Please describe your proposed solution

Proposed Solution: DRMZ and Web3 Is a Joke will partner to host two comedy shows in Southern California, specifically in San Diego and Los Angeles, to roast Cardano. Beyond these two events, we will establish an ongoing partnership that includes branding Cardano at all Web3 Is a Joke shows, which span globally, including locations like London, Dubai, and Miami. Additionally, we will develop educational materials to foster a deeper understanding of Cardano, making the blockchain accessible and engaging for diverse audiences.

• Perception of the Problem: Cardano is often perceived as overly academic or boring, which limits its appeal to broader audiences within the Web3 space. While Cardano offers significant advantages like sustainability and decentralization, it hasn’t captured the attention of communities that see it as inaccessible or too complex. The challenge is to break down these barriers and make Cardano more relatable and engaging.

• Reasons for Our Approach: We’re approaching this problem by using humor to bring Cardano to a wider, less Cardano-centric audience. Through our partnership with Web3 is a Joke, we will host comedy roasts that poke fun not only at the broader Web3 space but at Cardano itself. By roasting the platform in a lighthearted, engaging way, we make Cardano accessible and fun for those who might otherwise overlook it. This humorous approach fosters a sense of inclusivity, encouraging participants to engage with Cardano in a way that feels entertaining rather than overwhelming.

• Who Will the Project Engage: Our project targets Web3 enthusiasts, blockchain newcomers, and communities that haven’t yet connected with Cardano. By using comedy and a roast format, we’ll appeal to a broader spectrum of participants, particularly those who might find traditional blockchain education unappealing. This method opens the door to people who are familiar with Web3 but haven’t explored Cardano due to its reputation for being overly technical or serious.

• Demonstrating and Proving Impact: We’ll measure our success through participant surveys, event attendance, and engagement across social media platforms. We’ll track new wallet downloads and Cardano tool usage following the events, assessing how our roast format influences onboarding. Through post-event engagement and follow-up activities, we’ll demonstrate the lasting impact of these efforts in building a more engaged Cardano community.

Uniqueness and Importance to Cardano: Our solution stands out by leveraging Web3 Is a Joke's unique and proven approach to using comedy for community engagement. No one else in the Web3 space is using humor as effectively to break down the perceived inaccessibility of blockchain technology. We've already hosted a successful comedy event together, demonstrating that roasting Cardano and the broader Web3 space can create a fun, lighthearted environment where participants feel comfortable learning about complex topics.

By making Cardano approachable through humor, we will bring its advantages to a new audience, helping to grow Cardano’s user base and visibility. For participants, this initiative offers a fun and relatable introduction to blockchain, while the Cardano ecosystem benefits from increased awareness, cross-chain collaborations, and a stronger, more engaged community.

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

Impact on the Cardano Community:

The Web3 Is a Joke comedy shows, in partnership with DRMZ, are designed to bring a fresh and engaging approach to promoting Cardano. By using humor to roast Cardano and the broader Web3 space, we break down complex blockchain concepts in a way that’s accessible to a diverse audience, including those who may otherwise feel disconnected from or intimidated by the technology.

Positive Impact:

• Enhancing Blockchain Literacy: By making education entertaining, these comedy shows will demystify Cardano, allowing a wider audience to engage with and understand the platform. This helps onboard new users and fosters meaningful participation in the ecosystem.

• Expanding Cardano's Reach: Comedy has the unique ability to engage people who may not have explored blockchain technology before. Hosting live events in major cities like San Diego and Los Angeles, we will introduce Cardano to new audiences who may not typically attend blockchain-related events, expanding Cardano's user base.

• Strengthening Community Connections: These events are designed to build a stronger connection between current Cardano enthusiasts and newcomers, fostering collaboration and discussion within the community in a fun, relaxed setting. This approach strengthens the bonds essential to the decentralized nature of the Cardano network.

Methods to Measure Impact:

• Quantitative Measures:

• Participant Tracking: We will track event attendance and measure the increase in engagement with Cardano-related content and discussions, including new wallet downloads or ADA transactions.

• Technology Engagement: Tracking the number of new Cardano wallets and user activity will give us insight into the practical adoption of Cardano following the comedy shows.

• Survey Analysis: Post-event surveys will be conducted to assess changes in understanding, attitudes, and perceptions of Cardano among attendees.

