Empowering Dubai Expats

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Tadesse D.

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

Entity (Not Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Co-proposers and additional applicants

Fikirte Gejo

[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)

We will create educational programs, meetups, and networking events targeting expat software developers and Emirate ID holders in Dubai to foster Cardano adoption and blockchain innovation.

[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

Our project will be fully open-source under the MIT License. All educational materials, developer resources, and tools created for the meetups and training programs will be available in a public GitHub repository. This includes any Cardano-related tutorials, code samples, and multilingual documentation tailored for the expat software developer community in Dubai.

[METADATA] Horizons

Education

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

The lack of targeted blockchain education and outreach programs for expat software developers and Emirate ID holders in Dubai is hindering the growth of the Cardano ecosystem in this vital region. Dubai’s expat community consists of highly skilled developers, but the absence of structured education and engagement opportunities limits their ability to contribute to Cardano’s growth.

Proposed Solution

We aim to bridge this gap by developing a comprehensive program focused on educating and engaging Dubai’s expat developer community. Our solution is designed to onboard these developers into the Cardano ecosystem through targeted educational programs, practical workshops, networking events, and developer outreach. Below are the detailed approaches we plan to implement:

1. Developer-Focused Meetups

We will organize hands-on, in-person and virtual meetups aimed at teaching expat software developers the technical skills needed to build decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts on Cardano using Plutus, Lucid, and other Cardano development tools.

• Topics covered will include smart contract development, NFT minting, tracking on explorer, and blockchain integration into existing systems.
• Tailored Content: The curriculum will be designed specifically for the unique challenges faced by expat developers, focusing on their integration into the local tech industry as well as global blockchain trends.
• Hands-On Learning: Developers will leave each meetup with working prototypes, and ongoing support will be provided for further development.

2. Hackathons and Developer Challenges

To inspire innovation and foster practical experience, we will host hackathons targeted at Dubai’s expat developer community.

• Challenges: Participants will be tasked with developing real-world solutions using Cardano, such as decentralized finance (DeFi) applications, NFT platforms, or remittance solutions.
• Prizes and Support: Winning teams will receive funding to further develop their projects and mentorship from experienced Cardano developers.
• Impact: This will not only increase developers' familiarity with Cardano’s tools but also generate real-world use cases that can be implemented within Dubai and beyond.

3. Networking and Mentorship Programs

We will establish mentorship programs connecting expat developers with experienced Cardano developers and blockchain industry leaders.

• Personalized Guidance: Each participant will receive mentorship tailored to their needs and aspirations in blockchain development, covering both technical aspects and career advice.
• Networking Events: Regular meetups and networking events will be organized to bring together expats, local developers, and industry stakeholders, encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing.
• Community-Building: These events will create a strong network of blockchain professionals in Dubai, laying the foundation for a growing and engaged Cardano developer community.

4. Multilingual Educational Resources

To cater to the diversity of Dubai’s expat population, we will develop a suite of multilingual educational resources.

• Languages Covered: English, Hindi, Amharic, and other widely spoken languages among expats in Dubai.
• Developer-Focused Content: These resources will include tutorials, guides, and case studies tailored to developers looking to work with Cardano.
• Accessible Formats: Both written materials and video content will be made available, ensuring accessibility for all learning styles.

5. Online Webinars & Virtual Training

In addition to in-person events, we will host virtual webinars and training sessions to reach developers who may not be able to attend physical events.

• Global Participation: This will allow developers from around the world, including expats who travel frequently, to engage with the program.
• Recorded Content: Webinars will be recorded and made available online, providing a lasting repository of educational content.
• Expert-Led Sessions: Webinars will be led by Cardano experts, covering both introductory and advanced topics, such as decentralized identity (DID) and scalability solutions.

6. Targeted Marketing and Outreach

We will implement targeted marketing campaigns to raise awareness of the program among expat developers in Dubai.

• Social Media Campaigns: Using platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter, we will reach expat developers with ads and posts tailored to their interests in blockchain and development.
• Outreach through Expats' Communities: We will collaborate with expat communities and associations in Dubai, such as tech-focused meetups, to promote our program.
• Collaborations with Tech Hubs: Partnering with coworking spaces, tech hubs, and incubators, we will promote the program and create awareness about the opportunities Cardano offers for expat developers.

7. Cardano Developer Certifications

We will offer blockchain development certifications for expats who complete the workshops and bootcamps, providing them with valuable credentials that can boost their careers.

