NEXPACE, the Web3 IP-expansion initiative behind MapleStory Universe (MSU), has announced the launch of its Ecosystem Fund, with plans to invest up to US$50 million. This initiative aims to accelerate the long-term growth of both MSU and the broader NEXPACE ecosystem, transforming it into a sustainable, interoperable Web3 environment. The fund is designed to underscore NEXPACE’s mission of building an open, self-sustaining Web3 platform that drives the next evolution of gaming experiences. Beyond mass adoption, it seeks to establish the financial infrastructure 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, intends to invest in adjacent sectors that bolster ecosystem fundamentals. These include financial infrastructure, AI, tokenized real-world assets (RWAs), and the builder economy. The Ecosystem Fund’s vision extends beyond gaming to address the operational and structural limitations that have historically constrained 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.”
Ecosystem Expansion: A Strategic, Collaboration-First Framework
The Ecosystem Fund will focus on strengthening ecosystem footholds across global blockchain and entertainment markets, facilitating pilot projects and expansion efforts. To support this objective, NEXPACE has established Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with a select group of strategic advisory partners. These partners, spanning venture capital, infrastructure, and research, share a vision for building a sustainable, fundamentals-driven Web3 ecosystem. Key partners include Altos Ventures, Chainlink Labs, GSR, and Hashed Ventures. These collaborators will provide insights, mentorship, and network support to identify opportunities, guide early-stage projects, and co-develop ecosystem initiatives. Their involvement will prioritize ecosystem value creation over capital contributions, aligning with NEXPACE’s long-term ecosystem objectives.
Reinforcing NXPC as the Backbone of MSU’s Ecosystem
The MapleStory Universe ecosystem, anchored by the NXPC token and MapleStory N, 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. Central to this is Metaplay, a concept that grants ecosystem participants direct access to core game narratives, such as item enhancement and trading, across web and mobile interfaces. This facilitates 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 MapleStory IP, unlocking novel forms of play and interactions that transcend 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 underscores NEXPACE’s long-term commitment to evolving the MapleStory Universe into a dynamic, player-driven 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, empowering creators to freely share their ideas and enabling 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.