Cardano Ghana Community Expansion

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Mohammed Mustapha Yakubu

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

Entity (Not Incorporated)

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

2

[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)

The solution is to expand the Cardano Ghana Community; fostering adoption and awareness. We will collaborate with youth groups and key policy stakeholders to drive Cardano adoption and 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

As a non-technical idea, it doesn't involve any coding or software deployment.

[METADATA] SDG rating

• SDG 4 (Quality Education): The Cardano Ghana Community Expansion proposal aims to promote quality education by facilitating educational initiatives focused on blockchain technology and cryptocurrency adoption. By providing access to knowledge and skills in these fields, the project empowers individuals with the tools needed for financial inclusion and innovation, ultimately contributing to the development of a more educated and economically empowered society.

• SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): Through regional expansion and collaboration, the proposal seeks to create opportunities for economic development and sustainable growth within the Ghanaian community. By fostering a thriving ecosystem around Cardano and blockchain technology, the project promotes entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic empowerment, thereby supporting the goals of decent work and economic growth.

• SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): The proposal emphasizes the importance of partnerships by actively engaging with youth groups, policy stakeholders, and other entities. These partnerships aim to leverage collective expertise and resources to drive sustainable development and technological innovation in Ghana. By fostering collaboration and cooperation, the project contributes to the overarching goal of building effective partnerships for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

The proposed solution aims to address the limited Cardano presence in Ghana by strategically engaging with key stakeholders, specifically major youth groups and youth policy stakeholders, to foster awareness, adoption, and support for Cardano and its ecosystem, including Catalyst.

Firstly, the problem of limited Cardano presence in Ghana is perceived as a barrier to the robust growth of the Cardano community and the broader adoption of blockchain technology in the country. Despite the steady progress made since 2021, there is a pressing need to expand the reach and impact of Cardano within Ghana. This is crucial for driving financial inclusion, fostering economic empowerment, and promoting technological innovation among Ghanaians, particularly the youth demographic.

The approach to solving this problem involves engaging with two major youth groups and two youth policy stakeholders in Ghana. These groups and stakeholders have significant influence and reach within their respective communities, making them ideal partners for promoting Cardano and Catalyst. By collaborating with them, the project aims to leverage their platforms and networks to introduce Cardano and Catalyst to their members and constituents, thereby increasing awareness and adoption of the platform.

One of the key reasons for approaching the problem in this way is the recognition of the importance of grassroots engagement and community outreach in driving adoption and awareness of new technologies. By partnering with established youth groups and policy stakeholders, the project can tap into existing networks and channels to disseminate information about Cardano and its potential benefits. Additionally, by engaging with policymakers and government agencies, the project seeks to establish a supportive regulatory environment for Cardano operations and activities in Ghana.

The project will engage with youth groups through various means, including participation in their events and programs, organizing workshops and training sessions, and leveraging social media and other digital platforms to disseminate information about Cardano and Catalyst. By actively engaging with youth groups, the project aims to build a strong community of Cardano enthusiasts and advocates who can drive adoption and usage of the platform among their peers and networks.

Similarly, the project will engage with youth policy stakeholders, such as the National Youth Authority (NYA) and Metropolitan Assembly leadership, through dialogue sessions and advocacy efforts. By highlighting the mission, opportunities, and impact of Cardano blockchain technology, the project aims to influence policymakers to accommodate Cardano within existing regulatory frameworks and support its expansion and activities in Ghana. This includes advocating for the recognition of Cardano as a viable platform for driving economic development, promoting financial inclusion, and fostering innovation within the country.

In terms of demonstrating impact, the project will track key metrics such as the number of youth groups and policy stakeholders engaged, the level of awareness and understanding of Cardano and Catalyst among their members and constituents, and the number of initiatives and activities supported or facilitated by these partners. Additionally, the project will monitor indicators such as the growth of the Cardano community in Ghana, the number of transactions and activities on the Cardano blockchain originating from Ghana, and the level of support and engagement from government agencies and policymakers.

Therefore, the proposed solution is unique in its emphasis on grassroots engagement, community outreach, and strategic partnerships with key stakeholders to drive adoption and support for Cardano and its ecosystem in Ghana. By engaging with youth groups and policy stakeholders, the project seeks to create a supportive environment for Cardano operations and activities in the country, ultimately contributing to the growth and success of the Cardano ecosystem globally..

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

The success of the Cardano Ghana Community Expansion project will bring significant value to the wider Cardano community by fostering greater adoption, awareness, and support for the platform in Ghana. This will not only contribute to the growth and development of the Cardano ecosystem in Africa but also showcase Cardano as a leading blockchain platform for driving social and economic impact globally.

