Become a Btrust Builder

About the Program

Btrust Builders is a structured learning and contribution program to educate software developers across Africa about Bitcoin and Lightning development, and start them on their journey as open-source Bitcoin contributors.

We operate a clear contributor pipeline — meeting developers where they are, guiding them through focused pathways, and supporting top performers into deeper contribution, mentorship, and grant opportunities.

Whether you’re new to Bitcoin or already writing code, Builders helps you build the skills, habits, and proof of work needed to contribute meaningfully to the Bitcoin open-source ecosystem.

All applicants start in one of the Builders Pathways. These are cohort-based programs combining self-paced learning with live support, small groups, and clear expectations.

Each pathway includes:

• Guided learning materials

• Weekly live sessions with experienced developers

• Small peer groups and chaperone support

• Clear evaluation and progression criteria

Pick a path and start today!

#01 — Mastering Bitcoin

• Duration: 8 weeks

• Level: Beginner (Theory)

• Format: Self-paced readings, weekly chaperone-led Socratic discussions and small study groups.

Build strong Bitcoin fundamentals using Mastering Bitcoin: Programming the Open Blockchain (3rd Edition) by Andreas M. Antonopoulos. You’ll focus on:

• Bitcoin mental models and core concepts

• How Bitcoin works under the hood

• Developing technical reading and discussion habits

#02 — Learn Bitcoin from the Command Line

• Duration: 7 weeks

• Level: Intermediate (Hands-On)

• Format: Hands-on exercises, GitHub-based submissions, and weekly live review sessions.

Get practical experience working directly with Bitcoin Core using the command-line interface (CLI). You’ll focus on:

• Running and interacting with Bitcoin Core

• Understanding nodes, transactions, and RPCs

• Building confidence working with real Bitcoin infrastructure

#03 — Rust for Bitcoiners

• Duration: 6 weeks

• Level: Intermediate → Advanced

• Format: Smaller groups, close technical support, weekly office hours, and a required capstone project.

Learn Rust with a focus on contributing to Bitcoin-related open-source projects. You’ll focus on:

• Rust fundamentals and patterns

• Applying Rust in Bitcoin contexts

• Preparing for real open-source contributions

#04 — Language Clubs

• Duration: 6 weeks

• Level: Intermediate → Advanced

• Languages: Python, C++

• Format: Exercises, weekly syncs, mentor support, and a capstone project.

Sharpen your skills in Bitcoin-relevant languages through structured, peer-supported learning. You’ll focus on:

• Language fluency for Bitcoin development

• Reading and navigating real codebases

• Contribution readiness

The Resource Hub (Always-On Support)

All Builders participants get access to the Builders Resource Hub, a continuously updated knowledge base that supports you before, during, and after your pathway.

The hub includes:

• Open-source contribution guides and cheat sheets

• Step-by-step walkthroughs for first PRs and reviews

• Curated Bitcoin open-source projects by language and skill level

• Developer tools, setup guides, and workflows

• Articles on Bitcoin internals and OSS culture

The Resource Hub is your long-term reference point, even after your cohort ends.

Open Source Fellowship (By Invitation)

Top contributors across all pathways may be invited into the Open Source Fellowship, the most selective and high-touch part of Builders.

Duration: 10 weeks
Support: Mentorship, stipends, structured milestones

Fellows work on real Bitcoin open-source projects with close guidance and accountability.

What Fellows do:

• Contribute to active open-source Bitcoin projects

• Participate in weekly standups and peer reviews

• Receive 1:1 mentorship

• Produce technical writing and proof-of-work

• Demo their work publicly

Outcome:
Fellows graduate with a visible contribution history and are well-positioned for grants and long-term OSS roles.

What to Expect as a Builder

Who Should Apply?

You should apply if you:

• Are a software developer interested in Bitcoin

• Want to learn and contribute to open-source

• Can commit consistently during a pathway

• Are comfortable learning in public and collaborating

You don’t need to be an expert — just curious, committed, and willing to do the work.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do the Pathways work in 2026?

