Become a Btrust Builder

Learn independently using Builders materials and the Resource Hub.

• No application required

• Learn on your own schedule

• Access readings, exercises, and discussion prompts

• Ideal for exploration, skill-building, or busy schedules

Start Self-Paced Learning

A guided learning experience with structure, accountability, and mentorship.

• Application-based, fixed start/end dates

• Weekly study groups and mandatory cohort sessions

• Assigned chaperone for guidance, mentoring, and grading

• Graduates listed publicly

• Required for Fellowship consideration

Apply for a Live Cohort

Due to high application volume, not all learners will join live cohorts, and that’s intentional. The Pathways are built to support both independent and guided learning without loss of quality.

Btrust Builders Pathways are structured learning tracks designed to help developers build real capability in Bitcoin and open-source development.

In 2026:

• Most pathways are available year-round in self-paced mode

• Some pathways also run live, guided cohorts at specific times

• You can enter at different levels depending on your background

• Progress is measured through proof of work, not attendance

Each pathway clearly explains:

• Who it’s for

• What you’ll learn

• How to participate (self-paced or live)

• What completion looks like

You choose the pathway and learning mode that best fits your goals and availability.

Self-Paced Learning

• Learn independently, on your own schedule

• No deadlines, live sessions, or evaluations

• Structured materials, prompts, and guidance provided

• Best for busy schedules, exploration, or refreshers

Live Cohorts

• Fixed schedule with weekly sessions

• Small study or homegroups with peer accountability

• Guided discussions, feedback, and evaluation

• Limited spots and selective admission

• Required for progression into certain advanced Builders programs

Both modes are designed to be high-quality. The difference is structure and accountability, not content quality.

All pathways are free to participate in.

We remove financial barriers so learners can focus on:

• Showing up consistently

• Doing the work

• Building real skills and public proof

What we do require is commitment. Pathways are demanding by design, and spots in live cohorts are limited.

Start by being honest about where you are right now.

As a general guide:

• New to Bitcoin or want strong fundamentals? → Start with Mastering Bitcoin

• Understand Bitcoin basics and want hands-on experience? → Learn Bitcoin from the Command Line

• Comfortable with programming and ready for real code? → Rust for Bitcoiners or Language Clubs

• Unsure where you fit? → Start with a foundational pathway, then progress forward

Each pathway page clearly states:

• Prerequisites

• Level

• Expected commitment

When in doubt, start earlier rather than later. Foundations compound.

Yes — but not at the same time in most cases.

We strongly recommend focusing on one pathway at a time, especially for live cohorts.

Why:

• Pathways require consistent weekly effort

• Splitting attention usually leads to shallow learning

• Builders prioritizes depth over speed

• Most pathway cohorts run in parallel.

You’re welcome to complete pathways sequentially as you progress.

The Open Source Fellowship is a separate, advanced program.

• It is not open enrollment

• It is by invitation or application

• Selection is based on demonstrated proof of work, not credentials

Typically:

• Strong performance in live cohorts

• High-quality public work (code, research, contributions)

• Consistency, collaboration, and reliability over time

Completing a pathway does not guarantee fellowship placement, but it is often the first step toward it.

You might be ready for the Btrust Grants. Grants are based on proof of work.

We currently offer:

• Starter Grant (full-time funding for six months)

• Open-Source Cohort (structured support while contributing long-time)

See btrust.tech/grants for details.

Yes. Start with Open Source Contribution Notes.

You can also browse the Resource Hub for developer tools and reading.

Btrust does not hire developers directly. We support contributors through grants.

Pathways help you build proof of work. Proof of work helps you qualify for grants.