PRESS RELEASE | Sony’s Layer 2, Soneium, Launches Incubation Program for Builders to Create Mini Apps with $250K Prize Pool

*[PRESS RELEASE]*We’re launching Startale Superstars, an incubation program for builders ready to create the next iconic Mini Apps on Soneium, the Ethereum Layer-2 co-developed with Sony Group Corporation.

The program is primarily focused on consumer and gaming projects, the kinds of experiences that make onchain feel natural, fun and easy for everyday users to join. We’re also interested in bringing novel Mini App concepts to market, especially from teams backed by strong product development and go-to-market capabilities that can accelerate Startale App adoption.

If you have an idea or an MVP, this is your chance to turn it into a live Mini App launched directly to real users in the new Startale App. You’ll work side-by-side with the Startale and Soneium teams and receive funding from a $250,000 prize pool. Plus, our network of partners will offer 1:1 strategy sessions, infrastructure perks and meaningful partnerships designed to help you scale fast.Why Build a Startale Mini AppBuild once, reach thousands.

Mini Apps are lightweight, blockchain-native applications that run directly inside the Startale App. They offer the fastest way for builders to reach users by launching instantly inside the Startale App; no websites, no downloads are needed.

Startale App’s integration of Account Abstraction (AA) enables a seamless user experience, so builders can focus on what truly matters: creating engaging and meaningful products.

Superstars winners will receive early access to the STAR Points program, our native rewards system that encourages user engagement and retention within the Startale App. By incentivizing activity across all Mini Apps, STAR Points helps projects grow organically and drive long-term engagement.

Why You Should Join Startale SuperstarsJoining Startale’s incubation program positions your project at the forefront of the Soneium ecosystem with meaningful support that extends far beyond capital.

We’re searching for the next breakthrough application. If you have a project with genuine mass-market appeal, can solve real problems people face every day, or are simply a dedicated builder who wants to showcase how fun and useful the onchain world can be, we want to partner up.

Your Mini App could launch alongside the public release of Startale App, joining the first wave that shapes how people experience the open digital economy.

Superstars winners will receive:* Hands-on BD support to brainstorm, execute ideas and connect with the Startale and Soneium partner network.

• 1:1 Go-to-market advisory sessions with a dedicated Startale team member, providing hands-on mentorship from industry experts and strategic guidance on tokenomics, growth, and go-to-market execution.
• Marketing exposure across high-visibility channels and programs (X, Discord, and incentivised campaigns) with Startale and our partners.
• Access to Soneium’s 260+ project ecosystem, including invitations to private builder groups and community channels.
• Builder support to develop your Mini App, with hundreds of testers ready to try your app before launch.
• Infrastructure perks from Startale App partners and onboarding support from Startale’s product team
• Funding and direct access to Startale and Soneium’s network of partners, investors, and ecosystem leaders.
• Premium placement on Startale App, with top projects highlighted across high-visibility sections.

This incubation aims to connect builders to Startale’s global network across Asia, Europe, and the United States. Winners can expect to continue receiving mentorship, visibility, and access across the Startale and Soneium ecosystem.

“Through Startale Superstars, we’re empowering builders to create applications that anyone can use,” said Sota Watanabe, CEO of Startale Group.“By combining Soneium’s scalability with Startale’s products and extensive network, we’re creating a platform where builders can reach new audiences – including those who have never interacted with blockchain before – and bring the world onchain.”

How to Apply

Applications for the first group of Startale Superstars builders are now open and will follow this timeline:


You’ll find full MVP requirements and an FAQ section linked in the application form, where you can learn more about eligibility, development expectations, and submission details.

A Contact Us link will also be available if you need additional information or guidance before applying.

We’ll work together to build your breakthrough application and facilitate the ideal go-to-market strategy, ensuring optimal timing and rollout to maximise your reach and impact.

If selected as a winner, you’ll join the Startale Superstars incubation program to begin developing your Mini App with the Startale team.About Startale Group

Startale Group is a leading global web3 solutions provider on a mission to build the next civilization by bringing the world onchain.

The company operates Astar Network, Japan’s largest public blockchain, and co-develops Soneium through Sony Block Solutions Labs, a joint venture with Sony Group Corporation. Beyond chain development, Startale also builds consumer and developer products such as the Startale App, which serves as an all-in-one gateway to the Soneium ecosystem and beyond, uniting blockchain-native applications in a single intuitive experience.

At the same time, Startale’s developer platform provides Account Abstraction and high-performance node services that power the next generation of decentralized applications and networks.

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