Our Foundation Mission
We advance educational, scientific, and cultural missions related to the Mashiyu Protocol ecosystem while fostering Web3 gaming innovation in the Phoenix metropolitan area, bridging Japanese cultural heritage with cutting-edge blockchain technology.
Foundation Leadership
Christopher J. Fernandes
His Arizona roots run deep, having earned his Bachelor of Applied Science in Administration from Northern Arizona University, which instilled in him a strong connection to the Southwest region and its growing technology ecosystem. Christopher furthered his expertise with a Master of Science in Logistics, Trade, and Transportation, providing him with critical insights into global supply chains and international commerce that inform the foundation's strategic partnerships and cultural exchange programs.
Currently pursuing an MBA with a concentration in International Business at Southern New Hampshire University, Christopher continues to expand his knowledge of global markets and cross-cultural business dynamics. This ongoing education directly supports the foundation's mission to authentically integrate Japanese cultural heritage with modern Web3 gaming infrastructure while building sustainable international partnerships.
Under his leadership, the foundation has established itself as Arizona's premier Web3 gaming incubator while maintaining unwavering commitment to cultural authenticity and educational excellence. Christopher's vision of combining technological innovation with cultural preservation drives every aspect of the foundation's work, from the Digital Dojo incubation program to comprehensive community education initiatives.
Governance & Advisory Structure
Mashiyu Foundation USA operates under a structured governance model designed to ensure expertise, accountability, and mission alignment across all our initiatives.
Board of Directors
The foundation is governed by a Board of Directors with expertise in nonprofit law, finance, Web3 technology, Japanese cultural heritage, and community building. The board provides strategic oversight and ensures compliance with all 501(c)(3) requirements.
Current Composition:
- Foundation Director/President: Christopher J. Fernandes
- Additional board members being recruited per bylaws Section 3.5
- Target expertise: CPA/Attorney, Technical Advisor, Cultural Consultant, Foundation Executive
Technology Advisory Committee
Provides strategic guidance on blockchain technology, Web3 infrastructure, and game development to ensure our incubation programs remain cutting-edge and industry-aligned.
Key Responsibilities:
- Digital Dojo curriculum development
- Solana ecosystem insights and trends
- Technical infrastructure recommendations
- Startup mentorship on technical challenges
- Community ambassadorship
Cultural & Educational Advisory Committee
Ensures authenticity, integrity, and educational value in all programs related to Japanese cultural heritage preservation and cross-cultural exchange.
Key Responsibilities:
- Digital cultural preservation project guidance
- Authentic Japanese cultural integration
- Educational content and curriculum development
- Cultural institution partnerships
- Grant review for cultural authenticity
Grants & Ecosystem Advisory Committee
Guides funding strategy, identifies sustainable revenue streams, and builds strategic partnerships to ensure long-term financial health and ecosystem impact.
Key Responsibilities:
- Grant opportunity identification and prioritization
- Proposal review and fundraising guidance
- Earned revenue strategy development
- Strategic partnership introductions
- Nonprofit sustainability best practices
Commitment to Transparency
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, we maintain complete transparency in our operations, finances, and governance. All required documents and policies are made publicly available.
Articles of Incorporation
Official formation documents filed with Arizona Corporation Commission
AvailableFoundation Bylaws
Governance structure, board composition, and operational procedures
AvailableIRS Form 1023
501(c)(3) tax-exempt status application
Filing SoonFinancial Statements
Annual financial reports and Form 990 filings
AnnualCommittee Charters
Technology, Cultural, and Grants advisory committee structures
AvailableConflict of Interest Policy
Board and staff conflict of interest procedures and disclosure requirements
AvailableAnnual Reports
Comprehensive yearly impact and financial reports
AnnualWhistleblower Policy
Procedures for reporting concerns and protecting whistleblowers
AvailableFor access to any of these documents or to request additional information, please contact us at mshu@mashiyu.com
Organization Facts
Legal Status
Entity Type: Arizona Nonprofit Corporation
Incorporation Date: September 2, 2025
Tax Status: 501(c)(3) Application Filing Soon
EIN: Application in Process
Mission Focus Areas
Primary: Educational advancement in emerging technologies
Cultural: Japanese heritage preservation and cross-cultural education
Scientific: Blockchain and Web3 infrastructure research
Community: Digital literacy and ethical technology use
Geographic Scope
Primary Service Area: Phoenix Metropolitan Area
State Focus: Arizona
Regional Impact: Southwest United States
International Partnerships: Japan, Switzerland