Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have exploded in popularity recently as a new way to own and trade unique digital assets. For blockchain and crypto beginners, getting free NFTs can be a great way to learn about and get involved in the space without risking any money. This article will provide an overview of easy methods for startups and SaaS founders to obtain free NFTs, from joining whitelist contests and airdrops to leveraging social media giveaways and play-to-earn games.
Introduction
NFTs are digital assets with unique identifying codes and metadata recorded on a blockchain. Unlike cryptocurrencies, they are not mutually interchangeable, making them more like collectibles than currency.
The goal here is to highlight beginner-friendly techniques to get free NFTs without spending any money. This allows newcomers to experience owning NFTs, interacting within communities, and learning about the technology and market dynamics involved. For startups and SaaS founders, getting free NFTs can provide hands-on exposure to blockchain technology and how it could potentially be integrated into products and services.
Researching offers thoroughly and avoiding scams is critical when pursuing free NFTs as a beginner. Legitimate opportunities do exist, however, and can serve as a gateway to future NFT engagement and investing. Approached carefully, getting free NFTs can be an exciting onramp to Web3 participation.
Joining Whitelist Giveaways
Whitelist giveaways involve entering contests run by promising new NFT projects like Doodles and Azuki to win a spot on the project's whitelist. This grants access to mint or purchase the project's NFTs before public sale.
To participate:
- Follow NFT projects on Twitter and Discord to find whitelist giveaway announcements. Engaging with the community helps build awareness of opportunities.
- Read giveaway rules carefully and complete any required steps to enter like retweeting, tagging friends, or joining Discord. Raffles, trivia contests, invitations, and other formats are common.
- Legitimize projects by researching founders, roadmaps, community reception, and market buzz. Avoid questionable projects more likely to be giving away valueless NFTs.
- Top projects running giveaways currently include Azuki, Doodles, Pudgy Penguins, and Degen Trash Panda Club amongst others.
Participating in Airdrops
NFT airdrops distribute free NFTs to wallet holders who meet certain criteria, like owning an associated cryptocurrency or NFT from the same collection.
Tips for capitalizing on airdrops:
- Hold crypto assets like ETH in Web3 wallets to qualify for airdrops requiring ownership. MetaMask, Coinbase Wallet, and Phantom are popular options.
- Follow thought leaders on Twitter and Discord for airdrop announcements like @nftnow, @nft_airdrops, and @AirdropAlerts.
- Research projects thoroughly before claiming airdropped NFTs to gauge legitimacy and future value. Beware of scams.
- Upcoming verified airdrops to monitor include Moonbirds for PRO holders and Otherdeeds for Otherlands MODA holders.
Using NFT Faucets
NFT faucets distribute free NFTs to users on request, similar to crypto faucets. Users can claim and accumulate faucet NFTs over time, or sell them for profit.
Though easy to use, potential downsides exist:
- Faucet NFTs often hold little value, though occasional rare drops do occur.
- Some faucets implement withdrawal fees, limiting profitability.
- Scam sites may steal wallet information entered to claim faucets.
Legitimate faucet examples include DigitalEyes, NFT-Maker, FreeNFT, and WAX Faucet. As always, thoroughly vet sites before connecting wallets.
Leveraging Referral Programs
Referral programs reward users with free NFTs for promoting projects and driving signups or sales.
Startups can leverage their existing customer and social media channels to promote NFT referral programs and earn rewards.
Effective referral marketing tactics include:
- Promoting referral links via social media posts, email outreach, and community engagement.
- Creating content like giveaway contests, reviews, and tutorials to grow referral signups.
- Vetting programs thoroughly and understanding referral reward structures before promoting links.
- Maximizing rewards by combining referrals with other bonuses and promotions.
Current NFT programs offering referrals include Mythical Markers, Deadfellaz, and CryptoPunks.
Entering Social Media Giveaways
Giveaways run by NFT influencers on platforms like Twitter and Discord distribute free NFTs to lucky winners.
To find and win these contests:
- Follow top NFT accounts hosting frequent giveaways like @nftgiveaways, @NFTGiveawayI, and @NFT_Giveaways.
- Engage with giveaway tweets by liking, retweeting, and tagging friends to increase chances of winning.
- Verify legitimacy by checking account history and confirm the NFT transfers to winners. Avoid sketchy new accounts.
- Upcoming verified giveaways to monitor include NFTFrank giving away Bored Apes and Pudgy Penguins founders distributing Pudgies.
Obtaining Free NFTs through Play-To-Earn
Play-to-earn games allow users to earn tradable NFT assets through gameplay. Though not without barriers to entry, these games provide another avenue for getting free NFTs.
Axie Infinity
Axie Infinity popularized the play-to-earn model. Players battle Pokémon-like Axies and earn tokens and NFTs.
Getting started requires significant upfront investment to purchase 3 Axies. Alternatives like scholarships and renting help avoid this cost. Gameplay involves breeding and battling Axies to acquire SLP tokens and rare Axies to sell.
However, declining SLP value and active player counts make it harder to profit currently.
Splinterlands
Splinterlands is a digital trading card game allowing players to earn tradable NFT cards through ranked play and tournaments.
With a low learning curve and minimal upfront cost, Splinterlands is accessible for beginners. Strategy involves building card decks across splinters and leveling up cards to increase earning potential.
Gods Unchained
As a competitive card battler, Gods Unchained allows players to earn NFT cards by competing in matches and tournaments.
Cards can be sold on marketplaces, while ranked constructed play and prizes like card packs offer additional earnings. Effective deck building and mastery of gameplay mechanics is key to profitability.
Alien Worlds
In this decentralized metaverse, players mine and earn Trilium (TLM) tokens which can be exchanged for NFTs like virtual land plots.
Maximizing mining output involves staking TLM tokens and strategically upgrading tools. Additional play-to-earn options include participating in governance, crafting, and player-driven initiatives.
Big Time
Big Time allows players to earn by selling and renting out skilled NFT athletes. Gameplay involves sports matches where athlete performance impacts earnings.
Building optimal NFT athlete teams and excelling in ranked matches, tournaments, and sponsorships maximizes profit potential.
Key Takeaways for Getting Free NFTs
The methods highlighted provide diverse options for beginners to get free NFTs by engaging with communities, monitoring trends, and capitalizing on opportunities.
Vetting offers, avoiding scams, and understanding the limitations of free NFTs is critical. However, these strategies can open doors to more involved NFT participation.
For startups and SaaS founders, getting free NFTs provides hands-on experience with blockchain technology that could inform future business decisions and product offerings. Focusing on airdrops, social giveaways, play-to-earn gaming, and joining whitelists for promising projects maximizes the chance of getting valuable free NFTs.
Approached carefully and knowledgeably, getting free NFTs can provide an exciting gateway into the NFT space and Web3 ecosystem.
If you’re a startup or SaaS founder interested in exploring how NFTs and blockchain could benefit your business, be sure to check out Unicorn Platform, an easy-to-use website and blog builder tailored specifically for startups looking to integrate cutting-edge technologies.
