Please describe your proposed solution
<u>Cooperativa Local: Empowering Organizations with DAOs and Cardano since 2021</u>
<u>A Foundation Built on Experience and Impact</u>
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We believe in actions speaking louder than words. Before we delve into the specifics of our proposed solution, we want to paint a vivid picture of the solid ground upon which this proposal stands. Our journey at Cooperativa Local has been one of continuous learning, innovation, and impactful collaboration within the Cardano ecosystem. We've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of decentralized technologies, and we're passionate about empowering organizations to embrace this new paradigm.
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This section will showcase our deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing DAOs, particularly within the creative and entertainment industries and in developing economies. We'll share our proven track record of success, highlighting key achievements and milestones that demonstrate our ability to deliver impactful results. We'll also introduce you to DAO Cooperativa Local, a testament to our commitment to community-driven governance and a reflection of our belief in the collective power of decentralized organizations.
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By showcasing our experience and expertise upfront, we aim to establish a strong foundation of trust and credibility. We want to demonstrate that we are not just proposing a theoretical solution, but a program built on real-world experience, a deep understanding of the challenges, and a passionate commitment to driving positive change.
<u>Leveraging Cardano's First DAO Incubator: Building on a Proven Foundation</u>
This Fund13 proposal represents the evolution of our successful Fund11 awarded "Cardano's DAO Incubator Program 2024." This pioneering initiative established Cooperativa Local as a leader in DAO education and adoption within the Cardano ecosystem. The 2024 program served as a crucial MVP phase, allowing us to:
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Incubate 8 influential organizations: We've guided these organizations through the process of understanding, creating, and implementing DAOs, providing them with the knowledge and tools needed to embrace decentralized governance. Our first cohort of 4 organizations successfully completed the program, and we're currently guiding a second cohort of 4 organizations, which began in October and is estimated to conclude in December.
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Deliver a comprehensive learning experience: We've conducted 20 classes across 50 sessions, covering a wide range of topics from organizational governance and blockchain fundamentals to tokenomics and DAO management. Each 2-hour class incorporated a blend of content exposition, active student participation, practical activities, and assigned homework to reinforce learning and encourage continuous engagement.
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Refine our curriculum and platform integration: Through these initial cohorts, we gathered valuable feedback and iteratively improved our program, ensuring its effectiveness and relevance to the needs of creative organizations and those operating in developing economies.
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Track key metrics and make data-driven adjustments: We diligently monitored program progress, gathering data on student engagement, platform usage, and DAO implementation to inform our approach and ensure the program's success. This data-driven approach allows us to continuously adapt and improve, ensuring that our program remains relevant and impactful.
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Achieve high levels of satisfaction and adoption: The 2024 program received an average grade of 97% from students, demonstrating high levels of satisfaction and engagement. We also observed significant increases in the adoption and usage of Cardano dApps, such as Eternl wallet, JPG.STORE NFT marketplace, and the Clarity Protocol and Summon Platform DAO suites. This positive feedback and increased adoption validate the effectiveness of our approach and demonstrate the value we bring to the Cardano ecosystem.
This ongoing experience provides valuable insights that we will use to continuously improve our program execution, ensuring that we meet the milestones and deliverables outlined in this proposal. Building on this strong foundation and the valuable experience gained in 2024, we are now poised to scale our impact and further refine our program with this Fund13 proposal, as a fully-fledged "product," scaling our impact and expanding our reach within the Cardano ecosystem.
<u>Demonstrating Success: Our Track Record</u>
We are not just theorists or newcomers to this space. We have a proven track record of success in engaging with the creative and entertainment industries, as well as communities in developing economies, building a strong community, and achieving significant milestones:
- DAO Cooperativa Local: A World-Class Project with a Proven Team: We are more than just a team; we are a community-driven movement. DAO Cooperativa Local is the embodiment of our collaborative spirit, a testament to our belief in the power of decentralized governance. Our team has consistently delivered successful Catalyst projects, demonstrating our ability to manage funds responsibly and achieve impactful outcomes. We are experts in technology, passionate about the creative economy, and dedicated to building thriving communities. This unique blend of expertise, combined with our cost-effective approach, ensures that every ADA invested in our program generates maximum value for the Cardano ecosystem. We are committed to executing this project with the highest levels of professionalism, efficiency, and accountability.
<u>Our track record speaks for itself</u>
We have a history of turning vision into reality. Our achievements are not just numbers on a page; they are stories of empowerment, collaboration, and innovation:
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Over 200 collaborations and leads: We have built bridges between artists, creators, technologists, and community leaders, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of collaboration and mutual support.
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30+ organizations onboarded: We have guided organizations on their Web3 journey, empowering them to leverage decentralized technologies to achieve their goals.
