What is Cardano (ADA)

1. Project Introduction
Cardano is a decentralized, open-source public blockchain platform utilizing a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism. Built around its native token ADA, Cardano supports peer-to-peer transactions and smart contracts. Launched in September 2017 by Charles Hoskinson and Jeremy Wood, it was designed to solve critical blockchain challenges: scalability, interoperability, and sustainability.
Its PoS protocol, Ouroboros, is highly energy-efficient. Cardano features a layered architecture:
CSL (Cardano Settlement Layer) handles ADA transfers
CCL (Cardano Computation Layer) enables smart contracts and application logic
This design facilitates easier upgrades and modularity. Cardano supports diverse use cases, including DeFi, NFTs, payments, and gaming.
2. Team & Investment Info
Three main organizations maintain Cardano:
IOG (Input Output Global): Engineering and development, led by Charles Hoskinson
EMURGO: For-profit arm driving adoption and commercial partnerships
Cardano Foundation: Swiss-based non-profit focused on ecosystem growth
Key personnel:
Charles Hoskinson – Co-founder of Ethereum, IOG founder, ADA research/development lead
Jeremy Wood – Co-founder of IOG, former early Ethereum team member
Frederik Gregaard – CEO, Cardano Foundation
Giorgio Zinetti – CTO, Cardano Foundation
Funding:
No private rounds; raised ~$62 million via ICO.
3. Social Media URLs
X: https://x.com/Cardano
Telegram: https://t.me/Cardano
Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/cardano/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/CardanoCommunity
4. Token Info
Token Symbol: ADA
Max Supply: 45,000,000,000
Total Supply: 44,995,037,803.61
Token Type: Cardano Mainnet
Issuance/Burn Mechanism: Inflationary with a capped supply
Block Explorer: https://explorer.cardano.org/
Token Distribution:
ICO: 58%
Team: 11%
Staking rewards: 31%
5. Related Links
Official Website: https://cardano.org/
White Paper: https://docs.cardano.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardano-community/
Other Info: https://www.rootdata.com/Projects/detail/Cardano?k=NTA%3D