Celer Network is developing a layer-2 scaling platform that aims to enable fast and secure off-chain transactions and off-chain smart contracts. The Celer Network hopes to enable developers to create scalable DApps by increasing the off-chain functionalities of blockchains.

Rise is building a blockchain development platform with dPoS consensus. Their protocol uses a Delegated Proof-of-Stake (dPoS) consensus mechanism and will be powered by the RISE coin. They hope to significantly improve transaction times and reduce fees, while providing developers with a tool set to create DApps in several programming languages.

Kadena is a software development company that builds blockchain-based platforms for a range of businesses. They develop purpose-built blockchain solutions for their clients by using proprietary solutions that are aimed at being both secure and scalable. Kadena offers both private and public blockchain platforms, with smart contracts written in the Pact programming language. They've also developed an innovative proof-of-work architecture called ChainWeb that could have a variety of applications.
Kadena's founders have experience working for the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and JPMorgan Chase Bank. The company has raised significant funding and is well positioned to be play a big role in developing future blockchain solutions for large financial institutions.