SafeRoute: Securing Supply Routes with Cardano Digital Identity

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

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

[GENERAL] Co proposers and Additional applicants

Gal Messinger

Nick Mason

Viktor Radchenko

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

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language.

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

Use Cardano-based Digital ID to verify the identity of transportation staff along the route of the delivered product

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

[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?

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

As part of the project, we will analyse several potential business models around the proposed solution. the open-source status of the project output will depend on the analysis. While the main criteria for the decision will be the impact on the wider Cardano ecosystem, it is possible that some components of the proposed solution will remain proprietary.

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution.

The challenge of identity fraud within transportation presents critical security and trust issues across supply chains, undermining the integrity and authenticity of delivered products. Here are some key examples of security issues related to truck transportation: 

• Cargo Theft: Theft of cargo during transit is a pervasive problem. 
• False Documentation and Identity Fraud: Criminals may use false documentation to pose as legitimate drivers or transportation personnel. This can lead to unauthorized access to trucks, cargo theft, or the introduction of illicit goods into the supply chain.
• Smuggling and Contraband: Trucks can be used to transport illegal goods, including drugs, counterfeit products, or other contraband. Identifying and preventing smuggling is a critical security concern.
• Insider Threats: Internal personnel, including drivers, warehouse staff, or maintenance crews, can pose security risks. Proper background checks, training, and monitoring are essential to mitigate insider threats. 
• Lack of Real-time Tracking and Visibility: Limited visibility into the real-time location and status of trucks can impede the ability to respond quickly to security incidents. Implementing GPS tracking and monitoring systems is crucial for enhanced visibility.

Our solution revolves around leveraging Cardano's sophisticated Digital Identity infrastructure to tackle this problem head-on. By utilizing Digital ID verification mechanisms, our project aims to conceptualize and prototype a robust system to authenticate and validate the identities of transportation staff operating within the supply chain routes.

Our approach hinges on the seamless integration of Digital ID protocols throughout the journey of delivered goods. This will involve creating a proof-of-concept (PoC) model that enables real-time identity verification for transportation staff at various checkpoints along the supply chain. Implementing this system will fortify the integrity of product delivery, minimize identity-related risks, and instill trust in the entire supply chain network.

Engaging a diverse spectrum of stakeholders is crucial for the success of this endeavor. We plan to collaborate closely with manufacturers, transportation companies, logistics providers, as well as with regulatory and standardization bodies invested in ensuring secure and transparent product deliveries. This collaborative effort will enable us to tailor the Digital Identity solution to meet the specific needs of supply chain participants while demonstrating its effectiveness in addressing identity fraud concerns.

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

Supply chain efficiency is a big topic for blockchain technology and also for Cardano. For example CF was working in this area since 2021 - to give few examples:

-Cardano reveals its first supply chain solution in association with Scantrust

- Cardano Foundation Partners with Georgian National Wine Agency

The reason it is important as supply chain is related to enterprise solutions and can bring real life use cases to Cardano and adoption. In this proposal we solve a specific but essential problem of the supply chains around ground transportation. 

The success of our project will significantly contribute to the broader Cardano community by showcasing the practical application and versatility of Cardano's Digital Identity infrastructure beyond traditional use cases. The establishment of a robust identity verification system within supply chains not only fortifies the integrity of product delivery but also exemplifies Cardano's adaptability in addressing real-world challenges across diverse industry sectors.

[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 brings together a dynamic blend of expertise to ensure the project is executed with the utmost trust, accountability, and feasibility.

Team Expertise:

Project Manager (Shay): With robust background in computer science, finance, and blockchain technologies empowers the team with strategic leadership, project oversight, and comprehensive understanding of the intersection between technology and finance, ensuring effective project management and resource coordination.

Digital Identity Specialist (Nick): Expert in designing and implementing Distributed Digital ID solutions, prioritizing data privacy and regulatory compliance within blockchain technology. Nick's proficiency in identity verification mechanisms significantly contributes to assessing the feasibility of implementing Digital Identity within supply chains.

Solution Architect (Victor): Specializes in technical architecture within blockchain and distributed systems. With extensive experience in solution design and integration, Victor plays a pivotal role in aligning the solution with compliance standards and validating the technical feasibility of integrating Digital Identity within supply chain operations.

Validation of Feasibility:

Our approach emphasizes a meticulous validation process. Leveraging the Digital Identity Specialist's expertise, we will conduct in-depth market research, feasibility studies, and engagement with industry stakeholders. Their proficiency ensures a comprehensive assessment of the practicality and compliance of implementing Digital Identity within supply chains. Additionally, Gal's insights will contribute to validating the security aspects, fortifying the system against potential vulnerabilities and risks.

Trust in Fund Management:

As the project lead and manager, ensuring trust in fund management is paramount. We commit to implementing stringent financial controls, transparent documentation, and adherence to Catalyst funding guidelines. Regular financial reporting and clear budget allocation will uphold accountability, fostering transparency and trust within the Cardano community.

Our collaborative effort, guided by diverse expertise, ensures a comprehensive and trustworthy approach to project delivery, establishing a robust identity verification system within supply chains while adhering to industry standards and regulatory compliance.

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

Research and Analysis

Conduct comprehensive market research and industry analysis related to identity verification systems within supply chains.

2-3 weeks, 15k ADA

Deliverables:

·      Detailed report outlining the existing identity verification mechanisms within supply chains.

·      Identification of key stakeholders involved in the supply chain and their specific requirements concerning identity verification.

Acceptance Criteria: Approval of the comprehensive research report by the project team.

Feasibility Study and Framework Design

Validate the feasibility of implementing Digital Identity solutions within supply chain routes and create an architectural framework for the solution.

