From Ice to Innovation- Why Business Development in Web3 is maybe My Next Shift

When you come from a background in coaching, your job is never just about the game. It’s about systems, strategy, and making sure every player understands the role they play in the bigger picture. Surprisingly, that’s exactly what drew me to the business side of Web3. Just like a well-run team, decentralized protocols need vision, coordination, and structure. Especially when it comes to growth.

And that’s where business development steps in.

What is Business Development in a Web3 Protocol?

In Web2, business development might mean partnerships, customer acquisition, or enterprise sales. In Web3, it’s all of that, but layered with the unique dynamics of decentralized ecosystems. Here’s what it actually looks like:

• Partnership Strategy- Identifying and onboarding integrations that expand protocol usage—wallets, Layer 2s, dApps, bridges, or tooling platforms.

• Community & Ecosystem Growth- Coordinating developer relations, DAO involvement, or ambassador programs to ensure organic adoption.

• Market Research & Positioning- Understanding where your protocol fits in the broader ecosystem, and how to differentiate it amid fierce competition.

• Token Incentives & Governance- Working with core contributors or DAOs to shape incentive programs, bootstrap liquidity, or align incentives between builders and users.

• Metrics That Matter- Tracking TVL, active wallets, protocol usage, and ecosystem engagement to inform strategic decisions.

Business development is part growth strategist, part ecosystem architect, and a bridge between the protocol’s tech stack and its real-world value.

Why This Role Aligns with My Journey

I've spent my entire career focused on high-performance systems and communication. As a hockey coach, my job was to analyze the game, translate strategy, and get every moving piece to function together. That’s exactly what business development in Web3 demands.

Here’s what I bring-

Systems Thinking- Whether designing plays or coordinating Layer 2 partnerships, it’s about reading the full ice, seeing the gaps and aligning each move with the bigger goal.

Strategic Communication- My background in leadership and writing helps me translate complex concepts to different audiences. Whether it’s developers, DAOs, or partner teams.

Growth Mindset- I’m leveling up fast. Studying the EVM, understanding rollups, writing deep-dive articles, and using every learning as momentum toward real-world contribution.

Execution Under Pressure- In both sports and tech, the clock is always ticking. I know how to operate in fast-paced environments where trust, clarity, and timely execution make the difference.

Where I Want to Go From Here

I’m not just trying to break into Web3. I’m aiming to be part of the infrastructure that makes the next generation of the internet possible. I want to be part of a protocol team that’s solving real problems- scalability, UX, privacy, and financial inclusion.

Business development lets me connect the dots between technical teams, users, and long-term impact. It’s the role where my skills, mindset, and ambition all intersect.

Final Thoughts

Just like in hockey, the game isn't always won with flashy plays. It’s won with coordination, trust, and systems that work under pressure. That’s the kind of team I want to build in Web3. And that’s why business development is where I may be skating next.