Ryze Labs, a prominent investor in Web3 projects, has launched the inaugural cohort of its AI Combinator program, welcoming three cutting-edge participants: Eliza, GNON, and Bitte. The initiative also introduces two new advisors and four strategic partners to provide guidance and technical support. The program aims to advance innovation by combining artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology, offering funding, mentorship, and access to a robust network to help developers create transformative solutions for the Web3 space.
Ryze Labs described its AI Combinator as a platform designed to drive significant advancements at the intersection of AI and crypto. Company representatives noted that the program fosters collaborative learning and the development of best practices, establishing an environment where participants can refine their technologies and address evolving industry challenges.
Introducing the First Cohort
The program’s debut cohort features three innovative projects that address diverse challenges within the AI and blockchain sectors:
Eliza ($ELIZA): Inspired by ElizaOS’s open-source framework, Eliza represents an advanced AI companion that transcends traditional digital interactions. Described as a customizable, evolving presence, Eliza leverages on-chain tokenization to integrate seamlessly into users’ lives. The project aims to redefine digital companionship, starting as a virtual confidant and eventually evolving into a wearable AI partner and physical robotic assistant.
GNON: Focused on decentralized agent-to-agent communication, GNON provides a platform that facilitates research into AI behaviors, communication strategies, and multi-agent interactions. The project prioritizes transparency and verifiability, offering researchers unparalleled access to data while maintaining flexibility for diverse use cases, including safety assessments and behavioral studies.
Bitte: Positioned at the forefront of AI-powered cross-chain communication, Bitte has developed an on-chain agent marketplace. Users can create or replicate AI agents capable of performing a range of blockchain commands, such as minting NFTs, deploying smart contracts, and executing DeFi transactions. The project utilizes Chain Abstraction and natural language processing to simplify complex blockchain interactions, making them accessible to a broader audience.
Technical and Ecosystem Partners
To support participants in achieving their goals, Ryze Labs has onboarded leading technical and ecosystem partners. Among the technical consultants are Polyhedra Network and Phala Network. Polyhedra Network focuses on building scalable, secure infrastructure for AI and blockchain applications, while Phala Network offers a trustless cloud platform for verifiable computing, providing cost-effective solutions for developers worldwide.
Additionally, several ecosystem partners have joined the program to expand AI applications across multiple Layer-1 networks and regions. These include TON Ventures, which supports startups building within The Open Network ecosystem, Farcaster Builders International, a community that fosters innovation across Base and Farcaster networks, and Web3 Afrika, an initiative dedicated to empowering Web3 developers within Africa and the global African diaspora. These collaborations aim to enhance accessibility and encourage diverse participation in the blockchain space.
New Advisory Talent to Strengthen Development
Ryze Labs further announced the addition of two key advisors, Shaw and Chris, both associated with ai16z. Shaw, recognized for his work as a public advocate of open-source AI, emphasizes the importance of democratizing access to AI tools and resources. Chris, meanwhile, focuses on leveraging open-source AI to unlock new creative possibilities, encouraging collaboration and innovation in storytelling and entertainment. Both advisors bring substantial expertise in building ecosystems at the intersection of AI and blockchain, further strengthening the AI Combinator program’s mission.
Ryze Labs underscored its commitment to accelerating progress in AI and crypto innovation. The company highlighted the strategic value of collaborating with visionary advisors and trusted partners to support early-stage AI projects capable of driving meaningful advancements within the Web3 landscape.
Building the Future of AI and Blockchain
With the launch of the AI Combinator, Ryze Labs aims to establish itself as a central hub for innovation in AI-driven blockchain solutions. The program’s combination of funding, mentorship, and technical expertise is expected to propel the inaugural cohort’s projects toward significant milestones. Ryze Labs emphasized its long-term vision of shaping a more connected, intelligent, and decentralized digital ecosystem through its strategic initiatives.
The AI Combinator represents a bold step in combining the capabilities of artificial intelligence and blockchain, paving the way for new applications that enhance user experiences and expand the boundaries of Web3 technologies.