Establishing a Blockchain Research Laboratory for Technical Education and Innovation at Thakur College of Engineering & Technology (TCET)

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Sangeeta Vhatkar

[GENERAL] Email address of main applicant

sangeeta.vhatkar@tcetmumbai.in

Additional applicants

Vedant Jha

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

6

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language.

No

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

No

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

no dependencies

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

Yes

[GENERAL] If NO, please describe which outputs are not going to be open source. If YES, please write “Project will be fully open source.”

Project will be fully open source.

[METADATA] Category of proposal

Education

[METADATA] SDG rating

SDG Rating: Our proposal aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and sub-goals:

1. SDG 4: Quality Education - Sub-goal 4.3: Ensure equal access for all to affordable and quality technical, vocational, and tertiary education.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure - Sub-goal 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade technological capabilities, and promote innovation.
3. SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals - Sub-goal 17.17: Encourage and promote effective public-private partnerships, research, and capacity-building in developing countries.

Our project contributes to these goals by providing quality education, fostering innovation through research, and establishing partnerships with industry and academic institutions to drive technological advancement in blockchain technology.

[IMPACT] Please describe your proposed solution.

Our proposed solution aims to address the lack of dedicated infrastructure for blockchain research and education at Thakur College of Engineering & Technology (TCET). We believe that by establishing a dedicated Blockchain Research Laboratory, we can unlock the full potential of blockchain technology in the academic environment and contribute to the Cardano ecosystem.

The problem we are solving is the limited opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience and contribute to the blockchain ecosystem due to the absence of a dedicated research laboratory. By creating this lab, we will provide students with a platform to explore blockchain technology, develop practical skills, and engage in innovative projects.

Our approach involves several key components:

• Infrastructure and Resources: We will equip the lab with state-of-the-art hardware, software, and blockchain development tools necessary for research and experimentation. This will provide students with the resources they need to gain practical experience and develop blockchain-based solutions.
• Curriculum Development: We will develop a comprehensive curriculum that covers both theoretical and practical aspects of blockchain technology. This will ensure that students receive a well-rounded education in blockchain, enabling them to apply their knowledge effectively in real-world scenarios.
• Student Projects and Research: The lab will serve as a platform for students to undertake research projects and practical implementations of blockchain technology. Students will have the opportunity to work on real-world use cases, collaborate with industry partners, and contribute to the broader blockchain ecosystem.
• Industry Collaborations: We will establish partnerships with industry experts and organizations actively involved in blockchain research and development. This collaboration will provide students with exposure to real-world applications, mentorship opportunities, and potential internships, enhancing their learning experience and career prospects.
• Knowledge Dissemination: We will organize workshops, seminars, and conferences to share knowledge and insights related to blockchain technology. These events will serve as platforms for industry experts, researchers, and students to exchange ideas, showcase innovations, and promote the adoption of blockchain technology.

Our solution is unique in its focus on creating a dedicated research laboratory specifically tailored to the needs of blockchain education and innovation. By empowering students with practical skills and fostering industry collaborations, we aim to bridge the gap between academia and industry, enabling students to contribute meaningfully to the Cardano ecosystem and the wider blockchain community.

The beneficiaries of our solution are diverse. Students will gain practical experience, develop marketable skills, and become well-equipped to enter the blockchain industry. Faculty members will have opportunities for research collaboration, enhancing their expertise and staying at the forefront of blockchain advancements. The Cardano ecosystem will benefit from a pipeline of skilled individuals capable of driving innovation and adoption.

In summary, our proposed solution offers a comprehensive approach to blockchain education, research, and innovation. By establishing a dedicated Blockchain Research Laboratory at TCET, we will empower students, foster collaboration, and contribute to the growth and impact of Cardano and the broader blockchain ecosystem.

