Binance Labs will now be known as YZi Labs as it pushes forth into its next phase with Binance founder and former CEO, CZ, taking an active role in the firm.
Binance Labs has officially changed its name to YZi Labs, which marks a new phase in its growth. This rebranding reflects its move towards independence and its plans to expand investments beyond blockchain and crypto into areas like artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology.
The decision to rebrand follows years of operating independently, even while using the Binance name. With Binance founder CZ stepping down from his role at Binance, the change aligns with the organization’s desire to chart a path different from Binance.
CZ will stay actively involved in YZi Labs, mentoring and supporting startup founders to help them grow their businesses. Alongside CZ, will be Ella Zhang, who previously helped launch Binance Labs in 2018. She will lead YZi Labs into this new phase of its development.
CZ founded Binance in 2017. Under his leadership, Binance quickly became one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges due to its user-friendly platform, low fees, and wide range of services.
In late 2023, CZ stepped down as CEO of Binance as part of a settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). Binance and CZ were accused of violating anti-money laundering and sanctions laws. CZ and Binance agreed to pay significant fines as part of the settlement, with CZ personally paying $50 million. CZ would spend several months in prison.
Ella Zhang joined Binance in 2018 as the head of Binance Labs, the company’s venture capital and incubation arm. During her tenure, she led initiatives that supported over 40 innovative startups, including well-known names like Polygon and CertiK.
In 2020, Ella left Binance Labs to pursue her own entrepreneurial ventures, stepping away from the crypto industry for a time. She focused on exploring opportunities and gaining further experience in leadership and innovation.
The duo will now lead YZi Labs following this rebranding. YZi Labs plans to focus on investments that combine Web3, AI, and biotech. The company will continue to support startups with strong ideas and the potential to make a lasting impact, regardless of market trends.
Speaking on the rebranding, CZ said that this change is about expanding the company’s vision while staying true to its roots. He praised Ella’s return, saying her leadership was key to the organization’s early success, and he’s confident she will drive further innovation.
Ella Zhang expressed her excitement to rejoin at this pivotal time, reaffirming YZi Labs’ mission to support founders who aim to make long-term contributions to society. She highlighted the importance of exploring AI and biotech while maintaining a strong foundation in Web3.
YZi Laba noted that the rebranding will not affect existing programs or partnerships. It will continue supporting its current portfolio, which includes over 250 projects across more than 25 countries. Founders in the incubation program and initiatives like the BNB Chain’s Most Valuable Builder (MVB) program will still receive the same level of support.
