iExec Drops $1M RLC Bomb to Lure AI and DePIN Builders—Because Free Money Still Exists in Crypto

Decentralized cloud outfit iExec is tossing a cool million in RLC tokens at developers working on AI and decentralized physical infrastructure (DePIN). The move smacks of desperation—or genius—depending on who you ask. Will this fund actually spur innovation, or just line the pockets of degens who’ll dump the tokens at the first pump? Either way, it’s a bold play in a market where ‘ecosystem funds’ often vanish faster than a meme coin’s liquidity. Bonus jab: Because nothing says ‘sustainable growth’ like bribing devs with your own token.

iExec, the platform serving as the trust layer for DePIN and AI, has announced a 1M $RLC ecosystem fund to back web3 projects across key sectors. Funding will be allocated via both dilutive and non-dilutive investments to projects to build novel solutions spanning DePIN, and AI.

The iExec Ecosystem Fund supports the long-term goal of advancing blockchain by furnishing abuilders with the tooling to create powerful decentralized applications. With a focus on confidential computing and privacy-first solutions, iExec aims to foster an environment where groundbreaking ideas thrive.

The launch of the iExec Ecosystem Fund follows the recently announced strategic buyback of the $RLC token, and will serve as a key resource for builders looking to make an impact. For builders shaping the next era of web3 adoption, the fund will provide both dilutive and non-dilutive investments to support projects at every stage, from early development to scale-up. 

In addition to DePIN, AI, and DeFi, iExec is seeking developers building solutions involving RWAs, SoFi, and privacy-preserving infrastructure. Builders will be able to utilize iExec dev tools and SDKs for seamless integration and benefit from mentoring as well as funding to help realize their full potential.

iExec CRO, Nathan Chiron, said: “We invest in conviction, not consensus, and with the launch of the RLC Ecosystem Fund, we’re confident we can add real value by backing the builders defining the future of AI and DePIN, one that puts privacy first. More than just an investment, the fund is a catalyst for meaningful impact and real-world adoption.

Beyond financial support, iExec will provide builders with a network of technical expertise, strategic partnerships, and key resources, including access to the newly formed AI Unbundled Alliance, a new industry network supporting decentralized AI infrastructure, to bring their visions to life. The fund is open to projects that contribute to the broader web3 landscape, driving adoption and technological progress across the industry.

iExec is the trust layer for DePIN and AI. iExec enables confidential computing and trusted off-chain execution, powered by a decentralized TEE-based CPU and GPU infrastructure.

Developers access developer tools and computing resources to build privacy-preserving applications across AI, DeFi, RWA, big data and more.

The iExec ecosystem allows any participant to control, protect, and monetize their digital assets ranging from computing power, personal data, and code, to AI models – all via the iExec RLC token, driving an asset-based token economy.

Learn more: https://www.iex.ec/