Cardano Alliance

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Catalyst Africa Townhall

[GENERAL] Are you delivering this project as an individual or as an entity (whether formally incorporated or not)

Entity (Not Incorporated)

[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] Summarize your solution to the problem (200-character limit including spaces)

To organize one of the largest Cardano blockchain events in Africa, drawing global participation and providing Africans with an opportunity to engage and showcase innovations in the blockchain space

[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] Please provide here more information on the open source status of your project outputs

This is a No Coding Project, However, every stage of the projects progress will be made publicly

[METADATA] Horizons

Connected Community

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Our solution is to organize one of the largest Cardano blockchain events in Africa, titled "Cardano Alliance" This event will serve as a platform for African innovators, developers, and entrepreneurs to engage with global blockchain leaders, investors, and educators. It will also offer a space for knowledge-sharing, project showcases, and collaboration that is often inaccessible to many within the continent.

Problem Being Solved:

• Lack of Major Blockchain Events in Africa: There is a significant gap in the organization of large-scale blockchain events in Africa, which limits opportunities for local talents to showcase their projects and connect with global players.
• Limited Access to Global Blockchain Networks: African blockchain developers and entrepreneurs face barriers in attending international events due to cost and geographic distance, which results in limited global exposure and participation.
• Lack of Awareness and Education about Cardano: While the blockchain community is growing in Africa, awareness of Cardano’s potential to drive innovation and inclusion remains limited.

2. Reasons for This Approach

• Fostering Global Engagement in Africa: By organizing this large-scale event in Africa, we bring the global blockchain community to the continent, eliminating barriers to participation and showcasing the continent as a hub for blockchain innovation.
• Showcasing African Talent on the Global Stage: Providing a platform for African developers to present their work will increase visibility, attract investment, and foster collaborations between African and global blockchain projects.
• Accelerating Cardano Adoption: This event will serve as a catalyst for wider adoption of the Cardano blockchain by showcasing real-world use cases and fostering developer interest in building on Cardano’s ecosystem.

3. Project Engagement

• African Blockchain Innovators: The event will engage local developers, startups, and entrepreneurs working in the blockchain space, giving them a platform to present their projects.
• Global Blockchain Leaders: We will invite prominent figures in the global blockchain community, including investors, industry experts, and Cardano community leaders.
• Educational Institutions and Governments: Local educational institutions, government representatives, and regulators will also be engaged to foster dialogues on policy, governance, and blockchain adoption.
• Cardano Community: The event will provide a space for Cardano’s global community to connect directly with African projects, fostering collaborations and increasing the presence of Cardano across the continent.

4. Impact Demonstration and Proof

• Event Attendance and Participation: We will measure the success of the event by the number of participants, including African developers and global blockchain leaders. Key metrics will include the number of attendees, sessions held, and projects showcased.
• Post-Event Collaborations: A key measure of success will be the partnerships and collaborations that emerge from the event. We will track these through follow-up surveys and reports.
• Adoption of Cardano: We will track how many African projects and developers begin building on Cardano as a direct result of the event, using metrics such as the number of new projects proposed in Project Catalyst.
• Media Coverage and Outreach: The global media coverage of the event will be a strong indicator of its success, measured through media mentions, social media engagement, and press releases.

5. Unique Aspects of the Solution

• First-of-its-Kind Event: This will be one of the largest Cardano blockchain events in Africa, providing an unprecedented platform for African and global collaboration.
• Local Talent on a Global Stage: The event will uniquely focus on showcasing African blockchain innovation while attracting global attention, bridging a significant gap between local and international communities.
• Impact on Cardano Ecosystem: By hosting the event in Africa, a region with significant potential for blockchain adoption, we will accelerate the growth of Cardano in an untapped market, while also aligning with Cardano’s mission of financial inclusion and decentralized governance.
• Long-Term Vision: The event will not just be a one-off. It is the first step in creating a recurring series of blockchain summits across the continent, positioning Africa as a key player in the global blockchain ecosystem.

