Please describe your proposed solution

APRENDO is a non-profit organization that has been actively working to reduce the technological gap in vulnerable communities across Latin America. Through our flagship program, #APRENDOcripto, we deliver education in personal finance, blockchain technology, and digital literacy. Our aim is to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the digital economy and open doors to opportunities in the tech sector.

<https://youtu.be/7OThknvhx4c> # The problem

The problem we are addressing is the lack of access to technological education in disadvantaged communities. Despite increased access to mobile devices, many individuals lack the necessary digital literacy to engage with emerging technologies like blockchain. This gap not only excludes people from economic opportunities but also makes them vulnerable to fraud and financial instability, particularly in countries like Argentina, where economic volatility is a constant challenge.

# Our Proposed Solution: 15 New Editions of #APRENDOcripto in Latam with focus in Argentina

To address this issue, we propose to expand our #APRENDOcripto program by implementing 15 new editions in Latam with focus in Argentina over six months. We are seeking funding specifically to support these editions, which will enable us to reach approximately 300 new participants from communities most affected by economic instability and limited access to digital education.

#APRENDOcripto provides a comprehensive solution through a structured educational program that combines theoretical learning with practical, hands-on experience. Our course is designed to give participants a solid understanding of blockchain technology, personal finance, and how to safely engage in the digital world.

In addition to the workshops, we will produce a series of at least 5 interviews with prominent figures from the Cardano ecosystem. These interviews will complement our in-person efforts by providing participants and the broader public with additional context on:

• What is Cardano?
• The advantages of Cardano as a blockchain platform.
• Use cases and applications of Cardano in Latin America.
• Opportunities within the Cardano ecosystem for individuals from vulnerable communities.

The content will be made publicly available on platforms like YouTube and X Spaces to ensure maximum reach and engagement. These interviews will be critical for setting the stage for how Cardano will be integrated into our workshops and the broader educational curriculum. This will not only provide context to our participants but also highlight the role of Cardano in fostering financial inclusion and social impact.

This content generation phase will be complemented by our efforts to establish partnerships with local organizations, recruit participants, and secure venues for the first 5 editions of #APRENDOcripto, thus launching the project formally.

## Course Structure and Content

The #APRENDOcripto program consists of five workshops, each lasting two hours, with a balanced mix of theoretical knowledge and practical activities. The workshops cover a wide range of topics essential for understanding blockchain technology and personal finance. The content of each workshop is as follows:

• Financial Education: In this workshop, participants are introduced to basic concepts of personal finance, such as budgeting, saving, and traditional investment tools. We aim to provide them with the foundational knowledge needed to manage their personal finances effectively, especially in the context of volatile economies like Argentina.
• Blockchain Technology and the Crypto Ecosystem: This session offers a theoretical introduction to blockchain technology. We explain the technical principles that make blockchain possible, discuss the differences between centralized and decentralized systems, and introduce key concepts such as cryptocurrencies, smart contracts, and blockchain applications.
• Advanced Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence: Participants are introduced to advanced blockchain applications such as Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs), Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), and Decentralized Finance (DeFi). We also include an introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT, explaining how AI and blockchain can be integrated to create innovative solutions.
• Cybersecurity and Professional Opportunities: In this workshop, we emphasize the importance of online safety and how to avoid scams in the digital world. We teach participants best practices for securing their digital wallets and personal information. In addition, we discuss the various professional opportunities within the blockchain ecosystem and how these can lead to new career paths in the tech sector.
• #comunidadAPRENDO Workshop: The final workshop focuses on integrating participants into #comunidadAPRENDO, our post-graduate community designed to support continued learning and personal development. This workshop includes practical exercises to encourage networking and collaboration among participants, emphasizing the importance of staying engaged with the community for long-term growth.

