APRENDO & Cardano: Bridging Digital Divides Empowering Latam's Underprivileged Communities

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Tom Grau Baena

[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)

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)

We will deploy in-person Cardano education, quests, and environmental activities across 10 Latin American countries, expanding Cardano's reach and impact in vulnerable communities.

[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 under a creative commons CC BY-NC-SA license.

[METADATA] SDG rating

Objective 10: Reduce inequality within and among countries. Especially section 10.1 ( income growth of the bottom 40 per cent of the population) and 10.2 ( empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all).

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Introduction to APRENDO (formerly Proof of Integrity)

APRENDO 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 is a cycle of 4 in-person workshops with theoretical and practical content, where participants learn about personal finance, blockchain technology, and artificial intelligence through self-organized learning pedagogical strategies.

Upon completing the program, graduates become part of #comunidadAPRENDO, our dynamic online postgraduate community. This community plays a vital role in fostering social inclusion and facilitating ongoing personal and professional development. To enhance engagement and enrich the learning experience, #comunidadAPRENDO utilizes gamification techniques and quests, making the educational process more interactive and impactful. These strategies deepen participants' understanding and promote the practical application of skills in various settings.

#APRENDOcripto's Impact

#APRENDOcripto has already made a significant impact:

• 635 Graduates
• 28 Venues across 4 Countries (Argentina, Bolivia, Honduras & Uruguay)
• 36 Editions Conducted
• 48% Women’s Participation

As we continue through 2024, APRENDO is actively expanding its reach, with plans to engage communities in 15 different Latin American countries by year's end.

Solution Overview: A Comprehensive Four-Part Strategy

APRENDO tackles the significant gap in blockchain education and hands-on experience with Cardano in Latin America, specifically targeting underprivileged communities. To effectively bridge this educational divide and empower these communities, we have developed a strategic four-part approach:

• Part 1: Integrating Cardano into #APRENDOcripto Curriculum - This initiative enhances our curriculum with dedicated Cardano modules, ensuring participants receive foundational and advanced insights into blockchain technology.
• Part 2: Expanding #comunidadAPRENDO Through Cardano-Specific Quests - We leverage quest-based learning to provide practical, hands-on experiences with Cardano’s technology, helping participants apply their knowledge in tangible settings.
• Part 3: Leveraging Cardano for Environmental Sustainability - By collaborating with sustainability projects within the Cardano ecosystem, we integrate environmental consciousness into our blockchain education, linking digital skills with sustainable actions.
• Part 4: Cardano Open Project Showcases - Our online showcases highlight innovative projects within the Cardano ecosystem, inspiring participants and connecting them with broader blockchain community initiatives.

Each element of this strategy not only enhances knowledge but also fosters practical engagement, ensuring that participants are equipped to contribute to and benefit from the digital economy. This approach aims to promote socio-economic empowerment and increase digital inclusivity across Latin America.

Part 1: Integrating Cardano into #APRENDOcripto Curriculum

In an effort to broaden our educational scope, #APRENDOcripto will integrate dedicated Cardano modules into the curriculum. This new addition is designed to furnish students with a foundational understanding of Cardano’s principles, history and ecosystem. Enhancing their learning journey and preparing them for practical post-course applications.

Scheduled rollout:

From August to December 2024, we will roll out 20 editions of #APRENDOcripto across 10 countries in Latin America. This initiative is set to impact over 400 students from underserved communities, providing them with valuable Cardano insights through in-person sessions tailored to their local environments.

Curriculum Details:

The Cardano content within the #APRENDOcripto curriculum will be accessible and designed for beginners, and will introduce key concepts in a straightforward manner:

• What is Cardano?
• Explanation of what Cardano is and why it matters in the blockchain space.
• Overview of how Cardano differs from other blockchain technologies, focusing on its design to be secure, sustainable, and scalable.
• Cardano's Practical Use Cases:
• Discussion on how Cardano can be used in real-world applications.
• Examples of successful projects built on Cardano, emphasizing its capabilities and adaptability.

Part 2: Expanding #comunidadAPRENDO Through Cardano-Specific Quests

Expanding Practical Engagement

Our #comunidadAPRENDO initiative has successfully implemented a quest-based learning framework, currently featuring seven active learning challenges (quests) on our Discord server. These quests have provided participants with hands-on experience in navigating the blockchain ecosystem in a risk-free environment. Each quest is meticulously managed to ensure effective incentive distribution and participant engagement.

