Your open-source journey starts here.
Welcome to OnlyDust - where real devs build open source in Web3.
Whether you’re just joining or already active, this guide will show you how to navigate the platform, find projects, and start contributing fast.
Step 1: Find Your First Playground
Discover
Not sure where to begin? The Discover tab helps you explore what’s out there - ideal starting points, active projects, and what’s currently buzzing:
When you click on the discover tab, you'll be directed to a page where you will be able to see the following:
- Good first issues – easy wins to get your hands dirty.
- Most collaborative – where the action (and teamwork) is.
- Recent activity – stay updated with the latest contributions.
This is your launchpad. Get inspired, get involved.
Step 2: Explore Projects That Speak Your Language
Browse
Browse helps you find projects that match your stack, your interests, and your vibe:
Got a tech stack or ecosystem you love? Use the Browse tab to filter by:
- Languages – Rust, Solidity, Typescript, you name it.
- Ecosystems – From Ethereum to Starknet and beyond.
- Tags – Looking for ZK, tooling, NFTs? It's all there.
Click on a project to see its Overview, Open Issues, Contributors, and Rewards. Ready to contribute? Go straight to Open Issues.
Find your fit, get familiar, and get ready to contribute.
Step 3: Start Contributing
Open Issues
Found an issue you want to work on? This is how you apply and get assigned. Simple, transparent, and contributor-first.
- Read the issue carefully - see if it fits your skills:
- Think you’re the one for the job? Click “I want to work on this issue”:
- Hit “Apply and wait for Assignment.” Write a quick but solid message. Mention:
- Your background or experience (even briefly)
- Why you're interested in this issue
- If possible, how you plan to approach it
This helps maintainers know you're serious, not just randomly clicking.
Be human, be clear, be real. A few honest lines go a long way.
If it’s a fit, you’ll be assigned - and just like that, you’re in.
Time to show what you’ve got.
Beyond the First Issue
Once you’ve dipped your toes in, here’s what else you can explore to go deeper, faster, and further.
Open Source Week (a.k.a. ODHack)
Once a month, the platform lights up. Open Source Week is a 10-day hackathon packed with energy. Projects open up new issues. Maintainers show up. Contributors swarm in.
It’s the best time to learn, connect, ship something valuable - and get noticed.
ODQuests
Not into lone-wolf mode? Join a Squad. Work as a team on a larger mission - one that needs multiple contributors. Great for learning from others, building deeper context, and pushing further.
Ecosystems
Discover all ecosystems within OnlyDust. Find projects, meet contributors, and grow your network in your favorite areas.
Contributor Dashboard
This is where you track everything you do. Transparent, easy to navigate, and yours to own.
- Contributions – Your track record.
- Projects – What you’ve worked on.
- Rewards – See what you’ve earned.
- Public Profile – Your open-source résumé.
Stay Connected
🚀 You’re not in this alone. The OnlyDust community is active, helpful, and here to build:
- Telegram: t.me/odhackers – Get real-time updates, discuss projects, and connect with other devs.
- DevCare Working Groups: Sign up here to access exclusive development resources, stay updated on hackathons, and grow your network.
Let’s Go
You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to start.
Whether you're here to learn, build, or break into Web3 - OnlyDust is your playground.
Let’s build something epic 🔥