Alternative grant structures have been emerging, particularly in the web3 space. These structures aim to streamline and decentralize the grant application process. Here are a couple of key examples:

1. Grants 2.0 by Gitcoin: This new approach allows grantees to submit a single grant application that can be routed to multiple grant programs. For instance, instead of applying separately to different organizations like Uniswap or Polygon, one application can be considered across all relevant platforms. This standardization and protocol-driven approach enhance efficiency and accessibility for grantees 1.

2. Decentralized Governance by GitcoinDAO: Gitcoin has been transitioning from a centralized grant program to a more decentralized, DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) model. This involves community-based decision-making and consent-based governance, where public votes and community input shape how the grants are allocated. They are working on creating more neutral and participatory systems for managing grants, aiming to decentralize the process further over time 2.

These innovative approaches indicate a shift towards transparency, efficiency, and broader community involvement in the grant funding ecosystem.