:
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: We coordinate between analysts, product teams, and external stakeholders seamlessly.
- Agility: Messari adapts dynamically to evolving requirements, ensuring projects meet stakeholders’ needs.
- Timely Execution: We consistently deliver projects within agreed timelines, maintaining a high standard of quality.
Through our proven project management expertise, Messari ensures impactful, timely, and data-driven results that align with the goals of any ecosystem we engage with.
Scope of Work
Outline the tasks and key deliverables you propose, covering one-third of the 6-month term. Demonstrate your understanding of the most pressing needs within the ArbitrumDAO and how your work will support its strategic goals.
Proposed Tasks and Deliverables for ArbitrumDAO
Messari’s work for the first two months of a six-month term will focus on addressing critical needs of the ArbitrumDAO: informed governance, ecosystem transparency, and community engagement.
Tasks and Deliverables:
- Comprehensive Ecosystem Analysis
- Objective: Provide a detailed overview of the Arbitrum ecosystem, identifying key projects, adoption metrics, and growth areas.
- Tasks:
- Aggregate onchain data (transaction volumes, active users).
- Benchmark against other Layer 2 solutions.
- Deliverable: A report with graphics and strategic recommendations for ecosystem growth.
- Governance Framework Review
- Objective: Evaluate the current governance model and propose enhancements to improve efficiency and participation.
- Tasks:
- Analyze existing governance structures and processes.
- Gather feedback from DAO stakeholders.
- Research best practices from other DAOs.
- Deliverable: An evaluative report with actionable recommendations to strengthen governance.
- Treasury Management Assessment
- Objective: Ensure financial sustainability by analyzing treasury allocations, risks, and diversification opportunities.
- Tasks:
- Review historical treasury spending and revenue sources.
- Identify potential risks and mitigation strategies.
- Propose diversification options to enhance financial resilience.
- Deliverable: A comprehensive report on treasury health and strategic recommendations.
- Community Engagement Initiative
- Objective: Increase participation in DAO governance and ecosystem activities.
- Tasks:
- Develop educational content explaining governance processes.
- Host webinars or workshops for community feedback and collaboration.
- Create channels for ongoing community input.
- Deliverable: Educational materials and interactive sessions to foster engagement.
Strategic Alignment with ArbitrumDAO’s Goals:
Messari’s proposed work addresses the DAO’s most pressing needs:
- Informed Governance: Ecosystem analysis and governance framework reviews equip stakeholders to make strategic decisions.
- Transparency and Sustainability: Treasury assessments ensure financial health and long-term viability.
- Community Empowerment: Engagement initiatives build an active, informed DAO community.
Messari’s deep expertise and structured approach ensure impactful deliverables that align with the ArbitrumDAO’s objectives and set a foundation for long-term success.
Please also elaborate as to your capacity to execute, including how you intend to allocate resources for the remaining term, with regard to ad hoc or flexible tasks that the Supervisory Council may put forward. Please also describe how you would plan to satisfy this should the ARDC be extended for an additional 6-month term.
Messari’s Capacity to Execute and Adapt
Messari’s experienced team and operational framework ensure our ability to deliver planned tasks while addressing ad hoc requests from the Supervisory Council efficiently.
Resource Allocation:
- Dedicated Team: Core analysts and project managers oversee deliverables, ensuring adherence to timelines and quality standards.
- Flexible Capacity: Our Protocol Services analyst team is structured to handle fluctuating workloads, enabling us to scale resources up or down on demand to meet project needs efficiently.
- Proprietary Tools: Messari’s analytics and mapping tools streamline workflows and ensure quick turnarounds for both planned and ad hoc initiatives.
Execution Plan for an Additional Term:
Should the ARDC be extended, Messari will scale resources and focus on long-term goals:
- Enhanced Team Capacity: Allocate additional analysts and researchers to handle increased workload without compromising quality.
- Long-Term Research Agenda: Develop a roadmap for multi-term initiatives aligned with strategic ecosystem growth, governance innovation, and treasury sustainability.
- Adaptive Engagement: Maintain continuous communication with the Supervisory Council to ensure deliverables remain aligned with evolving DAO priorities.
Messari’s flexible operations and scalable resources ensure we meet the ARDC’s needs, whether addressing immediate tasks or supporting extended-term objectives. This adaptability positions us as a reliable partner for ArbitrumDAO.
Additional Details
Additional Information Relevant to ArbitrumDAO
Messari offers unmatched value to ArbitrumDAO through its expertise, tools, and tailored solutions that extend beyond traditional research. Our offerings empower governance, enhance ecosystem transparency, and drive long-term growth.
Complimentary Messari Enterprise Licenses
As part of this engagement, Messari will provide complimentary Messari Enterprise Licenses for the first two months (valued at $10,000 per seat annually). These licenses grant ArbitrumDAO core contributors full access to:
- Comprehensive Data: Real-time market data, onchain analytics, and project metrics for strategic decisions.
- Advanced Tools: Customized screeners for analyzing and visualizing Arbitrum’s ecosystem.
