February 22, 2026
10 mins
If you landed here, you’re probably looking for the next token that will skyrocket; maybe even the “next Bitcoin.” You’re not alone. Many people come to crypto hoping to find the project that delivers a 1,000x return. And while that’s possible, not everything that shines is gold.
Crypto investments can deliver higher returns than traditional finance tools like bonds or hedge funds. But they are also volatile, driven by market cycles and investor sentiment. Understanding how to identify opportunities and where to find them is key.
One of the most structured ways to access early-stage tokens is through IDO launchpads. In this blog, we’ll explore how you can make money with them, where the risks lie, and whether they can really provide passive income.
IDO launchpads function like startup incubators in Web3. They give projects structure and visibility while offering investors access to new tokens.
Some launchpads are token-gated, meaning you must hold and stake their native token to participate. In these cases, staking can generate rewards while also giving you access to project allocations.
At CoinTerminal, the model is different. We are a non-token-gated, non-staking launchpad. We don’t require you to lock up another volatile token before investing. Instead, you can directly use stablecoins to participate in sales, reducing unnecessary risk.
On many launchpads, allocation works on a tiered system. The more you stake, the higher your tier, and the larger your share of a project’s tokens.
At CoinTerminal, there are no tiers. Instead, we use a first-come, first-served model for our open access sales. Once you complete KYC, you’re eligible to participate, regardless of wallet size.
On tiered launchpads, your potential earnings depend on how much you commit to the system. Higher tiers may secure larger allocations, but they also require greater upfront investment and exposure to the volatility of the launchpad’s native token.
CoinTerminal avoids this barrier. Everyone has an equal opportunity to participate, and allocation isn’t tied to staking levels.
Vesting schedules determine when tokens are unlocked and available on the market. They directly affect the token price and your ability to realize gains.
For example, if a token looks overvalued at launch but has a large number of locked tokens set to be released later, the price is likely inflated. Once those tokens hit the market, the value may fall.
Understanding vesting schedules is part of analyzing tokenomics. They are designed to help projects sustain value over time, but they also shape your short- and long-term earnings. Check our dedicated tokenomics blog for a more in-depth analysis.
Yes, but understanding it appropriately. By income, people usually expect a predictable amount, like a salary. IDO launchpads don’t work that way. Instead, they operate like investments.
Some projects deliver high returns, others don’t. Earnings depend on your risk level, strategy, and timing. If you treat it as an investment, researching projects, understanding tokenomics, and managing entry and exit points effectively, yes, you can earn a meaningful income over time.
Absolutely. Launchpad participation can form part of a broader strategy known as yield farming. Investors often combine early-stage token access with other strategies like staking, liquidity provision, or lending to diversify income streams.
Launchpads, like any other investment tool, have risks. Consider the following:
Passive income in crypto is not automatic. It requires active monitoring and strategy. Tools can help you track token releases, market demand, and automate parts of your investment process, but human judgment remains crucial.
It can be; if you approach it responsibly. Like all Web3 investments, sustainability comes down to doing your own research, managing risk, and diversifying.
IDO launchpads give investors a structured way to access early-stage opportunities, but they are not “money machines.” They are investment platforms that reward knowledge and timing.
Yes, you can make income with IDO launchpads. For founders, they provide a pathway to funding and community growth. For investors, they offer a chance to engage with projects at the earliest stages and capture potentially high returns.
At CoinTerminal, we make participation easier through open-access sales, refundable contributions, and monthly lotteries. Even if you request a refund, you remain eligible to win.
Check out our active sales today; you could be part of the next big win.
This article is for educational purposes only. It is a general guide for founders and users navigating the Web3 space. It does not constitute financial advice. Always do your own research before making any investment decisions.If you want to learn more about raising funds or which IDOs to look into, our team is here to help. Feel free to reach out to us on Telegram at any time.