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

Our proposed solution directly addresses the challenge of limited infrastructure for blockchain research and education, specifically at Thakur College of Engineering & Technology (TCET). By establishing a dedicated Blockchain Research Laboratory, we aim to provide tangible benefits to the Cardano ecosystem:

• Building a Skilled Workforce: Through our comprehensive curriculum and hands-on projects, we will educate and empower students with practical skills and knowledge in blockchain technology. This will create a pool of talented individuals who are well-equipped to contribute to the Cardano ecosystem, strengthening the overall skillset within the community.
• Driving Innovation and Adoption: By fostering research, collaboration, and industry partnerships, our project will encourage innovation in blockchain technology. Students and faculty members will have the opportunity to develop and implement real-world use cases, exploring new possibilities for Cardano. This will contribute to the adoption and advancement of the Cardano ecosystem.
• Enhancing Research and Development: The establishment of a dedicated Blockchain Research Laboratory will provide a platform for conducting in-depth research on blockchain technology. This research will contribute to the knowledge base of the Cardano community and facilitate the development of novel solutions and advancements.
• Knowledge Sharing and Dissemination: The workshops, seminars, and conferences organized by our project will serve as valuable knowledge-sharing platforms. Experts, researchers, and students will exchange ideas, showcase innovations, and promote best practices in blockchain technology. This knowledge dissemination will benefit the Cardano ecosystem by fostering collaboration and driving continuous learning and improvement.
• Expanding the Community: By actively engaging students, faculty members, industry partners, and the broader blockchain community, our project will attract new individuals to the Cardano ecosystem. Through their participation in research, projects, and events, these individuals will become active contributors, expanding the Cardano community and creating a vibrant ecosystem.

The impact of our project will be evident through increased participation, engagement, and adoption within the Cardano ecosystem. While it is challenging to quantify the exact number of users or transactions that will result from our project within a specific timeframe, we anticipate significant qualitative impact in terms of skilled individuals, innovative projects, and knowledge dissemination. This will contribute to the growth, strength, and development of the Cardano ecosystem as a whole.

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

We intend to measure the success of our project through a combination of quantitative and qualitative metrics. Here are some key measures we will use to evaluate the project's benefits for the Cardano ecosystem:

• Student Engagement: We will measure the number of students actively participating in blockchain-related projects, research, and events. This metric will indicate the level of student engagement and their interest in blockchain technology.
• Industry Collaborations: We will track the number of partnerships established with industry experts and organizations. This metric will demonstrate the project's ability to attract external collaborations and create opportunities for students to engage with the industry.
• Research Publications: We will monitor the number of research papers and publications produced by faculty members and students related to blockchain technology. This metric will reflect the project's contribution to the knowledge base and research advancements in the Cardano ecosystem.
• Student Success and Opportunities: We will track the number of students securing internships, job placements, or entrepreneurial opportunities in the blockchain field. This metric will showcase the project's impact on students' career prospects and their ability to contribute to the Cardano ecosystem.
• User Feedback and Satisfaction: We will collect qualitative feedback from participants, including students, faculty members, and industry partners, regarding their experience with the project. This feedback will provide insights into the project's effectiveness, user satisfaction, and areas for improvement.
• Knowledge Dissemination: We will measure the number of workshops, seminars, and conferences conducted, as well as the participation and feedback received from attendees. This metric will gauge the project's success in disseminating knowledge and fostering a culture of learning within the Cardano community.

The innovation brought by our project will positively impact Cardano's productivity and growth in both the short and long term. In the short term, the project will generate immediate benefits such as increased student interest, skill development, and research outputs. These outputs can lead to innovative solutions and practical applications that contribute to the growth of the Cardano ecosystem.

In the long term, the project's focus on quality education, industry collaborations, and research advancements will create a pipeline of skilled individuals, driving innovation, adoption, and productivity within the Cardano ecosystem. As students graduate and enter the workforce, they will bring their knowledge and expertise to contribute to the development and expansion of the Cardano ecosystem, making it more robust, sustainable, and globally competitive.

The measures we have outlined are realistic and achievable within the project's scope and timeline. They capture the key aspects of the project's impact on student engagement, industry collaborations, research outputs, user satisfaction, and knowledge dissemination. These metrics, both quantitative and qualitative, will provide a comprehensive assessment of the project's success and its contribution to the Cardano ecosystem's growth and development.

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

We have a comprehensive plan to share the outputs and results of our project, ensuring that they reach a wide audience within and beyond the Cardano ecosystem. Here are our plans for disseminating the project's outputs over a reasonable timescale:

• Internal Sharing: We will organize regular presentations and workshops within TCET to share the project's progress, findings, and outcomes with students, faculty members, and staff. This will promote awareness, engagement, and collaboration within the college community.

