Bridging Digital Divides: Cardano and Proof of Integrity Empowering Latin America's Underprivileged

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Nicola Salvagni

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

Entity (Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Co proposers and Additional applicants

Celina Grau Baena - Head of #comunidadAPRENDO

Eduardo Drabble - Global Community Engagement Lead

[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)

Expanding Proof of Integrity's work, we'll integrate Cardano activities and project showcases into our programs for vulnerable Latin American communities, boosting skills and ecosystem engagement.

[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

All educational material generated will be available to the whole community

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution.

Introduction to Proof of Integrity

Proof of Integrity is a non-profit organization committed to addressing the critical issue of limited blockchain knowledge and accessibility in vulnerable communities across Latin America. Despite the increasing interest in digital currencies and blockchain technologies, these communities often remain disconnected due to educational and resource constraints. A cornerstone of our efforts is the #aPRENDOcripto program, which delivers in-person blockchain education to underprivileged sectors.

#aPRENDOcripto has already made a significant impact:

• 470 Graduates
• 23 Venues across 3 Countries (Argentina, Honduras & Uruguay)
• 32 Editions Conducted
• 48% Women’s Participation

As we move towards 2024, Proof of Integrity plans to significantly expand its reach. We aim to increase the number of graduates from our programs to over 700, spreading our educational efforts across more than 30 venues. This expansion will extend our impact to at least 15 Latin American countries, further solidifying our commitment to bridging the gap in blockchain education and bringing this vital knowledge to more underserved communities across Latin America.

About #comunidadAPRENDO

#comunidadAPRENDO is our post-graduate community, forming a vibrant network specifically for graduates of the #aPRENDOcripto program. This community provides a dynamic platform where these graduates can continue to refine their blockchain skills. It emphasizes creating a sustainable and engaging environment where members actively participate in shared learning experiences, further developing, collaborating, and applying their blockchain knowledge in practical ways. In #comunidadAPRENDO, graduates deepen their understanding of blockchain technology and explore its real-world applications, fostering a culture of ongoing learning and innovation.

A key aspect of #comunidadAPRENDO is the incorporation of gamification elements, which enhance the learning experience by making it more interactive and engaging. Through these gamified elements (like quests), members earn rewards and recognition for their participation and achievements, fostering a motivational and collaborative environment. This approach not only deepens their understanding of blockchain technology but also encourages exploration of its real-world applications, thus cultivating a culture of continuous learning and innovation.

Expanding into the Cardano Ecosystem with #comunidadAPRENDO

We are excited to take a significant step forward by integrating #comunidadAPRENDO into the Cardano ecosystem. This expansion will represent an important evolution of our commitment to bringing advanced blockchain knowledge and opportunities to underprivileged communities in Latin America.

Cardano Quests: Structured Learning and Application

Our integration with the Cardano ecosystem will be enhanced through the implementation of 6 distinct Cardano Quests. These quests are essentially activities assigned to members of #comunidadAPRENDO. Upon successful completion of a quest participants will receive an economic incentive in cryptocurrency, further motivating their engagement and learning.

The Cardano Quests will cover a comprehensive range of activities within the Cardano ecosystem, from fundamental operations like managing wallets and conducting transactions to more advanced tasks such as participating in governance and creating NFTs. This multifaceted approach is intended to provide an all-encompassing learning experience for our members.

Over the course of 6 months, 400 new members of 15 Latin American countries are planned to join the community, each having the opportunity to participate in these quests. We estimate that approximately 120 members will complete all 6 quests, resulting in a total of 720 quests completed.

Upon successful completion of each quest, participants will receive a reward in ADA. This incentive is not just a token of appreciation for their efforts but also a practical introduction to the use of ADA in real-world scenarios. By earning and managing ADA, participants will gain firsthand experience with cryptocurrency transactions, enhancing their understanding and confidence in navigating the digital economy.

Cardano Open Project Showcases

Alongside the quests, we plan to host 6 "Cardano Open Project Showcases." These showcases will be more than mere informational gatherings; they are intended to be dynamic platforms where a variety of innovative projects within the Cardano ecosystem will be invited to present and share their initiatives and achievements.

These events will offer our #comunidadAPRENDO members an unparalleled opportunity to delve deeper into the Cardano world. They will learn directly from the experiences and insights of various project leaders and contributors in the ecosystem. This interaction is designed not only to enhance their understanding of the diverse applications and potential of Cardano technology but also to inspire and possibly ignite their own innovative projects within this vibrant ecosystem.

By participating in these upcoming showcases, members will be exposed to the latest developments, creative ideas, and collaborative opportunities within the Cardano community. This experience is expected to enrich their blockchain education and open new avenues for engagement and innovation.

