Binance Labs has officially rebranded to YZi Labs, marking a strategic shift to reflect its independence and broadened investment priorities. The move, announced on January 23, accompanies new leadership and a vision to explore opportunities in Web3, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology.
Meanwhile, Ella Zhang, the founding head of Binance Labs, returns as Head of YZi Labs to spearhead this new chapter, while Binance founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao assumes an active mentorship role. The organization will retain its commitment to fostering Web3 innovation while venturing into adjacent fields.
Yzi Labs: New Identity, Broadened Vision
The rebrand signifies the culmination of years operating independently under the Binance name. With CZ stepping down from Binance leadership, the transition reflects the lab’s focus on expanding beyond crypto and blockchain.
“Rebranding to YZi Labs is more than a name change—it signifies an expanded vision as we broaden our horizons to include transformative sectors like AI and biotech,” said CZ in the announcement. “Ella Zhang’s leadership will ensure YZi Labs continues identifying and backing founders driving long-term impact.”
Leadership Transition
Ella Zhang, who co-launched Binance Labs with CZ in 2018, brings deep investment expertise and hands-on experience. During her previous tenure, she led the first three incubation program cohorts, supporting notable projects like Polygon, Injective Protocol, and CertiK. After stepping away in 2020 to pursue entrepreneurial ventures, Zhang returns to guide YZi Labs’ next growth phase.
“I’m excited to rejoin YZi Labs at this pivotal moment,” Zhang said. “By venturing into new horizons in AI and biotech, while staying rooted in our Web3 foundations, we aim to push the boundaries of innovation and create lasting value for society.”
Focused Investment Strategy
YZi Labs plans to invest across all stages of development, emphasizing projects with strong fundamentals and long-term potential. The lab will refine its 12-week residency-based incubation program, designed to foster collaboration among founders and industry experts.
Despite the broadened scope, YZi Labs will maintain support for existing initiatives, including BNB Chain’s Most Valuable Builder (MVB) program.
Supporting Founders and Innovation
Under its new identity, YZi Labs aims to combine technological expertise and mentorship to empower visionary entrepreneurs. With the continued guidance of CZ and Zhang, the lab is positioned to drive innovation at the intersection of Web3, AI, and biotech.
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