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8 organizations Incubated as DAOs on Cardano this year, by our Fund11 Proposal "Cardano's DAO Incubation Program". These organizations, cooperatives, and unions of workers came to us with varying levels of Web3 knowledge and experience, and we tailored our approach to meet their unique needs. Now, they are prepared to pioneer the use of DAOs on Cardano, and demonstrate the transformative power of decentralized governance: ARDE, Cooperativa La Fuga, 437 Club, Electronic Music Workers Union (IME), Cooperativa Ronda, Mujer Latina Producciones, Union of Women and Dissident Music Workers (TRAMUS) & METRO21.
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13+ events, exhibitions and phygital experiences: We have brought the excitement of Web3 and DAOs to life through engaging events and exhibitions, IRL and VR, partnering with organizations like PizzaDAO, NounsDAO, Metacorral, three exhibitions at GAM, one of the most renowned cultural centers of Latin America, DART International Festival, and NFT.NYC 2023.
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3,000+ attendees engaged: We have sparked curiosity and ignited passion for decentralized technologies, reaching thousands of individuals through our impactful events and programs.
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200,000+ individuals reached: Our message of empowerment and innovation has spread far and wide, reaching a global audience and inspiring a new generation of Web3 enthusiasts.
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100+ users empowered: We have equipped individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to embrace Web3 and participate in the decentralized future.
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200+ NFTs and Artworks exhibited: We have showcased the creative potential of NFTs and blockchain technology, supporting artists and creators in exploring new forms of expression and monetization.
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110+ wallets created on our Platform: We have opened the doors to the Cardano ecosystem, enabling individuals to actively participate in the decentralized economy.
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140+ NFTs minted on our Platform: We have fostered a culture of creativity and innovation, supporting the creation and distribution of unique digital assets on the Cardano blockchain.
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200+ Posts on-chain on our Platform: We have built a vibrant online community, where individuals can connect, share ideas, and contribute to the growth of the Cardano ecosystem.
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We have been supported by Start-up Chile, a world's top-10 leading public technology accelerator, led by CORFO from the Ministry of Economy, Development and Tourisim.
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4 Catalyst projects delivered successfully, with a total funding of $71,850: We have consistently delivered impactful projects with remarkable efficiency, demonstrating our commitment to maximizing the value of every ADA entrusted to us.
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We participated in the 2021 Cardano Catalyst Boost Camp, a 4-week online program "designed to help Catalyst-funded entrepreneurs like you. This bootcamp, supported by IOG, provided mentorship and training to develop essential early-stage entrepreneurship skills and competencies"
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1,000+ Catalyst Votes and 260+ Reviews: Our proposals have resonated with the Cardano community, garnering significant support and positive feedback.
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4.4+ Overall Score (Top 5%): Our commitment to excellence and community satisfaction has consistently placed our projects among the top performers in Catalyst funding rounds.
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5+ Technology partners: We have forged strong partnerships with developers, platform providers, and other experts who have helped us build and implement our Web3 solutions.
<u>Unlocking the Potential of DAOs: A Tailored Approach for Diverse Sectors</u>
To fully appreciate the transformative potential of our Program, it's crucial to understand the broader context in which it seeks to create impact. We have identified two key areas where DAOs offer particularly powerful solutions:
<u>A. The Creative and Entertainment Industries, and Cultural Ecosystems:</u>
These sectors, pulsating with the energy of artists, musicians, filmmakers, and cultural creators, are ripe for the transformative power of DAOs. Imagine a world where artistic collaboration transcends borders, where funding flows directly to creators, and where communities have a direct voice in shaping the cultural landscape. This is the vision we strive to realize.
However, these vibrant sectors often face challenges that hinder their growth and limit their potential:
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Complex stakeholder networks: The creative process involves a multitude of actors, from individual artists to large production companies, each with their own needs and interests. Coordinating these diverse stakeholders can be complex and inefficient, leading to delays, conflicts, and missed opportunities.
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Challenges with traditional funding models: Reliance on grants, sponsorships, or centralized platforms can create barriers to entry, stifle innovation, and limit the autonomy of creators. Many talented artists struggle to secure the funding they need to bring their visions to life.
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Opaque decision-making processes: Lack of transparency in funding allocation, project selection, and governance can breed mistrust and hinder collaboration. This can perpetuate existing power imbalances and discourage participation from marginalized communities.
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Inequitable value distribution: Traditional models often favor intermediaries, leaving creators with a smaller share of the revenue generated by their work. This can discourage talent, limit economic sustainability, and stifle the growth of the creative ecosystem.
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Limited access to global markets: Many creators, especially those in developing economies, face challenges in accessing international markets and distribution channels. This limits their growth, exposure, and ability to connect with a global audience.
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Vulnerability to censorship and control: Centralized platforms and institutions can exert control over creative expression, limiting artistic freedom and potentially silencing marginalized voices. This can stifle creativity and hinder the development of diverse and inclusive cultural narratives.
