Nostr notes by Btrust Builders

We just wrapped up week 4 of the live cohort of the Bitcoin CLI ...

2026-04-09T17:37:00Z

We just wrapped up week 4 of the live cohort of the Bitcoin CLI pathway. 🚀

During the week the cohort explored how Bitcoin transactions can go beyond simple payments.

In chapter 8, we learned how transactions can include additional conditions. Participants explored locktime, which allows a transaction to be valid only at a certain time or block height, and OP_RETURN, which makes it possible to attach small pieces of data to the blockchain. These features show how bitcoin transactions can be more flexible than just sending funds.

In chapter 9, the focus shifted to Bitcoin Script, the programming language that defines how bitcoin can be spent. The cohort explored how scripts set the rules for transactions, and why testing scripts is important when designing spending conditions.

Throughout the week, participants reviewed the study materials, completed the technical exercises, and met with their assigned partners to discuss key questions.

During the live study session, participants shared their insights and faculty members led short discussions with the group.

Week 4 helped the cohort move from basic transactions to understanding the scripting logic that powers Bitcoin.

We just concluded week 5 of the Mastering Bitcoin live cohort. ...

2026-04-08T17:50:46Z

We just concluded week 5 of the Mastering Bitcoin live cohort. 📚

This week focused on transaction fees and the structure of the Bitcoin network.

Participants explored how Bitcoin transactions compete for block space through fee rates, how wallets estimate appropriate fees, and mechanisms such as Replace‑By‑Fee (RBF) and Child Pays for Parent (CPFP) that allow transactions to be confirmed faster when needed.

The cohort also examined how the Bitcoin peer‑to‑peer network functions, including how nodes connect and discover peers, how blocks and transactions propagate across the network, and the roles of full nodes, lightweight clients, and mining nodes.

We further explored mempools, block relay, and how different node types interact to maintain the decentralized network.

Throughout the week, participants reviewed the assigned materials, collaborated with their partners, and worked through discussion questions to deepen their understanding.

During the live session, participants shared insights with the group and led a short discussion on key ideas from the readings.

We’ve just wrapped up week 3 of the Bitcoin CLI live cohort. ...

2026-04-02T17:36:06Z

We’ve just wrapped up week 3 of the Bitcoin CLI live cohort.

Over the past week, participants explored chapters 6 and 7, diving deeper into how Bitcoin transactions can be expanded beyond the basics through multisignatures and Partially Signed Bitcoin Transactions (PSBTs).

The focus was on understanding how multiple parties can collaboratively create and authorize transactions. Participants learned how to create and manage multisig wallets, spend from them, and think through real-world use cases where shared control of funds is essential.

They also worked through the PSBT workflow, gaining hands-on experience with constructing, funding, and signing transactions across different stages.

Throughout the week, participants applied these concepts through practical exercises and met with their study partners to discuss key ideas, compare approaches, and deepen their understanding.

We then came together for the live session, where participants shared their insights, walked through their solutions, and led discussions on the challenges and possibilities unlocked by multisigs and PSBTs.

This week we wrapped up Week 4 of the live cohort, continuing our ...

2026-04-01T18:28:36Z

This week we wrapped up Week 4 of the live cohort, continuing our deep dive into how Bitcoin enforces rules and verifies transactions.

Over the past week, participants studied chapters 7 and 8 of Mastering Bitcoin, met with their learning partners to discuss the material, and then came together for the group session.

The week began with a closer look at authorization and authentication in Bitcoin. Instead of relying on identities, Bitcoin uses scripts to define the conditions for spending funds. The group explored how these scripts are evaluated, and how transactions are only valid when those conditions are satisfied.

From there, the conversation moved into Bitcoin Script itself. Participants looked at how the stack-based language works, how input and output scripts are combined during validation, and how different script types like P2PKH, multisig, and P2SH are used in practice. The group also discussed timelocks and how they can restrict when funds are spendable.

After building a foundation with scripts, the cohort shifted into digital signatures. Participants learned how signatures prove ownership of funds, authorize transactions, and protect transaction data from being altered. The group walked through how signatures are created and verified using private and public keys.

The discussions also covered the differences between ECDSA and Schnorr signatures, and why Schnorr offers improvements in simplicity, efficiency, and privacy. Participants explored how signatures can commit to different parts of a transaction using SIGHASH flags, enabling more flexible transaction designs.

A key focus was the importance of randomness in signing. The group reflected on how reusing a nonce can expose a private key, reinforcing how small implementation details can have serious consequences.

By the end of the session, participants had a clearer picture of how Bitcoin enforces spending conditions and verifies transactions without relying on trust. The discussions helped connect scripting and signatures into one coherent system that underpins how Bitcoin works.

We’ve just wrapped up week 2 of the Bitcoin CLI live cohort. ...

2026-03-26T17:42:36Z

We’ve just wrapped up week 2 of the Bitcoin CLI live cohort.

Over the past week, participants worked through chapters 4 and 5 of the course, continuing to build practical experience interacting with Bitcoin through the command line.

The readings and exercises focused on how transactions are sent using bitcoin-cli, and how developers can better understand and manage transactions once they’ve been broadcast to the network.

Throughout the week, participants practiced the concepts through hands‑on exercises and met with their study partners to discuss the key ideas from the chapters.

We came together today for the live session with faculty, where participants shared what they learned, walked through their questions, and discussed some of the challenges they encountered while working through the exercises.

This week we wrapped up week 3 of the live cohort of the ...

2026-03-25T17:31:16Z

This week we wrapped up week 3 of the live cohort of the Mastering Bitcoin pathway, continuing our deep dive into how Bitcoin works under the hood.

Over the past week, participants studied chapters 5 and 6 of Mastering Bitcoin and met with their learning partners to talk through the material before joining the group session with faculty.

The week began with a closer look at bitcoin wallets and recovery. Bitcoin wallets don’t actually store bitcoins. Instead, they store the keys that give someone control over the bitcoins recorded on the blockchain. The group discussed how early wallets generated keys independently, which meant users had to back up their wallets frequently to avoid losing access to funds.

