• CROX ROAD
  • Posts
  • Plan B Network Launches CypherTank: A Bitcoin-Only Pitch Competition With $850,000+ in Prizes

Plan B Network Launches CypherTank: A Bitcoin-Only Pitch Competition With $850,000+ in Prizes

Plan B Network introduces CypherTank, the first-ever Bitcoin-only pitch series offering $850,000+ in investments and grants. Filmed in Lugano, the semifinals take place on October 22 and finals on October 27, during the Plan ₿ Forum.

The Bitcoin ecosystem is about to witness a game-changing event that blends innovation, competition, and global exposure. Plan B Network, in partnership with the Plan B VC Fund, has launched CypherTank—a unique Bitcoin-only pitch competition that gives startups and nonprofits a chance to showcase their breakthrough ideas. With $850,000+ in funding and prizes on the line, the event promises to attract some of the brightest Bitcoin builders from around the world.

Unlike traditional startup competitions, CypherTank is not about flashy presentations alone. It’s about real negotiations, filmed and distributed to a global audience, making it both an educational and inspirational event. Participants will gain not only funding opportunities but also international visibility as episodes are released across major platforms. By focusing exclusively on Bitcoin and contiguous technologies, CypherTank ensures that builders, founders, and nonprofits are aligned with the mission of strengthening the Bitcoin ecosystem.

This makes Lugano, Switzerland—a city already positioning itself as a global Bitcoin hub—the perfect location. With the event coinciding with the Plan ₿ Forum, CypherTank further reinforces Lugano’s role in hosting world-class Bitcoin initiatives. Startups and nonprofits will compete under the spotlight, pitching directly to leading investors and innovators who have shaped the Bitcoin industry for years.

Table of Contents

What Is CypherTank?

CypherTank is the first-of-its-kind Bitcoin pitch series, designed to bring together founders and investors in a high-stakes, transparent, and globally distributed format. Contestants pitch live, while judges evaluate their ideas and even extend on-the-spot investment or grant offers. This adds an element of authenticity and drama rarely seen in startup competitions. For viewers, it’s a behind-the-scenes look at how real deals get made in the Bitcoin ecosystem.

Unlike other competitions, CypherTank is structured to provide opportunities for both startups and nonprofits. Startups can secure investment to scale their solutions, while nonprofits working on Bitcoin-related causes can win grants to support their mission. This dual-track approach ensures that both commercial innovation and humanitarian efforts in Bitcoin are nurtured and rewarded.

By filming and distributing the episodes globally, CypherTank extends its impact far beyond Lugano. Entrepreneurs who may not win still gain international exposure to investors, Bitcoin advocates, and potential partners. It’s not just a contest—it’s a global showcase of Bitcoin talent and innovation, reinforcing the idea that Bitcoin is more than money; it’s a movement.

Tracks & Prize Pool

CypherTank is divided into two main categories: for-profit startups and nonprofit projects, each offering substantial prizes and recognition. This clear division ensures that innovation across all aspects of the Bitcoin ecosystem is represented and rewarded.

For-Profit Startups (8 Finalists)

The startup track is split into four major categories: On-Chain Bitcoin Tech, Lightning Tech, Peer-to-Peer Tech, and Emerging Markets. Each category highlights crucial areas where Bitcoin innovation is rapidly evolving. Startups competing in these categories represent the future of decentralized technology and global Bitcoin adoption.

Winners in this track will share a $450,000 pre-authorized investment via capped SAFE agreements from the Plan B VC Fund, giving them a direct pathway to accelerate growth. In addition, they will receive $200,000 worth of incubation and acceleration services at the Lugano Plan B Hub, which offers infrastructure, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Judges also have the freedom to extend additional investments live on stage, raising the stakes even further.

Nonprofit Projects (3 Finalists)

The nonprofit track focuses on areas where Bitcoin can drive positive societal impact. Categories include Human Rights Protection, Scientific Breakthroughs, and the Lugano Bitcoin-Citadel. These areas reflect Bitcoin’s potential not just as financial technology but as a tool for freedom, science, and community development.

The winning nonprofit will receive a $200,000 grant from the Plan B Foundation, with opportunities for more funding from judges who are inspired by their vision. This opens doors for nonprofits tackling critical challenges in human rights, open science, and local Bitcoin adoption. By funding nonprofits, CypherTank ensures that Bitcoin’s social mission is as supported as its financial one.

💰 Total Prize Pool: Over $850,000 in investments, grants, and services, making CypherTank one of the most lucrative Bitcoin-focused competitions ever organized.

The Judges Panel

What sets CypherTank apart is its stellar panel of judges, featuring some of the most influential names in the Bitcoin industry. These judges bring decades of collective experience, financial backing, and deep knowledge of Bitcoin’s potential. Their presence not only validates the competition but also guarantees that participants will receive feedback from the very best.

The panel includes: Paolo Ardoino (Tether / Plan B VC Fund), Oleg Mikhalsky (Fulgur Ventures), Adam Back (Blockstream), Matt Odell (Ten31, OpenSats), Preston Pysh (Ego Death), Allen Farrington (Axiom), Mike Jarmuz (Lightning Ventures), Eric Yakes (Epoch), and Brad Mills (Angel Investor). These names are synonymous with Bitcoin investment, thought leadership, and development.

