Scroll

Overview

Scroll is a Layer 2 (L2) scaling solution for the Ethereum blockchain, designed to improve transaction throughput and reduce costs while maintaining security and decentralization. Utilizing zero-knowledge (zk) rollup technology, Scroll processes transactions off-chain and generates zk-proofs that are verified on the Ethereum mainnet, ensuring high efficiency and security. Scroll aims to provide an EVM-equivalent environment, allowing developers to deploy Ethereum smart contracts without modifications.

Background

Scroll was founded in early 2022 by Sandy Peng, Ye Zhang, and Haichen Shen. The project emerged from a strong community ethos, with the founding team meeting and building initial support within the broader Ethereum and crypto community. This focus on community-driven development continues to be a core principle of Scroll.

Technology

Zero-Knowledge Rollups

Zero-knowledge rollups (zk-rollups) bundle multiple transactions off-chain and generate a cryptographic proof (zk-proof) that is submitted to the Ethereum mainnet. This method significantly reduces the load on Ethereum, leading to faster and cheaper transactions while ensuring the integrity and validity of each transaction.

zkEVM

Scroll implements a zero-knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine (zkEVM), which provides full compatibility with Ethereum’s existing smart contracts. This allows developers to deploy their dApps on Scroll without changing the underlying code, making Scroll highly accessible for Ethereum developers.

Development and Features

Developer Resources

Scroll provides extensive documentation and tools for developers, including tutorials for deploying smart contracts using popular tools like Hardhat and Foundry. The platform supports seamless integration with existing Ethereum development workflows.

Testnet and Mainnet

Scroll operates both a testnet (Scroll Sepolia) and a live mainnet. The testnet allows developers to experiment and test their applications before deploying them on the mainnet, ensuring robustness and reliability.

Founders and Team

Scroll was co-founded by:

• Sandy Peng: An advocate for community-driven development and an experienced entrepreneur in the blockchain space.
• Ye Zhang: A technical expert in zero-knowledge proofs and blockchain scaling solutions.
• Haichen Shen: A seasoned developer with extensive experience in blockchain technology and decentralized applications.

The team comprises a global network of developers and contributors who share a commitment to open-source collaboration and the Ethereum vision.

Investors and Funding

Scroll has raised significant investment to support its development and growth. The project secured $30 million in a Series A funding round led by Polychain Capital, with participation from Bain Capital Crypto, Robot Ventures, Geometry DAO, and several angel investors from the Ethereum community, including Ying Tong and Carlos Aria​​.

Partnerships and Integrations

Scroll has partnered with TaskOn to enhance its platform’s capabilities, introducing omnichain functionalities and verification services for projects within the Scroll ecosystem. This integration aims to boost user engagement and create a more interconnected network​.

Roadmap and Future Plans

In 2024, Scroll plans to focus on decentralizing its stack components and expanding its ecosystem. Key initiatives include further scaling solutions and exploring new use cases that benefit from zk-rollup technology. The project aims to continue building a developer-centric environment and responding to the needs of its community​.

Community and Ecosystem

Scroll maintains a vibrant community with active participation on platforms like Discord and Twitter. The project emphasizes community-driven development and collaboration with governance DAOs to align with Ethereum’s decentralized ethos​.

Tokenomics

The tokenomics model for Scroll is designed to support its growth, incentivize contributors, and ensure long-term sustainability. Here are the key details regarding the token distribution and allocation:

1. Total Token Supply: The total token supply for Scroll has not been explicitly disclosed in terms of exact numbers but is structured to support various pools necessary for the ecosystem’s development.

2. Token Allocation:

   • Community Pool: 40% of the total token supply is reserved for the community. This includes airdrops, staking rewards, and other community incentives. This allocation aims to encourage widespread participation and engagement within the Scroll ecosystem.
   • Founders and Team Pool: 20% of the tokens are allocated to the founders, team members, and advisors. This pool is subject to vesting schedules to align the team’s incentives with the long-term success of the project.
   • Investors Pool: 20% is designated for investors, including those who participated in private and public sales. This pool helps raise the necessary funds to support the project’s development and expansion.
   • Ecosystem and Partnerships: 10% of the tokens are set aside for ecosystem development and strategic partnerships. This allocation is intended to foster collaborations and integrations that enhance the Scroll network’s functionality and reach.
   • Development Fund: 10% is allocated to a development fund to support ongoing technical advancements, research, and innovation within the Scroll ecosystem.

3. Distribution Models:

   • Private Sales and SAFT: Early investors have participated in private sales, including a Simple Agreement for Future Tokens (SAFT) model. These tokens are typically locked and vested over a period to ensure long-term commitment from investors.
   • Public Sales and Airdrops: Public sales may be conducted through various platforms, ensuring broad accessibility. Airdrops are used to distribute tokens to early adopters and active community members as a reward for their engagement.

4. Vesting and Lockup Periods: The tokens allocated to the team and advisors typically come with vesting schedules and lockup periods to prevent immediate selling and ensure alignment with the project’s long-term goals.

5. Utility and Governance:

   • Transaction Fees: Tokens can be used to pay for transaction fees within the Scroll network, providing a seamless and cost-effective user experience.
   • Staking: Users can stake their tokens to support network security and earn rewards.
   • Governance: Token holders may have the ability to participate in governance decisions, influencing the future direction and development of the Scroll network.

Scroll’s tokenomics model is designed to balance the needs of early investors, the development team, and the broader community, ensuring a sustainable and thriving ecosystem.