With the support of the broader Cardano community and through this proposal to Project Catalyst, we are actively seeking funding to significantly expand our practical engagements focused specifically on the Cardano ecosystem. Although the first of our five Cardano-specific quests has already commenced with generous funding from the Hosky Token project (See Announcement), we are seeking additional financial support to fully develop and implement all five quests. 

This comprehensive initiative aims to deeply integrate Cardano technology within our community. Our quest initiatives are transparently detailed on our Notion page, where we invite community contributions and collaborations to realize these educational opportunities.

Cardano Quests: A Specialized Learning Pathway

Building on the dynamic learning environment of #comunidadAPRENDO, we are introducing a specialized Cardano track. This new track will offer practical, hands-on experiences using Cardano’s technology. Over the next six months, we plan to engage 700 members of the #comunidadAPRENDO in this track, anticipating that approximately 100 members will complete all five quests, resulting in a total of 500 completed quests. The structured pathway for the Cardano track includes:

1. Wallet Setup and Test Transactions in Cardano: Participants set up and secure their own Cardano wallet, then execute transactions using ADA on Cardano’s testnet. This quest provides a practical understanding of blockchain operations and digital asset management in a controlled, risk-free environment.
2. NFT Creation on Cardano: Participants learn the complete process of designing and minting their own NFTs on Cardano. This quest covers each step from initial concept to final minting, demonstrating the integration of creativity with blockchain technology.
3. Staking Strategies in Cardano: Participants explore various staking projects within the Cardano ecosystem, select one that aligns with their interests, and learn practical staking techniques to contribute to network security and earn rewards.
4. Exploring DEFI in Cardano: Participants will engage hands-on by conducting a swap transaction, setting limit orders, and implementing a dollar-cost averaging strategy within various DeFi applications. Through these activities, they will learn to manage financial transactions and investments safely, gaining essential skills for navigating and maximizing the DeFi ecosystem.
5. Governance in Cardano: Participants will first watch a dynamic lecture on Cardano's governance mechanisms, followed by a quiz to reinforce key concepts learned. The quest concludes with a hands-on exercise where participants craft their own mock governance proposals, which they will then share and discuss in our community forum. 

Rewards and Real-World Application

To motivate and reward active participation, members completing each quest will receive incentives in ADA, linking educational achievements with real-world applications and benefits. These rewards not only encourage continued engagement but also provide practical experience in managing digital assets within the Cardano ecosystem. Importantly, this financial support can be particularly beneficial for our participants who come from contexts of vulnerability, helping to alleviate some economic pressures and empowering them through financial inclusion in the digital economy.

Details on the distribution of ADA rewards are outlined in the "Budget & Costs" section of this proposal, ensuring transparency and accountability in how these funds are allocated.

Part 3: Leveraging Cardano for Environmental Sustainability

As part of our ongoing efforts to integrate practical blockchain applications with social and environmental initiatives, APRENDO will collaborate with sustainability projects within the Cardano ecosystem. These projects are dedicated to enhancing environmental awareness and action through blockchain technology, rewarding participants with Cardano NFTs for their contributions to sustainability initiatives.

Post-Course Environmental Initiatives

Upon completion of selected editions of the #APRENDOcripto program, we will engage with Cardano-based sustainability projects to conduct environmental activities tailored to the specific needs of those regions. These initiatives, which could include tree planting, local green space maintenance, and other sustainability actions, are designed to extend the impact of the curriculum by directly engaging participants in meaningful environmental actions.

Recognition through NFTs on Cardano

To recognize and validate the contributions of participants in these environmental initiatives, our Cardano ecosystem partners will mint special NFTs on the Cardano blockchain. These NFTs serve as more than digital acknowledgments of the participants' efforts and achievements; they are part of a collectible series that offers participants the opportunity to trade or sell, thus enhancing their engagement and appreciation of sustainability efforts.

This approach not only rewards participants but also broadens their understanding of the economic potentials of blockchain technology. By making these NFTs exchangeable, we provide an additional incentive for participation while emphasizing the primary goal of fostering meaningful environmental actions. Integrating these initiatives into APRENDO helps demonstrate the tangible benefits of blockchain technology beyond its financial applications, encouraging participants to continue engaging in activities that have a positive impact on their communities and the environment.