<u>Highlighting the Specific Challenges of Creative Businesses and Cultural Organizations:</u>
In addition to these broader challenges, cultural organizations often face unique hurdles in adopting new technologies and navigating complex funding landscapes. Limited resources, lack of technical expertise, and the need to balance artistic integrity with financial sustainability can create significant barriers to innovation and growth. Our program is specifically designed to address these challenges, providing tailored support and guidance to cultural organizations as they explore the potential of DAOs.
<u>B. Developing Economies and Informal Markets:</u>
In many developing economies, informality is a pervasive reality. Organizations operating in this context face unique challenges that hinder their growth and limit their ability to contribute to economic development:
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Inefficient governance: Lack of clear decision-making processes, accountability mechanisms, and formal structures can lead to confusion, conflict, and hinder organizational growth. Decisions may be made arbitrarily, leading to inefficiencies and a lack of trust among stakeholders.
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Lack of transparency: Limited visibility into financial transactions, decision-making processes, and resource allocation can breed mistrust among stakeholders and discourage participation. This can create a breeding ground for corruption and hinder the development of accountable and sustainable organizations.
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Limited access to funding: Organizations in the informal sector often struggle to secure funding from traditional sources, such as banks or investors, due to a lack of formal registration, credit history, or collateral. This can severely limit their ability to grow, invest in their operations, and create opportunities for their communities.
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High dropout rates: Instability, lack of opportunities, and limited career pathways within the informal sector contribute to a significant loss of talent and hinder the development of a sustainable creative ecosystem. Talented individuals may be forced to abandon their creative pursuits due to a lack of support and opportunities.
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Negative economic impact: Informality hinders the growth and development of the creative industry, resulting in lost capital, limited job creation, and a negative impact on the overall economy. This can perpetuate cycles of poverty and inequality, limiting the potential of entire communities.
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Weakened community bonds: The lack of thriving cultural organizations and accessible creative spaces can negatively impact community cohesion, cultural identity, and social well-being. When communities lack the resources to express their creativity and cultural heritage, it can lead to a sense of disenfranchisement and a loss of identity.
<u>DAOs as a Force for Empowerment and Inclusion</u>
DAOs offer a powerful antidote to these challenges, providing a pathway for organizations in the creative sector and informal markets to thrive. By embracing decentralized governance, transparent decision-making, and community-driven ownership, DAOs can:
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Empower creators and communities: DAOs give creators and communities greater control over their work and resources, enabling them to make key decisions about funding, production, distribution, and governance. This fosters a sense of ownership and agency, encouraging participation and innovation.
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Foster collaboration and innovation: DAOs facilitate seamless collaboration among diverse stakeholders, breaking down traditional silos and fostering a culture of shared learning and innovation. This can lead to the creation of new and exciting projects that benefit the entire community.
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Unlock new models for value creation and distribution: DAOs enable more equitable and transparent distribution of revenue and ownership, rewarding creators fairly and supporting the sustainability of the creative ecosystem. This can attract and retain talent, leading to a more vibrant and dynamic creative sector.
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Expand access to global markets and funding: DAOs can connect creators and organizations with a global audience and facilitate access to alternative funding sources, such as crowdfunding, tokenized assets, and decentralized grants. This opens up new opportunities for growth, collaboration, and economic empowerment.
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Promote creative freedom and economic sustainability: DAOs reduce reliance on centralized platforms and institutions, protecting creative expression from censorship and control. They also promote economic sustainability by enabling communities to manage their resources and generate income collectively.
<u>A Glimpse into the Solution:</u>
<u>The 2025 DAO Incubator Program and DAO Cooperativa Local</u>
Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) hold immense potential to revolutionize how we organize, collaborate, and govern ourselves. However, many DAOs, especially those emerging from the vibrant cultural sector, struggle to scale and achieve real-world impact due to a lack of tailored guidance and resources. This is where our DAO Accelerator Program steps in.
Building upon the resounding success of our F11-funded DAO Incubator Program 2024, which empowered 8 cultural organizations to embrace DAOs on Cardano, we propose a comprehensive DAO Accelerator Program designed to propel these DAOs and others like them to new heights. This program provides focused support, mentorship, and resources to accelerate their growth, amplify their impact, and solidify their role within the Cardano ecosystem.
Before delving into the detailed phases of the program, let's take a quick look at the key features that make our solution unique:
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Increased Capacity and Reach: We're expanding our capacity to support 12 organizations and 30 workers in 2025, ensuring a wider reach and greater impact.
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Real-World Use Cases: We go beyond theoretical knowledge, guiding organizations to identify, design, and pilot DAO solutions that address their specific needs and challenges.
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Building on a Proven Foundation: We leverage the success and learnings from our Fund11-funded 2024 program, where we onboarded 8 organizations and refined our curriculum through real-world implementation.
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Comprehensive and Refined Curriculum: Our curriculum is meticulously updated to reflect the latest advancements in DAO technology and governance models, covering everything from DAO fundamentals to legal considerations.
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Hands-on Experience: Participants gain practical experience with Cardano-based DAO tools and Dapps, enabling them to confidently implement and manage their DAOs.
