Latest DePIN Funding News

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has officially dismissed its lawsuit against Nova Labs, the company responsible for the Helium Network. This decision clarifies that the tokens and hotspot devices associated with the Helium blockchain do not qualify as securities. Helium stated that the SEC's ruling indicates that "selling hardware and distributing tokens for network growth does not automatically make them securities." This landmark decision not only sets a precedent but also alleviates legal uncertainties surrounding the regulatory treatment of decentralized physical infrastructure networks, marking a significant shift in the SEC's approach under new leadership. The lawsuit, originally filed on January 17, accused Nova Labs of violating securities laws through unregistered offerings and misleading investors regarding partnerships with major corporations like Nestlé and Salesforce. The dismissal of this case is particularly notable as it was one of the last enforcement actions taken by former SEC Chair Gary Gensler before his departure. Helium co-founder Amir Haleem described the SEC's actions as "the last gasp of a failed crusade against crypto companies in the U.S." Following the dismissal, Nova Labs reached a modest settlement of $200,000 related to its Series D equity financing, which is significantly lower than penalties imposed in previous crypto-related cases. The resolution of this case is part of a broader trend of reversals by the SEC under the newly appointed leadership of Paul Atkins, who was confirmed by the Senate. During the interim period after Gensler's exit, the SEC has moved to dismiss several major crypto enforcement actions and has issued statements exempting various crypto activities from securities regulation. Despite the positive news for Helium, the network's native token, Helium (HNT), saw little movement, remaining at $2.76 according to CoinGecko data.

In a significant development within the DePIN ecosystem, the DoubleZero Foundation has secured a remarkable investment of $28 million from top venture capital firms, including Dragonfly and Multicoin Capital. Founded by Austin Federa, who previously played a pivotal role at the Solana Foundation, DoubleZero aims to create a robust web3 infrastructure by addressing the challenges faced by current blockchain networks. The project is designed to enhance bandwidth and reduce latency, facilitating smoother operations for web3 applications. The investment signals strong support from the Solana ecosystem, indicating a collective effort to build a physical infrastructure network that can rival traditional web2 solutions. Another noteworthy project, Roam, has emerged as a decentralized wireless network built on the Solana blockchain. Launched on March 6, Roam aims to provide seamless WiFi and eSIM connections globally, boasting over 2.3 million users and 2 million WiFi nodes across 190 countries. With a market capitalization exceeding $60 million, Roam utilizes blockchain technology to ensure secure connections and automatic network switching. Its innovative approach, combined with a strong incentive mechanism for users to share WiFi, positions Roam as a leading player in the DePIN space, drawing comparisons to Starlink for its ground-based communication solutions. As of mid-March 2025, the DePIN ecosystem on Solana has flourished, with a market value surpassing $25 billion. This growth is attributed to Solana's technical advantages, such as high throughput and low transaction costs, making it an attractive platform for DePIN projects. The Solana Foundation's proactive support through funding and hackathons has further nurtured this ecosystem. With approximately 78 DePIN projects currently active on Solana, including notable names like Helium and Render Network, the platform is poised to lead the way in decentralized physical infrastructure, showcasing its potential to reshape the future of connectivity and data sharing in the blockchain space.

Phala Network and Streamr have announced an exciting new partnership aimed at revolutionizing the landscape of decentralized AI. This collaboration merges Phala's trusted computing infrastructure with Streamr's decentralized, real-time data streaming capabilities. The goal is to create a new class of AI agents that can process live data securely and privately, without relying on centralized intermediaries. By combining these technologies, the vision of real-time, decentralized AI is becoming a reality, paving the way for innovative applications in various sectors. Streamr operates on a decentralized network specifically designed for real-time data streaming, utilizing a peer-to-peer architecture and a publish/subscribe model. This structure allows data producers to broadcast streams that can be instantly consumed by applications and nodes, significantly reducing latency and enhancing resilience. The integration of blockchain technology within Streamr supports monetization and access control through its native DATA token, fostering a robust open data economy for Web3 applications. This partnership emphasizes a shared mission to create a more open and user-controlled web, moving away from reliance on traditional cloud services. The collaboration leverages Phala's Trusted Execution Environments (TEEs) and Phat Contracts, which provide secure, encrypted enclaves for AI computations. This ensures that even the machine's owner cannot access the data or logic, creating a strong foundation for verifiable AI computation. By integrating Streamr's real-time data delivery with Phala's secure compute layer, developers can create AI systems that process live data while preserving privacy and resisting censorship. This partnership not only showcases the potential of decentralized infrastructure but also opens new avenues for developers to build innovative AI solutions aligned with the core values of Web3—privacy, transparency, and decentralization.

