diff --git a/package.json b/package.json
index 60cbe550ad..48c1aafad9 100644
--- a/package.json
+++ b/package.json
@@ -1,6 +1,6 @@
 {
     "name": "azle",
-    "version": "0.17.1",
+    "version": "0.18.0-rc.0",
     "rust_version": "1.68.2",
     "dfx_version": "0.14.2",
     "description": "TypeScript CDK for the Internet Computer",