Please describe your proposed solution.

The problem we perceived is poor participation of developers from outside the Cardano community, this problem restricts the growth and innovation potential of the Cardano ecosystem.

To overcome this, we propose organizing practical workshops at partnering universities. These workshops will attract and engage external developers, providing hands-on training and support. By fostering inclusivity and collaboration, we aim to make Cardano their preferred platform for dApp development. These workshops will end in two hacktons, in two universities in mexico.

The impact will be evident in increased external developer participation, collaborative projects, and measurable growth on Cardano. This unique solution empowers developers, strengthens Cardano's position as a leading blockchain platform, and drives real-world adoption.

How does your proposed solution address the challenge and what benefits will this bring to the Cardano ecosystem?

Our solution addresses the pressing challenge of limited participation of developers from outside the Cardano community, currently, there exists a barrier that hinders the engagement of external developers, preventing Cardano from fully leveraging their diverse perspectives.

This solution brings several benefits to the Cardano ecosystem. Firstly, it fosters inclusivity and diversity by attracting developers from different backgrounds and experiences, enriching the community with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.

Secondly, the solution enhances the growth and adoption of Cardano by making it the preferred choice for developers. By providing targeted education and hands-on support, we empower developers to overcome barriers and effectively utilize the Cardano development ecosystem

Lastly, our solution contributes to the long-term sustainability and evolution of the Cardano ecosystem. By nurturing a vibrant developer community, we create a positive feedback loop of innovation.

How do you intend to measure the success of your project?

The impact of our proposal can be quantified by the number of workshops conducted and the resulting increase in developer engagement. With the allocated funds, we estimate conducting 12 workshops, 6 for each university (2 alliances), reaching and training approximately 100 developers. This increased participation will foster a more inclusive and diverse developer community, injecting new talent and perspectives into the Cardano ecosystem.

These quantifiable outcomes demonstrate the value our proposal brings to the Cardano ecosystem. By empowering external developers and strengthening their connection to Cardano, we foster innovation, enhance the ecosystem's capabilities, and attract more developers to build on Cardano

Please describe your plans to share the outputs and results of your project?

To ensure the maximum dissemination of our project's outputs and results, we have developed a comprehensive plan that focuses on sharing the impact and opportunities arising from our completed project.

1. Documentation and Reports: We will create detailed documentation and reports that capture the key learnings, best practices, and outcomes of the workshops. These resources will be made available online, accessible to the public, and shared through official Cardano channels.

2.Collaborative Networks: We will actively engage with existing developer networks, blockchain communities, and university partnerships to share the outputs and impact of our project.

What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability?

I have a proven track record of delivering projects with high levels of trust and accountability within the Cardano ecosystem. My past experiences, including organizing the CIP 1694 workshops in Mexico City and the University of Tlaxcala, as well as participating in the final workshop in Edinburgh, demonstrate my capability to plan, coordinate, and execute successful events.

Moreover, I have previously received funding from Catalyst in Fund 7 for my project supporting small farmers in Latin America. This experience showcases my ability to manage funds responsibly and deliver on project goals with transparency.

Collaborating with Emurgo Academy for the Emurgo 360 workshop further highlights my ability to work with established entities within the Cardano ecosystem. This collaboration allowed me to leverage existing resources and deliver impactful educational initiatives.

What are the main goals for the project and how will you validate if your approach is feasible?

The main goals of this project are as follows:

1. Increase External Developer Participation: The primary objective is to attract and engage developers from outside the Cardano community to actively participate in Catalyst and choose Cardano as their preferred platform for dApp development.
2. Foster a Diverse and Inclusive Developer Community: Another goal is to create a diverse and inclusive developer community within Cardano by reaching out to developers from different backgrounds, experiences, and geographic locations.
3. Drive Innovation and Collaboration: Encouraging innovation and collaboration among developers is an essential goal. By providing targeted education, resources, and support, we aim to foster a collaborative environment where developers can exchange ideas and create groundbreaking dApps on Cardano.