## Learning Methodologies

To ensure that our educational model is both impactful and inclusive, utilizamos una combinación de clases tradicionales, Self-Organized Learning Environments (SOLE), y gamificación:

• Traditional Classes: These structured sessions provide a strong foundation of theoretical and practical knowledge. Instructors lead discussions and interactive sessions, ensuring that participants grasp the key concepts.
• SOLE Challenges: Based on the Self-Organized Learning Environment methodology developed by Professor Sugata Mitra, we encourage participants to work in teams to solve complex questions with minimal teacher intervention. This promotes independent thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Gamification: Throughout the course, participants are divided into teams and engage in various challenges and activities, accumulating points based on their performance. This gamified approach fosters collaboration, motivates participants, and makes the learning process more engaging.

## #comunidadAPRENDO: A Platform for Continued Growth

After completing the #APRENDOcripto workshops, graduates become part of #comunidadAPRENDO, our post-graduate learning community. This community is designed to provide participants with continued access to educational resources and collaborative opportunities. It focuses on three key pillars:

• Community: A space where participants can share knowledge, support each other, and collaborate on blockchain-related projects. Gamification plays a key role in fostering engagement and interaction within the community.
• Training: Through programs like #criptoIMPULSO, members of #comunidadAPRENDO continue their learning journey, focusing on digital literacy, blockchain, and socio-emotional skills. Free courses and financial incentives are provided to ensure that participants can continue developing their skills.
• Opportunities: While we don’t guarantee job placement, we open doors for participants by connecting them with opportunities for professional development and collaboration within the blockchain ecosystem.

# Why Focus on Argentina?

With the emergence of the Crecimiento movement in Argentina, we are witnessing unprecedented coordination among various sectors around blockchain. This moment represents a unique opportunity to position Argentina as a technological leader, with lessons and models that could be replicated throughout the region. By fostering education and blockchain adoption through initiatives like APRENDO, we see the potential to create a success story that can be scaled across Latin America.

# Our Track Record and Impact

Since its inception, #APRENDOcripto has successfully graduated over 900 individuals through 50 editions across 9 countries (Argentina, Bolivia, Honduras, Chile, Venezuela, Paraguay, Mexico, Uruguay and Colombia). We have built strategic partnerships with social organizations and schools, enabling us to expand our model effectively and adapt it to the needs of different communities. #comunidadAPRENDO serves as a key pillar in this strategy, offering participants a sustainable learning environment where they can continue growing beyond the initial workshops.

# Conclusion

With the requested funding, we will implement 15 new editions of #APRENDOcripto in Latam with focus in Argentina, directly addressing the lack of access to technological education in vulnerable communities. This initiative will equip approximately 300 individuals with essential skills in personal finance, blockchain technology, and digital literacy. By doing so, we aim to reduce the technological gap, promote financial stability, and open doors to new opportunities within the tech sector for those who need it most.

Please define the positive impact your project will have on the wider Cardano community

Our project will significantly contribute to the Cardano ecosystem by expanding its user base and fostering blockchain adoption among communities that are often overlooked. By providing education on blockchain technology through #APRENDOcripto, we are not only increasing awareness of Cardano but also creating new opportunities for these participants to engage with the ecosystem. The ripple effect of educating 300 new participants in vulnerable communities could have far-reaching consequences, as they will act as advocates and promoters of blockchain technology within their local networks.

The value this project brings to the Cardano community is multifaceted:

• Expansion of Cardano’s user base: Through the education and engagement of individuals from underserved communities, we will introduce a new, diverse demographic into the Cardano ecosystem. This contributes to Cardano’s goal of global financial inclusion and fosters a more equitable ecosystem.
• Awareness and Practical Application: Participants will gain hands-on experience with blockchain technologies, particularly those related to Cardano. This practical exposure increases adoption rates and creates a pathway for real-world applications, whether through personal finance management, participation in decentralized finance (DeFi), or understanding governance models within blockchain systems.
• Building a Network of Continuous Learning: The integration into #comunidadAPRENDO ensures that graduates continue learning and stay engaged with Cardano and blockchain technologies. This community acts as a catalyst for ongoing innovation, enabling participants to apply their knowledge in creative ways, potentially leading to new ideas and projects that can benefit the Cardano ecosystem.

