Top Zero-Knowledge Proof Projects to watch in 2023

Paulina Lewandowska

19 Apr 2023
Top Zero-Knowledge Proof Projects to watch in 2023

When it comes to blockchain technology, keeping privacy while verifying data is a challenge. However, with the help of zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) cryptography, one party can prove a statement true to another party without revealing any additional information. In the blockchain space, ZKP projects have gained significant attention in recent years for their ability to offer a solution to this challenge.

As we approach 2023, there are four top zero-knowledge proof projects that are worth keeping an eye on.

Zero-knowledge proof easy explanation in one minute

But first let's start with the quick introduction to topic.

Zero-knowledge proof is a way of proving the validity of statement without revealing the statement itself. To understand this better, imagine that...

That's what a zero-knowledge proof does in computer security, it proves something is true without revealing any secrets.

Top Zero-Knowledge Proof Projects to watch in 2023

Miden

Miden, a decentralized platform utilizing zero-knowledge proof, prioritizes user privacy and security for conducting business transactions. The platform boasts a unique privacy protocol that allows users to verify transactions without disclosing personal information. With a focus on user privacy and security, Miden provides a reliable and secure platform for conducting business. Additionally, its high level of scalability enables it to support large-scale enterprise applications, making it an excellent choice for users searching for a secure platform. Notably, Miden is among the leading zero-knowledge proof projects in 2023.

Polygon Zero

polygon.technology.com

Polygon Zero, a blockchain platform focused on maintaining privacy, utilizes zero-knowledge proof projects in 2023 to ensure secure and anonymous transactions. It aims to tackle the hindrances of conventional blockchains such as low throughput and slow transaction speeds. Unique privacy-focused features of Polygon Zero safeguard user data while facilitating efficient transactions. This revolutionary approach is especially beneficial for industries that demand high levels of security and privacy in transactions.

Polygon Zero's team has been actively improving the infrastructure and expanding the user base in terms of development progress. In fact, the platform has recently announced a strategic partnership with Polkadex, a decentralized exchange, enabling cross-chain transactions and providing liquidity. This prepares Polygon Zero for zero-knowledge proof projects in 2023, while showcasing its interoperability with other blockchain networks.

Polygon Hermez

Polygon Hermez, a scalable open-source zk-rollup, is set to become a key player in the blockchain industry in 2023 with its focus on scalability, interoperability, and security. It utilizes zero-knowledge proof to provide efficient and secure transactions on the Ethereum network, compressing multiple transactions into a single transaction to reduce gas fees and increase transaction throughput. With its interoperability features, Polygon Hermez enables cross-chain transactions and easy migration between blockchains, making it a viable solution for businesses looking to launch their own blockchain projects.

Metis

Metis, being a platform that utilizes zero-knowledge proof, offers privacy and scalability to businesses and individuals on the internet. It aims to solve the scalability challenge in the blockchain industry by providing an off-chain solution with the same level of security as on-chain transactions, particularly in zero-knowledge proof projects in 2023. The platform's architecture is designed to support large-scale enterprise applications with customizable templates, making it easy for developers to create decentralized applications (dApps) with minimal effort. Metis also offers tools for creating and launching token economies, facilitating crowdfunding campaigns, and managing communities, making it an all-in-one solution for businesses looking to launch their own blockchain projects. With its focus on privacy, scalability, and ease of use, Metis is definitely a platform to watch in 2023 in zero-knowledge proof projects.

Conclusion

In the realm of zero-knowledge proof technology, these four projects from 2023 exemplify groundbreaking advances. ZKP application in these projects addresses some of the most pressing issues in the blockchain sector, including scalability, privacy, and security. The implications for the industry are vast, as this new layer of privacy and security will significantly benefit both individuals and businesses online.

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Blockchain for Creators: Secure and Sustainable Infrastructure

Miłosz Mach

07 Nov 2025
Blockchain for Creators: Secure and Sustainable Infrastructure

In today’s digital creative space, where the lines between art and technology are constantly blurring, projects like MARMALADE mark the beginning of a new era - one where creators can protect their work and maintain ownership through blockchain technology.

For Nextrope, being part of MARMALADE goes far beyond implementing features like screenshot blocking or digital watermarking. It’s about building trust infrastructure - systems that empower creators to thrive in the digital world safely and sustainably.

A new kind of blockchain challenge

Cultural and educational projects come with a completely different set of challenges than typical DeFi systems. Here, the focus isn’t on returns or complex smart contracts - it’s on people: artists, illustrators, educators.

That’s why our biggest task was to design secure yet intuitive infrastructure - lightweight, energy-efficient, and accessible for non-technical users exploring Web3 for the first time.