Validating the feasibility of our approach will involve the following steps:

1. Measure Increased External Developer Participation: We will track the number of developers from outside the Cardano community who actively participate in Catalyst, join our workshops, and contribute to the development of dApps on Cardano. This quantitative measurement will validate the success of attracting external talent.
2. Assess Community Diversity and Inclusion: We will evaluate the diversity and inclusivity of the developer community by monitoring the participation of developers from different backgrounds and geographic regions. This will provide insights into the effectiveness of our efforts in creating a more diverse and inclusive ecosystem.
3. Monitor Collaboration and Innovation: We will assess the level of collaboration and innovation within the community by tracking the number of collaborative projects initiated, the level of knowledge sharing, and the implementation of innovative ideas. This qualitative measurement will demonstrate the success of our approach in fostering collaboration and driving innovation.

Please provide a detailed breakdown of your project’s milestones and each of the main tasks or activities to reach the milestone plus the expected timeline for the delivery.

Detailed breakdown of the project's milestones, main tasks, expected timeline, and success criteria, structured within an 6-month time frame:

1. University Partnerships Formalization:

• Task: Finalize the formal agreements with the 2 partnering universities.
• Timeline: Month 1.
• Success Criteria: Signed and finalized agreements with the universities.

2.Workshop Curriculum and Content Development:

• Task: Plan and develop the curriculum for the 12 virtual workshops (6 workshops per university), focusing on blockchain fundamentals and key tools in the Cardano ecosystem.
• Timeline: Months 2-3.
• Success Criteria: Completed curriculum and content for all 12 virtual workshops.

3.Expert Instructors Invitation:

• Task: Identify and invite expert instructors who specialize in the Cardano development tools to deliver virtual workshops.
• Timeline: Month 2-3.
• Success Criteria: Confirmed participation of expert instructors.

4.Workshop Execution - University 1 (Virtual Workshops):

• Task: Conduct 6 virtual workshops at University 1, covering various aspects of Cardano development and dApp creation.
• Timeline: Months 4-5.
• Success Criteria: Successful completion of the virtual workshops, positive feedback from participants.

5.Workshop Execution - University 2 (Virtual Workshops):

• Task: Conduct 6 virtual workshops at University 2, covering various aspects of Cardano development and dApp creation.
• Timeline: Months 4-5.
• Success Criteria: Successful completion of the virtual workshops, positive feedback from participants.

1. Hackathon Preparation - University 1:

• Task: Plan and prepare for the hackathon at University 1, including defining themes, challenges, and logistics.
• Timeline: Months 6.
• Success Criteria: Fully planned and organized hackathon event at University 1.

1. Hackathon Preparation - University 2:

• Task: Plan and prepare for the hackathon at University 2, including defining themes, challenges, and logistics.
• Timeline: Months 6.
• Success Criteria: Fully planned and organized hackathon event at University 2.

1. Hackathon Execution - University 1:

• Task: Conduct the hackathon event at University 1, bringing participants together to collaborate and build innovative dApps on the Cardano platform.
• Timeline: Months 7.
• Success Criteria: Successful completion of the hackathon event, showcasing innovative dApps created during the event.

1. Hackathon Execution - University 2:

• Task: Conduct the hackathon event at University 2, bringing participants together to collaborate and build innovative dApps on the Cardano platform.
• Timeline: Months 7.
• Success Criteria: Successful completion of the hackathon event, showcasing innovative dApps created during the event.

1. Reporting and Feedback Analysis:

• Task: Collect feedback from workshop participants and hackathon participants, analyze the data, and prepare comprehensive reports.
• Timeline: Months 8.
• Success Criteria: Detailed reports highlighting key findings, insights, and recommendations.

1. Project Closure and Final Deliverables:

• Task: Prepare the final project report, including all deliverables, outcomes, and learnings from the workshops and hackathons.
• Timeline: Months 8.
• Success Criteria: Completed project report with all required deliverables.

