Pump.fun Launch Guide 2026
The complete step-by-step tutorial for launching meme coins on Pump.fun. Master bonding curves, optimize your launch, and build a thriving community.
What is Pump.fun?
Pump.fun is the most popular meme coin launchpad on Solana, revolutionizing how tokens are created and traded. Launched in early 2024, it has become the go-to platform for creators looking to launch meme coins without any coding knowledge.
The platform uses an innovative bonding curve mechanism for price discovery, eliminating the need for traditional liquidity pools at launch. This means anyone can create a token for just a few dollars and immediately start trading.
Key Features of Pump.fun
- No-code token creation - Launch in under 5 minutes
- Automatic Raydium migration at $69k market cap
- Built-in bonding curve for fair price discovery
- Live streaming capabilities for community building
- Social features including comments and reactions
Understanding Bonding Curves
A bonding curve is a mathematical formula that determines the price of a token based on its current supply. Think of it as an automated market maker that doesn't require traditional liquidity pools.
How Pump.fun's Bonding Curve Works
Token Launch
Price Increases with Buys
Price Decreases with Sells
Raydium Migration
Pro Tip: The bonding curve ensures that early supporters get better prices, but also means that if the token doesn't reach the migration threshold, liquidity remains on Pump.fun only. Plan your launch strategy accordingly!
Step-by-Step Launch Tutorial
Prepare Your Wallet
Download and set up Phantom Wallet or Solflare. Fund it with at least 0.1 SOL for token creation and initial trading.
- Create a fresh wallet specifically for your token
- Never use your primary holding wallet
- Secure your seed phrase offline
Create Your Token Identity
Launch on Pump.fun
Visit pump.fun and connect your wallet:
- Click "Start a new coin"
- Upload your logo (512x512 PNG)
- Enter token name and ticker
- Add description
- Optional: Add social links
- Click "Create coin" and approve transaction (~0.02 SOL)
Initial Buy & Community Building
Immediately after launch:
- Buy some of your own token to show commitment
- Start the live stream feature on Pump.fun
- Post about your launch on Twitter/X
- Engage with every comment and reaction
- Share your token's Pump.fun link everywhere
Reach Raydium Migration
Your goal: $69,000 market cap
- Keep the momentum going with consistent marketing
- Encourage community members to buy and hold
- At $69k, the token automatically migrates to Raydium
- Liquidity is locked forever on Raydium
- Your token becomes available on Jupiter aggregator
Launch Best Practices
Do This
- ✓ Use a fresh wallet for the launch
- ✓ Create original, memorable branding
- ✓ Buy some of your own token
- ✓ Enable and use live streaming
- ✓ Respond to every comment
- ✓ Build Telegram community first
- ✓ Lock liquidity (automatic on Pump.fun)
- ✓ Be transparent about your goals
Avoid This
- ✗ Using copyrighted images
- ✗ Promising guaranteed returns
- ✗ Creating multiple tokens simultaneously
- ✗ Ignoring your community
- ✗ Abandoning the project quickly
- ✗ Misleading about tokenomics
- ✗ Copying existing successful tokens
- ✗ Using bots to fake activity
Post-Launch Marketing Strategies
Launching is just the beginning. Here's how to grow your token after it hits the market:
Community Building (Days 1-7)
- • Create a Telegram group and invite early buyers
- • Set up Twitter/X with consistent posting schedule
- • Host regular AMA sessions on Pump.fun live stream
- • Create memes and encourage community submissions
- • Reward active community members with recognition
Growth Strategies (Week 2-4)
- • Apply for CoinGecko and CoinMarketCap listings
- • Reach out to micro-influencers (1k-50k followers)
- • Create TikTok content about your token's story
- • Cross-promote with other meme coin communities
- • Submit to token tracking sites like DexScreener
Sustained Engagement (Month 2+)
- • Host contests and giveaways (meme contests work great)
- • Develop a simple roadmap with achievable milestones
- • Consider creating NFTs or merchandise for holders
- • Partner with other projects for mutual growth
- • Keep the meme game strong - stay culturally relevant
Risks & Considerations
Important Disclaimers
- • Most meme coins fail: Over 95% never reach Raydium migration
- • High volatility: Prices can drop 90%+ in minutes
- • Regulatory uncertainty: Laws around token creation vary by jurisdiction
- • Rug pull risks: While Pump.fun locks liquidity, trust is still crucial
- • Time commitment: Successful launches require daily engagement
Legal Notice
This guide is for educational purposes only. Creating and promoting tokens may have legal implications in your jurisdiction. Never promise financial returns, avoid misleading marketing, and consult with a legal professional if your project gains significant traction. Meme coins are highly speculative and most lose value rapidly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to launch on Pump.fun?
Approximately 0.02 SOL (around $3-5 USD) to create the token. You'll also need SOL for transaction fees and potentially buying some of your own token to start.
What happens when my token reaches $69k market cap?
The token automatically migrates to Raydium DEX. The bonding curve completes, approximately $12k of liquidity is locked forever, and your token becomes tradeable on Jupiter and other aggregators.
Can I launch multiple tokens?
Technically yes, but it's not recommended. Focus on one project and build it properly. Launching multiple tokens can dilute your credibility and community trust.
How long does it take to reach Raydium?
It varies dramatically. Some tokens reach it in hours with viral momentum, others never reach it. Success depends on your marketing, community building, and a bit of luck with timing and trends.
Is Pump.fun safe from rugs?
Pump.fun eliminates the technical ability to rug pull liquidity (it's locked upon Raydium migration), but creators can still sell their tokens. Always research the team and their behavior before investing.