Wildcard is a multi-chain data- and token-bridge for both cryptocurrencies and NFTs, and has been in development since late 2020. It relies on hardware supporting TEEs (Trusted Execution Environment) and is based on novel research from the Applied Cryptography Group of the Technical University of Darmstadt (the CommiTEE protocol for provably secure TEE-based L2 chains). Wildcard has its own second-layer asset ledger which acts as a hub connecting multiple chains, and as a unifying chain-agnostic crypto-asset platform.
Can you briefly present your team?
Wildcard is developed by PolyCrypt GmbH, a team of researchers and engineers with deep expertise in blockchain interoperability, trusted execution environments (TEEs), and decentralized systems. Our multidisciplinary team combines backgrounds in distributed systems design, cryptography, protocol engineering, and developer tooling.
How did you come up with this project idea and what benefits will it bring to the end users?
The idea for Wildcard emerged from observing how fragmented the blockchain ecosystem has become. This is especially relevant for NFTs and applications that need to operate across multiple chains. Existing cross-chain solutions were either too slow, too expensive, or relied on centralized or insecure bridges. Wildcard solves this by enabling secure, privacy-preserving, real‑time asset and data transfers across chains. End users benefit from fast and low‑cost interactions, while developers gain a simple SDK that hides multi‑chain complexity.
How is TrustChain supporting your growth and what role does it play for the next steps in your development?
TrustChain played a crucial role by enabling us to refine Wildcard from a PoC into a developer‑ready platform. Funding allowed us to harden our protocol, improve privacy features through TEE‑based encrypted transactions, and validate our SDK with real users. TrustChain also provided visibility, networking, and a collaborative ecosystem that prepares us for broader adoption.
Why did you apply to the TrustChain call and has your vision changed since then?
We applied to TrustChain because the call aligned precisely with our focus on interoperability, privacy, and secure decentralized infrastructures. Our vision has remained consistent, but the project helped mature it significantly. We want to highlight the importance of developer experience, documentation, and usability as key adoption drivers.
What is the most valuable takeout from the TrustChain project and why was the topic of the Open Call important to you/your team?
The most valuable outcome has been the direct interaction with developers and pilot users. Their feedback shaped our SDK, clarified our documentation needs, and helped validate performance, privacy, and cross‑chain functionality. The focus of the Open Call on trustworthy decentralized technologies was essential, as it aligned with our TEE‑based approach to secure cross‑chain asset flows.
Did you establish collaboration with any of the TrustChain teams or plan for any kind of synergies? If yes, what is the biggest potential in such collaborations?
We started exploring synergies with several TrustChain teams. We see potential for example with TokEngine, nxCC, MultiPass, BondConnect and MS3. In most cases, the pattern is similar: they focus on tokens, NFTs, credentials or records across multiple ledgers, and Wildcard can provide the TEE-backed bridge and chain adapters to move those assets or attestations securely between chains while simplifying the developer experience.
What are your expectations regarding the TrustChain software ecosystem and its contribution to the NGI priority areas?
We expect the TrustChain software ecosystem to create a foundation for trustworthy, privacy‑respecting, interoperable digital services. Wildcard contributes by providing a secure interoperability layer built on TEEs. As TrustChain evolves, we foresee shared standards, more collaborative development, and stronger alignment with NGI priorities such as digital sovereignty and privacy‑by‑design
What are the next steps for your team?
Our next steps include onboarding more blockchain networks (e.g., Polygon, AssetHub), refining the SDK based on pilot feedback, and expanding our pilot programs, especially in gaming and enterprise contexts. We are also preparing commercialization pathways with paid tiers, enterprise features, and future TEE‑based smart service modules.
What is the message you would give to new and potential applicants to TrustChain Open Calls?
We are very thankful for the opportunity to be part of Trustchain. We encourage new applicants to think boldly but stay user‑centered. TrustChain provides an excellent environment for innovation, but success comes from listening to user feedback and iterating quickly. If your project addresses trust, privacy, interoperability, or digital sovereignty, this is the perfect place to build it