Story (IP), launched in August 2024, is the native token of the Story Protocol, a purpose-built Layer 1 blockchain designed to tokenize and manage intellectual property (IP) on-chain. Story enables creators to register, license, and monetize IP—such as ideas, images, songs, AI models, or NFTs—with programmable usage terms, attribution, and royalties embedded in the blockchain. IP powers governance, staking, and transaction fees.

Key Features

  • IP Tokenization: Converts any IP into programmable assets, enabling transparent licensing and royalty distribution.
  • EVM Compatibility: Supports Ethereum-based tools, facilitating dApp development for IP management.
  • AI Integration: Enhances creator tools with AI, powering apps like MusicByVirtuals and EmergenceVerse.
  • Ecosystem: Includes high-profile IPs from Netflix, crypto culture, and a Surreal Buildathon for developer onboarding.

IP Token

  • Purpose: Used for governance, staking, transaction fees, and incentivizing IP registration.
  • Supply: Circulating supply of ~290 million IP, with a max supply of 1 billion.
  • Contract Address: 0x0c8aF56dA0b53E3bF6c5A6F744fC0C2E16eA7D67 (Ethereum, addable to MetaMask), tradeable via www.coingecko.com/en/coins/story.

Who Are the Founders of Story?

Story was co-founded by Jason Zhao, an open-source AI and decentralization advocate, alongside a team backed by $140 million from investors like Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), who led three funding rounds. The Story Foundation governs the protocol, with IP holders driving decentralized decision-making.

What Makes Story Unique?

IP and Story Protocol stand out for their IP-focused blockchain:

  • Programmable IP: Embeds licensing terms and royalties on-chain, streamlining creator monetization for a $61T asset class.
  • Creator Tools: Offers bulk registration, search, and AI-driven apps like MusicByVirtuals, with Netflix IPs registered.
  • Interoperability: Enables IP assets to be used across platforms, enhancing blockchain adoption in creative industries.
  • Community Growth: Surreal Buildathon and developer grants foster ecosystem expansion, with 100K+ registered IPs.

IP Network Upgrades (2025)

  • IP Portal Upgrade (June 2025): Enhanced onboarding with bulk registration and search, boosting creator adoption.
  • Pectra Hard Fork Integration (June 2025): Upgraded Geth-based execution for EVM compatibility, ensuring scalability.
  • Coinbase Listing (May 2025): Added IP to Coinbase, driving a 41% volume spike to $39.3M.

How Is IP Secured?

IP and the Story Protocol are secured through:

  • PoS Consensus: Validators stake IP to secure the network, with slashing for misbehavior.
  • EVM Security: Inherits Ethereum’s robust smart contract standards.
  • Governance: IP holders vote on protocol upgrades and policies.
  • Audits: Regular smart contract audits ensure IP asset and dApp safety.

Conclusion

Story (IP) powers a pioneering L1 blockchain for programmable intellectual property, enabling creators to tokenize and monetize assets with transparency. Its AI tools, Netflix partnerships, and EVM compatibility position it as an IP management leader.