Please describe your proposed solution

Cardano Ghana Community: Fostering Growth and Innovation is a proposal that seeks to scale the growth and impact of the Cardano Ghana Community. Following the successful Fund 9 Catalyst Campus Train, the launch of the Cardano Ghana Community in Fund10 and the recent Cardano Ghana CIP 1694 Working Groups in Fund12 projects which led to the engagement and onboarding of over 500 young people on Cardano and Project Catalyst.

Despite significant efforts, we recognise that some universities and communities in Ghana remain unaware of Cardano and its Project Catalyst initiative.

This gap in the education and onboarding of student entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and

business students highlights the need for targeted initiatives to catalyze education and adoption of blockchain technology, specifically Cardano, within these communities.

The inspiration from the previous success allows us to target this project at 6 virgin university campuses in 6 out of 13 potential regions in Ghana, i.e., the Upper West Region, Western Region, Central Region, Eastern Region, Volta Region, and Greater Accra Region. For each targeted university campus, we plan on hosting a one-day conference during the third, fourth, and fifth months, post-funding period to engage and onboard 500+ students (entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and business-focused) out of a possible 600+. Selected universities include Dr. Hila Liman Technical University, the University of Mines and Technology (UMAT), the University of Education (UEW), All Nations University, the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), and the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), respectively. We do understand how difficult it is to engage universities with blockchain technology events; hence, as part of our risk mitigation plans, we have identified backup universities, which include the University of Development Studies (UDS), Takoradi Technical University (TTU), University of Cape Coast (UCC), University of Professional Studies, Eastern Campus (PUSAG), Evangelical Presbyterian University College, and Accra Technical University, respectively, to fill in for any rejections by major universities selected for the project.

Each conference will cover three main topics: Cardano Blockchain Technology, Introduction to Cryptocurrency, and Cardano Project Catalyst.

The Cardano Blockchain Technology session will be hosted by Mustapha Mohammed Yakubu, who has been a blockchain advocate in Ghana since 2018 and possesses extensive knowledge of it. The session will delve into an overview of blockchain, the history of Cardano blockchain and its various use cases, including smart contracts, RealFi, DeFi, Dapps, etc. Participants will also explore how they can innovate on the Cardano blockchain.

During the Introduction to Cryptocurrency session, students will learn about the basics of digital currencies, the evolution of money, and practical skills such as setting up Yoroi wallets and engaging in transactions with ADA, from Seidu Ziblim, who is both theoretically and practically good at demonstrating the essence of digital currencies and setting up wallets.

Nana Safo, a seasoned native Cardano Ambassador with tonnes of experience dating back from Fund 3, will introduce students to Cardano Project Catalyst, its purpose, and the resources and opportunities available. They will learn about proposal submission, governance, and reporting within the catalyst community.

Participating students would have earned a substantive understanding of cryptocurrencies, the Cardano blockchain, and how they can leverage Project Catalyst to drive positive change in their communities.

We will demonstrate our impact through quantitative and qualitative metrics. This includes the number of participants engaged during the campus tour, feedback and testimonials from attendees, and the subsequent involvement of participants in the Cardano and Catalyst communities post-tour. Additionally, tracking the adoption and implementation of blockchain solutions by student entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts following the educational sessions will serve as tangible evidence of our project's success in catalyzing education and adoption within these untouched regions and campuses in Ghana.

The uniqueness of Cardano Ghana Community: Fostering Growth and Innovation lies in its targeted approach towards addressing the specific needs of underserved regions and campuses in Ghana regarding blockchain education and adoption. Unlike generic blockchain education initiatives, this project tailors its conferences to suit the interests and requirements of student entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and business students, thus ensuring maximum relevance and impact.

One distinguishing factor is the emphasis on collaboration with university management and student community leaders. By partnering with these stakeholders, the initiative gains credibility and access to a wider audience. Moreover, by involving student community leaders, the project ensures that the knowledge imparted aligns with local contexts and needs, enhancing its effectiveness and sustainability.

