Beam is a decentralized, privacy-focused cryptocurrency launched in January 2019. It is based on the Mimblewimble protocol, which provides high levels of privacy and scalability by enabling confidential transactions without storing the entire transaction history on the blockchain. The project is community-driven and governed by the Beam Foundation, a non-profit organization established to support the development and promotion of the Beam ecosystem. The mission is to create a store of value and medium of exchange that is confidential and easy to use for individuals and businesses.