Kraken’s Ethereum Layer 2 “Ink” Gets a Community-Driven Identity
Kraken, a major crypto exchange, is turning to the Web3 community to name the official mascot for its new Ethereum Layer 2 network, Ink. In a move that blends marketing with onchain governance, the company is using JokeRace, a blockchain-based contest platform, to host the initiative.
The contest allows users to submit mascot name suggestions and earn rewards if their entry wins. Kraken is introducing a quirky purple cartoon character—spiky and mysterious—intended to personify the Ink chain. However, the character has a problem: it doesn’t have a name. According to Kraken, “he’s spiraling… you name him.”
JokeRace Enables Onchain Voting and Community Rewards
JokeRace is a no-code, smart contract-enabled platform that facilitates sybil-resistant contests across 90+ EVM-compatible blockchains. It allows for two types of engagement:
- Enter-and-earn: where users submit entries and get paid if selected
- Vote-and-earn: where voters also earn rewards for helping curate the winning outcome
JokeRace’s voting system is resistant to spam because users pay per vote, ensuring only serious participation. This unique structure has already been adopted by platforms like Polygon and Farcaster, making it a trusted name in onchain governance contests.
Contest results can automatically trigger smart contract actions, such as token distribution or DAO proposals, providing full automation in the decision-making process.
Ink: Kraken’s Optimism-Based Layer 2 Network
Ink is Kraken’s in-house Ethereum Layer 2 solution, developed using the OP Stack, a framework for building scalable, modular blockchains. It’s part of the broader trend where centralized exchanges are deploying their own Layer 2 networks to reduce fees and improve throughput for DeFi users.
In 2025, the Ink Foundation plans to launch a native INK token, with a capped supply of 1 billion tokens. The token will be used to incentivize liquidity, governance, and ecosystem development across the Ink chain.
A New Era of Community-Driven Branding in Web3
This mascot naming contest reflects a larger movement in Web3 toward participatory brand identity. Instead of launching top-down marketing campaigns, platforms are turning to their communities to co-create narratives, designs, and decisions.
By merging creativity with blockchain incentives, Kraken’s Ink mascot campaign demonstrates how onchain tools can drive engagement while giving users real ownership in shaping the future of a protocol.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.