Ripple has launched a new blockchain initiative with UC Berkeley to support institutional use of the XRP Ledger.
The collaboration, known as the Digital Asset Xcelerator (UDAX), follows a successful six-week pilot at the university. Furthermore, the project aims to support blockchain startups and expand the practicality for XRP.
Ripple and UC Berkeley Launch UDAX Program
Ripple has officially launched the UDAX program with UC Berkeley through its University Blockchain Research Initiative (UBRI).
The accelerator supports early-stage blockchain startups by providing technical guidance, financing options and access to Ripple’s network. It focuses on projects that build 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 maturity.
Ripple opened the program with a summit in Berkeley, where founders were introduced to the XRP Ledger tools and use cases. The goal was to help teams understand the potential of the XRPL in the real financial world.
According to Ripple, the partnership combines industry expertise with academic research to create a strong foundation for blockchain innovation. The initiative highlights Ripple’s focus on institutional adoption by strengthening new builders in the blockchain space.
Startups scale projects with XRP Ledger
During the pilot, several startups used it XRP ledger to improve 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 aimed at African freelancers.
Blockroll CEO Sadiq Isiaka explained that their new product will help users in Sub-Saharan Africa arrange money transfers from the US faster.
He also said it gives them access to financial instruments such as stablecoin yields and tokenized stocks. These use cases demonstrate how the XRPL can support institutional-level products.
The accelerator offers 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.
Related literature: XRP Whale Inflows To Binance Hit Lows In 2 Years – What’s Next?
XRP Ledger Adoption Expands with New Features
The XRP ledger has continued to gain popularity as more projects expand on the network.
Axiom is preparing to launch a prediction market on the XRPL, which will allow users to trade with RLUSD and XRP. This adds a new general ledger utility 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 allows multiple transfers to be grouped and processed as one, allowing businesses to manage large transaction volumes more efficiently.
Robert Kiuru, COO of XRPL Labs, confirmed that batch transactions are being worked on.
The feature is expected to make it easier for developers to create apps with on-chain revenue systems. As these upgrades are implemented, the use of the XRPL in institutional financing will increase.
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