The Graph Connects with Builders at Solana Breakpoint Abu Dhabi

**The Graph reveals its true nature** - not just software, but a **human-powered network** of operators working together daily. - Indexers coordinate through Discord, forums, and on-chain interactions - These operators keep apps running and AI agents fed with reliable data - **Infrastructure work isn't glamorous**, but it's what enables web3 to scale Nick's early experience at The Graph gave him front-row access to understanding indexing. The key insight most people miss: **The Graph succeeds because of its community**, not just its technology. While infrastructure may lack romance, it provides the **predictable data layer** that web3 desperately needs to grow beyond experimental use cases.

The Graph has released a **migration guide** for developers looking to transition from Alchemy's centralized APIs to The Graph's decentralized subgraph solution. The guide provides step-by-step instructions for: - Moving from hosted services to subgraphs - Accessing blockchain data through The Graph's protocol - Leveraging new subgraph features This migration path offers developers an alternative to centralized data providers, enabling direct access to organized blockchain data through The Graph's decentralized network. [View the migration guide](https://thegraph.com/docs/en/resources/migration-guides/migrate-from-alchemy/)

**x402 protocol** is bringing the forgotten HTTP 402 "Payment Required" status code back to life after 30 years of dormancy. **Key Features:** - Machine-native billing standard for AI agents - Enables per-request payments without accounts or API keys - Supports payments for data access, compute, and API queries - Backed by Coinbase and Cloudflare **How it works:** 1. Agent requests paid resource 2. Server responds with HTTP 402 + payment details 3. USDC payment processed through facilitator 4. Access granted instantly upon verification **The Graph Integration:** The Graph's data infrastructure provides the verifiable, queryable blockchain data that x402 transactions require. Their GraphTally already implements similar microtransactions at the protocol layer. **Combined Impact:** - x402 = open payment rail for agents - The Graph = open data rail for decisions - Together = autonomous systems that think, pay, and verify This creates a **machine-driven economy** where AI agents can autonomously transact using stablecoins across multiple chains including Base, Solana, and Polygon.

**The Graph Foundation** sponsored SmartCon's inaugural VC Demo Day, connecting emerging web3 projects with venture capital investors. The event showcased: - Real blockchain projects seeking funding - Technical talent from the web3 builder community - Investment opportunities in decentralized infrastructure **Derek Meyer** from The Graph's Technical Council served as a judge, evaluating projects alongside other industry experts. The sponsorship aligns with The Graph's mission to **support the next generation** of web3 developers and infrastructure builders.