- Fundraising Insights: Up-to-date trends on token sales and competitive positioning.
- In-Depth Research: A library of institutional-grade reports on sector trends and network analyses.
This access equips DAO contributors with the tools necessary to evaluate proposals, monitor ecosystem health, and plan strategically.
Value-Added Services
Messari’s capabilities further align with ArbitrumDAO’s needs:
- Custom Research: Tailored insights on governance, Layer 2 scaling, and ecosystem trends.
- Educational Resources: Materials to foster stakeholder engagement and promote transparency.
- Ecosystem Mapping: Comprehensive analysis of growth opportunities in DeFi, gaming, and NFTs.
- Governance Support: Expertise in DAO frameworks to enhance participation and decision-making.
Alignment with ArbitrumDAO Goals
Messari’s mission is to build a thriving and transparent blockchain ecosystem, perfectly aligning with ArbitrumDAO’s objectives:
- Empowering Governance: Actionable data and insights to guide strategic decisions.
- Community Engagement: Resources that foster participation and informed decision-making.
- Sustainability: Identifying and addressing challenges to ensure long-term viability.
Proven Excellence
Messari’s track record with leading protocols, spanning nearly three years, like Ethereum, Cosmos, and Solana demonstrates our ability to deliver impactful results. Our team of analysts, data scientists, and governance experts ensures timely and high-quality deliverables tailored to DAO needs.
Why Messari?
Messari combines domain expertise, proprietary tools, and a deep understanding of blockchain to deliver comprehensive solutions. By offering complimentary licenses and robust support, we empower ArbitrumDAO to thrive.
Messari is committed to driving informed governance, fostering growth, and solidifying ArbitrumDAO’s position as the leading Layer 2 solution. Let us deliver the tools and insights to realize your vision.
Conflict of Interest
Messari has no conflicts of interest that would affect our ability to support the ArbitrumDAO. Our mission is to onboard one billion crypto users by making the industry safer, more transparent, and more accessible. We are committed to helping pioneers navigate the frontier and supporting the people and projects driving the decentralized economy.
We work with top blockchain projects in a fully compliant and regulated manner, maintaining the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and objectivity. Our strict internal policies ensure impartiality in all our research and collaborations.
If a conflict were to arise, we would address it transparently, promptly disclose relevant information, and work collaboratively to resolve it. Messari remains a trusted, mission-aligned partner dedicated to advancing the Arbitrum ecosystem.
Summary
Messari is uniquely positioned to serve as a Research Working Member for the ArbitrumDAO. With an established reputation for delivering high-quality, data-driven research, our expertise aligns directly with the DAO’s needs for informed governance, ecosystem growth, and community engagement.
Key Qualifications:
- Proven Track Record:
Messari has a history of supporting leading blockchain ecosystems, including Ethereum, Cosmos, Solana, and Layer 2 solutions like Arbitrum. Our published research, such as the State of DeFi Q3 2024 and Ethereum Quarterly Report Q2 2024, demonstrates our ability to produce actionable insights that drive strategic decision-making. - Expertise in Layer 2 Ecosystems:
Our deep dives into Arbitrum’s rollup technology and ecosystem dynamics highlight our technical and analytical strengths. We’ve analyzed transaction efficiencies, ecosystem adoption, and governance challenges, equipping us with the knowledge to address pressing DAO needs effectively. - Comprehensive Offerings:
Beyond research, Messari provides advanced tools, and ecosystem mapping that enhance decision-making and engagement. For this engagement, we will offer complimentary Messari Enterprise Licenses for the first two months, valued at $10,000 per seat, enabling DAO members to access our full suite of data, analytics, and research tools. - Specialized Team:
Our team of analysts, data scientists, and governance experts excels in delivering high-impact research under tight deadlines. This operational flexibility ensures we can address both planned deliverables and ad hoc tasks from the Supervisory Council with the same level of quality.
Why Messari is the Right Fit:
- Mission Alignment:
Our mission to onboard one billion crypto users by making the industry safer and more accessible perfectly aligns with ArbitrumDAO’s goals of driving ecosystem growth and empowering its community. - Actionable Insights:
Messari specializes in converting complex data into accessible, actionable insights. This skill is critical for enhancing governance, fostering participation, and ensuring the DAO’s long-term sustainability. - Commitment to Transparency:
Messari has built its reputation on delivering transparent, objective research. We understand the importance of trust in DAO governance and are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in all our work.
Strategic Vision:
Messari envisions a thriving, transparent Arbitrum ecosystem, where informed governance drives sustainable growth. By contributing research on governance frameworks, treasury management, and ecosystem trends, we aim to empower ArbitrumDAO with the tools needed to remain a leader in Layer 2 scaling.
Conclusion:
Messari’s unmatched combination of expertise, resources, and commitment to transparency makes us the ideal partner for ARDC. By leveraging our proven methodologies and innovative tools, we will help the ArbitrumDAO achieve its strategic goals and foster a stronger, more engaged community. We are excited about the opportunity to contribute to the DAO’s continued success and to support its evolution into a model of decentralized governance excellence.