6. Who Will Benefit

• African Blockchain Developers and Entrepreneurs: They will have direct access to global investors, advisors, and opportunities for growth and collaboration.
• Global Blockchain Leaders: They will discover innovative solutions being developed in Africa, creating opportunities for investment and partnership.
• Cardano Ecosystem: Cardano’s blockchain will gain increased adoption and visibility in a region with a rapidly growing tech community, accelerating Cardano’s global mission.

7. Why It’s Important to Cardano

• Expansion in Emerging Markets: Africa presents a significant opportunity for the adoption of blockchain technology, with millions of unbanked individuals and growing interest in decentralized solutions. This event aligns perfectly with Cardano’s mission to promote financial inclusion.
• Fostering Decentralized Governance: The event will advance Cardano’s vision of decentralized governance by empowering African communities to take part in and contribute to global blockchain conversations.
• Growing the Cardano Developer Base: By hosting workshops and developer sessions at the event, we will grow the number of developers building on Cardano, creating a ripple effect of innovation and adoption.

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

1. Positive Impact on the Cardano Community

A. Expansion of the Cardano Ecosystem in Africa:

• Increase in Cardano Adoption: The event will raise awareness and interest in Cardano’s blockchain technology, leading to increased adoption in Africa. Developers, entrepreneurs, and businesses will be encouraged to explore and build on Cardano, creating new projects and use cases.
• New Partnerships and Collaborations: By bringing together global blockchain leaders and African innovators, the event will foster partnerships that will strengthen the Cardano ecosystem. These collaborations could result in new dApps, DeFi projects, or blockchain solutions tailored to African markets.

B. Strengthening the Global Cardano Community:

• Inclusion of African Voices in the Cardano Ecosystem: The event will allow African developers and entrepreneurs to share their projects, ideas, and insights with the broader Cardano community, contributing to a more diverse and inclusive ecosystem.
• Empowerment of Local Communities: By giving African blockchain projects global visibility, the event will empower local communities to solve regional challenges using Cardano’s blockchain, supporting financial inclusion and decentralized governance.

C. Long-Term Growth and Sustainability:

• Recurring Events and Future Opportunities: This event aims to become a recurring blockchain summit, creating a long-term impact by regularly bringing global attention to Africa’s blockchain potential. As the event grows, so will Cardano’s influence and adoption in Africa.

2. Measuring Impact

A. Quantitative Measures:

• Event Participation:
• Number of attendees, including local and global participants.
• Number of Cardano-focused projects showcased at the event.
• Number of workshops, panels, and sessions held, focusing on Cardano’s technology.
• Developer Engagement:
• Increase in the number of African developers building on Cardano, measured through participation in Project Catalyst and other Cardano developer initiatives post-event.
• Number of new proposals submitted to Project Catalyst by African projects as a direct result of the event.
• Partnerships and Collaborations:
• Number of partnerships formed between African and global blockchain companies.
• Number of cross-border collaborations and joint ventures initiated during or after the event.

B. Qualitative Measures:

• Feedback from Participants: We will collect feedback from attendees (developers, entrepreneurs, investors) to assess their experience, level of engagement, and interest in future Cardano projects. This will be done via surveys, interviews, and post-event discussions.
• Media and Social Media Coverage: The event’s success will also be gauged by its global reach through media coverage, social media mentions, and engagement. The number of articles, interviews, and online posts will reflect the event’s impact on spreading Cardano’s message.
• Impact on Local Communities: Qualitative interviews with African participants and attendees will help assess the event’s role in empowering them and advancing their blockchain knowledge and opportunities.

3. Sharing Outputs and Opportunities

A. Public Reports and Documentation:

• Event Report: A comprehensive event report will be created and shared with the wider Cardano community. This report will include the number of attendees, key discussions, partnership outcomes, and a detailed breakdown of the event’s success metrics.
• Case Studies: We will create case studies of successful African blockchain projects that emerged or grew as a result of the event. These case studies will be shared across Cardano platforms, showcasing the potential of the African blockchain ecosystem.

B. Social Media and Cardano Platforms:

• Live Event Coverage: During the event, we will leverage social media platforms (e.g., Twitter, LinkedIn) to provide live updates, share highlights from workshops, panels, and keynotes, and engage with the global Cardano community.
• Post-Event Content: We will release videos, podcasts, and blog posts featuring key insights and discussions from the event. These will be shared through Cardano’s channels, including forums like the Cardano Forum, Project Catalyst updates, and community newsletters.

