List of the Top Layer 1 Protocols for Nonprofit in 2025 - Page 4

As traditional institutions confront increasing pressures from the transformative potential of blockchain technology, only truly decentralized cryptocurrencies are likely to survive the test of time. In response to contract censorship seen on its Ethereum counterpart, Ethereum Classic has shown remarkable perseverance, effectively maintaining the original vision of Ethereum as a platform for unstoppable applications. By integrating the innovative features of ETH with the core tenets of BTC, ETC is strategically positioned to become the leading Smart Contract Platform of the future, especially as other networks risk succumbing to external influences. We encourage you to delve into the rich history, ongoing developments, and bright future of Ethereum Classic, examining its fundamental principles, distinctive value proposition, and dynamic community to fully understand Classic's importance in the shifting landscape of blockchain technology. This exploration will not only reveal the unique contributions of Classic but also emphasize its crucial role in the rapidly evolving digital economy, showcasing why it remains a beacon of hope for true decentralization.

DigiByte goes beyond being just a fast digital currency; it stands as an innovative blockchain platform designed for various applications such as digital assets, smart contracts, decentralized applications, and secure authentication. Its unique architecture comprises three advanced layers that create a strong network infrastructure, enhance security measures, and improve communication, all while maintaining remarkable speeds. The top layer operates much like an app marketplace, offering practical real-world applications. Through the DigiAssets protocol, users can create a wide range of digital assets directly on the DigiByte blockchain, showcasing its versatility. The middle layer plays a crucial role in governance and security, safeguarding Digital Bytes from counterfeiting, duplication, or hacking. Additionally, DigiByte features a tamper-proof public ledger that carefully records every transaction involving DigiBytes, ensuring transparency and trust. With five proof-of-work algorithms, DigiByte fortifies its security, and new DigiBytes can only be introduced via mining, reinforcing its status as a decentralized currency. This comprehensive framework not only establishes DigiByte as a flexible platform but also positions it as a formidable player in the rapidly changing digital currency arena, paving the way for future innovations and applications.

Lisk acts as a versatile platform for blockchain applications, striving to democratize access to this groundbreaking technology so that it benefits a broad audience. We promote the creation of blockchain applications that follow the Lisk protocol, simplifying the development process by allowing everything to be coded in JavaScript and TypeScript, thus avoiding the necessity for new programming languages. The modular architecture of the Lisk SDK supports the development of a wide array of blockchain technology applications. We actively seek out entrepreneurs and developers who are enthusiastic about crafting innovative blockchain solutions utilizing the Lisk SDK. By collaborating with us, you could obtain a grant of 60,000 CHF, which can significantly contribute to enhancing our ecosystem with groundbreaking blockchain projects. Lisk Desktop serves as an all-in-one solution for managing your Lisk account, making token transactions, and participating in delegate voting, effectively merging the functionalities of a cryptocurrency wallet with those of a blockchain explorer. Simultaneously, Lisk Mobile provides a convenient and portable option for users, allowing them to oversee their blockchain activities seamlessly while on the go. With both Lisk Desktop and Lisk Mobile, users can engage deeply with the blockchain ecosystem at their convenience, ensuring they never miss an opportunity to connect and interact.

Nano was created to function effectively without the dependence on mining, a method that requires a substantial amount of energy for processing transactions. Rather than using mining, it incorporates a revolutionary voting system that completely removes this requirement. When users choose to transact with nano, they can guarantee that the full amount of value goes directly to the recipient, akin to cash transactions. This digital currency was intentionally crafted to enhance the ease of transactions on both local and global scales, facilitating international money transfers without any associated fees. The distinctive workings of the nano network allow it to consume significantly less energy compared to traditional cryptocurrencies, making it an environmentally friendly and sustainable option that supports a greener planet. Furthermore, the efficient design of nano transactions not only promotes financial accessibility but also ensures that users all around the globe can participate in the modern economy without barriers. As a result, nano stands out as a forward-thinking solution that aligns with the growing demand for sustainable financial technologies.