Empowerment Through Skills and Knowledge

By participating in these quests and showcases, members of #comunidadAPRENDO will gain invaluable knowledge and develop the necessary skills to effectively use Cardano's tools. This initiative is centered on empowering our members to integrate these tools into their personal and community projects, thereby promoting the adoption and understanding of Cardano technology in these underrepresented regions.

Creating a Ripple Effect

Our project seeks to create a significant ripple effect by disseminating skills and knowledge among community members and encouraging broader engagement with the Cardano ecosystem. This aligns with Cardano's vision of an inclusive, equitable, and diverse blockchain community and marks an essential step in our journey toward digital inclusivity and empowerment.

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

The project with #comunidadAPRENDO will have a significant and multifaceted impact on the wider Cardano community. The value brought to the Cardano Community can be summarized as follows:

1. Expansion of the Cardano User Base: By educating and engaging members from underrepresented regions in Latin America, the project will expand the Cardano community, bringing in a diverse set of users. This enhances the global reach and inclusivity of the Cardano ecosystem.
2. Increased Awareness and Adoption: The project serves as a platform for increasing awareness and practical understanding of Cardano's technology. As participants learn and engage with Cardano tools and platforms, they will become ambassadors of the technology in their local communities, fostering wider adoption.
3. Innovation and Contribution: The hands-on experience with Cardano's infrastructure could lead to innovative projects and contributions from the participants, enriching the Cardano ecosystem with fresh perspectives and ideas.

To measure the impact of the project, both quantitative and qualitative metrics will be employed:

• Quantitative Measures: These will include the number of participants successfully completing the quests, the number of transactions executed in the testnet, the number of NFTs created, and the level of participation in governance discussions and technical contributions.

• Qualitative Measures: Feedback and testimonials from participants will be collected to gauge their learning experience, understanding, and application of Cardano technology. Success stories and case studies of how participants are applying their newfound skills within the Cardano ecosystem will also be documented.

The outputs and opportunities resulting from the project will be shared through various channels:

1. Community Engagement: Success stories and learnings will be shared within the #comunidadAPRENDO and extended to broader communities through social media, blogs, and community forums.
2. Collaborations and Partnerships: Findings and insights will be shared with educational and blockchain organizations to foster collaborations and partnerships, enhancing the reach and impact of the project.
3. Documentation and Reporting: Regular updates, reports, and case studies will be published, highlighting the project's progress and impact, and these will be made available to the wider Cardano community through platforms like Cardano forums, and relevant conferences or meetups.

This comprehensive approach to measuring and sharing the impact will not only validate the success of the project but also encourage continued learning, adoption, and innovation within the Cardano community.

[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?

Proof of Integrity's capability to successfully deliver this project is deeply rooted in our extensive experience and proven success in the field of blockchain education and technological inclusion. As a non-profit Latin American initiative, we have a strong foundation in fostering technological skills and knowledge in diverse communities. Our track record is solid, with successful graduation of 470 individuals from our programs, effective conduct of 32 educational sessions across 23 venues, and extending our reach to participants in 3 different countries.

Looking forward, our 2024 projections are ambitious and reflect our commitment to expanding our impact. We aim to graduate over 700 individuals, conduct programs in more than 30 venues, and extend our reach to 15 Latin American countries across 38 editions. This expansion plan underscores our capability and readiness to scale our initiatives, enhancing our established alumni community and creating a robust job placement network for our program graduates.

Our approach to ensuring the feasibility of this project is founded on our established methodologies, refined through substantial experience in blockchain education. We've developed educational programs tailored to the unique needs and contexts of underrepresented communities, ensuring that our projects are impactful and resonate with real-world needs.

Furthermore, our team comprises professionals with expertise in blockchain technology, education, and community engagement, equipping us with the necessary skills to execute this project effectively. Our history of creating engaging, informative, and accessible educational content, combined with our experience in diverse populations, enables us to tailor our approach effectively.

In conclusion, Proof of Integrity's established experience in blockchain education, combined with our ambitious expansion plans for 2024, and our expertise in community engagement, positions us uniquely to successfully deliver this project, contributing significantly to the wider Cardano community.

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

Launch Event for Cardano Integration into #comunidadAPRENDO

Description: This milestone marks the official commencement of the Cardano integration into #comunidadAPRENDO. We will organize a launch event to introduce the Cardano-focused quests and showcase series to the #comunidadAPRENDO members and Cardano Open project teams

Output: The successful hosting of the launch event, which will include detailed presentations on the upcoming Cardano Quests, showcases, and how participants can engage and benefit from these initiatives.

