The blockchain infrastructure project TAC has secured $11.5 million in total funding to connect Ethereum-based decentralized applications (dApps) with Telegram’s massive user base. This strategic move aims to embed DeFi services directly into the messaging platform’s ecosystem through EVM-compatible smart contracts and native TON blockchain integration.
Hack VC led a $5 million strategic round following an earlier $6.5 million seed investment, according to funding disclosures. The capital injection comes as developers seek to tap into Telegram’s 1 billion+ active users through mini-apps and bot interfaces.
TAC’s architecture enables Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility while maintaining direct access to Telegram’s ecosystem through what developers call a “TON-Adapter.” This technical bridge allows existing dApps to operate within Telegram without code modifications.
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The TAC Infrastructure Solution
At its core, TAC functions as a Layer 1 blockchain combining EVM compatibility with Cosmos SDK modularity. Key features include:
- TON-Adapter for seamless Telegram integration
- EVM execution environment for existing dApps
- Cross-chain asset transfers between Ethereum and TON networks
The platform’s first use cases include embedded lending markets and swap aggregators within gaming and social apps. Developers can monetize through transaction fees while users access DeFi services without leaving Telegram.
Telegram’s Web3 Evolution
Messaging giant Telegram has become an unlikely hub for crypto innovation since launching its Telegram Open Network (TON) blockchain in 2018. Recent developments include:
- 950 million monthly active users (Q1 2025)
- 3 million daily active crypto wallet users on TON
- 500+ Telegram Mini Apps (TMAs) with Web3 integrations
TAC’s funding coincides with Telegram’s push to monetize its ecosystem through transaction revenue sharing. The platform takes 30% of in-app purchase fees from TMAs, creating aligned incentives for developers.
Investor Confidence in SocialFi
Hack VC’s participation signals growing institutional interest in social media-based DeFi solutions. The venture firm previously backed Web3 projects like Aleo and EigenLayer before leading TAC’s strategic round.
“Telegram’s user base represents the largest untapped market in Web3,” said Hack VC managing partner Ed Roman. “TAC’s technical stack finally makes mass adoption through familiar social interfaces achievable.”
Other investors include former Coinbase executives and founders of top Telegram bot projects. The funding will expand TAC’s engineering team and developer grant programs.
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Market Impact and Analysis
The integration could significantly boost DeFi adoption metrics:
- Current Telegram DeFi TVL: $120 million
- Projected 2026 TVL with TAC integration: $2.1 billion
- Potential user conversion rate: 4-7% of Telegram’s base
TON token prices remain stable at $7.82 despite the announcement, while Ethereum continues trading at $3,411. Analysts suggest market impact may manifest gradually as integration progresses.
- EVM
- Ethereum Virtual Machine – The runtime environment for executing smart contracts on Ethereum-compatible blockchains.
- Layer 1
- Base blockchain protocol that operates independently using its own consensus mechanism and network architecture.
- TON
- Telegram Open Network – A high-performance blockchain originally developed by Telegram before transitioning to community governance.
- TMA
- Telegram Mini Apps – Lightweight web applications that operate within the Telegram messaging interface.
