Venice.aiVenice has launched its $27M Incentive Fund to support developers building with the Venice API, the only private, uncensored source of scalable AI inference. The API provides all the features of Venice’s widely-used webapp such as access to frontier open-source models, AI web search, document and image analysis, Characters, and photo enhancement.
The fund will accelerate the ecosystem of tools, applications, and infrastructure that show what's possible with private, uncensored AI.
Types of projects
The Venice Incentive Fund can support several categories of projects that enhance the Venice ecosystem, such as (list is non-exhaustive):
Developer tools/SDKs: Libraries, frameworks, or toolkits that make it easier for other developers to build with the Venice API
AI applications: Consumer or business AI products accessible through a dedicated interface, powered by the Venice API
API integrations: Connectors that embed Venice capabilities into existing platforms or services, like plug-ins, widgets, or modals
Model development: Projects that fine-tune or adapt open-source models for specific use cases
dApps: AI-powered on-chain applications that leverage Venice for core functionality within blockchain environments
Infrastructure: Technical foundations that improve Venice API's utility, performance, or accessibility
When considering which category your project falls into, focus on the primary value it delivers. Projects with clear, focused objectives tend to perform better in the selection process than those attempting to solve too many (big) problems simultaneously.
Individual developers or small teams that can achieve significant results through effective AI implementation are especially encouraged to apply. AI enables smaller teams to accomplish what previously required much larger engineering resources.
Application requirements & process
Applications are submitted through this typeform and reviewed on a rolling basis. Decisions are typically communicated within 1-2 weeks of submission.
Applicants should be prepared to provide, among other details:
Project description and objectives
Technical architecture and detailed API usage plans
Explanation of how the project aligns with Venice's values
Requested funding amount and budgeting plan
Team background and capability to execute
For larger funding requests, additional discussions or demonstrations may be required during the review process. This helps us better understand complex projects and ensures that substantial funding is allocated effectively.
All funded projects must meet these criteria:
Active use of the Venice API as a central component of the project
A portion of awarded VVV tokens must be staked (granting the developer free API access)
Display of "Powered by Venice" logo with a clickable link to venice.ai
Well-defined scope with clear deliverables rather than open-ended, ongoing development
We evaluate applications based on technical innovation, API utilization effectiveness, value alignment, team capability, scope definition, and potential ecosystem contribution.
Project ideas
While we welcome all types of projects that use the Venice API to apply. Below are some ideas the Venice team would like to see executed. These ideas aren't guaranteed to receive funding, but they represent areas where we see potential for impactful applications:
Community Apps Directory
A hub that showcases projects built with the Venice API, allowing users to discover applications and developers to showcase their work. The directory would enable user submissions and provide links to projects. This could either follow Venice's brand guidelines precisely or adopt a completely different design aesthetic.
Standalone Image Upscaler/Enhancer
An application focused exclusively on image upscaling and enhancing using Venice's API. This specialized tool would provide a streamlined interface for this specific function, making it accessible to users who don't need the full range of image generation features.
Automatic1111 Integration
A Venice integration for the popular Automatic1111 UI would allow users to access our image models through a familiar interface. This would expand our reach to an established community of image generation enthusiasts who already use and understand this powerful interface.
Advanced Image Studio
A comprehensive image generation interface similar to Automatic1111 but as a standalone application. This would include all the advanced controls, features, and layout that experienced users expect from image generation tools, potentially eliminating the need for separate integrations.
Retro 80's/Cyberpunk Chat Interface
A stylized alternative interface for Venice chat with a retro 80's or cyberpunk aesthetic. This project would offer a stripped-down subset of our features in a visually distinctive package, focusing on creating a unique user experience rather than adding new functionality.
PDF Intelligence Tool
A side-by-side PDF reading and AI assistance tool, similar to what Cursor provides for code but designed for documents and books. This application would improve the ergonomics of interacting with PDFs by allowing users to search, ask questions, and get insights about document content while reading. The tool could enhance research, study, and professional document workflows by bringing Venice's AI capabilities directly into the document reading experience.
These ideas represent areas where we see potential for meaningful contributions to the Venice ecosystem, but we're open to a wide range of use cases. The most important factor is building something that effectively leverages our API while respecting user privacy and creative freedom.
Apply Now
Ready to build with the Venice API? The Incentive Fund is open for applications, and we're looking forward to seeing what you create.
Apply to the Venice Incentive Fund
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for the Venice Incentive Fund?
Apply through our application form. The form asks for your project description, technical implementation details, and funding requirements. Be clear about how you're using the Venice API and why your project aligns with our values of privacy and uncensored AI.
Who can apply for funding?
Anyone building with the Venice API can apply - individual developers, small teams, DAOs, or established organizations. We evaluate applications based on technical merit and alignment with Venice's values, not team size or background. We particularly welcome applications from solo developers and small teams who can leverage AI effectively to achieve outsized results.
What funding amounts are available?
Funding varies based on project scope and complexity. Previously funded projects have received between $5,000 and $100,000 in VVV tokens. Larger amounts are possible for exceptional projects with clear milestones. Funding is typically distributed in tranches tied to project milestones.
I have already built something using the Venice API, can I apply for retroactive funding?
We do not retroactively fund projects, but you can apply for continued development and growth of your project.
Is a working prototype required?
No, we accept applications at various stages from concept to production. However, applications with a clear technical plan or working prototype tend to receive more favorable consideration.
How detailed should the technical architecture be?
Your application should include sufficient technical detail to demonstrate how you'll implement and use the Venice API effectively. This includes specifying which models and endpoints you plan to use and how you'll optimize token usage.
Is staking required for funded projects?
Yes. A portion of awarded VVV tokens must be staked to access the Venice API, ensuring projects have the resources needed for ongoing API usage. The specific amount required depends on your project's anticipated API usage volume and the total grant amount.
How many API calls should I estimate?
You should provide an estimate of your expected daily API call volume to help us understand your resource requirements. Consider your expected user base, frequency of AI interactions, and token usage per request.
Are applications outside Web3 accepted?
Absolutely. We welcome applications from any domain that can benefit from private, uncensored AI. The key requirement is effective use of the Venice API rather than specific industry focus.
Do you require equity or token allocation?
For most projects requesting standard funding amounts, we do not require equity or token allocation. For projects requesting larger amounts or those planning token launches, we may discuss terms that include token allocation to Venice.