Horizen is built on a secure and resilient public infrastructure that features multiple layers of protection. Its distributed node architecture ensures that the network remains scalable, dependable, and performs swiftly while maintaining high security. To bolster defenses against potential 51% attacks, Horizen employs an advanced consensus mechanism. The groundbreaking cross-chain protocol, Zendoo, empowers developers to design blockchains and applications tailored to solve pressing real-world issues, while also being adaptable for future advancements. The foundation of this system is the Horizen blockchain, which leverages a robust proof-of-work (PoW) public blockchain and is backed by the largest distributed node network, providing exceptional reliability and strength. Moreover, the zero-knowledge enabled cross-chain functionality not only supports auditable transactions but also safeguards user privacy, effectively addressing a critical barrier to the mainstream adoption of blockchain technology. This multifaceted strategy positions Horizen as a leading entity in the blockchain sector, making it an essential contributor to the industry's future progress. Consequently, Horizen's innovative approach paves the way for enhancing user trust and engagement within the blockchain ecosystem.

Edgeware stands out as a cutting-edge platform tailored for the next generation of decentralized applications. It provides Ethereum developers with the ability to deploy Solidity/EVM smart contracts with little modification, while also offering newcomers a smooth entry point through Rust and WebAssembly. Furthermore, builders and organizers can join various collectives that benefit from the on-chain treasury, promoting network expansion and the development of innovative ideas. Governance over the treasury and the blockchain is overseen by a varied group of stakeholders formed during the lockdrop, a notable Ethereum token generation event that took place in 2018. Users on Edgeware enjoy ownership of their identities, control over their data, and the freedom to participate in the community either publicly or anonymously. As users engage, they can cultivate a reputation reflecting their diverse achievements, which enhances their profiles and showcases their contributions to the community. This emphasis on reputation not only drives user involvement but also nurtures collaboration among members, ultimately enriching the experience within the Edgeware ecosystem. Moreover, the platform's commitment to decentralization empowers individuals to actively shape the future of the network as they contribute their skills and insights.

Presenting the inaugural interoperable Layer 1 blockchain purposefully crafted for NFTs, it includes a community-owned NFT launchpad and marketplace that operates without gas fees and maintains carbon neutrality through its proof-of-stake model, safeguarded by a network of more than 100 validators. This groundbreaking platform utilizes CosmWasm for enhanced programmability and fosters interoperability via Cosmos IBC, along with connectivity to Ethereum through the Gravity Bridge. To kickstart your minting endeavor, you can take advantage of a comprehensive set of command-line tools; just clone an example repository and replace it with your own project’s resources. The Stargaze sg721 contract supports off-chain metadata storage, and it is recommended to use a decentralized storage solution such as IPFS to optimize efficiency. The NFT metadata within Stargaze conforms to OpenSea’s specifications, which facilitates smooth integration. Arrange your images and metadata into specific directories, and then compile them into one IPFS CAR (Content Addressable aRchive) file for uploading. After obtaining the CID for your metadata, you can set it as the base URL in your contract, which enables the contract to link each token ID to its distinct token URI autonomously, thereby significantly streamlining the overall process. This cutting-edge framework not only improves the user experience but also advocates for sustainable methods within the NFT ecosystem, making it a pioneering solution in the industry. As the NFT landscape continues to evolve, its community-driven approach ensures that the platform remains adaptable and forward-thinking.

To initiate your journey into decentralized finance (DeFi) with a focus on staking, interest rates, and cross-chain solutions, Umee stands out as an ideal platform; it is a layer one blockchain engineered for efficient communication and interoperability, created with the Cosmos SDK and bolstered by Tendermint Consensus alongside a self-governing validator network. The platform promotes seamless interoperability through mechanisms such as the Inter-Blockchain Communication protocol (IBC) and the Gravity bridge, operating within a decentralized framework aimed at establishing a robust cross-chain DeFi hub that enriches the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Umee's architecture prioritizes the integration of "money legos," which connect diverse crypto markets across multiple networks, thereby promoting the evolution of open finance innovations like multi-chain staking, interchain leverage, and cross-chain interest rates. As a foundational blockchain, Umee delivers the essential infrastructure required for constructing applications and money lego components that leverage cross-chain liquidity, consequently laying the groundwork for a more cohesive DeFi environment. By leveraging the capabilities of Umee, users gain access to a wide array of decentralized financial opportunities that were once difficult to navigate, empowering them to capitalize on the full potential of the DeFi space. This robust platform not only enhances user experience but also supports the broader vision of a decentralized financial future.