Limited Scope and Focused Impact

It is important to note that this environmental initiative is planned for implementation in only five specific editions of the #APRENDOcripto program. This selective approach allows us to focus our resources on editions that are optimally positioned to maximize both educational and environmental impacts. By concentrating on these targeted initiatives, we ensure a deeper and more meaningful engagement with local ecosystems and effectively leverage blockchain technology within these communities.

Part 4: Cardano Open Project Showcases

Alongside the other initiatives, we plan to host 6 online "Cardano Open Project Showcases." These showcases 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 wider audience and #comunidadAPRENDO members opportunities 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.

Conclusion: Empowering Communities with Targeted Cardano Education

To address the critical shortage of Cardano-specific education and practical experience in Latin America's underprivileged areas, each part of APRENDO's strategy is designed to meet distinct needs.

This focused approach not only enhances knowledge but also equips participants to use Cardano for economic and community development, promoting socio-economic empowerment and digital inclusivity across the region.

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

Our project will significantly enhance the Cardano community by fostering widespread blockchain education and increasing Cardano adoption among underprivileged communities in Latin America. By integrating Cardano into various educational initiatives, we not only raise awareness and understanding of Cardano but also promote its practical applications, contributing to a more diverse, educated, and inclusive Cardano ecosystem. 

Expanding Cardano's reach into these communities introduces a new, vibrant demographic into the Cardano ecosystem, enriching the network with diverse perspectives and use cases which can lead to innovative developments and increased stability of the network.

Additionally, our commitment to in-person training ensures that participants receive direct, hands-on learning experiences, which are crucial for deeply engaging and effectively educating individuals in areas with limited digital infrastructure.

How we will measure impact:

Quantitative Measures:

• Enrollment and Completion Rates: Tracking the number of participants who enroll in and complete the #APRENDOcripto workshops.
• Quest Completion: Monitoring the number of quests completed within the Cardano track.
• Environmental NFT Issuance: Counting the number of NFTs minted as rewards for environmental actions, reflecting participant engagement and contribution.

Qualitative Measures:

• Participant Feedback: Collecting and analyzing participant feedback through surveys and interviews to assess satisfaction and personal growth.
• Community Engagement: Evaluating the depth of interaction and collaboration within #comunidadAPRENDO and during the Cardano Open Project Showcases.

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

• Community Engagement: Success stories and learnings will be shared within the #comunidadAPRENDO and extended to broader communities through social media and community forums.
• Collaborations and Partnerships: Findings and insights will be shared with organizations to foster collaborations and partnerships, enhancing the reach and impact of the project.
• 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?

APRENDOs 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 635 individuals from #APRENDOcripto, effective conduct of 36 in-person educational sessions across 28 venues, and extending our reach to participants in 4 different countries (Argentina, Uruguay, Honduras & Bolivia).

Looking forward, our 2024 projections are ambitious and reflect our commitment to expanding our impact. We aim to graduate over 900 individuals, conduct programs in more than 30 venues, and extend our reach to 15 Latin American countries across 43 editions. This expansion plan underscores our capability and readiness to scale our initiatives enhancing our established alumni community.

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, APRENDO's established experience in blockchain education, combined with our ambitious expansion plans for this 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?

Initiation and Execution of Five #APRENDOcripto Programs

Milestone Achievement Date: August 31, 2024

Milestone Funding Amount: 10,000 ADA

Outputs: Completion of five #APRENDOcripto programs, with detailed reports for each.

Acceptance Criteria:

• All five programs are conducted in-person and completed by the specified date.

Evidence:

• Detailed completion reports for each #APRENDOcripto program.
• Photographs from the workshops demonstrating participant engagement and workshop activities.

Completion of Five Additional #APRENDOcripto Programs

Milestone Achievement Date: September 30, 2024

Milestone Funding Amount: 10,000 ADA

Outputs: Completion of five additional #APRENDOcripto programs, with detailed reports for each.

Acceptance Criteria:

• All five programs are conducted in-person and completed by the specified date.

Evidence:

• Detailed completion reports for each #APRENDOcripto program.
• Photographs from the workshops demonstrating participant engagement and workshop activities.

Successful Completion of 250 Cardano Quests

Milestone Achievement Date: October 31, 2024

Milestone Funding Amount: 20,000 ADA

Outputs: Documented evidence of 250 successfully completed Cardano Quests by #comunidadAPRENDO members.

Acceptance Criteria:

• Completion of 250 distinct Cardano Quests by individual members of #comunidadAPRENDO.
• Each quest must be verified for completion according to the specified quest guidelines.