From there, the conversation moved to how modern wallets solve this problem using deterministic key generation. Participants learned how a single random seed can be used to generate many keys and addresses, making it possible to recover an entire wallet from one backup. The group also explored hierarchical deterministic (HD) wallets, which organize keys in a tree structure and allow wallets to create new addresses while keeping private keys secure.

The discussions also touched on recovery phrases, often called seed phrases, and why backing them up safely is essential. Participants reflected on how these recovery systems help users protect their funds while still making wallets practical to use.

After exploring wallets and recovery, the cohort moved into bitcoin transactions and how value actually moves across the network. Instead of coins being physically transferred, Bitcoin works by updating a shared record that shows which keys control which bitcoins.

Participants unpacked how transactions are structured, looking at the roles of inputs and outputs. Inputs reference previously received funds, while outputs define where the bitcoin will go next and the conditions required to spend it.

The group also explored several deeper parts of the transaction structure, including scripts, witness data, and Segregated Witness (SegWit). These components help verify that transactions are authorized and make the system more efficient and secure.

By the end of the session, participants had a clearer picture of how wallets manage keys and how transactions move value through the network. The discussions helped connect the ideas from earlier chapters about keys and cryptography with the practical mechanics of sending and receiving bitcoin.

We just kicked off the first 2026 live cohort of the Bitcoin CLI ...

2026-03-19T17:55:12Z

We just kicked off the first 2026 live cohort of the Bitcoin CLI pathway, bringing participants together to begin exploring how to work directly with Bitcoin using the command line.🚀

Over the past week, participants worked through the opening chapters of the course, starting with an introduction to why learning Bitcoin through Bitcoin Core and its command‑line tools matters. The readings explored how Bitcoin differs from traditional payment systems, and why developers often interact directly with the core software to build reliable applications on the network.

From there, the cohort moved into setting up their own Bitcoin environments. Participants learned how to deploy a Bitcoin Core node on a VPS, exploring the different types of nodes that can run on the network and the trade‑offs between them. Along the way, they discussed the differences between mainnet, testnet, and regtest, and why testnet is useful for experimentation and development.

Once their environments were running, participants began getting familiar with bitcoin-cli, the command‑line interface used to interact with a Bitcoin node. They practiced verifying that their nodes were running correctly, exploring the structure of their Bitcoin setup, and using basic wallet commands such as generating new addresses to receive testnet bitcoin.

Throughout the week, participants paired up with study partners to talk through the discussion questions, compare their experiences setting up their nodes, and work through the technical exercise provided in the course materials.

These conversations came together in the group study session with faculty, where participants shared what they discovered, asked questions, and reflected on what it means to run and interact with Bitcoin infrastructure directly.

We've just concluded week 2 of the live cohort for the ...

2026-03-18T18:04:57Z

We've just concluded week 2 of the live cohort for the Mastering Bitcoin pathway. 📚

Over the past week, participants studied chapters 3 and 4 of Mastering Bitcoin, discussing the material with their learning partners before coming together for our live session with the faculty.

The conversations focused on how Bitcoin actually works behind the scenes. We explored Bitcoin Core as the reference implementation, what it means to run a full node, and why independent verification is such an important part of the network.

We also examined how developers interact with Bitcoin Core through tools like the command line and JSON‑RPC.

From there, we moved into the foundations of Bitcoin cryptography. Participants unpacked how private and public keys work, how signatures prove ownership, and how addresses are derived to make sending and receiving bitcoin possible.

Week by week, it’s all starting to come together. On to the next! 🚀

This week we kicked off the first live cohort of the Mastering ...

2026-03-11T18:43:25Z

This week we kicked off the first live cohort of the Mastering Bitcoin program, bringing together participants, faculty, and the Btrust team for the start of a deep dive into how Bitcoin actually works.

Over the course of the week, participants explored the foundations of Bitcoin through the opening chapters of Mastering Bitcoin by Andreas M. Antonopoulos.

The discussions started with understanding Bitcoin not just as digital money, but as a system made up of several technologies working together.

The group unpacked how Bitcoin enables value to move across the internet without relying on centralized intermediaries, and how the network itself is built around open protocols that anyone can run and verify.

From there, conversations moved into the mechanics of how the system operates. The group unpacked key components of the Bitcoin ecosystem, including wallets, cryptographic keys, transactions, the peer-to-peer network, and miners.

To make these ideas more concrete, participants also walked through the lifecycle of a Bitcoin transaction, from creation in a wallet, to broadcast across the network, validation by nodes, and eventual inclusion in the blockchain.

Over the next few weeks, participants will continue building their understanding step by step, moving from these first principles toward the deeper technical layers of the protocol.

As the Btrust Builders program continues to grow, we’ve learned ...

2026-03-04T15:23:22Z

As the Btrust Builders program continues to grow, we’ve learned that scale should never come at the cost of quality or faculty well‑being.

That’s why our 2026 pathways introduce a new hybrid engagement model designed to serve more developers without compromising the learning experience.

In 2026, each pathway runs in two formats: a high‑touch live cohort and an open self‑paced track. This approach allows us to combine structure and flexibility, giving every developer a way to learn that fits their experience, schedule, and goals.

The live cohort is more in-depth. Each one is capped at around 100 learners, guided by chaperones, and built around weekly sessions, breakout groups, and feedback loops.

It’s designed for developers who are ready for structure, accountability, and peer discussion. Live cohorts provide strong signaling for fellowship readiness, making them a great fit for learners seeking an intensive, guided experience.

The self‑paced track is the default mode and just as central to the Builders experience. It gives learners full access to all pathway content, a dedicated community channel, pacing guides to help them stay consistent, and scheduled office hours for support.

It’s an intentional, supported route for independent learners who want to move at their own speed and still remain connected to the Builders community.

Every participant, live or self‑paced, is part of one Builders ecosystem. You can start self‑paced, join a live cohort later, and, when ready, progress toward the Open Source Fellowship. The goal is to make sure learning never stops, regardless of where you begin.

We’ve also refined how developers are selected into live cohorts to maintain both diversity and readiness. These filters are applied intentionally but never rigidly, readiness and quality always come first.

Both Q1 2026 Pathways, Mastering Bitcoin and Learn Bitcoin from the Command Line, will follow this hybrid model.