The TON blockchain, a decentralized layer-1 infrastructure developed by Telegram, aims to support billions of users while providing exceptionally rapid transaction processing, low fees, and intuitive applications, all within an environmentally conscious framework. Its architecture is both scalable and shareable, ensuring continuous expansion without compromising on performance. TON fulfills various roles, such as processing transaction fees, securing the network via staking, influencing development, and facilitating payment transactions. What distinguishes it from other layer-1 blockchains are its unique attributes, primarily based on the actor model, which allows smart contracts to handle a single message, change their state, or dispatch multiple messages concurrently within specified time limits. This design facilitates the growth of both the blockchain and its individual contracts to support an unlimited number of users and transactions. Additionally, the TON Virtual Machine (TVM) serves as a powerful, deterministic stack-based virtual machine that optimizes the platform's functionality and efficiency. By pioneering such innovative features, TON is positioned to significantly impact the blockchain industry, paving the way for future advancements in decentralized technology.

Everscale's architecture demonstrates that the combination of software algorithms with blockchain technology removes software limitations on performance, leading to an increase in transaction throughput that corresponds with network bandwidth. As a result, Everscale successfully embodies the three fundamental principles of blockchain: scalability, security, and decentralization. In our work at Everscale, we are validating the significance of research in distributed systems as it applies to blockchain technology. Interestingly, this can be achieved using a technique that has been incorporated in Bitcoin since its inception, which allows transactions to be scheduled based on block height instead of relying on traditional timestamps. For optimal network efficiency, it is vital to employ reliable servers with high-speed internet capabilities. Furthermore, attaining true decentralization requires that these servers be owned by a varied array of individuals or entities. This commitment to both performance and decentralization illustrates a thoughtful strategy for developing strong blockchain solutions, ensuring that Everscale remains at the forefront of innovation in the industry. By prioritizing these aspects, we aim to create a resilient and efficient blockchain ecosystem that can adapt to the evolving demands of the digital landscape.

Aptos Labs focuses on developing a Layer 1 blockchain that is designed to be user-friendly for everyone. Users can create a wide array of applications on the Aptos Blockchain, participate in node operations, and immerse themselves in the swiftly expanding Aptos community. When a user initiates a transaction on this blockchain, they are effectively requesting an update to the ledger state that incorporates the specifics of their transaction. You are empowered to generate, submit, and validate transactions on the Aptos Blockchain, starting with crafting your very first Move Module specifically for the Aptos ecosystem, and moving on to deploy your inaugural coin on the network. Furthermore, you have the opportunity to learn how to build your first decentralized application (dapp). Each account within the Aptos network is assigned a unique account address that corresponds to a set of public and private keys owned by the account holder, alongside an associated authentication key. To facilitate interactions with the blockchain, Aptos provides a REST API that allows users to smoothly scan transactions and accounts across the network. You can also access comprehensive ledger information from the FullNode, which contains detailed account data and the resources linked to those accounts. By engaging with the Aptos ecosystem, you not only sharpen your technical skills but also forge connections with a dynamic community of developers who share your interests and aspirations. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and encourages continuous learning among its members.

Inery represents a next-generation layer-1 blockchain focused on transforming the management of decentralized databases and creating a novel paradigm for data interaction. By establishing links among diverse systems, applications, and additional layer-1 networks, it lays the groundwork for the web3 ecosystem to thrive. The Inery data management solution, referred to as IneryDB, integrates the advantages of blockchain with the functionalities of distributed database management. Functioning on a decentralized architecture, IneryDB is optimized for processing high transaction volumes, ensuring low latency, and executing intricate query searches, all while empowering users to retain control of their data assets. This groundbreaking platform enables developers and enterprises to securely store, manage, access, and disseminate data in a decentralized fashion across various industries. Inery's blockchain not only boosts data sharing efficiency and security but also establishes the foundational infrastructure necessary for launching decentralized applications, facilitating smooth cross-chain interactions in the process. Consequently, Inery is paving the way for a more integrated and decentralized digital ecosystem, fostering innovation and collaboration in data management practices. As a result, the platform stands to significantly impact how organizations approach their data strategies and technological deployments.

