CertiK, a leading Web3 security service provider, has partnered with YZi Labs to enhance security measures for startups in the EASY Residency Incubation Program. Announced on January 6, 2026, this initiative represents a $1 million grant dedicated to auditing services for these startups. The collaboration aims to support the long-term development of early-stage companies in Web3, artificial intelligence (AI), and biotechnology by offering security infrastructure through formal verification, Skynet Boosting, and AI scanning services.
EASY Residency, managed by YZi Labs, is a global initiative designed to aid startups that focus on creating lasting value in the emerging tech sectors of Web3, AI, and biotech. By facilitating connections with CertiK, YZi Labs intends to help these startups better understand and integrate advanced security solutions into their developmental processes.
Ella Zhang, who leads YZi Labs, highlighted the importance of security in ensuring the success of new ventures. She likened the role of CertiK to that of structural engineers in a skyscraper project, emphasizing that while founders focus on innovation, CertiK ensures the robustness of their security frameworks. Ronghui Gu, Co-Founder and CEO of CertiK, expressed confidence that this partnership would significantly enhance the security posture of participating projects and contribute to the sustainable growth of the Web3 ecosystem.
This collaboration signifies a shift in the startup landscape from prioritizing rapid growth to emphasizing security and reliability. The partnership between CertiK and YZi Labs marks a pivotal move towards establishing a security-first framework in the incubation phase of tech startups, potentially setting a new standard within the blockchain industry.
CertiK, established in 2017 by scholars from Yale and Columbia Universities, is renowned for its expertise in blockchain security. The company has implemented formal verification technologies to secure and monitor blockchain protocols and smart contracts. With over 5,000 enterprise clients, CertiK has safeguarded digital assets worth approximately $600 billion and identified more than 180,000 vulnerabilities in blockchain systems. The company’s impressive client roster includes prominent projects such as Aptos, Ripple, Sandbox, Polygon, BNB Chain, and TON.
As a major player in blockchain security, CertiK has attracted investments from top-tier funds, achieving a valuation exceeding $2 billion. This speaks to its position as a trusted entity in the industry. Investors include Sequoia, Coatue, Goldman Sachs, Shunwei Capital, and Insight Partners.
Meanwhile, YZi Labs, founded in 2017 and led by Ella Zhang, operates as a global investment entity supporting long-term innovation in Web3, AI, and biotech sectors. With a portfolio that includes over 300 projects across more than 25 countries, YZi Labs has facilitated the growth of numerous startups. Their incubation programs have seen over 65 teams graduate, benefiting from the strategic support and resources provided by YZi Labs.
The partnership between CertiK and YZi Labs underscores a broader industry trend towards integrating robust security measures at the foundational stages of tech development. This proactive approach aims to mitigate risks and foster sustainable growth, ensuring that startups are well-equipped to meet market demands and regulatory requirements.
Regulatory considerations often focus on ensuring the integrity and transparency of financial markets, with particular attention to custody, market integrity, and investor protection. These elements are crucial for maintaining investor trust and fostering a stable market environment. In this context, the CertiK-YZi collaboration aligns with broader regulatory goals by prioritizing security and transparency for the startups involved.
Institutional interest in cryptocurrencies and related technologies continues to grow, driven by client demand and the potential for new revenue streams. Large financial institutions and asset managers are increasingly exploring crypto products as a means to diversify offerings and adapt to evolving market landscapes.
The competitive landscape for blockchain and Web3 technologies is characterized by multiple entities often filing for similar products and services, leading to a dynamic environment where timelines and product features frequently evolve. This necessitates continuous adaptation and innovation from companies operating within this space.
As the partnership progresses, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the implementation and impact of the provided security services, assessing their effectiveness in enhancing project resilience. Future developments may include additional amendments or expansions to the program, reflecting the ongoing commitment to advancing security standards in the industry.
Overall, the CertiK and YZi Labs collaboration represents a significant milestone in the realm of tech incubation, offering a model for integrating security considerations into the early development stages of startups. This strategic focus on security is anticipated to influence the broader blockchain and Web3 sectors, encouraging a shift towards more secure and sustainable practices.
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