Evidence:

• Detailed completion reports for each quest, including participant name, quest details, and completion date.
• Blockchain transaction records showing the issuance of ADA incentives for each completed quest.

Completion of Five Additional #APRENDOcripto Programs

Milestone Achievement Date: October 31, 2024

Milestone Funding Amount: 10,000 ADA

Outputs: Completion of five additional #APRENDOcripto programs, with detailed reports for each.

Acceptance Criteria:

• All five programs are conducted in-person and completed by the specified date.

Evidence:

• Detailed completion reports for each #APRENDOcripto program.
• Photographs from the workshops demonstrating participant engagement and workshop activities.

Completion of Five Additional #APRENDOcripto Programs

Milestone Achievement Date: November 30, 2024

Milestone Funding Amount: 10,000 ADA

Outputs: Completion of five additional #APRENDOcripto programs, with detailed reports for each.

Acceptance Criteria:

• All five programs are conducted in-person and completed by the specified date.

Evidence:

• Detailed completion reports for each #APRENDOcripto program.
• Photographs from the workshops demonstrating participant engagement and workshop activities.

Completion of All Cardano Quests and Execution of Cardano Open Project Showcases.

Milestone Achievement Date: December 31, 2024

Milestone Funding Amount: 15,000 ADA 

Outputs:

• Documented evidence of the final 250 successfully completed Cardano Quests by #comunidadAPRENDO members, totaling 500 quests.
• Successful hosting of six online Cardano Open Project Showcases.

Acceptance Criteria:

• Completion of the remaining 250 distinct Cardano Quests by individual members of #comunidadAPRENDO, ensuring that all 500 quests outlined in the project objectives are completed.
• Execution of six Cardano Open Project Showcases, conducted online, with recordings made available.

Evidence:

• Detailed completion reports for each quest, including participant name, quest details, and completion date.
• Blockchain transaction records showing the issuance of ADA incentives for each completed quest.
• Recordings of the six online showcase events

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

Tom Grau Baena - Executive Director of APRENDO

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: Tom directs the strategic execution of APRENDO’s initiatives, ensuring that the organization's efforts to integrate Cardano education align with our broader mission to enhance digital inclusivity in Latin America. His oversight is vital in coordinating the development and implementation of APRENDO’s four-part strategy, from curriculum integration to community engagement through Cardano technology.

Diego Gil - Head of #APRENDOcripto

Background: Architect with a 10 years experience in social projects. Specialist in the design and execution of community projects. Faithful believer that a fair and inclusive society is possible.

Role: Diego is pivotal in integrating Cardano into the #APRENDOcripto curriculum, overseeing the adaptation and delivery of this specialized content. As the program's operational leader, he ensures that all aspects—from curriculum design to the organization of in-person workshops—align with the strategic goal of enhancing blockchain education through Cardano. His meticulous management helps ensure that the curriculum is effectively imparted, making foundational and advanced blockchain concepts accessible to underprivileged communities across Latin America.

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: Sofía plays a crucial role in APRENDO’s outreach efforts, focusing on engaging with vulnerable populations and building robust relationships with community leaders to facilitate the #APRENDOcripto programs. She is responsible for guiding and supporting our local representatives in each country as they identify and partner with social organizations and schools. These partnerships are essential for delivering our courses effectively across diverse regions. Sofía’s expertise in community mobilization and her strategic approach to partnership development ensure that our educational initiatives are accessible to those most in need, making a significant impact in empowering underprivileged communities through blockchain education.

Belén Arostegui - Head of #comunidadAPRENDO

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

Background: Marketing and Communication Professional (USAL), with a Master's in Innovation and Sustainability (EADA). Extensive background in the private sector with experience in developing strategies, managing cross-sector and international projects, and leading teams. A lover of collaborative work and, above all, projects that seek root transformation to generate sustainable, impactful changes in society and the planet.

Role: Belén spearheads the #comunidadAPRENDO, focusing on integrating graduates into ongoing Cardano projects and quests. She is instrumental in driving participant engagement with Part 2's Cardano Quests, providing hands-on, practical experiences that deepen graduates' understanding of Cardano’s technology. Additionally, Belén plays a crucial role in linking these educational activities to environmental sustainability initiatives within the Cardano ecosystem. Her leadership fosters a collaborative environment where community members not only learn from but also contribute to real-world projects, enhancing their skills while promoting environmental awareness and action.

