Layer Zero
Building the Foundation for Global Collaboration and Innovation Through Community Immersion
About Layer Zero
Empowering the Social Layer of Bitcoin
Layer Zero is a transformative initiative designed to empower youth to engage in creating and strengthening Bitcoin’s foundational social layer and bring Bitcoin’s potential to life by focusing on its most important foundation: people.
Inspired by the concept of "Layer Zero" as the human and cultural infrastructure that supports decentralized and open-source technologies such as Bitcoin and Nostr, this program offers student-aged participants an unparalleled opportunity to learn by doing, immersing themselves in communities worldwide, and contributing to shaping the future of global collaboration and innovation.
Learning, Innovating, and Driving Change
Picture yourself sitting with entrepreneurs as they explore Bitcoin’s potential. Imagine classrooms alive with curiosity, or communities taking bold strides toward independence - with your help making it possible.
Students will dive into specialized training that spans technical skills and community engagement, preparing them to drive projects focused on financial inclusion and economic empowerment. They will gain hands-on experience, actively learning to "speak" Bitcoin - the system and language of the future - by putting their skills into practice. By working directly with communities worldwide, participants will accelerate the adoption of decentralized technologies and support innovative solutions in areas where traditional infrastructure falls short.
A Movement for Global Collaboration
Layer Zero is not just an initiative - it’s a movement to foster global collaboration and innovation. Students will not be behind a desk, but rather will work side-by-side, building skills while contributing to dynamic and productive teams driving meaningful change together.
Layer Zero is about turning belief into action. It’s about stepping up and learning by doing. Bitcoin’s power starts with people; it’s about connection and creating a future where everyone has a chance to thrive.
Are you ready to take the first step?
Learn MoreGet Started with Layer Zero
Embarking on Layer Zero is simple. Here's how to get involved
01
Learn about the program and its mission.
02
Submit your application by February 15th
03
Join us in making a transformative impact from June 1 to August 15.
Project Timeline
Here are the key dates that will mark important milestones for the project.
Jan 9, 2025
Application launches
Feb 15, 2025
Application Closes
Mar 1, 2025
Decisions Released
Beginning of June
Depatures
Mid August
Return
Background Inspiration
Bitcoin fundamentally solves a communications channel problem by establishing a trustless system for transferring value and information without relying on intermediaries. At its core, Bitcoin addresses the challenge of ensuring agreement in a decentralized network, which is essentially a problem of communication and consensus among participants who may not trust each other.
Layer Zero launches on January 9th, honoring the day the Bitcoin network first came alive in 2009. This date isn’t just history; it’s a reminder of what’s possible when a network of individuals unites around shared principles. With every new connection, the network grows stronger, amplifying its ability to create, protect, and inspire.
The word “Bitcoin” appears twice in Satoshi Nakamoto’s white paper. The word “network”? Twenty-one times. A network isn’t just nodes and transactions - it’s people. With just two individuals, a network begins. With a shared mission, it thrives.
The Bitcoin network holds immense power to foster connections worldwide. Through Bitcoin, we can communicate with people worldwide whom we’ve never even met, whose language we don’t speak, whose stories we don’t know and say, “I see you, I hear you, I value you, what you do means something to me - I respect you” in a way never before possible.
It was a network that brought us Bitcoin, and it’s a network who are and will continue the mission to protect freedom, human flourishing, property rights, privacy, energy, agency, critical thinking, community, and much more.
Layer Zero exists to strengthen that network. To empower those who believe in its potential. To ensure that the principles Bitcoin was built on continue to guide its future.
Building Layer Zero
Layer Zero is the heartbeat of the Bitcoin ecosystem - the human connections and peer-to-peer (P2P) network that bring the technology to life.
While Bitcoin itself is a protocol for transmitting and securing value, Layer Zero focuses on improving the social, educational, and cultural infrastructure that supports the technology. Rather than just imagining the future or reading about it, you have the opportunity to not only live it but also take an active role in shaping and building it.
Better Communication
By fostering global dialogue about Bitcoin’s potential, Layer Zero enables more effective collaboration among developers, educators, and adopters.
Stronger Communities
Bitcoin can only thrive when people, nodes in the human sense, connect, share knowledge, and build trust in the system's design and purpose.
