YZi Labs and Certik Launch $1M Security Grant for Startup Incubation Program

Engineering Security Into the Startup Architecture

Web3 security provider Certik has partnered with venture capital firm YZI Labs to enhance the security framework for startups in the latter’s global accelerator. Known as the EASY Residency Incubation Program, the initiative is designed to support the top 1% of early-stage founders in Web3, artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology.

According to a media statement, the program targets ventures focused on long-term growth. As part of the partnership, Certik will provide a $1 million auditing grant to program participants, along with its Skynet Boosting and AI scanning services. YZI Labs, formerly known as Binance Labs, will connect incubated projects with Certik to help founders integrate advanced security practices into their development cycles.

Read more: YZi Labs Unveils $1 Billion Fund to Back BNB Ecosystem Founders

“Security is the foundation of long-term success, but for early-stage founders, it’s often a high-stakes distraction while they are still chasing product-market fit,” said Ella Zhang, head of YZI Labs. “Think of it like building a skyscraper: Founders should focus on the architecture and the vision, while CertiK acts as the structural engineers, ensuring the frame is earthquake-proof.”

Web3 security audits have evolved from a luxury to a critical mandate. By conducting rigorous code reviews and formal verification, these audits identify sophisticated vulnerabilities in smart contracts—such as reentrancy attacks and logic errors—before they can be exploited by malicious actors.

Promoting Long-Term Ecosystem Health

In an era where a single exploit can result in the loss of millions in total value locked, these security assessments serve as a vital safeguard for user assets. Beyond technical protection, a gold-standard audit functions as a “seal of approval,” providing the institutional-grade credibility required to secure top-tier partnerships and investor confidence.

Meanwhile, Certik co-founder and CEO Ronghui Gu said the collaboration will raise security standards across the incubation program.

“This is not only related to the growth of projects but also to the health and sustainability of the entire Web3 ecosystem,” Gu said.

The partnership reflects a broader industry shift from prioritizing speed to ensuring security, combining technical oversight and funding to establish a new benchmark for blockchain incubation.

FAQ 💡

• Who is involved? Web3 security firm Certik has partnered with YZI Labs, formerly Binance Labs, in a global accelerator.
• What is the program? The EASY Residency Incubation Program supports top early-stage founders in Web3, AI, and biotech.
• What does Certik provide? Certik offers a $1M auditing grant plus Skynet Boosting and AI scanning services to participants.
• Why does it matter? The partnership sets a new benchmark for startup security, boosting trust and investor confidence worldwide.