In a significant development for the blockchain industry, the team behind Polygon zkEVM has officially spun off into a new independent entity named Zisk. This move comes as Polygon undergoes a strategic pivot, with its zero-knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine (zkEVM) network entering a sunset phase. The transition marks a new chapter for the team, led by Polygon co-founder Jordi Baylina, who aims to push the boundaries of decentralized technology.
Zisk, now operating as a standalone project, is focused on developing an open-source zero-knowledge virtual machine (zkVM) stack. This technology is designed to enhance blockchain scalability and support multiple programming languages, accelerating the adoption of decentralized solutions. Baylina and his team are betting on low-latency zkVM tech to carve out a niche in the competitive blockchain space.
The spin-off follows Polygon Foundation's decision to redirect resources away from the zkEVM chain, which reportedly had a $250 million investment, towards other priorities like Polygon PoS and AggLayer. This shift has raised questions among industry observers about the future viability of zkEVM tech under Zisk, with some critics wondering if the project is too late to make a significant impact.
Despite the challenges, Zisk retains the core minds behind Polygon zkEVM, and all intellectual property and code have been transferred to SilentSig GmbH, a Swiss-registered entity. This move ensures that Zisk can operate independently while continuing to innovate in the zero-knowledge proof space.
Industry experts see this as a bold step by Baylina, who remains an advisor to Polygon while spearheading Zisk. The project’s open-source nature could attract developers and organizations looking for customizable blockchain solutions, potentially positioning Zisk as a key player in the future of decentralized tech.
As the blockchain ecosystem continues to evolve, the success of Zisk will likely hinge on its ability to deliver on promises of scalability and accessibility. For now, the industry watches closely as Baylina and his team embark on this ambitious journey to redefine zero-knowledge technology.
Maria Lourdes
