Boundless Launches Incentivized Testnet

Boundless, a decentralized zero-knowledge (ZK) compute marketplace powered by RISC Zero, has launched its incentivized testnet, referred to as “Mainnet Beta,” on Base, Coinbase’s Ethereum layer-2 network.

With the incentivized testnet, developers can build and test applications as if the protocol is fully operational. The network has already gained support from significant players in the industry, including the Ethereum Foundation, Wormhole, and EigenLayer.

A decentralized marketplace for zero-knowledge compute connects those needing zero-knowledge proofs—like developers creating rollups, bridges, or privacy-preserving applications—with a distributed network of independent “ZK provers or miners” who generate and verify these proofs. This model allows anyone with suitable hardware to contribute computing power and be rewarded for their cryptographic efforts instead of relying on centralized entities.

Zero-knowledge (ZK) technology facilitates proof of transaction validity without disclosing sensitive information such as identities or amounts. ZK proofs are considered essential for the next generation of privacy-focused and scalable blockchain projects.

The network utilizes a Proof of Verifiable Work (PoVW) consensus mechanism. “PoVW is an open proving market where ZK miners, including institutions and individuals with high-performance GPUs, are rewarded for successful proof verification,” the team stated in a press release shared with CoinDesk. “Unlike traditional Proof of Work, miners earn rewards for verification within a ZK Virtual Machine, ensuring efficiency, fairness, and security.”

Participants in the incentivized testnet can earn early allocations of the upcoming $ZKC token, with an airdrop event planned for later this year. Rewards depend on the volume, speed, and complexity of the generated proofs.

The team also announced that the main net is anticipated in the third quarter of 2025, with the token launch occurring then as well.

“Boundless enhances blockchain scalability by enabling secure, cross-chain computing without duplicating tasks. This increases efficiency, bolsters security, and allows developers and miners to collaborate across diverse ecosystems,” stated Shiv Shankar, CEO of Boundless, in the release.

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