CoW DAO launches delegate program for token holders

CoW DAO is launching a token delegation program for token holders. This will allow token holders to delegate their tokens to vetted members of the CoW DAO community who are able to participate in CoW DAO governance on their behalf.

This is an important step for the CoW DAO community, as it helps increase participation and improves public discourse.

Why would you delegate your vote?

There are many reasons why you’d delegate your vote to a third party.

It’s more time efficient: If you don’t have the time to stay on top of every proposal, delegating ensures your votes are still contributing to the direction of CoW DAO.

You can collaborate with experts: You can delegate to someone with deeper knowledge or specialized expertise in areas critical to the DAO's success.

It increases your Influence: Feel strongly about a CIP? Pooling votes with a trusted delegate can amplify your collective impact on key decisions.

It gives you more flexibility: Delegation allows you to remain a part of the DAO even if you can't engage consistently.

It helps build stronger governance: By delegating to active participants, you contribute to creating a more robust and responsive decision-making process.

It strengthens the community: Delegation helps empower those who are deeply committed to advancing the DAO's mission, fostering a healthier ecosystem.

What happens to my tokens when I delegate?

Even though you have delegated your votes to a third party, you retain a number of key features.

You can still vote directly - even if you’ve allocated your tokens to a third party, you still have the ability to vote on future CIPs.

You can re-assign or revoke your delegation at any point - If you feel your delegator is not voting in accordance with your values, you can revoke your vote, and re-allocate it at any time.

Your tokens remain in your account and are not frozen - Yep, you can use your tokens as you see fit. Want to buy more or sell tokens? You can. If you reduce or increase the voting power attached to your account, the delegate’s voting power updates accordingly.

There is no expiration date set for your delegation, so make sure you keep an eye on how your delegate is voting. A few other key points: Your delegate cannot delegate onwards and you cannot split your voting power across multiple delegates.

How do I delegate my tokens?

We’ve made finding the right delegate, and assigning your tokens as simple as possible. There are two pathways. Below is a step-by-step process of each.

Process 1: Via the CoW DAO Forum

Step 1: Find your delegate

Scroll down and you’ll find a heading called “Current List of Recognised Delegates”. Click a delegate's name to be taken to their Snapshot profile.

Step 2: Click the ‘delegate’ button on the delegate’s profile

Once you’re on the Snapshot page for a delegator, you will find a delegate button, in the top right hand corner.

Head to the CoW DAO forum and the dedicated page for Delegates called “Recognised Delegates Scheme”.

Step 3: Follow the instructions to connect your wallet

A pop-up box should appear for you to connect your wallet of choice. Follow the instructions from there.

Process 2: Via the Snapshot Delegates Overview

Head to Snapshot’s Delegation tab.

You will then be able to view all current delegates. You also have the option to sort via voting power, or number of delegators currently assigned.

Please note: It is recommended you do not delegate to anyone without a statement, and to always do your own research before committing to a delegate.

How do I see who I have delegated to?

There are two options.

A Dune Dashboard - Head to the Dune dashboard and paste the address of your delegate; or scroll down and paste your own address

Snapshot - Snapshot has a new UI which allows users to see who they have delegated to.

How do I contact my delegate?

You can contact your delegate by heading here, finding your delegate and contacting them directly.

Who gets to be a delegate?

Anyone can become a CoW DAO delegate, at any point in time, there is no “program close”. Becoming a delegate is permissionless.

However, to become a recognized delegate, there is a vetting process. Recognized delegates have to be vetted by at least one member of the GrantsDAO committee based on subjective evaluations of their expertise, knowledge, and contributions.

These delegates must allocate 10,000 COW tokens to their delegate address, signaling alignment with the community’s goals. They are also expected to disclose any conflicts of interest.

Delegates who wish to be included can reach out to the GrantsDAO committee by linking their introduction in this thread. They are also encouraged to introduce themselves on the CoW DAO Forum (using this introduction template) and complete their Snapshot profiles.

In summary: Delegation increases engagement in CoW DAO governance

CoW DAO is committed to creating a robust, balanced, and effective governance structure. We believe a delegate program helps deliver on that promise.

The delegation program fosters participation, enhances decision-making, and improves public discourse. It strengthens CoW DAO’s ecosystem and contributes to its long-term success.