• Publications and Research Papers: We will publish research papers, articles, and whitepapers in reputable academic journals and conferences. These publications will contribute to the knowledge base in blockchain technology and disseminate our findings to the wider research community.

• Online Platforms: We will utilize online platforms such as the TCET website, dedicated project websites, and social media channels to share project updates, outcomes, and opportunities. This will enable us to reach a broader audience, including students, researchers, industry professionals, and the Cardano community.

• Industry and Academic Partnerships: We will actively engage with industry partners and academic institutions involved in blockchain research and development. Through collaborations and joint projects, we will share our project's outputs and leverage the opportunities for further research and development.

• Conferences and Workshops: We will participate in relevant conferences, workshops, and seminars related to blockchain technology. These events provide a platform to present our project's findings, network with experts in the field, and gather feedback and insights for future research and development activities.

• Open-Source Contributions: Where applicable, we will contribute to open-source projects and initiatives related to blockchain technology. By sharing our project's outputs as open-source resources, we can benefit the broader blockchain community and foster collaboration and knowledge exchange.

By sharing our project's outputs and impact through these various channels, we aim to reach a diverse audience, including students, researchers, industry professionals, and the Cardano community. We will actively seek opportunities to present our findings, engage in discussions, and collaborate with stakeholders to maximize the dissemination and utilization of the project's results.

The results generated from the project will serve as a foundation for further research and development activities. We anticipate that the findings, insights, and practical implementations from the project will guide future research endeavors in blockchain technology at TCET. The knowledge gained will inform the development of new courses, projects, and collaborations, enabling us to stay at the forefront of blockchain advancements and contribute to the continuous growth and innovation in the field.

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability?

We have a strong track record and existing capabilities that demonstrate our ability to deliver the proposed project with high levels of trust and accountability. Here are the key factors that make us best suited to deliver this project:

• Experience and Expertise: Our team consists of experienced faculty members with expertise in blockchain technology, computer science, and related fields. They have a proven track record of conducting research, publishing papers, and mentoring students in relevant areas. Their expertise ensures that the project will be led by knowledgeable professionals who understand the intricacies of blockchain technology.

• Institutional Support: Thakur College of Engineering & Technology (TCET) provides a supportive institutional framework for the successful execution of the project. We have the necessary infrastructure, administrative support, and collaborative environment to ensure smooth project implementation.

• Financial Management: TCET has a well-established financial management system in place. We have a dedicated finance department that follows proper accounting practices, budgeting procedures, and internal controls. All financial transactions related to the project will be handled in accordance with the institutional guidelines and best practices.

• Transparency and Reporting: We are committed to maintaining transparency throughout the project. We will provide regular updates, progress reports, and financial statements to the relevant stakeholders, including the Cardano community. These reports will detail the utilization of funds, project milestones, and outcomes achieved.

• Stakeholder Engagement: We recognize the importance of stakeholder engagement and will actively involve students, faculty members, industry partners, and the Cardano community throughout the project. We will seek feedback, address concerns, and ensure open communication channels to build trust and accountability.

• Adherence to Project Timeline: We will strictly adhere to the project timeline, ensuring that deliverables are completed as planned. Any deviations or challenges will be communicated promptly, along with mitigation strategies, to maintain transparency and accountability on our project management tracking dashboard.

To manage funds properly, we will follow a robust financial management process, including:

• Development of a detailed budget plan outlining the allocation of funds for various project components can be tracked on our bounty board.
• Clear financial guidelines and procedures to ensure adherence to the budget.
• Regular monitoring and tracking of expenses to maintain financial discipline.
• Internal audits and checks to ensure compliance with financial regulations and accountability.
• Appropriate documentation and record-keeping of all financial transactions.

We are committed to managing funds with utmost integrity, ensuring that they are used judiciously to achieve the project's objectives and deliver maximum impact for the Cardano ecosystem. Our existing capabilities, institutional support, financial management practices, and commitment to transparency demonstrate our trustworthiness and accountability in delivering this project.

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] What are the main goals for the project and how will you validate if your approach is feasible?

