FarmTech Solutions: Empowering Nepalese Farmers with Digital Tools

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Pratima Baral

[GENERAL] Email address of main applicant

8pratima@gmail.com

Additional applicants

n/a

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

10

[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

dApp

[IMPACT] Please describe your proposed solution.

Our proposed solution aims to address the challenges faced by the agricultural sector in Nepal through the development of a comprehensive digital agriculture platform. 

Firstly, we recognize that traditional farming practices, limited access to information, and a lack of technological adoption contribute to low agricultural productivity and inefficiency. By leveraging digital technologies, we intend to bridge these gaps and empower farmers with the tools and knowledge they need to optimize their farming practices.

Our approach involves the creation of a user-friendly mobile application that will serve as a one-stop solution for farmers. The app will provide real-time access to crucial agricultural information, including weather forecasts, pest and disease alerts, crop management practices, and market prices. By receiving timely and accurate information, farmers can make data-driven decisions to enhance crop yields, minimize losses, and improve overall productivity.

Our solution will also engage key stakeholders in the agricultural ecosystem, including farmers, agricultural experts, input suppliers, and market actors. By fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing, we aim to build a strong community that supports sustainable agricultural practices and economic growth.

To demonstrate the impact of our solution, we will track key metrics such as increased crop yields, reduced input costs, improved market access, and enhanced farmer livelihoods. Additionally, we will conduct regular assessments and gather feedback from users to continuously improve the platform's usability and effectiveness.

What sets our solution apart is its integration with the Cardano blockchain. We will use Cardano's secure and transparent technology to create a reliable system for digital agriculture. This means that the information in the system will be accurate and trustworthy. We want to help Nepalese farmers by providing them with a platform they can rely on for their farming needs. Our solution aligns with Cardano's goal of using technology to solve practical problems. We believe that by supporting sustainable development and inclusive growth, our project will benefit farmers in Nepal and contribute to the overall success of Cardano's system.

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

Our proposed solution directly tackles the challenge by using digital technology to revolutionize agriculture in Nepal. By creating a user-friendly mobile app that provides farmers with essential information and tools, we aim to achieve the following:

• Financial Inclusion: We want to help small-scale farmers access important market information and improve their crop yields. This will empower them to make better decisions and increase their income.
• Sustainable Agriculture: Our solution promotes sustainable farming practices by using data and technology to optimize resource usage and minimize environmental impact.
• Community Engagement: We aim to build a community where farmers, experts, and stakeholders can collaborate and share knowledge, fostering a supportive network within the Cardano ecosystem.

Our project will not only benefit the project team but also bring value to the Cardano ecosystem in the following ways:

• Community Growth: By offering a practical and valuable solution, we anticipate attracting more users to Cardano, expanding its user base and strengthening the community.

• Data Utilisation: The data generated by our platform can be utilised by other projects within Cardano, such as agri-financing or supply chain tracking initiatives, enhancing the overall value of the ecosystem.

• Real-World Application: Our project demonstrates the real-world application of Cardano's technology, showcasing its usefulness and credibility in solving practical problems in industries like agriculture.

While it's difficult to provide exact numbers, we expect significant adoption of our platform within a reasonable timeframe. Through targeted marketing and partnerships, we anticipate a substantial user base and a high volume of agricultural transactions within the Cardano ecosystem.

[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. Some key measures of success include:

• Adoption and User Engagement: We will track the number of active users on our farming platform, the frequency of app usage, and user satisfaction surveys to gauge the level of adoption and engagement.

• Transaction Volume: We will monitor the volume of transactions conducted through the platform, particularly those related to agricultural activities such as buying/selling product, accessing advisory services, and participating in marketplace.

• Impact on Farming Practices: We will assess the impact of our solution on farming practices and productivity by gathering feedback from users on how the platform has improved their decision-making, crop yields, resource management, and overall profitability.

• Community Growth: We will monitor the growth of the Cardano community within the agricultural sector, including the number of new users onboarded, participation in community events, and engagement in discussions related to farming and blockchain technology.

In the short term, our innovation will contribute to Cardano's productivity and growth by attracting new users to the ecosystem, expanding the use cases of the blockchain, and increasing transaction volume within the agricultural sector. This will enhance Cardano's reputation as a practical and impactful blockchain platform.