The beneficiaries of this initiative are multi-faceted. Student entrepreneurs gain valuable insights and skills that can empower them to leverage the Cardano blockchain technology for innovative solutions. The universities may benefit from enhanced curriculum offerings and partnerships with a leading blockchain platform like Cardano. Additionally, Cardano itself stands to gain from increased awareness, adoption, and community engagement within these regions, thus contributing to its overall growth and success.

This initiative holds importance for Cardano for several reasons. Firstly, it aligns with Cardano's core principles of education and empowerment, aiming to democratize access to blockchain knowledge and opportunities. Secondly, by targeting underserved regions and campuses, the project helps Cardano expand its reach and impact, fostering a more inclusive and diverse ecosystem. Finally, by nurturing a new generation of blockchain enthusiasts and advocates, the initiative contributes to the long-term sustainability and vibrancy of the Cardano community.

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

Firstly, the successful implementation of the Cardano Ghana Community: Fostering Growth and Innovation will significantly increase awareness and adoption of Cardano within previously untapped regions and communities in Ghana. This expanded user base not only enriches the diversity of the Cardano community but also contributes to its overall growth and resilience.

Furthermore, the success of our project brings value to the Cardano community by fostering a culture of education, collaboration, and innovation. By empowering student entrepreneurs, tech enthusiasts, and business students with the knowledge and resources to integrate Cardano into their ventures, our initiative nurtures a new generation of blockchain enthusiasts and advocates who actively contribute to the ecosystem's development and sustainability.

To measure the impact of our project on the Cardano community, we will employ both quantitative and qualitative metrics. Quantitatively, we will track metrics such as the number of participants engaged during the campus tour, the level of participation and involvement in Cardano-related activities post-tour, and the adoption of blockchain solutions by student entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts. Qualitatively, we will gather feedback and testimonials from participants, assess the quality of collaborations forged with local educational institutions and community leaders, and evaluate the overall perception and awareness of Cardano within the targeted regions and campuses.

To share the outputs and opportunities resulting from our project, we will employ a multi-faceted approach. This includes disseminating project reports, case studies, and success stories through various channels, such as social media, blogs, and newsletters. Additionally, we will organize community events, webinars, and workshops to showcase the outcomes of the campus tour and facilitate further collaboration and knowledge sharing within the Cardano community. Finally, we will actively engage with relevant stakeholders, including the Cardano Foundation, EMURGO, and IOHK, to amplify the impact of our project and explore potential synergies and partnerships for future initiatives.

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?

Our team comprises experienced individuals with diverse skills and a proven track record of delivering successful projects within the Cardano ecosystem. Here's how our team's capabilities and experiences contribute to our ability to deliver the project with high levels of trust and accountability:

Mohammed Mustapha Yakubu (Project Lead & Organizer): Mohammed's extensive experience as a blockchain advocate and his leadership roles in hosting community events, organizing meetups, and contributing to Project Catalyst demonstrate his capability to lead the team effectively.

Nana Safo (Project Manager): With a wealth of experience as a Cardano Ambassador and a Funded Proposer, Nana possesses strong organizational and project management skills. His contributions to initiatives like Boosting Cardano in South Africa, Cardano Recycling Dapp, Landano.io, Win-Win Mediation, and events (Cardano workshops, conferences, hackathons, etc,), etc. showcase his ability to manage resources efficiently and deliver results.

Fidelia Ayaabila (Project Scribe): Fidelia's dedication to the Cardano ecosystem and her involvement in organizing programs and proposal assessments demonstrate her commitment to driving meaningful impact. Her role as a scribe in the Catalyst Mini Working Group showcases her ability to document proceedings accurately and facilitate effective communication within the team.

Seidu Ziblim (Project Logistics Manager): Seidu's background in logistics management equips him with the requisite skills needed to support project logistics management. His experience in managing logistics for all Cardano Ghana Community, events and controlling technical aspects of events ensures smooth execution and logistics management.

