Polygon

Overview

In November 2024, Polygon DAO launched the Delegate Incentive Program (DIP) to improve governance participation, attract skilled contributors, and reward ecosystem engagement. The 12-month pilot program ties compensation to measurable governance contributions, ensuring that active delegates are properly incentivized for their efforts.

The program follows a performance-based model, where quarterly rewards are distributed among selected delegates based on governance activity, voting power, and ecosystem contributions.

Compensation Structure & Eligibility

• Budget: $60,000 USD (in POL) per quarter, distributed among all eligible delegates.

Eligibility Criteria

• Minimum 5,000 POL delegated by the application deadline.

• Active participation in governance, including voting and proposal discussions.

• Technical expertise in governance systems, security, or protocol improvements.

• Contributions to Polygon’s ecosystem, such as educational content, research, or advocacy.

Performance-Based Rewards

• Delegates are ranked based on governance engagement, with up to 20% of total rewards allocated based on voting power.

• Quarterly assessments ensure that rewards reflect meaningful participation.

Governance & Oversight

Application & Selection Process

• Application window: November 20 – December 4, 2024

• Cohort size: 15-20 delegates selected based on governance activity & ecosystem contributions.

• Quarterly reviews will evaluate performance and allow underperforming delegates to be replaced.

Scoring Rubric

• Polygon/Ethereum Ecosystem Involvement – Past contributions to governance, project development, or grant programs.

• Technical Knowledge – Experience in protocol governance, security, or blockchain development.

• Ecosystem Influence – Community engagement, content creation, or public advocacy.

Priority Consideration

• Individual delegates & smaller entities within the Polygon community.

• Strong commitment to educating and onboarding new governance participants.

Implementation Plan & Timeline

• Q4 2024 – Program announcement & applications open.

• Q4 2024 – First cohort selection & onboarding.

• Q1 – Q4 2025 – Quarterly performance evaluations & reward distributions.

• Ongoing – Adjustments based on governance participation and community feedback.

Key Takeaways

• Polygon DAO ties delegate incentives to measurable outcomes, ensuring rewards align with governance contributions.

• Technical expertise is prioritized, fostering informed governance decisions that support protocol upgrades.

• Quarterly performance reviews maintain high engagement, replacing inactive delegates with more active participants.

• This program strengthens Polygon’s governance by attracting top contributors and ensuring long-term alignment with its ecosystem.