Carda Sci: Decentralized Platform for Scientific Research

[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] 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)

CardaSci, a decentralized platform on Cardano, to democratize funding, enhance data sharing, and streamline collaboration in scientific research, solving centralization and inefficiencies.

[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

Open Source License:

We intend to release CardaSci under the MIT License, which is a permissive open-source license that allows for maximum freedom in the use and distribution of the code.

Open Source Elements:

1. Smart Contracts: All smart contracts developed for funding mechanisms, data management, and intellectual property will be open source.
2. Decentralized Data Repositories: The code for decentralized data storage and access protocols will be open source to ensure transparency and encourage collaboration.
3. Peer Review System: The Cardano-based peer review system will be open source, allowing the community to audit and contribute to its development.
4. Tokenization Mechanisms: The smart contracts and protocols for SciToken creation and management will be publicly available.
5. Open Access Journal Platform: The software powering the open access journal will be open source, promoting wide adoption and innovation.

Repository and Accessibility:

• The entire lifecycle of the CardaSci project will be documented and shared through a public GitHub repository.
• Regular updates and community engagement will be maintained to ensure transparency and collaboration.

By making CardaSci open source, we aim to foster an inclusive and collaborative environment, encouraging contributions from the global research and developer communities.

[METADATA] SDG rating

Carda Sci aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly focusing on enhancing scientific research, promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth, and fostering innovation and infrastructure. Here are the relevant SDGs and their associated targets and key performance indicators (KPIs):

SDG 4: Quality Education

• Target 4.3: By 2030, ensure equal access for all women and men to affordable and quality technical, vocational, and tertiary education, including university.
• KPI: Number of researchers utilizing Carda Sci for data sharing and collaboration, enabling more equitable access to scientific resources and knowledge.

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

• Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries, particularly developing countries, including by encouraging innovation and substantially increasing the number of research and development workers per 1 million people.
• KPI: Number of scientific projects funded and supported through the Carda Sci platform.
• KPI: Number of collaborative research projects facilitated by Carda Sci.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

• Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, or economic or other status.
• KPI: Diversity of researchers and institutions participating in the Carda Sci ecosystem.
• KPI: Amount of funding distributed to researchers from underrepresented and developing regions.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

• Target 17.6: Enhance the global partnership for sustainable development, complemented by multi-stakeholder partnerships that mobilize and share knowledge, expertise, technology, and financial resources, to support the achievement of the sustainable development goals in all countries, particularly developing countries.
• KPI: Number of partnerships established with academic institutions, research organizations, and industry leaders.
• KPI: Volume of scientific data shared and accessed through the platform.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

To measure the impact and success of Carda Sci in alignment with these SDGs, the following KPIs will be tracked:

User Engagement:

• Number of registered users and active researchers on the platform.
• Number of research projects submitted, reviewed, and funded.

Funding and Investment:

• Total amount of funds raised through tokenized crowdfunding and decentralized grants.
• Distribution of funds across various research disciplines and geographical regions.

Data and Collaboration:

• Volume of data uploaded, shared, and accessed within the decentralized data repositories.
• Number of collaborative research projects initiated and successfully completed.

Innovation and Development:

• Number of new research papers published through the open-access journal.
• Citations and impact factor of research facilitated by Carda Sci.

Community and Outreach:

• Number of educational campaigns, webinars, and outreach programs conducted.
• Feedback and satisfaction levels from the Carda Sci community and stakeholders.

By aligning Carda Sci with these SDGs and monitoring these KPIs, we aim to create a meaningful impact on global scientific research, fostering an inclusive, innovative, and sustainable ecosystem.

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

The current landscape of scientific research is plagued by centralized control, inefficiencies, and barriers to funding and data access. Traditional funding mechanisms are often slow, opaque, and biased, limiting opportunities for innovative ideas and underrepresented groups. Scientific data is frequently siloed within institutions, restricting collaboration and hindering reproducibility.

By leveraging Cardano's unique features, we aim to create a decentralized platform that democratizes access to funding, enhances data sharing, and streamlines collaboration among researchers. Cardano's focus on scientific rigor and peer-reviewed research aligns perfectly with our vision for CardaSci, ensuring that our platform is built on a robust and reliable foundation.

