Blockchain-Servitization Hub: Empowering African Startups

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Tinhinane TAZAIRT

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

Individual

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

12

[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)

Launching a bilingual (English/French) incubator program to foster African startups developing service-centric solutions on Cardano blockchain, offering guidance, resources, and mentorship

[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

While the majority of our incubator's resources will be openly accessible, some proprietary components won't be open source. These include:

1. Specialized Training Material: We plan to develop unique, high-quality educational content for our incubator program. Some of these resources, particularly those tailored towards our specific mentoring and teaching approach, will be exclusive to the incubator participants.
2. Proprietary Software Tools: If the project development process requires the creation of unique software tools or applications, these may not be released as open-source initially, primarily due to intellectual property considerations and the need to sustain the incubator's operations.

Our goal is to strike a balance between contributing to the open-source community and maintaining the unique value proposition of our incubator program. We believe this approach is crucial to the program's sustainability and its capacity to continue serving African startups in the long term.

[METADATA] SDG rating

SDG 4: Quality Education - Through the provision of comprehensive training, mentorship, and resources, the incubator enhances the quality of education and promotes lifelong learning opportunities for African startups in the field of blockchain and servitization.

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth - The incubator's focus on empowering startups promotes job creation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth within the African region.

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure - By supporting African startups in leveraging the Cardano blockchain and embracing service-centric solutions, the incubator contributes to fostering innovation, building resilient infrastructure, and promoting sustainable industrialization.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities - By providing targeted support to African startups, the incubator helps reduce inequalities by ensuring that underrepresented groups and regions have access to opportunities in emerging technologies and innovation.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals - The establishment of the incubator promotes partnerships between academia, industry experts, and startups, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing for the achievement of sustainable development goals.

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution.

Our proposed solution is to establish a Blockchain-Servitization incubator focused on empowering African startups. Our project will bridge the gap between traditional industries and the emerging blockchain technology through the concept of servitization.

The problem we are solving lies in the struggle many African startups face when they try to integrate themselves into the digital and blockchain world. The complexity of transitioning from a traditional manufacturing model to a service-oriented model, particularly within the blockchain domain, is overwhelming for many. It requires a unique blend of digital, strategic, and business process knowledge that these startups often lack.

Our approach to solving this problem is rooted in our unique blend of expertise. We will draw upon our knowledge in digital Servitization, Marketing, statistics and data analysis, Sales enablement, and Blockchain to provide comprehensive and tailored support to these startups. This project intends to go beyond simple education or training. It will be an incubator program, providing hands-on, real-world experience and mentorship in developing service-centric solutions on the Cardano blockchain.

Combining Servitization and Blockchain:

Servitization and blockchain are transformative paradigms that can revolutionize traditional business models. Servitization is the shift from selling standalone products to providing comprehensive solutions that generate ongoing value. By offering integrated solutions that involve both physical products and associated services, businesses can foster customer loyalty, differentiate themselves from competitors, and facilitate sustainable growth.

Blockchain technology, known for its decentralization, security, and transparency, provides an effective tool for executing and recording transactions in a trustable manner. In a servitized business model, blockchain can track and authenticate every interaction along a product's lifecycle. This combination not only enhances transparency but also enables novel business models, such as decentralized autonomous services, pay-per-use services, or dynamic pricing based on real-time data.

Targeting African Startups:

We aim to support African startups due to the unique blend of opportunities and challenges they present. Africa is witnessing a digital revolution, and its startups are at the forefront of this transformation, tackling local challenges with innovative solutions. Yet, these startups often lack access to resources and mentorship to fully leverage emerging technologies like blockchain.

Our Blockchain-Servitization Startup Incubator aims to bridge this gap. By targeting African startups, we can drive socio-economic development on the continent, promote financial inclusion, and contribute to the digital transformation of Africa.

Components of the Incubator Program

1. Selection Process: We would initiate a rigorous selection process to identify startups with the highest potential to implement service-centric solutions using the Cardano blockchain.
2. Education and Training: Selected startups will receive extensive education and training on servitization, blockchain technology, and specifically the use of Cardano. This training will involve workshops, seminars, and continuous learning modules to keep up with the rapidly evolving space.
3. Mentorship and Guidance: Startups will be paired with mentors with deep expertise in digital servitization, blockchain, sales enablement, and business process optimization. These mentors will provide guidance on strategic decisions, technical challenges, and business model innovation.
4. Technical Support: Startups will receive technical support to develop their solutions on the Cardano blockchain. This includes providing resources and tools to overcome technical challenges and fostering collaboration between different teams for problem-solving.
5. Business Model Innovation: We will guide startups in rethinking their business models to incorporate servitization and blockchain effectively. This includes designing service packages, establishing pricing models, and creating value propositions around their service offerings.
6. Community and Network: The incubator will also provide startups with a community of like-minded entrepreneurs, fostering collaboration, idea exchange, and mutual support. We will leverage our network to provide startups with opportunities for partnerships, collaborations, and funding.