Acceptance Criteria: Recording and dissemination of the event highlights and key information on our digital platforms for broader community engagement.

Successful Completion of 360 Cardano Quests (50% of total quests)

Description: This milestone focuses on the achievement of completing 360 Cardano Quests by the participating #comunidadAPRENDO members. 

Output: Documented evidence of each completed Cardano Quest.

Acceptance Criteria: Completion of 360 distinct quests by #comunidadAPRENDO members.

Complete 720 Cardano Quests and Host 6 Showcase Events

Description: This final milestone involves the successful completion of all 720 Cardano Quests by our students and the hosting of 6 events to showcase projects from the Cardano Open Ecosystem. This comprehensive engagement aims to solidify the participants' understanding and hands-on experience with Cardano's tools and concepts.

Output:

• Completion certificates or records for each of the 720 quests, confirming that students have met the challenges' requirements.
• Organization and execution of 6 showcase events, highlighting various projects and applications within the Cardano ecosystem.

Acceptance Criteria:

• Each student completes their assigned portion of the 720 quests, with documented proof of their achievements.
• Successfully hosting 6 events, with recorded participation and engagement metrics demonstrating active involvement from the community.

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

Tom Grau Baena - Executive Director of Proof of Integrity

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tgraubaena/

Background: Crypto enthusiast since 2014. He has been leading projects for more than 15 years. Industrial engineer (ITBA) and musician (UNA), he is interested in finding concrete applications of blockchain technology that have a social impact.

Role: Provides strategic oversight, aligning the project with Proof of Integrity mission and goals.

Sofía Ramos - Head of Community Outreach

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/-sramos-/

Background: Political Scientist (UBA) and Master in Public Policy (DI TELLA). She has extensive experience in project design, management and evaluation in the public sector and in non-governmental organizations. She is passionate about politics, education and gender issues. Her passion is coordinating strategic projects whose main objective is to build more inclusive and egalitarian societies.

Role: Focuses on connecting with vulnerable populations and establishing relationships with community leaders. Her pivotal role is instrumental in making #aPRENDOcripto a reality, thereby serving as a cornerstone for the members of #comunidadAPRENDO who will participate in this project.

Diego Gil - Head of #aPRENDOcripto

Background: Architect with 8 years of experience in social projects. Specialist in the design and execution of community infrastructure projects. Faithful believer that a fair and inclusive society is possible.

Role: As the Head of #aPRENDOcripto, Diego takes charge of the program's operational aspects. His role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth onboarding of members into #comunidadAPRENDO, making him an essential link between the two initiatives.

Celina Grau Baena - Head of #comunidadAPRENDO

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/celina-grau-baena-76ba892a/

Background: Industrial Engineer (UCA) and Master in Public Policy (DI TELLA). She is dedicated to working on projects that seek to guarantee rights and equal opportunities. She focused the last years of her career in the public sector.

Role: Leads the post-graduate community, focusing on engaging graduates in the Cardano project. Responsible for driving participation and fostering a collaborative environment.

Eduardo Drabble - Global Community Engagement Lead

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eduardo-javier-drabble-70504991/

Background: Lawyer and Theologian with a deep involvement in community development and social economics. His extensive experience in coordinating community strengthening initiatives is complemented by his knowledge in Digital Technologies, including Web3, Blockchain, and Artificial Intelligence.

Role: Responsible for maintaining contact with leaders of regional social organizations that are directly connected with members of the #comunidadAPRENDO. He ensures that these leaders provide personalized support and motivation to community members, encouraging active participation in various activities. His role is crucial in fostering a strong, supportive network that enhances the effectiveness and reach of the Cardano project.

Nicola Salvagni - #comunidadAPRENDO Cardano Liaison

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-salvagni-6a206a6a/

Background: Specializes in empowering businesses and communities through technology, focusing on brand narratives at Namarie. He plays a key role in the overall coordination of the #comunidadAPRENDO initiative at Proof of Integrity, facilitating its connection with the Cardano community.

Role: Responsible for overseeing the integration of #comunidadAPRENDO into the Cardano ecosystem, which includes managing the upcoming Cardano Quests and coordinating the Cardano Open Project Showcases. This role is critical in ensuring these initiatives are in line with the strategic objectives of #comunidadAPRENDO and the broader Cardano community, promoting active engagement and effective collaboration.

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

Budget Overview

Our project’s budget is carefully planned to ensure optimal allocation and utilization of resources. We are requesting a total of 75,000 ADA, which is divided into two main categories: Operational Costs and Quest Rewards.