Unique Features of Cardano Utilized:

Scientific Rigor and Peer-Reviewed Research:

• Foundation of Excellence: Cardano's commitment to scientific research and peer-reviewed development ensures that the underlying technology of Carda Sci is secure, scalable, and reliable. This aligns with our goal of fostering a trustworthy platform for researchers.

Plutus Smart Contracts:

• Automated Funding Mechanisms: Using Cardano's Plutus smart contracts, CardaSci will create transparent and automated funding processes. Researchers can submit proposals, which are then reviewed and voted on by the community. Funds are disbursed automatically upon meeting predefined milestones, ensuring accountability and efficiency.

Metadata and Native Tokens:

• Decentralized Data Repositories: Cardano’s metadata functionality and native tokens will be used to create secure and immutable data repositories. Researchers can upload, share, and control their data, ensuring it is accessible and verifiable while maintaining ownership rights.
• Tokenized Crowdfunding: Our native token, SciToken, will enable decentralized crowdfunding. Researchers can raise funds directly from the community, offering SciTokens as rewards and equity, democratizing funding access.

Ouroboros Consensus Protocol:

• Scalability and Security: Cardano’s Ouroboros consensus protocol ensures that the platform can handle large volumes of data and transactions efficiently, providing a secure and scalable environment for researchers worldwide.

Hydra Scaling Solution:

• Enhanced Performance: CardaSci will leverage Cardano’s Hydra scaling solution to achieve high throughput and low latency, critical for handling extensive scientific data and collaborative processes.

Governance and Community Engagement:

• Decentralized Governance: Utilizing Cardano’s governance model, CardaSci will engage the community in decision-making processes, ensuring that the platform evolves in alignment with the needs of its users.
• Ethical Oversight: A decentralized ethical review board, governed by the community, will ensure that research projects adhere to ethical standards, promoting responsible research practices.

Project Engagement:

CardaSci will engage a diverse range of stakeholders, including:

• Researchers and Scientists: Providing them with a platform to secure funding, share data, and collaborate on projects.
• Academic Institutions: Facilitating partnerships and collaborative research efforts.
• Investors and Funders: Offering opportunities to support innovative research through tokenized crowdfunding.
• Students and Early-Career Researchers: Democratizing access to research resources and funding, encouraging participation from underrepresented groups.
• General Public: Promoting citizen science and public engagement in scientific research.

Proving Our Impact:

To demonstrate and prove the impact of CardaSci, we will:

• Track Metrics: Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as the number of registered users, funded projects, collaborative research efforts, and the volume of data shared.
• Conduct Surveys: Collect feedback from users and stakeholders to assess satisfaction and identify areas for improvement.
• Public Reporting: Provide regular updates and transparency reports on the platform’s activities and achievements.
• Case Studies: Highlight successful research projects and collaborations facilitated by CardaSci.

Beneficiaries:

• Researchers and Scientists: Gain equitable access to funding and data, enhancing their ability to innovate and collaborate.
• Academic Institutions: Benefit from increased collaboration opportunities and access to diverse funding sources.
• Early-Career Researchers and Students: Receive support and resources to pursue their research, reducing barriers to entry.
• Investors and Funders: Participate in a transparent and accountable funding ecosystem, supporting groundbreaking research.
• General Public: Gains access to open research data and findings, promoting scientific literacy and public engagement.

Importance to Cardano:

Carda Sci exemplifies the potential of the Cardano blockchain to drive social and scientific progress. By addressing critical issues in the research ecosystem, our platform:

• Showcases Cardano’s Capabilities: Demonstrates the practical applications of Cardano’s smart contracts, scalability, and low transaction fees.
• Fosters Innovation: Encourages the development of new blockchain-based solutions for various industries.
• Builds Community: Engages a global community of researchers, institutions, and investors, strengthening the Cardano ecosystem.
• Aligns with Cardano’s Vision: Supports Cardano’s mission of creating a more inclusive and equitable world through decentralized technologies.

In summary, CardaSci leverages the robust features of the Cardano blockchain to create a transparent, secure, and inclusive platform for scientific research. By addressing key challenges in funding, data sharing, and collaboration, CardaSci aims to accelerate scientific discovery and foster a global research community, benefiting researchers, institutions, and society as a whole.