• Industry-Recognized Certification: Certifications will be recognized across the Cardano ecosystem and can be displayed by developers on their professional profiles.
• Career Advancement: This initiative will open doors for developers to work on Cardano projects both locally and globally, contributing to their professional growth and to Cardano’s expansion.

8. Remittance and Financial Solutions Focus

Given that many expats are involved in remittances, we will highlight Cardano’s low-cost, efficient solutions for cross-border payments.

• Educational Sessions: We will hold dedicated sessions to demonstrate how Cardano can be leveraged for remittance solutions, offering expats secure and low-cost options to send money home.
• RealFi Solutions: Developers will learn how to build RealFi applications on Cardano that address the financial needs of expats and their families abroad.

9. Collaborations with Local Businesses and Government

We will seek partnerships with local businesses and government initiatives that align with the UAE’s vision of becoming a blockchain hub.

• Business Collaborations: Engage local enterprises to adopt Cardano for use cases such as supply chain management and digital identity solutions.
• Government Collaboration: Align with government programs aimed at fostering blockchain development and innovation in Dubai, helping to drive both policy support and project funding for developers working on Cardano.

10. Monitoring and Impact Assessment

To ensure the success of the program, we will implement a robust monitoring and evaluation system to measure impact.

• KPIs: Track the number of participants, successful dApps developed, and Cardano-related startups initiated by expat developers.
• Surveys and Feedback: Regular surveys will be conducted to assess participant satisfaction and identify areas for improvement.
• Public Reporting: The results and progress of the initiative will be shared publicly to demonstrate the positive impact on the Cardano ecosystem in Dubai.

Unique Value:

The project is unique in its focus on Dubai’s expat developer community, leveraging their skills to accelerate Cardano adoption. By empowering these individuals, we not only expand the developer ecosystem but also position Cardano as a leading platform in a key global tech hub.

Impact Measurement:

We will track success through developer participation, project creation during hackathons, and the number of expat developers who integrate Cardano into their personal or professional projects. This initiative will expand the Cardano community, build technical capacity, and drive adoption within Dubai.

By implementing these comprehensive approaches, we will empower expat developers and Emirate ID holders in Dubai to become active contributors to the Cardano ecosystem. This initiative will not only foster blockchain education but also create a robust developer community, driving innovation and adoption of Cardano in a key global hub. This project is essential for expanding Cardano’s global footprint, particularly in a region known for embracing technological advancements. The ten approaches listed above form our overall roadmap. In this funding round, we will focus on implementing some of these approaches as outlined in the milestone section.

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

This project will significantly contribute to the Cardano ecosystem by onboarding and educating expat developers and Emirate ID holders in Dubai, a region with a high concentration of skilled professionals. By equipping this community with blockchain development skills, the initiative will foster the growth of Cardano’s global footprint and encourage the creation of innovative dApps and blockchain solutions. The program will include workshops, hackathons, and certification courses, all designed to immerse developers in the Cardano ecosystem.

Impact will be measured through key quantitative metrics such as the number of participants, projects created, certifications earned, and growth in community engagement. Qualitative feedback from participants, case studies, and new partnerships formed will also help gauge the success of the initiative. All outputs, including dApps and educational materials, will be shared under an open-source MIT License, enabling broader community use and adoption.

To further spread the benefits, we will regularly publish reports on progress and success stories, engage with Cardano Ambassadors, and organize showcase events to highlight the work of participating developers. This project will create a replicable model for fostering blockchain development in other regions, enhancing Cardano’s global presence and adoption.

[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?

Our team has a proven track record in delivering blockchain projects, with extensive experience in the Cardano ecosystem and successful participation in prior Catalyst-funded initiatives. We have previously developed and launched blockchain-based applications, open-source tools, and educational programs, which positions us well to execute this project effectively.

To ensure trust and accountability, we will implement transparent processes throughout the project lifecycle. This includes regular progress reports, financial transparency through detailed budget tracking, and milestone-based delivery to ensure each phase is completed before moving on to the next. We will also engage with the Cardano community, providing frequent updates and open communication via forums, social media, and GitHub repositories.

Our approach will be validated through pilot testing of the meetup, as well as by gathering feedback from participants. Metrics such as the number of trained developers, completed projects, and active community engagement will serve as key performance indicators to ensure the project is on track and impactful. By adhering to best practices in project management and maintaining open-source outputs, we aim to uphold the highest standards of trust, accountability, and feasibility.