Learners can choose the path that fits them best. Those who want structure and accountability can join the live cohort, while those who prefer independence and flexibility can dive into the self‑paced track with full Builder support.

This model helps us reach more learners, sustain our faculty, and keep the Builders learning experience consistently excellent as we scale across Africa.

Learn more about the pathways and the hybrid model here: https://pathways.btrust.tech/index

Bitcoin’s open‑source ecosystem only thrives when ...

2026-02-16T16:05:46Z

Bitcoin’s open‑source ecosystem only thrives when contributors are supported not just to learn, but to stay, grow, and lead.

In 2026, we’re evolving Btrust Builders into a scaled, high‑quality contributor pipeline designed for long‑term impact. This year’s program builds directly on the insights from our 2025 Builders experience, with clearer structure, stronger systems, and a deeper commitment to sustained open‑source contribution.

The 2026 Builders journey is designed as one continuous path. Developers enter through open applications or via the BOSS challenge, move through structured learning pathways, accelerate through a selective Open Source Fellowship, and progress toward grants, long‑term contribution, and ecosystem roles.

What makes Builders 2026 different is our focus on durable outcomes. We care about retention as much as graduation. We care about whether developers are still contributing six to twelve months later. And we care deeply about creating a program that is sustainable for both participants and faculty.

This year includes multiple entry points, clearly defined pathways, an always‑on Resource Hub, a ten‑week Open Source Fellowship, and a calendar that creates a steady rhythm of learning, contribution, and outcomes throughout the year.

If you’re a developer interested in contributing to Bitcoin open‑source, or someone exploring what that journey looks like, we invite you to learn more.

Read the full blog to understand the 2026 program design, explore the Builders Pathways, check out the 2026 program calendar and apply to join this year’s cohorts: https://blog.btrust.tech/introducing-the-2026-btrust-builders-program/

If you’re not ready to apply yet, the Builders Resource Hub (https://pathways.btrust.tech/resource-hub) is always available and designed to help you start learning and making your first contributions.

In 2025, we took a major step forward in strengthening Africa’s ...

2026-01-27T10:12:53Z

In 2025, we took a major step forward in strengthening Africa’s Bitcoin developer pipeline through the Btrust Builders program. 🚀

Over the course of the year, 493 developers across Africa and beyond were supported through Builders pathways, selected from 1,800+ applications, a 180% increase from the previous year.

Developers joined from 15+ countries, spanning West, East, Central, and Southern Africa, with additional participation from South America, Europe, and South Asia.

We evolved from a single‑cohort program into a continuous, modular learning pipeline, supporting developers at different stages; from first exposure to Bitcoin, through hands-on technical learning, and into real open‑source contributions.

In 2025, we delivered:
• Foundational learning through Mastering Bitcoin
• Hands‑on technical practice via Bitcoin from the Command Line
• Protocol‑level development in Rust for Bitcoiners
• Programming fundamentals through Language Clubs (Python & C++)
• Advanced open‑source onboarding through Start Your Career in BOSS

To bridge learning and contribution, we also launched our first Open Source Bootcamp. Over four weeks, 38 developers from 7 countries submitted 103 code contributions, opened 50+ pull requests, and saw 12 PRs merged, including 3 to Bitcoin Core.

The impact went well beyond training. Several Builders alumni transitioned into fully funded open‑source work, supported by Btrust (nprofile…6lmj) and HRF (nprofile…jrvw), contributing to projects like Bitcoin Core, LDK Node, BlueWallet, Bitcoin Dev Kit, and Rust‑Payjoin. Others went on to start their own Bitcoin projects, applying what they learned to build new tools and infrastructure in the ecosystem.

We also launched the Builders Resource Hub, which has since been widely shared across the Bitcoin developer ecosystem as a go‑to learning library for open‑source contribution, tooling, and deep technical study. Check it out here: https://pathways.btrust.tech/resource-hub

In recognition of this work, the African Bitcoiners (nprofile…0meq) team named Btrust Builders the 2025 African Bitcoin Project of the Year at the 2025 afrobitcoindotorg (nprofile…qhqt).

All this was made possible by the dedication of faculty and chaperones, many of whom are alumni themselves; mentors who gave their time, experience, and patience; and the core Builders team, including Stephanie Titcombe, the program lead, and Kelvin Isievwore, the engineering lead, who carried the vision from design through delivery.

Just as importantly, the wider Builders community, learners, alumni, contributors, and supporters, shaped the culture that made collaboration, accountability, and growth possible.🧡

We’ve shared what worked, what we learned, and how Builders has grown into a long‑term contributor pipeline helping decentralize Bitcoin development.

➡️ Read the full blog for more: https://blog.btrust.tech/strengthening-africas-bitcoin-developer-pipeline-reflections-from-2025/

Last call 🚨 Today’s the final day to apply for the BOSS ...

2025-12-31T07:47:56Z

Last call 🚨

Today’s the final day to apply for the BOSS Challenge by Chaincode Labs.

If you’ve been thinking about getting into Bitcoin open-source development, this is your sign.

Apply to join the 2026 cohort here: https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/chaincodelabs/jobs/4067627009

1 day to go! 🚨 Thinking about a career in Bitcoin open-source ...

2025-12-30T14:19:34Z

1 day to go! 🚨

Thinking about a career in Bitcoin open-source development?

The BOSS Challenge by Chaincode Labs is designed to help developers take their first steps into the Bitcoin open-source ecosystem.

Alumni from previous cohorts have gone on to build funded careers in open-source development.

Applications close tomorrow, and you have until January 12 to complete the preliminary challenge (Saving Satoshi).

Apply to join the 2026 cohort here: https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/chaincodelabs/jobs/4067627009

Only 3 days left to apply for the 2026 ₿OSS Challenge 🚨 ...

2025-12-28T06:52:22Z

Only 3 days left to apply for the 2026 ₿OSS Challenge 🚨

Applications close on December 31st, and once you’ve applied, you’ll have until January 12th to complete the @savingsatoshi challenge.

Learn more and apply to join the cohort here: https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/chaincodelabs/jobs/4067627009

“The ₿OSS program was intense, fast‑paced, and fun. It ...

