NEXPACE, Web3 IP-expansion initiative behind MapleStory Universe (MSU), announced the launch of the Ecosystem Fund with a plan to invest up to US$50 million to accelerate the long-term growth of both MSU and the broader NEXPACE ecosystem. The Ecosystem Fund is envisioned to underscore NEXPACE’s mission to build an open, self-sustaining Web3 platform that fuels the next evolution of gaming experiences. Beyond mass adoption, it aims to lay the financial rails and builder foundation for communities to create new digital worlds where play, creativity, and economy converge together within the ecosystem.
Nexpace, an affiliate of Nexon—a global leader in the production, development, and operation of online games—plans to invest in adjacent sectors that strengthen ecosystem fundamentals, including financial infrastructure, AI, tokenized real-world assets (RWAs), and the builder economy. The Ecosystem Fund’s vision extends beyond the game to address the operational and structural constraints that have limited traditional siloed blockchain game ecosystems. Any fund to be deployed will be determined after 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 invest in strengthening ecosystem footholds across global blockchain and entertainment markets, paving the way for pilot projects and expansion efforts.
To support this process, NEXPACE has entered into Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with a curated group of strategic advisory partners spanning venture, infrastructure, and research with a shared vision of building a sustainable, fundamentals-driven Web3 ecosystem. These include Altos Ventures, Chainlink Labs, GSR and Hashed Ventures.
The partners will engage as strategic collaborators, providing insight, mentorship, and network support to help identify opportunities, guide early-stage projects, and co-develop ecosystem initiatives. Their participation will emphasize ecosystem value creation over capital contribution, fully aligning with NEXPACE’s long-term ecosystem goals.
Reinforcing NXPC as the Backbone of MSU’s Ecosystem
Anchored by the NXPC token and MapleStory N, the MapleStory Universe ecosystem 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. At its core is Metaplay, a concept that allows ecosystem participants direct access to core game narratives, such as item enhancement and trading across web and mobile interfaces. This enables seamless participation and cross-IP innovation. Beyond vertical expansion around MapleStory N, the ecosystem also encourages the community to explore entirely new ways of experiencing the MapleStory IP, unlocking new forms of play and interactions that go beyond the 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 exemplifies NEXPACE’s long-term commitment to evolving the MapleStory Universe into a dynamic, player-driven economy. One where gaming, technology and creativity converge to define the next generation of digital entertainment.