top of page
Writer's pictureJean D

Dawn, Solana-based DePIN Decentralized Broadband, Raises $2.5M from VanEck

VanEck

December 16, 2024


VanEck, through its Digital Assets Alpha and VanEck Ventures funds, has made a strategic investment in Dawn, a decentralized protocol designed to reshape internet infrastructure. The investment highlights Dawn's effort to address longstanding inefficiencies within the internet service provider (ISP) market, where monopolistic structures often lead to high consumer costs.


Dawn operates by enabling users to participate in a decentralized broadband network. This model disrupts traditional ISPs by replacing expensive fiber infrastructure with wireless technology, utilizing the 6GHz and 60GHz radio spectrums. The approach allows Dawn to offer internet services at significantly lower costs—$10-$15 per home, compared to the $750-$1,100 typically required for traditional fiber networks. The company has already connected 10,000 homes across 10 states, with plans to extend its reach to 1.5 million homes in New York City through its first implementation partner, Andrena.


The project is led by Neil Chatterjee, an engineer from Princeton, who envisions a system where consumers not only gain access to more affordable internet but also take ownership in the infrastructure itself. This initiative contrasts with major ISPs like Verizon and Comcast, aiming to democratize access and introduce new economic incentives for users. Dawn’s model allows for faster scalability through a community-driven approach, positioning it as a potential competitor to established providers.


This investment from VanEck provides Dawn with the resources needed to expand its network and further challenge traditional broadband models. As the company grows, it plans to continue developing its network, focusing on both user accessibility and incentivized network expansion.


About Dawn

Dawn is a decentralized protocol that enables community-driven broadband networks. By utilizing wireless technology, Dawn reduces the costs associated with traditional fiber networks, offering affordable internet access to consumers. The protocol encourages user participation in building and maintaining the network, contributing to its rapid scalability.


Website: https://www.dawninternet.com/ X: @dawninternet

About Investor VanEck VanEck is a global investment management firm focused on innovative asset classes, including digital assets and blockchain technologies. The firm’s funds, Digital Assets Alpha and VanEck Ventures, target investments in emerging technologies that have the potential to transform traditional industries.

Location: New York City Website: https://www.vaneck.com/us/en/


A central focus of investor activity in the cryptocurrency space is the evaluation of new crypto projects to invest in, particularly those with huge potential. This blog provides insight into what new ventures are benefiting from venture capital support (VC funding in crypto). These new crypto projects, funded by professional investors, can dictate the next narrative in crypto and the next big crypto movers.


Comments


bottom of page