Richmond Oppong (Graphics & Marketing Manager): Richmond's expertise in graphic design and marketing is crucial for enhancing the project's brand presence and driving engagement. His experience in promoting Cardano events and projects, such as Catalyst Africa Town Hall and Wada Global, highlights his capability to create compelling visual narratives and marketing campaigns.

Track Record:

The team recently join forces to host a successful Catalyst Working Group (CWG) Workshop in Tamale which saw over 40 participants to discuss the theme: Catalyst Funded Projects Incubation and Acceleration. The event got featured on a local TV channel, watch here -

CWG workshop recap on forum - https://forum.cardano.org/t/catalyst-working-group-cwg-workshop-tamale/131532?u=chosenfintech

Recap on X - https://twitter.com/Cardanoghana/status/1787854540194058683?t=IYwOSAiBzLLo-3rZ6rGFIQ&s=19

Completed Catalyst Projects:

Fund9: Catalyst Campus Train — find completed project media here - https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1nz3qcT98Vo_whkWdaSKHxW_6hODtLRjQ

Fund9: Catalyst Campus Train Close-out report video - https://youtu.be/M9ak6z-bd_s?si=CPy9rikvz5MMLHp4

Cardano Ghana Community Launch- https://youtu.be/lDwspVGpOiw?si=HFcREMBCP5Vrg1AY

Close-out report video for Cardano Ghana Community project in Fund10 - https://youtu.be/nxfmLlG0j4c?si=qvjyDXQHJ-EW2D2P

F11: Catalyst Working Group (CWG) Workshop coverage on TV - https://youtu.be/ouwH4e6C04U?si=EqHjJhiTRO6TWj8c

Feasibility Validation Process:

Stakeholder Engagement: We will engage with stakeholders, including the Cardano community and local partners. This will help validate the feasibility of our approach and gather feedback for continuous improvement.

Risk Management: Identified risks that could/may impede a smooth implementation flow may include;

Risk: Some university management may not be comfortable with blockchain activities due to its unfortunate scammy misconception. Mitigation: Educate university management on blockchain's legitimacy through case studies to dispel misconceptions and build trust.

Risk: Inflation upsurge. Mitigation: Contingency costs have been added to milestone budgets to cater for inflation.

Risk: Academic work such as exams and quizzes may hinder student's participation. Mitigation: Ensure the project schedules do not clash with the school mid-semester or end-of-semester exam period.

Risk: Issues of election violence and instability as Ghana holds its election in December 2024. This may affect participant movement and turnout at the conference. Mitigation: Ensure to hold conferences in election-free months and schedule its December conference on a post-election date in a violent-free city. For example, schedule the date for December after the general election on December 7, 2024 and post election shocks early January 2025 Also, carefully select locations that do not encounter any post-election shocks or violence.

Milestones: The established milestones help validate the effectiveness of our approach and ensure accountability for achieving objectives.

By leveraging our team's capabilities and implementing robust validation processes, we are confident in our ability to deliver the project with high levels of trust and accountability.

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

Milestone 1: Milestone 1 (Preparation, Planning, and Marketing)

Timeline: Months 1 & 2 post-funding.

Budget: 50% of the entire project budget.

Outputs:

Conference schedules were finalised.

Conference materials were designed and printed.

Engagement with university community leaders (SRC) was coordinated.

Conference presentation materials were created.

Conference procurements and logistics were taken care of.

Acceptance:

Dates scheduled for all conferences.

All relevant marketing and SWAG-designed elements are designed and printed.

At least 1 meeting with 6 different student university management/student leadership (SRC).

Presentation materials on 3 outlined topics were created.

All media gadgets were procured, and relevant logistics like snacks & drinks, transportation, hotels, etc. were handled.

Evidence:

Link to event schedules created on Lu.Ma platform.

A G-drive containing all marketing and SWAG assets/designs and pictures of printouts.

Pictures/videos of engagement with university management/student leadership.