“Our mission wasn’t to build another financial protocol. It was to create a layer of trust for digital creators.”
— Nextrope Team

Security that stays invisible

The best security is the kind you don’t notice.
Within MARMALADE, we focused on making creators' protection seamless:

  • Screenshot blocking safeguards artworks viewed in browsers.
  • Dynamic watermarking helps identify unauthorized copies.
  • Blockchain registry ensures every proof of ownership remains transparent and immutable

“Creators shouldn’t have to think about encryption or private keys - our job is to make security invisible.”

Sustainability by design

MARMALADE also answers a bigger question - how to innovate responsibly.
Nextrope’s infrastructure relies on low-emission blockchain networks and modular architecture that can easily be adapted for other creative or cultural initiatives.

This means the technology built here can support not only artists but also institutions, universities, and educators seeking to integrate blockchain in meaningful ways.

Beyond technology

For Nextrope, MARMALADE is more than a project — it’s proof that blockchain can empower culture and creators, not just finance. By building tools for digital artists, we’re helping them protect their creativity and discover how technology can amplify human expression.

Plasma blockchain. Architecture, Key Features & Why It Matters

Miłosz Mach

21 Oct 2025
Plasma blockchain. Architecture, Key Features & Why It Matters

What is Plasma?

Plasma is a Layer-1 blockchain built specifically for stablecoin infrastructure combining Bitcoin-level security with EVM compatibility and ultra-low fees for stablecoin transfers.

Why Plasma Blockchain Was Created?

Existing blockchains (Ethereum, L2s, etc.) weren’t originally designed around stablecoin payments at scale. As stablecoins grow, issues like congestion, gas cost, latency, and interoperability become constraints. Plasma addresses these by being purpose-built for stablecoin transfers, offering features not found elsewhere.

  • Zero-fee transfers (especially for USDT)
  • Custom gas tokens (separate from XPL, to reduce friction)
  • Trust-minimized Bitcoin bridge (to allow BTC collateral use)
  • Full EVM compatibility smart contracts can work with minimal modifications

Plasma’s Architecture & Core Mechanisms

EVM Compatibility + Smart Contracts

Developers familiar with Ethereum tooling (Solidity, Hardhat, etc.) can deploy contracts on Plasma with limited changes making it easy to port existing dApps or DeFi, similar to other EVM-compatible infrastructures discussed in the article „The Ultimate Web3 Backend Guide: Supercharge dApps with APIs".

Gas Model & Token Mechanism

Instead of forcing users always to hold XPL for gas, Plasma supports custom gas tokens. For stablecoin-native flows (e.g. USDT transfers), there is often zero fee usage, lowering UX friction.

Bitcoin Bridge & Collateral

Plasma supports a Bitcoin bridge that lets BTC become collateral inside smart contracts (like pBTC). This bridges the security of Bitcoin with DeFi use cases within Plasma.
This makes Plasma a “Bitcoin-secured blockchain for stablecoins".

Security & Finality

Plasma emphasizes finality and security, tuned to payment workloads. Its consensus and architecture aim for strong protection against reorgs and double spends while maintaining high throughput.
The network launched mainnet beta holding over $2B in stablecoin liquidity shortly after opening.

Plasma Blockchain vs Alternatives: What Makes It Stand Out?

FeaturePlasma (XPL)Other L1 / L2
Stablecoin native designusually second-class
Zero fees for stablecoin transfersrare, or subsidized
BTC bridge (collateral)only some chains
EVM compatibilityyes in many, but with trade-offs
High liquidity early✅ (>$2B TVL)many chains struggle to bootstrap

These distinctions make Plasma especially compelling for institutions, stablecoin issuers, and DeFi innovators looking for scalable, low-cost, secure payments infrastructure.

Use Cases: What You Can Build with Plasma Blockchain

  • Stablecoin native vaults / money markets
  • Payment rails & cross-border settlement
  • Treasury and cash management flows
  • Bridged BTC-backed stablecoin services
  • DeFi primitives (DEX, staking, yield aggregation) optimized for stablecoins

If you’re building any product reliant on stablecoin transfers or needing strong collateral backing from BTC, Plasma offers a compelling infrastructure foundation.

Get Started with Plasma Blockchain: Key Steps & Considerations

  1. Smart contract migration: assess if existing contracts can port with minimal changes.
  2. Gas token planning: decide whether to use USDT, separate gas tokens, or hybrid models.
  3. Security & audit: focus on bridge logic, reentrancy, oracle risks.
  4. Liquidity onboarding & market making: bootstrap stablecoin liquidity, incentives.
  5. Regulation & compliance: stablecoin issuance may attract legal scrutiny.
  6. Deploy MVP & scale: iterate fast, measure gas, slippage, UX, security.