In the long term, our project has the potential to create a positive feedback loop. As more farmers adopt the platform and experience its benefits, it will generate positive word-of-mouth and attract further users from the farming community. This increased adoption will drive demand for Cardano's services and foster sustainable growth within the ecosystem.

While quantitative metrics are important for measuring success, we also recognise the value of qualitative feedback. We will actively seek user opinions and testimonials to understand their perception of the platform, the impact on their farming practices, and any suggestions for improvement. This qualitative feedback will provide valuable insights and help shape our future development efforts.

[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 with various stakeholders. Our approach includes the following:

• Dissemination through Digital Channels: We will leverage digital platforms such as our project website, social media channels, and online forums to share regular updates, project milestones, and key finding.

• Collaborations and Partnerships: We will actively seek collaborations and partnerships with relevant organisations, including agricultural associations, research institutions, and government agencies.

• Community Engagement: We will actively engage with the farming community, both online and offline, to gather feedback, address their concerns, and share the benefits of our project.

• Research Papers and Publications: We will document our project's methodology, key findings, and lessons learned in research papers and publication.

Regarding further research and development activities, we will utilise the results generated from our project to drive continuous improvement and innovation. The data and insights gathered during the project will provide valuable inputs for refining our platform, enhancing its features, and addressing any identified limitations or challenges.

We will also explore opportunities to collaborate with research institutions and industry partners to conduct in-depth analyses, evaluate the impact of our solution on farming practices, and contribute to the body of knowledge in the field of digital agriculture.

By leveraging the project results, we aim to drive ongoing research and development activities, ensuring that our solution remains relevant, effective, and aligned with the evolving needs of the farming community and the broader agricultural sector.

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

we are highly motivated and dedicated to delivering projects with trust and accountability. Here's why we believe we are well-suited to deliver this project:

• Passionate Team: Our team consists of passionate individuals who are eager to make a mark in the IT industry. We may be a startup, but we have a strong drive to succeed and a willingness to go the extra mile to ensure project success.
• Innovative Approach: As a startup, we bring fresh and innovative ideas to the table. We are not bound by traditional practices and are open to exploring new technologies and solutions. This allows us to provide unique and creative solutions to address project challenges.
• Adaptability: Startups are known for their agility and flexibility. We have the ability to quickly adapt to changing project requirements and pivot when necessary. This ensures that we can deliver solutions that align with evolving client needs.
• Cost-effectiveness: As a startup, we understand the value of budget-conscious solutions. We strive to provide cost-effective options without compromising on quality. This allows us to maximize the value we deliver to our clients within their budget constraints.
• Transparent Communication: We believe in open and honest communication with our clients. We keep them informed about project progress, challenges, and any necessary adjustments. This transparent approach builds trust and ensures that our clients are actively involved in the project.
• Financial Accountability: We maintain strict financial management processes to ensure proper handling of funds. This includes accurate budgeting, detailed expense tracking, and adherence to financial regulations. We also provide transparent financial reports to our clients, demonstrating our commitment to financial accountability.

While we may be a startup, our passion, innovative approach, adaptability, cost-effectiveness, transparent communication, and commitment to learning make us well-suited to deliver this project with trust and accountability. We are excited about the opportunity to showcase our capabilities and contribute to the success of your 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:

• Develop a user-friendly mobile-based farming platform: Our goal is to create a mobile application that provides Nepalese farmers with easy access to real-time agricultural information, market data, and advisory services. We aim to ensure that the platform is intuitive, user-friendly, and tailored to the specific needs and challenges faced by farmers in Nepal.
• Improve farming practices and productivity: We seek to empower farmers by equipping them with knowledge and tools to optimize their farming practices. Through our platform, farmers will have access to accurate and timely information on crop management, pest control, weather conditions, market trends, and more. The objective is to enhance productivity, reduce risks, and improve overall agricultural outcomes.
• Foster financial inclusion and market access: We aim to connect farmers with market opportunities and facilitate access to financial services. By providing market data and linking farmers with potential buyers, our platform aims to enable farmers to make informed decisions, negotiate better prices, and expand their market reach. Additionally, we will explore partnerships with financial institutions to offer financial products and services tailored to farmers' needs.
• Validate the feasibility of our approach: To validate the feasibility of our approach, we will conduct pilot tests and gather feedback from farmers, agricultural experts, and stakeholders. We will measure the effectiveness of our platform by evaluating key indicators such as user adoption rates, user satisfaction surveys, improvement in farming practices, and increased market participation. Qualitative feedback and testimonials from farmers will also play a crucial role in assessing the impact and success of our project.