C. Follow-Up Events and Webinars:

• Post-Event Webinars: After the main event, we will organize follow-up webinars and virtual panels to dive deeper into the key topics discussed during the event. These will engage both the African and global Cardano communities, ensuring continuous collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
• Catalyst Proposal Follow-Up: We will track and promote any Catalyst proposals or projects born from the event, sharing their progress and impact within the Cardano community to highlight the event’s long-term contributions.

4. Value to the Cardano Community

• Catalyzing Growth in a New Market: By expanding the Cardano blockchain in Africa, this event will unlock new use cases and innovations, driving Cardano’s global growth.
• Increasing Decentralization: By empowering African developers and communities, Cardano’s mission of decentralization will be furthered, bringing a more diverse and inclusive range of voices and solutions into the ecosystem.
• Global Impact and Innovation: The event will demonstrate the power of blockchain to solve real-world problems in Africa, aligning with Cardano’s goal of financial inclusion and decentralized governance, while inspiring similar events and initiatives globally.

[CAPABILITY & FEASIBILITY] 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?

1. Capability to Deliver with High Levels of Trust and Accountability

A. Proven Track Record in Blockchain and Event Organization:

• The Catalyst Africa Townhall team has a history of successful community-building efforts and projects within the Cardano ecosystem. We have consistently fostered engagement, hosted virtual meetups, and built relationships across the blockchain community, particularly in Africa.
• The team includes experienced event organizers, community leaders, and blockchain advocates, many of whom have been active participants in Project Catalyst and the wider Cardano ecosystem, ensuring we have the expertise required to deliver a successful event.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9pcuooXEMG0

Video: Organized Blockchain event in 5 African Countries

B. Strong Ties with the Cardano Community:

• As Cardano Ambassadors and active members of the community, we have established credibility and trust within the ecosystem. We have built strong relationships with key stakeholders, including developers, innovators, and other leaders within the Cardano network.
• Our prior involvement in Project Catalyst has allowed us to understand how to efficiently and transparently manage community-driven initiatives and funding.

C. Regional Expertise:

• Our deep understanding of the African blockchain space, coupled with local partnerships, gives us the ability to navigate the logistics of organizing a major event in Africa. We have on-the-ground connections that can assist with venue selection, regional outreach, and ensuring the event is tailored to meet the needs of both the global and local blockchain communities.

2. Feasibility Validation

A. Pre-Event Planning and Feasibility Study:

• Initial Research: Before finalizing the event proposal, we conducted extensive research on the feasibility of hosting a major blockchain event in Africa. This included:
• Identifying suitable locations with strong logistical infrastructure (transportation, venues, technology, etc.).
• Surveying local blockchain communities to assess interest and participation potential.
• Engaging potential partners and sponsors, including global blockchain leaders, local governments, and institutions, to ensure widespread support.
• Budget and Resource Planning: We have created a detailed budget that covers all aspects of event planning, including venue rental, speaker fees, travel arrangements, marketing, and on-site management. This ensures that all potential costs are accounted for, and the event can be executed within the provided funding.
• Pilot Programs: To test our approach, we have organized smaller-scale virtual and in-person meetups across Africa through the Catalyst Africa Townhall, allowing us to refine our event management processes and confirm the demand for a large-scale blockchain event on the continent.

3. Existing Capabilities Demonstrating Suitability to Deliver the Project

A. Team Expertise:

• Experienced Event Management: Our core team has successfully managed various blockchain events, meetups, and educational sessions. We’ve worked closely with blockchain developers and industry experts to deliver high-quality content and foster community engagement.
• Project Management Skills: We have a team of certified project managers and individuals experienced in organizing large-scale initiatives. Our ability to meet deadlines, manage resources effectively, and communicate transparently will ensure the successful execution of the event.
• Community Engagement: With a strong background in community building, we understand how to engage and inspire participants. Our role as leaders within the Catalyst Africa Townhall has allowed us to grow the community significantly, and we will leverage these networks to promote the event and ensure maximum participation.

