GILD Community Corner: 2025 Review and 2026 Goals!

Written by Phil Eborn, Director of Community

Last year, we saw exceptional growth in the merchant network and a huge leap in engagement from the community. Our merchant numbers grew from 1,902 to 3,581 (an 88% increase!). We plan to build on that momentum in 2026 and launch the network to new heights.

A Look Back at 2025

In 2025, we launched new programs and incentives that had a big impact on the network. Thanks to these programs, we saw strong participation from both individuals and distributors.

The GILD Network

In June, we launched the Goldback Interchange & Local Development (GILD) network. Through this program, passionate ambassadors came together to build local Goldback economies in their communities. In just seven months, the community grew quickly:

• GILD membership grew to 577
• There are GILD members in all 50 states 

Local GILD chapters continue to meet, sharing ideas on how to grow Goldback acceptance in their communities. They connect people and businesses through the exchange of real gold for goods and services. 

The LER Program

With the launch of the Florida Series in January, we introduced the Limited Early Release (LER) program to reward those who sign up new businesses to accept Goldbacks as payment. This program continued with the Oklahoma and Arizona series. In August, we expanded the LER Program by offering a Silverback reward for non-Goldback states.  

The response was incredible: 

• Several community members signed up more than 30 businesses each
• One distributor signed up over 50 businesses

Moving into 2026

2026 promises to be another monumental year of merchant growth! GILD chapters are continuing to grow, and the LER program will keep rewarding those who are helping build local merchant networks.  

We have a lofty goal to double the merchant network in 2026, but we’ll need your help to do it. We’re confident that together we’ll be able to bring more financial freedom to your local communities. 

Our team is here to support you as we work together to build a resilient, inflation-resistant economy!