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

Program Planning and Recruitment (Month 1)

Objective: Set up foundational structures and recruit participants for the program.

Key Tasks:

• Develop a detailed curriculum and workshop structure for educating expat developers.
• Build partnerships with local tech hubs, universities, and blockchain meetups in Dubai to promote the initiative.
• Recruit Emirate ID holders and expat developers through targeted outreach campaigns.

Acceptance Criteria:

• Finalized curriculum and program structure.
• Partnerships established with local tech hubs or organizations.

Developer meetups (Month 2-3)

Objective: Deliver hands-on and virtual training through meetups on Cardano development.

Key Tasks:

• Organize and conduct a meetup focused on Cardano smart contracts, Plutus, and Lucid.
• Provide mentorship and one-on-one support for participants.
• Facilitate live coding sessions and preprod-building.

Acceptance Criteria:

• Successful completion of meetups.

2-week class and Developer Certification (Month 4)

Objective: Encourage innovation through a meetup result and certify participants as Cardano developers.

Key Tasks:

• Host a 2-week virtual class where participants build their own NFT or solutions using Cardano.
• Offer certification examples for developers to validate their knowledge and skills.
• Provide mentorship and guidance throughout the virtual class.

Acceptance Criteria:

• At least 5 fully developed smart contracts, dApps or solutions presented at the class.
• NFT certification policy and transaction id of participants.

Community Engagement and Showcasing (Month 5)

Objective: Showcase the results and engage the broader Cardano community.

Key Tasks:

• Host virtual and in-person events to showcase the projects developed by participants.
• Publish success stories and case studies.
• Engage with Cardano Ambassadors and community members to share results.

Acceptance Criteria:

• At least 2 showcase events successfully held.
• 5 case studies published and shared with the Cardano community.
• Significant community engagement metrics (e.g., social media reach, forum discussions).

Project Close-out and Reporting (Month 6)

Objective: Conclude the project and provide final reports.

Key Tasks:

• Prepare and submit the final project close-out report, including key learnings and financial breakdowns.
• Create and release a video summarizing the project’s success and impact.
• Ensure all open-source materials are available on GitHub.

Acceptance Criteria:

• Submission of the project close-out report and video.
• Public release of all open-source materials.
• Final financial and impact metrics delivered to the Catalyst community.

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

Core Project Team

1.Markos Muche – Project Lead and Blockchain Specialist

• Role: Oversee the entire project, ensuring alignment with the vision, goals, and objectives. Facilitate partnerships, outreach, and manage coordination between team members.
• LinkedIn: Markos Muche
• Expertise: Extensive experience in blockchain development, project management, and Cardano Catalyst projects.
• Experience - SingularityNet, iCog Labs, iCardio.io
• Certifications - Microsoft: Azure Fundamentals, Azure Data Scientist Associate, Google: Perform Foundational Infrastructure Tasks in Google Cloud, Migrating MySQL data to Cloud SQL using Database Migration Service, Introduction to AI and Machine Learning on Google Cloud, Google Cloud Essentials, Develop your Google Cloud Network, Create and Manage Cloud Resources, Build Infrastructure with Terraform on Google Cloud, Reliable Google Cloud Infrastructure: Design and Process, Essential Google Cloud Infrastructure: Foundation, Essential Google Cloud Infrastructure: Core Services

2.Faizur Reshid(PhD) – Content Research and Education Lead

• Role: Develop the educational curriculum for Cardano workshops and bootcamps, focusing on Cardano smart contracts and decentralized applications.
• LinkedIn: Faizur Reshid
• Expertise: Expert in blockchain education and content curation, with a focus on developer-focused materials.
• Assistant professor at Haramaya University
• Experience: Contributed on previously funded projects. Check here Project 1, Project 2, Project 3

3.Tadesse D – Developer and Technical Mentor

• Role: Lead technical workshops and provide hands-on mentoring to developers participating in the program, guiding them in dApp development and Plutus.
• Telegram:Tadesse
• Expertise: Backend development, blockchain architecture, and smart contract development.
• Experience: Funded proposer on previous fund. Check here Project 1, Project 2, Project 3. Co-founder of Herma apps
• Certification: Cardano Blockchain Certified Associate (CBCA) - Certificate Number 5353074

4.Samuel Birhanu Wada – Backend Developer and Hackathon Organizer

• Role: Support the technical execution of hackathons and backend development workshops. Help participants implement decentralized solutions.
• Github:Samuel Birhanu
• Expertise: Skilled in backend architecture, blockchain APIs, and hackathon facilitation.
• Experience: Contributed on previously funded projects. Check here Project 1, Project 2, Project 3

5.Fikirte Gejo – Community Engagement 

• Telegram:Fikirte
• Role: Design the user interface for educational materials, ensure the platform is user-friendly, and assist in organizing community engagement events.
• LinkedIn: [Mohammed Ibrahim LinkedIn Profile]
• Expertise: UI/UX design for educational platforms and developer tools, with a focus on blockchain apps.