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 the Quests. His role is crucial in fostering a strong, supportive network that enhances the effectiveness and reach of this proposal.

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 with Nico D. 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.

Nico D - Communications Officer and Community Manager

Twitter: https://twitter.com/_nicod_

Background: Social Media and Content Creation Specialist. With over 10 years of experience in social media communication and content creation, Nico is deeply passionate about leveraging blockchain and web3 tools for positive impact. Currently, he is actively involved in DAOs and Web3 communities, collaborating with peers to foster innovative initiatives and encourage the adoption of decentralized technologies.

Role: Nico D orchestrates all communications and manages community interactions for APRENDO, playing a crucial role in amplifying our outreach and engagement through social media and other digital platforms. He is responsible for crafting compelling content, managing online discussions, and maintaining a vibrant online presence that connects with and inspires our audience. Additionally, Nico will co-lead the organization of the Cardano Open Project Showcases alongside Nicola, coordinating these events to ensure they effectively highlight innovative projects within the Cardano ecosystem. His expertise in communications and community management is vital for promoting the showcases, engaging participants, and enhancing the visibility of Cardano's impact on community development.

Gonzalo Suárez: Visual Communication Strategist

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

Background: Gonzalo is a graphic designer with a passion for using visual communication to advance strategic visions, innovation, and commitment. He is currently pursuing a Master's in Public Policy at Di Tella University. His expertise in graphic design and strategic communication plays a crucial role in effectively conveying complex blockchain concepts to a broader audience, enhancing the educational impact of the APRENDO initiatives.

Role: As the Visual Communication Strategist for APRENDO, Gonzalo is tasked with designing and producing all visual materials related to the integration of Cardano content within the #APRENDOcripto workshops. His responsibility is to ensure that these materials are not only informative but also visually appealing and easy to understand, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of the educational experience offered by APRENDO.

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

Below is a detailed cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources:

1. Operational Costs

20 #APRENDOcripto editions - 30,000 ADA

Each edition of the #APRENDOcripto program is allocated a budget of 1,500 ADA (totalling 30,000 ADA for 20 editions), designed to cover critical aspects necessary for the successful execution of the program. Costs associated with roles are prorated per edition, ensuring efficient allocation of resources without committing full salary costs to any single edition. 

Here is the detailed allocation of the 1,500 ADA budget for each edition:

• Head of #APRENDOcripto: Manages overall program direction, ensuring alignment with educational objectives.
• Head of Community Outreach: Engages with communities to foster relationships and support participant recruitment.
• Training Coordinator: Ensures all training content is up to standard and that facilitators are effectively prepared.
• Logistics Coordinator: Manages the practical aspects of running each program edition smoothly.
• Instructor Compensation: Rewards instructors for their commitment and teaching efforts during the program.
• Instructor Training: Prepares facilitators with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver the curriculum effectively.
• Participant Refreshments: Provides snacks during sessions to maintain participant comfort and focus.
• Participant Incentives: Includes motivational items or rewards to enhance participant engagement.
• Educational Materials: Funds the production of teaching aids, including photocopies and diplomas for graduates.

#comunidadAPRENDO: Community Support and Engagement - 20,000 ADA

The Community Support and Engagement budget for #comunidadAPRENDO is vital for fostering a supportive and active community, which is central to the success of this proposal. This budget allocates 20,000 ADA over six months, resulting in approximately 3,333 ADA per month to support critical roles that enhance participant engagement and foster a nurturing learning environment.

The roles funded under this monthly allocation of 3,333 ADA include:

• Head of #comunidadAPRENDO:  Spearheads the #comunidadAPRENDO, focusing on integrating graduates into ongoing Cardano projects and quests. She is instrumental in driving participant engagement with Part 2's Cardano Quests, providing hands-on, practical experiences that deepen graduates' understanding of Cardano’s technology. Additionally, she plays a crucial role in linking these educational activities to environmental sustainability initiatives within the Cardano ecosystem. Her leadership fosters a collaborative environment where community members not only learn from but also contribute to real-world projects, enhancing their skills while promoting environmental awareness and action.
• Global Community Engagement Lead: 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 the Quests. His role is crucial in fostering a strong, supportive network that enhances the effectiveness and reach of this proposal.
• #comunidadAPRENDO Cardano Liaison: 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.