As our project is focused on software development, we will follow an iterative and agile approach to implementation. We will establish a development timeline, set specific milestones, and conduct regular testing and refinement cycles. This iterative process will allow us to gather user feedback, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that our platform meets the needs of its intended users.

[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: Project Initiation

• Tasks/Activities:
• Develop project scope document (1 weeks)
• Identify project stakeholders and their requirements (1 week)
• Create project team roster (1 week)
• Define roles and responsibilities matrix for team members (1 week)
• Timeline: 4 weeks

Milestone 2: Platform Design and Development

• Tasks/Activities:
• Create user stories and define product backlog
• Wireframes, design prototypes, user interface (UI) design, platform with core features.
• Develop project plan and allocate resources
• Timeline: 4 weeks

Milestone 3: Data Integration and Backend Development

• Tasks/Activities:
• Establish a data integration framework
• Set up backend infrastructure
• Develop functional application programming interfaces (APIs) for data retrieval and processing
• Integrate necessary APIs and data sources
• Timeline: 5 weeks

Milestone 4: Content Creation and Advisory Services Integration

• Tasks/Activities:
• Create high-quality agricultural content
• Integrate advisory services within the platform
• Timeline: 8 weeks

Milestone 5: Testing and Refinement

• Tasks/Activities:
• Develop test plans for the platform
• Collect and analyse user feedback
• Refine platform features based on feedback
• Timeline: 7 weeks

Milestone 6: Deployment and Launch

• Tasks/Activities:Deploy the platform
• Prepare user training materials
• Make an official launch announcement
• Timeline: 3 weeks

Overall Project Management Approach:

• Agile methodology will be followed using Jira as the project management tool.
• Sprints will be conducted in 2-week iterations.
• Daily stand-up meetings will be held for progress updates and issue resolution.
• Regular demos and review sessions will be conducted for stakeholders.
• Continuous communication and collaboration with the team and stakeholders.

Project Management Approach:

• We will follow an Agile project management approach, using sprints and regular communication to ensure efficient progress and collaboration.
• Weekly progress meetings will be held to discuss project updates, address any challenges, and ensure alignment with stakeholders.
• Task management tools will be utilized to track and monitor the progress of individual tasks.
• Regular status reports will be shared to provide transparency and keep them informed about the project's progress.

By following this detailed plan and utilizing effective project management techniques, we will ensure that the project progresses smoothly, milestones are achieved within the specified timeline, and the project is delivered successfully.

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

Milestone 1: Project Initiation

• Deliverables: Project scope document, project team roster, roles and responsibilities matrix.
• Outputs: Clear understanding of project objectives, scope, and stakeholders (local body gov, co-operatives). Project team established with assigned roles.
• Intended Outcomes: Well-defined project direction and team structure for effective project execution.
• Measurement: Completion and approval of the project scope document and project team roster.

Milestone 2: Platform Design and Development

• Deliverables: Wireframes, design prototypes, user interface (UI) design, Adda platform with core features.
• Outputs: Visual representations of the platform's layout and functionality, functional Adda platform with basic features implemented.
• Intended Outcomes: User-friendly and visually appealing platform design, initial version of the platform for further development.
• Measurement: Approval of wireframes and design prototypes, successful development and testing of core platform features.

Milestone 3: Data Integration and Backend Development

• Deliverables: Data integration framework, backend infrastructure, functional application programming interfaces (APIs).
• Outputs: Established framework for integrating data sources, robust backend infrastructure, functional APIs for data retrieval and processing.
• Intended Outcomes: Seamless integration of agricultural data sources, reliable backend infrastructure to support platform functionality.
• Measurement: Successful integration of data sources, deployment of backend infrastructure, functional testing of APIs.

