Nuluna - a European event illuminating the intersection of art, music, gaming with technology.

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Issy Robson

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

Entity (Not Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Requested funds in ada

100000

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

10

[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)

We’re creating a new event format, Nuluna, which targets everyday people alongside industry specialists: inviting them to explore new ideas that challenge existing paradigms in art, music and gaming.

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

Yes

[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.”

Hosting an event requires dependency on third parties organisations and individuals such as: hotels, event space, speakers etc. We will do our best to minimise disturbance by foreseeing potential delays caused by third parties and by making sure we take fast action to rectify any issues.

[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

NA

[METADATA] SDG rating

NA

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

We’re creating a new event format, Nuluna, which targets everyday people alongside industry specialists and invites them to explore new ideas that challenge existing paradigms in art, music and gaming.

The aim is to host a killer event - both fun and informative - with ~1000 participants from all over Europe.

• Discover how blockchain is shaping the world. 
• Experience art and live music performances 
• Connect with individuals and enjoy specialist talks / workshops.

Problem Perception: The challenge revolves around the need to spotlight how blockchain technology can revolutionise 3 of the largest entertainment sectors: music, art and gaming. We need to break into the entertainment space with an event that not only entertains but educates - a gathering that celebrates culture, fosters fun and sparks curiosity into this blossoming space.

Approach Rationale: Enter Nuluna; an event that is more than your average tech conference. Nuluna will be an event that illuminates art, music, and gaming under the blockchain umbrella. By bringing together these seemingly disparate elements, we aim to show the world how blockchain (specifically Cardano) can shake up artistic experiences, as well as stimulate creativity and encourage interdisciplinary collaboration.

Target Audience: We hope this event will engage a diverse audience including artists, musicians, technologists, blockchain enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and individuals curious about exploring new ideas. Nuluna seeks to land on a truly unique ecosystem approach where people from diverse walks-of-life are invited to learn, collaborate, enjoy the arts and above all, have fun.

Impact Demonstration: We will demonstrate our impact through two key metrics: attendance numbers and participant feedback.

Unique Solution and Benefits to Cardano: What sets Nuluna apart is a unique blend of entertainment, education, and community-building within the context of a blockchain event. We propose to also leverage the Cardano blockchain for ticketing, identity verification, and tokenised experiences. This means that Nuluna will be a fun and informative event that also showcases the practical applications of Cardano technology. 

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

Nuluna presents a unique opportunity to attract new community members and contribute to the growth of the Cardano ecosystem. By showcasing practical applications of Cardano's blockchain technology in a cool environment, we aim to pique the interest of individuals in (and fans of) music, art, gaming and technology. Through engaging workshops and educational sessions, attendees will not only learn and experience Cardano's capabilities but we hope such experiences will encourage new advocates for the platform.

[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?

The team behind Clay Nation has shown a robust commitment and capability to deliver, with over 2.5 years of experience operating in the Cardano space.

Clay Nation has experience hosting events across the globe- including over-subscribed events in Lausanne and Las Vegas.

We will prioritise transparency and communication, through use of several communication channels - X, Telegram and Discord - ensuring that the community stays informed and engaged throughout the process.

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

Milestone: Secure Venue Booking

Milestone Output: Confirmation of venue booking for the event dates, meeting all necessary requirements and staying within the allocated budget.

Acceptance Criteria:

1. Identify and evaluate potential venues based on location, capacity, facilities, and budget.
2. Select the preferred venue based on suitability and affordability.
3. Receive official confirmation of venue booking, including reserved space and amenities.

Evidence of Milestone Completion one of the following:

• Signed contract or agreement with the selected venue.
• Official confirmation email or letter from the venue confirming the booking.
• Receipt or invoice for any deposit or payment made to secure the booking.

By achieving this milestone, the venue for the event will be successfully secured, meeting all criteria and ensuring a smooth planning process.

Milestone Output: Commencement of ticket sales for the event.

Acceptance Criteria:

1. Set up an online ticketing platform or partner with a ticketing service provider.
2. Create ticketing categories (e.g., general admission, VIP, early bird) with corresponding prices and benefits.
3. Design and launch promotional materials announcing ticket sales, including social media posts, email campaigns, and website banners.

Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• Online ticketing platform set up and operational.
• Ticket prices and categories defined and published.
• Promotional materials launched across various channels.

By achieving this milestone, ticket sales for the event will be underway, contributing to its success and revenue generation.

Milestone: Secure Speakers and Acts for Event

Milestone Output: Confirmation of speakers and Acts for the event program, ensuring a diverse and engaging lineup.

Acceptance Criteria:

1. Research and identify potential speakers based on relevance to the event theme and audience interests.
2. Finalise agreements with speakers, outlining expectations, topics, and presentation formats.
3. Obtain necessary documentation, confirmation email.

Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• List of confirmed speakers with their respective topics and presentation details.
• Confirmation Email
• Communication materials announcing the speaker lineup to attendees and stakeholders.

By achieving this milestone, speakers for the event will be secured, contributing to its overall success and program quality.

Milestone: Public Announcement of Event Speakers and Venues

Milestone Output: Official announcement of event speakers and venues to generate excitement and attract attendees.

Acceptance Criteria:

1. Compile finalised information about confirmed speakers, including their names, titles, affiliations, and topics.
2. Distribute promotional materials across various channels, including social media platforms, event websites, newsletters, and press releases.

Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• Comprehensive information about event venues, including descriptions and images.
• Completed promotional materials, including press releases, social media posts, and email newsletters.
• Confirmation of promotional materials distribution across various channels.

By achieving this milestone, the event speakers and venues will be officially announced to the public, generating anticipation and interest among potential attendees.

Project Closeout Report

Project Closeout Video

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

For Nuluna, we will use the expertise and resources of the Clay Nation team, if additional expertise are required, we will hire as needed. 

Clay Nation will cover the following:

Lenna Onto - Project management, Speaker coordination

Issy Robson - Project management, Marketing and comms

Effrosyni Tsorapa - Logistics coordination and technical support

Lauren Craig - Community coordination

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

Budget breakdown:

1. Venue Rental: This can vary widely depending on the location and facilities. For a mid-sized conference centre or hotel, it could range from $10,000 to $50,000 for two days. Let's estimate $30,000.
2. Catering: Assuming three meals a day plus snacks and beverages, and estimating around $30-$50 per person per day, the total catering cost could range from $60,000 to $100,000.
3. Entertainment/Activities: Depending on the scale and type of activities, this could range from $5,000 to $20,000.
4. Audio-Visual Equipment: Rental costs for AV equipment could be around $5,000 to $15,000.
5. Staffing: Budgeting for event staff including coordinators, security, registration personnel, and technical support could range from $10,000 to $30,000.
6. Marketing and Promotion: Depending on the extent of marketing efforts, this could range from $5,000 to $20,000.
7. Transportation and Accommodation: If attendees are coming from out of town, transportation costs (if applicable) and accommodation costs could range from $20,000 to $100,000, depending on the distance traveled and the level of accommodation provided.
8. Miscellaneous Expenses: It's prudent to set aside around 10% of the total budget for miscellaneous expenses. Let's estimate $20,000 for this.

Adding up these estimates:

• Venue Rental: $30,000
• Catering: $80,000
• Entertainment/Activities: $10,000
• Audio-Visual Equipment: $10,000
• Staffing: $20,000
• Marketing and Promotion: $10,000
• Transportation and Accommodation: $50,000
• Miscellaneous Expenses: $20,000

Total Budget Estimate: $230,000

The Catalyst funding will be used to initially secure the event venue, putting the event planning in motion. We are well aware that we have to sell upfront tickets and also procure sponsorships to make such an event happen, and we are confident we can do so.

[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 by leveraging the experience and track record of Clay Nation. With a history of coordinating multiple successful events around the world - Clay Nation has demonstrated its ability to create awareness for the Cardano community and deliver impactful experiences.

Catalyst funding is just the initial investment to kickstart the event and lay the foundation for its success. The majority of the project's financing will be generated through ticket sales and event sponsors.

This approach ensures that the project represents value for money by efficiently allocating resources to achieve its objectives and deliver tangible outcomes.