New Solana Non-Profit Aims to Educate Lawmakers - Could It Tip the Scales for SOL ETF Approvals?

Solana as an asset is maturing before our eyes. Against a backdrop of pending $SOL ETF approvals and growing demand for institutional staking, a new organization has launched to educate crypto policy makers on the benefits of decentralized networks.

Non-profit and non-partisan, the Solana Policy Institute (SPI) aims to pave the way for greater regulatory clarity surrounding internet-based global economies.

With a pro-crypto SEC calling the shots in Washington, how might the SPI help lawmakers create progressive policies for the collective good of the industry?

Introducing the Solana Policy Institute

Touted as a pivotal moment not only for Solana, but the crypto industry at large, March 31st marks the launch of the Solana Policy Institute. 

A new non-profit operating separately from the Solana Foundation, SPI is a non-partisan organization committed to assisting policymakers make informed decisions on crypto regulations.

Led by Miller Whitehouse-Levine, SPI will unite leaders from across the Solana ecosystem to provide valuable insights and educate regulators on the transformative opportunities and innovations made possible through decentralized systems.

From DePINs offering free mobile plans to DeFi apps democratizing financial tooling at unprecedented scale, Solana is home to a wealth of real-world applications driving positive economic and social impact across communities. 

“This is the moment to establish the clear rules of the road for the crypto industry. Innovators deserve to have the clarity they need to build a frictionless, internet-based global economy — a future we believe is achievable with the right laws, rules, and frameworks. Working alongside powerhouse crypto advocates in Washington, SPI will stand firmly behind the principles of decentralization, and will work tirelessly to accelerate the industry’s positive momentum by elevating strong case studies taking place across the Solana network.” - Miller Whitehouse-Levine, Solana Policy Institute CEO

Former Defi Education Fund CEO Whitehouse-Levine brings comprehensive knowledge and experience to the SPI. Prior to leading the DEF, Whitehouse-Levine led the Blockchain Association’s policy operation and was a Public Policy Associate at Goldstein Policy Solutions.

Additionally, Whitehouse-Levine has already rubbed shoulders with government officials in Washington, DC. In Q4 2016, Whitehouse-Levine completed a Congressional internship at the U.S. House of Representatives.

Could SPI Support SOL ETF Applications?

With TradFi giants like Fidelity and Franklin Templeton leading the charge, the race toward spot Solana ETF approvals continues. Having acknowledged several filings, the SEC is now soliciting feedback from industry experts before either approving or denying $SOL ETF applications.

On March 20, Solana spot ETF approval odds were given a welcome boost following the launch of Volatility Shares Solana futures ETFs ($SOLZ and $SOLT). Industry experts, including Bloomberg Senior ETF Analyst Eric Balchunas, argue that existing futures contracts are an essential prerequisite for spot ETF approvals.

While communication between SPI and the SEC regarding Solana ETF applications hasn’t been confirmed, the Solana Policy Institute is well-positioned to provide critical guidance and establish itself as an authority on these topics. 

By connecting with industry leaders and helping them share their stories with policymakers, the SIP could become one of the ecosystem’s biggest advocates and contribute to the formation of Solana ETFs and institutional staking policies.

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