In October 2024, we announced a $1.2M commitment to Areta to create the Uniswap Foundation Security Fund to improve access to security audits for hook builders. Since then, the UFSF has committed to subsidizing audits for nine hook teams, and have opened applications for the second round of recipients. Today, we’re thrilled to announce the 16 audit providers that make this initiative possible.
The UFSF's Role in the Ecosystem
The launch of Uniswap v4 represents a new era in permissionless development, introducing hooks: modular plugins that allow developers to build custom logic for pools, swaps, fees, and LP positions. Hooks require advanced security audits to protect users and ensure system integrity, which can be costly for bootstrapped hook builders. "Acquiring a holistic security review from a top-tier firm inherently puts financial pressure on the project,” says Vlady Che from Hacken, a UFSF whitelisted auditor. He continues: “Relieving that pressure from a project team helps support Uniswap's backbone—its ecosystem of projects." In the Uniswap Foundation’s effort to support our community of builders throughout every stage of hook development, we committed a $1,200,000 grant to Areta for the Uniswap Foundation Security Fund (UFSF) to create a competitive marketplace for audits and security services.
Today, the Uniswap Foundation Security Fund welcomes 16 security providers to Areta's marketplace, furthering infrastructure to support teams building on Uniswap v4. These providers bring expertise in DeFi security, formal verification, and smart contract auditing to help hook developers launch secure, innovative products. Additionally, applications for the second cohort of audit subsidies are now open until March 5.
This initiative is crucial because, as Danny Matulula from Fuzzland emphasizes, "Being the bridge between providers and teams that need these services in order to maximize their full potential is very important. It cuts away a lot of financial and technological restrictions and allows projects to focus on building hooks that are both functional and secure."
Apply to receive an audit subsidy here.
UFSF Security Providers
We are thankful to these 16 security providers for joining our mission to secure the future of Uniswap v4:
All 16 of these providers bring proven track records in smart contract security, having collectively secured billions in Total Value Locked (TVL) across the DeFi ecosystem. Their participation in Areta's marketplace ensures hook builders can access quality security reviews. As Giorgio from Dedaub explains, “being part of the UFSF is a chance to help build a safer, more robust foundation for the next generation of decentralized applications, where users can trust the infrastructure that supports their financial activities.”
How to Apply for a Subsidy
The UFSF is accepting applications from teams building v4 hooks for the second cohort. Projects can:
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Submit an interest form to apply for audit subsidies
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Review provider profiles and request quotes through Areta's marketplace
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Select their preferred provider based on expertise and pricing
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Receive support through the entire audit process
Resources
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Cohort 2 Project Application Form: https://areta.fillout.com/cohort-2-projects
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Notion Hub: https://valiant-polo-a06.notion.site/Uniswap-Foundation-Security-Fund-UFSF-1762019bf07380ebb00bca873a98f300
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Auditor Interest Form: link
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UFSF Telegram Group: https://t.me/UniswapSecurityFund
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UFSF Grant Announcement: https://t.co/egNjjLXIjY
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UFSF Cohort #1 Recipient Announcement: https://uniswapfoundation.mirror.xyz/EZFncNsBhPIc-wdqI4LhtWV8WciGUFRZ3kyZfKTczAA