Initia is a Cosmos-based modular blockchain that blends Layer 1 infrastructure with customizable Layer 2 rollups. It’s designed for a multichain future where developers can launch full-stack applications—like DeFi platforms or onchain games—without the usual complexities.
With its flagship airdrop campaign and powerful incentives like tokenomics, Vested Interest Program (VIP), Initia invites builders and users to join the "Interwoven Economy." Here's everything you need to know.
What is Initia ($INIT)?
Source: Initia
Initia is a modular blockchain platform built for the appchain era, combining a Cosmos-based Layer 1 with scalable, customizable Layer 2 rollups. These Interwoven Rollups support flexible app development while remaining deeply integrated through shared tools, liquidity, and coordination.
Created by Stan Liu and Ezaan Mangalji in 2022, Initia reduces complexity by making foundational infrastructure decisions—like interoperability, data availability, and oracle integration—so developers can focus on building. Much like how Apple developers can rely on native tools like Apple Pay and Face ID, Initia provides integrated solutions including InitiaScan, Initia Wallet, and Bridget.
The result is what Initia calls a Multichain Garden of Eden: an ecosystem where development is frictionless, infrastructure is unified, and decentralized apps (dApps) can flourish.
Key features of Initia Network:
• InitiaDEX: A built-in decentralized exchange and liquidity hub.
• OPinit framework: For secure token bridging and rollup coordination.
• Interwoven Stack: A toolkit with wallets, explorers, governance modules, and bridging tools.
• VIP rewards system: Incentivizes long-term usage with esINIT (escrowed $INIT) token rewards.
How Does Initia Network Work?
From a user’s perspective, using an app on Initia feels simple and seamless. You don’t need to think about blockchains, rollups, or infrastructure—everything runs smoothly in the background. Fast transactions, low fees, and a unified experience come built-in.
Behind the scenes, the network is made up of three key layers:
Initia L1 (the main network)
This is the foundation that keeps the whole ecosystem secure and connected. It also powers InitiaDEX, a built-in decentralized exchange where users can easily swap tokens and move between apps.
Interwoven Rollups (custom app chains)
Every app on Initia runs on its own rollup—a mini-blockchain designed specifically for that app’s needs. This setup ensures better performance, less congestion, and more flexibility for developers, which means smoother experiences for users.
The Interwoven Stack (user-facing tools)
Initia comes with built-in tools like InitiaScan (to explore the network), Initia Wallet (to manage your assets), and Minitswap (to quickly move tokens between apps). You can even create a username that works across the entire ecosystem.
The result is a unified network that delivers a smoother experience for users—without requiring them to interact with the underlying complexity.
What’s the Tokenomics of Initia ($INIT)?
$INIT is the native token that powers the Initia ecosystem. It serves multiple purposes across both Layer 1 and Interwoven Rollups.You can trade Initia (INIT) on BingX’s spot market via the INIT/USDT pair, enjoying real-time charts, deep order books, and low slippage.
Source: Initia Docs
Token Utility
• Gas Fees: Used to pay for transactions on Initia Layer 1 and across supported rollups.
• Staking & Governance: Delegated to help secure the network and vote on key protocol upgrades.
• Incentive Rewards: Distributed through airdrops and the Vested Interest Program (VIP) as escrowed INIT (esINIT).
• Liquidity Backbone: Plays a central role in InitiaDEX and Enshrined Liquidity pools.
Token Supply
• Total Supply: 1 billion INIT (fixed)
• Initial Circulation: ~14.88% at mainnet launch
Token Distribution
• 25% for VIP Rewards – Used to incentivize long-term activity and alignment across the ecosystem
• 25% for Enshrined Liquidity & Staking – Released gradually (5% per year) to secure the network and bootstrap liquidity
• 15.25% for Protocol Sales – Allocated to early investors, with a 4-year vesting schedule
• 7.75% for the Foundation – Dedicated to grants, validator support, and strategic growth
• 5% for Protocol Developers – Reserved for the core team, also on a 4-year vesting schedule
• 5% for Airdrop – Fully unlocked and distributed to eligible users at launch
When is the Initia ($INIT) Airdrop?
The Initia airdrop pulls from several snapshots taken across different communities and partner ecosystems. If you’re eligible, you’ll have a 30-day window after mainnet launch to claim your tokens through the official claim site.
