In the Livepeer ecosystem, funding applications for projects that want to build on Livepeer are processed through Special Purpose Entities (SPEs), which act as intermediaries between the Livepeer Treasury and individual projects. Each SPE is responsible for managing and distributing funds to projects that align with its specific mandate. While each project is subject to the same high standards as those used to evaluate SPE applications, the exact requirements and evaluation processes are determined by each SPE based on their area of expertise and focus.
Before applying for funding, project leaders are encouraged to reach out to 🏛GovWork for guidance. GovWorks can help them navigate the current SPE landscape, identifying existing SPEs that align with their project’s goals. SPE Dashboard can provide a great outlook on the current SPE landscape and the scope of their work. Each SPE focuses on specific areas such as Video AI, LLMs or Cloud. Once the correct SPE is identified, individuals submit their applications based on the specific requirements set by that SPE. Although each SPE tailors its application process and the specific format and additional documentation required, the 📃SPE Proposal Template is used as a reference to submit a successful application.
Each SPE is responsible for setting its own reporting and accountability requirements for funded projects. Typically, individuals receiving funding must provide regular progress reports to the SPE, detailing how funds have been used, progress toward milestones and adjustments to timelines or goals if necessary. These reports are reviewed by the SPE to ensure transparency and accountability. Based on the outcomes of these reviews, further funding may be approved, or, in cases where progress is lacking, disbursements may be paused or stopped entirely.
Throughout the project lifecycle, SPEs often provide feedback to applicants, helping to refine project goals, adjust strategies, or improve alignment with ecosystem needs. If a project encounters unexpected challenges, the SPE can offer guidance on how to adapt while still meeting key objectives.
The Livepeer bounty board is a platform created to facilitate collaboration and reward community members contributing to the Livepeer ecosystem. The bounty board allows the various Livepeer SPE teams to post their needs through a traditional PRD or simple bug tasks on GitHub, and community members can pick up tasks to work on and get compensated. The goal is to provide a place for developers and non-developers to contribute to Livepeer and get rewarded with LPT.