BERKELEY BLOCKCHAIN XCELERATOR REVEALS PROJECTS FOR 2020 COHORT
The future of blockchain innovation is looking brighter than ever, and the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator is playing a pivotal role in shaping it. Nodle Ma MaImagine a breeding ground where groundbreaking ideas meet unparalleled resources, all within the vibrant ecosystem of UC Berkeley. The Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator announced the selection of 17 startups for its third cohort, scheduled to take place in the spring of 2025. The accelerator is a joint venture between organizations on the California-based UC Berkeley campus.This is precisely what the Xcelerator offers. Blockchain at Berkeley is a university-based eco-system for blockchain. Search Crunchbase. Start Free Trial . Chrome Extension. Solutions. Products. Resources. Pricing.This spring, the Xcelerator proudly announced its Spring 2025 cohort, showcasing a diverse and talented group of startups ready to revolutionize industries ranging from gaming and fintech to IoT and healthcare. Ma the Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship Technology, Berkeley Engineering, the Berkeley Haas School of Business, and Blockchain at Berkeley, by via Google Alert - Cryptocurrency OR BlockchainThe program, a joint venture between the Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship & Technology, Berkeley Engineering, the Berkeley Haas School of Business, and Blockchain at Berkeley, is entering its third year and continues to solidify UC Berkeley's position as a global blockchain nexus. , The 2025 Cohort began with the opportunity to meet with leading innovators and venture capital firms in the Berkeley Blockchain ecosystem. Exposure to our network is a core tenet of the program and our startups can look forward to future introductions to expand their network. Ikhlaq Sidhu, Chief Scientist of SCET in Berkeley EngineeringWith a highly competitive selection process, only 17 startups were chosen from over 140 applicants, highlighting the program's prestige and the immense potential of the selected projects.Let's dive into the details of this exciting announcement and explore what these innovative teams are bringing to the blockchain landscape.
Announcing the Spring 2025 Blockchain Cohort
The Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator's Spring 2025 cohort represents a carefully curated selection of promising blockchain ventures. Host: Ashish Rajendra Sai @ Lero Irish Software Research Centre Horizon Globex, Jocelyn Weber @Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator. Abstract: Decentralization is one of the most loosely defined terms in the blockchain realm. The founders of some of Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator s distinguished start-ups and alumni share their perspectives on the debate surrounding the semantics ofThese startups benefit from access to a world-class network of advisors, mentors, and investors, accelerating their journey from concept to market-ready solutions. The Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator is a joint venture by three premier organizations on the UC Berkeley campus: Berkeley Engineering s Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship Technology, the Haas School of Business, and the Blockchain at Berkeley student group. Its purpose is to move new blockchain technologies and ventures forward, through leveraging the unparalleled resources at UCThis cohort is the third such group and is focused on supporting and empowering blockchain startups.
Building upon UC Berkeley's long-standing tradition of leadership in computer science, cryptography, and distributed ledger technology, the Xcelerator continues to be a driving force in the blockchain industry.The collaboration between Berkeley Engineering's Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship Technology (SCET), the Haas School of Business, and Blockchain at Berkeley creates a powerful synergy, providing startups with comprehensive support across technical, business, and legal aspects.
The Xcelerator aims to nurture innovative blockchain technologies and ventures by providing access to Berkeley’s resources. ,Abstract: DeFi (Decentralized Finance) is still facing novel threats and emerging security challenges as we move into 2025. The founders of some of Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator s distinguished start-ups and alumni share their perspectives on the recent Ethereum BZX flash loan hack: a reflection on the maturity, and the future, of DeFi.,Participants: Host: Victor FangThey are committed to inspiring, empowering, and assisting blockchain startups in reaching their full potential.
Selection Process: A Highly Competitive Landscape
Securing a spot in the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator is no easy feat. On October 1st, the Xcelerator wrapped up its 2025 Cohort (our third cohort) with a demo day! It was a fully virtual cohort, having to adapt to the times, and our 18 teams presented to anThe Spring 2025 cohort saw over 140 startups vying for a coveted position, with only 17 teams ultimately being selected. The Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator Announces Selection of the Spring 2025 Cohort Ma Berkeley continues to build momentum as a blockchain nexus with its third blockchain Xcelerator batch. Over 140 startups applied for a coveted spot in the Spring 2025 cohort, but only 18 were selected, representing a diversity of industries includingThis intensely competitive process speaks volumes about the Xcelerator's reputation and the perceived value of the program.
This demanding selection showcases both the great interest in blockchain technology as well as the commitment of the Xcelerator to maintain a high standard for program participants.
- High Application Volume: Over 140 startups applied for the Spring 2025 cohort.
- Low Acceptance Rate: Only 17-18 startups were selected for this cohort.
- Rigorous Evaluation: Each application undergoes a thorough evaluation process, assessing the team's capabilities, the project's potential impact, and its alignment with the Xcelerator's mission.
