Espresso is a network built to support rollups and other Layer 2 systems by providing shared infrastructure they can rely on for ordering transactions and confirming outcomes. Its goal is to let multiple rollups use the same neutral layer for sequencing and confirmations instead of each rollup running its own isolated setup.

At a high level, Espresso works as a separate network that rollups can connect to. Rollups send information to Espresso so it can:

• Order transactions in a way that rollups can use to build blocks deterministically.
• Confirm and finalise ordering using a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism so rollups can treat the result as reliable.
• Help rollups publish or reference data needed for verification, depending on the integration model.

This separation is intended to reduce duplicated effort across rollups and provide a single place where ordering and confirmations can be coordinated.

ESP is the token used inside the Espresso network for protocol-level participation and payments.

• Proof-of-stake participation: ESP is staked by validators to take part in consensus. Token holders can delegate their stake to validators. Rewards and penalties are tied to validator behaviour and participation rules defined by the protocol.
• Protocol fees: ESP is used to pay fees for certain network services, including fees related to data processing inside the Espresso network.
• Network operations and incentives: ESP can be used by the protocol to align incentives between validators, delegators and network usage, including structured reward programmes tied to staking activity.

Espresso was co-founded by:

• Ben Fisch (CEO and CTO).
• Benedikt Bünz (Chief Scientist).
• Charles Lu (Chief Operating Officer).
• Jill Gunter (Chief Strategy Officer).