Dutch Web3 gaming startup D-Drops secures €500K from ROM Utrecht; launches treasure hunt game with prize pool of €100k 

Utrecht-based D-Drops, a WEB3 gaming startup, recently announced that it has secured €500K in pre-seed funding led by ROM Utrecht, becoming the first Dutch government-backed crypto startup.

The funding will support the launch of its location-based treasure-hunting game, where players must set out on an adventure across their cities and discover real-world rewards.

The gaming platform, set to go live on June 15th, encourages players to go outside, discover new experiences, and support local businesses.

“As gamers ourselves, we know how fun it is to explore new worlds and discover hidden secrets. We’re excited to bring that same sense of adventure to the real world,” says Shair Amiri, CEO and co-founder of D-Drops.

“We hope that our game gives people a reason to go outside, explore new areas of their cities, and along the way make meaningful memories while having fun,” adds Amiri.

D-Drops: Adding adventure to people’s lives

Founded by three brothers from the Netherlands, Shair Amiri (CEO), Zamir Amiri (CTO), and Samir Amiri (COO), D-Drops’ mission is to add adventure to people’s daily lives.

The game combines location-based treasure hunting with real-world rewards.

The game will first be available in Amsterdam and Utrecht, with an initial prize pool of €100,000.

However, the company is also planning for an international rollout, with expansion plans already in motion for the near future.

The platform allows players to explore their cities in search of treasures containing real-world prizes such as cash, concert tickets, merchandise, and coupons, worth up to €100.

The investor

The Regional Development Agency (ROM) Utrecht Region helps innovative entrepreneurs in the Utrecht Region who contribute to a future-proof living environment, healthy people, and valuable digitisation.

“D-Drops is a great example of how gamification can be used to drive economic growth, promote healthy habits, and create a sense of community within our cities,” says Arjan van den Born, Director ROM Utrecht.

“We are committed to supporting innovative solutions that bring people together, and we’re eager to see the impact of this initiative inspire others,” adds van den Born.