NEXPACE, the Web3 IP-expansion initiative behind MapleStory Universe (MSU), today announced the launch of the Ecosystem Fund with plans to deploy up to $50 million to fuel long-term growth for MSU and the broader NEXPACE ecosystem. The fund aims to build an open, self-sustaining Web3 platform that powers the next evolution of gaming experiences, laying financial rails and a builder foundation for communities to create new digital worlds.
Investment Focus: AI, RWAs, and Financial Infrastructure
As an affiliate of Nexon, NEXPACE plans to invest in adjacent sectors strengthening ecosystem fundamentals, including financial infrastructure, artificial intelligence, tokenized real-world assets (RWAs), and the builder economy. The fund's vision addresses operational and structural constraints that have limited traditional siloed blockchain game ecosystems. All capital deployment will go through internal project review and approval.
“This initiative reflects our belief that the future of gaming and interactive entertainment depends on real-world utility and sustainability,” said Sunyoung Hwang, CEO of NEXPACE. “The Ecosystem Fund will serve as a catalyst for the expansion we’ve already been driving beyond games, accelerating our vision of building a connected universe where digital finance, AI, and builder innovation form the foundation of a sustainable, player-driven economy.”
Strategic Partners: Altos Ventures, Chainlink Labs, GSR, Hashed
To support ecosystem development, NEXPACE has signed Memoranda of Understanding with a curated group of strategic advisory partners: Altos Ventures, Chainlink Labs, GSR, and Hashed Ventures. These firms will engage as strategic collaborators providing insight, mentorship, and network support to identify opportunities, guide early-stage projects, and co-develop initiatives. Participation emphasizes ecosystem value creation over capital contribution, aligned with NEXPACE’s long-term goals.
The MapleStory Universe ecosystem, anchored by the NXPC token and MapleStory N, empowers players through true asset ownership, decentralized marketplaces, and community-driven platforms called Synergy Apps. As part of the 'Infinite IP Playground' vision, the legacy MapleStory IP is continuously reimagined through player experimentation and builder creativity. The core Metaplay concept allows participants direct access to game narratives—such as item enhancement and trading—across web and mobile interfaces, enabling seamless participation and cross-IP innovation. Beyond vertical expansion around MapleStory N, the ecosystem encourages the community to explore entirely new ways of experiencing the IP.
“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 underscores NEXPACE’s long-term commitment to evolving MapleStory Universe into a dynamic, player-driven economy. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, NEXPACE is a blockchain company pioneering IP expansion through blockchain technology and NFTs, building a community-driven ecosystem based on transparency, security, and trust.