Measuring Impact

Our incubator's impact will be measured by the number of startups it helps, the quality of solutions these startups launch on the Cardano blockchain, the degree of Cardano adoption this drives, and the feedback from the startups. We aim to create a measurable, significant impact on the Cardano ecosystem and the African startup landscape.

Open Source Commitment

Finally, our commitment to making project outcomes open-source ensures that our impact goes beyond the startups in the incubator. By sharing resources, tools, and learnings, we aim to foster a collaborative, innovative ecosystem within Cardano and help more startups navigate the servitization and blockchain landscape.

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

The challenge is to improve the ease with which projects are developed on Cardano and ensure the effective operation of stake pool nodes. By establishing our Blockchain-Servitization Startup Incubator, we will directly address this challenge in the following ways:

• Tools and Resources: We will provide startups with the essential tools, libraries, SDKs, and resources required to develop applications on the Cardano blockchain. These resources will include technical guides, development templates, and best practice documents, among others. By making these tools readily available, we reduce the barrier to entry and increase the number of high-quality projects developed on Cardano.

• Education and Training: Through our extensive education and training programs, we will improve the understanding of Cardano's ecosystem among developers and entrepreneurs. Our training will cover all aspects of Cardano development, from running nodes for SPOs, Plutus & IELE development to native asset development.

• Mentorship: Our mentorship program will provide the guidance startups need to navigate the complexities of blockchain development and servitization. By pairing them with experienced mentors, we ensure they have the right support to develop innovative solutions on Cardano.

[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's capability to deliver this project with high levels of trust and accountability stems from our diverse expertise in digital servitization, blockchain technology, data analysis, marketing and strategy, sales engineering, and project management. This combination of skills uniquely positions us to drive the development of a startup incubator focused on fostering blockchain adoption within the African startup ecosystem.

Here's why we believe we're best suited to deliver this project:

1. Expertise and Experience: Our team's skills cover a broad spectrum: Digital-Servitization, marketing and strategy, B2B consulting, data analysis methods, optimizing sales solutions, project management and Software Quality. Our diverse background offers us a comprehensive understanding of the requirements to set up and run a successful incubator for startups on the Cardano blockchain.
2. Proven Track Record: Our team members have a history of delivering successful projects within their respective fields. Their combined experience ensures an understanding of project delivery within budget, on time, and to high standards.
3. Data Analysis and Market Research: With our team's expertise in statistics, data analysis methods, and marketing, we have the capabilities to gather insights, analyze market trends, and make data-driven decisions. This allows us to tailor our incubator program and resources to meet the specific needs of startups and ensure their success in the Cardano ecosystem.
4. Strong Network: Our team's experience across different sectors and industries gives us access to a vast network that can be instrumental in attracting startups to our incubator and creating beneficial partnerships that contribute to our project and the broader Cardano ecosystem.

To ensure transparency and trust in our management of funds, we will incorporate the following steps:

1. Transparent Budgeting: We will develop a clear, detailed budget that outlines all anticipated costs and the planned use of funds. This budget will be regularly updated and shared with the community.
2. Regular Reporting: Our team will provide regular updates on project progress, financial status, and milestones achieved. Any challenges encountered will be openly communicated and addressed.
3. External Auditing: To enhance trust, we will engage an external auditor to periodically review our financial management, ensuring funds are used appropriately and as planned.
4. Escrow Services: If necessary, we are open to using escrow services to hold funds and release them as project milestones are accomplished. This approach offers an additional layer of security and accountability.
5. Community Engagement: Regular interaction with the Cardano community will be a part of our project. We welcome their feedback, ideas, and suggestions and will use this input to enhance accountability and ensure we are responsive to the needs of the ecosystem.

Our team's diverse expertise, demonstrated dedication to transparency and accountability, and deep understanding of the Cardano ecosystem make us uniquely suited to deliver this project and manage project funds effectively.

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

Milestone 1: Project Initiation and Planning (Month 1 - Month 2)

• Tasks: Finalizing project plan, setting up the core team, establishing partnerships, securing office space, and setting up necessary IT infrastructure.
• Success Criteria: Completion of project plan, assembled team, established partnerships, and set up workspace and IT infrastructure.

Milestone 2: Incubator Design and Development (Month 2 - Month 4)

• Tasks: Designing the incubator program, developing curriculum and resources, setting up the website, creating a startup application process, and marketing the program.
• Success Criteria: Functional website, complete program curriculum, effective marketing strategy, and a transparent, efficient application process.

