A blockchain is a decentralized, shared ledger that records transactions and tracks assets in a business network. The goal of a blockchain is to allow digital information to be distributed and recorded, but not edited. Blockchain platforms create and manage an array of Web3 functions, including NFTs. Blockchains make the initiation and execution of transactions, such as cryptocurrencies like Tether and BNB, as well as the creation of smart contracts, possible. 

Major blockchain platforms include Avalanche, Cardano and Chainalysis KYT. Today, there are over 83 million bitcoin block explorer blockchain.com wallet users worldwide. Ten percent of the global population owns cryptocurrencies. Sixteen percent of Americans have invested in cryptocurrency. 

If you’re a crypto enthusiast, you’re not going to want to miss this year’s Benzinga Future of Crypto conference. The conference will be held at the Pier Sixty in New York City and will feature such speakers as Morgan Krupetsky, director of BD for institutions and capital markets at Ava Labs; Tom Pageler, CEO of Prime Trust; and Alex Salnikov.

The 2022 Future of Crypto Conference will take place at 8 a.m. on Dec. 7, 2022. 

It's longer just big states like New York and California — Connecticut is now coming online as a hotspot for cryptocurrencies and the blockchains that carry them. Today’s blockchains increase efficiency, decrease transaction costs and tighten security.

Here are five great blockchain startups to watch in Connecticut.

Clave

Clave is an American tech company providing users with a Web3-enabled wallet to access simple, intuitive and secure solutions to traditional financial services. Such services include credit payments and transfers. Clave also provides a gateway to a new age of financial products based on blockchain technology. Founded in 2019, Clave is located in Greenwich, Connecticut.

MINDS

Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Milton, Connecticut, MINDS is an open source social network dedicated to Internet freedom. The MINDS' mission is to elevate global discourse through a freer internet. That means allowing for more free speech, privacy and community governance. MINDS is an open-source blockchain specializing in the crypto economy. 

Digital EGN

Digital ECN is a next-generation digital financial services company based in Greenwich, Connecticut. It is an electronic communication network that provides a secure, scalable and liquid ecosystem for various institutional players in the cryptocurrency and digital asset space. Digital ECN was founded in 2020.

Eka Software

Eka Software Solutions is a global leader in providing innovative, cloud solutions that unify a whole range of workflows from procurement to payments. Its platform-driven solutions help customers to overcome complex challenges and accelerate their digital journey environment. Eka was founded in 2004 in Norwalk, Connecticut.

Payrailz

RB Milestone Group is a public relations and communication services company founded in 2009 and based in Stamford, Connecticut. RB Milestone develops artificial intelligence and machine learning to help improve traditional client IR initiatives and maximize ROI.