2025-12-18T10:11:09Z

“The ₿OSS program was intense, fast‑paced, and fun. It changed my life.” Chuks

Meet Chuks, a software engineer from Lagos 🇳🇬, one of the outstanding 2025 ₿OSS alumni whose journey embodies what the program is all about: growth, contribution, and impact.

With over eight years of experience building and maintaining complex software systems, Chuks joined the BOSS Challenge eager to expand his understanding of Bitcoin and Lightning Network development.

The program helped him dive deep into open‑source collaboration, system architecture, and critical protocol work, areas that now define his career.

Since graduating, Chuks has contributed extensively to key Bitcoin and Lightning open‑source projects, including Lightning Dev Kit (LDK), LDK‑Node, and SimLN, where his improvements have strengthened code reliability, testing infrastructure, and payment protocols.

He’s also building PeepsWire, a Lightning‑powered video calling application showcasing how Bitcoin can drive real‑world innovation.

Today, Chuks continues to work full‑time in the ecosystem through the Btrust (nprofile…6lmj) starter grant, accelerating his work on BIP 353 integration (Human‑Readable payment addresses) and improving simulation tools that help developers test and advance the Lightning Network.

Chuks’ journey started with the ₿OSS program, and now continues through funded open‑source work that’s shaping the future of Bitcoin engineering.

Ready to begin your open‑source journey? Applications for the 2026 ₿OSS Challenge, by Chaincode Labs, are open.

This structured, hands‑on program helps new developers take their first steps into Bitcoin open‑source, gain mentorship, and build a path toward sustainable, funded careers, just like Chuks did.

🗓️ Applications close: December 31st, 2025
🗓️ Program starts: Week of January 12th, 2026

📝 Apply for the 2026 cohort: https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/chaincodelabs/jobs/4067627009

🔗 Learn more about the program: https://blog.btrust.tech/btrust-builders-chaincode-labs-partner-again-for-the-2026-boss-challenge/

“The ₿OSS challenge really helped me think deeply about ...

2025-12-17T10:46:52Z

“The ₿OSS challenge really helped me think deeply about Bitcoin and learn more about it and open‑source development.” Rita, 2025 ₿OSS alumna.

Meet Rita, a Lagos🇳🇬‑based software developer and one of the 2025 ₿OSS alumni.

Before joining the program, Rita already had over three years of experience building and improving fintech and logistics solutions. But her time in the ₿OSS program became a turning point.

Through the program, she deepened her understanding of Bitcoin technologies and the Lightning Network, contributing to major open‑source projects like LDK Node, Warnet, and CircuitBreaker; critical components that underpin the scalability and resilience of Btrust (nprofile…6lmj) grantee, Rita is continuing her work full‑time on LDK Node and Warnet, focusing on improving transaction lifecycle management, payment tracking, and developer tools to make Bitcoin infrastructure even more reliable and user‑friendly.

Rita’s journey is a great example of what’s possible through the BOSS Challenge, created by Chaincode Labs. This is a structured, hands‑on program designed to help developers start building open‑source Bitcoin projects and grow into funded contributors.

Ready to build your own Bitcoin story? Applications are ongoing for the 2026 BOSS cohort. If you’re a developer passionate about learning, contributing, and building for Bitcoin, this is your chance.

🗓️ Applications close December 31, 2025
🗓️ Program starts the week of January 12, 2026

🔗 Learn more about the program: https://blog.btrust.tech/btrust-builders-chaincode-labs-partner-again-for-the-2026-boss-challenge/

📝 Apply for the 2026 cohort: https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/chaincodelabs/jobs/4067627009

Meet Shammah Agwor, one of the 2025 BOSS alumni, a passionate ...

2025-12-16T14:41:40Z

Meet Shammah Agwor, one of the 2025 BOSS alumni, a passionate software engineer from Port Harcourt, Nigeria 🇳🇬, who has steadily grown into an active Bitcoin open‑source contributor.

Shammah’s journey began long before joining the BOSS program. With a background in security engineering and years of experience in backend systems, he discovered his true calling in Bitcoin open‑source development.

Through the program, he deepened his work in Rust‑Payjoin, a privacy‑enhancing Bitcoin project focused on improving transaction privacy and disrupting common input ownership heuristics.

Today, Shammah continues to contribute full‑time to Bitcoin open-source. His work on Rust‑Payjoin includes major improvements like metrics collection for adoption tracking, caching mechanisms for performance, and better code structure for maintainability, all critical to strengthening Bitcoin’s privacy layer and reliability.

Shammah’s ongoing impact as a Btrust (nprofile…6lmj)‑funded grantee reflects what’s possible for African developers who take that first step into the ₿OSS ecosystem.

Ready to start your own Bitcoin open‑source journey? Applications are now open for the 2026 ₿OSS Challenge, in partnership with Chaincode Labs.

This is your chance to gain hands‑on experience, mentorship, and a pathway into the global Bitcoin open‑source community, just like Shammah did.

🔗 Learn more about the program: https://blog.btrust.tech/btrust-builders-chaincode-labs-partner-again-for-the-2026-boss-challenge/

📝 Apply for the 2026 cohort: https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/chaincodelabs/jobs/4067627009

A week after the @nprofile…qhqt, we’re still feeling the ...

2025-12-12T12:32:36Z

A week after the afrobitcoindotorg (nprofile…qhqt), we’re still feeling the excitement. 🙌🎉

This year was especially meaningful as we were recognized as the African Bitcoin Project of the Year, a huge honor we're grateful to the African Bitcoiners (nprofile…0meq) team for.

Some of our community members also hosted workshops, we connected with builders from across the world, and the sessions throughout the conference were incredibly insightful. The conversations opened up fresh perspectives and sparked exciting ideas.

We’re grateful to Btrust (nprofile…6lmj) for the chance to be part of it, and we’re already looking forward to the next one.

Till then, we keep building 🚀

#ABC25 #ABC2025

Thank you so much! This means the world to us.🥹🧡 From the ...

2025-12-12T08:20:18Z

Thank you so much! This means the world to us.🥹🧡 From the bottom of our hearts, we're grateful.

To our builders, faculty, chaperones, mentors, and the entire community, this award is yours. We wouldn't have achieved this without your dedication, belief, and hard work.

