The Complete IDO Guide for Crypto Creators (2026)
An Initial DEX Offering (IDO) is a method for launching a new cryptocurrency token directly on a decentralized exchange. This guide explains the IDO process step-by-step, focusing on modern Solana launchpads that combine token creation with an AI website builder. We compare key platforms to help you select the right launchpad for your project.
Key Points
- 1An IDO launches a token directly on a DEX for immediate trading, avoiding traditional fundraising rounds.
- 2Modern Solana launchpads like Spawned.com bundle an AI website builder, saving $29-99/month on web hosting.
- 3Creator revenue is typically 0.30% per trade, with some platforms offering 0.30% ongoing holder rewards.
- 4The average launch fee is 0.1 SOL (~$20), with a 1% perpetual fee post-graduation on advanced platforms.
- 5Success requires a clear website, social plan, and understanding of platform-specific reward structures.
What is an IDO? Definition & Evolution
Beyond just a token launch, today's IDOs are integrated creator platforms.
An Initial DEX Offering (IDO) is a fundraising event where a new cryptocurrency token is launched and made available for trading on a decentralized exchange (DEX) liquidity pool. Unlike older models like ICOs or IEOs, IDOs provide immediate liquidity and trading access.
The model has evolved significantly on chains like Solana. Modern launchpads are no longer just fundraising tools; they are full-stack creator platforms. For example, platforms now integrate AI website builders directly into the token launch process. This means a creator can launch a token and simultaneously generate a professional project website without monthly fees, addressing two core needs at once.
How to Launch an IDO: Step-by-Step Process
Follow these steps to launch your token via an IDO on a Solana launchpad.
Launchpad Comparison: Key Features & Fees
Not all launchpads are built the same. The fee and reward structure defines your project's long-term economics.
Choosing the right platform is critical. Here's a detailed comparison of two popular Solana launchpad approaches.
| Feature | Spawned.com | pump.fun |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Fee | 0.1 SOL (~$20) | 0.02 SOL + 1 SOL Bond* |
| Creator Revenue | 0.30% of every trade | 0% |
| Holder Rewards | 0.30% ongoing to holders | Not available |
| Post-Graduation Fee | 1% perpetual (Token-2022) | Not applicable |
| Website Builder | AI website builder included (Saves $29-99/mo) | No website builder |
| Primary Model | Sustainable creator economy | Volume-driven, no creator fees |
*The 1 SOL bond on pump.fun is refundable upon graduation. The key difference is economic model: Spawned.com builds in continuous rewards for creators and holders, while pump.fun removes all ongoing fees.
The Importance of Holder Rewards in Modern IDOs
A major innovation in newer IDO platforms is the automatic distribution of trading fees to token holders. This isn't just a marketing point; it fundamentally aligns incentives.
- Sustainable Yield: Platforms like Spawned.com allocate 0.30% of every trade directly to holders' wallets. This creates a reason to hold beyond speculation.
- Reduces Sell Pressure: When holders earn a yield simply by holding, they are less likely to sell quickly during minor price dips, promoting stability.
- Community Alignment: It transforms holders from traders into stakeholders with a direct, ongoing interest in the token's trading volume and success.
- Competitive Advantage: In a crowded market, offering holder rewards can be a significant differentiator that attracts longer-term, dedicated community members.
Why an Integrated AI Website Builder Matters
The bundled AI website builder is a practical tool that removes a major cost and time barrier for creators.
Historically, a creator launching a token would need to separately source, pay for, and build a website—a significant hurdle. Modern launchpads solve this by bundling an AI website builder.
Concrete Example: A creator uses Spawned.com. For the 0.1 SOL launch fee, they get their token launched and a fully functional project website. This eliminates the need for a separate service like Wix or Squarespace, saving $29 to $99 per month. The AI builder generates copy, layout, and integrates the token's live price and social links, providing an immediate, professional home for the project. This bundled value is a practical, cost-saving feature that accelerates project legitimacy.
IDO Platform Verdict & Recommendation
The best IDO platform provides lasting value, not just a one-time launch.
For crypto creators launching on Solana, the optimal choice is a platform that provides sustainable economics, holder rewards, and integrated tools.
We recommend creators prioritize launchpads that offer:
- Ongoing Creator Revenue: A model like 0.30% per trade ensures your work is compensated beyond the initial launch.
- Holder Rewards: A 0.30% distribution to holders builds a stronger, more aligned community.
- Integrated AI Website Builder: This saves significant ongoing costs ($29-99/month) and launch-day effort.
- Clear Post-Graduation Path: A defined process, like the 1% perpetual fee using Token-2022, for moving to a permanent DEX presence.
A platform combining these features, such as Spawned.com, offers a more complete and economically sensible foundation for a serious project compared to fee-free models that lack long-term incentive structures.
Ready to Launch Your Token?
You now understand the modern IDO process, from holder rewards to integrated websites. The next step is action.
Launch your Solana token with a built-in AI website today. Save on monthly costs, secure ongoing revenue, and build a project with aligned incentives from the start.
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
Launch fees vary by platform. A common fee is 0.1 SOL (approximately $20). Some platforms have lower upfront costs but may charge a refundable bond (e.g., 1 SOL) or take a higher percentage fee later. Always factor in the value of included tools, like an AI website builder that can save you $29-99 per month in external costs.
Ongoing fees depend on the launchpad. Some, like pump.fun, charge 0% creator fees. Others, like Spawned.com, have a 0.30% fee per trade that is split, with 0.30% going to the creator and 0.30% distributed as rewards to token holders. After a token 'graduates' to a permanent DEX, there may be a perpetual fee (e.g., 1%) for continued platform support and services.
An AI website builder is a tool integrated into some launchpads that automatically generates a professional website for your crypto project. You provide basic info, and the AI creates the layout, writes copy, and embeds widgets like a live token price chart. This is included at no extra monthly cost, saving you the typical $29-99/month you'd pay for a separate website hosting service.
Holder rewards are a percentage of every token trade that is automatically distributed to all current token holders. For example, if a platform has a 0.30% holder reward, then 0.30% of the value of every buy and sell transaction is shared proportionally among holders. This provides a continuous yield, encouraging long-term holding and creating a more stable community for your project.
After launch, your token trades in the initial liquidity pool on the launchpad's DEX. Most platforms have a 'graduation' threshold (e.g., $75,000 market cap). Upon hitting this, your token's liquidity is migrated to a permanent decentralized exchange like Raydium. The launchpad may continue to support it with a small perpetual fee (e.g., 1%) for services like the website and reward distribution.
For most creators today, yes. IDOs provide immediate liquidity and trading on a DEX, are generally faster and less expensive to execute, and have more transparent processes than older ICOs. Compared to IEOs (which are on centralized exchanges), IDOs offer more decentralization and direct community access. Modern IDOs on Solana also add valuable features like built-in websites and holder rewards that older models lack.
No, you do not need coding skills. Modern Solana launchpads are designed for creators with no technical background. The process is a guided, form-based interface where you name your token, set parameters, and upload images. The platform handles the smart contract deployment, liquidity pool creation, and if offered, will even generate your project website using AI, all without writing a single line of code.
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