• Qualitative Measures:

• Feedback Collection: We will gather feedback through interviews and open-ended responses to understand how participants feel about their experiences and how these events have impacted their understanding of Cardano.

• Success Stories: Documenting case studies that highlight the success of onboarding new users and fostering community connections will help showcase the effectiveness of this unique approach.

Sharing Outputs and Opportunities:

• Educational Content: While the events themselves are comedy-driven, educational materials created in connection with the shows will be made available to the Cardano community through open-source platforms. This includes any explanatory content, infographics, and learning materials.

• Recordings and Webcasting: Where possible, the comedy events will be recorded or live-streamed to ensure access for those unable to attend in person. This will allow the wider community to benefit from the content.

• Social Media Engagement: We will actively share insights, updates, and success stories through our social media channels, engaging the Cardano community in continuous discussions about blockchain education and the benefits of Cardano.

• Collaborative Initiatives: The connections and partnerships fostered during these events will be showcased in future blockchain conferences and community gatherings. This will help inspire further collaboration and innovation within the Cardano ecosystem.

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?

Capability and Feasibility:

We are highly confident in our ability to deliver this project, based on our proven track record of hosting successful events. Rodrigo, our project lead and a Cardano Ambassador, is an experienced educator and curriculum specialist who has integrated emerging technologies like blockchain and Web3 into his teaching. His leadership in hosting community events, combined with his deep understanding of blockchain technology and Cardano’s ecosystem, ensures we have the expertise and capability to deliver this project with high levels of trust and accountability.

Additionally, we are partnering with Mona Shaikh, the founder and leader of Web3 Is a Joke, who has a proven track record of hosting comedy shows that blend humor and education. Mona is keen on bringing more of the Cardano community into these events, and her experience will be instrumental in expanding the reach and success of the upcoming shows. Together, we have already hosted a successful Web3 Is a Joke comedy event out of pocket, which demonstrated the effectiveness of using humor to engage the Web3 community. This past success solidifies our confidence in scaling the project to two larger shows in San Diego and Los Angeles.

Steps to Ensure Feasibility and Trust:

• Proven Leadership: Rodrigo has a strong background in event organization, blockchain education, and community engagement. His ability to combine education with entertainment through successful events has already been demonstrated, and his leadership is a key factor in ensuring the feasibility of this project.

• Established Partnerships: Our ongoing collaboration with Web3 Is a Joke and other partners ensures we have the resources, connections, and expertise to deliver high-quality events. These partnerships strengthen our capacity to extend the reach and impact of the comedy shows.

• Track Record in Community Engagement: With DRMZ Web3, we have consistently organized events that brought together diverse groups from the blockchain community, earning positive feedback and demonstrating our ability to engage audiences effectively.

• Transparent Fund Management: We are committed to maintaining transparency in all financial dealings. Our expenses are meticulously documented, and we provide regular budget reports to stakeholders. Additionally, we implement a milestone-based funding release mechanism, ensuring that funds are distributed based on tangible project progress, minimizing risks, and ensuring accountability.

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

Milestone 1: Milestone 1: Pre-Event Planning and Logistics (Month 1-2)

• A: Milestone Outputs:

• Secured venues in San Diego and Los Angeles.

• Finalized event dates and contracts.

• Confirmed lineup of comedians and partners.

• Launch of NFT tickets and initial promotion campaign.

• B: Acceptance Criteria:

• Contracts signed with venues.

• Event dates announced, including promotion of NFT ticket claims.

• Partnerships with Web3 Is a Joke and key collaborators finalized.

• Initial NFT tickets launched and available for claim, with early interest metrics tracked.

• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• Signed contracts with venues.

• Public announcement of event dates and NFT ticket launch.

• Screenshots of promotional content (social media, websites).

• Data on initial NFT ticket claims and web3 Cardano wallet downloads.

Milestone 2: Milestone 2: Content Development and Promotion (Month 2-3)

• A: Milestone Outputs:

• Educational materials about Cardano and NFTs developed.

• Finalized show format and comedic scripts.

• Continued NFT ticket sales and promotion.

• B: Acceptance Criteria:

• Educational materials completed and integrated into the event format.

• Comedic scripts and show format finalized.

• NFT ticket claims and wallet downloads continue to increase, with targeted promotion campaigns.

• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• Copies of educational materials.

• Script and show format documents.

• Data on the number of NFT ticket claims and wallet downloads.

