Zisk is a newly independent, open-source zkVM (zero-knowledge virtual machine) built by the core team behind Polygon’s zkEVM. Led by Jordi Baylina, Zisk is designed to deliver low-latency, modular, verifiable computation for the next generation of blockchain applications. But what exactly is Zisk, and why did it break away from Polygon?
What is Zisk and how does it work?
Zisk is a zero-knowledge virtual machine stack that enables developers to generate cryptographic proofs for arbitrary program execution. These proofs can then be verified without needing to re-run the program or access the original data.
Zisk supports:
Low-latency proof generation
Rust-based programming with plans for broader language support
Modular architecture for flexible deployment
Open-source code, including GPU optimizations
It offers developers the tools to create high-performance zk-powered applications with full transparency and verifiability.
Why did Zisk spin off from Polygon?
Zisk began as part of Polygon's zkEVM team but officially spun out in June 2025 under a new entity, SilentSig Switzerland GmbH. The move was driven by a shift in Polygon’s priorities. Polygon’s foundation is sunsetting the zkEVM chain due to low adoption and high costs, and instead focusing on its AggLayer and PoS chain.
Jordi Baylina and his team wanted to continue developing a high-performance zkVM without legacy constraints, leading to the spin-off.
Who is behind Zisk?
Zisk is led by Jordi Baylina, co-founder of Polygon and a respected leader in the zero-knowledge space. His team includes seven core zkEVM developers with years of collaboration experience.
This team aims to refine and expand Zisk beyond what was possible under Polygon’s umbrella, embracing a fully community-driven, open-source mission.
What makes Zisk different from other zk projects?
Zisk prioritizes developer experience and modularity. Its open-source ethos and low-latency goals are designed to meet the real-world needs of emerging blockchain apps, especially in privacy, scalability, and secure computation.
Early benchmarks suggest that Zisk may offer 40–60% faster verification than current zk solutions, though audits are pending.
Conclusion:
Zisk represents a fresh and focused effort to build scalable zero-knowledge technology from the ground up. With its seasoned team, open governance model, and performance goals, Zisk could become a foundational layer in the decentralized future.