Additional Milestones (as suggested):

• Initial Planning and Resource Allocation: Month 1.
• Coordination with University Administrations: Months 2-3.
• Workshop Logistics and Materials Preparation: Months 4-5.
• Continuous Communication and Support throughout Workshops: Months 5-8.

Please describe the deliverables, outputs and intended outcomes of each milestone.

1. University Partnerships Formalization:

• Deliverables: Signed and finalized agreements with the 2 partnering universities.
• Outputs: Established partnerships that outline the commitment and collaboration between the project team and the universities.
• Intended Outcome: Strengthened relationships with universities, ensuring their active participation and support throughout the project.

2.Workshop Curriculum and Content Development:

• Deliverables: Completed curriculum and content for the 12 virtual workshops (6 workshops per university).
• Outputs: Well-structured workshop materials, including presentations, handouts, and exercises, tailored to the needs of participants.
• Intended Outcome: A comprehensive curriculum that provides a clear learning path for participants and equips them with the necessary knowledge to develop on the Cardano platform.

3.Expert Instructors Invitation:

• Deliverables: Confirmed participation of expert instructors.
• Outputs: Agreements and arrangements with expert instructors to deliver virtual workshops and provide guidance.
• Intended Outcome: Access to experienced professionals who can effectively teach participants how to use Cardano development tools, ensuring high-quality training and support.

4.Workshop Execution - University 1 (Virtual Workshops):

• Deliverables: Successful completion of 6 virtual workshops at University 1, covering various aspects of Cardano development and dApp creation.
• Outputs: Engaged and knowledgeable participants who have gained practical skills in using Cardano development tools.
• Intended Outcome: Empowered developers who are capable of building dApps on Cardano and are motivated to further contribute to the ecosystem.

5.Workshop Execution - University 2 (Virtual Workshops):

• Deliverables: Successful completion of 6 virtual workshops at University 2, covering various aspects of Cardano development and dApp creation.
• Outputs: Engaged and knowledgeable participants who have gained practical skills in using Cardano development tools.
• Intended Outcome: Empowered developers who are capable of building dApps on Cardano and are motivated to further contribute to the ecosystem.

6.Hackathon Preparation - University 1 & 2:

• Deliverables: Well-planned and organized hackathons event at University 1 & 2, including defined themes, challenges, and logistics.
• Outputs: Prepared infrastructure, guidelines, and resources for participants to collaborate and develop innovative dApps during the hackathons.
• Intended Outcome: An engaging and productive hackathons event that fosters creativity, collaboration, and showcases the potential of Cardano for dApp development.

7.Hackathon Execution - University 1 & 2:

• Deliverables: Successful completion of the hackathons event at University 1 & 2, including the development and presentation of innovative dApps by participants.
• Outputs: Demonstrable dApps created during the hackathons that showcase the capabilities of Cardano and the skills of the participants.
• Intended Outcome: Recognition of the participants' achievements, fostering a sense of accomplishment, and motivating them to continue building on the Cardano platform.

8.Reporting and Feedback Analysis:

• Deliverables: Detailed reports highlighting key findings, insights, and recommendations based on participant feedback from workshops and hackathons.
• Outputs: Comprehensive analysis of participant feedback, including strengths, areas for improvement, and suggestions for future workshops and events.
• Intended Outcome: Actionable insights to refine future workshop iterations, enhance the learning experience, and strengthen the engagement of developers within the Cardano ecosystem.

9.Project Closure and Final Deliverables:

• Deliverables: Completed project report, including documentation of the entire project lifecycle, outcomes, and lessons learned.
• Outputs: A comprehensive report that showcases the project's achievements, challenges faced, and recommendations for future similar initiatives.
• Intended Outcome: Knowledge sharing and dissemination of project experiences to benefit the Cardano community, provide transparency, and guide future projects in building upon this foundation.