6.Tadesse Duressa – Frontend Developer

• Role: Implement frontend components for hackathon projects and developer tools. Assist with creating interactive educational resources.
• LinkedIn: [Tadesse Duressa LinkedIn Profile]
• Expertise: Frontend development for dApps, with experience in React and Cardano-based interfaces.

7.Tensae Berhanu - Technical Writer & Documentation Specialist

• LinkedIn:Tensae Berhanu
• Role: Creating comprehensive documentation and tutorials for users, as well as maintaining the open-source repository with clear and accessible information.
• Experience - iCog Labs

This team is well-equipped to deliver the project due to their previous experience with Cardano, blockchain education, and community-building efforts. All team members have been engaged, and we are prepared to begin as soon as funding is approved.

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

1.Meetups:

• Venue and logistics): 12,000 AA
• Materials and resources (study guides, software tools): 3,500 ADA
• Guest speakers and expert facilitators: 8,000 ADA
• Recording and streaming setup for virtual attendees: 2,500 ADA

2.In-person events :

• Venue and equipment rental: 10,000 ADA
• Payment for Guest speakers : 7,000 ADA
• Tea/Coffee and event logistics: 3,000 ADA
• Event facilitation and mentorship: 5,000 ADA

3.Educational Curriculum Development:

• Content creation (tutorials, documentation): 9,500 ADA
• Developer resources (Plutus, Lucid guides): 6,000 ADA

4.Marketing and Community Engagement:

• Digital marketing campaign: 6,000 ADA
• Community outreach events (meetups, partnerships): 4,500 ADA
• Social media management and PR: 3,500 ADA

5.Project Management and Operations:

• Project lead and coordination: 7,000 ADA
• Administrative support (scheduling, reporting): 3,500 ADA
• Legal and accounting services: 4,000 ADA

6.Documentation and Reporting:

• Project updates and milestone reports: 2,500 ADA
• Final project close-out report and video: 2,500 ADA

Total: 100,000 ADA

This budget will cover all necessary aspects of our project, ensuring high-quality educational experiences for the Dubai developer expat community while maintaining transparency in fund management.

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

The proposed budget of 100,000 ADA represents strong value for money, especially considering the scope and impact on the Cardano ecosystem. Here's why:

1.Targeting a High-Potential Developer Community: Dubai is home to a large expat community, with many skilled developers who can be onboarded into the Cardano ecosystem. By focusing on this group, we aim to maximize the return on investment by engaging with a talented pool of individuals who can contribute to Cardano's growth through dApp development, governance, and community initiatives.

2.Efficient Use of Resources: Each cost has been carefully planned to ensure efficiency:

• The venue and logistical costs for workshops and hackathons are aligned with local market rates in Dubai, a city known for its higher living costs.
• The marketing budget is designed to effectively reach thousands of potential developers and Cardano enthusiasts, ensuring wide community engagement.
• Content creation, curriculum development, and developer guides represent a one-time investment with long-term value, as these resources can be reused and shared across the global Cardano community.

3.Leverage of Sponsorships and In-Kind Support: We are securing in-kind sponsorships from local companies, such as venue spaces and technical equipment, reducing the overall burden on the requested ADA and enhancing the project’s reach at minimal additional cost.

4.Sustainable Growth: The educational curriculum and hackathons are designed to produce lasting value by creating a sustainable developer base within Dubai. This directly contributes to the long-term growth of the Cardano ecosystem by cultivating new developers and promoting the adoption of Cardano blockchain technologies.

5.Proportional and Competitive Rates: The rates for project management, legal services, and educational content creation are in line with average professional rates for Dubai. Each service has been evaluated to ensure competitive pricing while maintaining high standards of quality.

In summary, the budget is structured to deliver maximum impact within a controlled expenditure, ensuring that each ADA spent contributes directly to the growth, education, and onboarding of new developers into the Cardano ecosystem. This approach is strategic, sustainable, and offers exceptional value for money.