Input Output Proposes $38.9M Funding for Cardano’s Future
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Input Output (IO), the team behind the Cardano blockchain, has put forth a series of funding proposals aimed at enhancing its platform, totaling $38.9 million. This figure marks a significant decrease from the previous year’s request of $97.5 million, as the organization moves toward a more self-sufficient operational model.
The nine proposals submitted focus on advancing two critical areas: decentralization and scalability. A thorough examination of over 25 initiatives led to these final recommendations, which aim to further develop ongoing projects while also empowering community involvement in governance.
Among the most notable projects is the Leios upgrade, expected to boost Cardano’s Layer 1 throughput significantly. With a target of achieving over 1,000 transactions per second, the Leios initiative is slated to deploy its testnet by June 2026, with the mainnet rollout anticipated by the end of the year.
Additionally, IO is working on UTXO HD, designed to optimize node functionality, allowing them to run efficiently on standard residential hardware. Both upgrades are considered vital components of Cardano’s long-term performance enhancement strategy.
In a parallel endeavor, IO is supporting Pogun, a Bitcoin decentralized finance (DeFi) tool. Pogun aims to create a comprehensive DeFi engine tailored for the Cardano network, featuring a non-margin credit market and a streamlined Bitcoin bridge. The mainnet launch for this credit market is expected in the second quarter of 2026.
Further developments included in the proposals encompass optimizations for Plutus scripts, aiming for a reduction in preparation overhead, along with enhancements to Layer 2 scalability via partnerships with Hydra and Midgard Labs. IO is also advancing formal verification through the High Assurance consortium and upgrading the Blockfrost API to accommodate increased throughput from Leios.
The slate also consists of several protocol upgrades: CIP-159 introduces native micro-fee support, CPS-23 enables a multi-asset on-chain treasury, and Babel Fees allow transaction fees to be paid using stablecoins without the need for holding ADA tokens.
Collaboration with external teams such as VacuumLabs and Midgard Labs enhances the credibility and execution capability of these proposals. The leadership at IO aims to ensure that all funding initiatives directly support ecosystem growth and community interests.
The proposals will undergo evaluation by Cardano’s governance body, Intersect, where delegate representatives (DReps) are tasked with voting on the funding until May 24, 2026. The team has committed to transparency regarding the decision-making process, underscoring fiscal responsibility in managing community funds.
In a recent statement, Jeff Watson, head of technology within the Cardano Business Unit, expressed confidence in IO’s ability to respond swiftly to the evolving needs of the ecosystem. The organization remains dedicated to enhancing utility and user experience as it navigates its ambitious roadmap.
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