> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://metadoosh.gitbook.io/metadoosh/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://metadoosh.gitbook.io/metadoosh/dao-governance/what-is-a-dao.md).

# ¿What is a DAO?

A DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) is a virtual organization that runs on the blockchain and is governed by its participants through smart contracts. DAOs enable decentralized decision-making and fund management without the need for centralized intermediaries. This makes them ideal for applications in the fields of financial technology, digital democracy, and the collaborative economy.