Fund Aims to Catalyze Innovation in Gaming, Digital Finance, and Builder Economies
NEXPACE, the Web3 IP-expansion initiative behind MapleStory Universe (MSU), has announced the launch of its Ecosystem Fund with a commitment of up to US$50 million. This fund is designed to accelerate the long-term growth of both MSU and the broader NEXPACE ecosystem, underscoring NEXPACE’s mission to build an open, self-sustaining Web3 platform that fuels the next evolution of gaming experiences. Beyond mass adoption, it aims to lay the financial rails and builder foundation for communities to create new digital worlds where play, creativity, and economy converge within the ecosystem.
Nexpace, an affiliate of Nexon, a global leader in online games, plans to invest in adjacent sectors that strengthen ecosystem fundamentals. These include financial infrastructure, AI, tokenized real-world assets (RWAs), and the builder economy. The Ecosystem Fund’s vision extends beyond the game to address the operational and structural constraints that have limited traditional siloed blockchain game ecosystems. Any fund deployment will be subject to an internal project review and approval process.
“This initiative reflects our belief that the future of gaming experiences and interactive entertainment depends on real-world utility and sustainability,” said Sunyoung Hwang, CEO of NEXPACE. “The Ecosystem Fund plans to serve as a catalyst for the expansion we’ve already been driving beyond games. It will accelerate our vision of building a connected universe where digital finance, AI, and builder innovation together form the foundation of a sustainable, player-driven economy.”
Strategic Advisory Partners and Collaboration Framework
The Ecosystem Fund will invest in strengthening ecosystem footholds across global blockchain and entertainment markets, paving the way for pilot projects and expansion efforts. To support this process, NEXPACE has entered into Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with a curated group of strategic advisory partners. These partners span venture capital, infrastructure, and research, and share a common vision of building a sustainable, fundamentals-driven Web3 ecosystem. Key partners include Altos Ventures, Chainlink Labs, GSR, and Hashed Ventures.
These partners will engage as strategic collaborators, providing insight, mentorship, and network support. Their contributions will assist in identifying opportunities, guiding early-stage projects, and co-developing ecosystem initiatives. The partners' participation will emphasize ecosystem value creation over capital contribution, aligning fully with NEXPACE’s long-term ecosystem goals.
Reinforcing NXPC as the Backbone of MSU’s Ecosystem
The MapleStory Universe ecosystem is anchored by the NXPC token and MapleStory N. It empowers players through true asset ownership, decentralized marketplaces, and community-driven platforms known as Synergy Apps.
As part of its 'Infinite IP Playground' vision, the legacy MapleStory IP is continuously reimagined through player experimentation and builder creativity. At its core is Metaplay, a concept that allows ecosystem participants direct access to core game narratives, such as item enhancement and trading across web and mobile interfaces. This enables seamless participation and cross-IP innovation.
Beyond vertical expansion around MapleStory N, the ecosystem also encourages the community to explore entirely new ways of experiencing the MapleStory IP. This unlocks new forms of play and interactions that extend beyond traditional boundaries.
“The Ecosystem Fund will play a pivotal role in anchoring MSU’s ongoing expansion initiatives to herald the next phase of the next-generation IP ecosystem,” Sunyoung Hwang added. “By combining gaming, digital finance, and AI under one collaborative umbrella, we’re setting new standards for what a sustainable Web3 universe can achieve.”
This milestone exemplifies NEXPACE’s long-term commitment to evolving the MapleStory Universe into a dynamic, player-driven economy. This is an economy where gaming, technology, and creativity converge to define the next generation of digital entertainment.
About NEXPACE
NEXPACE, an innovative blockchain company based in Abu Dhabi, pioneers an IP-expansion initiative powered by blockchain technology and NFTs to build a community-driven ecosystem. With a mission to redefine interactive entertainment, NEXPACE creates a vibrant space for exploring, sharing, and engaging with diverse content and gameplay crafted by community members.
At the heart of NEXPACE’s ecosystem are principles of transparency, security, and trust. These principles empower creators to freely share their ideas and enable users to enjoy immersive experiences. By fostering a culture of creative expression, NEXPACE envisions a secure, collaborative environment that unites ecosystem participants in a thriving digital community.
Contact Information
Wachsman
maplestoryuniverse@wachsman.com