CertiK and YZi Labs Establish $1 Million Audit Grants for All EASY Residency Participants

CertiK and YZi Labs have launched a $1 million audit grant initiative for participants in the EASY Residency Incubation Program. The partnership aims to provide free security audits for early-stage blockchain founders. This initiative reflects a growing industry emphasis on securing code from the beginning of development.

The grant covers founders in YZi Labs' 12-week EASY Residency program, which supports Web3, AI, and biotech startups. Participants will also gain access to monitoring tools and AI-based scanning solutions. CertiK will handle the audits, using its experience in securing protocols with over $600 billion in assets.

Traditional security audits for blockchain projects can cost between $50,000 and $500,000. This can strain resources for early-stage teams. The grant reduces that financial burden, allowing founders to redirect capital toward product development and hiring.

Why Did This Partnership Happen?

The Web3 industry has historically prioritized speed over security. High-profile hacks and exploits have led to over $2 billion in losses in recent years. Founders and investors are now recognizing that secure code from the outset is more cost-effective than patching vulnerabilities later.

YZi Labs has positioned itself as a venture firm committed to long-term value. Its support for programs like EASY Residency aligns with a broader strategy of building infrastructure before market volatility. CertiK, with its backing from Sequoia and Goldman Sachs, brings additional credibility to the initiative.

How Does the Initiative Support Founders?

The EASY Residency program is designed for startups that prefer long-term development over quick exits. By offering free audits, CertiK and YZi Labs remove a significant barrier to entry for early-stage founders. This is particularly relevant for those with limited budgets.

Participants will also benefit from additional tools like Skynet monitoring. These provide ongoing security oversight during the development phase. The grant thus serves as a foundational support system for startups building their first products.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

The partnership signals a shift in the blockchain industry's approach to security. Analysts are observing whether this trend will influence other venture firms and security providers. If adopted more widely, it could lead to a more secure and sustainable Web3 ecosystem.

The initiative also has implications for regulatory scrutiny. Startups with institutional-grade security audits may find it easier to meet compliance requirements. This could improve their chances of attracting future investment and avoiding costly legal issues.

YZi Labs' involvement is especially notable. As a firm managing over $10 billion in assets, it has the influence to shape industry standards. Its collaboration with CertiK may encourage other players to follow suit, reinforcing the importance of security in the early stages of development.