Infrared Staking Protocol Launches IR Token Airdrop on Berachain

Infrared, the pioneering liquid staking solution in the Berachain ecosystem, has unveiled its IR token airdrop program designed to reward early supporters and active community participants. This marks a significant milestone for the protocol, which recently secured $14 million in Series A funding led by Framework Ventures. The token launch represents a major step forward in Berachain’s DeFi infrastructure development, offering users innovative ways to participate in staking and governance within the growing ecosystem.

How IR Token Staking Works: Governance, Rewards, and Efficiency

The IR token serves three primary functions that drive the protocol’s long-term value. First, users can stake IR tokens to receive sIR in return, granting them governance voting rights within the Infrared protocol. This staking mechanism allows token holders to have a direct say in protocol decisions and development priorities.

Second, the protocol implements a sophisticated revenue-sharing model through its “Red Fund” mechanism. A portion of protocol fees collected through platform activities flows directly into this dedicated fund for IR token buybacks and burns, creating long-term value for staking participants.

Third, the IR token plays an optimizing role in protocol efficiency, helping balance resource allocation and revenue generation across the Berachain network.

Airdrop Timeline and Claim Details

The IR token airdrop was made available to early community members, Boyco pre-deposit participants, and users who actively engaged in community activities. Originally announced in mid-December, the airdrop operated on a structured timeline: a pre-deposit window in mid-December allowed users to prepare claims through centralized exchange partners, while token listing occurred on December 17.

The claims period extended through January 12, 2026, after which all airdrop claims were permanently closed. As of February 2026, the airdrop distribution phase has concluded, though non-exchange claims had been available through the token generation event for eligible participants who completed the process within the specified timeframe.

Backing the Future of Berachain’s Liquid Staking Ecosystem

Infrared’s emergence as the first dedicated liquid staking protocol on Berachain reflects growing investor confidence in the network’s potential. The $14 million Series A round led by prominent crypto investment firm Framework Ventures signals strong institutional backing for the project.

The liquid staking concept has become essential infrastructure in modern blockchain networks, allowing users to earn staking rewards while maintaining liquidity. Infrared positions itself as a critical component in this ecosystem, enabling Berachain users to maximize their capital efficiency through innovative staking solutions. As the protocol matures, the IR token’s governance and fee-sharing mechanisms are designed to create a sustainable model that rewards long-term protocol participants and staking contributors.