How will we measure this impact?

We will use a combination of quantitative and qualitative metrics to track the success of the project:

• Quantitative Measures:
• Enrollment and Completion Rates: Track the number of participants who enroll and successfully complete the 15 editions of #APRENDOcripto over the next 6 months.
• Engagement in #comunidadAPRENDO: Monitor the number of graduates who actively participate in our online community, taking advantage of learning resources and networking opportunities.
• Qualitative Measures:
• Participant Feedback: Collect and analyze feedback through surveys and interviews to measure participant satisfaction and gauge how well they are applying their new knowledge in personal and professional contexts.
• Success Stories: Track individual stories of participants who have used their blockchain education to create projects, secure opportunities, or engage further with the Cardano ecosystem.

How will we share the outputs and opportunities?

• Community Engagement: We will publish success stories, case studies, and progress updates through #comunidadAPRENDO and broader blockchain channels like social media, blogs, and Cardano forums.
• Partnerships and Collaborations: Insights from the project will be shared with educational institutions and blockchain organizations to foster collaborations that may expand the #APRENDOcripto model to other regions.
• Reports and Documentation: Detailed reports and case studies will be presented to the wider Cardano community through X spaces, and meetups, allowing stakeholders to track our progress and the long-term impact.

What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability? How do you intend to validate if your approach is feasible?

APRENDO has demonstrated its capability to deliver high-impact projects through its track record of successful blockchain education and inclusion initiatives. Over the past several years, we have developed a strong foundation in fostering technological skills in vulnerable communities, particularly in Latin America.

Our achievements to date include:

• Over 900 individuals graduated from #APRENDOcripto.
• 50 editions conducted in 9 Latam countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Honduras, Chile, Venezuela, Paraguay, Mexico, Uruguay and Colombia
• Successful implementation of in-person workshops in 28 venues across the region, with a growing focus on expanding further.

Ensuring Feasibility

We ensure the feasibility of our project through a well-defined approach based on our extensive experience:

• Proven Methodology: Our educational model has been tested and refined over the years, ensuring that it resonates with the unique needs of underrepresented communities. We have tailored our curriculum to be accessible, practical, and relevant to participants.
• Experienced Team: Our team comprises experts in blockchain technology, education, and community engagement, all of whom bring a wealth of experience to the project. This allows us to execute the project effectively and scale it across different regions.
• Strong Financial Accountability: We have robust systems in place to manage funds responsibly. Every allocation is tracked against specific milestones, and we provide transparent reporting to all stakeholders. Our commitment to accountability and transparency is demonstrated through regular updates and detailed financial reports.

In conclusion, APRENDO's extensive track record in blockchain education, combined with our ambitious growth plans and our expertise in community engagement, uniquely positions us to deliver this project with high levels of trust and accountability. We are confident in our ability to make a significant contribution to the Cardano commu

nity while continuing to foster digital inclusion across Latin America.

What are the key milestones you need to achieve in order to complete your project successfully?

Milestone 1: Conduct at least 5 Interviews with Cardano Project Leaders and 3 #APRENDOcripto programs

• Achievement Date: End of Month 2
• Milestone Funding Amount: 15,000 ADA

A: Milestone Outputs

• Conduct at least 5 interviews with prominent Cardano project leaders, focusing on how Cardano can be integrated into #APRENDOcripto. The content will cover topics like “What is Cardano?”, "Cardano Use Cases," and "Opportunities for Latin America."
• Publish these interviews on our platforms (YouTube, X Spaces) and promote them through social media.
• Conduct the first 3 editions of #APRENDOcripto, tailored to the specific needs of the communities.

B: Acceptance Criteria

• All 5 interviews are completed, published, and promoted.
• Interviews feature key figures from recognized Cardano projects.
• All 3 workshops are conducted in-person and completed by the specified date.
• Graduates are onboarded to #comunidadAPRENDO.