• Engagement reports from promotional efforts, highlighting NFT ticket sales.

Milestone 3: Milestone 3: Event Execution (Month 4)

• A: Milestone Outputs:

• Two successful comedy shows hosted in San Diego and Los Angeles.

• Event live streams and recordings completed.

• Attendee feedback and NFT engagement collected.

• B: Acceptance Criteria:

• Both events successfully completed with strong attendance.

• Majority of attendees have claimed NFTs and downloaded Cardano wallets.

• Live streams and recordings made available, with NFTs distributed as proof of attendance.

• Surveys distributed to attendees to assess understanding of Cardano.

• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• Event attendance figures, including data on NFT ticket claims.

• Links to recordings or live streams.

• Survey results and data on new Cardano wallet downloads and NFT interactions.

Final Milestone: Final Milestone: Project Close-Out and Reporting (Month 5-6)

• A: Milestone Outputs:

• Comprehensive project report, including NFT-related metrics.

• Final budget report.

• Summary video showcasing NFT integration and project success.

• B: Acceptance Criteria:

• Analysis of event success based on NFT claims, wallet downloads, and attendee engagement.

• Detailed financial report submitted.

• Completion of a summary video, highlighting NFT ticket claims, wallet downloads, and overall impact.

• C: Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• Project Close-out Report, including metrics on NFT ticket claims, wallet downloads, and engagement.

• Final financial documentation.

• Link to summary video.

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

Team Members and Their Roles:

Rodrigo Gomez - DRMZ Project Lead, Educator, and Cardano Ambassador

• Role: Oversee the entire project and ensure alignment with educational goals and Cardano’s values.
• Responsibilities: Rodrigo will plan event themes, coordinate with speakers and partners, and manage the overall content delivered at each event. He will also oversee community engagement and ensure that Cardano’s technological advancements are showcased effectively.

Chilli / Juliban - DRMZ Event Manager

• Role: Manage logistics, scheduling, and event operations.
• Responsibilities: Chilli will handle venue bookings, coordinate with vendors, manage event schedules, and ensure the seamless execution of all logistical aspects during the events, including ensuring NFT ticketing processes run smoothly.

Mona Shaikh - Founder of Web3 Is a Joke

• Role: Facilitate community engagement and collaboration through humor and education.
• Responsibilities: Mona will lead outreach to both local and international Web3 communities, engage with potential attendees via social media, and foster relationships with blockchain influencers to drive engagement and ticket/NFT claims. Her proven track record in hosting comedy events ensures strong audience connection and Cardano onboarding through humor.

Additional Team Members:

We're already in talks with additional team members with specific skills to enhance the execution of our project:

• Social Media and Marketing Specialist: To amplify our event reach and engagement, we will recruit a specialist skilled in digital marketing, particularly within the blockchain and tech communities.

• Audio/Visual Technician: For high-quality live streaming and recording of events, a skilled technician will ensure that all audio and visual elements are professionally managed.

• Volunteer Coordinators: To assist with on-the-ground activities during events, coordinators will manage volunteers, helping to facilitate various aspects of event execution.

Engagement and Communication:

We have already engaged all relevant team members, who are fully committed to the success of this project. Regular communication occurs via established channels such as Discord and Telegram, where we discuss project details, timelines, and responsibilities. Direct lines of communication are maintained with all partners and service providers, ensuring readiness and resource availability. Mona and Rodrigo have strong, ongoing engagement with both their respective communities and stakeholders, ensuring a smooth collaboration.

Consent and Compliance:

Consent for including personal and organizational details in this proposal has been obtained from all individuals involved. We are fully compliant with data protection and privacy laws, ensuring that all participant information is handled responsibly. We have also ensured that our proposal meets all Catalyst funding requirements and ethical guidelines. All project participants are aware of their roles and the scope of services across any submitted proposals, ensuring full transparency and compliance.

Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

Budget and Costs Overview:

Our project budget for two large-scale comedy shows in San Diego and Los Angeles is broken down below. We have allocated a budget that covers all necessary expenses, including performer compensation, venue rentals, marketing efforts, video production, and project management. The budget breakdown below reflects the resources needed at each stage, ensuring that all elements of our plan are supported by clear cost allocations.

Budget Breakdown:

Comedian and Speaker Fees (40%)

• Details:

• Compensation for comedians and performers, including the headliner and supporting acts. This ensures that the comedy shows attract top talent and deliver high-quality performances.

