A16z's hefty $70 million investment in EigenLayer's EigenCloud has the crypto world buzzing. We’re informed that it has to do with “mass-market crypto apps,” and bridging the gap between developer dreams and blockchain reality. I mean, come on. How much of that “mass” actually reflects the dynamic, but frequently marginalized, artistic communities of Southeast Asia? Are we actually democratizing access—as we claim—or merely creating bigger palaces in the same tired old Silicon Valley fairytale kingdom?
Currently, the Web3 world can seem like an exclusive club. This has made it difficult for the overwhelming talent and cultural depth of Southeast Asian artists to break through. As the pandemic eases, funding isn’t getting any easier to find. Access to global markets remains tight, and tech often seems like it was developed for you, but not by you. They’re all just fighting for scraps while Silicon Valley is free to feast.
EigenCloud, with its EigenDA, EigenVerify, and EigenCompute, sounds great in theory. Verifiable computation, on-chain trust – these are the keywords that send VCs into a frenzy. As a test case, might EigenVerify be able to save a Balinese wood carver’s intricate designs from NFT art thieves running wild over her intellectual property? Could EigenDA provide a transparent and efficient way for a Filipino digital artist to distribute their work directly to fans, bypassing predatory marketplaces?
Maybe. But here’s where my skepticism starts and yours should too. Will EigenCloud be available to an artist working on a used Thinkpad in a remote Vietnamese hamlet? Will the fees continue to increase to the point it becomes prohibitive for creators in developing economies? Or will it just be an extension of the status quo, a new way for current players to strengthen their grip as new artists get buried?
It’s no longer enough to simply say you are democratizing access. You have to build it. It means taking an intentional approach to building platforms that serve, and are accessible to, all types of communities. Protect their interests—not the speculative profit margins of venture capitalists. A16z has the power to shape EigenCloud. The question is, will they use it to empower artists in Southeast Asia, or will they prioritize profit over genuine inclusion?
Take a creative like Ronald, an indie comic artist from the Philippines. We all know he’s so talented, but he faces challenges of reliable internet access, as well as the prohibitive costs of minting NFTs. He requires a platform that is safe, cost-effective and user-friendly. Will EigenCloud be that platform, or simply another entry field blocker?
The promise of verifiable computation is exciting. Imagine a future where artists no longer struggle to authenticate their work. This new innovation locks up their IP and ensures transparency creating a lasting trust with collectors. Now picture DAOs commissioning art, directly funding creative projects without the filter of traditional gatekeepers, and empowering artists and creators to explore their best ideas.
These are just possibilities. We should require more than flashy press release-style commitments. We need to actively shape the future of Web3 to ensure it reflects the values of inclusivity, equity, and genuine empowerment.
In order to do this, first, we must elevate the voices of Southeast Asian artists and creators. Help us support their work and spread their stories. Advocate that their experiences be included during the creation of platforms such as EigenCloud. Second, we must hold A16z and all investors’ feet to the fire. Ask the tough questions. Demand transparency. Make sure it’s not just a few cities that get these platforms developed for them.
Third, we need to develop our own alternatives. The Southeast Asian region’s Web3 community is already energetic, exciting and highly innovative. Let’s work together to build local capacity, harness the power of open-source tools, and create the participatory platforms that support solutions that reflect our values.
EigenCloud might indeed be the game-changer they promise to be, but they may turn out to be just another missed opportunity. The choice is ours. Let’s come together and ensure that this time, the power shifts to the artists, not just the tech titans of Silicon Valley. Because to be quite honest, another billion-dollar–plus valuation driven by the extraction of creative talent is the very last thing this world needs. It’s time to expand — but not just any expansion — a better expansion.
How do we do that? First, we need to amplify the voices of Southeast Asian artists and creators. Support their work, share their stories, and demand that their perspectives are heard in the development of platforms like EigenCloud. Second, we need to hold A16z and other investors accountable. Ask the tough questions. Demand transparency. Ensure that these platforms are built for everyone, not just a select few.
Finally, we need to build our own alternatives. The Southeast Asian Web3 community is already vibrant and innovative. Let's support local initiatives, develop open-source tools, and create platforms that truly reflect our values.
EigenCloud could be a game-changer, or it could be another missed opportunity. The choice is ours. Let's make sure that this time, the power goes to the artists, not just Silicon Valley. Because frankly, another billion-dollar valuation fueled by the exploitation of creative talent is the last thing this world needs. It's time to build something different, something better.