The main goals for our project are as follows:

Goal 1: Establish a Dedicated Blockchain Research Laboratory: The primary objective is to set up a fully equipped Blockchain Research Laboratory at Thakur College of Engineering & Technology (TCET) to provide students with a platform for practical exploration and innovation in blockchain technology.

Validation Approach: We will validate the feasibility of this goal by ensuring the successful establishment of the laboratory with the necessary infrastructure, hardware, software, and resources within the proposed timeline. The completion of the physical setup, procurement of equipment, and availability of a conducive research environment will serve as indicators of achieving this goal.

Goal 2: Develop a Comprehensive Curriculum: We aim to develop a curriculum that covers both theoretical and practical aspects of blockchain technology, enabling students to gain a deep understanding of the subject and its real-world applications.

Validation Approach: The feasibility of this goal will be validated by designing a curriculum that encompasses key topics in blockchain technology, aligns with industry trends and best practices, and meets the educational objectives of TCET. Feedback from students, faculty members, and industry experts on the curriculum's relevance, depth, and practicality will serve as measures of success.

Goal 3: Foster Industry Collaborations: We intend to establish partnerships and collaborations with industry experts and organizations actively involved in blockchain research and development. This will provide students with exposure to real-world applications, mentorship opportunities, and potential internships.

Validation Approach: The feasibility of this goal will be determined by the successful establishment of partnerships, signed agreements, and active involvement of industry collaborators in research projects, mentorship programs, or internships. Feedback from industry partners and student participants regarding the quality and impact of these collaborations will serve as indicators of goal achievement.

Goal 4: Promote Knowledge Dissemination: We aim to organize workshops, seminars, and conferences to share knowledge and insights related to blockchain technology. These events will serve as platforms for industry experts, researchers, and students to exchange ideas, showcase innovations, and promote the adoption of blockchain technology.

Validation Approach: The feasibility of this goal will be validated by successfully organizing and conducting workshops, seminars, and conferences with active participation from the target audience. Feedback from attendees, post-event evaluations, and the dissemination of knowledge through publications and online platforms will indicate the effectiveness and impact of knowledge dissemination.

Regarding implementation, our approach involves the following steps:

• Conducting a comprehensive assessment of infrastructure requirements, including hardware, software, and networking capabilities, to establish the Blockchain Research Laboratory.
• Collaborating with industry partners and academic institutions to develop the curriculum and identify research focus areas.
• Procuring the necessary equipment and software licenses to set up the laboratory and ensuring their proper installation and configuration.
• Engaging faculty members, industry experts, and students to actively participate in curriculum development, research projects, and knowledge dissemination activities.
• Regular monitoring of project progress, milestones, and financial utilization to ensure timely execution and effective implementation.

By following this approach, we believe that we can successfully achieve the project's goals, validate their feasibility, and deliver tangible outcomes that contribute to the growth and development of the Cardano ecosystem.

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] 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.

Milestone 1: Establishing the Blockchain Research Laboratory (0-1 month)

• Activities:
• Conduct an assessment of infrastructure requirements
• Procure necessary hardware, software, and equipment
• Set up the physical infrastructure and configure the lab environment
• Success/Acceptance Criteria: Completion of lab setup, availability of required equipment, and functional lab environment

Milestone 2: Curriculum Development (1-2 month)

• Activities:
• Conduct a review of existing curriculum and identify gaps
• Develop course materials, syllabi, and assignments for blockchain-related courses
• Incorporate practical exercises and projects to enhance hands-on learning
• Success/Acceptance Criteria: Finalized curriculum documents, ready for implementation

Milestone 3: Industry Collaborations (beyond 3rd month)

• Activities:
• Identify potential industry partners and establish communication
• Negotiate partnerships, agreements, and collaboration terms
• Define joint research projects, mentorship opportunities, and internships
• Success/Acceptance Criteria: Signed agreements with industry partners, clear project scope, and engagement plans

Milestone 4: Knowledge Dissemination Events (3-6 month)

• Activities:
• Plan and organize workshops, seminars, and conferences on blockchain technology
• Invite industry experts, researchers, and students as speakers and participants
• Coordinate logistics, including venue, materials, and publicity
• Success/Acceptance Criteria: Successful execution of knowledge dissemination events with positive participant feedback and knowledge sharing outcomes

