Overview of CypherTank: $850K Total Prize Pool
Plan B Network, in collaboration with the Plan B VC Fund, has launched CypherTank, the first Bitcoin-specific pitch competition. Scheduled to take place during the Plan B Forum in Lugano, Switzerland in October 2025, the contest offers over $850,000 in total prizes. Its primary goal is to spotlight innovative Bitcoin projects and position Lugano as a global Bitcoin hub. The name CypherTank reflects a commitment to defending and advancing Bitcoin's cryptographic foundation.
Competition Structure and Prize Breakdown
CypherTank will feature 11 selected projects, comprising 8 for-profit and 3 nonprofit entities. They will compete in categories such as on-chain Bitcoin technology, Lightning Network applications, peer-to-peer innovations, and solutions for emerging markets. For-profit winners will receive a $450,000 pre-authorized investment via a capped SAFE from the Plan B VC Fund, along with $200,000 in incubation and acceleration services at the Lugano Plan B Hub. Nonprofit projects will compete in categories including human rights protection, scientific breakthroughs, and Lugano Bitcoin-Citadel initiatives. The winning nonprofits will share a $200,000 non-dilutive grant from the Plan B Foundation, with potential additional grants from the judges.
Judging Panel and Event Timeline
The competition boasts a stellar lineup of judges: Paolo Ardoino (CEO of Tether), Adam Back (CEO of Blockstream), Matt Odell (Ten31), Mike Jarmuz (Lightning Ventures), and Preston Pysh (Ego Death). These industry titans will evaluate projects in multiple rounds. Semifinals are scheduled for October 22, 2025, and finals on October 27, 2025. Notably, CypherTank is the first Bitcoin-only pitch series to film real founder–investor negotiations, combined with judge panel scoring. Episodes will be distributed globally on YouTube, Rumble, and X by the end of 2025.
How to Apply and Strategic Significance
Applications are now open for both for-profit startups and nonprofit projects. CypherTank represents a significant step in Bitcoin's evolution, offering not only funding but also a global platform for showcasing innovation. The competition's structure, blending investment opportunities with worldwide visibility, positions it as a potential catalyst for the next wave of Bitcoin development and adoption. Interested founders can visit the official application portal for more details and submission.