The Native project (https://www.gonative.cc/) is reimagining Bitcoin, often seen as "digital gold" for holding value, as a dynamic player in decentralized finance (DeFi). Unlike its limited role today, Native aims to let Bitcoin power DeFi apps—think lending or trading—while keeping its unmatched security. Built on the Sui blockchain, known for its speed and scalability, Native ensures Bitcoin can integrate seamlessly into DeFi with high performance and low costs. Using innovative tech like Zero Trust Protocols and nBTC, Native is making waves by bridging Bitcoin to Sui’s fast-growing ecosystem, attracting attention for its secure, user-controlled approach.  

What is Native?

Picture Native as a bridge, not just any bridge, but a super-secure one that connects Bitcoin to the broader crypto universe, especially DeFi. DeFi, or decentralized finance, is a world where you can lend, invest, trade, and earn interest on cryptocurrencies without banks or middlemen. The catch? Bitcoin has largely been left out of this party. Why? Because Bitcoin was built for security and simplicity, not for running the complex smart contracts DeFi relies on.
 
Native steps in with a bold mission: to bring Bitcoin into DeFi securely, without risky intermediaries or requiring you to “wrap” your Bitcoin into other formats (like Wrapped Bitcoin, which depends on custodians). They call it “programmability with a zero-trust architecture.” Sounds fancy, but it just means you can use your Bitcoin in DeFi apps while keeping full control of your assets.
 
How Does Native Work?
 
Here’s the deal: today, using Bitcoin in DeFi often means relying on “bridges” between blockchains. These bridges have a shaky track record—some have been hacked, costing millions. Native takes a different approach with Zero Trust Protocols (ZTPs), meaning no blind trust in middlemen; the system constantly verifies everything to stay secure.
 
Native also uses 2PC-MPC (a type of secure multi-party computation) to make Bitcoin “programmable” for smart contracts without compromising security. The project is built on the Sui blockchain, known for speed and scalability, to boost Bitcoin’s liquidity and possibilities.

A real-world example is nBTC, a token representing Bitcoin on Sui, but without the usual custody risks.
Another cool feature is the Bitcoin Yield Hub, which lets you earn yields on your Bitcoin without handing it over to anyone. It’s like putting money in a savings account that pays interest, but you stay in the driver’s seat.
 
The project is buzzing with activity:
 
- Strategic Partnerships: Native has teamed up with projects like COVAULT and IkaDot to bring secure custody and robust infrastructure to the Sui ecosystem, showing they’re building a broader network. 

- Community Campaigns: They recently launched a campaign with TalentumID on the Sui Coral Reef platform, where users can complete simple tasks (like social media engagement) for rewards. It’s a smart way to grow their community. 

- Evolving Testnet: Native is constantly upgrading its testnet. In January 2025, they rolled out version 0.1.1 with PebbleDB improvements, proving they’re serious about stability and scalability. 

- Community Focus: Active on Discord and X, Native shares updates and engages with users. They’re also inviting developers to build on their platform, offering early access and support for Bitcoin innovators.

Is It Worth Watching?

If you’re into Bitcoin, DeFi, or just curious about where crypto is headed, Native is a project to keep an eye on. It’s tackling a real problem—bringing Bitcoin to DeFi without sacrificing security—and seems to be on the right track with an active team, solid partnerships, and an engaged community.

Of course, early-stage projects come with risks. Native is still in development, and widespread adoption depends on factors like developer uptake and tech stability. Still, their vision is thrilling: a future where Bitcoin isn’t just for “hodling” but a cornerstone of decentralized finance.

Want to dive in? Check out their website, follow @goNativeCC
on X, or join their Discord for the latest updates.