Overall Project Management Approach:

• The project will be managed by a dedicated project team consisting of faculty members and administrative staff.
• Regular project meetings will be conducted to discuss progress, address challenges, and ensure timely completion of tasks.
• Clear roles and responsibilities will be assigned to team members, and project milestones will be tracked using project management tools.
• Monitoring and reporting mechanisms will be established to track the project's progress, budget utilization, and adherence to timelines.
• Any deviations or risks will be promptly identified, and mitigation strategies will be implemented to ensure project success.
• Stakeholder engagement and communication will be prioritized to foster transparency, collaboration, and accountability.

The proposed milestones and implementation plan outline the key stages of the project, their respective timelines, success criteria, and projected costs. These milestones represent significant progress towards achieving the project's goals, and they are designed to ensure the successful establishment of the Blockchain Research Laboratory, curriculum development, industry collaborations, and knowledge dissemination events.

[CAPABILITY/ FEASIBILITY] Please describe the deliverables, outputs and intended outcomes of each milestone.

Milestone 1: Establishing the Blockchain Research Laboratory

Deliverables:

• Completed assessment report detailing infrastructure requirements
• Procured hardware, software, and equipment for the lab
• Fully set up and functional Blockchain Research Laboratory

Outputs:

• Assessment report document
• Inventory of procured equipment and software licenses
• Lab setup and configuration documentation

Intended Outcomes:

• Availability of a dedicated and well-equipped Blockchain Research Laboratory at TCET
• Enhanced infrastructure to support practical exploration and innovation in blockchain technology
• Improved opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience and conduct research in the field

Measurement of Progress:

• Completion of the assessment report within the specified timeframe
• Verification of the procurement and installation of necessary hardware and software
• Validation of the functional lab environment through testing and utilization by students and faculty

Milestone 2: Curriculum Development

Deliverables:

• Finalized course materials, syllabi, and assignments for blockchain-related courses
• Practical exercises and project guidelines incorporated into the curriculum

Outputs:

• Course materials and syllabi documents
• Assignment templates and guidelines
• Curriculum documentation with practical components highlighted

Intended Outcomes:

• Well-designed curriculum that covers both theoretical and practical aspects of blockchain technology
• Integration of hands-on exercises and projects to enhance students' practical skills
• Alignment of the curriculum with industry trends and best practices in the blockchain field

Measurement of Progress:

• Review and approval of the finalized course materials by relevant stakeholders
• Documentation of practical exercises and project guidelines
• Evaluation of the curriculum's effectiveness through feedback from students and faculty

Milestone 3: Industry Collaborations

Deliverables:

• Signed agreements and partnership documentation with industry partners
• Defined joint research projects, mentorship programs, and internship opportunities

Outputs:

• Partnership agreements and memoranda of understanding
• Project scopes and collaboration plans
• Mentorship and internship guidelines

Intended Outcomes:

• Establishment of partnerships with industry experts and organizations involved in blockchain research and development
• Opportunities for students to engage in real-world projects, receive mentorship, and pursue internships
• Increased industry engagement and relevance of the project's activities

Measurement of Progress:

• Completion and signing of partnership agreements within the specified timeframe
• Documentation of joint research project plans and objectives
• Feedback from industry partners and student participants regarding the value and impact of collaborations

Milestone 4: Knowledge Dissemination Events

Deliverables:

• Planned and executed workshops, seminars, and conferences on blockchain technology
• Presentations, materials, and documentation from the knowledge dissemination events

Outputs:

• Event planning and coordination documentation
• Presentation slides and materials
• Post-event reports and feedback summaries

Intended Outcomes:

• Opportunities for industry experts, researchers, and students to share knowledge and insights in blockchain technology
• Increased awareness and understanding of blockchain among participants
• Networking, collaboration, and knowledge exchange within the Cardano and blockchain community

Measurement of Progress:

• Successful planning and execution of knowledge dissemination events
• Participant feedback indicating satisfaction, increased knowledge, and networking opportunities
• Documentation of event materials, presentations, and reports

The progress of the project will be measured through:

• Timely completion of deliverables and milestones
• Stakeholder feedback and satisfaction surveys
• Assessment of student engagement and participation in research and practical activities
• Evaluation of the impact of industry collaborations on students' learning and career prospects
• Attendance, feedback, and outcomes of knowledge dissemination events
• Regular project monitoring and reporting on budget utilization and adherence to timelines

[RESOURCES & VALUE FOR MONEY] Please provide a detailed budget breakdown of the proposed work and resources.