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Ongoing Support and Mentorship: We provide continued support and mentorship even after the program concludes, ensuring organizations have the guidance they need to thrive.
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Tailored Approach: We recognize that each organization is unique, so we tailor our program to meet their specific needs and challenges.
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Focus on the Latin American Context: Our program is rooted in the Latin American context, addressing the specific needs and opportunities within the region.
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Commitment to Cardano's Ecosystem: We leverage Cardano's strengths in security, scalability, and sustainability, guiding organizations in utilizing Cardano-based tools and Dapps.
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Evolution from Concept to Product: We've expanded our program to coveeverything from foundational knowledge to practical implementation, showcasing success stories, and providing ongoing support and acceleration opportunities through DAO Cooperativa Local.
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DAO Cooperativa Local: Our own DAO dedicated to supporting and accelerating the growth of decentralized organizations on Cardano. By joining DAO Cooperativa Local, program graduates gain access to a comprehensive suite of resources and support, including acceleration opportunities, enhanced showcasing, continued cooperation, and open governance.
<u>Bridging the Gap: Empowering Organizations with Knowledge and Support</u>
Our research, spanning over two years and involving collaboration with more than 200 cultural agents and organizations across various creative disciplines, has revealed a critical need for accessible and user-friendly DAO tools and educational programs. This need stems from a combination of factors:
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The prevalence of informality: Many organizations, especially in developing economies, operate outside of traditional structures, lacking access to essential resources, legal frameworks, and efficient management tools.
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Strong willingness to adopt new technologies: Organizations in the creative and entertainment industries are eager to embrace new technologies, particularly Web3 technologies, to achieve sustainable autonomy, overcome the challenges associated with traditional models, and unlock new opportunities for collaboration and value creation.
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Limited understanding of DAOs: There is a knowledge gap regarding the potential benefits and practical applications of DAOs within the creative and entertainment industries. Many creators and organizations are unfamiliar with the concept of decentralized governance and its potential to transform their work.
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Lack of accessible support: Organizations often lack the guidance and resources needed to effectively implement and manage DAOs. Navigating the technical complexities of blockchain technology, smart contracts, and tokenomics can be daunting, especially for those without a technical background.
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Difficulties in implementation: Despite this willingness, many organizations lack the guidance and support needed to effectively implement these solutions. They require a structured program that provides the necessary knowledge, tools, and mentorship to navigate the complexities of DAO creation and management.
This gap between desire and implementation is precisely what our DAO Incubator Program addresses. We bridge this gap by providing a comprehensive and accessible program that empowers organizations to embrace decentralized governance and unlock the full potential of Cardano-based DAOs.
<u>Know Our Partners Since Fund11:</u>
<u>Pioneering Platforms to Create and Manage DAOs on Cardano</u>
Our program is deeply integrated with the Cardano ecosystem, leveraging its strengths in security, scalability, and sustainability. We guide organizations in utilizing Cardano-based tools and dApps, contributing to the growth and adoption of the Cardano blockchain.
Central to this integration, are our 2024 DAO Incubation Program partners: Clarity Protocol and Summon Platform. These partnerships provide seamless DAO creation and management tools, offering participants access to cutting-edge technology and user-friendly platforms for building and managing their DAOs.
> <u>Clarity Protocol</u>: Empowering Communities with DAO Governance and Bounties
> Clarity Protocol offers a streamlined and user-friendly approach to DAO creation and management. It simplifies the process of setting up and running a DAO, providing intuitive tools for governance, treasury management, and community engagement.
Why Clarity Protocol is Suitable for Our Incubated and Accelerated Organizations: Clarity Protocol's ease of use and simplified approach make it an ideal starting point for organizations new to DAOs. Its intuitive interface and streamlined functionalities allow participants to quickly grasp the essentials of DAO creation and management, empowering them to establish their decentralized organizations with confidence. While it may not offer the same level of on-chain governance as Clarity Protocol, it provides a valuable stepping stone for organizations to explore the world of DAOs and gradually transition to more advanced platforms as they grow and mature.
> <u>Summon Platform</u>: Streamlining DAO Creation and Management
> Summon Platform is a powerful platform that enables DAOs to operate with complete on-chain governance. This means that all governance actions, including proposal creation, voting, and execution, are recorded and enforced through Cardano's blockchain. This ensures transparency, security, and immutability, giving DAO members confidence in the integrity of the decision-making process.
Why Summon Platform is Suitable for Our Incubated Organizations: Summon Platform's focus on on-chain governance aligns perfectly with our goal of empowering organizations and DAOs to embrace truly decentralized decision-making. Its comprehensive feature set provides the necessary tools for managing governance processes, while its user-friendly interface ensures accessibility for organizations with varying levels of technical expertise.
A Powerful Combination:
By partnering with both Clarity Protocol and Summon Platform, we offer a comprehensive suite of DAO tools and functionalities to our incubated and accelerated organizations. This allows us to tailor our support to their specific needs and provide them with the most suitable platform for their stage of development and governance requirements.