Diverse Industries Represented in the Cohort
One of the most exciting aspects of the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator is the diversity of industries represented by its participating startups. We are givers, not takers. We have a unique scholarly approach to venture deals and incubation. ABOUT US Who We Are Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator is the newest lab at the Center for Entrepreneurship in the School of Engineering. We launched to leverage the groundswell of blockchain activity on UC Berkeley s campus, and to invite global scholars and entrepreneursThe Spring 2025 cohort is no exception, showcasing projects tackling challenges and opportunities across a wide range of sectors.
This interdisciplinary approach fosters cross-pollination of ideas and encourages the development of innovative solutions that can be applied across multiple industries. Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator Reveals Projects for 2025 CohortBy bringing together startups from different backgrounds, the Xcelerator creates a dynamic and collaborative environment where groundbreaking ideas can flourish.
- Gaming: Blockchain-based gaming platforms and solutions.
- Fintech: Decentralized finance (DeFi) applications, payment solutions, and blockchain-based financial infrastructure.
- IoT: Blockchain-enabled Internet of Things (IoT) solutions for secure data management and device communication.
- Sports: Blockchain-based fan engagement platforms, digital collectibles, and ticketing solutions.
- Energy: Decentralized energy grids, carbon credit trading platforms, and blockchain-based energy management systems.
- Healthcare: Secure healthcare data management, supply chain tracking, and patient identity solutions.
Spotlight on Selected Projects
While a full list of the projects in the 2025 cohort is not fully public, a few projects were highlighted in Berkeley's initial announcements.These teams provide a glimpse into the exciting innovations coming out of the Xcelerator. Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator Reveals Projects for 2025 Cohort BlockchainNote: project lists can vary as the program progresses.
- Acala Network: A decentralized financial consortium focused on creating a cross-chain open infrastructure for the Polkadot ecosystem.
- Finoa: A regulated custodian for digital assets, providing institutional-grade security and compliance.
- Nodle.io: Building a decentralized IoT network that rewards users for contributing bandwidth.
Key Benefits of Participating in the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator
The Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator offers a comprehensive program designed to accelerate the growth and success of participating startups. Over 140 startups applied for a coveted spot in the Spring 2025 cohort, but only 18 were selected, representing a diversity of industries including gaming, fintech, IoT, sports, energy, and healthcare.The program combines mentorship, funding opportunities, and connections.
- Access to a World-Class Network: Startups gain access to a network of experienced mentors, advisors, investors, and industry experts from UC Berkeley and beyond.
- Mentorship and Guidance: Teams receive personalized mentorship and guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs and blockchain experts.
- Funding Opportunities: The Xcelerator provides access to funding opportunities through its network of investors and partners. Portfolio We accelerate 10 to 15 teams per cohort and accept applications from anywhere in the world. Coinvest in Our Teams Berkeley Xcelerator has truly delivered its promise to inspire, empower, and actually help blockchain startups to reach their potentials. Its network of friends is world-class, and opportunities to be part of some top-notchBerkeley also coinvests in teams to promote success.
- Educational Resources: Participants benefit from workshops, seminars, and other educational resources covering various aspects of blockchain technology, business strategy, and legal compliance.
- Community and Collaboration: The Xcelerator fosters a strong sense of community among participating startups, encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing.
- UC Berkeley Resources: Access to UC Berkeley's resources, including research labs, libraries, and student talent.
The Berkeley Blockchain Ecosystem: A Hub of Innovation
The Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator is just one piece of a larger and thriving blockchain ecosystem at UC Berkeley.The university has established itself as a leading center for blockchain research, education, and innovation, attracting top talent from around the world.
The Blockchain at Berkeley student group plays a crucial role in driving innovation through practical education, consulting for enterprise companies, open-source research, and the creation of new ideas through human-centered design.By empowering students to make an impact in the blockchain industry, Blockchain at Berkeley ensures a continuous pipeline of talent and innovation.
The University's commitment to fostering an open, inclusive, and collaborative environment has solidified its position as a global leader in blockchain technology. Congratulations to these 17 teams that have been selected for our Cohort Program of Spring 2025! Acala Network, ARterra, Blockstar, Blok-z, Calypso, Cowri, Finoa, GVOS.io, Linkdrop, LiquidThe Xcelerator is just one component in a larger blockchain ecosystem. A joint venture by organizations on the UC Berkeley campus has selected 17 startups for its third cohort. The Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator announced the selection of 17 startups for its third cohort, scheduled to take place in the spring of 2025. The accelerator is a joint venture between organizations on the California-based UC Berkeley campus. MoreUC Berkeley also provides courses and research opportunities for students.
The Impact of the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator: Past Successes
The Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator has a proven track record of success, with its alumni companies securing significant funding and making a real-world impact in the blockchain space.
With over 85 companies accelerated since its inception, the Xcelerator has helped these ventures raise a total of over $650 million in follow-on funding.This impressive figure highlights the program's effectiveness in nurturing promising blockchain startups and attracting investment.
The Xcelerator stands as one of the three key pillars of the Berkeley Research, Development, and Innovation (RDI) ecosystem. Over 140 startups applied for a coveted spot in the Spring 2025 cohort, but only 17 were selected; representing a diversity of industries including gaming, fintech, IoT, sports, energy, and healthcare.This further cements its critical role in the university's commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and entrepreneurship.