A G-drive containing all presentation materials.

Pictures of the procured media items and documentation of relevant logistics like reserved snacks & drinks, reserved transportation, hotel reservations, etc.

Milestone 2: Milestone 2 (Launch of Conferences and Evaluation)

Timeline: Months 3, 4 & 5 post-funding.

Budget: 40% of the entire project budget.

Outputs:

1. Conference venues were arranged or booked (if pre-booking is allowed
2. Advertising and marketing campaigns were launche
3. Comprehensive conferences across the 6 regions were commence
4. Hands-on sessions were conducted to educate and onboard participants into the Cardano and Catalyst communitie
5. Quantitative and qualitative data on participant engagement were collecte

Acceptance:

1. All event venues are identified, reserved or booked
2. Advertising and marketing campaigns are launched with at least

6 posts on social media, 1 for each campus

Posters placed on various campuses

1. Conferences are hosted in all 6 universities
2. At least 70% of conference participants are onboarded onto Cardano communities
3. At least 70% of conference participants responded to the post-event survey

Evidence:

1. Scanned copies of conference venue bookings
2. Advertising and marketing output
3. Media of the 6 workshops
4. Media of the onboarding process and a screenshot of the Cardano Ghana Community telegram page membership growt
5. The output of the participant survey

Final Milestone: Milestone 3 (Close-out Report and Video Documentation)

Timeline: Months 6 post-funding.

Budget: 10% of the entire project budget.

Outputs:

A comprehensive close-out report documenting the impact of the campus tour, including key metrics, feedback, and success stories, was drafted and submitted.

A close-out video was created and submitted.

Success stories and the close-out video were shared across Catalyst community channels.

Acceptance:

Close-out report (Doc)

Close-out video posted on Cardano Ghana Community YouTube channel.

Success stories shared across Cardano community channels (Discord, Telegram, Reddit, X, Facebook, etc)

Evidence:

Screenshot of close-out report form submitted or submission email, if received.

Link to the project close-out video.

Engagements from the catalyst community on success stories shared.

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

Image of Core Project Team

Extreme left: Mohammed Mustapha Yakubu (Project Lead & Organizer)

Left: Nana Safo (Project Manager)

Middle: Fidelia Ayaabilla (Project Scribe)

Right: Seidu Ziblim (Project Logistics Manager)

Extreme right: Richmond Oppong (Project Design & Marketing Manager)

Mohammed Mustapha Yakubu - Project Lead & Director

Mohammed Mustapha Yakubu, a seasoned Blockchain Advocate in Ghana since 2018. Mohammed's journey with Cardano began in September 2021, when he co-hosted the maiden Cardano Summit 2021 in Kumasi, Ghana. His success in hosting subsequent community-led events for the Cardano Summit 2022 and 2023 showcased his commitment. He played pivotal roles in Cardano's Project Catalyst as CT Lead for both Fund8 and Fund9, contributing to the 'Grow Africa, Grow Cardano' Challenge. As a funded proposer (FP) in Fund9 and Fund10, he fronted projects like Catalyst Campus Train, educating and onboarding about 280 students and startups into the Cardano ecosystem. With a passion for meticulous planning and impeccable organization, he thrives in the role of an Organizer. Experienced in coordinating events, projects, and initiatives, Mustapha brings a keen eye for detail and a knack for efficient resource management. With strong communication skills and a proactive approach to problem-solving, he excels in creating and maintaining structured, well-executed plans.

Role: Project Lead & Organization

<https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammed-mustapha-yakubu-a08455125>

www.t.me/mmustaphayakubu

Nana Safo - Project Manager

Nana’s extensive wealth of experience in project management expands projects such as Boosting Cardano in South Africa, Cardano Recycling Dapp, Landano.io, Win-Win Mediation, and events (Cardano workshops, conferences, hackathons, etc,), etc. Nana has been a core member of the Cardano Project Catalyst initiative since Fund 3 and has contributed immensely in all roles. Through his selfless contribution, he has onboarded and mentored a significant number of catalyst participants through both virtual and in-person initiatives. Nana’s recent focus has been on Intersect DRep initiatives and is contributing to the development of relevant governance tools. Adept at problem-solving, he navigates challenges with agility, finding creative solutions to ensure project success. Nana's communication prowess fosters collaboration among team members, stakeholders, and clients, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. With a keen eye for detail, he meticulously monitors progress, identifying and mitigating risks to keep projects on track.

