How Catalyst Is Aiming to Be The altVM Interop Hub

The biggest question mark we've had for altVM ecosystems is the obstacles for new users to overcome (wallets) and liquidity (bridging) that would hold them back from achieving their potential.

Introducing: Catalyst.

Catalyst is reshaping this idea connect by building a bridge ecosystem with a specialized focus on alt VMs—an area that’s been widely overlooked in the space.

In our recent conversation, Catalyst co-founder Jim took us through the logic behind this bold pivot. Starting with Catalyst’s core mission, Jim explains why altVMs need dedicated solutions, where Ethereum-based bridges just don’t go far enough. While the EVM world already has plenty of support with projects like LayerZero, Catalyst recognized a key unmet need: interoperability for emerging blockchains that don’t fit the Ethereum mold.

Jim broke down Catalyst’s three-layer approach to bridging: using messaging protocols for foundational connections, Catalyst's own liquidity layer for efficient asset movement, and aggregators to simplify user experiences across various chains.

The goal?

To serve the unique demands of alt VMs like Move, SVM, and other rollups, without forcing users into one ecosystem. What really sets Catalyst's vision apart is their focus on “access” as the next frontier for bridging, enabling users to tap into unique networks without the complexities of existing infrastructures.

Plus, with the rise of AI-driven onchain interactions, Catalyst is positioning itself as a bridge ready for high-frequency, secure transactions—exactly what altVMs are built to handle.

For our DeFi builders and developers, this is an insightful dive into a new era of onchain connectivity for what we believe is the next primary trend in the modular ecosystem.

Let’s explore how Catalyst’s vision is moving the bridge ecosystem beyond Ethereum compatibility and into a more expansive, adaptable framework for the future.