According to Ethereum Research forum, a proposal posted June 21 by user Clesaege would let validators redirect up to 10% of staking rewards to ecosystem development funding. Once more than 51% of validators approve a non-zero redirect rate, the contribution becomes mandatory for all validators.
The proposal could raise 50,000 to 70,000 ETH annually, addressing a funding gap after the Client Incentive Program lapsed in April 2026 and Ethereum Foundation began reducing spending against estimated $30 million in annual development costs. Critics, including developer MicahZoltu, raised concerns that a validator majority could redirect funds to themselves, though the proposal author estimates the risk below 1% and notes the 10% cap limits potential abuse.