Role: Project Management

linkedin.com/in/nanasafo

https://t.me/Nana_Safo_01

Fidelia Ayaabila - Project Scribe

Fidelia Atampoaka Ayaabilla, a recent graduate of the University of Cape Coast, holds a degree in Social Sciences with a major in Economics. With a profound interest in technology and its societal implications, she is dedicated to making a positive impact on her community through volunteering. Her journey with Cardano began with organizing programs during Fund 8 at Upper East in Bolgatanga with Wada, where she effectively managed and mobilized participants, resulting in over 50 individuals being onboarded onto the Cardano blockchain ecosystem. Continuing her commitment, she actively engaged in proposal assessment during fund 9 and seized the opportunity to submit a proposal titled "Cardano Ladies Hub" under the theme "Grow Africa, Grow Cardano." Since then, she has remained dedicated to proposal assessment, now focusing on fund 11. Moreover, Fidelia played a pivotal role in the Catalyst Mini Working Group, successfully hosting more than 40 participants at the HOP In Academy and also played the role of a scribe. Through this platform, they provided comprehensive training on blockchain-related topics, emphasizing peer-to-peer mentorship. Excited about the possibilities that Cardano brings to empower communities globally, Fidelia is eager to collaborate with like-minded individuals and teams to drive meaningful impact.

Role: Project Scribing

linkedin.com/in/fidelia-atampoaka-ayaabilla-b3411224b

t.me/@fidzs

Seidu Ziblim - Project Support, Media &amp; Logistics

With a solid background in logistics management, Seidu Ziblim brings expertise in orchestrating seamless logistical operations for projects. His experience includes coordinating procurement, transportation, and supply chain activities to ensure timely delivery of materials and resources. He has managed logistics for all events hosted by the Cardano Ghana Community thus far and has been an active contributor to the Cardano ecosystem since Fund 8. Seidu thrives in fast-paced environments, adept at mitigating risks and optimizing processes to meet project objectives efficiently. With strong communication and collaboration skills, he excels in building partnerships with stakeholders to drive project success. As a dedicated Project Logistics Manager, he is committed to delivering results and exceeding expectations in every endeavour.

Role: Project Logistics Management

linkedin.com/in/seidu-ziblim-abu-544326172

t.me/seiduz

Richmond Oppong - Graphics &amp; Marketing Manager

Richmond, the graphics designer and marketing professional, is the visual storyteller who will ensure the brand presence of the project. He weaves narratives through captivating imagery and design. Richmond possesses a keen artistic eye, which enables him to translate concepts and ideas into stunning visuals that resonate with audiences. Proficient in industry-standard design software, he crafts polished and professional graphics across various mediums, from digital platforms to print materials. Richmond's creativity knows no bounds, as he pushes boundaries and innovates to deliver fresh and engaging designs that leave a lasting impression. With skills in marketing, Richmond aided in driving brand awareness and engagement for the Cardano Africa Live hub, Catalyst Africa Town Hall, Wada Global and Cardano Ghana Community projects, and events. Proficient in both traditional and digital marketing channels, he crafts compelling campaigns that capture attention and drive results. With a data-driven approach, he analyses metrics and KPIs to measure campaign effectiveness and optimise performance.