B. Financial Management and Transparency:

• Past Success in Fund Management: As members of Project Catalyst, we have successfully managed smaller grants and delivered on previous initiatives. Our experience includes adhering to funding guidelines, ensuring accountability, and providing clear, detailed reporting of expenses and project outcomes.
• Dedicated Financial Oversight: We will establish a dedicated financial team to ensure that all funds are managed appropriately. This team will include experienced professionals with backgrounds in finance, who will be responsible for:
• Budget Tracking: Maintaining up-to-date records of all expenses.
• Compliance: Ensuring that all funds are spent in line with the proposal’s stated goals.
• Reporting: Providing regular financial reports to the Cardano community and Project Catalyst on the usage of funds, as well as a final financial breakdown upon completion of the event.
• Partnerships with Reputable Vendors: To further ensure transparency and accountability, we will work with reputable local vendors for venue arrangements, technology support, and catering. All contracts and financial agreements will be formalized, with receipts and documentation provided for every expense.

4. Steps to Demonstrate Trust in Managing Funds Properly

A. Clear Financial Plan:

• Detailed Budget: We have created a detailed, transparent budget that includes itemized costs for every aspect of the event. This will be shared with the Cardano community to ensure transparency from the outset.
• Milestone-Based Payments: To further build trust, we will adopt a milestone-based approach to fund disbursement. Funds will only be drawn as key milestones (such as securing the venue, booking speakers, and launching the marketing campaign) are met, ensuring financial discipline.

B. Transparent Reporting and Governance:

• Public Financial Updates: We will provide regular updates to Project Catalyst and the wider Cardano community on our financial progress. This includes monthly budget reports detailing how funds are being spent and whether we are on track with our projected expenses.
• Post-Event Financial Breakdown: After the event, we will publish a comprehensive financial report that provides a full breakdown of how funds were utilized. This report will be shared with all stakeholders to demonstrate responsible fund management.

C. Risk Management and Contingency Planning:

• Risk Assessment: We have conducted a detailed risk assessment that identifies potential challenges (e.g., logistical issues, funding shortfalls, etc.) and developed contingency plans to address them. For example, we have secured backup venues and have contingency funds set aside to address unexpected costs.
• Partnership with Cardano Community Leaders: We have partnered with trusted members of the Cardano community to act as external advisors and auditors, providing an additional layer of oversight for fund management.

Conclusion:

Our team’s experience in event management, deep connections within the Cardano community, and strong financial oversight mechanisms ensure that we can deliver this project with high levels of trust and accountability. We have validated our approach through prior engagements, thorough planning, and pilot events, and are committed to transparent financial reporting, risk management, and delivering long-term value to the Cardano community.

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

Milestone 1: Planning, Team Formation, and Initial Setup (Month 1-2)

Activities:

• Finalize event location, venue, and date.
• Form event organizing team and assign roles (logistics, marketing, sponsorships).
• Establish partnerships with local and international sponsors.
• Launch the official marketing campaign (event website, social media, press releases).
• Begin ticket sales/registration and outreach to the community.

Acceptance Criteria:

• Signed contract with the event venue.
• Complete event organizing team in place.
• At least 3 sponsorship or partnership agreements confirmed.
• Event website launched with early registrations or ticket sales (100+ signups).
• Initial marketing campaign materials published.

Milestone 2: Speaker Confirmations and Event Logistics (Month 3-4)

Activities:

• Finalize list of speakers, panelists, and workshop leaders.
• Send invitations and confirm participation of keynote speakers.
• Secure logistical arrangements for speakers (travel, accommodation, etc.).
• Continue marketing and promotional activities to boost registrations.
• Confirm technical requirements for event (AV equipment, live streaming).

Acceptance Criteria:

• Full list of speakers and panelists confirmed.
• Travel and accommodation booked for international participants.
• Successful ongoing marketing campaign (200+ total registrations).
• All logistical arrangements for the event confirmed (vendors, permits, AV setup).

