Governance-focused cryptocurrencies are:
1. Ethereum (ETH)
While not a governance token by design, Ethereum enables decentralized governance through its community and protocol upgrades (e.g., Ethereum Improvement Proposals - EIPs).
2. Maker (MKR)
Governance Role: MakerDAO's decentralized finance (DeFi) protocol.
Use: MKR holders vote on decisions regarding the DAI stablecoin system, such as risk parameters and protocol upgrades.
3. Tezos (XTZ)
Governance Role: On-chain governance model.
Use: Stakeholders can propose, vote on, and implement changes without hard forks.
4. Aave (AAVE)
Governance Role: Controls Aave Protocol.
Use: AAVE token holders vote on protocol upgrades, fee structures, and risk parameters for the lending and borrowing platform.
5. Compound (COMP)
Governance Role: Decentralized governance for Compound Protocol.
Use: COMP holders propose and vote on changes like interest rate models and supported assets.
6. Polkadot (DOT)
Governance Role: Network upgrades and parachain auctions.
Use: DOT holders vote on proposed changes and participate in decision-making for network updates.
7. Uniswap (UNI)
Governance Role: Directs the development and operation of the Uniswap protocol.
Use: UNI holders vote on proposals regarding fee structure, treasury usage, and protocol upgrades.
8. Algorand (ALGO)
Governance Role: Pure proof-of-stake model with community participation.
Use: ALGO holders participate in governance decisions like protocol updates and ecosystem funding.
9. Dash (DASH)
Governance Role: Decentralized autonomous organization (DAO).
Use: DASH holders vote on proposals for funding projects within the ecosystem.
10. Curve DAO Token (CRV)
Governance Role: Managing the Curve Finance protocol.
Use: CRV holders influence protocol parameters and how incentives are distributed.
These projects are highly regarded in the crypto space for their strong focus on governance and community-driven decision-making.