• Third-Party Services:

• Comedians and entertainment services.

• ADA Allocation: ~19,774 ADA

• USD Allocation: $7,000

Venue Costs (11%)

• Details:

• Renting event spaces in San Diego and Los Angeles, including venue setup and preparation. This includes third-party vendors for venue services and staff.

• Third-Party Services:

• Venue providers for both shows.

• ADA Allocation: ~5,649 ADA

• USD Allocation: $2,000

Food and Catering (8%)

• Details:

• Refreshments and catering services for both events to enhance the attendee experience. This includes contracts with catering companies to provide food and drinks during the shows.

• Third-Party Services:

• Catering services for both venues.

• ADA Allocation: ~3,955 ADA

• USD Allocation: $1,400

DRMZ Project Management (11%)

• Details:
• Management of event logistics, venue coordination, scheduling, and overall production. This includes overseeing operations and ensuring that everything runs smoothly before, during, and after the events.
• ADA Allocation: ~5,932 ADA
• USD Allocation: $2,100

Video Production and Recording (11%)

• Details:

• Professional video production services, including filming and post-production, to capture the shows for further engagement and community sharing. These recordings will allow us to extend our reach beyond in-person attendees.

• Third-Party Services:

• Professional videographers and post-production services.

• ADA Allocation: ~5,932 ADA

• USD Allocation: $2,100

Marketing and Promotion (11%)

• Details:

• Publicity efforts including social media campaigns, digital marketing, and promotional materials aimed at attracting a wider audience. This includes hiring a social media and marketing specialist to run campaigns promoting ticket sales and NFT claims.

• Third-Party Services:

• Marketing platforms (social media, digital ads), printing services for promotional materials.

• ADA Allocation: ~5,932 ADA

• USD Allocation: $2,100

Miscellaneous Costs (8%)

• Details:

• Permits, equipment rentals, and other minor logistical expenses necessary for the smooth execution of the events.

• Third-Party Services:

• Equipment rental services, permits from local authorities, and event insurance providers.

• ADA Allocation: ~2,824 ADA

• USD Allocation: $1,000

Management of Excess or Insufficient Funds:

• Excess Funds: Any surplus funds will be used to improve future events by enhancing production value, increasing marketing efforts, or expanding the reach of our educational content.

• Insufficient Funds: If additional resources are needed, we will seek sponsorships, partnerships, or increase ticket sales to offset the shortfall, ensuring the project is executed as planned.

Steaming of the sort we are thinking could be achieved using web2 tools. Furthermore, should we decide to go with a web3 partner, we have an ongoing conversation with a few teams to stream both comedy shows

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

Value for Money:

Our project represents excellent value for the Cardano ecosystem by using a carefully considered budget that maximizes impact and reach. The comedy shows, in partnership with Web3 Is a Joke, offer a unique and engaging way to attract new users to Cardano through humor and education. By blending entertainment with blockchain onboarding, we provide a creative approach to demystifying Cardano, driving new wallet downloads through NFT ticket claims, and fostering long-term community growth.

Justification of Costs:

The costs outlined are proportional to industry standards for event production, performer fees, and marketing within our geographic region. Compensation for comedians ensures high-quality talent is secured, which is essential for drawing an audience and delivering a memorable experience. Venue, food, and catering expenses are designed to create a welcoming environment that enhances the community-building aspect of the shows.

For areas like project management, video production, and marketing, the budget reflects typical freelance rates within our industry.

For example, professional video production services in Southern California generally range between $2,000 to $5,000, aligning with our allocation. Marketing and promotion costs are focused on reaching a wide audience and driving engagement with Cardano, ensuring effective use of funds to promote the event and its broader mission.

Impact vs. Costs:

This project delivers high value by focusing on onboarding new users to Cardano. Attendees claiming NFT tickets will be required to download Cardano wallets, directly contributing to user growth within the ecosystem. Beyond the immediate user onboarding, the comedy events will serve as a unique introduction to blockchain technology, making Cardano accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience.

The combination of humor, education, and blockchain onboarding ensures a strong return on investment for the Cardano ecosystem by not only increasing the user base but also fostering engagement and community participation. Each aspect of our budget directly supports Cardano’s growth, making this project a financially responsible and impactful initiative.