Role: Graphics &amp; Marketing Management

Richmond Oppong | LinkedIn

<https://t.me/RichADA91>

Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

Milestone 1 (Preparation, Planning, and Marketing)

Timeline: Months 1 and 2 post-funding

Budget: 50% of the entire project budget - ₳ 40,000

Breakdown:

Media Gadgets: ₳ 5134 (Purchase of Canon 6D mark ii, Telephoto Zoom Lens, Tripod, Memory card, Lapel, Flashlight, etc.)

Conference Materials and Swag: ₳ 11400 [600 copies of (T-shirt, Pen, Brochure, Small-size Cardano Sticker, Keyholder], 2 pull-up banners, 5 banners (large), posters)

Snacks &amp; Drinks: ₳ 5700

Transportation and Logistics: ₳ 5700

Team Remuneration: ₳ 8066

Contingencies: ₳ 4000

Milestone 2 (Launch of Workshop and Evaluation)

Timeline: Months 3, 4, and 5 post-funding

Budget: 40% of the entire project budget - ₳ 32,000

Breakdown:

Venues: ₳ 9100 (Six different venues in six different regions)

Advertising and Marketing: ₳ 2300

Volunteers: ₳ 2200

ADA Bounty: ₳ 3100 (Successful onboarding and complete participation in the Cardano Academy courses)

Team Remuneration: ₳ 12100

Contingencies: ₳ 3200

Final Milestone (Close-out Report, Video Documentation, and Sharing of Success Stories)

Timeline: Month 6 post-funding

Budget: 10% of the entire project budget - ₳ 8,000

Breakdown:

Team Remuneration: ₳ 8000

Total Budget: ₳ 80,000

N/A

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

The costs of the project are justified based on the scope of activities, the need for quality execution, and the impact on the Cardano ecosystem. Additionally, the allocation of funds to various aspects of the project reflects prudent planning and ensures that resources are utilized effectively to achieve the project's objectives.

Milestone 1: Preparation, Planning, and Marketing

This milestone covers the bulk of the project budget (70%) and includes essential expenses for setting up the workshops and marketing the event effectively. Here's the cost breakdown:

Media Gadgets: ₳5134 (Purchase instead of rent)

Purchasing media gadgets instead of renting them may seem like a higher upfront cost, but it ensures long-term value for the project by owning assets that can be reused for future events.

Workshop’s Materials and Swag: ₳11400

Providing workshop materials and swag enhances the experience for participants and serves as promotional items for Cardano.

Snacks &amp; Drinks: ₳5700

Offering refreshments during workshops is a common practice and contributes to the overall experience of participants.

Transportation and Logistics: ₳5700

Covering transportation and logistics expenses ensures smooth coordination and execution of the events across different locations.

Team Remuneration: ₳12100

Paying team members ensures their commitment and dedication to the project, facilitating its success.

Contingencies: ₳4000

Contingency funds are essential to handle unforeseen expenses or emergencies during project execution.

Milestone 2: Launch of Workshop and Evaluation

This milestone focuses on launching the workshops and evaluating their effectiveness. The costs allocated to this phase are:

Venues: ₳9100 (Six different venues in six different regions)

This cost is justified as it includes booking venues across different regions, ensuring accessibility for participants from various areas.

Advertising and Marketing: ₳2300

Investing in advertising and marketing is crucial for attracting participants to the workshops and ensuring a successful turnout.

Volunteer: ₳2200

Recruiting volunteers helps manage the workshops efficiently and enhances the overall experience for participants.

ADA Bounty: ₳3100

Offering ADA bounties incentivizes participant engagement and completion of Cardano Academy courses, contributing to the project's objectives.

Team Remuneration: ₳8066

Continuing to remunerate the project team ensures their ongoing commitment and dedication to the project's success.

Contingencies: ₳3200

Including contingency funds in this milestone provides flexibility to address any unforeseen issues during the workshop launch and evaluation phase.

Milestone 3: Close-out Report and Video Documentation

This milestone covers the final reporting and documentation of the project's outcomes. The allocated costs are:

Team Remuneration: ₳8000

Compensating the team for their efforts in preparing the close-out report and video documentation ensures the completion of the project's final deliverables.