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Links to published interviews on YouTube and X Spaces.
• List secured venues for the first 5 editions.
• Detailed reports for each #APRENDOcripto edition
• Photographs of workshop activities and participant engagement.
• Confirmation of graduate registration in #comunidadAPRENDO.

Milestone 2: Completion of 6 #APRENDOcripto Programs

• Achievement Date: End of Month 4
• Milestone Funding Amount: 30,000 ADA

A: Milestone Outputs

• Conduct 6 editions of #APRENDOcripto, tailored to the specific needs of the communities.

B: Acceptance Criteria

• All 6 workshops are conducted in-person and completed by the specified date.
• Graduates are onboarded to #comunidadAPRENDO.

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Detailed reports for each #APRENDOcripto edition
• Photographs of workshop activities and participant engagement.
• Confirmation of graduate registration in #comunidadAPRENDO.

Final Milestone: Completion of the Final 6 #APRENDOcripto Programs and Final Evaluation

• Achievement Date: End of Month 6
• Milestone Funding Amount: 30,000 ADA

A: Milestone Outputs

• Conduct the final 6 editions of #APRENDOcripto.
• Complete a final evaluation and report on the overall project impact, including participant feedback and the success of the partnership model.

B: Acceptance Criteria

• All 6 workshops are conducted in-person and completed by the specified date.
• Graduates are onboarded to #comunidadAPRENDO.
• A comprehensive final evaluation report is completed, covering the overall project impact, participant outcomes, and partnerships.

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Detailed reports for each #APRENDOcripto edition, including participant lists and feedback.
• Photographs of workshop activities and participant engagement.
• Confirmation of graduate registration in #comunidadAPRENDO.
• Submission of a comprehensive final project report, including partnership feedback and participant outcomes.

Who is in the project team and what are their roles?

Tom Grau Baena - Executive Director of APRENDO

LinkedIn Profile: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/tgraubaena/>

Background: Crypto enthusiast since 2014. He has been leading projects for more than 15 years. Industrial engineer (ITBA) and musician (UNA), he is interested in finding concrete applications of blockchain technology that have a social impact.

Role: Tom directs the strategic execution of APRENDO’s initiatives, ensuring that the organization's efforts to integrate Cardano education align with our broader mission to enhance digital inclusivity in Latin America. His oversight is vital in coordinating the development and implementation of APRENDO’s four-part strategy, from curriculum integration to community engagement through Cardano technology.

Diego Gil - Head of #APRENDOcripto

Background: Architect with a 10 years experience in social projects. Specialist in the design and execution of community projects. Faithful believer that a fair and inclusive society is possible.

Role: Diego is pivotal in integrating Cardano into the #APRENDOcripto curriculum, overseeing the adaptation and delivery of this specialized content. As the program's operational leader, he ensures that all aspects—from curriculum design to the organization of in-person workshops—align with the strategic goal of enhancing blockchain education through Cardano. His meticulous management helps ensure that the curriculum is effectively imparted, making foundational and advanced blockchain concepts accessible to underprivileged communities across Latin America.

Sofía Ramos - Head of Community Outreach

LinkedIn Profile: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/-sramos-/>

Background: Political Scientist (UBA) and Master in Public Policy (DI TELLA). She has extensive experience in project design, management and evaluation in the public sector and in non-governmental organizations. She is passionate about politics, education and gender issues. Her passion is coordinating strategic projects whose main objective is to build more inclusive and egalitarian societies.

Role: Sofía plays a crucial role in APRENDO’s outreach efforts, focusing on engaging with vulnerable populations and building robust relationships with community leaders to facilitate the #APRENDOcripto programs. She is responsible for guiding and supporting our local representatives in each country as they identify and partner with social organizations and schools. These partnerships are essential for delivering our courses effectively across diverse regions. Sofía’s expertise in community mobilization and her strategic approach to partnership development ensure that our educational initiatives are accessible to those most in need, making a significant impact in empowering underprivileged communities through blockchain education.

