Ripple and UC Berkeley launch UDAX to boost institutional adoption of XRP Ledger after a successful six-week pilot program.
Ripple has launched a new blockchain initiative with UC Berkeley to support the institutional use of the XRP Ledger.
The collaboration, known as the Digital Asset Xcelerator (UDAX), follows a successful six-week pilot at the university. Besides, the project aims to support blockchain startups and expand real-world utility for XRP.
Ripple and UC Berkeley Launch UDAX Program
Ripple, through its University Blockchain Research Initiative (UBRI), has officially launched the UDAX program with UC Berkeley.
The accelerator supports early-stage blockchain startups by providing technical guidance, funding opportunities, and access to Ripple’s network. It focuses on projects building on the XRP Ledger.
Introducing the University Digital Asset Xcelerator (UDAX). 🎓@UCBerkeley and Ripple’s University Blockchain Research Initiative launched a pilot program to accelerate the transition from academic innovation to institutional XRP utility: https://t.co/KMyVjPvXT2
The UDAX – UC…
— Ripple (@Ripple) January 16, 2026
The pilot phase involved nine startups that developed ideas and tested them for market readiness.
Ripple opened the program with a summit in Berkeley, where founders were introduced to the XRP Ledger’s tools and use cases. The goal was to help teams understand the XRPL’s potential in real-world finance.
According to Ripple, the collaboration combines industry expertise with academic research to create a strong foundation for blockchain innovation. The initiative highlights Ripple’s focus on institutional adoption by empowering new builders in the blockchain space.
Startups Scale Projects Using XRP Ledger
During the pilot, several startups used the XRP Ledger to enhance their platforms.
CRX Digital Assets increased their tokenized volume from $39 million to $58 million using the accelerator. Blockroll also used the XRP Ledger to launch stablecoin-backed cards targeted at African freelancers.
Blockroll’s CEO, Sadiq Isiaka, explained that their new product helps users in Sub-Saharan Africa settle remittances from the U.S. faster.
He also said it gives them access to financial tools like stablecoin yields and tokenized stocks. These use cases demonstrate how the XRPL can support institutional-level products.
The accelerator provides a space for real-time development and testing of blockchain ideas. Ripple’s partnership with the university supports startups looking to build tools for the financial sector, especially in underserved regions.
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XRP Ledger Adoption Expands With New Features
The XRP Ledger has continued to gain traction as more projects build on its network.
Axiom is preparing to launch a prediction market on the XRPL, which will allow users to trade with RLUSD and XRP. This adds new utility for the ledger as it supports more financial applications.
Ripple recently introduced updates to improve network stability and help developers build scalable apps.
One of the upcoming features is batch transactions.
This feature would allow multiple transfers to be grouped and processed as one, which helps businesses manage large transaction volumes more efficiently.
Robert Kiuru, COO of XRPL Labs, confirmed that work on batch transactions is in progress.
The feature is expected to make it easier for developers to create apps with on-chain revenue systems. As these upgrades roll out, the XRPL’s use in institutional finance will grow.