   In 2026, Builders Pathways operate as structured on-ramps into open-source contribution. They are designed to help developers build foundational and intermediate skills, develop contribution habits, and demonstrate readiness for deeper engagement. Each pathway combines:

   • Self-paced and shared learning

   • Live sessions and guided discussions

   • Practical exercises and capstones

   • Small-group support led by chaperones

   Pathways are not isolated programs — they are part of a broader progression that can lead into the Open Source Fellowship for strong performers.

2. Which Pathways are available?

   Builders currently offers four core Pathways:

   • Mastering Bitcoin – for developers building strong conceptual and protocol foundations

   • Learn Bitcoin from the Command Line – for hands-on interaction with Bitcoin Core and related tools

   • Rust for Bitcoiners – for developers preparing to work on modern Bitcoin OSS stacks

   • Language Clubs – focused, peer-supported programming skill development

   Developers may also be redirected into appropriate Pathways through BOSS, depending on experience and readiness.

3. Do I have to pay to join?

   No. All Builders Pathways are free to join, and this will always remain the case.

4. How do I choose which Pathway to join?

   Your choice should be guided by your:

   • Current technical experience

   • Comfort level with Bitcoin concepts

   • Learning goals and contribution ambitions

   Each Pathway page clearly outlines prerequisites and expected outcomes. Applicants are also guided during application and redirection to ensure the best fit.

5. Where do I select my Pathway?

   You select your preferred Pathway when completing the application form. Simply click on Apply Now.

6. Can I join more than one Pathway at the same time?

   We strongly recommend joining only one Pathway at a time.

   Most Pathways run concurrently and include self-paced work, live sessions, exercises, and group discussions. Taking on multiple Pathways simultaneously can reduce learning quality and lead to burnout. You are welcome to complete one Pathway and apply to another later.

7. How are top performers identified?

   Developers are evaluated holistically based on:

   • Consistent participation

   • Quality of technical output

   • Initiative and problem-solving

   • Collaboration and communication

   • Alignment with open-source best practices

   Completion alone does not guarantee progression, performance and readiness matter.

8. What is the Open Source Fellowship?

   The Open Source Fellowship is a selective, contribution-focused program for developers who demonstrate readiness for sustained open-source work.

   Fellows:

   • Contribute to real Bitcoin OSS projects

   • Work with mentors and faculty

   • Build visible proof-of-work

   • Learn how to collaborate with maintainers and teams

   Not all Pathway participants advance to the Fellowship, and that is intentional.

9. If I complete a Pathway, will I automatically join the Fellowship?

   No. Pathways are learning programs; the Fellowship is selective. Advancement depends on demonstrated skill, consistency, and contribution readiness.

10. What if I feel I’m already past the Pathways?

    If you already have strong proof-of-work and active OSS contributions, you may be better suited for:

    • The Open Source Fellowship, or

    • Long-term ecosystem contribution and future grant consideration

    Pathways are designed to support readiness, not to slow down experienced contributors unnecessarily. You might be ready for the Btrust Grants. Check our website for more information. If you have questions or need additional details, please reach out—we’re here to support your journey in Bitcoin development!

11. Will I get a job with Btrust after completing a Pathway or the Fellowship?

    No. Btrust does not hire developers directly. Instead, Builders is designed to:

    • Help developers build credible open-source track records

    • Prepare contributors for long-term OSS work

    • Identify contributors who may later be considered for grants

    Grants are not guaranteed and are evaluated separately based on contribution quality and ecosystem needs.

12. Is Builders a one-time program?

    No. Builders is a long-term contributor pipeline, not a single course.

    Developers are encouraged to:

    • Continue learning through the Resource Hub

    • Progress through Pathways thoughtfully

    • Contribute to open source at their own pace

    • Stay engaged with the ecosystem over time