The blockchain platform Celo is seeking to transition into a layer-2 network on top of Ethereum, prompting a selection process akin to a high-stakes competition. Teams behind major layer-2 networks like Arbitrum, Optimism, Polygon, and zkSync are contending to secure Celo’s technology endorsement, resembling a tech version of “The Bachelorette.”
Over the past few months, Celo’s developers have been meticulously assessing technical proposals from these competing teams. This evaluation process, detailed in a recent blog post by Tim Moreton, CEO of cLabs, the leading developer behind Celo, now shifts towards non-technical considerations, particularly focusing on the economic terms and incentives offered by each candidate.
Factors such as revenue sharing arrangements, like Arbitrum’s requirement for a portion of protocol revenue, carry significant weight in these deliberations. However, Moreton refrains from specifying a definitive timeline for finalizing a decision, emphasizing the importance of crafting a comprehensive proposal.
Despite Celo’s comparatively modest standing in the blockchain landscape, its potential transition attracts considerable attention from prominent layer-2 networks, turning the selection process into a high-profile affair. Each contender, eager to align with Celo’s needs, demonstrates substantial efforts to woo the platform, offering test networks, technical support, and direct engagement with top executives.
For instance, Optimism provided Celo’s team with an internal testnet, Polygon extended deep technical expertise along with testnets, Matter Labs actively engaged with Celo’s community, and Arbitrum facilitated detailed discussions and provided insights into their platform.
Ultimately, Celo’s decision hinges on finding the most suitable stack to fulfill its requirements, amidst a competitive landscape where major layer-2 networks vie for endorsement, marking a significant moment in blockchain technology akin to a strategic courtship.