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

Value to the Cardano Community:

Showcase of Cardano's Capabilities:

• Demonstration of Technology: By successfully implementing CardaSci on the Cardano blockchain, we will showcase the practical applications of Cardano’s smart contracts, scalability, and low transaction fees. This will highlight Cardano’s strengths and encourage more developers and projects to build on the Cardano network.
• Advancement of Decentralized Applications: CardaSci will serve as a model for other decentralized applications (dApps) in various fields, demonstrating the potential of blockchain technology to solve real-world problems.

Enhanced Community Engagement:

• Global Collaboration: CardaSci will foster a global research community, engaging scientists, researchers, and institutions from around the world. This will increase the diversity and inclusivity of the Cardano ecosystem.
• Education and Awareness: Our educational outreach programs will raise awareness about Cardano and blockchain technology among researchers, students, and the general public, driving broader adoption and understanding.

Economic Opportunities:

• Job Creation: The development and maintenance of CardaSci will create job opportunities for developers, researchers, and blockchain professionals within the Cardano community.
• Investment Potential: The tokenized funding mechanisms of CardaSci will provide new investment opportunities for the Cardano community, allowing members to support and benefit from innovative research projects.

Scientific and Social Impact:

• Acceleration of Scientific Discovery: By democratizing access to funding and data, CardaSci will accelerate scientific research and innovation, leading to advancements in various fields and contributing to the global knowledge base.
• Promotion of Open Science: The open access and decentralized nature of CardaSci will promote the principles of open science, making research more transparent, reproducible, and accessible.

Measuring Impact:

Quantitative Metrics:

• User Engagement: Number of registered users, active researchers, and institutions participating on the platform.
• Funding and Projects: Total amount of funds raised, number of projects funded, and diversity of research disciplines supported.
• Data Sharing: Volume of data uploaded, shared, and accessed within the decentralized data repositories.
• Publications and Reviews: Number of research papers published through the open-access journal and the number of peer reviews conducted.

Qualitative Metrics:

• User Feedback: Regular surveys and feedback forms to assess user satisfaction and gather suggestions for improvement.
• Case Studies: Detailed case studies of successful research projects and collaborations facilitated by CardaSci.
• Community Engagement: Participation in educational programs, webinars, and outreach events, and the impact of these initiatives on awareness and adoption.

Sharing Outputs and Opportunities:

Open Source Repository:

• Public GitHub Repository: All code and documentation will be made available in a public GitHub repository, ensuring transparency and encouraging collaboration. Regular updates and contributions from the community will be welcomed and integrated.

Regular Reporting and Updates:

• Transparency Reports: Periodic transparency reports will be published, detailing the platform’s activities, achievements, and financials.
• Community Updates: Regular updates will be shared with the Cardano community through forums, social media, and newsletters.

Educational and Outreach Programs:

• Webinars and Workshops: Regular webinars and workshops will be conducted to educate researchers, students, and the general public about blockchain technology and the CardaSci platform.
• Partnerships: Collaborations with academic institutions and research organizations to promote the use of CardaSci and integrate it into existing research infrastructures.

Events and Conferences:

• Presentations and Panels: Participation in blockchain and scientific conferences to present the progress and impact of CardaSci.
• Community Meetups: Organizing and participating in Cardano community meetups to engage with members, gather feedback, and promote the platform.

By measuring and sharing the impact of CardaSci through these quantitative and qualitative metrics, and by maintaining open and transparent communication with the Cardano community, we aim to ensure that our project not only succeeds but also brings substantial value to the broader Cardano ecosystem.

[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?

I bring a diverse and dynamic background, having successfully navigated the eyewear and F&B industries. My journey is marked by a blend of ambition, creative genius, and a relentless drive to innovate. With my proven executory and managerial skills, I have consistently delivered on ambitious projects, demonstrating an ability to turn visionary ideas into reality.

Existing Capabilities:

Blockchain and Crypto Expertise:

• Technical Proficiency: I possess a deep understanding of blockchain technology, smart contracts, and decentralized applications (dApps). My enthusiasm for blockchain technology has led me to continually expand my knowledge and stay updated with the latest advancements in the field.
• Project Management: My background in managing complex projects equips me with the skills needed to oversee the development of CardaSci. I am adept at coordinating teams, managing timelines, and ensuring the successful execution of project milestones.

