Please describe your proposed solution

UVerify is a product which will create verifiable data - a user can take any text or file and associate any metadata to the input and create a verifiable trust certificate. The metadata and the file or text hashes are not stored as transaction metadata, but within a datum and could be used as an on-chain oracle.

The verifable trust certificate created can be verified using the same UVerify platform. A templating engine will allow the seamless integration of UVerify in any existing product or process.

The UVerify platform exists currently only in the preprod testnet and is being used for various pilot use-cases. See: https://uverify.io

The funding from Catalyst will allow us to the following:

1. Migration to mainnet
2. Integration with an apparel manufacturer / SaaS business
3. Smart contract changes to enable the oracle-based one-off minting process
4. UI template integration effectively allowing the tool to be white labled by customers
5. Open sourcing the dapp frontend to scale the ui template implementation
6. Implementing SDKs for Python, JavaScript/TypeScript and Java

Advantages of Using Datum Metadata Format:

• Machine-Readable Schema:

The datum metadata format ensures that UVerify metadata is always machine-readable because it follows a specific schema. In contrast, traditional transaction metadata might not follow a standard, making it less reliable.

• Oracle Functionality:

Trust certificate data can be used as reference inputs for other validators on the blockchain, acting like an oracle. This is particularly useful for our partnership with merchandise companies.

• Trust Certificates for Merchandise:

Our partners at Merchandise can create a trust certificate for their manufacturing process on the blockchain without minting an asset, avoiding it being classified as a security. Approved partners can still use the UVerify trust certificate to mint an NFT linked to the certificate and the physical product. Although the datum would be used during the minting process, ensuring a one-off mint, the certificate would remain in the ledger history and could be accessed through the UVerify scoped chain indexer.

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

The UVerify project will have a significant positive impact on the wider Cardano community in several key ways:

1. Expands Cardano's use case: By introducing a robust digital certification and verification solution, UVerify broadens Cardano's utility beyond traditional cryptocurrency applications. This diversification strengthens the ecosystem and demonstrates Cardano's versatility in solving real-world problems.
2. Attracts institutional players: UVerify provides a blockchain solution that doesn't require direct cryptocurrency exposure, making it attractive to institutions and businesses that have been hesitant to adopt blockchain technology. This can lead to increased adoption and integration of Cardano in various sectors.
3. Enhances ecosystem trustworthiness: By leveraging Cardano's security and immutability for data certification, UVerify reinforces the overall trustworthiness of the Cardano ecosystem. This can improve public perception and confidence in the platform.
4. Drives innovation: The project can inspire further development of similar solutions on Cardano, fostering a culture of innovation within the community.
5. Increases network activity: As more entities use UVerify, it will lead to increased transaction volume on the Cardano network, potentially driving up the value and utility of ADA.

<u>Measurement of Impact:</u>

1. Quantitative Metrics:

• Track the number of UVerify transactions and the generated transaction fees
• Monitor adoption rates across different industries
• Analyze the volume and types of data being certified on the platform
• Measure the increase in overall Cardano network activity correlated with UVerify usage

1. Qualitative Assessments:

• Conduct user surveys to gauge satisfaction and perceived value
• Collect case studies from institutional adopters to understand real-world impact
• Monitor mentions and sentiment in media and social platforms regarding UVerify and its impact on Cardano

<u>Sharing Outputs and Opportunities:</u>

1. Regular community updates: Publish monthly or quarterly reports on the project's progress, including key metrics and milestones.
2. Open-source contributions: Share relevant code and improvements with the Cardano developer community to foster collaboration and further innovation.
3. Educational content: Create tutorials, webinars, and documentation to help others understand and potentially build upon the UVerify platform.
4. Industry partnerships: Collaborate with relevant industries to showcase use cases and create opportunities for wider adoption.
5. Conference presentations: Share findings and insights at blockchain and industry-specific conferences to raise awareness and attract potential users.
6. Academic collaboration: Partner with universities or research institutions to study the impact of blockchain-based certification systems, using UVerify as a case study.

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

Our team possesses a unique blend of expertise in blockchain technology and enterprise solutions, making us ideally suited to deliver the UVerify project with high levels of trust and accountability:

Strong technical background:

• Extensive experience in developing user-friendly blockchain interfaces
• Proven track record in creating scalable and secure enterprise solutions

Regulatory expertise:

• In-depth understanding of compliance requirements across various industries
• Experience in navigating complex regulatory landscapes

Industry connections:

• Established relationships with potential enterprise clients
• Network of advisors and partners in relevant sectors

To validate our approach's feasibility, we have:

1. Developed and tested a working prototype with select partners
2. Conducted thorough scalability assessments to ensure the system can handle high verification volumes
3. Engaged in ongoing dialogue with potential users to refine features and usability

Our commitment to proper fund management is demonstrated through:

1. Transparent financial reporting: Regular updates on fund allocation and project expenses
2. Milestone-based fund release structure to ensure accountability

More on the team…

Fabian Bormann is an expert in neuroinformatics, bioinformatics, and blockchain technology. He started his career at the Fraunhofer Institute of Marine Biotechnology and later worked as an AI Engineer and Fullstack Developer at Volkswagen.

