Taproot Wizards is focused on advancing OP_CAT, a Bitcoin improvement proposal its founders say could enable Ethereum-like smart contract functionality via covenants. The group plans to use the funding to build an ecosystem of applications that leverage OP_CAT for permissionless programmability, including lending and trading while preserving self-custody. Taproot Wizards previously sold a collection of 3,000 NFT-like pieces called "Quantum Cats" about a year ago to drum up support for OP_CAT. The project says it has been attempting to "meme OP_CAT back into existence" and frames the feature as the "missing piece" for Bitcoin programmability. The proposal was originally included in Bitcoin's code by Satoshi Nakamoto but removed over concerns such as DoS risks, and many developers remain wary of reintroducing it. The group positions its work under a vision to "make Bitcoin magical again." Taproot Wizards is an Ordinals-based NFT collection on Bitcoin inspired by a decade-old Reddit wizard meme, with a limited mint of 2,121 wizards. As of the article, 2,106 (99.3%) have been inscribed to the blockchain, but fewer than 1% — just 20 Ordinals — have been distributed, and the team is intentionally pacing releases. Co-founders Udi Wertheimer and Eric Wall emphasize community-driven activities (a “wizard school,” tattoos, videos and other participation) and a mission to "bring innovation back to Bitcoin." The project raised $7.5 million in a round led by Standard Crypto and declined to disclose a valuation. Funds will be used to rebuild Bitcoin’s “wizard village,” compete with other chains like Ethereum and Solana, and pursue brand and infrastructure opportunities for a more dynamic Bitcoin ecosystem. The article places Taproot Wizards within broader Ordinals momentum: Ordinals launched in December 2022, inscriptions hit 40.4 million, and Bitcoin was the second-largest blockchain by NFT sales (~$163M in the past 30 days).

Total raised

$38M

Funding rounds

2

Latest round

Equity

Latest activity

Feb 2025