Milestone 3: Startup Selection and Onboarding (Month 4 - Month 6)

• Tasks: Reviewing startup applications, conducting interviews, selecting startups, and onboarding the chosen startups into the program.
• Success Criteria: At least 5 startups successfully onboarded into the incubator program.

Milestone 4: Incubator Execution (Month 6 - Month 11)

• Tasks: Conducting the incubator program, providing mentorship, resources, and support to startups, tracking their progress, and managing any arising issues.
• Success Criteria: Startups show significant progress in their projects, satisfactory feedback from participants, and successful resolution of any issues.

Milestone 5: Review and Future Planning (Month 11 - Month 12)

• Tasks: Reviewing the incubator's first run, gathering feedback, assessing the impact, and planning for the next batch of startups.
• Success Criteria: Comprehensive review document detailing successes, challenges, lessons learned, and a robust plan for the future.

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

Our project team consists of highly skilled professionals with expertise in various domains relevant to the proposal. Each team member brings valuable experience and knowledge to ensure the successful execution of the project. Here are the team members and their roles:

Dr. Tihnhinane TAZAIRT - Project Lead and Digital-Servitization Expert

• Tinhinane a Ph.D. in Digital-Servitization and Statistics and Applied Economics Enginner, brings extensive knowledge in marketing, strategy, and B2B consulting. As the project lead, she will oversee the overall project management, strategic direction, and coordination of activities. Tinhinane will also contribute her expertise in servitization to guide the development of the incubator program.
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tinhinane-tazairt/

Houssem BENMAHMOUD - Sales Enablement and Business Optimization Specialist

• Houssem is a certified Salesforce Consultant with several years of experience as a Sales Engineer within different international companies and a mechnical engineering background. He specializes in optimizing CRM solutions and possesses a unique blend of sales and engineering skills. In the project, Houssem will be responsible for designing and implementing sales enablement strategies, ensuring the startups have the necessary support to succeed.
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/houssem-benmahmoud/

Recruitment Plan:

At this stage, we have not recruited additional team members. However, we recognize the importance of expanding the team's capabilities as the project progresses. We plan to recruit individuals with expertise in Blockchain development, software development and IT infrastructure.

These individuals will bring valuable technical skills and experience to our team, complementing our existing knowledge base.

While we are open to considering candidates with various backgrounds and expertise, we will prioritize individuals with a strong understanding of emerging technologies and a willingness to learn and adapt to blockchain development principles. This will ensure that we have a well-rounded team capable of providing effective support to the startups in their journey on the Cardano blockchain.

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

Human Resources: 50,000 ADA

• Core team salaries (including project management, technical, and administrative staff)
• Consultant fees (including technical consultants, legal advice, accounting, etc.)

Operational Expenses: 30,000 ADA

• Office Lease & Utilities
• IT Infrastructure (hardware, software licenses, cloud services)
• Office Supplies

Program Development & Execution: 20,000 ADA

• Curriculum development
• Mentorship programs
• Support services

Marketing and Community Engagement: 20,000 ADA

• Website development & maintenance
• Marketing and promotional activities
• Community events and meetups

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

The cost of the project represents value for money for the Cardano ecosystem for several reasons. Firstly, the budget allocation reflects a balanced distribution of resources across different aspects of the project, ensuring comprehensive support for African startups aiming to develop service-centric solutions on the Cardano blockchain. The breakdown takes into account the need for skilled human resources, operational expenses, program development, marketing, community engagement, and contingencies.

Regarding human resources, the allocation of 50,000 ADA for salaries and consultant fees is based on industry standards and the expertise required for successful project execution. It ensures that qualified professionals are onboarded to manage and guide the incubator program effectively. The budget considers competitive remuneration to attract and retain top talent with the necessary knowledge and experience in digital servitization, blockchain, marketing, and strategy.

Operational expenses of 30,000 ADA cover essential aspects such as office lease and utilities, IT infrastructure, and office supplies. These costs are justified by market rates and are necessary to establish a functional and efficient workspace where the core team can operate, collaborate, and support the startups effectively.

The program development and execution budget of 20,000 ADA is allocated for crucial activities like curriculum development, mentorship programs, and support services. These costs reflect the investment needed to provide comprehensive training, guidance, and resources to the startups, ensuring they have the best chances of success.

Marketing and community engagement, with a budget of 20,000 ADA, are critical for promoting the incubator program, attracting startups, and fostering a vibrant Cardano community. These activities involve website development and maintenance, marketing campaigns, and organizing community events and meetups. The allocated budget allows for effective outreach, awareness building, and collaboration opportunities, contributing to the growth and adoption of Cardano.

[IMPORTANT NOTE] The Applicant agrees to Fund 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