A former Ethereum Foundation contributor has warned that Ethereum faces a potential funding crisis that could emerge within the next 9 to 18 months. Trent Van Epps stated that structural funding changes and a lack of replacement for expired support programs threaten the network’s development capacity and long-term health.
A former Ethereum Foundation contributor has raised concerns about a looming funding crisis for the network’s core development. Trent Van Epps, who recently ended a five-year stint at the organization, stated the risk could become visible within the next nine months.
Van Epps pointed to the Foundation’s philosophy of “Subtraction,” which aims to reduce its influence. He believes this strategy has not effectively encouraged other institutions to fill the resulting funding gaps.
The Ethereum Foundation’s treasury has become increasingly constrained after years of spending. Its announced plan involves gradually reducing annual spending to a 5% endowment-style level by 2030.
The expiration of the Client Incentive Program in April 2026 adds to the pressure. That four-year initiative provided funding to client teams, and no replacement has been announced.
Van Epps estimated that maintaining current development capacity requires roughly $30 million annually. This funds client teams, researchers, and essential coordination efforts across the ecosystem.
Without stable funding, Ethereum risks losing contributors with critical expertise. This could hinder efforts to tackle major challenges like scaling and future threats.
The consequences of underinvestment may not be immediate but could become apparent in 12 to 18 months. Reversing the damage at that point would be more difficult and expensive.
Van Epps echoed recent comments from Vitalik Buterin that the Foundation was never meant to be a permanent caretaker. He called for new institutions and sustainable funding mechanisms to support Ethereum’s long-term development.