Belén Arostegui - Head of #comunidadAPRENDO

LinkedIn Profile: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/belenarostegui/>

Background: Marketing and Communication Professional (USAL), with a Master's in Innovation and Sustainability (EADA). Extensive background in the private sector with experience in developing strategies, managing cross-sector and international projects, and leading teams. A lover of collaborative work and, above all, projects that seek root transformation to generate sustainable, impactful changes in society and the planet.

Role: Role: Belén spearheads the #comunidadAPRENDO, focusing on integrating graduates into ongoing Cardano projects. Her leadership fosters a collaborative environment where community members not only learn from but also contribute to real-world projects, enhancing their skills while promoting environmental awareness and action.

Eduardo Drabble - Global Community Engagement Lead

LinkedIn Profile: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/eduardo-javier-drabble-70504991/>

Background: Lawyer and Theologian with a deep involvement in community development and social economics. His extensive experience in coordinating community strengthening initiatives is complemented by his knowledge in Digital Technologies, including Web3, Blockchain, and Artificial Intelligence.

Role: Responsible for maintaining contact with leaders of regional social organizations that are directly connected with members of the #comunidadAPRENDO. He ensures that these leaders provide personalized support and motivation to community members. His role is crucial in fostering a strong, supportive network that enhances the effectiveness and reach of this proposal.

Nicola Salvagni - #comunidadAPRENDO Cardano Liaison

LinkedIn Profile: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-salvagni-6a206a6a/>

Background: Specializes in empowering businesses and communities through technology, focusing on brand narratives at Namarie. He plays a key role in the overall coordination of the #comunidadAPRENDO initiative at Proof of Integrity, facilitating its connection with the Cardano community.

Role: Responsible for overseeing the integration of #comunidadAPRENDO into the Cardano ecosystem. This role is critical in ensuring these initiatives are in line with the strategic objectives of #comunidadAPRENDO and the broader Cardano community, promoting active engagement and effective collaboration.

Nico D - Communications Officer and Community Manager

Twitter: https://twitter.com/_nicod_

Background: Social Media and Content Creation Specialist. With over 10 years of experience in social media communication and content creation, Nico is deeply passionate about leveraging blockchain and web3 tools for positive impact. Currently, he is actively involved in DAOs and Web3 communities, collaborating with peers to foster innovative initiatives and encourage the adoption of decentralized technologies.

Role: Nico D orchestrates all communications and manages community interactions for APRENDO, playing a crucial role in amplifying our outreach and engagement through social media and other digital platforms. He is responsible for crafting compelling content, managing online discussions, and maintaining a vibrant online presence that connects with and inspires our audience.

Gonzalo Suárez: Visual Communication Strategist

LinkedIn Profile: <https://www.linkedin.com/in/gonzalomsuarez/>

Background: Gonzalo is a graphic designer with a passion for using visual communication to advance strategic visions, innovation, and commitment. He is currently pursuing a Master's in Public Policy at Di Tella University. His expertise in graphic design and strategic communication plays a crucial role in effectively conveying complex blockchain concepts to a broader audience, enhancing the educational impact of the APRENDO initiatives.

Role: As the Visual Communication Strategist for APRENDO, Gonzalo is tasked with designing and producing all visual materials related to the integration of Cardano content within the #APRENDOcripto workshops. His responsibility is to ensure that these materials are not only informative but also visually appealing and easy to understand, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of the educational experience offered by APRENDO.

Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

The total requested funding for this proposal is 75,000 ADA, allocated as follows:

1. Operational Costs for 15 #APRENDOcripto Editions - 45,000 ADA

Each edition of #APRENDOcripto is allocated a budget of 3,000 ADA (totaling 45,000 ADA for 15 editions). This covers the essential aspects required for the successful delivery of the program.