We're honoured to keep building for, and with, all of you. 💪🚀

quoting
nevent1q…sen7
🌍Celebrating Btrust Builders as the African Bitcoin Project of the Year for 2025!

We are honored to recognize Btrust Builders (npub1353…gajp) as the African Bitcoin Project of the Year. They have fundamentally shifted the narrative from "adoption" to "creation," giving African engineers the keys to the repo.

In 2025, their impact was structural and profound. As The Talent Engine, they forged a continent-wide network of open-source contributors, producing several heavyweights.

For Funding the Future, ₿trust disbursed over $1 million in grants this year alone, fueling the hackathons, stipends, and fellowships that keep the open-source ecosystem alive. Through Global Leadership, and building on the strategic acquisition of Qala, they proved that Africa isn't catching up, but leading the development of Bitcoin and Lightning at the protocol level.

We deeply appreciate Btrust Builders for ensuring that the revolution is being coded by the people it serves.

You are the backbone.

We recently had the pleasure of participating in the 2025 ...

2025-12-12T08:18:25Z

We recently had the pleasure of participating in the 2025 #BtrustGathering in Mauritius🇲🇺.

Our faculty, several alumni, now Btrust (nprofile…6lmj) grantees, and top students from the 2025 pathways were all represented.

Our program lead, Stephanie Titcombe, walked attendees through our 2025 program report, highlighting achievements like the program redesign (https://pathways.btrust.tech/) and the strengthened support plan for builders in the BOSS program.

We also spent time collaborating with builders and Global South programs to explore ideas that will help us refine and elevate our work going into 2026.

It was great finally meeting people we’ve only worked with online and reconnecting with familiar faces.

Looking forward to the work ahead. 💪

We’re excited to partner with Chaincode Labs once again for the ...

2025-12-12T08:14:29Z

We’re excited to partner with Chaincode Labs once again for the 2026 BOSS (Bitcoin Open‑Source Software) Challenge. 🚀

The ₿OSS Challenge is a structured, hands‑on program designed to help developers take their first steps into Bitcoin open‑source development.

Here’s how it works:
🔸 Month 1: A fully guided, hands‑on learning experience featuring coding exercises, mentorship, and technical discussions led by Bitcoin open‑source contributors.
🔸 Months 2 & 3: Top performers continue with advanced mentorship and project work through Chaincode Labs, while other participants engage in partner‑supported pathways to keep learning and building.

This program has already helped developers across Africa launch into meaningful open‑source careers. Several participants from the 2025 cohort are now Btrust-funded grantees contributing full‑time to Bitcoin and Lightning projects.

If you’re a developer ready to learn, build, and contribute to Bitcoin open‑source software, this is your opportunity.

🗓️ Applications are ongoing until December 31st, 2025.
🗓️ Program starts the week of January 12th, 2026.

Learn more about the partnership and program in our latest blog post: https://blog.btrust.tech/btrust-builders-chaincode-labs-partner-again-for-the-2026-boss-challenge/

👉 Apply to join the 2026 ₿OSS Challenge cohort here: https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/chaincodelabs/jobs/4067627009

Last Saturday, BitDevs Kano 🇳🇬 held their first Bitcoin and ...

2025-10-18T12:20:00Z

Last Saturday, BitDevs Kano 🇳🇬 held their first Bitcoin and Lightning-powered hackathon exploring open-source solutions for EdTech challenges in Nigeria.

Over 50 participants spent the day forming teams, building prototypes, and exchanging ideas on how blockchain and Lightning technology can improve access and transparency in education. Mentors guided the process, and quick lightning talks sparked fresh thinking between coding sessions.

The event highlighted Bitcoin’s potential in tackling real-world challenges while strengthening Kano’s growing developer community.

Behind every successful Btrust Builders cohort is a faculty team ...

2025-09-26T09:20:11Z

Behind every successful Btrust Builders cohort is a faculty team whose dedication carries the program forward. 🧡

This year, many of them, alumni themselves, returned to mentor, teach and walk alongside participants, turning their own experiences into guidance for the next wave of open‑source Bitcoin and Lightning developers.

We’re proud to celebrate this collective of builders and mentors who made this year’s journey so meaningful. Their stories are inspiring, and their contributions remind us that the heart of Btrust Builders lies in its people.

👉 Read more about them on our blog: https://blog.btrust.tech/celebrating-our-faculty-the-heart-of-btrust-builders/

We’re excited to share Bitcoin Core Principles by ...

2025-09-05T10:27:28Z

We’re excited to share Bitcoin Core Principles by La Librería de Satoshi (nprofile…g4q2) 🚀

This course goes beyond how Bitcoin works to explain why it was designed with decentralization, absolute scarcity, and immutability, and why the base layer changes slowly on purpose.

During the course you’ll cover:
• The philosophy of decentralization and the trade-offs that keep Bitcoin neutral.
• Why scarcity matters, how the timechain protects history, and why finality is social as much as technical.
• Fungibility, privacy, and scalability across layers.
• How change happens: BIPs, social consensus, activation paths, real case studies.
• The developer ethos: humility, ossification, and building for the long term.

Participants will engage in socratic, discussion-led sessions rather than passive lectures. They’ll also work through curated readings and hands-on workshops to cement their understanding. There will be experienced facilitators to guide participants through the sessions.

Application deadline is October 10th, 2025

Classes start on October 13th and will be happening every Monday & Wednesday.

The course is offered in English, Spanish and Portuguese.

🔗 Learn more, apply and share with a friend: https://www.libreriadesatoshi.com/courses/bitcoin-core-principles

We're super excited to announce the graduates of our ...

2025-08-07T14:28:30Z

We're super excited to announce the graduates of our first-ever Rust for Bitcoiners and Language Clubs cohorts. 🥳🎉

These talented developers from over 15 countries dedicated themselves to acquiring the core skills needed for open-source Bitcoin projects.

We've captured all the highlights, insights from the cohorts, and what's next in our full recap, which you can read here: https://blog.btrust.tech/q2-2025-btrust-builders-pathways-graduation/

If you're interested in joining upcoming cohorts, keep an eye out on our Discord and application page for details: https://www.btrust.tech/builders/apply

Do you get frustrated with how today’s digital payments seem to ...