<u>Key Features and Enhancements: What Makes Our 2025 DAO Incubator Program Unique</u>
Our journey began with the successful completion of the first generation of our Fund11-funded 2024 DAO Incubator Program, where we already onboarded 4 influential organizations. We are currently in the process of onboarding a second generation of 4 organizations, which began the first week of October and will conclude the first week of December.
- This ongoing experience provides valuable insights that we will use to continuously improve our program execution, ensuring that we meet the milestones and deliverables outlined in this proposal. Building on this strong foundation and the lessons learned, we are now ready to launch the 2025 DAO Incubator Program as a fully-fledged "product," scaling our impact and expanding our reach within the Cardano ecosystem.
<u>Key Enhancements for 2025:</u>
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Enhanced Focus on Real-World Use Cases: We are transitioning from a focus on "case studies" to "use cases," empowering organizations to not only understand DAOs potential for them, but also utilize them to achieve tangible results and contribute to the Cardano ecosystem. This involves guiding them through the process of identifying, designing, piloting, and implementing DAO solutions that address their specific needs and challenges.
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Increased Capacity and Reach: We are expanding our capacity to support more participants, aiming to benefit 12 influential organizations and 30 workers in 2025, a 50% increase from our 2024 program. This will enable us to reach a wider audience and further solidify Cardano's position as a leading platform for decentralized governance.
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Updated Comprehensive Curriculum: We have meticulously updated our curriculum to reflect the latest developments in the DAO space and ensure its relevance to the Cardano ecosystem. This includes new materials and tutorials covering DAO fundamentals, governance models, tokenomics, legal considerations, and best practices.
<u>Here's what makes our 2025 DAO Incubator Program stand out:</u>
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Hands-on Experience: We go beyond theory by providing hands-on experience with Cardano-based DAO tools and Dapps. Participants gain practical skills and confidence in utilizing these technologies to manage their organizations, enabling them to implement and manage their DAOs effectively.
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Ongoing Support and Expert Mentorship: We offer continued support and mentorship even after the program concludes, ensuring that organizations have the guidance they need to successfully implement and scale their DAOs. Our experienced mentors provide personalized support, helping organizations navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities.
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Tailored Approach: We recognize that each organization is unique. We tailor our program to meet the specific needs and challenges of each participating organization, ensuring they receive the most relevant and impactful guidance. This involves understanding their context, goals, and technical capabilities to provide customized support and solutions.
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Commitment to Cardano's Ecosystem: Our program is deeply integrated with the Cardano ecosystem, leveraging its strengths in security, scalability, and sustainability. We guide organizations in utilizing Cardano-based tools and Dapps, contributing to the growth and adoption of the Cardano blockchain.
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Focus on the Latin American Context: Our program is rooted in the Latin American context, a region with significant potential for DAO adoption but also unique challenges. We leverage our deep understanding of this context to provide relevant guidance and support, addressing the specific needs and opportunities within the region.
<u>Evolution from Concept to Product</u>
While the following Phases 1 and 2 retain the core structure of our Fund11 program, they have been significantly enhanced based on participant feedback and the latest advancements in DAO technology and governance models. We have refined the curriculum, expanded the hands-on activities, and incorporated new tools and platforms to provide a more comprehensive and engaging learning experience.
In addition, we have introduced three new phases (Phases 3, 4 and 5) to this product version of the program. These phases focus on translating theoretical knowledge into practical implementation, showcasing success stories, and providing ongoing support and acceleration opportunities. This evolution reflects our commitment to not only educating organizations about DAOs but also empowering them to effectively utilize these tools to achieve their goals and contribute to the growth of the Cardano ecosystem.
This comprehensive and evolved program sets us apart, ensuring that participants gain the knowledge, skills, and support they need to successfully navigate the world of DAOs and become active contributors to the decentralized future.
<u>Phase 1: Laying the Groundwork: A Deep Dive into DAOs and Web3 Fundamentals</u>
Additional context for Milestones Review: This Phase includes the Milestones Outputs titled as “Onboard” and “Educate”, referring to the phases that cohorts of organizations will go through within the Program.
Building a Solid Foundation: This phase provides participants with a comprehensive introduction to the core concepts of DAOs and Web3 technologies. We cover the fundamental principles, underlying technologies, and key considerations for building and managing decentralized organizations, ensuring that participants have a strong foundation for the subsequent phases of the program. Key Modules:
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Organizational Governance: We begin by exploring the fundamentals of organizational governance, using real-world examples and case studies (like "La casa de las Flores") to illustrate key concepts such as purpose, values, stakeholder dynamics, and the agent-principal dilemma. Participants gain a deep understanding of how traditional organizations function and the challenges they face, setting the stage for exploring the benefits of decentralized governance.
