JAN3 Raises $5M to Fuel Bitcoin Superapp AQUA

6:33 AM · Jan 4, 2025 – JAN3, a Bitcoin infrastructure company based in El Salvador, has announced the successful closing of a $5 million seed funding round. The investment will fuel the development and expansion of AQUA, JAN3's flagship Bitcoin and Liquid Network wallet designed for global accessibility.

The round was led by Fulgur Ventures, with significant participation from prominent investors including Grupo Salinas, Tether, Lightning Ventures, East Ventures, Plan B Fund, Bitcoin Opportunity Fund, and NYDIG. This diverse group of backers brings strategic expertise and resources to support JAN3's mission of accelerating hyperbitcoinization – the transition to a global Bitcoin standard.

AQUA: Bridging the Gap Between Bitcoin and Everyday Finance

AQUA is a non-custodial multi-layer Bitcoin wallet designed for seamless transactions and financial management. It leverages the Lightning Network and Liquid Network for fast and efficient transactions, while also supporting on-chain Bitcoin transactions for security and control. A key feature of AQUA is its native integration with Tether (USDt), the world's largest stablecoin, enabling users to spend in USDt while saving in Bitcoin. This dual functionality offers a practical solution for users in emerging markets, allowing them to maintain purchasing power while hedging against inflation.

Strategic Partnerships for Global Expansion

JAN3's selection of investors reflects a strategic focus on expanding its reach in Latin America and Asia. Grupo Salinas, a leading Latin American conglomerate with a strong focus on financial inclusion, brings extensive experience in serving underserved communities. East Ventures, a prominent investor in Southeast Asia, provides regional expertise and a deep understanding of the Asian market. Tether's involvement strengthens AQUA's ability to provide access to digital dollars, further enhancing its utility in emerging economies.

Building on Momentum: From Pre-Seed to Seed Round

This seed funding follows a successful pre-seed round of $620,000 in early 2023, demonstrating growing investor confidence in JAN3's vision. As part of the current financing, $1 million will be allocated to establish a Bitcoin Treasury for JAN3, consisting of 12 BTC. This commitment to Bitcoin further solidifies JAN3's belief in the long-term potential of the cryptocurrency.

Accelerating Development and Expanding Utility

The new funding will enable JAN3 to significantly expand its development and marketing efforts. In 2024, AQUA experienced rapid growth, processing over $11 million in swap volume in November alone. This momentum underscores the demand for user-friendly and practical Bitcoin solutions. The investment will be used to enhance AQUA's features and integrate additional marketplace functionalities, such as credit card support, loan options, and local on/off ramps.

A Vision for a Bitcoin-Powered Future

JAN3's ultimate goal is to empower individuals, businesses, and nation-states to participate in a Bitcoin-based financial system. By providing accessible and user-friendly tools like AQUA, JAN3 aims to onboard a billion people to Bitcoin. The company is also actively involved in advising nation-states on Bitcoin adoption strategies, further contributing to the growth of the Bitcoin ecosystem.

About JAN3:

JAN3 is a digital infrastructure company focused on expanding access to Bitcoin technology. Headquartered in El Salvador, JAN3 is committed to building the tools and solutions necessary for a hyperbitcoinized world.

About AQUA:

AQUA is a non-custodial Bitcoin and Liquid Network wallet developed by JAN3. It offers seamless swaps between Bitcoin layers, native Tether (USDt) integration, and a user-friendly interface designed for global accessibility.

About the Investors:

Fulgur Ventures: A venture capital firm focused on investing in early-stage companies building the future of finance.

Grupo Salinas: A group of dynamic, fast-growing, and technologically advanced companies deeply committed to creating: Economic Value - to improve the quality of life of our customers, families, and communities; Social Value - to contribute to building a more equitable, prosperous, and democratic society; and Environmental Value - by acting responsibly with the environment.