New proposal aims to tie ZK token value directly to network revenue, sustainability, and long-term ecosystem growth.
The ZKsync ecosystem may soon undergo a significant transformation as co-founder Alex Gluchowski proposes a revamp of its governance token to introduce real economic utility and onchain value capture. The initiative seeks to align token usage with network performance, ensuring that value generated within the ZKsync ecosystem directly supports its sustainability and decentralization.
ZK Token to Gain Economic Utility
In a recent community forum post, Gluchowski explained that the current governance-focused token model served its purpose during ZKsync’s early development phase. However, as the network now hosts multiple interconnected zero-knowledge (ZK) chains, it needs a token that reflects this maturity.
“The goal is to align usage with value, make decentralization economically sustainable, and ensure the network captures a meaningful share of the economic benefits it creates,” Gluchowski stated.
The updated model would allow the ZK token to derive value from protocol-native fees and enterprise licensing agreements — both critical steps in creating a self-reinforcing economic loop that supports continuous innovation.
Revenue-Linked Tokenomics and Ecosystem Growth
Under the new proposal, the restructured tokenomics would tie the token’s value to revenue streams from interoperability fees, settlement functions, and enterprise software usage. This framework ensures that enterprises utilizing community-built infrastructure return value to the ecosystem.
“When capabilities are funded by the ecosystem, it is reasonable that their use by enterprise participants returns value to the ecosystem,” Gluchowski noted.
All collected revenue would be directed into a governance-controlled system, funding market buybacks, staking rewards, token burns, and public goods development — reinforcing decentralization and independence.
Path Toward Sustainable Decentralization
The proposal emphasizes that economic sustainability is essential for decentralization. Rather than relying on centralized funding, ZKsync aims to empower its community through a durable financial model that continually reinvests in security, innovation, and infrastructure.
Although the timeline for implementation remains unclear, community discussions around the “ZKnomics” roadmap highlight growing interest in creating a long-term, revenue-driven token model for the ecosystem’s future.
The proposed changes mark a pivotal moment for ZKsync — transforming its token from governance-only to an asset with tangible economic purpose and sustainable network impact.
Disclaimer
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