The Polkadot community is currently discussing the potential for a bridge that would connect the network with Cardano.

Felix, representing the Unifires ecosystem, shared on the Polkadot Forum that efforts are underway to create a Cardano-Polkadot light client and NFT swap bridge. He noted that the proposal has been submitted to Cardano, with plans to present a similar one to Polkadot’s decentralized governance body, OpenGov.

According to Felix, the proposal aims to secure funding for a project beneficial to both ecosystems. Blockchain bridges like this facilitate asset transfers between networks, addressing interoperability challenges in the broader crypto industry.

Both networks, founded by Ethereum co-founders Gavin Wood and Charles Hoskinson, have seen significant technical advancements and user growth. This interoperability initiative is expected to enhance the utility of both blockchains, especially with major upgrades planned to further develop their ecosystems.

Initial community feedback on the proposal has been largely positive. Polkadot Head Ambassador Tommi Enenkel, known as Alice and Bob, shared insights on potential bridge construction:

“For the Polkadot->Cardano direction, I believe the most direct approach would be to verify Beefy proofs on a contract on Cardano L1.”

In a related development, SnowBridge recently activated a trustless Polkadot-Ethereum bridge on June 20. The bridge leverages signatures from Polkadot and Ethereum validators, ensuring transparency, permissionless operation, and auditability. Initially, the bridge will support ERC20 asset transfers between the two networks, with plans for integration into multiple parachains and wallets.

SnowBridge’s bridge protocol is expected to foster greater interaction and introduce new Ethereum assets to the Polkadot ecosystem. Future plans include enabling arbitrary messaging and potentially launching a liquidity program.