Unlocking web3's full potential with ankr: a conversation with tyler sloan

Sam kamani

August 26, 2025

Ankr might not be as flashy as some Layer 1s, but it’s quietly powering much of Web3’s backend. As Tyler explains, Ankr provides decentralized RPC (Remote Procedure Call) services—essentially the communication bridge between dApps and blockchain networks. Whether you’re running a DeFi app, NFT marketplace, or blockchain game, chances are, you’re hitting an RPC node. And that’s where Ankr comes in.

But they’re not stopping there.

From zero to rollup in minutes

One of the most exciting developments at Ankr is their no-code rollup deployer. In Tyler’s words, it’s “blockchain deployment for non-PhDs.” Imagine launching your own rollup without worrying about sequencers, data availability layers, or consensus mechanics. Just plug in your parameters, and go. For developers and businesses looking to scale, this is a game changer—especially in a multichain world that’s only getting more complex.

Staking meets Bitcoin

Ankr isn’t just building tooling—they’re expanding the boundaries of what’s possible in DeFi. Tyler teases their upcoming efforts in enabling staking for Bitcoin. While Bitcoin has historically lagged behind in DeFi utility, new infrastructure—like rollups and smart contract layers—are making it possible to bring yield-generation and other DeFi primitives to BTC holders. Ankr wants to be at the forefront of this shift.

Who uses Ankr?

From sports-focused chains like Chiliz to high-volume DeFi protocols and fast-paced gaming projects, Ankr’s customer base is diverse. Tyler notes that one of Ankr’s biggest advantages is that it can serve both seasoned developers and enterprises that are just beginning their Web3 journey.

The product manager’s challenge in Web3

Tyler’s own story—transitioning from academia into Web3 product management—offers a window into the unique challenges of the space. In a field where standards are still forming and user expectations evolve quickly, being a PM requires not just technical fluency, but an ability to see around corners. Tyler shares practical advice for newcomers: get close to the user, move fast, and learn how to frame trade-offs clearly.

What’s next for Ankr?

Looking ahead, Ankr plans to expand its rollup-as-a-service platform, explore new integrations at the AI-blockchain intersection, and continue optimizing RPC reliability for enterprise clients. Tyler also mentions a growing focus on modular infrastructure—a theme we expect to see a lot more of as Web3 matures.

Key insights

Infrastructure is the invisible scaffolding of Web3
Projects like Ankr that provide the backend services enable the rest of the ecosystem to thrive.

No-code deployment is more than a UX choice—it’s an accessibility unlock
Rollup deployers like Ankr’s could significantly reduce time-to-market for new chains.

Staking BTC might be closer than we think
With Bitcoin L2 solutions gaining traction, staking on Bitcoin could go from theoretical to practical in the near future.

‍ Web3 PMs need to balance ambiguity, speed, and strategy
In a space where the ground shifts constantly, product leaders have to build intuition fast—and stay grounded in real user pain points.

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