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Decentralized Governance: We then delve into the principles of decentralized governance, contrasting it with traditional models and highlighting its advantages in terms of transparency, accountability, and community engagement. Participants learn about key concepts such as the free-rider problem, consensus mechanisms, and the role of smart contracts in automating governance processes.
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Blockchain and Autonomous Technologies: This module provides a comprehensive introduction to blockchain technology, the foundation of Web3 and DAOs. Participants learn about the key features of blockchain, including immutability, transparency, and security. We also explore the concept of autonomous technologies, including smart contracts and decentralized applications (Dapps), and their role in enabling decentralized organizations.
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Tokens and Web3 Ecosystems: We demystify the world of tokens and their role in Web3 ecosystems. Participants learn about different types of tokens, including fungible and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and their various applications within DAOs. We also compare Web1, Web2, and Web3, highlighting the evolution of the internet and the transformative potential of decentralized technologies.
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Decentralized Autonomous Organizations and Tokenomics: This module brings together the previous concepts, providing a comprehensive overview of DAOs and their inner workings. Participants learn about the interplay between DAOs and token economies, exploring how tokens can be used to govern DAOs, incentivize participation, and distribute value within the organization.
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Expert-Led Workshops: To further enrich the learning experience, we conduct specialized workshops led by experts in Web3, blockchain technology, and decentralized governance. These workshops provide deeper insights into specific topics and address the unique challenges and opportunities within the Latin American context.
Transitioning to Practical Implementation: By the end of Phase 1, participants will have a solid understanding of the foundational concepts of DAOs and Web3 technologies. This prepares them for Phase 2, where they will gain practical experience using Cardano DAO Dapps and begin exploring the implementation of DAOs within their own organizations.
<u>Phase 2: Immersive Experience: Testing and Training Governance with Cardano DAO Dapps</u>
Additional context for Milestones Review: This Phase includes the Milestones Outputs titled as “Integrate” and “Train”, referring to the phases that cohorts of organizations will go through within the Program.
Hands-On Learning and Practical Application: This phase provides participants with an immersive, hands-on experience using real-world Cardano DAO Dapps. We guide them through the process of DAO creation, governance design, and tokenomics, empowering them with the practical skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage decentralized organizations. Key Activities:
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Onboarding to Cardano DAO Dapps: We begin by onboarding participants to leading Cardano DAO platforms, such as Clarity Protocol and Summon Platform. This includes providing a comprehensive overview of Cardano's blockchain technology and the specific functionalities of each platform. Participants engage in hands-on activities, creating and joining organizations, configuring parameters, and familiarizing themselves with the user interface.
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Exploring Quests and Rewards: Participants delve into the practical applications of DAOs by exploring quests and rewards systems within the Clarity Platform. They learn how to create and participate in quests, allocate rewards, and incentivize community engagement within their DAOs.
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Testing Governance Events: To gain a deep understanding of DAO governance in action, participants actively test governance events within the Clarity Platform. They create and participate in proposals, voting processes, and other governance actions, gaining firsthand experience with the decision-making mechanisms that underpin decentralized organizations.
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Understanding Ágora DAOs: We introduce participants to the concept of Ágora DAOs, a powerful framework for decentralized governance within the Cardano ecosystem. They learn about the role of governance tokens, the structure of Ágora DAOs, and how these innovative tools can be leveraged to enhance the effectiveness and transparency of their organizations.
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DAO Case Studies and Best Practices: Participants examine real-world examples of successful DAOs, analyzing their strategies, governance models, and key performance indicators. This provides valuable insights and inspiration for their own DAO implementations.
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Expert-Led Workshops: To complement the hands-on activities, we conduct specialized workshops led by experts in DAO governance, tokenomics, and Cardano's blockchain technology. These workshops cover topics such as:
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Cardano Governance and its Applications: Experts provide a deep dive into Cardano's on-chain governance mechanisms and how they can be leveraged by DAOs for effective decision-making. Participants gain a comprehensive understanding of how Cardano's unique governance framework can empower their DAOs and contribute to the overall health and development of the ecosystem.
Transitioning to Use Case Design: By the end of Phase 2, participants will have a solid foundation in DAO creation, governance, and tokenomics, along with practical experience using Cardano DAO Dapps. This prepares them for the next phase, where they will transition from testing and training to designing and piloting their own DAO use cases.
<u>Phase 3: Promoting DAO Case Studies: Designing, Piloting and Refining DAO Implementations</u>
Additional context for Milestones Review: This Phase includes the Milestones Output titled as “Model”, referring to the phases that cohorts of organizations will go through within the Program.
Bridging Theory and Practice: This phase marks a crucial turning point in the program, where participants transition from absorbing knowledge to applying it in a practical setting. We shift gears from exploring theoretical case studies to guiding organizations in developing and implementing their own real-world DAO use cases on Cardano. This hands-on experience solidifies their understanding of DAOs and empowers them to contribute meaningfully to the Cardano ecosystem. Key Activities:
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Identifying Optimal Use Cases: Through collaborative workshops and individualized consultations, we will work with each organization to identify the most impactful DAO use case for their specific context. This will involve analyzing their current challenges, exploring potential applications of DAOs, and assessing the feasibility and potential impact of different use cases.