Milestone 4: Content Creation and Advisory Services Integration

• Deliverables: High-quality agricultural content, integrated advisory services within the platform.
• Outputs: Relevant and informative agricultural content, seamless integration of advisory services for users.
• Intended Outcomes: Availability of valuable information for farmers, access to expert advisory services within the platform.
• Measurement: Completion and approval of agricultural content, successful integration of advisory services.

Milestone 5: Testing and Refinement

• Deliverables: Test plans, user feedback reports, refined platform features.
• Outputs: Comprehensive testing results, user feedback collected and analyzed, improved platform features based on feedback.
• Intended Outcomes: Bug-free and user-friendly platform, enhanced user experience based on user feedback.
• Measurement: Successful completion of testing, documentation of user feedback and corresponding refinements.

Milestone 6: Deployment and Launch

• Deliverables: Deployed platform, user training materials, launch announcement.
• Outputs: Fully functional and accessible platform, user training resources, official launch announcement.
• Intended Outcomes: Availability of the platform to users, users trained to effectively utilize platform features.
• Measurement: Successful deployment of the platform, completion of user training, official launch announcement.

Progress Measurement:

• Milestone completion and approval by the project stakeholders.
• User feedback and satisfaction surveys.
• Successful deployment and usage metrics of the platform.
• Timely completion of tasks and adherence to the project timeline.

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

Here's a detailed budget breakdown for the proposed project:

Milestone 1: Project Initiation

• This include Project scope document, team roster, project management tool setup : ADA 10,000

Total Cost for Milestone 1: ADA 10,000

Milestone 2: Platform Design and Development

• This include human-computer interaction (HCI) research method involves understanding user needs, designing user-centered interfaces, and iteratively testing and refining the app based on user feedback. Travelling will be done to identify user needs . Wireframes, Design prototypes, User interface (UI) design ,Platform development: ADA 30,000

Total Cost for Milestone 2: ADA 30,000

Milestone 3: Data Integration and Backend Development

• Data integration framework, Backend infrastructure, Functional APIs:ADA 20,000

Total Cost for Milestone 3: ADA 30,000

Milestone 4: Content Creation and Advisory Services Integration

• Agricultural content creation,Integration of advisory services : ADA 15,000

Total Cost for Milestone 4: ADA 15,000

Milestone 5: Testing and Refinement

• Test plans, User feedback analysis, Platform refinement: ADA 15,000

Total Cost for Milestone 5: ADA 15,000

Milestone 6: Deployment and Launch

• Platform deployment, User training materials,Launch announcement(marketing):ADA 10,000

Total Cost for Milestone 6: ADA 10,000

Additional Budget Elements:

- Publicity/Marketing/Promotion/Community engagement:ADA 5,000

- Project management: ADA 5,000

- Documentation: ADA 3,000

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

The cost of the project has been carefully determined to ensure value for money and align with industry standards. The following justifications support the value proposition:

1. Impact and Benefits: The project aims to develop a user-friendly and interactive app for the Cardano ecosystem, which will attract and engage a wider user base. By providing seamless access to Cardano's features and services, the app will enhance the user experience and increase adoption. The potential impact of this project in driving ecosystem growth and utilization justifies the associated costs.
2. Expertise and Quality: Our project team consists of experienced app developers, UX/UI designers, and human-computer interaction researchers. They bring a wealth of expertise and a proven track record in delivering high-quality applications. While their rates may be higher than average, their specialized skills ensure the development of a robust and reliable app, providing long-term value to the Cardano ecosystem.
3. Market Rates and Industry Standards: Extensive research and market analysis have been conducted to determine the cost of the project. We have reviewed average rates for app development and user research services within the blockchain industry. The proposed costs are in line with these market rates, ensuring that we attract top talent while maintaining a competitive budget.
4. Cost-Benefit Analysis: A comprehensive cost-benefit analysis has been conducted to evaluate the project's potential return on investment. The benefits include increased user engagement, improved accessibility, and enhanced functionality for the Cardano ecosystem. These benefits outweigh the costs, making the project financially viable and representing value for money in terms of the long-term growth and sustainability of the ecosystem.

[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