Adapting to the Times: A Virtual Approach
The 2025 Cohort had to adapt to meet the times. We re here to help. We commit to building an open, inclusive and unpretentious ecosystem. Frequently Asked Questions What is Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator? Expand UC Berkeley is the 1 public university in the world and has been a thought leader in computer science, cryptography, digital currencies and distributed ledger technology for over 30 years. We alsoThe program shifted into a fully virtual cohort.Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, the Xcelerator successfully adapted its program to a fully virtual format, ensuring that participating startups could continue to receive the support and resources they needed.
The virtual format allowed startups from around the world to participate in the program, further diversifying the cohort and fostering a global perspective.This adaptation demonstrates the Xcelerator's commitment to innovation and its ability to overcome challenges.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Blockchain Innovation
The Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator continues to be at the forefront of blockchain innovation, driving the development of new technologies and fostering the growth of promising startups. The Xcelerator launched in January 2025 as a joint venture between Berkeley s Haas School of Business, SCET of Berkeley Engineering, and Blockchain at Berkeley. Since then the Xcelerator has accelerated 85 companies that have raised a total of $650M in follow-on funding and has now become the 3rd pillar of Berkeley RDI, fulfilling RDI'sAs the blockchain industry evolves, the Xcelerator will continue to play a vital role in shaping its future.
By providing a supportive and collaborative environment, the Xcelerator empowers entrepreneurs to push the boundaries of what's possible and create solutions that can address some of the world's most pressing challenges.
The Spring 2025 cohort is a testament to the Xcelerator's ongoing commitment to excellence and its ability to identify and nurture the next generation of blockchain leaders. The premier university blockchain accelerator - with 65 alumni teams securing over $400M in follow-on funding - UC Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator announce new cohortKeep an eye on these startups as they embark on their journey to transform industries and revolutionize the way we interact with technology.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator
What is the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator?
The Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator is a joint venture between Berkeley Engineering's Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship Technology (SCET), the Haas School of Business, and Blockchain at Berkeley. Blockchain at Berkeley drives innovation in the blockchain industry by building an ecosystem that empowers students to make an impact through practical education, consulting for enterprise companies, conducting open source research, and creating new ideas through human-centered design.Its mission is to accelerate the growth of blockchain startups by providing them with access to mentorship, funding opportunities, educational resources, and a supportive community.
Who can apply to the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator?
The Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator accepts applications from startups worldwide. The Xcelerator Demo Day for Cohort 6 took place on Sunday, August 27, at 5:00pm, following the Future of Decentralization, AI, and Computing Summit hosted by Berkeley RDI Please see the link below to view the livestream recording for all teams. To view individual team recordings and decks, please scroll down to the tile for each team below.They are looking for teams with innovative blockchain solutions that have the potential to disrupt industries and create a positive impact.
What are the key benefits of participating in the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator?
Participating in the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator offers numerous benefits, including access to a world-class network of mentors, advisors, and investors; personalized mentorship and guidance; funding opportunities; educational resources; and a supportive community.
How does the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator contribute to the blockchain ecosystem?
The Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator plays a vital role in the blockchain ecosystem by fostering innovation, nurturing talent, and connecting startups with the resources they need to succeed. 41K subscribers in the dot community. Welcome to the community led Polkadot subreddit! Polkadot is a platform that allows diverse blockchains toIt also contributes to UC Berkeley's reputation as a leading center for blockchain research and education.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways from the 2025 Cohort Announcement
The announcement of the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator's 2025 cohort underscores the program's significance in shaping the future of blockchain technology. Building further on UC Berkeley s reputation as the premier blockchain university in the United States now with 100 alumni teams securing $620M in follow-on funding the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator is proud to announce its next cohort for 2025 cohort 7! The program received 100 applications for 10 available spots, making thisWith a highly competitive selection process and a diverse range of participating startups, the Xcelerator continues to be a driving force in the industry.
By providing access to unparalleled resources, mentorship, and a supportive community, the Xcelerator empowers entrepreneurs to push the boundaries of what's possible and create solutions that can address some of the world's most pressing challenges. The Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator has announced its third cohort of startups, including four projects from the Polkadot ecosystem. Acala, Finoa, Nodle.io and Stake Technologies will join 14 otherThe collaboration between Berkeley Engineering's Sutardja Center for Entrepreneurship Technology, the Haas School of Business, and Blockchain at Berkeley creates a unique and powerful ecosystem that fosters innovation and accelerates the growth of promising blockchain ventures.
As the blockchain industry continues to evolve, the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator will undoubtedly remain at the forefront, shaping its future and driving the development of transformative technologies. Projects announced by the Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator include: Alcala: A decentralized financial consortium that seeks to create a cross-chain open infrastructure for the Polkadot ecosystem.Keep an eye on the startups from the 2025 cohort as they embark on their journey to revolutionize industries and make a lasting impact on the world.To learn more about the program, follow their social media channels and visit the official website to learn how to apply for future cohorts.
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