MVL, a leader in blockchain-based mobility solutions, has officially launched its mainnet on April 9, 2025, marking a significant advancement in its mission to create a value-sharing mobility ecosystem. Founded in 2018, MVL aims to ensure that drivers, riders, and service providers benefit equitably through blockchain technology. The new mainnet is built on Base Appchains, a Layer 3 app-specific rollup developed by the Coinbase Developer Platform, which allows MVL to operate independently without competing for resources. This setup provides MVL with enhanced scalability, faster transaction speeds, and a robust infrastructure, ensuring a seamless experience for users of its services, particularly the zero-commission ride-hailing platform, TADA. The launch of the MVL mainnet is pivotal for the expansion of TADA, which has already established itself as the second leading ride-hailing service in Singapore and is set to enter the U.S. market through a partnership with Drivers Cooperative Colorado. This collaboration aims to introduce a zero-commission ride-sharing service in the U.S., leveraging TADA's technology and operational expertise. The integration of TADA's infrastructure onto the blockchain, referred to as DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network), enhances transparency and shifts control back to users, challenging traditional platform models that often prioritize corporate profits over user benefits. In addition to TADA, MVL has launched 'Musubi', a digitized vehicle finance platform that connects ride-hailing drivers with investors. Musubi allows for the digitization of vehicle-related rights, providing real-time access to critical data such as vehicle location and performance metrics. CEO Kay Woo emphasized that the mainnet will unify MVL's services, fostering synergies across the ecosystem and driving further innovation in the mobility sector. With ongoing expansions and partnerships, MVL is poised to redefine the future of mobility through blockchain technology.

The cryptocurrency market has recently experienced significant downturns, with Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Solana (SOL) facing notable losses. Bitcoin is currently trading at $78,431.78, reflecting a 4.99% decline over the past 24 hours, while Ethereum has dropped 10.32% to $1,577.75. This bearish trend is indicative of a broader shift in market sentiment, influenced by instability in traditional financial markets, including major stock indices like the Shanghai Composite and the Hang Seng Index, which have also seen sharp declines. Investors are increasingly cautious, leading to speculation about the future of these digital assets amidst a challenging economic landscape. Solana has emerged as one of the more significant casualties in this downturn, with its price falling to $99.93, marking a staggering 63% drop from its all-time high of $270. Once viewed as a strong competitor to Ethereum, Solana's recent struggles highlight the volatility inherent in altcoins. The negative sentiment surrounding Solana mirrors a broader trend in the altcoin sector, where many tokens are experiencing substantial losses as investors shift towards safer assets. This shift is driven by various factors, including global economic uncertainties and tightening regulations, further complicating the outlook for smaller projects in the cryptocurrency space. As the cryptocurrency market grapples with these challenges, the ongoing decline in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana prices underscores the difficulties faced by investors. The current market environment, characterized by risk aversion and a preference for liquidity, suggests that the path ahead may be fraught with obstacles. Investors are advised to exercise caution and patience as they navigate this increasingly volatile landscape, with many keeping a close watch on how these assets perform as we progress through 2025. The interplay between traditional financial markets and cryptocurrencies will likely continue to shape investor sentiment and market dynamics in the months to come.

Karrier One Inc., a leader in Web3-powered telecom solutions, has announced a significant partnership with AT&T Mobility LLC aimed at enhancing both domestic and international Wi-Fi offload capabilities. This collaboration is set to accelerate the adoption of decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN) for next-generation wireless connectivity. By leveraging the Sui blockchain, this initiative will expand global Wi-Fi offload coverage, allowing users to enjoy seamless and secure connectivity in premium locations around the world. Under the terms of the agreement, Karrier One will enable AT&T Mobility and its subscribers to access an expanded network of Wi-Fi offload locations utilizing Hotspot 2.0/Passpoint technology. This advancement is expected to reduce costs and improve network performance, ensuring that subscribers remain connected in areas where traditional cellular infrastructure may fall short. The initiative aligns with AT&T's ongoing commitment to enhancing network coverage and embracing innovative Web3-driven telecom solutions. Samer Bishay, CEO and Co-Founder of Karrier One, emphasized the importance of alternative infrastructure models in the evolving telecom landscape. He stated that this partnership not only enhances connectivity but also shapes the future of decentralized telecom infrastructure, making networks more resilient and accessible. By combining licensed spectrum, Wi-Fi offload, and blockchain innovation, Karrier One and AT&T aim to revolutionize telecom infrastructure, ultimately improving user experiences and reducing operational costs for subscribers worldwide.

The crypto market is currently showing signs of a potential breakout, with altcoins gaining momentum rapidly. Historically, significant price movements begin quietly, allowing astute investors to position themselves before explosive growth occurs. For those seeking undervalued altcoins with substantial upside potential, now is an opportune moment to invest. Among the top contenders, Kaanch Network stands out as a presale-stage project poised for significant gains. Kaanch Network (KAANCH) is a high-utility altcoin designed for real-world applications, including tokenized supply chains and decentralized AI. Currently in its active presale phase, it presents a unique entry point before it gains traction through exchange listings and media attention. The project is gaining popularity among early investors due to its innovative approach and alignment with major trends like DePIN and AI. With strong community support and early venture capital interest, Kaanch Network is well-positioned for a breakout. Other notable altcoins include Injective Protocol (INJ) and Theta Network (THETA). Injective Protocol is a high-speed derivatives engine tailored for DeFi applications, benefiting from the resurgence of decentralized finance and increasing trading volumes. Meanwhile, Theta Network focuses on decentralized video streaming and content delivery, capitalizing on the shift towards Web3 entertainment. As these projects continue to develop and attract attention, investors are encouraged to act quickly before these tokens experience significant price increases.

