JP Morgan Launches Live USD Token on Base for Instant Institutional Transfers

Base has announced a new **Builder Grant Program** designed to support active developers building on their platform. **What builders receive:** - Up to **$5,000 in seed capital** - Monthly go-to-market (GTM) and product feedback sessions - Faster technical support - Ecosystem support and resources The program aims to provide both financial backing and strategic guidance to help projects launch and grow on Base. Builders can access hands-on support beyond just funding, including regular feedback loops and prioritized technical assistance.

Morpho has reached a significant milestone with over $5 billion in total deposits on Base, according to an announcement by Merlin. The platform's growth on Base is notable as it approaches the size of Morpho's main instance on Ethereum. This represents substantial adoption of the lending protocol on the Layer 2 network. **Key context:** - Morpho's total deposits across all chains were approaching $12B as of August 2025 - The protocol leads DeFi on Base with $2.6B in deposits (as of August data) - Major exchanges Gemini and Bitpanda have integrated Morpho-powered earn features The rapid growth on Base demonstrates increasing user confidence in Layer 2 solutions for DeFi lending and borrowing activities.

**Base stands out in challenging market conditions** While most crypto ecosystems have struggled, Base has demonstrated resilience during the bear market. According to Jesse, Base is one of the few platforms where Total Value Locked (TVL) has actually **increased since 2025**. This growth trajectory sets Base apart from the broader market downturn, suggesting strong fundamentals and user adoption despite unfavorable conditions. The continued TVL expansion indicates sustained developer activity and user confidence in the Base ecosystem.

The Base Ecosystem Fund has officially opened its application process for startups building on the Base network. **Key Details:** - Applications are now being accepted at [base.org/ecosystem-fund](https://www.base.org/ecosystem-fund) - The fund targets startups seeking investment to build on Base - This represents a continued opportunity for developers and founders in the Base ecosystem Startups interested in funding should visit the application portal to learn more about eligibility requirements and the submission process.

Base has announced backing over 30 teams through their ecosystem fund, with plans to continue expanding support. This milestone follows their Base Batches program launched earlier in the year, which sought 15 elite teams to build next-generation onchain applications. **Key program benefits:** - Hands-on mentorship from world-class advisors - Access to capital through the Base Ecosystem Fund - Opportunity to pitch leading Silicon Valley VCs at Demo Day The initiative aims to accelerate development of applications on the Base network, positioning onchain as the evolution of online infrastructure.