TokenFi, a sister project to Floki that focuses on real-world asset (RWA) tokenization, is set to tokenize the Floki Minibot M1 — an AI-powered robot built by Rice Robotics — marking what the team says is the first tokenization of a consumer AI robot.

The move coincides with the launch of TokenFi's RWA tokenization module on May 23. A presale for the Minibot M1's token will go live the same day, initially for users on a whitelist compiled by Rice AI and select Floki ecosystem participants.

Crypto startup TokenFi is setting its sights on RWA tokenization with the launch of its RWA tokenization module on May 23.

The move will also see the project, best known for being a sister project to memecoin Floki, begin presale of a token for the Minibot M1—an AI-powered robot built by Rice Robotics.

Aimed at broader plans to launch Rice AI's RICE token and conduct an airdrop for Floki (FLOKI) and TokenFi (TOKEN) holders, the presale will initially open to users on a whitelist compiled by Rice AI and select Floki ecosystem participants.

The startup is also setting the record straight on what it says is the first tokenization of a consumer AI robot.

Announced earlier this year, the partnership will see TokenFi develop a tokenized derivative of the small, autonomous robot that can be used for both delivery and companionship purposes.

The Minibot M1 is a branded version of Rice Robotics' compact delivery and companion robot, which is powered by the startup's own RICE AI system.

Nvidia, Softbank, Mitsui Fudosan and 7-Eleven Japan are among the startups and companies that have partnered with Rice Robotics.

"This is the first time in history that an AI robot will be tokenized,” TokenFi said in a statement.

"It's a phenomenal moment for TokenFi, the RWA industry, and the AI robotics space. We are excited to be bringing together these three domains in such a groundbreaking way."

TokenFi aims to be a leading RWA infrastructure provider, allowing companies to tokenize real-world items — from assets to equity and now robotics — using blockchain rails.

Earlier this year, Floki developers said they believe Rice Robotics is "well-positioned for growth" in the AI robotics sector, highlighting industry projections that set the sector on course to exceed $100 billion by 2030.

"We are excited to be working with TokenFi to bring the Minibot M1 to a wider audience through tokenization," said Dr. Gary Lee, CEO of Rice Robotics.

"We believe that this partnership will be mutually beneficial and that it will help to accelerate the adoption of AI robotics technology."

TOKEN has risen 19% over the past 24 hours, data from CoinGecko show, as major tokens also post gains.

The CoinDesk 20 Index, a measure of the broader crypto market, has risen 3% over the past 24 hours. Most major tokens, such as ETH and ADA, have also increased by double-digit percentages.