Shardeum, an autoscaling EVM-based layer-1 blockchain has launched a unique campaign called the “Proof of Keys Airdrop Program”, a revival of one of the most important values in crypto: self-custody.
Shardeum reignites the 2018 'Proof of Keys' movement by encouraging users to hold SHM in their own self-custodial wallets for 30 days. Starting today, users can register their self-custodial wallets on Shardeum mainnet, maintain a minimum balance of 100 SHM, and participate in the program
At the end of the holding period, participants may receive an airdrop based on the lowest balance they held during that time. For example, if your SHM balance dropped to 5,000 at any point during the campaign period starting from your registration, that becomes your eligible base even if you later topped it up.
Shahzad Nathani, Head of Operations and Partnerships at Shardeum said, “Proof of Keys is more than just a community initiative; it's a reminder of the foundational principles of crypto: ownership, transparency, and decentralization. At Shardeum, our goal is to support and educate users about responsible on-chain practices. This program is also designed to encourage long-term engagement with the network in alignment with these principles.”
By design, Shardeum’s program encourages strong self-custody habits, as managing your own keys carries more responsibility than custodial alternatives. Also by rewarding users who consistently hold SHM in their wallets, the initiative aims to foster greater trust, improve on-chain participation, and contribute to a more decentralized network.
KYC verification may be requested for wallets receiving higher-value rewards. Registration starts on August 6, 2025 and closes on September 05, 2025. Each user's 30-day holding period begins from the time of their registration.
This is one of the first times a major Layer 1 is launching an airdrop directly tied to self-custody and financial sovereignty, aligning closely with Web3’s foundational values of decentralization and user ownership.