Gradient Network Airdrop

Problem Solved

Traditional cloud computing is dominated by a few tech giants. As emerging applications (IoT, autonomous vehicles, AI inference) demand ultra-low latency and local data processing, centralized clouds struggle to scale and meet these needs. Gradient Network addresses this gap by leveraging edge computing in a decentralized manner. Instead of routing all data to distant data centers, Gradient distributes compute tasks across a network of user-operated nodes at the “edge,” closer to end users. This approach reduces latency and bandwidth bottlenecks while improving resilience.

Crucially, Gradient marries this edge architecture with blockchain incentives (similar to other DePIN networks). Its design introduces a standard compute layer with mechanisms like a Pervasive Connectivity layer and Adaptive Orchestration to intelligently allocate resources across the network. A Proof-of-Connectivity system (“Taps”) periodically links random nodes to verify network liveliness and quality. By focusing on the incentive problem (rewarding participants for sharing resources) and the technical problem (optimizing many dispersed nodes), Gradient aims to unlock a global, crowdsourced cloud that is more inclusive and fault-tolerant than today’s monolithic clouds.

Tokenomics

Gradient has not yet launched a token. Participants currently earn points through network contributions (e.g., uptime, taps, referrals), which are expected to convert into tokens in the future. The team has confirmed that points are non-fungible across seasons and that future reward structures will continue to emphasize meaningful participation over passive uptime.

While tokenomics details are not yet public, it is safe to guess that based on similar DePIN projects, the token may also be used for staking by node operators and as a medium of exchange for compute services. However, exact supply, distribution, and utility remain speculative until an official release.

Perspectives

The concept of decentralized compute networks has existed for years, but none have yet broken through to rival traditional providers. For most users, cost and security are the only metrics that matter—and centralized cloud giants still dominate those fronts. Ideals like decentralization and trustlessness haven’t yet driven meaningful market migration.

Still, Gradient Network’s phased approach gives it structure: Phase 1 focuses on mapping global connectivity via lightweight Sentry Nodes, Phase 2 aims to standardize and aggregate distributed compute resources, and Phase 3 introduces intelligent task orchestration across the network. This stepwise strategy is smart given the complexity of building decentralized infrastructure. It allows the team to iterate, fix problems early, and validate utility before scaling up.

Whether Gradient can deliver where others stalled remains to be seen. But their clear roadmap, strong execution so far, and massive early user base offer a promising foundation. If future phases can deliver real compute performance at lower cost or with new capabilities, the project could carve out a unique niche. For now, it’s positioned well in this crowded category.

Founders and Team

Gradient Network is led by co-founder Yuan Gao, whose background adds considerable credibility to the project. Gao was previously Head of Growth at the Helium Foundation and Head of Marketing at NEO, bringing experience from two prominent crypto projects. At Helium, he helped scale one of the most successful DePIN networks (decentralized wireless hotspots), experience directly relevant to growing Gradient’s user base and ecosystem. His track record in building communities and driving adoption is evident in Gradient’s explosive early growth. Gao is also a Columbia University graduate, and his blend of technical insight and marketing savvy positions him well to steer Gradient’s vision.

Beyond Yuan Gao, the team’s composition is still coming into focus. Publicly, at least one other team member, Ye Wang, is listed as a Data Scientist, hinting that the project has expertise in data analysis and network optimization. It’s likely that Gradient’s core team includes engineers and developers with strong backgrounds in distributed systems, Solana blockchain development, and networking – though specific profiles remain mostly under wraps. The involvement of top-tier investors also suggests that thorough due diligence was done on the team’s technical capabilities and plan.

The ability to deliver so far is demonstrated by the functional Sentry Node software and a live network spanning dozens of countries. However, the next challenges – enabling complex compute tasks, ensuring security at scale, and handling token economics – will test the team’s depth. Overall, the founding team’s experience and the rapid early execution suggest they have a solid chance of delivering on their roadmap.

Funding

Gradient Network has secured funding from several top-tier venture capital firms. In a financing round completed in September 2024, the project announced investment from Pantera Capital, Multicoin Capital, and Hongshan (Sequoia Capital China), among others. These investors are notable: Pantera and Multicoin are well-known crypto VCs (the latter was an early backer of Solana and Helium), and Hongshan is the rebranded Sequoia China – signaling confidence from both Western and Asian venture circles. The presence of these heavyweight funds lends Gradient significant credibility and suggests a strong belief in its long-term vision.