The Root Network goes beyond being a simple blockchain by ensuring a seamless user experience while facilitating asset interoperability throughout the vast open metaverse. It acts as an essential foundation for maintaining ledger integrity, transaction validation, and smart contract execution, with its Layer 1 blockchain meticulously designed to offer a smooth experience for diverse metaverse applications. By incorporating scalable Layer 2 technology, the network is well-prepared for continuous growth and success in an ever-changing environment. With a "network of networks" framework, The Root Network leverages the strong security features inherent in our Layer 1 blockchain. Users have the ability to generate versatile digital assets and tokens, which can be exchanged and utilized across a wide array of applications, experiences, and locations in the open metaverse. This flexibility not only amplifies user engagement but also stimulates creativity and innovation within the digital landscape. Ultimately, The Root Network positions itself as a pioneering force in shaping the future of interconnected virtual experiences.

Wire features an extensive array of developers, a simple registration process, and specialized resources to enhance business efficiency. It facilitates fluid interactions across different chains without the necessity for bridges. The network's capability is remarkable, handling as many as 112,000 transactions per second, with incredibly quick block times of just 500 milliseconds. Its growth strategy is intricately linked to user engagement, enabling substantial scalability alongside the expansion of the internet. As a public blockchain, Wire is founded on open-source ideals and is governed by its community members. It utilizes a state-of-the-art Appointed Proof of Stake (APoS) consensus mechanism, representing a significant evolution from traditional Delegated Proof of Stake systems. Furthermore, it incorporates the Universal Polymorphic Address Protocol (UPAP), which, when combined with name service smart contracts across multiple layer-1 blockchains, greatly enhances interoperability akin to the role HTTP played in standardizing internet communication. Wire Network embodies a revolutionary shift in blockchain innovation, integrating partition-resistant networking, serverless computing, and distributed storage within a framework that operates without trust. With its forward-thinking methods, Wire aspires to transform the landscape of decentralized applications and services for years to come. The vision of Wire extends beyond mere technology; it aims to create a more interconnected and efficient digital ecosystem.

The evolving realm of operating systems that integrate Web3 and AI is poised to transform the industry, leveraging cutting-edge cyber security strategies and quantum-resistant innovations to deliver sustainable and economical solutions for the future. Our organization is leading this charge, dedicated to developing a resilient cyber-chain that will underpin our operating system, designed to promote a decentralized and secure work environment. Each individual will be recognized through a distinct and unalterable node across multiple applications, significantly improving both security and user interaction. By employing the latest advancements in AI and Web3 technologies, we aim to guarantee transparency, safety, and customized experiences for every user. Our ambition is to provide an advanced collection of decentralized operating systems, applications, and programs that will progressively supplant traditional operating systems and their related software. As we move forward, we foresee a world where technology not only fulfills user requirements but also adheres to ideals of sustainability and security, ultimately redefining how we interact with digital environments. This transformation is not just about technology; it's about creating a more equitable and secure digital future for everyone involved.

Bitgert is a forward-thinking cryptocurrency engineering company dedicated to reshaping the way people interact with digital assets. Through the introduction of multiple projects, Bitgert has created a comprehensive ecosystem that caters to every aspect of digital asset ownership. The Bitgert Chain is particularly impressive, capable of processing over 100,000 transactions per second, while the centralized Bitgert crypto exchange offers a no-fee trading platform that enhances user experience. With such a wide array of services, Bitgert has emerged as one of the fastest-growing ecosystems in the cryptocurrency industry, providing a variety of solutions that meet the needs of today’s digital asset investors. Importantly, the Bitgert Chain stands out with its low transaction fees, making it an appealing choice for users. Furthermore, this ecosystem is designed to foster the development of your project, supported by a passionate community and skilled development teams, which means that you will have access to the necessary resources for achieving your goals. As Bitgert continues to evolve, it remains committed to innovation and user satisfaction in the digital asset space.

Canto functions as a permissionless, versatile blockchain that utilizes the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) to realize the ideals of decentralized finance (DeFi), which aspires to create a financial system that is open, clear, and free from centralized authority. Its goal is to establish a publicly available infrastructure where crucial DeFi elements will not be governed by sovereign tokens and will be structured to avoid generating profits for any individual entity in the future. Additionally, Canto consciously avoids creating user ownership that relies on specific interfaces, as its decentralized exchanges (DEXes) do not offer swapping interfaces, thus requiring users to engage in trading through external aggregators. This strategic approach is designed to streamline the onboarding of new protocols into the ecosystem. By doing so, Canto not only fosters innovation but also invites a diverse range of projects to participate. Ultimately, Canto embodies a community of DeFi advocates committed to promoting a genuinely open and public financial framework, aiming to transform the financial sector by placing community interests above profit motives.

