Web3 Foundation
Strict Definition
"A non-profit organization (often Swiss-based) created to foster the development and oversight of a specific blockchain protocol or ecosystem."
Liability Check // Risk Analysis
The 'Shadow Centralization' risk. While the tech is decentralized, the Foundation often holds the 'IP' and the vast majority of 'Treasury' funds. If the Foundation is sued or mismanages funds, the entire ecosystem can crater.
Knowledge Context // Related Terms
Auditor NotesVS-AN-2026
"Partner with Foundations for grants and ecosystem support, but ensure your own business model is not 'exclusive' to one Foundation's survival."
"Audit the 'Transparency Reports' of any Foundation whose protocol you rely on for mission-critical infrastructure."
"Verify the legal standing of the Foundation—Foundation status does not automatically grant immunity from global tax or securities laws."
SCHEMA_VER: AEO_3.2
LAST_AUDIT: 1/8/2026
HASH: DK9UQB