One of the primary ways in which the project will measure impact is through quantitative metrics such as the number of new users onboarded to Cardano and Catalyst, the volume of transactions originating from Ghana, and the growth of the Cardano community in the country. Additionally, qualitative measures such as surveys, interviews, and feedback from stakeholders will be used to assess the level of awareness, understanding, and support for Cardano within the Ghanaian community.

The positive impact of the project on the wider Cardano community can be measured in several key areas:

1. Increased Adoption and Engagement: The project aims to onboard a significant number of new users to Cardano and Catalyst, thereby expanding the user base and increasing transaction volume on the platfor
2. Enhanced Awareness and Education: Through targeted outreach and educational initiatives, the project will raise awareness and understanding of Cardano and its ecosystem among the Ghanaian populatio
3. Community Building and Empowerment: By fostering a vibrant and inclusive Cardano community in Ghana, the project will empower individuals to actively participate in the governance and development of the platfor
4. Strategic Partnerships and Advocacy: Through dialogue and collaboration with youth groups, policy stakeholders, and government agencies, the project will establish strategic partnerships and advocacy networks to support the growth and expansion of Cardano in Ghan

To measure these impacts, the project will employ a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, including:

• Tracking the number of new users onboarded to Cardano and Catalyst from Ghana.
• Monitoring the volume and value of transactions originating from Ghana on the Cardano blockchain.
• Conducting surveys and interviews to assess awareness, understanding, and sentiment towards Cardano within the Ghanaian community.
• Collecting feedback from stakeholders on the effectiveness of outreach and educational initiatives.
• Documenting the outcomes of dialogue sessions and advocacy efforts with policy stakeholders and government agencies.

The outputs and opportunities resulting from the project will be shared with the wider Cardano community through various channels, including:

• Regular progress reports and updates posted on community forums, social media channels, and the Cardano website.
• Participation in Cardano community events, conferences, and meetups to share insights and lessons learned from the project.
• Collaboration with other Cardano community projects and initiatives to leverage synergies and amplify impact.
• Engaging with media outlets and influencers to raise awareness and generate positive publicity for Cardano in Ghana and beyond.

In all, the Cardano Ghana Community Expansion project aims to make a meaningful and lasting contribution to the growth and success of the Cardano ecosystem by fostering adoption, awareness, and support in Ghana. Through strategic partnerships, community engagement, and advocacy efforts, the project seeks to create a thriving Cardano community in Ghana that serves as a model for blockchain adoption and innovation in Ghana and beyond.

[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?

As Cardano Ambassador and founder of Cardano Ghana Community, I have extensive experience in organizing successful events and fostering community engagement. Validation will be through regular progress updates and feedback from community members.

Track Record:

Below are some of our completed and successful projects:

Fund9: Catalyst Campus Train -

Cardano Ghana Community Launch - https://youtu.be/lDwspVGpOiw?si=HFcREMBCP5Vrg1AY

Close-out report video for Cardano Ghana Community project in Fund10 - https://youtu.be/nxfmLlG0j4c?si=qvjyDXQHJ-EW2D2P

F11: Catalyst Working Group (CWG) Workshop coverage on TV - https://youtu.be/ouwH4e6C04U?si=EqHjJhiTRO6TWj8c

https://youtu.be/M9ak6z-bd_s?si=UbRRW6Afq08T8phh

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

Engage and collaborate with at least two (2) major youth groups in Ghana.

A: Milestone outputs:

1. Establish partnerships with two major youth groups in Ghan
2. Conduct introductory meetings with the leadership of each youth group to discuss collaboration opportunitie
3. Develop a plan of action outlining the scope of collaboration and key activities to be undertake

B: Acceptance criteria:

1. Signed partnership agreements with the two identified youth group
2. Minutes of the introductory meetings documenting discussions and agreement on collaboration opportunitie
3. Detailed plan of action approved by both parties outlining specific activities and timeline

C: Evidence of milestone completion:

1. Signed partnership agreements and official communication confirming collaboratio
2. Minutes of meetings signed by both partie
3. Approved plan of action with signatures from relevant stakeholder

Budget Breakdown for Milestone 1:

• Transportation: 4,800 ADA
• Meeting expenses (refreshments, venue rental, etc.): 7,200 ADA
• Documentation and administrative costs: 3,000 ADA

• Total Budget: 12,000 ADA

Hold stakeholder dialogue with two (2) youth policy makers in Ghana.