Budget Breakdown for Proposed Work and Resources

Total Budget: 72,000 ADA

• Milestone 1: Establishing the Blockchain Research Laboratory
• Infrastructure Assessment: 4,000 ADA
• Hardware and Equipment Procurement: 15,000 ADA

• Milestone 2: Curriculum Development
• Curriculum Review and Gap Analysis: 2,000 ADA
• Course Material Development: 12,000 ADA
• Practical Exercises and Projects: 4,000 ADA

• Milestone 3: Industry Collaborations
• Partnership Communication and Meetings: 2,000 ADA
• Collaboration Agreements: 8,000 ADA
• Research Project Planning: 4,000 ADA

• Milestone 4: Knowledge Dissemination Events
• Event Planning and Coordination: 6,000 ADA
• Venue Rental and Logistics: 10,000 ADA
• Presentation Materials and Printing: 4,000 ADA
• Documentation and Reports: 1,000 ADA

Total Budget: 72,000 ADA

Note: The budget breakdown provided is an estimate and subject to adjustment based on actual costs and market conditions. Alternative sources of funding, if necessary, could include sponsorships from industry partners, grants, or additional institutional support.

It is the responsibility of the project team to manage the allocated funds effectively, ensuring that expenses are in line with the proposed activities and deliverables. Regular financial monitoring and reporting will be conducted to ensure proper utilization of the funds and transparent accountability to the Cardano community.

[RESOURCES & VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

The cost of the project represents value for money for the Cardano ecosystem in several ways:

• Education and Skill Development: The establishment of a dedicated blockchain laboratory and curriculum development will provide students with hands-on experience and in-depth knowledge of blockchain technology, specifically focusing on Cardano. This investment in education will equip students with valuable skills that are in high demand in the blockchain industry. By producing skilled graduates, the project contributes to the growth of the Cardano ecosystem by nurturing a talent pool of blockchain professionals.

• Innovation and Research: The project's focus on fostering a culture of innovation in blockchain technology will lead to the development of innovative projects and solutions within the Cardano ecosystem. The collaboration with industry partners will provide real-world exposure and opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge research. These research outcomes and innovations can contribute to the advancement of Cardano and its applications.

• Industry Partnerships: By forming partnerships with blockchain companies and industry stakeholders, the project extends its impact beyond the college campus. These collaborations create opportunities for knowledge sharing, mentorship, internships, and industry engagement. The exchange of ideas and expertise between academia and industry strengthens the Cardano ecosystem by bridging the gap between research and practical applications.

• Employment Opportunities: The project's focus on enhancing students' skills in blockchain technology and specifically Cardano will increase their employability in the blockchain job market. By aligning the curriculum with industry trends and best practices, graduates will have a competitive advantage when pursuing blockchain-related careers. This contributes to the growth and development of the Cardano ecosystem by providing a skilled workforce to support the ecosystem's expansion.

The costs of the project have been determined based on careful consideration of the resources required, including infrastructure upgrades, equipment procurement, curriculum development, event planning, and project management. These costs have been evaluated to ensure they are proportional to industry standards and reflect the value provided by the project.

To support the justification of costs, we have considered factors such as average market rates for infrastructure upgrades, equipment purchases, curriculum development, and event coordination. We have also compared the costs to similar educational initiatives and projects in the blockchain industry. This analysis ensures that the project's costs are reasonable and represent value for money in terms of the impact and outcomes it aims to achieve within the Cardano ecosystem.

Overall, the proposed project offers a cost-effective investment in education, innovation, and industry collaboration, delivering tangible value for the Cardano ecosystem by nurturing talent, driving research and development, and contributing to the growth and adoption of Cardano in the long term.

[IMPORTANT NOTE] The Applicant agreed to Fund10 rules and also that data in the Submission Form and other data provided by the project team during the course of the project will be publicly available.

I Accept