Innovative Thinking and Problem-Solving:

• Creative Instincts: My ability to fuse creativity with cutting-edge technology positions me as a trailblazer in the blockchain space. I excel in identifying innovative solutions to complex problems, driving the project forward with a unique perspective.
• Strategic Vision: I have a clear vision for CardaSci, understanding the potential impact of decentralized scientific research on the global community. This strategic outlook ensures that every decision made aligns with our long-term goals.

Steps to Validate Feasibility:

Proof of Concept (PoC):

• Initial Development: We will develop a PoC to validate the key components of the CardaSci platform. This includes creating and testing smart contracts, setting up decentralized data repositories, and designing the user interface.
• Pilot Testing: The PoC will be tested with a small group of researchers and institutions to gather feedback and refine the platform before full-scale development.

Scalability and Security Testing:

• Stress Testing: We will conduct rigorous scalability and performance testing to ensure the platform can handle large volumes of data and transactions efficiently.
• Security Audits: Regular security audits by reputable third-party firms will be conducted to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities.

1. Community Feedback:

• User Surveys: We will engage with the research community through surveys and feedback forms, ensuring that the platform meets their needs and expectations.
• Iterative Development: Based on user feedback and testing results, we will iteratively refine and improve the platform to ensure its usability and success.

Trust and Fund Management:

Transparent Fund Management:

• Public Ledger: All transactions and fund allocations will be recorded on the Cardano blockchain, providing an immutable and transparent record of financial activities.
• Regular Audits: Financial audits will be conducted regularly by third-party auditors to ensure proper management of funds and compliance with financial regulations.

Milestone-Based Funding:

• Phased Release: Funds will be released in phases based on the successful completion of predefined milestones. This ensures accountability and allows for continuous assessment of project progress.
• Milestone Reporting: Detailed reports will be provided at the completion of each milestone, outlining achievements, challenges, and next steps.

With a proven track record of successful project management, innovative thinking, and a deep understanding of blockchain technology, I am well-equipped to deliver the CardaSci project with high levels of trust and accountability. Through transparent fund management, rigorous testing, and continuous community engagement, we will ensure that CardaSci not only meets but exceeds the expectations of the Cardano ecosystem, driving innovation and fostering a new era of decentralized scientific research.

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

Platform Foundation Development (Month 1-2)

A. Milestone Outputs:

• Development of Core Smart Contracts:
• Design and develop smart contracts for the core funding mechanisms, including proposal submission, community voting, and fund disbursement.
• Conduct internal audits and peer reviews to ensure contract security and functionality.
• Initial Setup of Decentralized Data Repositories:
• Create a prototype of decentralized data repositories using Cardano's metadata capabilities.
• Implement basic functionalities for data upload, storage, and access.
• Basic User Interface (UI):
• Design a user-friendly interface that allows researchers to submit proposals, vote on them, and access shared data.
• Ensure the UI is intuitive and aligns with the needs of the scientific community.

B. Acceptance Criteria:

• Smart Contracts: Successfully deployed on the Cardano testnet, with functional tests demonstrating the correct execution of proposal submission, voting, and fund disbursement.
• Data Repositories: Operational prototype allowing for secure data uploads and access, tested with sample datasets.
• UI: Reviewed and approved by the project team, with positive feedback from initial test users regarding usability and functionality.

C. Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• Smart Contract Code: Link to the code repository on GitHub, with documentation and test results.
• Demo Video: Demonstrating the functionality of the data repository and UI.
• Testnet Transaction IDs: Showing successful execution of the deployed smart contracts.

Token Launch and Crowdfunding Mechanism (Month 3-4)

A. Milestone Outputs:

• Launch of SciToken: Creation and deployment of the native SciToken on the Cardano blockchain.
• Tokenized Crowdfunding Mechanism: Development of a crowdfunding mechanism that allows researchers to raise funds by offering SciTokens to the community.
• UI Integration: Integration of token functionalities into the platform UI, enabling users to participate in crowdfunding and manage their tokens.

B. Acceptance Criteria:

• SciToken Deployment: Successful deployment and verification of SciToken on the Cardano blockchain.
• Operational Crowdfunding: A working crowdfunding mechanism tested with demo projects to ensure it meets functional requirements.
• UI Enhancement: Updated UI reflecting token functionalities, including user wallets and crowdfunding participation features.

C. Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• GitHub Repository: Link to the token contract code in a public GitHub repository.
• Demo Video: Video demonstration of the crowdfunding process and token transactions.
• Blockchain Transactions: Testnet transaction IDs for token creation and transfers, verifying the operational status of SciToken.

Peer Review System and Open Access Journal (Month 5-6)

A. Milestone Outputs:

• Decentralized Peer Review System: Development of a transparent peer review system where reviews are timestamped and recorded on the blockchain.
• Open Access Journal Platform: Launch of the open-access journal where researchers can publish their work without paywalls.
• UI Integration: Incorporation of peer review and journal features into the platform UI, enabling submission, review, and publication of research papers.

B. Acceptance Criteria:

• Peer Review System Functionality: Operational peer review system tested with sample submissions to ensure it functions as intended.
• Journal Platform Launch: Live journal platform with at least one published research paper, demonstrating end-to-end functionality.
• UI Enhancement: Updated UI to include features for submitting papers, conducting peer reviews, and publishing research.

C. Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• GitHub Repository: Link to the peer review system code in a public GitHub repository.
• Demo Video: Video demonstration of the peer review and publication process.
• Journal Platform: Screenshots or links to the live journal platform showing published papers and the review process.

Milestone 4: Project Close-out Report and Video (Month 7)

A. Milestone Outputs:

• Comprehensive Project Report: Detailed report documenting the project’s progress, achievements, financials, and lessons learned.
• Final Project Video: A summary video highlighting key milestones, successes, user feedback, and overall impact.
• Open-Source Repository: Public release of the project’s code and documentation, making it accessible to the community for further development and collaboration.

B. Acceptance Criteria:

• Project Report Approval: Thorough review and approval of the project report by the project team and stakeholders.
• Final Video Completion: Production of the final project video and its dissemination to the Cardano community.
• Repository Completion: Complete and up-to-date GitHub repository with all relevant code, documentation, and user guides.

C. Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• Project Report: Link to the comprehensive project report document.
• Project Video: Link to the final project video on a public platform (e.g., YouTube).
• GitHub Repository: Link to the open-source repository on GitHub, containing all project code and documentation.

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

Anusha Jain - Project Lead

• Role: Oversees the entire project, ensures alignment with strategic goals, manages stakeholder relationships, and coordinates between different teams.

Lead Blockchain Developer

• Role: Responsible for the development and deployment of smart contracts, integrating blockchain functionalities, and ensuring the security and scalability of the platform.

UI/UX Designer

• Role: Designs the user interface and user experience, ensuring the platform is intuitive and user-friendly. Works closely with front-end developers to implement designs.

Front-End Developer

• Role: Develops the front-end of the platform, ensuring seamless integration with back-end services and smart contracts. Implements UI designs and improves user interaction.

Marketing and Community Engagement Lead

• Role: Develops and executes marketing strategies, manages community outreach, and conducts educational campaigns to promote the platform and engage with potential users.

Legal Advisor

• Role: Provides legal guidance on compliance, intellectual property, and contracts. Ensures that the platform adheres to regulatory requirements and best practices.

I acknowledge that Catalyst funding is not anonymous and will comply with all verification processes. By assembling a team with diverse expertise and clearly defined roles, we are confident in our ability to deliver the CardaSci project successfully and bring significant value to the Cardano ecosystem.

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

Total Grant Amount: ₳89,500

Duration: 7 months

Platform Foundation Development (Month 1-2)

A. Development of Core Smart Contracts:

• Blockchain Developers: ₳15,000
• Smart Contract Auditing: ₳3,000

B. Initial Setup of Decentralized Data Repositories:

• Cloud Storage Services: ₳2,000
• Security and Encryption Software: ₳1,000

C. Basic User Interface (UI):

• UI/UX Designer: ₳3,000
• Front-end Development: ₳5,000

Total for Milestone 1: ₳29,000

Token Launch and Crowdfunding Mechanism (Month 3-4)

A. Launch of SciToken:

• Blockchain Developers: ₳10,000
• Token Auditing: ₳2,000

B. Tokenized Crowdfunding Mechanism:

• Smart Contract Development: ₳7,000
• Crowdfunding Platform Setup: ₳3,000

C. UI Integration:

• UI/UX Designer: ₳2,000
• Front-end Development: ₳4,000

Total for Milestone 2: ₳28,000

Peer Review System and Open Access Journal (Month 5-6)