Sei is set to transform the consumer application landscape by enhancing blockchain technology through its open-source initiatives. The foundation of its blockchain lies in a strong architecture that offers a reliable and secure environment for your projects. With remarkable scalability, Sei enables your initiatives to grow significantly without facing any performance limitations. Furthermore, Sei is designed for flexibility and expansion, ensuring that your projects remain at the cutting-edge of blockchain evolution. This platform is perfectly suited for groundbreaking applications while also integrating the latest trends and innovations in the blockchain industry. In addition, Sei is committed to achieving carbon neutrality, making it an excellent option for developers who prioritize sustainability, thus paving the way for a responsible future in blockchain technology. Consequently, Sei not only supports projects but also fosters responsible practices that are beneficial for both users and the environment, reinforcing its commitment to a greener tomorrow. Such dedication to sustainability and innovation positions Sei as a leader in creating impactful blockchain solutions.

The XRP Ledger: A Blockchain Designed for Businesses. The XRP Ledger (XRPL) is a decentralized and publicly accessible blockchain, created through the collaboration of a global network of enterprises and developers focused on solving problems and creating value. Having demonstrated over ten years of uninterrupted functionality, the XRPL offers streamlined development processes, low transaction costs, outstanding performance, and sustainability, enabling you to confidently pursue innovation while advancing your key projects. Furthermore, the XRPL's open peer-to-peer architecture encourages contributions from everyone, fostering a rich community of software developers, server operators, users, and businesses all working together to confront challenges and provide real-world advantages. This collaborative approach not only enhances the integrity of the ledger but also promotes continuous improvement and adaptability in response to the evolving needs of its users.

The cryptocurrency landscape today is fragmented, yet there exists a promising solution to bring it together. For the first time, developers are empowered to create projects, generate value, and exchange assets seamlessly on a single, high-performance blockchain. Central to the Hyperliquid Layer-1 is the HyperBFT consensus mechanism, which facilitates a variety of nodes in achieving a consensus on the overall system state. This state encompasses all software applications, whether they are integral components or part of the HyperEVM framework. The Hyper Foundation, established to promote the development of the Hyperliquid blockchain and its ecosystem, has announced plans for the initial distribution of its native token, HYPE. This initiative marks a significant step toward the implementation of proof-of-stake consensus and the launch of HyperEVM on the mainnet of the layer-1 blockchain. Among its key offerings, Hyperliquid features a decentralized trading platform that provides substantial on-chain liquidity for various asset classes. With the rollout of HyperEVM, applications built on Hyperliquid will capitalize on this extensive liquidity pool, thereby enhancing their overall functionality and user experience. These advancements not only illustrate the capabilities of the Hyperliquid platform but also signal a promising future for a more integrated and effective cryptocurrency ecosystem, as developers and users alike benefit from the enhanced resources available.

Somnia represents a groundbreaking Layer 1 blockchain that is fully EVM-compatible and designed for exceptional performance, making it perfect for real-time applications that target a broad audience, including gaming, social media, and immersive metaverse environments. Its distinctive multistream consensus mechanism, coupled with the sophisticated IceDB database, enables the network to process over 400,000 transactions per second with swift finality, all while keeping transaction costs remarkably low. This innovative framework allows developers to utilize familiar EVM tools and existing codebases, facilitating seamless integration and accelerating project timelines. Furthermore, by integrating reactive primitives into Solidity, Somnia enables the creation of fully on-chain applications that can respond dynamically to changes in data and events, driving the evolution of decentralized applications. With a strong focus on scalability and affordability, Somnia emerges as a leading platform for developing complex on-chain games, lively social networks, and expansive metaverses, all while promoting user empowerment, enhancing composability, and ensuring operational transparency. This technological evolution within the blockchain space not only unleashes new opportunities for developers but also enhances user engagement, suggesting a bright horizon for decentralized digital interactions. Ultimately, Somnia's innovative approach fosters a thriving ecosystem that holds immense potential for the future of digital experiences.