XNET, a project based on the Solana blockchain, has recently announced a strategic partnership with AT&T, a major player in the US telecommunications industry. This collaboration aims to enhance the efficiency of mobile data traffic management by allowing AT&T to offload some of its mobile data onto XNET's decentralized network of Wi-Fi hotspots. XNET incentivizes businesses and public spaces to deploy these hotspots by rewarding them with XNET tokens, effectively creating a distributed wireless network that alleviates congestion and improves overall coverage. As part of this agreement, which has been operational since September 2024, AT&T customers can seamlessly connect to XNET's Wi-Fi network, with AT&T compensating XNET for the data usage in dollars, which is then distributed to XNET's node operators in the form of tokens. Currently, XNET boasts 688 active nodes and has facilitated connections for approximately 9 million users through its network. The co-founder of XNET, Richard DeVaul, emphasized the importance of their token in financing the network's infrastructure, stating that traditional equity or debt financing would have posed significant challenges. He described XNET as a prime example of Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN), showcasing how the project has successfully utilized its token to bootstrap operations and equipment financing. This innovative approach positions XNET as a unique player in the decentralized network space, distinguishing itself from competitors like Helium Mobile, which focuses on individual hotspot installations. While both XNET and Helium Mobile operate in the decentralized network sector, XNET's business model is strictly B2B, targeting high-value locations for hotspot deployment. DeVaul noted that they view Helium as a potential customer rather than a competitor, indicating a collaborative spirit within the industry. As the demand for decentralized networks continues to grow, partnerships like that of XNET and AT&T may pave the way for more efficient and widespread internet access, ultimately benefiting users and businesses alike.

The recent downturn in the cryptocurrency market, particularly for AI-focused tokens, has been significantly influenced by Microsoft's decision to slow its data center expansion plans. In the past 24 hours, Bittensor's token has plummeted by 10%, with a staggering 24% drop over the past week. Render Token (RNDR) and Grass have similarly faced declines of 10% and 20% respectively, contributing to a 10% decrease in the overall market cap of AI tokens tracked by CoinGecko. This trend mirrors the performance of major AI-related stocks, with NVIDIA experiencing a more than 30% decline from its 2024 peak and AMD dropping 47% from its highs this year. The impact of Microsoft's announcement, which includes halting or delaying data center developments across multiple countries, raises concerns about the pace of growth in the AI sector. This news is particularly striking given Microsoft's pivotal role in AI commercialization through its collaboration with OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT. Analysts from TD Cowen have expressed worries about a potential oversupply of data centers, suggesting that the demand may not keep pace with the rapid expansion previously anticipated. The AI boom has attracted numerous developers in the crypto space, with projects like Bittensor offering decentralized marketplaces for AI learning models, where miners earn TAO tokens by contributing computing resources. Render operates on Solana, providing a platform for users to lease GPU power, while Grass incentivizes users to earn tokens through app installations. Additionally, the decline in AI meme coins, particularly within the Virtuals Protocol ecosystem, highlights the broader market correction, with tokens like GAME seeing their valuations plummet from $350 million to just $13 million since January.

A recent report titled "The DePIN Token Economics Report" by Tom Trowbridge has shed light on the growing interest of traditional equity investors in Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN). The report highlights how DePIN is revolutionizing real-world services such as Wi-Fi, energy, and computing. With over 1,000 projects and 3 million providers, DePIN has shown significant revenue traction, with hardware costs plummeting by 95% in recent years. Notably, Helium reported $350,000 in revenue for Q4 2024, while Geodnet achieved an annualized revenue of $3 million, showcasing the financial viability of these decentralized networks. Traditional equity investors, who have historically been skeptical of token projects, are now recognizing DePIN as a promising investment avenue. The report indicates that this investor demographic is significantly larger than that of alt-coin investors, primarily due to DePIN's tangible services and impressive revenue metrics. The buy-and-burn mechanisms employed by various DePIN projects, such as Geodnet and Hivemapper, further enhance the appeal by linking revenue directly to token value. This financial model provides a clearer benchmark for investors, as evidenced by Geodnet's $500,000 revenue in Q4 2024, which supports price growth in its tokens. Moreover, Trowbridge emphasizes the importance of simplicity in DePIN's token economics, suggesting that models should be straightforward to avoid confusion among investors. The report also highlights the necessity for transparency in the sector, especially in light of Helium's recent SEC charge for misleading investors. As DePIN continues to shift the narrative of cryptocurrency from speculation to utility, Trowbridge asserts that projects offering real-world services are scaling more rapidly and providing superior services at lower prices compared to their centralized counterparts. This shift could redefine the landscape of crypto investments, making DePIN a focal point for future growth in the industry.