Hedera’s growth trajectory continues to be bolstered by strategic partnerships and collaborative innovations. In a significant development, the Hedera Council has announced the Global Blockchain Business Council (GBBC) as its inaugural Strategic Partner. This alliance aims to enhance global engagement within the Hedera ecosystem and reflects a mutual commitment to creating reliable and practical web3 solutions.
Founded in 2017 in Davos, GBBC has established itself as the largest nonprofit industry association serving the blockchain and emerging technology sectors. With more than 500 institutional members and a network of representatives across 124 jurisdictions, GBBC is dedicated to promoting the responsible adoption of blockchain technology. Their mission focuses on uniting business leaders, regulators, and innovators to foster a safer, more efficient digital economy.
Shyam Nagarajan, Chief Partnerships Officer at Hashgraph, emphasized the importance of this partnership, noting, “GBBC has built one of the most respected global networks for blockchain policy and standards. As our first Strategic Partner, they strengthen the Council’s ability to engage governments, enterprises, and industry bodies worldwide.” He added that this collaboration is designed to ensure the Hedera ecosystem fosters growth that is trusted and sustainable for the long term.
Hedera operates under the governance of a diverse group of global institutions that validate transactions and guide the network’s strategic direction, prioritizing transparency and trust at its core. GBBC’s expertise aligns well with Hedera’s objectives, particularly in facilitating a groundwork for web3 adoption. The collaboration aims to build and maintain clarity and trust, which are critical for institutional adoption.
Key contributions from GBBC include:
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Global Policy and Regulatory Expertise: GBBC’s direct engagement with public and private sector leaders helps shape effective blockchain policy worldwide. This capability aids the Hedera ecosystem in advancing with agility, especially in sectors where regulatory clarity is critical.
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Standards-First Approach: GBBC spearheads significant initiatives like the Global Standards Mapping Initiative and the InterWork Alliance, promoting common language and best practices across the blockchain landscape. This focus on interoperability will support Hedera’s goals for responsible growth and consistent user trust.
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User Engagement through Global Events: GBBC is recognized for organizing influential events that facilitate dialogue between industry stakeholders and government representatives. This convening power will provide Hedera Council members and partners with opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing, shaping the direction of their collective efforts.
The partnership between Hedera and GBBC builds upon existing collaborations, like the co-hosted “Sips and Standards” event at the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery, which brought together leaders from various sectors to discuss responsible web3 adoption.
Sandra Ro, CEO of GBBC, remarked, “GBBC and Hedera Council share common values that meaningful adoption requires trusted standards and coordinated public-private collaboration. By aligning our efforts across sectors, we continue to support responsible innovation and scaling of blockchain infrastructure.” She expressed honor in joining the Strategic Partner Program, which represents a pivotal milestone for both organizations as they aim for collaborative growth within the Hedera ecosystem.
The creation of the Strategic Partner category highlights Hedera Council’s commitment to expanding participation within its ecosystem. With GBBC on board as the first Strategic Partner, new avenues for co-creation and global engagement have emerged, promising to strengthen the trust foundation necessary for the evolving digital economy. Both organizations are enthusiastic about future collaborative opportunities, including significant civic events like America 250 in 2026, as they work together to foster responsible innovation rooted in real-world needs.