Marketing and Promotion Budget - 5,000 ADA

The Marketing and Promotion budget for #APRENDOcripto and #comunidadAPRENDO is set at 5,000 ADA, allocated to increase the visibility and engagement of these initiatives. This investment is crucial for expanding our reach and ensuring active participation, which are key to the success of the project. The monthly allocation facilitates ongoing marketing and community engagement activities.

Roles funded under this monthly allocation of 833 ADA include:

• Communications Officer and Community Manager:  Manages overall communications and community engagement efforts. Tasks include crafting and disseminating engaging content across various platforms, managing community interactions, and ensuring that communications strategies effectively highlight the unique aspects of the APRENDO initiatives.
• Visual Communication Strategist:  Designs and produces all visual materials related to the integration of Cardano content within the #APRENDOcripto workshops. His responsibility is to ensure that these materials are not only informative but also visually appealing and easy to understand, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of the educational experience offered by APRENDO.

2. Quest Rewards - 20,000 ADA:

A total of 20,000 ADA is allocated for quest rewards for #comunidadAPRENDO participants and are distributed as follows:

• Wallet Setup and Test Transactions in Cardano: 2,500 ADA for 100 quests.
• NFT Creation on Cardano: 3,500 ADA for 100 quests.
• Staking Strategies in Cardano: 4,000 ADA for 100 quests.
• Exploring DEFI in Cardano: 4,000 ADA for 100 quests.
• Governance in Cardano: 6,000 ADA for 100 quests.

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

The budgeting for the proposal has been meticulously structured to ensure maximum efficiency and value for the Cardano ecosystem. Here’s how the project costs represent value for money:

Cost Effectiveness:

• Regional Wage Considerations: The salaries and operational costs are aligned with the average wages in the region, ensuring that the project is economically feasible while providing fair compensation to local staff. This approach not only supports local economies but also maintains cost efficiency for the project.
• Industry Standards: The budget for educational materials, technology integration, and community management is based on typical rates for these services in the educational and technology sectors within Latin America. This ensures that spending is in line with industry standards while achieving high-quality delivery.

Value to the Cardano Community:

• Expanding Cardano's Reach: By deploying in-person Cardano education across 10 Latin American countries, our initiative directly engages previously underrepresented communities, significantly increasing the user base and diversifying the Cardano ecosystem. This expansion not only enhances the ecosystem's resilience and global relevance but also aligns with Cardano's commitment to broadening access and promoting equity.
• Promoting Cardano's Mission: This project exemplifies Cardano’s dedication to using technology for social good. It showcases the platform's leadership in advancing financial and social inclusion by providing practical blockchain skills and opportunities in areas that lack traditional banking and technological infrastructure. Such initiatives attract attention, investment, and development from entities that value technology's potential to drive positive change, boosting Cardano's stature within the global blockchain community.
• Enhancing Engagement and Utility: Through the integration of Cardano-based education and projects within our #APRENDOcripto workshops and #comunidadAPRENDO activities, this initiative fosters deep community engagement. By incorporating quest-based learning that features practical, hands-on experiences with Cardano’s technology, such as staking strategies and governance models, the project not only educates but also actively involves participants in the Cardano ecosystem. This practical engagement is expected to facilitate a better understanding and increase adoption of Cardano, thereby driving transaction volume and demonstrating long-term benefits for both users and the broader Cardano network.

Strategic Allocation of Resources:

• Direct Impact on Education: The funds are strategically allocated to directly impact participants’ learning and practical experience with Cardano. This includes developing and delivering a curriculum that integrates Cardano technology, practical quests that use Cardano’s blockchain, and sustainability projects facilitated by Cardano’s capabilities.
• Community Engagement and Sustainability: A significant portion of the budget is dedicated to fostering a sustainable community through #comunidadAPRENDO and supporting environmental initiatives, which enhances the long-term engagement and retention of community members.

Leveraging Partnerships:

• Collaborations with local and international organizations enhance the value gained from the funding by bringing additional resources and expertise into the project. These partnerships help stretch the project’s impact further than the initial financial investment might suggest.

Transparency and Reporting:

• The project is committed to high levels of transparency and regular reporting, ensuring that stakeholders can see how funds are used and the impacts they generate. This accountability builds trust and demonstrates the direct benefits of the investment into the project.

This carefully budgeted proposal maximizes every ADA to enrich the Cardano community by directly enhancing blockchain education and engagement in underserved regions. By strategically investing in comprehensive educational content, community-driven initiatives, and robust partnerships, the project promises substantial and sustained socio-economic impact, making it an exemplary model of value for money within the ecosystem.