3-4 weeks, 25k ADA

Deliverables:

·      Feasibility assessment report highlighting the technical viability of integrating Digital Identity within supply chain operations.

·      Initial architectural framework outlining the design and structure of the Digital Identity solution tailored for supply chain usage.

Acceptance Criteria:

·      Approval of the feasibility report affirming the technical feasibility.

·      Endorsement of the architectural framework by the project team and stakeholders.

Prototyping and Development Initiation

Initiate the development of a prototype based on the approved framework and begin building core functionalities for identity verification within the supply chain.

4-6 weeks, 25k ADA

Deliverables:

·      Prototyped system allowing real-time identity verification at specified supply chain checkpoints.

·      Commencement of development for essential identity verification features as outlined in the architectural framework.

Acceptance Criteria:

·      Successful demonstration of the prototype showcasing the initial identity verification process.

Security & Data Privacy Compliance and Final Reporting

Conduct rigorous security evaluations, ensure data privacy compliance, and finalize project documentation with a focus on data privacy aspects.

3-4 weeks, 25k ADA

Deliverables:

·      Compliance report ensuring adherence to industry standards and regulations, particularly emphasizing data privacy compliance within the developed solution.

·      Security evaluation report identifying potential vulnerabilities and outlining mitigation strategies.

·      Final project report encompassing research, development, testing outcomes, technical documentation, and comprehensive data privacy guidelines for potential future implementations.

Acceptance Criteria:

·      Approval of compliance and security reports by security experts, regulatory advisors, and data privacy specialists, highlighting adherence to the required standards.

·      Endorsement of the final project report and data privacy documentation by the project team, ensuring it meets the specified criteria.

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

Shay Gammer - Project Lead

Profile: Seasoned professional with a diverse background in computer science and finance, adept at leveraging blockchain technologies to drive innovation. Demonstrated expertise in overseeing multifaceted projects and fostering cross-disciplinary collaborations.

Responsibilities: Steering the project management process, coordinating diverse team efforts, ensuring strategic alignment with project goals, and engaging stakeholders to facilitate project progression.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shay-gammer-8046966/

Nick Mason - Digital Identity Expert

Profile: Nick Mason, CEO for ProofSpace, is a seasoned social entrepreneur and venture analyst with a strong background in digital identity frameworks and data privacy aspects within blockchain technology. He has a proven track record in social venture funding and co-founded ProofSpace (formerly ZAKA) in 2019.

Responsibilities: Providing expert guidance on Cardano's Digital Identity implementation strategies, validating and refining identity verification systems within supply chains leveraging Cardano's ecosystem, and ensuring compliance with stringent data privacy regulations.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-mason-762316b/

Viktor Radchenko - Solution Architect and Technology Specialist

Profile: Viktor Radchenko, CTO, and mobile dev for ProofSpace, brings over 20 years of extensive experience in R&D, project and product management, and solution architecture. With a strong background in science consulting, blockchain, mobile, web, game, and embedded development, Viktor has made significant contributions, evident through six publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Responsibilities: Spearheading solution architecture, providing strategic guidance in technological innovation, ensuring seamless integration of systems, and leveraging expertise in blockchain, mobile, and web development to fortify the proposed solution. Viktor's role involves meticulous design and implementation, aligning the solution with compliance standards and identifying potential vulnerabilities.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/victorradchenko/

Gal Messinger - Security and Compliance Advisor

Profile: Accomplished professional with a distinguished career in corporate security and loss prevention. Gal is a former board member of the Transported Asset Protection Association (TAPA) and holds expertise in security strategies and compliance frameworks.

Responsibilities: Offering strategic counsel on security measures, conducting comprehensive security evaluations, ensuring alignment with compliance standards, and highlighting potential vulnerabilities within the proposed solution.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gal-messinger-9434a932/

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

Milestone 1: Research & Planning

• Project Management: 3,000 ADA
• Planning, Oversight and Coordination ~25 hours
• Technical Research: 6,000 ADA
• Workshops with key stakeholders ~20 hours
• Research Analysis ~20 hours
• Consultation Fees: 6,000 ADA
• Expert Consultation ~25 hours

Total: 15,000 ADA

Milestone 2: Feasibility Study & Framework Design

• Technical Feasibility Report: 12,000 ADA
• Workshops ~ 20 hours
• Feasibility Assessment ~30 hours
• Report Compilation ~20 hours
• Architectural Framework: 13,000 ADA
• Framework Design ~50 hours

Total: 25,000 ADA

Milestone 3: Prototyping & Demonstration

• Development Costs: 20,000 ADA
• Prototype Development ~80 hours
• PoC Demonstration ~40 hours

Total: 20,000 ADA

Final Milestone: Security & Data Privacy Compliance

• Security Audit & Compliance: 20,000 ADA
• Security Evaluation and Compliance ~50 hours
• Reporting & Documentation: 7,000 ADA
• Final Project Documentation ~30hours
• Community Engagement: 8,000 ADA
• Engaging Stakeholders ~30 hours

Total: 35,000 ADA

Grand Total: 95,000ADA

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

The budget allocation for SafeRoute embodies a strategic value proposition for Cardano by:

1. Innovative Supply Chain Security: Investing in an innovative Digital Identity solution fortifies supply chain integrity, showcasing Cardano's adaptability in solving real-world challenges.
2. Real-World Impact: Prototyping the solution demonstrates Cardano's technology in securing global supply chains, moving beyond theory to practical application.
3. Stakeholder Collaboration: Funds allocated for stakeholder engagement foster a community-centered approach, aligning solutions with diverse supply chain needs.

This budget underscores Cardano's commitment to innovation, practical solutions, and collaborative ecosystem development.

[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.