Cardano Enterprise Solutions (CES) - supporting enterprise integration into Cardano

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Sacha Windisch

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

Entity (Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Requested funds in ada

150000

[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)

Cardano Enterprise Solutions (CES) bridges Web2 and Web3, accelerating Cardano adoption with tailored blockchain solutions, strategic partnerships, and industry-focused 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?

No

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

Cardano Enterprise Solutions (CES) primarily focuses on strategic partnerships, business development, and ecosystem engagement, rather than software development. Therefore, there is no code to open source at this stage. However, we are committed to the principles of open source. If we develop specific technologies or tools during our work, we will release them under an open-source license to ensure transparency and collaboration within the Cardano ecosystem. This commitment aligns with our goal of contributing to the community's growth and innovation.

[METADATA] Horizons

Accelerator

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Problem Perception: Cardano's current underutilization and slower adoption rate compared to other Layer 1 blockchains are primarily due to insufficient strategic outreach and business development efforts. This has limited its potential to attract large-scale institutional users and industry leaders. Additionally, many Web2 companies have experimented with blockchain through NFTs but have not continued with proof of concepts due to regulatory uncertainties and unfamiliarity with integrating blockchain into existing workflows.

Our Solution: Cardano Enterprise Solutions (CES) is a dedicated brand aimed at driving and accelerating enterprise adoption of Cardano. Our team, which includes experienced professionals such as two former Partnerships Senior Managers from the Cardano Foundation, actively pursues integration and commercial opportunities while serving as a trusted source of information. CES will initially launch as an enterprise-friendly website providing general information about the Cardano blockchain and its benefits as a Layer 1 solution.

Our goal is to support Web2 companies by simplifying the technical jargon of Web3, enabling them to utilize Cardano for its intended purposes—enhancing authentication, traceability, and sustainability.

The CES website will:

• Highlight key blockchain use cases.
• Provide integration options in a language that Web2 enterprises understand.
• Offer services to facilitate fundraising, grant making, design, and implementation, effectively bridging industry to innovation.

Marketing and Engagement Strategy: To effectively reach and onboard Web2 companies, CES will implement a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes:

• Brand Development: Establish a strong CES brand identity that resonates with enterprise clients, emphasising Cardano's unique benefits such as enhanced security, scalability, and sustainability.
• Viva Tech Conference Presence: We will have a CES-branded booth at Viva Technology in Paris, a premier event for technology and innovation. This will serve as a platform to showcase Cardano's capabilities, engage with potential partners, and establish CES as a leader in blockchain solutions for enterprises.
• Content Marketing: Develop educational content, including whitepapers, webinars, and case studies, to demystify blockchain technology and highlight its practical applications for various industries.
• Targeted Outreach: Utilize account-based marketing (ABM) strategies to engage specific high-value companies with personalized marketing efforts, focusing on industries where blockchain can add significant value, such as supply chain, finance, healthcare, and retail.
• Partnerships and Collaborations: Forge strategic partnerships with industry associations and technology partners to expand our reach and credibility within target markets.

Proven Model: Our model has been successfully tested, as demonstrated by our collaboration with TRAKX.io, an AMF-regulated European leader in Crypto Tradable Indices (CTI). TRAKX received a grant from Catalyst Fund 12 to add a Cardano Native Tokens basket on the leading platform for crypto-index trading. This success exemplifies our ability to drive significant adoption and utilization of Cardano's technology. Additionally, both Sacha and Riz have extensive experience in technology transformation projects for multinationals, including creating new products, launching in new markets, dealing with regulators, building strategic partnerships, and implementing target operating models.

Initiatives: In Fund 13, we are introducing four proposals in the Product category:

1. Connected Goods: Blockchain for brand authenticity and engagement.
2. UVerify: On-chain data verification bridging Web2 and blockchain.
3. Asymmetric NFC: Secure crypto wallet and transaction signing.
4. Crypto Recovery Insurance: Protects Cardano assets with recovery cost coverage.

These initiatives illustrate our capacity to strategically select, engage with, and support projects that will significantly impact Cardano's adoption and utilization across various industries and verticals. We are also relying on a rich pipeline of additional projects to further drive this momentum.

Uniqueness and Benefits: CES will facilitate the onboarding of enterprises into Cardano by leveraging our ability to make commercial deals that the founding entities cannot, due to their positions. This includes revenue sharing, referral commissions, fundraising facilitation, pitch deck creation, sales strategy, and transformation. Not only does this bode well with Web2 customers (as that's how they're used to operating), it also helps create a revenue stream for CES so we aren't dependant on grant funding to continue our operations.

Importance to Cardano: This initiative is crucial for Cardano as it seeks to expand its use cases and establish itself as a competitive Layer 1 solution. By attracting large-scale, institutional users, CES will help validate Cardano's technology, increase transaction volumes, and enhance the network's reputation and market presence. Ultimately, this will contribute to the long-term growth and sustainability of the Cardano ecosystem.