A. Development of Peer Review System:

• Blockchain Developers: ₳8,000
• Peer Review System Auditing: ₳2,000

B. Launch of Open Access Journal Platform:

• Journal Platform Development: ₳6,000
• Content Management System (CMS): ₳2,000

C. UI Integration:

• UI/UX Designer: ₳2,000
• Front-end Development: ₳4,000

Total for Milestone 3: ₳24,000

Project Close-out Report and Video (Month 7)

A. Comprehensive Project Report:

• Documentation Specialist: ₳3,000
• Report Production: ₳1,000

B. Final Project Video:

• Video Production: ₳4,000

C. Open-Source Repository:

• Repository Setup and Maintenance: ₳500

Total for Milestone 4: ₳8,500

Additional Costs

A. Publicity, Marketing, and Community Engagement:

• Marketing Campaigns: ₳5,000
• Community Events and Webinars: ₳3,000

B. Project Management:

• Project Manager: ₳6,000

C. Legal and Professional Services:

• Legal Services (Contracts, Compliance): ₳2,000
• Accounting Services: ₳2,000

Total for Additional Costs: ₳18,000

Summary of Costs:

• Milestone 1: ₳29,000
• Milestone 2: ₳28,000
• Milestone 3: ₳24,000
• Milestone 4: ₳8,500
• Additional Costs: ₳18,000

Grand Total: ₳89,500

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

The CardaSci project represents a significant investment in the future of decentralized scientific research. Here’s how the costs reflect value for money and contribute to the Cardano ecosystem:

Leveraging Cardano’s Unique Features:

• Scalability and Security: By building on the Cardano blockchain, we ensure a scalable and secure platform, leveraging Cardano’s robust infrastructure and consensus mechanisms.
• Low Transaction Fees: Cardano’s low transaction fees make it feasible to operate a platform that will handle numerous small transactions, such as micro-funding for research projects.

Supporting Evidence for Costs:

• Industry Rates: The costs for blockchain developers, UI/UX designers, and other professionals are based on current industry rates. For instance, blockchain developers typically charge between $100-$150 per hour, and UI/UX designers charge $50-$100 per hour. These rates are aligned with the average wages in the tech industry in many countries.
• Smart Contract Auditing: Given the critical nature of security in blockchain applications, the allocation for smart contract auditing is essential. Our allocation of ₳3,000 per audit reasonable and necessary.
• Marketing and Community Engagement: Effective marketing and community engagement are crucial for the success of the platform. The allocated ₳8,000 is comparable to industry standards for a comprehensive marketing campaign, including online advertising, webinars, and community events.

Long-term Benefits to Cardano:

• Increased Adoption: By providing a platform that integrates seamlessly with Cardano, we drive adoption of the Cardano blockchain within the scientific community, increasing transaction volume and network activity.
• Demonstrating Cardano’s Capabilities: CardaSci will showcase Cardano’s smart contract functionality, scalability, and low fees, encouraging other projects to consider Cardano as their platform of choice.
• Building a Knowledge Base: The open-source nature of CardaSci means that the code, methodologies, and findings will be available to the entire Cardano community, fostering further innovation and development.

Impact and ROI:

• Democratizing Research Funding: By enabling decentralized funding, we provide equitable access to resources, potentially leading to groundbreaking discoveries and innovations.
• Enhancing Collaboration: The platform will facilitate global collaboration among researchers, leading to more efficient and impactful research outcomes.
• Educational Outreach: Our educational programs will increase blockchain literacy among researchers, broadening the base of Cardano users and advocates.

Decision Process for Costs:

• Market Research: We conducted thorough market research to determine fair and competitive rates for all services and products involved in the project.
• Expert Consultation: We consulted with industry experts to ensure that our budget allocations are realistic and sufficient to achieve our goals.
• Efficiency and Optimization: We have streamlined processes and identified cost-effective solutions to maximize the impact of each expenditure.

The cost of the CardaSci project is justified by the significant benefits it brings to the Cardano ecosystem. By investing in this project, the Cardano community gains a pioneering platform that demonstrates the power of blockchain in scientific research, drives adoption, and fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration. The transparent and well-planned budget ensures that every ADA spent contributes directly to these goals, providing excellent value for money.