2025-08-07T04:22:05Z

Do you get frustrated with how today’s digital payments seem to demand a tradeoff; forcing you to give up your privacy, pay high fees, or worry about data breaches every time you accept a transaction?

Many merchants and shoppers feel boxed in by systems that leave a trail of personal information behind with every tap or scan, making privacy feel like a thing of the past.

But what if you didn’t have to choose between fast, modern payments and the anonymity of cash?

In our latest blog, Tobechi, a Btrust (nprofile…6lmj) grantee, introduces Cashu, a digital cash protocol that lets merchants enjoy the best of both worlds.

With Cashu, you can accept Bitcoin-backed payments instantly and privately, without exposing customer data or risking chargebacks.

The blog breaks down exactly how Cashu works, explaining the roles of tokens, wallets, and mints in this ecosystem. He explores ways businesses can benefit from Cashu. You’ll also find a simple guide on how to start accepting Cashu payments using BTCPay Server so you can quickly bring digital cash into your store.

Curious how Cashu can transform your business and give your customers true payment privacy? Check out the full blog post here: https://blog.btrust.tech/e-cash-for-commerce-how-cashu-empowers-merchants-via-bitcoin-2/

We did it! Our very first Open-Source Bootcamp brought together ...

2025-07-04T17:02:47Z

We did it! Our very first Open-Source Bootcamp brought together 38 developers from Africa and Brazil, equipping them to make contributions to Bitcoin open-source projects like Bitcoin Core and BTCPay Server.🚀

Over 4 weeks, this diverse group submitted 103 pieces of code, learned from experienced maintainers, and gained the skills and confidence to shape the future of open source.

👏 Kudos to everyone who joined, and an extra congratulations to those who made it to the end.

🔗 Check out our blog to see their journey, impact, and see what’s coming up: https://blog.btrust.tech/celebrating-our-first-open-source-bootcamp/

Unlock the future of Bitcoin node performance with our newest ...

2025-06-23T11:59:50Z

Unlock the future of Bitcoin node performance with our newest blog, Schnorr and Steady Wins the Race: The Case for Batch Validation.

Oghenovo dives deep into how BIP340 Schnorr signatures and batch verification are transforming the efficiency of Bitcoin Core, explaining the math behind it, the use of multi-scalar multiplication, and the real benchmark data that demonstrates faster block verification times.

As Taproot continues to gain traction and new technologies like Silent Payments, MuSig2, and FROST drive even greater Schnorr adoption, these optimisation techniques become essential to keep Bitcoin scalable, private, and secure.

If you want to understand the mechanics of batch validation or see the real-world impact on block validation speed, this article covers that and sets the stage for the next era of Bitcoin scalability.

Read the full article here: https://blog.btrust.tech/schnorr-and-steady-wins-the-race-the-case-for-batch-validation/

Last week, BitDevs Gitega 🇧🇮 hosted its very first meetup! ...

2025-06-19T11:40:51Z

Last week, BitDevs Gitega 🇧🇮 hosted its very first meetup!

The community came together to explore Bitcoin and open-source development, with the team introducing BitDevs and breaking down the basics of Bitcoin and Lightning⚡.

If you're in Gitega, come learn, build, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

For more info, visit: bitdevsgtga.org

Here’s to the first of many! 🚀

Last Saturday, BitDevs Lagos 🇳🇬 hosted another meetup, ...

2025-06-04T11:28:21Z

Last Saturday, BitDevs Lagos 🇳🇬 hosted another meetup, bringing the community together for a hands-on and insightful session.

Peter introduced the Bitcoin Development Kit (BDK) and the BDK CLI tool, showing how these can be used to build Bitcoin applications, manage wallets, sync data, and handle transactions with ease.

Chigala then dove into Bitcoin scripting. He explained what OP_Codes are, how Bitcoin scripts operate using a stack-based model, and demonstrated how to construct scripts using different OP_Codes. With Bitscript (https://www.bitscript.app/), attendees had an interactive playground to experiment and test scripts themselves, making complex ideas more accessible.

The meetup also marked Bitcoin Pizza Day, with plenty of pizza, great company, and vibrant conversations all around. 🍕

BitDevs Lagos remains one of the most active and longest-running BitDevs communities in Africa, thanks to the dedication of the organizers and the energy of everyone who attends.

A huge thank you to Peter, Enyeazu, Tobechi and everyone who joined. See you at the next one!

BitDevs Uyo 🇳🇬 recently held its inaugural meetup, marking ...

2025-06-02T13:15:16Z

BitDevs Uyo 🇳🇬 recently held its inaugural meetup, marking the latest BitDevs location to be supported by Btrust. 🚀

Participants explored the why behind Bitcoin, dove into hands-on wallet setups, shared sats with each other, and learned how wallets, transactions, and nodes work under the hood.

The meetup also introduced everyone to the wider Builders community and shared opportunities to get involved in open source development.

A huge thank you to the BitDevs Uyo organizers for a great start, and kudos to all the speakers who made the day so insightful.

Check them out and follow them on X through their website: https://bitdevsuyo.org/

After a long pause, BitDevs Kampala 🇺🇬 made a comeback last ...

2025-05-28T18:00:49Z

After a long pause, BitDevs Kampala 🇺🇬 made a comeback last Friday. The meetup brought together over 40 developers, students, and Bitcoin enthusiasts for an evening of learning and connection.

The session, hosted by Jemimah Nagasha and MC’d by Wafoyo Angella, featured speakers Angella Mulikatete and Brindon Mwiine.

Topics ranged from Bitcoin 101 and common misconceptions to getting started in Bitcoin open-source.

A highlight of the evening came from Builders pathways alumni who shared their learning journeys.

BitDevs Kampala is back, and there's more to come. You can follow them on X, join their community, and stay updated here: https://www.bitdevskla.org/

We’re excited to announce our first Bitcoin Open Source ...

2025-05-12T15:13:28Z

We’re excited to announce our first Bitcoin Open Source Bootcamp! 🚀

The bootcamp officially kicks off today with our inaugural cohort selected from the recently completed Builders pathways: BOSS, Mastering Bitcoin and Bitcoin CLI cohorts.

