What is Initia? Discover how to join the modular solution for customizable rollups

Are you a Web3 developer? Then, Initia should definitely be on your radar. This innovative platform enables the creation of application-specific blockchains with complete freedom—without sacrificing security, liquidity, or connectivity. In this blog, we’ll explain what Initia is, how its modular architecture works, and how you can participate in INIT staking with Stakely.
What is Initia and what makes it different?
Initia is a layer 1 blockchain built on Cosmos SDK. Unlike other projects that leave all technical decisions to developers, Initia already includes integrated solutions for storage, cross-chain communication, and oracles. Its modular architecture allows frictionless deployment of custom rollups.
With this solid foundation, developers can focus on building innovative applications without worrying about technical complexity.
This all-in-one solution is called the Interwoven Stack, a suite of tools and systems designed to simplify the launch and management of custom blockchains (rollups).
How does Initia work?
Initia relies on three key pillars:
1. Initia L1: this is the ecosystem’s main base layer, built with Cosmos SDK.
Its core functions include:
- Security: secures the entire network and validates L2 rollups.
- Governance: where INIT holders vote on key decisions.
- Liquidity: provides unified liquidity through InitiaDEX.
- Connectivity: uses IBC to communicate with other blockchains.
- Integrated rewards: features programs like the Vested Interest Program (VIP) and Enshrined Liquidity, which benefit users, validators, and developers.
2. Interwoven Rollups: these are independent layer 2 rollups that run on Initia L1, designed for specific applications and fully customizable, allowing you to adapt aspects such as smart contracts and token gas. Here’s what you can do:
- Choose between EVM, Move, or Wasm.
- Configure how transactions are processed and ordered.
- Create your own fee and gas structure using INIT, stablecoins, or multiple tokens.
- Easily integrate with Initia L1 thanks to the OPinit Framework, which enables data transfer, fraud protection, and token bridges.
3. Interwoven Stack: this is the full toolkit for launching and managing your rollup without hassle. Native solutions include:
- Integrated wallets, explorers, and governance systems.
- Bridges to connect rollups and external blockchains.
- Pre-built services that simplify development.
- Minitswap, to move tokens between L1 and L2 instantly.
How does Initia reward users and developers?
Initia rewards users and developers through the Vested Interest Program (VIP) with esINIT, a system designed to incentivize ongoing activity and contribution across the network.
What is esINIT?
esINIT is a locked version of the INIT token, distributed as a reward through VIP. This token is not immediately transferable and must go through a vesting process to convert into regular INIT and unlock its full value.
Example:
If you have 100 esINIT with a vesting period of 50 stages, you’ll receive 2 INIT per stage (100 ÷ 50 = 2).
To unlock the full amount, you must maintain the required VIP score. If your score drops below the threshold, you’ll only receive a proportional amount of your esINIT.
How do I earn esINIT?
- Rollups receive reward allocations for creating innovative applications and new use cases for the INIT token. They also set their own scoring rules based on the activities they want to encourage.
- Users earn esINIT tokens by performing valuable actions or meeting criteria defined by the L2s. However, these rewards are not instantly available.
esINIT tokens unlock gradually over time, or can be converted faster into INIT through certain lock-up positions.
INIT, the economic and governance engine of Initia
INIT is Initia’s native token, with a fixed supply of 1 billion tokens, distributed across various categories to ensure a balance between security, development, and participation:


Currently, around 14.88% of the supply is in circulation since its launch, while the rest is gradually distributed through ecosystem programs.
How to stake INIT and join the Initia ecosystem
Securely stake INIT without maintaining the custody of your funds, and with the trusted support of Stakely. Our infrastructure guarantees a simple, secure, and optimized experience to manage your INIT tokens.
Initia is not just another blockchain, it’s a modular and interoperable platform that simplifies dApp development and enhances the user experience. With its focus on security, liquidity, and flexibility, it is shaping up to be a key pillar of the multichain future. Start your journey with Initia today!