Build on Base and be rewarded

**Slice is developing the World Marketplace** - a decentralized global commerce platform that connects online stores without central control. **Key features:** - Any merchant can join by selling onchain - Enables crypto payments with second-speed checkout - Built on Base blockchain infrastructure - Creates interconnected but decentralized shopping experience The platform aims to transform traditional e-commerce by removing intermediaries while maintaining global connectivity. Merchants gain access to a worldwide network simply by conducting transactions onchain. *This represents a shift toward decentralized commerce infrastructure where stores remain independent but benefit from shared network effects.*

**Base and Solana are building a bridge together**, with Base's Jesse Pollak emphasizing collaboration over competition. - The bridge aims to create **better interoperability** between the two major blockchain networks - Pollak's philosophy: *"The best way to grow the pie is to do it together"* - This represents a shift toward **connected, open blockchain ecosystems** rather than isolated networks The partnership signals that major blockchain platforms are prioritizing **cross-chain functionality** and shared growth over territorial competition.

Shane Mac, founder of XMTP, emphasizes that **privacy is a fundamental human right** that should be accessible to everyone on earth. XMTP is building decentralized messaging infrastructure that prioritizes user privacy and data ownership. The protocol aims to create secure communication channels without compromising personal information. Key points from Mac's perspective: - Privacy shouldn't be a luxury for the tech-savvy - Universal access to secure communication is essential - Decentralized protocols can protect user rights The full interview explores how XMTP's technology stack enables private messaging while maintaining interoperability across different platforms and applications.

**New builder spotlight coming soon** XMTP's third episode in their builder series launches tomorrow. The episode will feature another developer working on the messaging protocol. - Part of ongoing series highlighting XMTP ecosystem builders - Previous episodes covered various protocol contributors - Focus on developer stories and technical insights The series showcases the people building on XMTP's decentralized messaging infrastructure.

**Base Batches Demo Day is happening today** at EF Devcon from 1-4pm, featuring 50 finalist startups selected from over 700 applications. **Key Details:** - Final 50 teams presenting live pitches - Limited seats available for VCs, accelerators, and investors - Both in-person and livestream options available **How to Attend:** - [RSVP for in-person attendance](https://luma.com/6g5lds80) - [RSVP for livestream](https://luma.com/778dgkue) This represents a significant opportunity to **discover the next wave of builders** in the Base ecosystem, with hundreds of teams competing for investor attention.