Empowering Collaboration
Layer Zero supports cross-cultural, cross-disciplinary cooperation, where the focus is on shared goals like financial inclusion, economic empowerment, and decentralized innovation.
Human Protocols for a Decentralized World
Building Layer Zero means creating systems of communication & coordination, empowerment, and resilience that complement Bitcoin’s technical layers, ensuring that people have the tools and relationships they need to shape and support the spontaneous order of the present and future.
Layer Zero isn’t just a layer in the ecosystem, it’s the foundation. The stronger it is, the more Bitcoin can fulfill its promise to the world.
Find Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Explore our FAQ section to get quick answers to common questions about our services, pricing, features, and global compliance solutions.
What is Layer Zero?
Layer Zero connects students with global communities to build the foundational social layer supporting decentralized open-source technology protocols. Participants engage in promoting education, innovation, and collaboration for financial, technological, and educational empowerment.
Who can apply to Layer Zero?
The program is open to all undergraduate-aged students with a passion for Bitcoin. Applicants must be 18 or older, motivated to learn, and committed to the program’s mission.
What is the duration of the program?
The program lasts approximately 2.5 months, from June 1 to August 15, depending on the project, location, and student’s (academic) schedule.
Is this an all-expenses-paid program?
Yes! All expenses for travel, accommodation, food, and other potential logistics costs are fully covered, allowing participants to focus entirely on their internship without financial burden. This is a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the Bitcoin ecosystem while receiving full financial support.
Where will I be working?
Participants will work in global locations where Bitcoin adoption and financial inclusion can have the most impact. These locations may include emerging markets or areas with limited access to traditional banking services. Specific locations will be assigned based on the needs of local Bitcoin communities and participant preferences, ranging from circular economies to operational, technical and infrastructure-related projects.
What kind of projects will I be working on?
These are not behind desk jobs. You will be furthering Bitcoin adoption through in the field operational initiatives which could include teaching local communities about Bitcoin, helping set up local Bitcoin payment systems, and contributing to real world applications powered by Bitcoin. The specific project you’ll be involved in will depend on the community’s needs.
Do I need to speak another language?
Multilingual skills are a plus, but basic English (or the local language) and translation tools are sufficient for most assignments.
What kind of skills do I need?
Participants should demonstrate open-mindedness, a willingness to take on any task, and the ability to leave their ego at the door. A strong team-player attitude, a commitment to proof of work, and adaptability are key. Additionally, being passionate about global collaboration, acting with integrity, and equipped with excellent communication and problem-solving skills are essential for success.
How do I apply?
Visit the "Apply Now" page.
What is the selection process?
Applications are reviewed, followed by interviews. Final decisions are based on alignment with program goals.
How will I be matched to an “internship?”
We’re here to connect your unique skills and passions with the right community, creating opportunities for growth, real collaboration, and lasting impact. It’s about finding the perfect fit where you can thrive and make a difference together.
What will I gain from this experience?
You’ll gain hands-on experience with the communities reshaping society and experience in the language of the future, while honing cross-cultural communication skills. This is an excellent opportunity to build your professional network by connecting with peers who are shaping the future. Additionally, you'll develop leadership and problem-solving skills, enhance your adaptability in diverse environments, and gain a standout experience to strengthen your resume and career trajectory.
What happens if I encounter challenges?
The program is designed to support you every step of the way. You'll have access to experienced mentors who can offer guidance and insights, coordinators who help address logistical or program-related concerns, and a supportive network of peers to brainstorm solutions and share experiences. Whether you're facing technical difficulties, cultural adjustments, or project-related hurdles, you'll be equipped with the tools, resources, and a collaborative community to navigate challenges and grow from the experience.
Is the program a paid position?
While not a salaried program, all expenses are covered, and participants gain unparalleled experience and networking opportunities.
Where can I go for more information?
Contact us at contact@bitcoinstudentsnetwork.org.
Legal Disclosures
Please note that legal disclosures, including waivers, will need to be signed prior to participation. These waivers clarify that the Bitcoin Students Network and its affiliates will not be held liable for any personal, financial, or other risks encountered during your involvement in the program. Participants are responsible for their own actions and decisions throughout the experience.