Milestone 3: Event Execution (Month 5-6)

Activities:

• Host the Cardano Alliance event (keynotes, panels, networking sessions).
• Manage on-site logistics, ensuring smooth execution (speakers, attendees, sponsors).
• Ensure technical aspects of the event, such as streaming and audio-visuals, run smoothly.
• Collect feedback from attendees, speakers, and sponsors.

Acceptance Criteria:

• Event successfully hosted without major disruptions.
• Target attendance reached (500+ participants).
• Positive feedback collected from attendees and key stakeholders.
• High-quality video recordings of sessions made available for post-event sharing.

Milestone 4: Post-Event Reporting and Impact Assessment (Month 7-8)

Activities:

• Compile and analyze event feedback and post-event surveys.
• Share recorded content (videos, presentations) with the global Cardano community.
• Submit final financial report and impact assessment to Project Catalyst.
• Begin planning for future editions or follow-up events (virtual or regional).

Acceptance Criteria:

• Comprehensive post-event report including feedback and impact assessment.
• All event content shared with the community.
• Final financial report submitted, demonstrating transparent use of funds.
• Positive event feedback leading to future event planning initiatives.

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

Team Overview and Roles

Afia Owusu

Role: Coordinator / Diversity and Inclusion Lead

Afia brings her extensive experience as the Hub Lead for the Accra Resource Centre and Coordinator of the Catalyst Africa Town Hall (CATH) and Catalyst Africa School. She has been an active member of the Cardano and Catalyst community since Fund 6, serving as both a Community Advisor (CA) and Veteran Community Advisor (vCA). Afia holds an MSc in Management Information Systems from the University of Lancaster, UK, and a BSc in Natural Resources Management from the University of Science and Technology, Ghana. Her dedication to blockchain education and sustainable development makes her an excellent coordinator for this project, ensuring smooth operations and community outreach.

Telegram: @AfiaAOwusu

Daniel

Role: Event Director

As the former President of the FinTech and Blockchain Society at the University of Aberdeen and a Cardano Ambassador, Daniel has been pivotal in driving blockchain adoption through the Catalyst Africa Town Hall as its Programs Manager. He has hosted prominent events like the Cardano Summit 2022 and was as a speaker for the Intersect Africa Regional Hub launch both Ghana and Kenya. Daniel’s experience in organizing and integrating communities across Africa positions him well to manage and expand community engagement for this project.

Telegram: @ddlezu

Twitter: @ddlezu

Ubio Obu

Role: Partnerships and Sponsorship Lead

Ubio is an accomplished AI researcher, blockchain expert, and CEO of RemoStart. His background in developing machine learning models and managing tech products in various industries gives him a unique perspective on technology's role in blockchain. As the coordinator for Nigeria, he will focus on engaging local communities and leading faculty and mentor coordination for the project. Ubio’s experience in event organization, including the CIP-1694 Lagos event, will ensure a strong Nigerian presence at the event.

Discord: Ubiodee#9502

LinkedIn: Ubio Obu

Boaz

Role: Blockchain Education Lead

My passion for environmental and sustainability issues naturally led me to explore blockchain technology, and Cardano’s commitment to a greener future truly resonated with me. I’ve been actively involved in Cardano’s journey through various roles:

Co-Proposing Funds 8 and 9: I played a key role in proposing and shaping these funding initiatives, which helped advance Cardano’s projects and foster community-driven innovations. Coordinating an NFT Project in Fund 9: I coordinated this project, managing its development and execution, which allowed me to engage creatively with Cardano’s ecosystem.

Serving as a Community Reviewer in Funds 10 and 11: My role involved evaluating project proposals and providing insights to ensure they met Cardano’s standards and objectives.

Verifying Proof of Life and Moderating Fund 11: I verified the legitimacy of project participants and moderated discussions, contributing to the integrity and success of Fund 11 initiatives.

Beyond these specific roles, I’ve focused on expanding Cardano’s reach in Africa:

Authored a Research Paper (March 2023): I analyzed African Stake Pools, which contributed to a better understanding of Cardano’s potential in the region.

Facilitated a Virtual CIP-1694 Workshop (June 2023): I led this workshop to engage the community and discuss Cardano’s governance improvements. Contributed to an In-Person CIP-1694 Workshop in Accra, Ghana (June 2023): My participation in this workshop helped strengthen Cardano’s presence and governance discussions in Africa.

