Monad, a blockchain project compatible with the Ethereum virtual machine, has launched the Monad Foundation.
This foundation will be an independent organization dedicated to supporting the growth and decentralization of the Monad protocol. The Monad Foundation will oversee key activities aimed at expanding the protocol’s ecosystem.
Its purpose includes facilitating validator-led governance, supporting community-led improvement proposals, and providing resources such as developer documentation. Additionally, the Foundation will engage in ecosystem development, marketing and consulting services to encourage adoption of the Monad blockchain.
There have been many rumors, but the creation of the foundation is sparking more speculation about an upcoming symbolic launch.
Validators are entities or individuals who secure blockchain networks by validating and recording transactions. The governance of decentralized blockchains often relies on validators, who make decisions regarding network upgrades or rule changes.
The Monad Foundation’s involvement aims to make these processes transparent and community-focused.
Foundation leaders include Keone Hon and Eunice Giarta. Several Monad Labs team members, particularly those working in business development, ecosystem growth, community engagement, marketing, and developer relations, will transition to the Monad Foundation.
Monad Labs will become Category Labs
As the Foundation takes on governance and ecosystem responsibilities, Monad Labs will continue to focus on software development and research for the Monad blockchain. Going forward, Monad Labs will operate under the new name Category Labs, with James Hunsaker as CEO, according to the company’s announcement.
By dividing responsibilities between the Foundation and Category Labs, Monad aims to create a structure that balances independent community involvement and technical development. The changes reflect a common trend in blockchain projects, where independent foundations manage governance and outreach, while separate entities manage major technological advancements.
Monad’s EVM compatibility allows developers to build applications on its blockchain using tools familiar from Ethereum (ETH). This feature should make the network accessible to a wide audience of developers. With the Foundation in place, Monad hopes to accelerate adoption and innovation in its ecosystem.