A New Chapter for Binance Labs
Binance Labs, the venture capital arm and incubator for Binance Holdings, announced a new chapter. The organization has introduced itself with a fresh identity and an expanded mission, rebranded as YZi Labs, announced on January 23. It is spearheaded by Binance founder Changpeng Zhao, commonly referred to as CZ, along with co-founder Ella Zhang-a renewed focus on innovation and growth.
The rebranding reflects how Binance Labs has grown from an incubator for cryptocurrencies into an extended investment strategy under the family office model. Under CZ’s leadership, YZi Labs brings in a new mantle of leadership from a rather eventful year that was.
Expanded Vision
YZi Labs will target new horizons, creating investments in disruptive fields like artificial intelligence, web3, and biotechnology, while continuing to nurture blockchain innovation. The ambition of the firm is to foster those very advancements that would go on to change the concept of industries altogether.
“Rebranding to YZi Labs is more than a name change-it represents an extended vision as we expand our sights to include innovative sectors like AI and biotech,” emphasized CZ.
This strategic shift plays into the global trend of interdisciplinary technologies, further sealing YZi Labs’ position as a pioneer in venture capital.
Leadership and Legacy
Ella Zhang, who co-founded Binance Labs back in 2018, rejoins as its co-leader alongside CZ. During her time, Zhang served a key role in building some of the most successful projects within the crypto space. Notable names like Polygon, Injective, Dune Analytics, Certik, and SafePal were incubated through Binance Labs during Zhang’s time at the lab.
Her re-appointment signifies continuity and expertise in ensuring that YZi Labs keeps the good reputation it has built while evolving with the expanded vision.
CZ’s Comeback and New Direction
The rebranding also heralds the return of CZ to center stage. Since his resignation as CEO of Binance in 2023 and subsequent four-month imprisonment, CZ has doubled down on “impact” investments. Experience has taught him what he wants to achieve with YZi Labs and similar projects, such as Giggle Academy, which is an educational platform for innovators and creators.
Building the Future
This means YZi Labs will enrich the incubation program, restoring residency programs for project founders. Still, the company will be committed to its ecosystem, with a portfolio of over 250 projects and driving innovation in new focused areas.
As YZi Labs creates this new path, it renews its commitment to the progress of technology in creating meaningful and long-lasting change.
