Donut Labs raises $7M to launch first ‘agentic’ crypto browser

Donut Labs, a New York-based startup, secured $7 million in pre-seed funding to develop the world’s first “agentic” crypto browser. This innovative browser utilizes artificial intelligence to simplify user interaction with blockchain applications. The funding round was led by prominent investors Sequoia, Bitkraft, and HackVC, with participation from angel investors including Solana and other key players in the crypto ecosystem.

Donut, the browser itself, integrates a native cryptocurrency wallet and decentralized exchange, providing seamless access to decentralized networks and on-chain execution. Unlike traditional browsers, Donut’s AI algorithms interpret page context and user intent, autonomously executing blockchain operations. Founder and CEO Chris Zhu highlights a complete re-architecture of the browser, aiming for a “hyper-financialized” experience for AI agents. This contrasts sharply with the 30-year stagnation of traditional web browsers.

The browser offers a unified interface for various decentralized tools and crypto services, enhancing transaction security. Architecturally isolated signing environments and AI-powered risk screening protect each transaction while optimizing speed and cost. The AI translates complex blockchain data into plain English, assigning safety ratings for increased user transparency. Donut’s AI agents can execute various actions, including token trading, swapping, betting, and passive yield generation on digital assets.

While initial adoption is expected among crypto traders and DeFi users, the potential for mainstream adoption within the next decade is significant. Zhu predicts that Ethereum layer-2 networks will utilize agentic browsers to reduce settlement costs within five years. Mainstream browsers will likely integrate agentic capabilities or achieve interoperability with specialized agentic browsers as AI costs decrease. The complete merging of on-chain and off-chain environments will drive widespread adoption, transforming the agentic browser into a default internet access point.

Donut’s long-term vision includes support for payments, gaming, content creation, and social interaction, all within its crypto-native environment. Leveraging advancements in decentralized identity and confidential computing, the company aims to evolve the browser into a personal “crypto CFO” for everyday users.