Insights from Keynote 3: BlockDAG Collects $209.5M Without VCs—Dogecoin Soars 95,900%, & VeChain Falls 43%

Community is the backbone of crypto. Dogecoin capitalized on internet memes to build wealth, while VeChain leveraged its focus on practical applications in global supply chains. Both initiatives built momentum differently, but none matched the initial community backing BlockDAG (BDAG) received.

BlockDAG, unlike many others, gathered over $209.5 million in its crypto presale without any venture capital support. This article examines Dogecoin, VeChain, and BlockDAG—not only their beginnings and offerings but also how their communities influenced their development, value, and future prospects.

Dogecoin: From Meme to Market Sensation

Created in December 2013 by Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer, Dogecoin (DOGE) started as a humorous critique of the crypto world, represented by the famous Shiba Inu meme. Though initially a joke, it rapidly formed a dedicated following that utilized DOGE for web-based tipping and charitable donations.

Priced at roughly $0.0002 initially, Dogecoin remained relatively unnoticed until 2021, when it jumped 216% in a single week to $0.0235—spurred by online endorsements and support from figures like Elon Musk. By May 2021, it hit a peak of $0.7376.

As of March 28, 2025, DOGE is valued at $0.1920—an increase of 95,900% from its early pricing, though 74% below its highest price. Nonetheless, those who kept their shares long-term witnessed substantial gains.

Dogecoin utilizes a proof-of-work protocol, akin to Bitcoin. However, it has an inflationary supply strategy, releasing 10,000 new coins each minute, showcasing how a blend of humor, community, and popular culture can generate real financial value.

VeChain: Transforming Supply Chain Operations

Launched in 2015 by Sunny Lu, VeChain (VET) aimed to revolutionize supply chains using blockchain technology, initially focusing on high-end goods to prevent forgeries, later broadening to logistics, agriculture, and the automotive industry.

VeChain employs a two-token system: VET for transactions and VTHO for network fees, which aids in keeping costs predictable for business users. Its proof-of-authority (PoA) consensus model promotes efficient and environmentally friendly operations through chosen validators.

As of March 28, 2025, VET is priced at $0.0260, down 43.9% from the previous year. Despite this, with a market capitalization of $2.24 billion, it ranks as the 45th largest crypto, maintaining significant market presence.

VeChain’s modern tools provide businesses the ability to monitor product integrity, authenticity, and transportation in real time. It has secured partnerships with leading companies and institutions, demonstrating its practical value despite market volatility, and stands as a viable choice for those interested in blockchain-enabled business solutions.

How BlockDAG's Community Support Generated $209.5M Pre-VC

BlockDAG garnered $209.5 million in its initial presale, a feat accomplished without the backing of institutional funds. This significant achievement came directly from everyday users who recognized the project’s potential and committed to its goals. Their support and belief established a strong foundation for what became one of the most discussed presales in the crypto space.

Currently, in Batch 27, BlockDAG has distributed over 19 billion coins globally, with each coin now priced at $0.0248, reflecting a 2,380% return since Batch 1—a level of success rarely seen in venture-backed endeavors. This organic growth, achieved without initial VC funding, is a testament to the project’s solid base and vision.

This surge in grassroots support is not just a statistic; it's validation. It proves that projects rooted in clear fundamentals and transparent objectives can thrive on community involvement alone. The focus has been on genuine engagement and long-term vision, not transient excitement.

With the Beta Testnet operational, mining hardware being rolled out, and significant partnerships forming, BlockDAG is leveraging its community-driven foundation to enhance its operations. As institutional interest grows, BlockDAG continues to build on this momentum, driven by a community that has been integral from the start.

Community Commitment as a Catalyst for Growth

In the domain of cryptocurrencies, the significance of numbers is often highlighted, but the power of community engagement holds a deeper impact. Dogecoin gained its popularity through playful viral campaigns, while VeChain established its mark by integrating blockchain into business processes. In contrast, BlockDAG has carved a unique path; its community didn’t just support it—they were pivotal in raising over $209.5 million in crypto presale before any institutional money was involved.

This remarkable community support stems from a deep-seated belief in the project's mission, not merely from speculative hype. As these projects evolve, BlockDAG serves as a reminder of the profound impact of early community support—not only reflected in its valuation but also in its robust participation and trust, which have been fundamental from the outset.

Presale: https://purchase.blockdag.network

Website: https://blockdag.network

Telegram: https://t.me/blockDAGnetworkOfficial

Discord: https://discord.gg/Q7BxghMVyu