Presenting a blockchain solution tailored for enterprises that emphasizes sustainable growth. Leveraging Corda provides the chance to uncover fresh opportunities and transform your operations through various blockchain applications. R3 imagines a future where transactions take place directly and securely, building trust among all stakeholders involved. In this envisioned environment, business partners collaborate effortlessly, negating the need for trustless transactions. R3’s Corda is distinguished as a powerful enterprise blockchain platform that prioritizes enhanced privacy, security, interoperability, and scalability. At the heart of Corda are diverse applications, referred to as CorDapps, which are created by numerous contributors in the ecosystem. R3 leads the largest blockchain community worldwide, presenting considerable benefits to those involved as application developers or participants in exploration, with customized advantages that cater to the specific needs and developmental phases of your organization. By adopting this cutting-edge technology, businesses can not only thrive but also become leaders in the evolving landscape of digital transactions, thus ensuring their competitive edge in the market.

Celo is a groundbreaking platform that aims to make financial tools accessible to anyone equipped with a mobile device. It establishes a global framework for payments that is tailor-made for mobile usage. This open-source initiative is backed by a diverse community of organizations and individuals who work together to enhance and govern the platform, empowering users to build applications that cross international boundaries. With efficient incentives for both light clients and full nodes, Celo can scale to accommodate up to 6 billion smartphones. The platform is fully compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), facilitating an easy entry point for those new to the ecosystem. Furthermore, Celo includes a developing range of native stablecoins, such as Celo Dollars, which are tied to the values of various fiat currencies. Users have the option to pay transaction fees using stablecoins or personal tokens, offering them greater payment flexibility. The decentralized phone verification system enables seamless money transfers to any mobile number, thereby unlocking a wide range of global cash-in and cash-out options. For developers, Celo provides an array of robust tools that allow for exploration, innovation, and the launch of community-focused projects, thereby nurturing a dynamic ecosystem that champions financial inclusivity. Ultimately, Celo is reshaping the landscape of mobile finance, making it more accessible and versatile for users around the world. This transformative platform continues to evolve, promising even greater advancements in the future.

Solana stands out as an incredibly fast, secure, and censorship-resistant blockchain, providing the vital infrastructure necessary for its global adoption. Many leading projects in decentralized finance (DeFi), Web3, and blockchain gaming choose to build on Solana, emphasizing their commitment to sustainability over the long term. With the capability to process an astonishing 50,000 transactions per second, Solana distinguishes itself in the competitive blockchain environment. However, don’t just take our word for it—experience the network's exceptional speed for yourself. Say goodbye to high fees and slow transaction confirmations, as Solana is specifically designed for rapid execution without sacrificing quality. By leveraging Proof of History and other cutting-edge technologies, Solana effectively scales in line with Moore's Law. There’s no need to worry about rising costs as your user base grows; Solana assures consistently low fees, even for apps catering to billions of users. Its integrated global state fosters effortless composability between various projects, thereby removing the obstacles typically associated with multiple shards or layer 2 solutions. Consequently, developers are empowered to concentrate on innovation, free from the constraints of conventional blockchain systems, and can explore new possibilities in their projects without limitations.

The Worldwide Asset Exchange™ (WAX) stands as the largest decentralized network dedicated to entertainment and video gaming globally. We provide a highly secure and user-friendly platform for the creation, purchase, and sale of virtual items (NFTs), accessible to users from any location in the world. The innovative tokenomic framework of WAX merges the rapid expansion of NFTs with the enhanced monetization potential presented by decentralized finance (DeFi). Participants in the ecosystem are rewarded with Ethereum Tokens (ETH) and WAXG Governance Tokens for their involvement. Renowned global brands, such as deadmau5, Topps, and William Shatner, rely on WAX for their NFT sales initiatives. The platform empowers users to develop decentralized applications (dApps), games, and marketplaces. The WAX Developer Hive is an invaluable resource, offering documentation, quickstart guides, code samples, and more for developers. With WAX, users can engage in gaming or trade NFTs on a marketplace, and they also have the option to enhance their dApps for improved functionality and user experience. This flexibility makes WAX an essential choice for creators and gamers alike.