Zest Protocol is a decentralized finance (DeFi) platform built to unlock the full potential of Bitcoin by enabling users to earn yield or borrow against their BTC holdings. Operating on the Stacks Layer 2 blockchain, Zest leverages smart contracts written in Clarity to offer a trust-minimized, fully on-chain lending experience without relying on traditional intermediaries. Users can deposit Bitcoin, which is converted into sBTC—a 1:1 pegged asset on Stacks—to participate in lending pools or access overcollateralized loans, thereby putting their BTC to productive use without relinquishing ownership. The protocol's design emphasizes security, transparency, and decentralization, aiming to provide a robust financial infrastructure for Bitcoin holders. Founded in 2023, Zest Protocol has garnered support from notable investors, including Draper Associates and Binance Labs, and continues to develop its platform to enhance Bitcoin's utility in the DeFi ecosystem.