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

Mission and Value Proposition: Cardano Enterprise Solutions (CES) is dedicated to bridging the gap between Cardano's technological innovations and institutional scaling partners. Our mission is to facilitate the adoption of Cardano by connecting promising projects with the resources and strategic guidance they need to succeed.

Engagement and Strategic Expansion: We have already engaged with prominent projects within and beyond the Cardano ecosystem. These projects recognize the intrinsic value CES adds but often lack the resources to implement similar strategies internally. By outsourcing strategic expansion efforts to our team, these companies can focus on their core objectives, leveraging our expertise to drive growth and integration.

Impact Measurement: We will measure the impact of CES through both quantitative and qualitative metrics, for example:

• Quantitative Metrics: Number of new enterprise partnerships, increased on-chain activity, transaction volumes, and successful project integrations onto the Cardano platform.
• Qualitative Metrics: Feedback from partners and stakeholders, case studies of successful integrations, and testimonials from engaged enterprises.

Sharing Outputs and Opportunities: CES is committed to transparency and collaboration within the Cardano community. We will share our outputs and opportunities through:

• Regular Reports: Publishing progress reports and impact assessments to the Cardano community.
• Online Platforms: Utilizing the CES website and social media channels to disseminate information and engage with the community.

Value to the Cardano Community: The success of CES will bring significant value to the Cardano community by enhancing operational efficiency and enriching the ecosystem with diverse and robust projects. By facilitating enterprise adoption, CES will help validate Cardano's technology, increase transaction volumes, and strengthen the network's reputation and market presence. This, in turn, will contribute to the long-term growth and sustainability of the Cardano ecosystem.

[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?

Team Capabilities and Expertise:

Our team comprises two former partnership managers from the Cardano Foundation, bringing extensive experience across Europe, Asia, MENA, and the Americas. Strategically based in London and Montreal, we provide global coverage and ensure responsiveness across all time zones. Our deep integration within the Cardano ecosystem is evidenced by:

• Direct Connections: We maintain direct links with founders and influential figures within the Cardano community.
• Strong Relationships: We have established strong relationships with key stakeholders and leading projects within the ecosystem.
• Expert Recognition: We are recognized as trusted experts in Cardano's technology and strategic development.

Background and Experience:

Our academic credentials and professional experiences uniquely position us to lead this initiative:

• Academic Backgrounds: Our team members hold degrees in Finance from McGill University and Computer Science from University College London.
• Professional Experience: We have held executive roles in management consulting, tech entrepreneurship, equity derivatives trading, project management, technical integration, and strategic planning.
• Industry Exposure: Our experience spans sectors including blockchain, financial services, technology, manufacturing, retail, and real estate.
• Previous Employers: We have worked with top-tier institutions such as Goldman Sachs, Lehman Brothers, the Bank of England, AT Kearney, Cantor Fitzgerald, Cognizant, and directly within the Cardano Foundation.

Feasibility and Operational Readiness:

• Proven Track Record: Over the past 2.5 years, we have tested and validated our value proposition, demonstrating the model's viability.
• Established Contacts: We have established communication with over 10 major projects within the Cardano ecosystem.
• Broader Network: We actively engage with 85 startups and industry players outside the Cardano ecosystem.
• Pipeline Companies: We have identified 14 companies in our pipeline ready to build on Cardano.

Successful Implementation:

Our model was successful during Fund 12. We identified Trakx.io, a European leader in crypto thematic indices, as a gateway for Cardano native tokens to gain institutional visibility and enhance ecosystem liquidity. We introduced Trakx.io to Cardano and organized a roadshow on several community calls to present the project and address community questions. As a result, Trakx.io was successfully funded and is facilitating access to Cardano Native Tokens for institutional investors through a custom-tailored index representing a basket of native Cardano tokens.

Trust and Accountability:

• Financial Management: We have robust processes in place to manage funds responsibly, ensuring transparency and accountability in all financial transactions.
• Regular Reporting: We commit to providing regular updates and detailed reports to stakeholders, demonstrating progress and financial integrity.
• Community Engagement: We will maintain open lines of communication with the Cardano community, seeking feedback and ensuring alignment with community goals.

By leveraging our expertise, proven track record, and strategic approach, we are well-equipped to deliver this project with high levels of trust and accountability.

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

Project Planning

A: Milestone Outputs

• Comprehensive project plan detailing:
• timelines, 
• responsibilities, 
• resource allocation.

B: Acceptance Criteria

• Completion of a detailed project plan that outlines all phases of the CES initiative, including key activities, timelines, and assigned responsibilities.

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Submission of the finalized project plan document to stakeholders.

Platform Development and Initial Engagement

A: Milestone Outputs

• Development and launch of the CES website.
• Define CES value proposition

B: Acceptance Criteria

• The CES website is live and fully functional, providing resources about Cardano integration for enterprises.
• Establishment of initial contact and collaboration plans with initial selection of key projects.

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Website URL with data such as FAQs and resources.
• Documentation of initial project plans and engagement summaries with the first set of projects.

