Hyperlane

Hyperlane is an open interoperability framework, providing tools for developers to connect and build cross-chain applications that communicate securely across blockchains. It operates without a token or governance process. In 2022, Hyperlane raised $18.5 million in seed funding led by Variant, with support from investors like Galaxy Digital and Circle.

Kim Exchange

KIM is a ecosystem-focused DEX that differentiates itself by prioritizing community-driven development and offering a customizable protocol for sustainable liquidity on the Mode network. Unlike traditional DEXs, KIM emphasizes a community and ecosystem-first approach, enabling both builders and users to benefit from its tailored infrastructure. In terms of governance, KIM operates without a formal system, devoid of traditional token-based voting mechanisms. Financially, KIM is entirely self-bootstrapped, demonstrating a commitment to organic growth and independence by developing and expanding through its own resources, without external funding from investors, grants, or participation in funding rounds.

Comet Protocol

Comet Protocol is a cross-chain communication aggregator designed to seamlessly connect Ethereum, Bitcoin, and other Layer 1 blockchains. Inspired by the enduring nature of comets, the protocol aims to enable secure, continuous, and uninterrupted asset transfers across multiple blockchain networks. Its mission is to foster an interconnected and scalable blockchain ecosystem, breaking down barriers between isolated networks to accelerate decentralized finance adoption. The project is currently self-funded and does not have a formal governance process in place. Comet Protocol has not yet issued a token, with the tokenomics still in development.

LogX

LogX is a perp dex offering deep liquidity and an efficient leveraged trading experience, moving away from traditional reliance on external liquidity providers. It allows trading against a pool of stable assets, with innovative features like a dark oracle for price aggregation and a risk management framework. While LogX has launched an airdrop program, it currently lacks a native token, focusing on user engagement through rewards. Governance is code-centric, reflecting its early stage without a token-based decision-making process. The project has secured $6.1 million in funding from notable investors such as Sequoia Capital and Coinbase Ventures, marking its potential within the DeFi ecosystem.

Swapmode

SwapMode offers real yields from protocol-generated swap fees, and enabling transactions at significantly lower costs. Its dual-token system, involving $SMD for transactional purposes and $xSMD for staking and earning real yield, incentivizes user participation and ensures a fair value distribution within its ecosystem. Governance is democratized through $xSMD token holders, who have voting rights on key decisions, promoting a decentralized and community-driven decision-making process. Unlike many of its counterparts, SwapMode is self-bootstrapped, emphasizing its commitment to innovation, efficiency, and community engagement without relying on external funding.

Ionic Money

Ionic is a non-custodial money market protocol offering unparalleled control and security to its users through a code-centric governance model. Ionic differentiates itself with a novel Point System, rewarding users for contributing to the ecosystem without issuing a conventional token. This system encourages engagement through lending, borrowing, and referrals, with varying points potential for different activities. The project is entirely self-bootstrapped, relying on its resources for development without external funding. This approach underlines Ionic's commitment to innovation and self-sustainability in the competitive DeFi landscape.