Hosted the “Catalyst Africa Town Hall: Bridging the Gap for Continental Expansion” Workshop (December 2023): This event focused on expanding Cardano’s influence across the continent and bridging gaps within the community.

Co-Organized Workshops on Governance and Community Engagement in Goma (2021 & 2022 Summits): I helped organize these workshops, emphasizing the importance of governance and local engagement. Goma Stake Pool Manager: Managing the Goma Stake Pool reflects my commitment to supporting and growing Cardano’s presence in the region. In addition to my work with Cardano, I’ve also been actively involved with Intersect:

Member and Proposal Reviewer: I’ve participated as a member and reviewer, contributing to the assessment and guidance of proposals within Intersect.

Hosted Workshops: I have hosted several Intersect workshops, including the DReps Pioneer Program (Co-host), Intersect Meet-ups (Co-host), and the Launch of the Central Africa Regional Hub.

Elected to Represent the Community in Buenos Aires (December 2024): Recently, I hosted a workshop on the Cardano Constitution and was honored to be elected to represent the community in Buenos Aires later this year.

My involvement with both Cardano and Intersect reflects my dedication to blockchain technology, governance, and community development, with a particular focus on sustainability and regional expansion

Twitter: @BoazB5475

Discord: Bboaz#5475

Richmond Oppong

Role: Media and Public Relations Manager

Richmond is a graphic designer with over a decade of experience and has been deeply involved in the Cardano project through his work as a Community Advisor and Veteran Community Advisor across multiple Catalyst funds. His expertise in branding, design, and marketing will be key in creating the visual identity and promotional materials for this event, ensuring global attention and participation.

Twitter: @cardanoholious

[BUDGET & COSTS] Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

Budget Breakdown for Cardano Connect Africa: Uniting Global Blockchain Leaders in Africa

Total Requested Budget: 100,000 ADA

1. Event Venue and Logistics (30,000 ADA)

• Venue Rental: 15,000 ADA
• For a centrally located, high-capacity conference hall in a major African city, including breakout rooms for workshops and networking.
• Audio-Visual Equipment & Setup: 5,000 ADA
• Covers high-quality projectors, sound systems, live streaming equipment, and technicians.
• Catering Services: 7,000 ADA
• Includes meals and refreshments for attendees during the 3-day event.
• Logistics: 3,000 ADA
• For transportation, attendee management, event staff, security, and access control.

2. Marketing, Publicity, and Community Engagement (20,000 ADA)

• Digital Marketing Campaign: 10,000 ADA
• To run targeted ads, social media campaigns, and influencer marketing to attract a global audience and regional participation.
• Branding and Event Materials: 5,000 ADA
• Includes banners, promotional materials, merchandise, and branded items for the event.
• Media Partnerships & Press Releases: 3,000 ADA
• Partnerships with media outlets, influencer collaborations, and distribution of press releases to promote the event globally.
• Local Community Engagement: 2,000 ADA
• Hosting pre-event workshops and local meetups to engage regional blockchain communities and increase awareness.

3. Travel and Accommodation (15,000 ADA)

• Keynote Speakers and Special Guests: 10,000 ADA
• Flights, accommodation, and transportation for prominent speakers and industry leaders.
• Team Travel and Accommodation: 5,000 ADA
• Covering the core team and facilitators’ travel and stay during the event.

4. Technical Infrastructure (10,000 ADA)

• Event Platform and Live Streaming: 5,000 ADA
• For a secure platform to broadcast the event online, ensuring global access, plus live streaming for key sessions.
• IT Support and Hardware: 3,000 ADA
• On-site technical support for the live event, setting up computers, and network infrastructure.
• Event Mobile App Development: 2,000 ADA
• Development of a mobile app for attendees to view event schedules, interact with speakers, and engage in live polls or Q&A sessions.