Having these judges on board transforms CypherTank into more than just a competition. It’s a chance for founders to present directly to Bitcoin’s most trusted voices, potentially forming long-term relationships that could extend beyond the competition itself. For applicants, this is an unprecedented opportunity to gain mentorship, investment, and recognition all in one place.

Event Schedule

CypherTank follows a structured timeline that builds momentum toward the finals. The process begins with a global call for applications in September 2025, inviting both startups and nonprofits worldwide to submit their ideas.

On October 22, 2025, the semifinals will be recorded at PoW.Space in Lugano, where for-profit startups will present their innovations. This will be followed by the prestigious Plan ₿ Forum (Oct 24–25), one of the most anticipated Bitcoin conferences globally. The competition then culminates with the finals on October 27, where both for-profit and nonprofit winners will be announced.

Post-production will take place in November 2025, ensuring professional editing for global release. By the end of the year, episodes will be distributed across YouTube, Rumble, and X, allowing millions worldwide to watch the action unfold. This timeline not only provides structure but also ensures maximum exposure for participants and winners alike.

Quote From the Organizers

“CypherTank is designed to give Bitcoin founders not only capital, but a global stage,” said Giacomo Zucco, Director of the Plan B Network. “By recording real negotiations, scoring pitches, and sharing episodes online, we’re amplifying innovation and drawing attention to Lugano as a Bitcoin hub.”

Zucco emphasized that CypherTank is about more than just funding. It’s about showcasing Bitcoin’s brightest builders and nonprofits to the world, creating role models for the next generation of innovators. By filming and sharing the process, the event ensures that audiences everywhere can learn how deals are structured, how ideas are evaluated, and how Bitcoin innovation thrives.

This statement reflects the broader vision of the Plan B Network: to not only support Bitcoin development but to also build a sustainable ecosystem of founders, nonprofits, and investors that collectively push Bitcoin forward.

How to Apply

Applications are open now for both for-profit startups and nonprofit projects. Interested applicants can submit their ideas directly via the official form: Apply Here. The process is streamlined, and selected finalists will have all expenses paid to attend the competition in Lugano.

This is more than just a chance to win funding. It’s an opportunity to join a global network of Bitcoin innovators, gain recognition from top investors, and potentially secure partnerships that last beyond the competition. Founders and nonprofits alike are encouraged to apply, regardless of where they are in the world.

With $850,000 in prizes, global distribution, and a world-class panel of judges, CypherTank promises to be a defining moment in Bitcoin’s journey. For builders who believe in the mission of Bitcoin, there’s no better stage to showcase their ideas.

Conclusion

CypherTank represents a major milestone in Bitcoin’s ongoing story of innovation and adoption. By offering capital, exposure, and mentorship, the competition creates a bridge between visionaries and investors. It demonstrates that Bitcoin is not only a financial asset but also a platform for real-world solutions, human rights, and scientific progress.

For the city of Lugano, hosting CypherTank reinforces its image as a global Bitcoin hub, drawing international attention and talent. For participants, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to pitch in front of Bitcoin’s top names while competing for life-changing funding and support.

As Bitcoin continues to shape the future of money and technology, events like CypherTank ensure that the builders and nonprofits pushing its boundaries are given the stage they deserve. With global distribution and a strong prize pool, this competition is set to inspire millions while spotlighting the next wave of Bitcoin pioneers.

FAQs

What makes CypherTank unique?

It’s the first Bitcoin-only pitch series with filmed negotiations, global distribution, and opportunities for both investments and nonprofit grants.

Who can apply?

Both for-profit startups and nonprofit projects focused on Bitcoin innovation are eligible to apply from anywhere in the world.

How to Apply

How much is the prize pool?

Over $850,000 in investments, grants, and incubation services are available for winners.

Where and when is CypherTank happening?

In Lugano, Switzerland, with semifinals on October 22, 2025 and finals on October 27, 2025.

Where will episodes be released?

Episodes will be distributed globally across YouTube, Rumble, and X by the end of 2025.

Sponsored By:

Unlock the power of your Bitcoin with Money On Chain, the Bitcoin-backed DeFi protocol on RSK that issues DOC—a stablecoin pegged 1:1 to USD for rock-solid stability amid volatility, proven through overcollateralization and risk-sharing that survived the 2020 crash without a hitch. Harness BTC's unmatched security and censorship resistance while earning yields up to 20% via leveraged BPro tokens and governing with MoC for rewards and upgrades—all in a trustless, transparent ecosystem. Transform idle BTC into productive assets today: Visit moneyonchain.com and start building!

That's all for today, see ya tomorrow! If you want more, be sure to follow our X (@croxroadnewsco), Instagram (@croxroadnews.co), Youtube (@libertarianbtc), Tiktok (@croxroadnews) and nostr - [email protected]

VISIT OUR STORE

The Best Merch For Bitcoin Maxis

Visit Crox Road Store 👉🏻 https://croxroad.store/

FOLLOW US ON NOSTR

DISCLAIMER: None of this is financial advice. This newsletter is strictly educational and is not investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any assets or to make any financial decisions. Please be careful and do your own research.

You May Also Like

If You Like Our Content And Want To Help Us To Make It Better, You Can Buy Us One (Or More!) Coffee CLICKING HERE

Reply

or to participate.