Semantic Layer's $5M Series A Targets Institutional Blockchain Control Gap

Semantic Layer, a blockchain infrastructure firm focused on on-chain artificial intelligence and decentralized applications (dApps), has secured $5 million in a Series A funding round led by Greenfield Capital, as reported in a VentureBurn report. The investment follows a $3 million seed round previously led by Figment Capital, signaling growing institutional interest in blockchain-based AI infrastructure. The latest funding will advance Semantic Layer's mission to develop systems that enable digital agents to operate autonomously on-chain, while enhancing asset ordering sovereignty for institutions.

The company's technology aims to bridge traditional finance workflows with decentralized blockchain settlement by providing tools for institutions to integrate blockchain into operations, the VentureBurn report noted. Central to its architecture is a framework for on-chain execution, allowing dApps to control how actions are sequenced and processed. This is particularly relevant in decentralized finance (DeFi), where transaction order can impact performance and fairness. By leveraging AI-enabled agents, Semantic Layer seeks to reduce risks like front-running and transaction delays while improving transparency.

The funding comes amid a surge in demand for infrastructure that meets institutional standards in the blockchain space. Semantic Layer claims to have processed billions in transaction volume since its launch, according to VentureBurn, positioning itself to scale in a market increasingly focused on tokenisation, global payments, and DeFi protocols. The company plans to expand its development team, enhance its API stack, and grow partnerships, with a focus on on-chain adoption of its sequencing technology. Investors view the timing as strategic, as blockchain firms evolve from niche protocols to infrastructure providers with broader ambitions.

Semantic Layer's Series A round aligns with a broader trend of increased investment in decentralized AI. The company's focus on asset ordering sovereignty—giving clients control over transaction sequencing rather than relying on external validators—addresses a key challenge for institutional adoption of blockchain. This approach could enable new models of dApps where ecosystems operate with predictable logic, reducing reliance on intermediaries, a point also highlighted in an Intellectia report.

Despite the optimism, challenges remain. Semantic Layer must demonstrate that its technology can operate at institutional volumes while maintaining compliance across jurisdictions, VentureBurn warns. The competitive landscape for blockchain infrastructure is intensifying, and regulatory uncertainties persist in many regions. However, the company's current trajectory—backed by Greenfield Capital and with prior support from Figment Capital—suggests confidence in its ability to navigate these hurdles.

The $5 million Series A positions Semantic Layer to expand its influence in the Ethereum ecosystem, where on-chain AI and MEV (Miner Extractable Value) technologies are gaining traction, an observation made in the Intellectia report. Analysts suggest the investment could lead to significant advancements in digital asset sovereignty and decentralized applications, potentially reshaping how institutions interact with blockchain. Over the next 12–18 months, the company's success will hinge on its ability to integrate its technology into major dApps and financial workflows while maintaining operational discipline, according to VentureBurn.