Adsgram is an advertising network built on The Open Network (TON) for Telegram mini-apps. It allows developers to monetize user traffic by serving ads and receiving payouts in Toncoin, integrating directly with Telegram's Mini App ecosystem.
Origins and Team#
Adsgram was founded by Vadim Sterlin, the creator of Fanton GameBot, a football-themed mini-app that drew a sizable player base. After struggling to find reliable monetization options beyond one-off deals or direct user payments, Sterlin proposed a dedicated ad network for Telegram mini-apps. He secured a grant from TON Foundation to develop the platform, which launched on June 25, 2024. The team now numbers more than 20 members.
By February 2025, Adsgram reported substantial traction within Telegram's user base.
Ad Formats and Targeting#
The platform supports several ad types designed for mini-app environments:
- Rewarded video — 15-second clips that grant users in-app bonuses for watching.
- Banner — units embedded in the app layout.
- Interstitial — full-screen ads dismissible after five seconds.
Advertisers can target audiences by geography, device type, operating system version, language, and Telegram Premium status. Developers access a real-time dashboard to track impressions, conversions, and fill rates.
Payout Model#
Adsgram operates on a cost-per-thousand-impressions (CPM) model with region-dependent rates. Emerging-market traffic typically earns lower rates than North American or Western European traffic. All settlements are executed on TON Blockchain, with payouts arriving almost instantly.
Ecosystem Impact#
By early 2025, over 300 mini-apps had integrated Adsgram, including Gamee and Fanton Fantasy Football. Developers running apps with roughly 50,000 daily active users can generate an estimated 10–15 TON per day.
In January 2025, TON Foundation designated TON as the sole blockchain for Telegram mini-apps, reinforcing Adsgram's position within the ecosystem. To manage user experience, Adsgram later introduced a frequency cap on ad servings.
Partnerships with TON Foundation and TON Accelerator aim to expand integration support for additional mini-apps.
See also#
- Telegram Mini Apps
- The Open Network
- TON Foundation
- Telegram Ads
- Fanton
- Gamee