Getting into crypto app development might sound like rocket science, but it’s easier than you think when you break it down.
Whether you’re dreaming of building a cryptocurrency wallet, a decentralized app (dApp), or a tool powered by smart contracts, you don’t need to know how to code or understand blockchain at a technical level to get started.
That’s where boilerplates come in.
These pre-built templates save you the hassle of starting from scratch, especially in the complex world of crypto.
With boilerplates, you get a foundation that handles tricky integrations like wallet connections and smart contracts.
It’s like having the technical groundwork already done, so you can focus on bringing your idea to life.
Here are some popular boilerplates to explore, depending on what you’re building:
For Crypto Apps
Ethereum Boilerplate: Perfect for building dApps on Ethereum, with tools like Web3.js and Truffle included.
Moralis Web3 Boilerplate: A full-stack option with features like user authentication and real-time database updates.
Solana dApp Scaffold: Tailored for apps on the Solana blockchain, offering speed and efficiency.
For Crypto Smart Contracts
OpenZeppelin Contracts: Trusted templates for secure smart contracts on Ethereum.
Truffle Suite: A developer-friendly environment for writing, deploying, and testing Ethereum contracts.
Hardhat: A powerful yet beginner-friendly tool for Ethereum contract debugging and testing.
Boilerplates take care of the heavy lifting, letting you dive straight into building the features that make your app unique.
Here’s the step-by-step playbook to launch your first crypto app.
Step 1: Pinpoint the Problem You Want to Solve
Don’t just add blockchain to an idea for the hype.
Make sure your app solves a real problem in a way that a traditional solution can’t.
Think security, transparency, or decentralization—these are blockchain’s strong suits.
Step 2: Pick the Right Blockchain Platform
Your app’s platform is like choosing the neighborhood for your house.
Ethereum is great for smart contracts, Solana handles fast and cheap transactions, and Polygon scales Ethereum’s tech with lower fees.
Step 3: Use No-Code or Low-Code Tools
Not a coder? No problem.
Tools like Bubble, Bildr, or Stacker let you build functional apps without writing code.
You can focus on designing the experience while these tools handle the heavy lifting.
Step 4: Simplify the User Experience
The biggest challenge for crypto apps isn’t technology—it’s usability.
Build interfaces that feel familiar and keep blockchain details invisible to the user. Simple onboarding can make or break your app.
Step 5: Know the Rules
Crypto is a regulatory minefield.
Before you build, make sure you know the laws around digital currencies and data privacy.
Better yet, get a lawyer with crypto experience.
Step 6: Build a Community
Crypto thrives on collaboration.
Start connecting with early adopters on Reddit, Discord, or X.
I often say that Crypto lives on X and congregate on Discord.
Why It Matters
Bitcoin will cross $100,000.
Read my Bitcoin story: https://x.com/RichardsonDx/status/1437893777876787211
The crypto app market is growing fast, but it’s not overcrowded. Non-technical founders with fresh ideas are breaking in every day, thanks to accessible tools and platforms. If you act now, you’ll get ahead of the curve and carve out a space in a booming industry
What I’ve Been Up To
I was sick last week—pro tip: don’t eat leftovers from your kid’s plate when they’re sick. Turns out, germs aren’t impressed by your dad reflexes. The good news is you’re getting two newsletters this week!
Big news! I launched GitGlance—an AI tool to find trends in GitHub communities. From spotting common issues to finding untapped opportunities, you can really dive deep with the help of AI. There’s a 50% lifetime discount on this Black Friday Weekend for any plan. Reply to this post to claim it.
I built GitGlance in just 10 days total, showing off what is possible at RichDX: apps don’t need to take months. With AI, we make it happen 10x faster.
I’ve been obsessing over how web development repeats itself. Every app needs email workflows and payment usage logic. It’s mind-numbing! I’m trying to tackle the payment logic problem with a reusable, open-source solution atm. Stay tuned for updates.
I was on the Beyond The Wealth podcast! We talked about AI, SaaS, and how I approach app development. Catch it here. If you host a podcast and want me to join, let me know—I’d love to chat.
Wishing all my American friends a Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃
Learn it, to make it!
Cheers!