⏳ NEAR Protocol Node Studio Applications Close Oct 24

Meta Pool has introduced a **referral program** designed to reward community members for bringing new users to the platform. **Key Features:** - Participants can request personalized referral links - Rewards and payment structures are detailed in the program documentation - The initiative builds on previous campaigns like "The Last Block of 2025" The program integrates with Meta Pool's Ecosystem DApp, which streamlines wallet authentication across NEAR, Aurora, and Ethereum networks. Users can stake and purchase bonds without repeatedly connecting wallets across different platforms. [View full program details](https://docs.metapool.app/master/contribute-to-meta-pool/referral-program)

**Node Studio Program 2** has officially launched on the NEAR Protocol ecosystem, focusing on expanding validator opportunities for builders. **Key highlights:** - 64 new validators onboarded to strengthen network decentralization - Program designed to grow NEAR's validator ecosystem - Cohort 3 preparations already underway The initiative aims to create more opportunities for developers and validators within the NEAR ecosystem. Registration is open for those wanting to stay updated on program developments. [Learn more about the program details](https://medium.com/meta-pool/node-studio-program-2-official-launch-7a26fe73d451)

The latest governance call for November 2025 has concluded, marking the 24th community discussion session. This follows the previous governance call held in September 2025. **Key Details:** - Monthly governance call format continues - Community participation in protocol decisions - Regular cadence maintained for stakeholder engagement The governance calls serve as a platform for community members to discuss protocol updates, proposals, and strategic decisions affecting the ecosystem. [Watch the full governance call](https://x.com/i/broadcasts/1YqxolLoNzNKv)

**Build Buddies** is hosting a Web3 community event in **Texcoco, Mexico** this Friday. The gathering aims to: - Connect builders in the Web3 space - Share ideas and collaborate - Foster community engagement This follows previous Build Buddies events across Asia, including Manila, Saigon, Jakarta, Bangkok, Hanoi, and Ahmedabad. [Event details and registration](https://luma.com/sibx7dby)

**Meta Pool DAO** completed a **1.67M $mpDAO token buyback** in November 2025, marking significant progress in their governance strengthening initiative. **Key Achievements:** - November buyback: 1.67M $mpDAO tokens - **Total buybacks since March 2025: Over 12M $mpDAO** - All transactions executed transparently through Rhea Finance on NEAR Protocol **Recent Context:** - October protocol fees: $38,177 collected - $24,815 allocated to active voters (1.2M mpDAO) - **mpIP-20 now implemented** - all rewards distributed in mpDAO tokens The buyback program operates under **mpIP-15** and **mpIP-18** mechanisms, with all transactions verifiable on-chain and tracked via their [Grafana dashboard](https://stats.metapool.app/d/o6-y_wQ7k/meta-pool-public-dashboard?orgId=2&from=1740805200000&to=1764565199000&viewPanel=226). **For Governance Participants:** Active voters can now claim their mpDAO rewards at [metapool.app/myvotes](http://metapool.app/myvotes/)