Blockchain Innovation at ETHTokyo 2025
At the forefront of blockchain innovation, developers Vitalik Marincenko and Shreyansh Pandey of Bitcoin.com achieved second place in the AI & Society category during the recent ETHTokyo 2025 hackathon. Their project, known as Prompt Piper, aims to enhance the cost-effectiveness and ethical deployment of artificial intelligence by streamlining prompts to minimize token consumption, thereby expediting AI development at reduced costs.
Unique Hackathon Environment
This private hackathon distinguished itself by fostering a unique environment for roughly 120 participants and 42 competing projects, amplifying Japan’s significance in the realm of decentralized technologies. Unlike other high-profile hackathons, ETHTokyo adopted an independent organization format, appealing to a diverse group of developers eager to push boundaries in the crypto space.
Personal Reflections and Achievements
Marincenko, who has previously authored a popular guide on achieving success in Web3 hackathons, described his experience in Tokyo as a momentous return and a pivotal advancement in his career. For him, this event marked his first competition outside the ETHGlobal series, making the recognition all the more rewarding.
“Securing a win was significant for me,”
he stated, emphasizing the importance of this achievement.
Focus on Ethical AI Practices
The AI & Society track specifically focused on fostering ethical AI practices, demanding solutions that oppose surveillance capitalism while delivering substantial societal benefits. With the second-place finish, Marincenko and Pandey not only garnered accolades at ETHTokyo but also earned the privilege to present their project on the main stage at EDCON, one of the leading conferences within the Ethereum community.
The Evolving Culture of Hackathons
The growing culture of hackathons, highlighted by substantial prize funds and direct financing opportunities, illustrates that these events are evolving into essential platforms for nurturing talent and technological advancements.
