What Is DAO Maker?
DAO Maker is a cryptocurrency launchpad specializing in retail-friendly token sales, renowned for pioneering the SHO (Strong Holder Offering) model. This approach ensures only committed, long-term holders participate in your token sale.
Positioned as a middle-tier platform, DAO Maker offers:
- Higher quality than meme-centric launchpads.
- Less bureaucracy compared to centralized exchange (CEX) launches.
For many Web3 founders, DAO Maker serves as the ideal first serious launchpad—balancing credibility with accessibility.
Key Highlights
- Founded: 2018
- Blockchain: Ethereum + EVM-compatible chains
- Launch Models: SHO, Venture Bonds, Dynamic Coin Offerings
- Community: Hundreds of thousands of verified users
- Notable Launches: My Neighbor Alice, Orion Protocol, GameFi.org, Infinity Pad
Why Founders Choose DAO Maker
1. Authentic Long-Term Investors
DAO Maker’s stringent participant filters:
- Require staking $DAO tokens or passing KYC.
- Prioritize wallets with transaction history.
Result: Projects attract loyal token holders, not speculative traders.
👉 Discover how DAO Maker compares to top-tier launchpads
2. Real Exchange Listings
DAO Maker alumni frequently list on OKX, KuCoin, Gate.io, and other mid-to-top-tier exchanges.
Analogy: If Binance is Harvard, DAO Maker is a respected global university—building credibility without the elite bottleneck.
3. Vibrant Community & KOL Network
- Repeat users trust the platform’s curation.
- KOL partnerships amplify exposure for high-potential projects.
4. Flexible Fundraising Models
Choose the best fit for your project:
- SHO: Target specific holder profiles.
- Dynamic Pricing: Adjusts based on demand.
- Venture Bonds: Combine tokens with yield mechanisms.
Challenges to Consider
1. Rigorous Vetting Process
- Weak tokenomics, documentation, or product readiness lead to quick rejection.
- Meme/scam projects are filtered out.
2. Marketing Responsibility
DAO Maker provides exposure, but founders must:
- Engage paid KOLs and local communities.
- Run pre-launch hype campaigns.
3. Tokenomics Scrutiny
Mandatory requirements:
- Public sale allocation ≤10%.
- Transparent vesting schedules.
- Circulating supply designed for sustainable price action.
DAO Maker vs. Competitors
| Platform | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|-------------------|------------------------------------|--------------------------------|
| DAO Maker | Curated holders, flexible models | Requires strong marketing |
| Binance Launchpad | Massive reach, instant CEX listing | Highly competitive |
| TrustPad | Easy onboarding | Lower-tier investors |
| PinkSale | Fully permissionless | High rug-pull risk |
Ideal Candidates for DAO Maker
✅ MVP or testnet-ready projects
✅ Global use cases (not niche/local)
✅ Clear documentation and roadmap
✅ Commitment to post-launch marketing
Poor Fits
❌ Incomplete tokenomics
❌ Anonymous teams without legal structure
❌ Projects expecting passive success
Success Stories
- My Neighbor Alice: SHO → Binance listing.
- GameFi.org: Evolved into a top gaming ecosystem.
- Infinity Pad: Scaled Web3 infrastructure post-launch.
These teams leveraged DAO Maker to build genuine communities, not exit liquidity.
Pro Tips for Approval
- Polish tokenomics: Emphasize fairness and utility.
- Launch a testnet early—even a basic version.
- Prepare marketing assets: Videos, infographics, articles.
👉 Learn how to optimize your launch strategy
FAQs
Q: How to apply?
Submit a pitch via DAO Maker’s portal. MVP and clear tokenomics improve odds.
Q: Typical raise amount?
$200K–$2M for SHOs.
Q: CEX listing guaranteed?
No, but DAO Maker’s reputation improves post-launch chances.
Final Verdict
Best for: Serious Web3 founders seeking quality over hype.
DAO Maker is a stepping stone—ideal for projects aiming to prove viability before targeting elite launchpads.
If you’re building for the long term, this launchpad delivers real holders.