The crypto industry's most powerful companies and lobbying groups have taken a new step to deepen their relationships with policymakers in the US. Industry giants such as Coinbase, Kraken, Uniswap Labs, Paradigm, Andreessen Horowitz, the Solana Policy Institute, and the Digital Currency Group (DCG) have announced the establishment of a nonprofit called the American Innovation Project (AIP).
The new organization aims to provide direct information to US politicians and officials on not only cryptocurrency but also artificial intelligence and other decentralized technologies. Julie Stitzel, DCG's vice president of policy, said that the AIP aims to "bridge the gap between policymakers and the public by translating complex technological developments into understandable and actionable insights."
Establishing an Education-Focused, Nonpartisan Structure
One of the AIP's key strengths is its focus on education and its emphasis on political neutrality. Stitzel stated that the organization will complement its existing lobbying efforts, but aims to inform, rather than influence, lawmakers. AIP will operate in the US under 501(c)(3) status. This legal status places it in the same category as churches, museums, and schools, providing tax exemption. However, according to IRS regulations, such organizations are required to engage in limited political lobbying activities.
The organization's board of directors includes some of the most influential lobbyists in the industry. Solana Policy Institute President Kristin Smith, Blockchain Association COO Allie Page, and Coinbase policy strategist Nick Carr will serve on AIP's board.
Crypto Regulation Emerges in Washington
AIP's establishment comes at a time when crypto regulations are accelerating in the US. Last month, President Donald Trump signed a bill establishing a federal framework for stablecoins. The House of Representatives passed a comprehensive bill broadly regulating the crypto sector. The SEC has also launched a new initiative called "Project Crypto" to update rules regarding token distributions, custody solutions, and trading activities. During this period, the AIP will organize various events to help policymakers make more informed decisions about technology. According to the statement, the organization will bring together industry representatives and legislators through closed-door sessions, workshops, and roundtable discussions.
First Event: Jackson Hole Summit
AIP's inaugural event will be held concurrently with a special crypto policy summit in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Co-hosted by Anthony Scaramucci's SALT conference and Kraken, the event will host high-level politicians and regulators. Attendees include Senate Banking Committee Chairman Tim Scott, Wyoming Senator Cynthia Lummis, SEC Chairman Paul Atkins, and Fed Vice Chair Michelle Bowman.
Kristin Smith, President of the Solana Policy Institute and President of the AIP, said, "Our goal is simple yet urgent: to equip America's leaders with the knowledge and tools to make the right decisions in a rapidly evolving technological environment."