A: Milestone outputs:

1. Organize stakeholder dialogue sessions with representatives from the National Youth Authority (NYA) and Metropolitan Assembly leadershi
2. Facilitate discussions on the goals and objectives of the Cardano Ghana Community and its potential impac
3. Seek commitment and support from policymakers to accommodate Cardano within existing regulatory frameworks and facilitate its expansion in Ghan

B: Acceptance criteria:

1. Documentation of stakeholder dialogue sessions, including agendas, participant lists, and minutes of discussion
2. Commitment and support from policymakers expressed through official statements or endorsement
3. Action plan developed in collaboration with policymakers outlining next steps and areas of cooperatio

C: Evidence of milestone completion:

1. Comprehensive documentation of stakeholder dialogue sessions, including signed agendas and minutes of discussion
2. Official statements or endorsements from policymakers expressing commitment and support for Cardano initiatives in Ghan
3. Approved action plan with signatures from relevant stakeholder

Budget Breakdown for Milestone 2:

• Venue rental: 4,800 ADA
• Logistics and refreshments for stakeholders: 7,200 ADA
• Documentation and administrative costs: 3,000 ADA

• Total Budget: 12,000 ADA

Prepare and submit close-out report and video of the project

A: Milestone outputs:

1. Close-out report detailing project activities, outcomes, and lessons learne
2. Video presentation summarizing the project journey, achievements, and future plan
3. Submission of all required documentation and deliverables to the Catalyst platfor

B: Acceptance criteria:

1. Comprehensive close-out report covering all aspects of the project, including milestones achieved, challenges faced, and recommendations for future initiative
2. Video presentation demonstrating key highlights of the project and its impact on the Cardano community in Ghan
3. Submission of all required documentation, including signed agreements, meeting minutes, and financial reports, to the Catalyst platfor

C: Evidence of milestone completion:

1. Signed close-out report with endorsements from project stakeholder
2. Video presentation uploaded to the designated platfor
3. Confirmation of submission of all required documentation and deliverables to the Catalyst platfor

Budget Breakdown for Final Milestone:

• Video production: 2,400 ADA
• Documentation and administrative costs: 3,600 ADA

Total Budget: 6,000 ADA

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

[RESOURCES] Project Team:

1. Mohammed Mustapha Yakubu

• Role: Project Lead
• LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammed-mustapha-yakubu
• Responsibilities: As the Cardano Ambassador and Founder of Cardano Ghana Community, Mohammed brings extensive experience in organizing successful events and fostering community engagement. He will oversee the project's execution, including partnership establishment, stakeholder engagement, and overall project management.

2. Cardano Ghana Community Team

• Role: Support Team
• Responsibilities: The Cardano Ghana Community team comprises individuals with diverse skills and experiences in community building, event organization, and advocacy. They have played instrumental roles in the success of previous Cardano events in Ghana, demonstrating their capability to mobilize resources, engage stakeholders, and drive community initiatives. As a support team, they will assist in various aspects of the project, including event coordination, outreach activities, and communication with stakeholders.

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

30,000 ADA across the three milestones using the 40-40-20 rule:

Milestone 1:

• Budget: 40% of 30,000 ADA = 12,000 ADA

Budget Breakdown for Milestone 1:

• Transportation: 3,800 ADA
• Meeting expenses (refreshments, venue rental, etc.): 6,200 ADA
• Documentation and administrative costs: 2,000 ADA

M1 Total Budget: 12,000 ADA

Milestone 2:

• Budget: 40% of 30,000 ADA = 12,000 ADA

Budget Breakdown for Milestone 2:

• Venue rental and event materials: 3,800 ADA
• Logistics and refreshments for stakeholders: 6,200 ADA
• Documentation and administrative costs: 2,000 ADA

M2 Total Budget - 12,000 ADA

Final Milestone:

• Budget: 20% of 30,000 ADA = 6,000 ADA

Budget Breakdown for Final Milestone:

• Video production: 2,400 ADA
• Documentation and administrative costs: 3,600 ADA

M3 Total Budget: 6,000 ADA

• With this 40/40/20 budget allocation, each milestone has its share of funds to execute the planned activities effectively while ensuring accountability and transparency throughout the project. 

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

The proposed budget allocation of 30,000 ADA across the three milestones reflects a strategic investment in expanding Cardano's presence in Ghana. By leveraging the 40-40-20 rule, each milestone is allocated sufficient funds to execute planned activities effectively, ensuring accountability and transparency throughout the project.

The value for money is evident in the following ways:

1. Strategic Impact: The project aims to engage key stakeholders, including major youth groups and policy makers, to foster adoption and awareness of Cardano.
2. Community Engagement: With a focus on grassroots engagement and community outreach, the project ensures that funds are utilized to directly engage with target audiences, such as youth groups and policy stakeholder.
3. Transparency and Accountability: The budget breakdown for each milestone provides transparency regarding how funds will be utilized for specific activities, such as transportation, venue rental, event logistics, and documentation.
4. Value Proposition: The proposed budget allocation represents value for money by enabling the project to achieve its objectives efficiently and effectivel

Hence, the budget allocation reflects a strategic and cost-effective approach to expanding Cardano's presence in Ghana, delivering significant value for the Cardano ecosystem by fostering adoption, awareness, and community engagement.