YZi Labs is emerging as a transformative force at the intersection of Web3, artificial intelligence (AI), and biotechnology. As a forward-thinking incubator and investment firm, YZi Labs is dedicated to empowering visionary founders who are building solutions that address real-world challenges with long-term impact. With strategic investments, hands-on incubation programs, and a team of seasoned experts, YZi Labs is shaping the next generation of technological breakthroughs.
Strategic Investments Driving Next-Gen Innovation
YZi Labs has made a series of high-impact investments in cutting-edge startups that are redefining industries across the digital and biological landscapes. These investments reflect a clear focus on Web3 infrastructure, decentralized finance (DeFi), AI-driven solutions, and biotech innovation—key pillars in the future of technology.
One notable investment is in Avalon Labs, an on-chain capital market designed to unlock Bitcoin’s full economic potential. By creating a scalable, transparent, and accessible financial network, Avalon Labs is pioneering Bitcoin-powered finance that goes beyond speculation to enable real-world utility. YZi Labs’ support underscores its commitment to projects that can transform entire industries.
👉 Discover how next-gen financial protocols are reshaping digital asset ecosystems.
Another major move includes backing Blueprint Finance, a multichain DeFi platform advancing liquidity solutions across blockchains. With features like portable margin accounts, automated yield vaults, and enhanced staking markets, Blueprint Finance is laying the groundwork for institutional-grade DeFi adoption. YZi Labs’ investment accelerates the development of robust, interoperable financial infrastructure.
In the realm of decentralized entertainment, YZi Labs invested in MEET48, a DeSoc (Decentralized Social) platform born from BNB’s MVB Accelerator. MEET48 is revolutionizing fan engagement by integrating token-driven economies into the idol industry. Through virtual performances, management games, and real-world events, it empowers fans to become active participants in the creative process.
Advancing Crypto Security with OneKey
Security remains a critical barrier to mainstream Web3 adoption. To address this, YZi Labs invested in OneKey, an open-source hardware wallet that provides affordable, secure self-custody solutions for both retail and institutional users. Known for its craftsmanship and global reach—from Asia to Europe and South America—OneKey exemplifies the kind of user-first innovation YZi Labs champions.
This investment aligns with YZi Labs’ mission to create safer on-ramps into the Web3 world. By supporting gateway technologies that simplify asset management without compromising security, YZi Labs helps lower entry barriers for millions of new users.
Expanding Leadership in AI and Biotech
YZi Labs is not only investing in technology—it’s building the team behind the vision. The appointment of Jing Xiong as Investment Director marks a significant step in strengthening its AI and emerging tech capabilities. With a Ph.D. from Stanford and extensive experience at Google working on projects like Lens and Gemini, Jing brings deep technical expertise to drive AI innovation within the portfolio.
Similarly, Jane He joined as General Partner to lead biotech investments and incubation efforts. Her background in science and venture capital positions her to identify high-potential biotech startups tackling pressing healthcare challenges. Under her leadership, YZi Labs is expanding beyond Web3 into life sciences, aiming to advance people-centered solutions in biotechnology and medicine.
"We began by talking about science, but the conversation quickly turned to people – the patients who fall through the cracks, the families waiting for answers."
— Jane He, General Partner, YZi Labs
This human-centric philosophy defines YZi Labs’ approach: technology should serve humanity first.
EASY Residency: A Global Incubation Program for Visionary Founders
Recognizing that funding alone isn’t enough, YZi Labs launched EASY Residency, a 10-week in-person incubation program for early-stage founders in Web3, AI, and biotech. Designed for the top 1% of innovators, the program offers mentorship, resources, and community support to help founders focus on building without distractions.
Led by Cathy Dou, Incubation Operations Lead, EASY Residency kicks off in New York City and will expand globally. The program emphasizes deep work, founder wellness, and strategic growth—acknowledging that the journey of building transformative companies is rarely easy.
Founders accepted into EASY Residency gain access to YZi Labs’ network of experts, investors, and technical advisors. The immersive experience fosters collaboration across disciplines, encouraging cross-pollination between AI, blockchain, and life sciences.
👉 See what it takes to build a breakthrough startup in today’s fast-evolving tech landscape.
Fostering Innovation Through Global Hackathons
To further fuel grassroots innovation, YZi Labs launched a series of global hackathons focused on AI and blockchain-powered fintech solutions. In partnership with AGI House and DoraHacks, these events bring together developers, entrepreneurs, and creators to prototype next-generation applications.
The hackathon series includes:
- An in-person event in Silicon Valley to spark collaboration among elite builders
- A virtual extension hosted by DoraHacks, enabling global participation
- Networking opportunities like the BUIDLer Breakfast to connect founders with mentors and investors
These initiatives reflect YZi Labs’ belief that innovation thrives in open, collaborative environments where diverse minds come together to solve complex problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What types of startups does YZi Labs invest in?
A: YZi Labs focuses on early-stage startups in Web3, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and decentralized finance. They prioritize teams with bold visions, technical depth, and a commitment to long-term impact.
Q: How does EASY Residency differ from other incubators?
A: Unlike traditional accelerators, EASY Residency is an in-person, founder-centric program that emphasizes focus, well-being, and deep mentorship. It’s designed for the top 1% of innovators working on transformative technologies.
Q: Is YZi Labs only focused on blockchain projects?
A: No. While Web3 is a core pillar, YZi Labs has expanded into AI and biotech following its rebrand. The firm seeks convergence across these fields to drive multidisciplinary innovation.
Q: Can international founders apply to EASY Residency?
A: Yes. EASY Residency is a global program welcoming exceptional founders from around the world. The first cohort launches in New York City with plans for international expansion.
Q: What role does tokenization play in YZi Labs’ portfolio companies?
A: Token-driven models are used strategically—especially in DeSoc and DeFi projects—to align incentives, enable community ownership, and enhance user engagement.
Q: How can developers get involved with YZi Labs’ ecosystem?
A: Developers can participate in hackathons, contribute to open-source projects like OneKey, or apply to residency programs. Staying engaged through community channels also opens doors to collaboration.
YZi Labs continues to build a future where technology serves people—not the other way around. By combining strategic investment with hands-on incubation and world-class talent, it’s creating an ecosystem where breakthrough ideas can thrive.
👉 Explore how leading innovators are shaping the future of finance and technology.