The Open Source Bootcamp is a 4-week intensive program designed to upskill developers and guide them toward making meaningful contributions to open-source Bitcoin projects.

This cohort will spend the next month:
• Setting up their Bitcoin development environments
• Learning to navigate and review Bitcoin Core
• Exploring real-world Bitcoin open-source projects
• Making their first meaningful contributions to the ecosystem

Participants will also receive weekly mentorship, feedback from experienced faculty, and guidance on preparing proposals for the Btrust (nprofile…6lmj) Starter Grant, which supports promising new contributors in continuing their open-source journey.

The goal is to grow a diverse, capable pipeline of Bitcoin open-source developers committed to building long-term.

The first cohorts of the 2025 Btrust Builders Pathways have ...

2025-05-09T12:21:37Z

The first cohorts of the 2025 Btrust Builders Pathways have officially graduated. 🎉🎓

Over the past two months, developers from across Africa took part in Mastering Bitcoin and Learn Bitcoin from the Command Line. These programs were designed to build foundational Bitcoin knowledge and technical skills for open-source contribution.

We’ve captured the highlights, cohort insights, and what’s next in our full recap. You can read it here: https://blog.btrust.tech/q1-2025-builders-pathways-graduation/

Applications are now open for the next round of Builders Pathways starting in June. This round includes Rust for Bitcoiners and Language Clubs. The two programs are built to support developers at different stages of their Bitcoin journey.

Apply for the June cohorts here: https://btrust.homerun.co/btrust-builders-application/en

We’re excited to announce the first-ever BitDevs meetup in Kano ...

2025-04-17T12:30:38Z

We’re excited to announce the first-ever BitDevs meetup in Kano 🇳🇬, happening this Saturday.

📍 Location: Enovate Lab
📅 Date: Saturday, 19th April 2025
🕐 Time: 1pm - 3pm WAT
🔗 RSVP here: https://lu.ma/957ftrkb

Come connect, learn, and build with like-minded individuals.

Do you want to contribute to Bitcoin open-source projects, but ...

2025-04-08T11:05:15Z

Do you want to contribute to Bitcoin open-source projects, but you're not sure where to start?

The BOSS (Bitcoin Open Source Software) pathway is a 3-month immersive program that helps developers make real contributions to Bitcoin projects. 🚀

It’s not just a learning program. It’s a launchpad into the world of open-source Bitcoin development.

This pathway includes:
✅ Deep technical learning. You get to work on real Bitcoin open-source challenges.
✅ Mentorship from Bitcoin developers. Get professional feedback and guidance.
✅ Exposure to real-world Bitcoin development workflows.
✅ A structured approach to making meaningful contributions to Bitcoin Core & related projects.

This program is rigorous and hands-on. It’s designed for developers with programming experience, but there are no strict prerequisites, just a passion for Bitcoin and a willingness to learn.

The 2025 BOSS cohort is already in session, and applications for the next intake will open in late 2025 for the 2026 cohort. If you’re serious about getting involved in Bitcoin open-source development, this is your chance to make an impact.

Who Should Apply?
🔹 Developers with at least one year of programming experience.
🔹 Anyone excited about a challenge and ready to work on real Bitcoin projects.
🔹 Those willing to dedicate at least 10+ hours per week to deep technical learning.

This isn’t a beginner’s program, but if you’re ready to take your skills to the next level, BOSS will get you there.

Learn more about the program and join our community here: https://www.btrust.tech/builders/apply

📢 Applications for the 2026 cohort open in late 2025. Join the waitlist today and be the first to know when applications go live; https://btrust.homerun.co/btrust-builders-application/en

Bitcoin development requires more than just blockchain knowledge. ...

2025-04-04T13:31:07Z

Bitcoin development requires more than just blockchain knowledge. You need strong coding skills to contribute effectively to open-source projects.

That’s why we’re introducing Language Clubs, a self-paced program designed to help developers sharpen their programming skills in Bitcoin-relevant languages.

This Pathway Covers:
✅ Hands-on learning in key programming languages like Python, JavaScript, and C++.
✅ A structured peer-learning environment; no formal curriculum, just developer-driven learning.
✅ Real-world exercises & projects to improve coding ability.
✅ A supportive community of learners helping each other grow.

This pathway does not operate as a traditional coding bootcamp. Instead, Builders acts as a coordinator, grouping developers by their target programming language and guiding them through existing resources and projects.

The first cohort of Language Clubs is launching soon, and we’re looking for developers who want to level up their coding skills for Bitcoin development. Whether you're a beginner looking to get started or an experienced developer refining your skills, this pathway is for you.

Who should join?
🔹 Developers who want to improve their coding skills in languages essential for Bitcoin development.
🔹 Programmers looking for structured peer-learning & real-world coding experience.
🔹 Anyone who wants to write better code and contribute to Bitcoin open-source projects.

📢 Want to be part of the first cohort? Join the waitlist here: https://www.btrust.tech/builders/apply

Rust has become a crucial language in Bitcoin development, ...

2025-03-27T13:41:18Z

Rust has become a crucial language in Bitcoin development, offering security, memory safety, and high performance. Whether you want to contribute to Bitcoin Core, BDK, LDK, or other Rust-based Bitcoin projects, mastering Rust is essential.

That’s why we’re launching Rust for Bitcoiners, a 4-6 week intensive track designed to help developers gain practical experience with Rust and apply it to Bitcoin development.

This pathway covers:
✅ Fundamentals of Rust programming; ownership, borrowing, memory safety.
✅ How Rust is used in Bitcoin development; exploring projects like BDK & LDK.
✅ Building Bitcoin-related projects using Rust.
✅ Best practices for writing secure, efficient Rust code for Bitcoin applications.

This isn’t just a Rust bootcamp. It’s a focused track for developers who want to apply Rust to real Bitcoin use cases.

We’re launching the first-ever Rust for Bitcoiners cohort soon, bringing together developers eager to master Rust for Bitcoin development. Participants will:
🔹 Work in structured peer-learning groups.
🔹 Engage in hands-on exercises & Rust-based Bitcoin projects.
🔹 Get mentorship from experienced Rust developers.

