Cardano (ADA) is an open-source Proof-of-Stake (PoS) blockchain network with its inception dating back to 2015. It utilizes a modified version of UTXO (EUTXO) to accommodate support for smart contracts, which is currently under development.

It is supported by three main organizations: the Cardano Foundation, IOHK, and Emurgo. They all work in conjunction to support development, promotion, and commercial adoption efforts.

Cardano’s progress of development is divided into 5 phases, which are concomitantly rolled out through a process that relies heavily on academic research and engineering best practices.

Cardano is expected to implement full support for smart contracts by the end of 2020 with the final Goguen update.