In the fast-paced world of blockchain, big moves from heavy hitters like Y Combinator (YC) can signal major shifts. Recently, YC teamed up with Coinbase and Base to launch a fresh Request for Startups (RFS) called "Build Onchain." This initiative is all about funding and supporting teams ready to rewrite fintech from the ground up using crypto technology. The buzz started with a post from Base featuring a video chat between Jesse Pollak, the mind behind Base, and Harj Taggar from YC. Drew Coffman, a key player in the Base ecosystem, chimed in, calling it "extremely cool" and highlighting the chance to get funded for onchain fintech projects.

If you're new to the term, an RFS is YC's way of spotlighting areas they're excited about and encouraging founders to apply for their accelerator program. This one is laser-focused on what they're dubbing Fintech 3.0. To break it down simply: Fintech 1.0 was about digitizing money moves in the '90s, think early online payments like PayPal teaching folks how to pay digitally. Fintech 2.0 ramped things up in the last decade with tools like Stripe and Plaid, making banking services more accessible through APIs and banking-as-a-service (BaaS) providers.

Now, Fintech 3.0 is where crypto shines. It's about building an entirely new financial system on blockchain—where payments zip around the globe instantly, 24/7, at rock-bottom costs, and users truly own their assets in digital wallets. No more middlemen holding the reins. Recent U.S. regulatory wins, like the GENIUS Act and the potential CLARITY Act, are clearing the path for startups to build big without the old legal headaches.

The RFS dives into three hot areas ripe for innovation:

• Stablecoins: These are cryptocurrencies pegged to stable assets like the U.S. dollar, perfect for everyday payments without the volatility of something like Bitcoin. YC's already backed winners here, such as Kontigo and DolarApp for seamless transfers in Latin America, or Aspora tackling payments in South Asia. They're eyeing more platforms that weave stablecoins into lending, savings, and commerce—especially local currency versions for high-inflation spots. For meme token enthusiasts, this means smoother, cheaper ways to trade and launch memecoins, potentially exploding the ecosystem on chains like Base.

• Tokenization and Trading: This is about turning real-world assets—think bonds, art, or even startup equity—into digital tokens on the blockchain. It makes them easy to trade, fractionalize, and access globally. Big players like J.P. Morgan are in with onchain deposit tokens, while startups like Courtyard tokenize collectibles. On the fun side, platforms like Zora and Pump.fun (shoutout to the memecoin launchpad) show how tokenization powers creator coins and viral tokens. YC wants to fund new credit markets, capital formation tools for startups (imagine programmable cap tables), and slick trading interfaces. For the meme crowd, this could mean advanced tools for undercollateralized loans or community-driven funding rounds, leveling up from simple pumps to sustainable projects.

• Apps and Agents: Blockchain isn't just finance; it's a playground for apps and AI agents that hold wallets and interact autonomously. Picture social networks, games, or collab tools where money flows seamlessly. Base, built on Ethereum's Superchain, is primed for this with its low fees and scalability. This opens doors for wild innovations, including AI-driven meme token strategies or onchain games that blend fun with finance.

Why does this matter for meme tokens? Base has become a hotspot for memecoins, thanks to its user-friendly vibe and ties to Coinbase. Pump.fun, mentioned in the RFS, has already launched thousands of tokens, turning ideas into markets in minutes. With YC's backing, we could see funded startups creating better infrastructure—faster DEXes, smarter analytics, or even regulatory-compliant meme funds—that make the memecoin space more robust and accessible. It's not just about the next viral cat coin; it's about building tools that help creators and traders thrive in a maturing onchain economy.

If you're a blockchain builder eyeing this, head over to YC's RFS page or the full blog post for details. The video from Base here is worth a watch—it's a quick 60 seconds packed with inspiration. Who's ready to build the future of finance, one block at a time? As Drew put it, this is your shot to get funded and rewrite fintech onchain. Keep an eye on Meme Insider for more updates on how this unfolds in the meme token world.