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Individualized Consultations: Our experienced mentors will provide personalized guidance to each organization, helping them analyze their specific challenges, identify areas where DAOs can provide solutions, and assess the feasibility and potential impact of different use cases. This tailored approach ensures that the chosen use case aligns perfectly with the organization's needs and strategic goals.
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Feasibility and Impact Assessment: W will guide organizations in conducting a thorough assessment of the feasibility and potential impact of their chosen use case. This involves evaluating the technical requirements, resource availability, and potential risks and benefits associated with the implementation. This rigorous assessment ensures that the chosen use case is not only impactful but also realistic and achievable within the organization's context.
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Designing Pilot Implementations: Once the optimal use case is identified, we will guide organizations in designing a pilot implementation of their DAO. This will involve defining the DAO's structure, governance mechanisms, tokenomics, and key functionalities, ensuring alignment with their overall organizational goals and the principles of decentralized governance.
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Defining DAO Structure: We'll guide organizations in defining the structure of their DAO, including membership criteria, roles and responsibilities, and decision-making processes. This ensures a clear and well-defined framework for their decentralized organization.
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Establishing Governance Mechanisms: Participants will learn how to establish effective governance mechanisms for their DAO, including proposal submission, voting procedures, and dispute resolution processes. We'll explore different governance models, such as token-weighted voting, quadratic voting, and liquid democracy, helping organizations choose the most suitable model for their needs.
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Developing Tokenomics: We'll guide organizations in designing the tokenomics of their DAO, including token distribution, utility, and governance mechanisms. This involves determining how tokens will be used to incentivize participation, reward contributions, and govern the DAO's operations.
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Piloting and Refining: Organizations will then pilot their DAO implementations in a controlled environment, allowing them to test functionalities, gather feedback, and refine their approach before full-scale deployment. This iterative process ensures that the final DAO implementation is robust, effective, and tailored to their specific needs.
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Gathering Feedback: We'll encourage organizations to actively solicit feedback from their members and stakeholders during the pilot phase. This feedback will provide valuable insights into the DAO's effectiveness, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that the final implementation meets the needs of its users.
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Iterative Refinement: Based on the feedback received, organizations will iteratively refine their DAO implementation, adjusting its structure, governance, and functionalities to optimize its performance and achieve its intended goals. This iterative approach ensures that the final DAO implementation is robust, user-friendly, and tailored to the specific needs of the organization.
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Expert-Led Workshops: To complement the hands-on activities and provide specialized guidance, we'll conduct workshops led by experts in DAO design, implementation, and governance. These workshops will delve deeper into critical aspects of DAO development:
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Advanced Tokenomics and Incentive Design: Participants explore advanced tokenomics strategies and incentive design principles, learning how to effectively utilize tokens to govern their DAOs, incentivize participation, and achieve their organizational goals.
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Legal and Regulatory Considerations for DAOs: Experts provide insights into the evolving legal and regulatory landscape surrounding DAOs, helping participants understand potential challenges and ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
By the end of Phase 3, participating organizations will have a fully functional pilot DAO implementation ready for launch. This pilot serves as a proof of concept, demonstrating the value and feasibility of their DAO use case and preparing them for the next stage: acceleration.
<u>Phase 4: Preparing for Acceleration: A Two-Tiered Approach to convert DAO Case Studies into Real-World Viral Use Cases</u>
Additional context for Milestones Review: This Phase includes the Milestones Outputs titled as “Graduate”, referring to the phases that cohorts of organizations will go through within the Program.
To maximize the impact of our program, we've designed a two-tiered approach to acceleration:
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Decentralized Acceleration through DAO Cooperativa Local: All organizations participating in the incubation program will be invited to join DAO Cooperativa Local (described in Phase 5). This decentralized autonomous organization provides a platform for ongoing support, collaboration, and access to valuable resources. By joining DAO Cooperativa Local, organizations can leverage the collective knowledge and expertise of the community, access funding opportunities, and further develop their DAO projects.
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Targeted Acceleration for High-Potential DAOs: In addition to the decentralized acceleration offered through DAO Cooperativa Local, we will also select a limited number of organizations with the most promising DAO use cases for targeted acceleration. This intensive program, detailed in our companion Catalyst proposal "ACCELERATE DAOs," will provide expert guidance, mentorship, and resources to help these organizations scale their impact and become flagship examples of successful DAO implementations on Cardano.
Why a Two-Tiered Approach?
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This two-tiered approach allows us to maximize our impact by providing a baseline level of support to all participants while strategically focusing resources on those DAOs with the greatest potential to drive Cardano adoption and demonstrate the real-world value of decentralized governance.
