Founded in 2021 with a generous 500 BTC donation from Jack Dorsey and Jay-Z, we believe that decentralization of the people building for and on Bitcoin enhances its resilience, reach, and relevance as a global currency.
Btrust Builders is our program designed to educate existing software developers from Africa about Bitcoin and Lightning development to start them on their journey as open-source Bitcoin contributors. The application is open all year round for mid-to-senior level engineers who are ready for the transition.
We have two grant schemes for developers who want to start or continue their contribution efforts to open-source Bitcoin projects.
This grant supports software developers new to Bitcoin open-source contributions. It provides full-time funding for six months to help you focus on key projects and prepare a strong proposal for long-term support.
Working in open source can feel isolating, especially for developers in the Global South facing pay and career uncertainties.
Our Open Source Cohort offers support, allowing you to contribute to Bitcoin projects independently within a supportive team framework.
Our builders run BitDev meetups across thirteen African cities—Abuja, Accra, Cotonou, Douala, Gitega, Goma, Johannesburg, Kaduna, Kampala, Kano, Lagos, Nairobi, and Uyo, —with support from Btrust in administration, communication, and funding. The goal is to expand these meetups to more African cities, growing the pipeline.
These monthly meetups follow the established BitDevs format and are highly localized. They offer a high-signal environment to deepen understanding of Bitcoin development and communicate opportunities within the technical community.
Leadership transitions mark important moments in any organization’s journey, and today, we’re excited to share one of our own. In July, we put out a call for a Chief Executive Officer. After receiving multiple strong applications and going through a long, thoughtful, and rigorous selection process, we’re happy to announce that Abubakar Nur Khalil has been appointed as the new CEO of Btrust.
In the world of Bitcoin development, talent is everywhere. Yet, for many developers in the Global South, especially across Africa, reaching the highest levels of contribution isn’t just about skill or dedication—it’s about access. Opportunities to meet global collaborators, speak at conferences, and work alongside seasoned peers are often stalled at the border. Visa challenges mean promising voices go unheard on international stages, and career-defining connections go unmade.
We’re excited to recognize six outstanding Bitcoin open-source developers awarded Btrust grants, including four starter grant recipients and two open-source cohort members. The four starter grant recipients are all graduates of the 2025 Btrust Builders pathways. The program offers structured tracks that cover everything from Bitcoin fundamentals to advanced hands-on open-source contributions, preparing participants for long-term careers in Bitcoin development.
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