The investors’ support is not only financial but also strategic. For example, Multicoin’s Kyle Samani has publicly highlighted Gradient’s rapid growth, and having such backers can open doors for partnerships and advisor insights (Multicoin has experience with other DePIN projects; Sequoia’s network in Asia could aid expansion, etc.).

In summary, Gradient enjoys strong financial backing for an early-stage project. The undisclosed round involving Pantera, Multicoin, and Hongshan in late 2024 likely provided enough capital to reach a token generation event without immediate cashflow concerns. This means the team can focus on building the product and community rather than short-term monetization.

Community

Gradient Network has rapidly built one of the largest communities in the crypto space for a project at its stage. By the numbers: over 1 million user nodes have been deployed across 190+ countries, underscoring massive global participation in its early program. The project’s official X account, launched in mid-2024, has already amassed around 800,000+ followers – a staggering figure that reflects viral growth fueled by the promise of future rewards. This growth has been driven by an extremely low barrier to entry (anyone can run the browser extension for free) and an aggressive referral program that incentivizes users to invite others.

The sentiment in the community is largely positive and hopeful at this stage. Social media discussions revolve around sharing node setup tips, maximizing point earnings, and speculating on token plans. However, it’s clear many are “airdrop hunters” at heart, the true test will be if the community remains engaged once the initial distribution occurs. For now, engagement levels are high: users proudly share stats like taps completed and referral codes, and Gradient’s team provides regular updates to keep the momentum.

Gradient’s growth strategy has been very effective. The project implemented a leveling system which gamefies participation and creates friendly competition among users. This, combined with active social media marketing and endorsement by influencers in the crypto space, led to exponential user acquisition (from near zero to a million nodes within months). The team also emphasizes community integrity – they have published guidelines and “Dos and Don’ts” to curb abuse, such as discouraging multi-account farming or unauthorized scripts. This is aimed at ensuring the community growth is genuine and sustainable, not just inflated by bots.

Competitors

Gradient Network is entering a competitive space that includes both legacy cloud providers and emerging Web3 infrastructure projects. On the centralized side, cloud giants like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure dominate the compute market and offer unmatched reliability and scale. For Gradient to compete, it will need to deliver tangible cost or functionality advantages in specific use cases.

In the Web3 ecosystem, several projects are building toward decentralized compute or infrastructure networks. Notable names include Akash, Golem, Flux, and IO.NET, among others. Each of them has its own take—some focus on professional infrastructure providers, others on casual contributors—but they share a common goal of democratizing access to computing power. Gradient differentiates itself with its phased approach and heavy emphasis on low-barrier participation from everyday users via browser-based nodes.

There’s also overlap with general DePIN projects like Helium and Grass, though they tackle different resource verticals. The broader DePIN space is becoming crowded, so standing out will depend on execution and whether Gradient can evolve from hype-driven growth into real, sustained usage. Right now, it has community traction and visibility on its side, which is more than many competitors can claim.

Other Details

The Gradient Network incentivizes user participation through a points campaign where participants earn points by contributing computing resources, which may position them for potential future airdrop rewards if the project launches a token. Note that Gradient Network has not officially announced a token launch or guaranteed airdrop, so participation does not ensure token allocation. 

The campaign encourages users to set up and run Sentry Nodes (via a browser extension) to contribute to the network’s decentralized computing infrastructure, earning points based on uptime and tasks. Participants earn points through Proof-of-Availability (POA) and Proof-of-Connectivity (POC) mechanisms. Additional points come from referrals, social media engagement, and completing achievements. Points may qualify users for a potential airdrop if a token is launched.

As of April 2025, the campaign is in Season 1, called the "Homogenized Computation" stage, which focuses on building a peer-to-peer edge computer network. Season 1 began on April 15, 2024, and requires a PC (not mobile-exclusive), a single authentic account, and no bots or multiple accounts. The Gradient team actively bans users attempting to cheat by mass-creating accounts. Participation is free, with no fees or financial investment required, only computing resources and internet connectivity.