In 2022, Fabian joined the Cardano Foundation. Since 2020, he has been active in the Ethereum ecosystem and moved on to the Cardano ecosystem in 2021. He created services like WalkinWallet and Meerkat, which led to the development of CIP-45, also known as Cardano Connect.

Fabian is passionate about using blockchain to create secure and scalable solutions.

• <u>Important note about my person:</u> Please note that notwithstanding any association with the Cardano Foundation, this submission is made solely in my personal capacity and on my own behalf and account.

Riz Pabani is a strategist with expertise in technology, project management, and strategic planning. With a rich background spanning financial services, blockchain, enterprise, and government sectors, he excels in driving operational excellence and integrating innovative technologies. His deep passion for the revolutionary impact of blockchain and artificial intelligence underscores his commitment to redefining business practices.

Sacha Windisch is an accomplished entrepreneur with over two decades of experience spanning management consulting, technology, Finance and blockchain. His career reflects a blend of strategic innovation and operational excellence. His expertise in leveraging technology for business transformation makes him an ideal figure to lead our initiatives in the Americas.

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

Milestone 1: Milestone Outputs

• UVerify dApp open-sourcing
• Contract upgrades to support the oracle solution
• Collaborative overlay on top of the validators

Acceptance Criteria

• UVerify dApp is available on GitHub.
• Certificates are stored in the datum, not as currently in the redeemer field.
• Auth tokens and state tokens are issued correctly to compute the service fees. Instructions on how to obtain a custom auth token and create a payment split are in place.

Evidence of Milestone Completion

• GitHub URL to the project
• Screencast of using UVerify and a Cardano explorer link to the datum
• URL to GitHub Pages, Cardano explorer link of auth and trust token

Milestone 2: Milestone Outputs

• Templating engine for custom UI templates

Acceptance Criteria

• The templating engine can be used to implement a completely customizable certificate page, including a filtering system based on payment credentials.
• Documentation of the templating engine is available.

Evidence of Milestone Completion

• GitHub URL to the project
• Screencast of using UVerify, including a custom UI page with custom colors and elements (e.g., rotating 3D models)
• URL to GitHub to see the open-source templating system and GitHub Pages for the documentation

Final Milestone: Milestone Outputs

• Mainnet launch
• Web2 users are able to pay transactions with PayPal
• SDKs are in place
• Final report &amp; video

Acceptance Criteria

• The platform works on the mainnet for Web3 and Web2 customers on mobile and desktop devices, leveraging technologies like PayPal ID, CIP-30, and CIP-45.
• SDKs for Python, TypeScript, JavaScript, and Java are made available.
• Comprehensive final report detailing all project activities, outcomes, and future recommendations.
• A presentation video that effectively communicates the project's impact and future potential.

Evidence of Milestone Completion

• https://uverify.io will serve the version running on the mainnet.
• https://preprod.uverify.io will serve the version running on the pre-production network.
• Screencast of using UVerify on different devices
• URL to GitHub for the SDKs and their documentation on GitHub Pages
• Submission of the final report to stakeholders.
• Presentation video published on social media channels

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

Project &amp; Product Manager: Riz Pabani

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rizpabani/

Responsibilities:

• Oversee project progress and ensure timely delivery
• Manage stakeholder communications
• Coordinate resources and budget allocation

Marketing Specialist: Sacha Windisch

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sachawindisch/

Responsibilities:

• Develop branding and positioning for UVerify
• Create educational content about the product
• Plan and execute launch marketing campaign

Blockchain Developer: Fabian Bormann

• <u>Important note about my person:</u> Please note that notwithstanding any association with the Cardano Foundation, this submission is made solely in my personal capacity and on my own behalf and account.

Advanced Validators:

• Create validators that not only check data and files but also serve as an source of truth on chain (oracle). They should also include a system for partners to work together and automatically split service fees. To incentivize people to use UVerify instead of re-implementing the platform.

Open Source DApp with Templates:

• Build an open-source decentralized app (DApp) with a flexible template system. This will let partners easily add UVerify to their products while keeping their own brand's style. Ensuring a seamless experience with their products.

Open Source SDKs:

• Develop user-friendly software development kits (SDKs) for JavaScript/TypeScript, Python, and Java. These will make it easy to add UVerify to existing products without worrying about the technical details of using the API correctly.

Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

Total Budget: 275,000 ADA

1. Personnel Costs (60% of total budget): 165,000 ADA

• Project Manager (Riz Pabani): 55,000 ADA
• Marketing Specialist (Sacha Windisch): 55,000 ADA
• Blockchain Developer (Fabian Bormann): 55,000 ADA

(Distributed equally across 3 milestones, 2 months each)

2. Development and Infrastructure (20% of total budget): 55,000 ADA

• Cloud hosting and server costs: 15,000 ADA
• Development tools and software licenses: 10,000 ADA
• Smart contract auditing: 30,000 ADA

3. Marketing and Community Engagement (10% of total budget): 27,500 ADA

• Content creation (tutorials, articles, videos): 10,000 ADA
• Social media campaigns: 7,500 ADA
• Community events and webinars: 10,000 ADA

4. Third-party Services (5% of total budget): 13,750 ADA

• Legal services for compliance review: 8,750 ADA
• Accounting services: 5,000 ADA

5. Contingency Fund (5% of total budget): 13,750 ADA

• Reserved for unexpected expenses or scope changes

Budget Breakdown by Milestone:

Milestone 1 (2 months): 91,667 ADA

• Personnel: 55,000 ADA
• Development and Infrastructure: 18,333 ADA
• Marketing and Community Engagement: 9,167 ADA
• Third-party Services: 4,583 ADA
• Contingency: 4,584 ADA

Milestone 2 (2 months): 91,667 ADA

• Personnel: 55,000 ADA
• Development and Infrastructure: 18,333 ADA
• Marketing and Community Engagement: 9,167 ADA
• Third-party Services: 4,583 ADA
• Contingency: 4,584 ADA

Milestone 3 (2 months): 91,666 ADA

• Personnel: 55,000 ADA
• Development and Infrastructure: 18,334 ADA
• Marketing and Community Engagement: 9,166 ADA
• Third-party Services: 4,584 ADA
• Contingency: 4,582 ADA

No dependencies

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

The UVerify project represents excellent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem, considering its potential impact and the expertise of our team. Here's how our costs translate into value:

Expertise and Efficiency: Our team consists of highly skilled professionals with extensive experience in blockchain development, project management, and marketing. Their expertise allows for efficient development and implementation, reducing overall project time and costs. The allocated budget reflects competitive rates for blockchain specialists, ensuring we attract and retain top talent.

Long-term Ecosystem Growth: While the initial investment of 275,000 ADA may seem substantial, it's important to consider the long-term benefits:

• Expansion of Cardano's use cases into digital certification and verification
• Attraction of institutional players to the Cardano ecosystem
• Potential increase in network activity and ADA utility

Cost Breakdown Justification:

• Personnel Costs (60% of budget): This allocation is in line with industry standards for specialized blockchain projects. According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for a blockchain developer in Europe ranges from €60,000 to €120,000. Our budget allocates approximately €55,000 per team member for six months, which is competitive and justified given their expertise.
• Development and Infrastructure (20%): This includes essential costs for secure and scalable development. The smart contract auditing cost (30,000 ADA) is particularly crucial for ensuring the security and reliability of the platform.
• Marketing and Community Engagement (10%): This investment is vital for driving adoption and showcasing the value of UVerify to potential users and the wider Cardano community.

Open-Source Contribution: A significant portion of our work will be open-sourced, providing long-term value to the entire Cardano ecosystem. This includes:

• UVerify dApp
• SDKs for multiple programming languages
• Templating engine for custom UI

Scalability and Future-Proofing: Our budget includes provisions for creating a scalable and flexible system. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the investment continues to provide value as the ecosystem grows and evolves.

Comparison to Traditional Solutions: Developing a similar centralized solution would likely cost significantly more and lack the benefits of blockchain technology. Our blockchain-based approach offers enhanced security, transparency, and decentralization at a competitive price point.

Potential ROI for the Ecosystem: The success of UVerify could lead to:

• Increased transaction volume on the Cardano network
• Enhanced reputation for Cardano as a versatile blockchain solution
• Potential partnerships with institutions and enterprises, further driving adoption

Cost-Effective Marketing: By leveraging community engagement and creating educational content, we're maximizing our marketing budget's impact. This approach not only promotes UVerify but also contributes to the overall growth and understanding of the Cardano ecosystem.

In conclusion, the 275,000 ADA budget for UVerify represents excellent value for money when considering the project's potential to drive adoption, expand use cases, and contribute open-source resources to the Cardano ecosystem. Our team's expertise ensures efficient use of resources, while our focus on scalability and future-proofing guarantees long-term value for the investment. The potential returns in terms of ecosystem growth, increased network activity, and enhanced reputation for Cardano far outweigh the initial costs.