Airdrop Claim Period
• Mainnet Launch & Airdrop: April 24, 2025 — Official claim window opens. Eligible users can mint fully unlocked $INIT tokens through Initia’s permissionless claim portal
• Claim Deadline: May 24, 2025 — Users must complete their claim before this date
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Claim the Initia ($INIT) Airdrop
The $INIT airdrop is live for eligible participants. Here’s how to claim:
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Go to airdrop.initia.xyz and connect your wallet. Note: All Initia contributors are excluded from this airdrop.
Step 2: Verify Snapshot Criteria
Eligible categories include:
• Initia testnet users with Jennie NFTs (Level 3+ and sticker requirements)
• Active LayerZero, IBC, or milkTIA users
• Social contributors on Discord, Telegram, or Twitter
Step 3: Connect Wallet
Use MetaMask or a Cosmos-compatible wallet like Keplr.
Step 4: Claim Your $INIT
If you’re eligible, head to airdrop.initia.xyz to claim your tokens. $INIT is fully unlocked at the time of claim—no vesting, no delays. Just make sure to complete your claim within 30 days of Initia’s mainnet launch, as the airdrop window will close after that.
How to Earn more with $INIT Launch on BingX?
Once you claim your tokens, you can trade them on supported exchanges like BingX. BingX also offers an exclusive event to help you earn more with $INIT
Exclusive $USDT Airdrop on BingX - $INIT Listing Carnival
The $INIT Listing Carnival is live from April 25 to May 3 —complete simple tasks on BingX to earn your share of 20,000 USDT in rewards.
• Deposit Challenge – Accumulate 100 USDT or more in net deposits to join a 5,000 USDT prize pool.
• Spot Trading Challenge – Trade 200 USDT or more in spot volume and earn from another 10,000 USDT pool.
Initia Future Roadmap
Initia has not disclosed roadmap for its future development. However, based on the information provided, we can infer that following the mainnet launch and initial token distribution, Initia will focus on:
• Mainnet Expansion: Support for more Interwoven Rollups using various VMs.
• VIP Scaling: Multi-stage rewards system with voting, snapshots, and vesting.
• Enhanced Liquidity Programs: Through InitiaDEX and Enshrined Liquidity.
• Cross-Ecosystem Bridges: Deepening integration with Cosmos, Ethereum, and LayerZero ecosystems.
• Onchain Governance: INIT holders shape VIP parameters, staking dynamics, and protocol upgrades.
Final Thoughts
Initia offers a fresh take on blockchain architecture by combining a secure Layer 1 with customizable Layer 2 rollups and a developer-friendly toolkit. Its modular design and long-term incentive model aim to create a more sustainable, interconnected ecosystem—one that avoids the typical boom-and-bust cycles.
With support from leading investors, Initia has the foundation to realize its vision of a “Multichain Garden of Eden.” Its success now depends on developer adoption, ecosystem growth, and the ability to deliver on its ambitious goals.
FAQs
Will there be more airdrop phases?
Initia has not announced additional airdrop phases beyond the current retroactive distribution. However, the team has allocated 25% of the total token supply to the Vested Interest Program (VIP), which offers ongoing incentives for active participation in the ecosystem. Future rewards may be distributed through VIP rather than traditional airdrops.
What is the Vested Interest Program (VIP)?
The VIP is Initia’s long-term rewards system designed to align incentives across users, builders, and rollup operators. Participants can earn esINIT (escrowed INIT tokens) by contributing to network activity, such as trading, providing liquidity, or using apps built on Initia. These rewards vest over time or can be accelerated through certain staking mechanisms, encouraging sustained engagement rather than short-term speculation.
Is $INIT required to use apps on Initia?
Not always. Each Interwoven Rollup can choose its own gas token—whether it’s $INIT, a stablecoin, or its own native token. However, $INIT plays a central role in governance, staking, liquidity, and the broader incentive structure of the network, making it an important asset for users who want to participate more deeply in the Initia ecosystem.
What wallets are supported?
To claim your $INIT tokens, you'll need a wallet compatible with the Cosmos ecosystem. Most users can connect using Keplr, a widely used wallet for Cosmos-based networks. Support for Leap Wallet and other IBC-compatible wallets may also be available. Be sure to use the official claim portal at airdrop.initia.xyz to verify compatibility and avoid phishing sites.