Cost Breakdown per Edition (3,000 ADA per edition):

• Head of #APRENDOcripto: Oversees the overall direction and ensures the program meets educational objectives.
• Head of Community Outreach: Engages with local communities and partners to secure participants and venues.
• Training Coordinator: Ensures high-quality instruction and facilitator preparation.
• Logistics Coordinator: Manages venue setup, equipment, and participant coordination.
• Instructor Compensation: Fair remuneration for instructors delivering the workshops.
• Instructor Training: Prepares instructors with the necessary tools to deliver the curriculum effectively.
• Participant Refreshments: Covers refreshments to ensure participant comfort during the workshops.
• Participant Incentives: Provides rewards to enhance engagement and participation.
• Educational Materials: Covers teaching aids, both digital and printed, along with certificates.

2. General Operational Costs for APRENDOcripto (6 months) - 30,000 ADA

This budget is allocated to cover operational costs over a 6-month period, ensuring smooth program management and execution across all activities.

Roles Funded Under This Allocation (30,000 ADA for 6 months):

• Head of #comunidadAPRENDO
• Global Community Engagement Lead
• #comunidadAPRENDO Cardano Liaison
• Communications Officer and Community Manager
• Visual Communication Strategist

These roles are crucial for managing participant engagement, ensuring the integration of graduates into #comunidadAPRENDO, and maintaining the operational efficiency of the program.

Budget Summary:

1. Operational Costs for 15 #APRENDOcripto Editions:

• 45,000 ADA (3,000 ADA per edition for a total of 15 editions).

1. General Operational Costs for 6 months:

• 30,000 ADA to cover key roles and operational needs for the successful management and delivery of the program.

No dependencies

How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

Cost Effectiveness:

• Regional Wage Considerations: Salaries and operational costs are aligned with the local wage standards in Argentina, ensuring that the project is economically feasible while fairly compensating local staff. This approach supports local economies while maintaining cost efficiency, allowing us to implement the project effectively within budget.
• Industry Standards: The budget for educational materials, logistics, and community management is based on typical costs within the educational sector in Latin America. This ensures that all spending is in line with regional benchmarks while maintaining high standards in content delivery and participant engagement.

Value to the Cardano Community:

• Expanding Cardano’s Reach: By delivering in-person education across Argentina, this initiative directly engages underserved and underrepresented communities, significantly increasing Cardano’s user base and diversity within its ecosystem. This contributes to the network’s resilience, global relevance, and commitment to equity and inclusion.
• Promoting Cardano's Mission: This project aligns with Cardano’s mission of providing economic identity and empowerment through decentralized technologies. By educating vulnerable communities in blockchain technology and financial literacy, we create real-world opportunities for financial inclusion, enhancing Cardano’s role as a leader in technological empowerment and social good.
• Enhancing Engagement and Utility: Through the #APRENDOcripto program, participants will gain practical experience with Cardano’s blockchain, further integrating them into the ecosystem. This hands-on learning will enable participants to explore key Cardano features, such as decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and governance, which not only educates but actively involves them in the network. This is expected to drive increased understanding and adoption of Cardano, thus contributing to network activity and transaction volume.

Strategic Allocation of Resources:

• Direct Impact on Education: The funds are strategically allocated to directly enhance the learning experience of participants by delivering 15 editions of #APRENDOcripto, with each edition incorporating blockchain and Cardano-specific content. These editions will ensure that participants acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to engage with decentralized applications and other key tools within the Cardano ecosystem.
• Fostering Long-term Community Engagement: A significant portion of the budget is dedicated to supporting the graduates’ integration into #comunidadAPRENDO, providing them with access to further educational opportunities, community engagement, and pathways to real-world applications. This fosters a sustainable and engaged community, ensuring long-term retention and active participation in the Cardano ecosystem.

Leveraging Partnerships:

• Collaborations: This project leverages partnerships with local organizations and educational centers, which enhance the impact of the funding by bringing additional resources, venues, and expertise into the initiative. These partnerships help extend the reach and sustainability of the project beyond its initial investment, ensuring a greater return on the funds.

Transparency and Accountability:

• Transparent Reporting: The project is committed to maintaining high levels of transparency and accountability. Regular updates and reports will be shared with stakeholders to ensure that the progress and allocation of funds are clearly communicated. This transparency builds trust with the community and demonstrates the tangible impact of the investment, making the process accountable and open.