Following the launch of its Bitcoin ETF in January 2024, Bitwise Asset Management committed to allocating 10% of gross profits annually to support the individuals maintaining the Bitcoin network. Over a year later, this commitment remains steadfast, with the donations increasing in size.
Increasing Support for Open-Source Development
In a recent announcement on March 4, Bitwise revealed a donation of $233,000 to three organizations that fund BTC open-source developers: Brink, OpenSats, and the Bitcoin Development Fund of the Human Rights Foundation.
With this latest contribution, Bitwise has now provided over $380,000 to programmers dedicated to the upkeep and security of the largest cryptocurrency network globally. Notably, these funds are sourced directly from the profits of the ETF, rather than from marketing budgets or goodwill gestures.
Bitwise proudly donates $233,000 to support Bitcoin open-source developers as part of our annual commitment to the cause.
This year has seen significant growth for the Bitwise Bitcoin ETF ($BITB), making this… pic.twitter.com/wjEoLHDVsY
— Bitwise (@Bitwise) March 4, 2026
Image Credit: Reuters/Brendan McDermid/File Photo
The Bitwise Bitcoin ETF ($BITB) has garnered over $2.5 billion in investor inflows since its inception, driving the size of the annual donation.
As the BITB continues to grow, so will the contribution to open-source developers. Bitwise has confirmed that future donations will scale in line with the fund’s assets under management.
Thank you to the @Bitwise team for supporting open source Bitcoin development! https://t.co/xDgQTc5RHk
— Brink (@bitcoinbrink) March 4, 2026
The Unsung Heroes of Bitcoin
Open-source developers often work behind the scenes, dedicating their time to coding, reviewing proposals, fixing bugs, and engaging in technical discussions without monetary compensation.
The organizations receiving donations from Bitwise aim to change this narrative by providing grants and fellowships to full-time contributors, with a focus on supporting developers in regions where financial freedom is most at risk.
For these organizations, corporate donations play a vital role in sustaining Bitcoin’s core development, which operates without a central authority or a company providing regular paychecks. Consistent funding from donors like Bitwise is crucial for the continuity of these initiatives.
Extending Support to Ethereum
Bitwise has also extended its commitment to supporting open-source development to Ethereum, with reports indicating donations from profits of its Ethereum ETF ($ETHW) to Ethereum contributors in the previous year.
Currently managing over $15 billion in assets through more than 40 products, including ETFs linked to XRP, Solana, and Dogecoin, Bitwise continues to leverage its ETF business to not only profit from cryptocurrencies but also to support the foundational work that sustains the industry.
Whether this approach becomes a standard practice in the industry remains to be seen. For now, Bitwise stands out as a consistent supporter, transparently showcasing its commitment to the community each year.
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