The nonprofit behind the privacy-focused Ethereum Layer 2 network said the cuts follow its shift from building the network to maintaining security, stability and ecosystem support after mainnet launch.
Aztec Foundation, the nonprofit behind a privacy-focused Ethereum Layer 2 network, cut 18 employees, reducing headcount from 33 to 15 in a restructuring announced by co-founder Zac Williamson on July 29. The move came after Aztec launched its mainnet in January 2026 alongside the AZTEC token distribution, and days after its Alpha V5 upgrade went live on July 21 with reported improvements of more than 50% in private transaction processing times and lower fees. Williamson said the Foundation is moving from a build-oriented phase to one centered on network security, scalability and stability. The Foundation oversees governance, security and ecosystem support, while Aztec Labs separately handles commercial product development. Williamson also said the Foundation remains well-capitalized for long-term operations, with attention turning to network maintenance and support for high-potential projects in the Aztec ecosystem. No market reaction in the AZTEC token had been reported following the announcement.