Operational Costs: 46,582 ADA

The operational costs, totaling 46,582 ADA, are thoughtfully allocated for supporting the team who will be instrumental in driving this project forward. It is important to emphasize that these funds are allocated not just to cover the efforts of the #comunidadAPRENDO team, but also to support the #aPRENDOcripto team, whose role in expanding our program into 15 Latin American countries is directly linked to the success of this initiative. The expansion includes adding 12 new countries during the project's timeline, significantly enlarging the scope and impact of our efforts. The graduates of the #aPRENDOcripto program become members of #comunidadAPRENDO, and they are the ones who will be actively engaged in the activities of this project within the Cardano ecosystem.

These funds will not cover the full salaries of all team members but are intended to compensate for the portion of time and effort that both #aPRENDOcripto and #comunidadAPRENDO teams dedicate specifically to this Cardano-focused project. This strategic allocation acknowledges the additional responsibilities and commitments our teams will shoulder, ensuring that our operational investment is proportionally aligned with the strategic goals of our Cardano-focused activities.

By allocating these funds for operational costs, we ensure the continuation of Proof of Integrity's high standard of program delivery. This financial support is key in leveraging the expertise and commitment of our team, enabling us to align our operational investment proportionally and effectively with the strategic goals of our Cardano-focused activities.

Quest Rewards: 28,418 ADA

The Quest Rewards, amounting to 28,418 ADA, form an essential part of our project, aimed at incentivizing and rewarding participants for the successful completion of Cardano Quests. This reward fund will be distributed as economic incentives in cryptocurrency to participants upon the achievement of each quest.

Disbursement Schedule Based on Milestones

To ensure effective progress tracking and financial management, the disbursement of the requested 75,000 ADA will be linked to the achievement of specific milestones in our project timeline. This approach ensures that funds are allocated in line with tangible progress and achievements. The disbursement will be structured as follows:

Milestone 1: Launch Event for Cardano Integration into #comunidadAPRENDO

Upon the successful organization and completion of this launch event, marking the official integration of the Cardano ecosystem into our program, we will receive 25% of the total funding (18,750 ADA). This initial disbursement is earmarked to support the early stages of our project, focusing primarily on the operational setup and allocating funds for the Quest Rewards, which are essential for achieving the next milestone.

Milestone 2: Successful Completion of 360 Cardano Quests (50% of total quests)

After achieving this significant milestone, which demonstrates effective participant engagement and progress within the Cardano ecosystem, an additional 50% of the funding (37,500 ADA) will be released. This will support the ongoing operational costs and continue to fund the Quest Rewards for participants.

Final Milestone: Complete 720 Cardano Quests and Host 6 Showcase Events

Upon successful completion of all 720 Cardano Quests and the hosting of 6 showcase events, the final 25% of the funding (18,750 ADA) will be disbursed. This final installment will ensure that the project is sustainably concluded, covering the remaining operational costs and finalizing any outstanding Quest Rewards.

This milestone-based disbursement schedule is designed to align the release of funds with the progress and success of our project, ensuring a responsible and transparent use of resources. It also provides clear goals for our team to work towards, maintaining a focus on achieving significant impacts in blockchain education and community engagement within Latin America.

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

The budget for our project is meticulously structured to ensure optimal value for money for the Cardano ecosystem, effectively addressing the need for blockchain education in underprivileged Latin American communities.

• Alignment with Local Economic Context: Our budget is calibrated in accordance with the economic realities of Latin America. This includes aligning costs with local average wages and operational expenses, ensuring that each ADA spent is used efficiently and appropriately. This cost-effective approach allows us to maximize the impact and reach of our educational initiatives.
• Resource Optimization: We utilize the existing infrastructure of our established #aPRENDOcripto program, directing additional resources specifically towards expanding and enhancing the educational experience. This strategic use of funds ensures high-quality program delivery without unnecessary financial outlay.
• Direct Contribution to Ecosystem Growth: Investing in this project directly aids in the growth and diversification of the Cardano community. By equipping new users in underrepresented areas with blockchain skills and knowledge, we are expanding the Cardano ecosystem, adding value through increased user adoption and community engagement.
• Sustainable Long-term Value: The project is designed not just for immediate educational outcomes but for creating sustainable, long-term value within the Cardano ecosystem. As participants develop their skills and engage with the Cardano community, they contribute to ongoing innovation and vibrancy, representing a lasting return on investment.

In conclusion, the proposed budget for this project is justified by the need to create a sustainable, impactful educational program that aligns with local economic conditions and maximizes the use of resources. The investment in this initiative represents significant value for the Cardano ecosystem, facilitating its expansion and fostering a knowledgeable and active community.

[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