Marketing & On-boarding to Cardano

A: Milestone Outputs

• Develop a marketing strategy with a heavy focus on having a CES branded booth at Viva Tech
• Draft MOU which we can use to execute partnerships with selected projects which are open to Cardano integrations

B: Acceptance Criteria

• Marketing strategy includes branding for CES, target industries in Web2, conference strategy, content marketing and outreach planning
• Draft MOU created by law firm for CES to use with customers

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Marketing strategy document signed off by Sacha and Riz
• Evidence of booth at Viva Technology in Paris with list of potential partnerships

Outputs

• Final project report and presentation video summarizing achievements and lessons learned.

Acceptance Criteria

• Comprehensive final report detailing all project activities, outcomes, and future recommendations.
• A presentation video that effectively communicates the project's impact and future potential.

Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Submission of the final report to stakeholders.
• Presentation video published on social media channels

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

Sacha Windisch

Responsibilities: Sacha will spearhead the marketing strategy, focusing on branding, outreach, and engagement with potential partners. Sacha will also provide consulting expertise to align the project with industry standards and best practices.

Riz Pabani

Responsibilities: Riz will lead the web development efforts, ensuring the technical aspects of the CES website are robust and fully functional. Additionally, Riz will manage the overall project, coordinating timelines, resources, and deliverables to ensure all milestones are met efficiently.

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

Total Budget: 150,000 ADA

Contingency: 5% = 7,500 ADA

Milestone 1: Project Planning (20% = 30,000 ADA)

• Project Manager: 50% = 15,000 ADA
• Marketing and Consulting Specialist: 50% = 15,000 ADA

Milestone 2: Platform Development and Initial Engagement (20% = 30,000 ADA)

• Web Developer: 50% = 15,000 ADA
• Project Manager: 30% = 9,000 ADA
• Marketing and Consulting Specialist: 20% = 6,000 ADA

Milestone 3: Marketing & On-boarding to Cardano (50% = 75,000 ADA)

• Project Manager: 30% = 22,500 ADA
• Web Developer: 20% = 15,000 ADA
• Marketing and Consulting Specialist: 50% = 37,500 ADA

Final Milestone: Project Review and Reporting (5% = 7,500 ADA)

• Project Manager: 30% = 2,250 ADA
• Marketing and Consulting Specialist: 70% = 5,250 ADA

Summary

• Project Manager Total: 48,750 ADA
• Web Developer Total: 30,000 ADA
• Marketing and Consulting Specialist Total: 63,750 ADA
• Contingency Total: 7,500 ADA

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

Value for Money Justification

Strategic Enterprise Adoption: The CES project focuses on driving enterprise adoption of Cardano, a critical avenue for expanding the blockchain's use cases beyond typical consumer applications. By investing in CES, the ecosystem is placing resources towards attracting large-scale, institutional and industrial users who can bring substantial transaction volume and stability to the Cardano network. This will contribute to further positioning Cardano as a competitive Layer 1 solution.

Strategic Investment in Key Areas: The budget is allocated across four critical milestones: project planning, platform development and initial engagement, engagement and initial integration, and project review and reporting. Each phase is essential for ensuring the project's success and long-term sustainability.

Industry-Standard Costs:

• Platform Development and Initial Engagement: The costs for website development and content creation are aligned with industry standards for freelance design and development services. This ensures a professional and informative platform that supports enterprise decision-making, a crucial step for attracting institutional users.
• Engagement and Initial Integration: The budget supports technical integration and strategic planning, which are necessary for establishing partnerships and increasing on-chain activity. These costs are justified by the potential for significant partnerships that can drive Cardano's adoption.

Proportional to Market Rates: The costs are proportional to typical freelance rates and average wages in the industry. For example, web development and marketing expenses reflect standard rates for high-quality services, ensuring that the project leverages top-tier expertise without overspending.

Long-Term Benefits and Multiplier Effect: By facilitating enterprise adoption, CES acts as a catalyst for further ecosystem growth. Each new partnership potentially opens up additional channels for users and transactions, enhancing liquidity and network robustness. This multiplier effect increases the overall value of the Cardano network, making the initial investment highly cost-effective.

Sustainability and Self-Sufficiency: The project is designed to build commercial partnerships and develop revenue-sharing models, reducing reliance on continuous funding from Catalyst grants. This approach encourages sustainability and financial independence, setting a precedent for other projects within the ecosystem.

Enhanced Visibility and Credibility: Participation in blockchain events and maintaining an active online presence significantly boosts Cardano’s visibility in the enterprise sector. This heightened awareness attracts more developers, enterprises, and investors, further increasing the ecosystem's credibility and market presence.

Risk Mitigation through Legal and Compliance: Allocating a portion of the budget to legal and compliance ensures that the project operates within a solid legal framework, reducing risks and protecting the interests of all stakeholders involved. This proactive approach safeguards the project's long-term viability and reputation.

In summary, the CES project represents a strategic and efficient use of resources, ensuring that every ADA spent contributes to the long-term growth and sustainability of the Cardano ecosystem