Who should apply?
🔹 Intermediate to advanced developers who want to write Bitcoin software in Rust.
🔹 Programmers looking to contribute to open-source Bitcoin Rust projects.
🔹 Developers eager to build secure and efficient Bitcoin applications.

Want to be part of the first cohort? The waitlist is now open: https://www.btrust.tech/builders/apply

Understanding Bitcoin theoretically is great, but nothing beats ...

2025-03-26T13:24:50Z

Understanding Bitcoin theoretically is great, but nothing beats practical experience.

That’s why we created the Learn Bitcoin from the Command Line pathway. It is a 7-week intensive track designed to help developers interact directly with Bitcoin Core using the command-line interface (CLI).

Participants in this pathway gain real-world experience by working with actual Bitcoin transactions, nodes, and scripting tools.

This pathway covers:
✅ How to run a Bitcoin full node and contribute to the network.
✅ Hands-on practice with Bitcoin Core CLI commands (bitcoin-cli).
✅ Learning how to analyze transactions, UTXOs, and scripting concepts.
✅ Real-world exercises & problem-solving scenarios.

The program follows a peer-learning format, where developers work in structured study groups to solve challenges, practice Bitcoin CLI commands, and engage in discussions to reinforce their understanding.

The first Bitcoin CLI cohort started March 17, 2025, with 68 developers enrolled.

Among participants, 80.9% are male, while 19.1% are female.

Nigeria 🇳🇬 has the largest representation, with 36 developers, followed by Kenya 🇰🇪 with 15, Benin 🇧🇯 with 3, and Ghana 🇬🇭 with 2.

If you're ready to get hands-on with Bitcoin Core, join the waitlist today.

📢 Apply here: https://www.btrust.tech/builders/apply

#Bitcoin #BitcoinCore #BtrustBuilders #BitcoinCLI

Over the next couple of days, we'll go over each of the five ...

2025-03-25T13:01:45Z

Over the next couple of days, we'll go over each of the five pathways and give an overview of what each entails. First up is Mastering Bitcoin.

Bitcoin is more than just a digital currency, it’s an entire technological movement. To build on Bitcoin, you need a deep understanding of its foundations, and that’s exactly what the Mastering Bitcoin pathway offers.

This 8-week structured learning track is designed for developers, designers, and Bitcoin enthusiasts who want a comprehensive study of Bitcoin’s inner workings.

Using Mastering Bitcoin (3rd Edition) by Andreas Antonopoulos as our primary resource, participants work in peer-learning study groups to discuss Bitcoin concepts and engage in hands-on learning.

This Pathway Covers:
✅ How Bitcoin works; from cryptographic keys to network architecture.
✅ The mechanics behind wallets, transactions, and mining.
✅ Bitcoin scripting & programming concepts to deepen your technical knowledge.
✅ Decentralization & security.

Participants attend weekly discussion calls, prepare presentations based on Socratic discussion questions, and engage in partner discussions.

Our first cohort is ongoing. It kicked off on March 10th, 2025. The cohort launched with 96 developers enrolled, making it our largest cohort yet. The group is diverse, with developers joining from different parts of Africa.

Among participants, 80.2% are male (77 participants) and 19.8% are female (19 participants). The majority hail from West Africa (62.5%), followed by East Africa (29.2%), with smaller groups from Southern Africa (2.1%), Central Africa (1%), and the Indian Ocean region (1%).

Nigeria has the largest representation, with 55 developers enrolled, followed by Kenya with 18 participants, Tanzania with 4, and smaller groups from Ghana, Rwanda, Uganda, and Malawi. The most active city is Lagos, Nigeria, with 28 developers, followed by Nairobi, Kenya, with 16.

Join the waitlist and start your Bitcoin learning journey.

📢 Apply for the next cohort here: https://www.btrust.tech/builders/apply

#Bitcoin #MasteringBitcoin #BtrustBuilders #BitcoinEducation

The Bitcoin open-source ecosystem needs more skilled developers, ...

2025-03-24T13:55:17Z

The Bitcoin open-source ecosystem needs more skilled developers, and we’re creating new opportunities to learn, build, and contribute.

That’s why we’re launching the Btrust Builders Pathways; a structured learning framework designed to help developers at every stage of their journey gain the skills needed to contribute to Bitcoin open source.

Below are the five unique learning tracks. They are all free to join.
🔹 Mastering Bitcoin – A structured 8-week dive into Bitcoin fundamentals.
🔹 Learn Bitcoin from the Command Line – 7 weeks of hands-on Bitcoin Core CLI training.
🔹 Rust for Bitcoiners – 4-6 weeks to master Rust for Bitcoin projects.
🔹 Language Clubs – A self-paced space to improve your coding skills for Bitcoin development.
🔹 Start Your Career in BOSS – A 3-month immersive program focused on making real contributions to open-source Bitcoin projects.

The first two cohorts (Mastering Bitcoin & Bitcoin CLI) are already live. You can join the waitlist for the next cohort.
Pathways are optional. You can still apply for BOSS in 2026 without completing any pathways.

Join the waitlist for the future cohorts here: https://www.btrust.tech/builders/apply

Want more details about each pathway? Check out our full announcement blog here: https://blog.btrust.tech/introducing-the-btrust-builders-pathways/

#Bitcoin #BitcoinDevelopment #BtrustBuilders

Great work!

2025-03-13T16:49:11Z

In reply to nevent1q…l6vq
_________________________

Great work!

Appreciate it boss 🧡

2025-02-20T10:26:14Z

In reply to nevent1q…n3f8
_________________________

Appreciate it boss 🧡

Asante Kaka 🧡

2025-02-20T10:25:51Z

In reply to nevent1q…4lwa
_________________________

Asante Kaka 🧡

Btrust Builders is now on #Nostr We're training experienced ...

2025-02-19T18:31:15Z

Btrust Builders is now on #Nostr

We're training experienced African developers to contribute to open-source Bitcoin & Lightning development.

Our program helps engineers level up, contribute, and build sustainable (funded) careers in Bitcoin.

Follow us for updates on developer resources, learning opportunities and the work of African Bitcoin builders.

Let's go! 🚀