5. Project Management and Coordination (10,000 ADA)

• Project Management: 5,000 ADA
• Coordinating the planning, execution, and follow-up of the event, ensuring deadlines are met and resources are efficiently allocated.
• Event Staffing & Volunteers: 3,000 ADA
• For recruitment, training, and management of volunteers and staff members who will support the event.
• Legal & Accounting Services: 2,000 ADA
• For securing necessary permits, contracts, and managing the financial aspects of the project.

6. Documentation and Post-Event Reporting (5,000 ADA)

• Documentation of Event: 3,000 ADA
• Capturing event highlights, producing a final report, and publishing key findings for the wider Cardano community.
• Post-Event Reporting: 2,000 ADA
• Submission of a detailed impact report, financials, and lessons learned to Project Catalyst and the community.

7. Contingency Fund (10,000 ADA)

• Contingency Reserve: 10,000 ADA
• For unexpected expenses, emergencies, or any changes in logistics that may arise during the project execution.

Third-Party Products and Services

1. Event Management Software (5,000 ADA)
2. We will use a third-party event platform for virtual attendance and live-streaming capabilities. This service will also provide ticketing, attendee tracking, and session feedback.
3. Legal and Accounting Services (2,000 ADA)
4. Professional services will ensure that all contracts, permits, and financial records are properly maintained and audited, ensuring transparency and compliance.
5. Media Partners and Marketing Agencies (5,000 ADA)
6. We will collaborate with external agencies for running international and local digital marketing campaigns, ensuring effective global reach and engagement.

Alternative Funding Sources

If the total cost exceeds the requested 100,000 ADA, we plan to seek sponsorships from blockchain companies, technology firms, and local businesses. Additionally, we may introduce ticket sales for the event, offering VIP and standard access to offset costs.

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

Value for Money

The proposed cost of 100,000 ADA for the Cardano Connect Africa: Uniting Global Blockchain Leaders in Africa project represents excellent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem due to the following reasons:

High Impact with Global Reach

This event will unite blockchain enthusiasts, developers, entrepreneurs, and global leaders under one roof, fostering collaborations that could accelerate the adoption and growth of Cardano across Africa and beyond. Africa is a rapidly developing blockchain market, and creating opportunities for local communities to interact with global experts can propel the ecosystem forward. The cost is justified when considering the scale of influence, media coverage, and community engagement we aim to generate.

Proportional to Event Industry Standards

The cost breakdown, especially for venue rental, logistics, and event marketing, is competitive when compared to industry standards for large-scale conferences. Venue rental in major African cities for events of this size typically ranges between 10,000 - 20,000 ADA, making our estimate of 15,000 ADA reasonable. Similarly, marketing costs reflect the investment needed for a high-impact campaign that will reach local and international audiences, driving participation and engagement from diverse Cardano stakeholders.

Efficient Use of Resources

We’ve carefully planned each budget element, with event logistics and technical infrastructure optimized to provide a seamless experience both for in-person and virtual attendees. For example, using a third-party event platform ensures a professional, accessible, and scalable event that can accommodate thousands of participants while remaining cost-effective.

Supporting Local Economies

Many of the services, such as venue rental, logistics, and local community engagement activities, will be sourced from local businesses in Africa, ensuring the funds contribute to the development of the region. Additionally, the costs for project management, travel, and accommodation are aligned with the average wage levels for skilled professionals in Africa, ensuring fair compensation for team members while maintaining an efficient budget.

Long-Term Value

The success of this event will lay the foundation for future blockchain conferences in Africa, enabling Cardano to establish a lasting presence in the region. The outputs of this project, including event recordings, reports, and network connections, will have enduring value, and the knowledge shared will continue to empower the African blockchain ecosystem long after the event has concluded.

Cost Comparison and Industry Benchmarks

Similar global blockchain events can cost significantly more, often ranging from 150,000 ADA to 300,000 ADA depending on location and scope. By leveraging local expertise, optimizing resources, and seeking sponsorships, we have ensured that our budget remains lean yet effective. Our marketing costs are proportional to freelance rates in Africa and globally, ensuring we get the best return on investment.

Transparent Financial Management

We are committed to transparency, with clearly outlined milestones, reporting mechanisms, and regular updates to the community on how funds are spent. Our use of legal and accounting services will ensure that funds are properly managed, adding an additional layer of trust and accountability.