Please provide a detailed budget breakdown of the proposed work and resources.

1. Workshop Curriculum and Content Development:

• Content Creation: 3,000 ADA

2.Expert Instructors Invitation:

• Expert Honorariums: 15,000 ADAPayment for expert instructors delivering virtual workshops and providing guidance.

3.Hackathon Preparation - University 1:

• Hackathon Logistics: 5,000 ADA

4.Hackathon Preparation - University 2:

• Hackathon Logistics: 5,000 ADA

5.Hackathon Execution - University 1:

• Hackathon Event: 22,500 ADACovers participant incentives, event logistics, technical support, and expert travel expenses.

6.Hackathon Execution - University 2:

• Hackathon Event: 22,500 ADACovers participant incentives, event logistics, technical support, and expert travel expenses.

7.Reporting and Feedback Analysis:

• Data Analysis Tools: 1,500 ADA
• Documentation and Report Writing: 500 ADA

8,Project Closure and Final Deliverables:

• Project Management: 3,000 ADA
• Documentation and Reporting: 1,500 ADA

9.Contingency Fund (15% of total budget): 14,175 ADA

Total Budget: 94,500 ADA

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

This project, we have two responsible individuals: Cristian Rojas and Victor Hernandez Bonilla. Cristian Rojas has been actively involved in the Cardano community for over two years and has successfully received funding from Catalyst in the past, delivering the project as planned. Victor Hernandez Bonilla has joined the team and together we have successfully organized and conducted the CIP 1694 workshop with a university here in Mexico. Additionally, we have both been actively engaged in the Latam Cardano community and were part of the team that successfully organized the CIP 1694 workshop in Uruguay. Our combined experience and track record demonstrate our commitment, expertise, and ability to effectively carry out the proposed project.

In addition, to deliver the virtual workshops, we will be collaborating with experts in Cardano's development tools. These experts will bring their in-depth knowledge and experience to guide participants through the workshops effectively. Moreover, for the hackathons, we plan to invite individuals from the Cardano community, as well as participants from outside the ecosystem. This diverse participation aims to foster global adoption of Cardano by bringing in fresh perspectives and ideas. By involving experts and participants from various backgrounds, we can create a more inclusive and collaborative environment that supports the growth and adoption of Cardano on a global scale.

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

1. Reasonable Cost Allocation: The project's budget has been carefully considered and allocated to essential elements required for the successful execution of workshops and achievement of project goals. The costs have been determined based on industry standards, market rates, and the specific needs of the project.
2. Value of Expertise: The inclusion of expert instructors ensures high-quality training and guidance for participants. The costs associated with expert instructors are justified by their specialized knowledge and experience in the Cardano development tools. Their expertise adds significant value to the workshops and enhances the learning experience for participants.
3. Impactful Engagement: The workshops aim to attract and engage developers from the Latin American (LatAm) region, where there is a growing interest in blockchain technology. By providing practical training and support in the Cardano ecosystem, the project promotes developer adoption and empowers the LatAm community to actively contribute to the Cardano ecosystem.
4. Localization and Inclusion: The project's focus on delivering workshops in the LatAm region, specifically in universities, reflects a commitment to local engagement and inclusivity. By providing content in Spanish and partnering with universities, the project aims to bridge language and accessibility barriers, making Cardano more accessible and attractive to a broader audience.
5. Sustainable Cost Structure: The project's budget aligns with the desired outcomes and represents a sustainable cost structure. The costs have been reviewed based on local economic factors, market rates, and the average wage levels in the region, ensuring a reasonable and proportional allocation of resources.

Through the careful justification of costs and the project's focus on providing value to the Cardano ecosystem, the proposed budget represents a sound investment that maximizes the impact of the project within the allocated funds. The value-for-money approach ensures that the project delivers tangible outcomes, fosters developer engagement, and strengthens the Cardano ecosystem in the LatAm region.