How to Buy Gitcoin (GTCS) in 2025

As blockchain technology continues to expand into public goods and digital infrastructure, Gitcoin stands out as a leading platform supporting open-source innovation. At the heart of its decentralized funding model is the Gitcoin (GTCS) token—a governance and utility asset that fuels collective decision-making, protocol upgrades, and community grants. In 2025, as public funding mechanisms gain traction in Web3, owning GTCS offers both utility and influence in the future of open collaboration. This guide explores what GTCS is, how it works, and how to buy and store it securely with top crypto wallets.

What is Gitcoin (GTCS)?

Gitcoin is a decentralized platform focused on funding digital public goods, particularly open-source software. Originally launched in 2017, Gitcoin started as a grants and bounty network built on Ethereum. Over time, it evolved into a governance-driven protocol with the launch of Gitcoin Staked (GTCS), a token designed to reinforce Gitcoin’s decentralized identity and operations.

The token plays a crucial role in stewarding the Gitcoin ecosystem, enabling holders to participate in governance through GitcoinDAO and influence how capital is allocated across a range of open-source initiatives. Gitcoin gained widespread popularity due to its “Quadratic Funding” model, which amplifies donations based on community support—democratizing funding decisions for builders.

As of 2025, GTCS remains a key asset in supporting decentralized grants, identity systems, and coordination infrastructure.

How does Gitcoin (GTCS) work?

GTCS is more than just a governance token—it’s a mechanism that powers decision-making, grants distribution, and the staking of trust within the Gitcoin protocol. Here’s how it functions:

  • Governance. GTCS holders vote on proposals in GitcoinDAO, influencing everything from matching pool allocations to new protocol deployments.

  • Staking for trust. GTCS can be staked in Gitcoin Passport and related systems to signal trustworthiness and identity verification within the ecosystem.

  • Funding mechanism. While Gitcoin Grants use various tokens for donations, GTCS plays a role in determining matching mechanisms and governance participation.

  • Public goods infrastructure. GTCS is central to Gitcoin’s long-term strategy of building decentralized infrastructure to fund and maintain digital public goods.

The token aligns incentives between developers, donors, and the wider community, allowing for scalable, decentralized coordination.

Top 10 Best Crypto Wallets to Buy Gitcoin (GTCS) in 2025 – Comparison

To store and manage GTCS in 2025, a wallet must support Ethereum-based tokens (ERC-20). Below are 10 top wallets suitable for buying, storing, and managing GTCS:

1. Walletverse

Walletverse - best crypto wallet

Walletverse is a multi-currency, self-custody crypto wallet built for everyday users and advanced traders alike. With support for 600+ tokens including GTCS, and direct fiat purchase options (via Apple Pay, Google Pay, and credit/debit cards), it provides seamless access to the Gitcoin ecosystem. The wallet also features passcode and biometric protection, staking, and dApp access.

  • Pros: Direct fiat-to-GTCS access, mobile-first, secure, integrated dApps.

     

  • Cons: Currently mobile-only.

     

Google Play

2. MetaMask

Metamask website screenshot

MetaMask is one of the most widely used wallets in the Ethereum ecosystem. GTCS is supported by default, and the wallet can be used to vote on Gitcoin governance proposals or connect with DeFi apps.

  • Pros: Browser and mobile versions, flexible, integrates with GitcoinDAO.

  • Cons: Requires manual network configuration for advanced features.

3. Coinbase Wallet

Coinbase website screenshot

Coinbase Wallet is a secure self-custody wallet compatible with GTCS and Ethereum dApps. It’s ideal for users already familiar with the Coinbase ecosystem.

  • Pros: Clean UI, integrates with WalletConnect, secure.

  • Cons: Limited advanced DeFi tools.

4. Trust Wallet

Trust Wallet website screenshot

Trust Wallet offers native support for GTCS and other Ethereum-based tokens. It features built-in token swaps, NFT storage, and a dApp browser for easy interaction with Gitcoin-related applications.

  • Pros: User-friendly, supports ERC-20 tokens and NFTs, mobile-first.

  • Cons: No desktop version.

5. Ledger Nano

Ledger nano x website screenshot

Ledger Nano S or X supports cold storage for GTCS. When paired with MetaMask, users can vote in Gitcoin governance and access other Ethereum dApps securely.

  • Pros: Top-tier security, compatible with dApps.

  • Cons: Requires external device and setup.

6. Trezor

Trezor website screenshot

Trezor also supports GTCS with integration through Web3 wallets like MetaMask. It provides offline storage and private key protection.

  • Pros: Secure cold storage, open-source firmware.

  • Cons: No native dApp interface.

7. SafePal

Safepal s 1 website screenshot

SafePal offers both software and hardware wallet options. It supports GTCS and connects to multiple blockchains. It includes a DeFi gateway and NFT marketplace support.

  • Pros: Multi-chain, hardware wallet available, mobile DeFi hub.

  • Cons: Steeper learning curve for new users.

8. Guarda Wallet

Guarda wallet website screenshot

Guarda provides multi-device access with GTCS support. It includes encrypted backups, staking (on select tokens), and a built-in exchange.

  • Pros: Cross-platform, Web3 access, privacy-friendly.

  • Cons: Premium features may require payment.

9. Atomic Wallet

Atomic wallet website screenshort

Atomic Wallet is a desktop and mobile wallet supporting GTCS and hundreds of ERC-20 tokens. It offers in-wallet swaps and private key ownership.

  • Pros: No KYC, good token coverage, non-custodial.

  • Cons: Limited integration with DeFi apps.

10. Exodus

Exodus website screenshot

Exodus offers a sleek wallet interface with GTCS support through custom token addition. It’s best for casual users who want simple storage and swaps.

  • Pros: Easy to use, desktop + mobile, integrated swap.

  • Cons: Lacks deep DeFi functionality.

Where Can I Store Gitcoin (GTCS)?

GTCS is an Ethereum-based token, so it can be stored in any wallet supporting ERC-20 assets. Walletverse offers a modern, mobile-friendly experience with full self-custody, integrated fiat purchasing, advanced security, and support for Web3 tools—making it a top choice for GTCS holders in 2025.

Gitcoin’s mission to fund public goods through decentralized governance is gaining recognition as an essential layer of the Web3 ecosystem. The GTCS token empowers users to actively shape that mission, offering both utility and influence. Whether you’re contributing to open-source projects or supporting decentralized governance, holding GTCS ensures you have a voice in Web3’s future. With a wallet like Walletverse, buying and managing GTCS is simple, secure, and fully self-directed.

FAQ

Most frequent questions and answers

GTCS is a utility and governance token tied to one of the most respected public goods funding platforms in Web3. Its long-term value depends on the growth of Gitcoin’s ecosystem and community participation.

You can purchase GTCS directly in the Walletverse app using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a debit/credit card in multiple fiat currencies.

GTCS is used for governance, staking in identity systems, signaling trust, and influencing funding decisions in GitcoinDAO. It plays a central role in building and funding digital public goods.