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It's important to note that implementing and scaling DAOs is a complex process, and not all organizations will be ready for rapid acceleration. By offering two tiers of support, we ensure that all participants receive the necessary guidance and resources to succeed, while also providing targeted support to those with the highest potential for impact.
Addressing the Urgency of Acceleration
We currently have 8 organizations that have completed or are nearing the completion of our 2024 incubation program. These organizations are eager to move forward with their DAO implementations and require timely support to maintain momentum and achieve their goals. Our two-tiered approach allows us to address this urgency by providing immediate support through DAO Cooperativa Local while simultaneously preparing for the launch of our targeted acceleration program in 2025.
By 2025, we aim to have incubated a total of 20 organizations. To further accelerate their growth and showcase their achievements, we envision a future where the showcasing and viralizing of these DAOs is managed and proposed in a decentralized manner.
Therefore, our other main goal for 2025 is a DAO Phygital Festival to be managed by us for R&D purposes, but also, gradually governed by the very ecosystem Cardano has helped us to build.
The following is also an initiative we are seeking to be supported by the community within the Fund13 Cardano Ecosystem.
It aims to showcase the case studies and use cases of DAOs incubated by us, broadcasting Cardano's vital role in the arts, culture, and society, highlighting the transformative power of DAOs.
As you delve into the details of this Incubation program -that you are currently reading- then, we also encourage you to explore our complimentary proposal, and evaluate your support to it.
Your support and involvement are essential for our proposals power, as it is your participation on DAO Cooperativa Local. Thus, we deeply appreciate you taking the time to review this proposal, and the other mentioned. Your careful consideration and hopeful vote of support are crucial to embrace our inspiration: Voltaire.
In conclusion, after you finish reviewing this full proposal submission, and continuing further bellow to review the other main components of it, we invite you to also review, and -hopefully- support our other proposal with your vote.
<u>Phase 5: Decentralized Acceleration supported by DAO Cooperativa Local</u>
Additional context for Milestones Review: This Phase includes the Milestones Outputs titled as “Onboard”, referring to the phases that cohorts of organizations will go through within the Program.
Join DAO Cooperativa Local: We will invite participating organizations to join DAO Cooperativa Local, our own DAO dedicated to fostering a thriving ecosystem for decentralized organizations on Cardano. By joining our DAO, program graduates gain access to a comprehensive suite of resources and support designed to accelerate their growth and maximize their impact. This includes:
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Acceleration Opportunities: We will actively connect organizations with potential partners, collaborators, and investors within the Cardano ecosystem. This will help them secure funding, expand their networks, and access valuable resources to further develop their DAO projects and achieve their goals. We will also provide ongoing mentorship and guidance, leveraging our expertise to help them navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities.
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Enhanced Showcasing: We will continue to promote the achievements and successes of our DAO graduates through various channels, including our website, social media platforms, and industry events. This increased visibility will help them attract new members, gain recognition for their work, and further establish their presence within the Cardano community.
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Continued Cooperation: We foster a collaborative environment where organizations can continue to learn from each other, share best practices, and contribute to the collective knowledge base of the DAO ecosystem. This ongoing cooperation ensures that they remain at the forefront of DAO innovation and benefit from the shared experiences of the community.
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Gradual Open Governance and Shared Value: DAO Cooperativa Local is poised to operate on the principles of open governance, ensuring that all members have a voice in shaping the direction of the DAO and its initiatives. This participatory approach fosters greater project sustainability and ensures that the benefits are shared widely. We are committed to building a self-sustaining ecosystem where the community takes ownership of its future and continues to drive innovation and adoption long after the completion of this project.
<u>Key Features of DAO Cooperativa Local</u>
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Ongoing Support and Mentorship: We will continue to support participating organizations after they complete the program, providing guidance and resources to help them implement their DAO projects and overcome any challenges they may face. Our experienced mentors will offer personalized advice and support, ensuring that organizations have the necessary tools and knowledge to thrive in the decentralized world.
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Collaborative Learning Environment: We understand an organization as a workspace made up of agents from different disciplines who bring complementary perspectives. Our purpose is to promote the exchange of expertise. Our program fosters a collaborative learning environment where participants from diverse backgrounds can share their knowledge and experiences, contributing to a richer and more comprehensive understanding of DAOs and their applications.
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Networking and Collaboration: We will actively facilitate connections and collaborations between organizations, connecting them with potential partners, collaborators, and investors within the Cardano ecosystem. This will foster a supportive network for DAO development and growth, enabling organizations to leverage the collective power of the community to achieve their goals.
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Scalable Model for Cardano Adoption: We are committed to creating a sustainable and scalable model for driving Cardano adoption across multiple sectors. By empowering organizations to effectively utilize DAOs and decentralized technologies, we will contribute to the growth and development of the Cardano ecosystem, expanding its reach and impact on a global scale.
By joining DAO Cooperativa Local, organizations become part of a vibrant and supportive community dedicated to driving the adoption of decentralized governance and unlocking the full potential of Cardano's blockchain technology.