We want to start by reiterating our support for the Gaming Catalyst Program, and we remain committed to seeing it succeed. However, communication and financial transparency has been insufficient, which is unacceptable given the scale, visibility, and unprecedented level of DAO investment involved.
The current reports, outside of the most recent update, read more like brief notes rather than the comprehensive updates expected for an initiative of this scale. Standardizing monthly reports and determining what financial and legal information should/can be shared with the DAO would increase trust and transparency for all parties.
Additionally, there is a notable discrepancy regarding the GCP bylaws being dated February 19th 2025, despite the entity being stated as established in July 2024. While this was recently addressed, more proactive and clear communication is necessary to prevent speculation.
Delays and setbacks are inevitable, but failing to communicate them transparently erodes credibility and leads to negative assumptions. Proactive communication is essential, even when the updates are not all positive.
It is worth highlighting that delegates have consistently voiced the need for more comprehensive updates rather than fewer. Suggestions to improve communication have included newsletters and monthly forum updates.
L2Beat made this clear in May 2024, during the GCP Tally vote, stating:
“However, we know that with this amount of funding, the program is taking on an enormous responsibility for the entire ecosystem, as it will set the standards for proper investment decision-making and future accountability and oversight. We already declare that we will pay close attention to its execution and reporting, ensuring that the DAO remains informed and in control of the overall direction of the program.”
Furthermore, in the December 2024 update, Djinn wrote:
“As per feedback from delegates, we are reviewing supplemental communication methods to keep the community informed, including: monthly newsletters, monthly forum updates, quarterly ‘State of Gaming’ or community-oriented gaming events with GCP updates included, live GCP presentations at major conferences (EthCC, Devcon, etc).”
Lastly, we are pleased to see in the latest update that a DAO liaison has been appointed to address communication issues and that a content strategist will be hired.
Is this arrangement within the scope of Castle’s existing ARDC work or will this be a line item on the GCP budget?
We recommend also bringing on a corporate financial expert, preferably with experience in the gaming or venture industry, to provide the detailed financial reporting the DAO, as an investor, would expect from an initiative of this scale. R3gen Finance could be a possible candidate for this role.
To recap, the DAO needs a more robust, consistent, and transparent reporting cadence moving forward. This includes detailed and professional financial reporting, clear communication about typical delays and setbacks, and tighter feedback loops between the GCP Council and the DAO. This is essential for maintaining trust and ensuring alignment with the broader community.