Building the Future: Partnering to Create Chile's Leading Blockchain Lab

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

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

[GENERAL] Co-proposers and additional applicants

Iván Fredes is a Mechanical Engineer with a Master's degree in Management and Technological Entrepreneurship from UAI. He has extensive experience in laboratory management, asset management, infrastructure setup, and information gathering for projects.

Ivan's Linkedin

[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)

Establish academic collaboration between UAI in Chile & UTN in Argentina. Create blockchain R&D center, connecting both with Cardano node. Share knowledge on Cardano & E-UTxO model.

[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.”

Yes, our project has a dependency on the availability and support of physical space at UAI for setting up the blockchain laboratory. This collaboration with UAI ensures that we have the necessary infrastructure and resources to establish a state-of-the-art facility for hands-on training and research in blockchain technology, specifically tailored to Cardano.

[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

Yes full open source

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

We propose the establishment of a Blockchain Education Center in collaboration with Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez (UAI) in Chile. This initiative aims to address the current gap in accessible education and practical resources in blockchain technology, with a specific focus on Cardano.

What sets our solution apart is the partnership with UAI, a prestigious private university known for its strong emphasis on business and technology. This collaboration ensures that our project will have a significant impact by providing top-tier education and practical training opportunities to individuals interested in blockchain and Cardano. Collaborating with the blockchain laboratory in UTN (Buenos Aires) (ALBA: ADA Labs for Blockchain Applications).

Our initiative welcomes a diverse array of individuals, including students, developers, entrepreneurs, and professionals, all united by their shared enthusiasm for advancing their skills in blockchain technology. Through the Blockchain Education Center, we offer not only hands-on training, structured courses, and access to a dedicated physical laboratory but also a vibrant community atmosphere. We believe in fostering traction within the student community, encouraging a fun and collaborative environment where ideas can flourish and connections can be made. This blend of practical experience and theoretical knowledge not only equips participants with the skills necessary for effective Cardano development and operation but also lays the foundation for a dynamic network of individuals driving research and development in Cardano technology.

In assessing our impact, we will meticulously track key metrics including participant enrollment, project outcomes, and the level of community engagement fostered through a range of activities such as events, workshops, and hackathons. Moreover, we will evaluate the adoption and utilization of Cardano by participants, spotlighting the tangible contributions to the Cardano ecosystem.

Our initiative serves as a catalyst for Cardano's growth by nurturing a vibrant developer community, fostering innovation, and driving widespread adoption. By aligning with Cardano's mission to promote education and accessibility in blockchain technology, we are paving the way for societal and economic transformation on both local and global scales.

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

Our proposed solution addresses the challenge of lack accessibility to blockchain education and practical resources within the Cardano ecosystem in Spanish. By establishing the Blockchain Education Center in collaboration with UAI, we bring several benefits to the Cardano ecosystem.

To begin with, we will engage with students, teachers of UAI, and other universities, entrepreneurs, and professionals to ensure a successful onboarding experience into the Cardano ecosystem. Participants will have the opportunity to experience Cardano nodes hands-on, take courses, and conduct research in the laboratory, equipping them with the skills and experience needed for Cardano infrastructure and development.

Establishing a relationship with ALBA, the blockchain laboratory in Argentina, will expand the presence of the Cardano ecosystem in the continent and academia, reaching a wider audience while maintaining a scientific approach. By leveraging their materials and sharing experiences, we can enhance the learning process.

Enhancing the learning experience about Cardano within an educational setting will provide valuable insights into the onboarding process, enriching our understanding through diverse learning experiences.

This initiative will foster the development as an example, smart contracts, SDKs, protocols, and real-world use cases of Cardano technology, thereby increasing opportunities for innovation and adoption.

[CAPABILITY & FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability? How do you intend to validate if your approach is feasible?

Our capability to deliver projects with high levels of trust and accountability is well-established through a series of concrete achievements and experiences:

1. Participation in Cardano Hackathon: Your involvement in the first Cardano Hackathon in Buenos Aires in 2022 demonstrates your proactive engagement within the blockchain community. By broadcasting the event live and producing digital content, you showcased your ability to effectively communicate and document important industry events.
2. Creation of Blockchain Course: Developing the first blockchain course at the Master's degree level in Chile in 2023 highlights your commitment to education and knowledge dissemination. Focusing on the benefits of the E-UTxO model indicates your expertise in specific blockchain technologies and their practical applications.
3. Pioneer Pool and Content Creation: As pioneers in the region, your continuous contribution to the Cardano community for four years, including Spanish content creation and interviews with prominent industry players, underscores your dedication to fostering community growth and knowledge sharing.
4. Hosted CIP 1694 Workshop: Hosting a workshop for the Spanish-speaking community further demonstrates your leadership and initiative in facilitating discussions and collaborations within the blockchain ecosystem.

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

Milestone 1

Acquire necessary equipment and resources

Set up network infrastructure and security for the lab

Prepare the dedicated space for the laboratory and test the Cardano node

Timeline: 2 months

Success criteria: Successful acquisition of equipment and resources, completion of laboratory setup, and correct setup and testing of the Cardano node.

Cost: 15,000

Milestone 2

Develop a comprehensive blockchain educational program and course

Design a curriculum for different groups (teachers, students, and developers)

Create course materials, including lectures, assignments, and practical exercises

Collaborate with UAI to integrate blockchain education into existing programs

Timeline: 3 months

Success criteria: Completed curriculum design and educational materials ready for use

Projected cost: 15,000

Milestone 3

Foster innovation through practical exercises and networking

Provide support for participants to understand and develop blockchain projects

Organize events to promote innovation and collaboration

Facilitate mentorship and networking opportunities for participants

Timeline: 2 months

Success criteria: Successful completion of blockchain projects and positive feedback from participants

Projected cost: 10,000

Our project management strategy will blend agile methodologies with active stakeholder engagement. We will conduct regular meetings with the project team to monitor progress, address any challenges, and ensure alignment with the project objectives. The project manager will oversee the implementation, track milestones, and maintain open communication with stakeholders, including UAI and the Cardano community.

These milestones offer a clear roadmap for the project, ensuring measurable progress at key stages. They will serve as evidence of project advancement and will be reported regularly to the community and Cardano Catalyst, ensuring transparency and accountability.

The projected costs for each milestone are based on our research and initial budget estimates. Actual costs may vary due to factors such as procurement prices, labor costs, and unforeseen circumstances.

A detailed statement of milestones confirming these details will be submitted as required for funded proposals.

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

Project Lead:

• Stake Pool Operator (SPO) at Chile Stake Po
• LinkedIn: Rodrigo Oyarzun
• Role: Provides expertise in managing blockchain infrastructure for the Cardano network and offering staking services globally.
• Responsibilities: Strategic direction, technical guidance, and educational content creation.

Background:

The project lead has extensive experience as an instructor, specializing in blockchain technology. They have taught a fundamental course at the University Adolfo Ibáñez (UAI) focusing on the differences between centralized and decentralized systems, Smart Contracts, and Blockchain technology. This experience underscores their commitment to blockchain education and fostering innovation within the Latin American ecosystem.

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

Budget breakdown:

Milestone 1: Acquire necessary equipment and resources

• Equipment procurement: 10,000
• Network infrastructure setup: 2,000
• Security measures implementation: 2,000
• Lab space preparation and testing: 1,000

Total cost: 15,000

Milestone 2: Develop blockchain educational program

• Curriculum design: 5,000
• Course material creation: 5,000
• Integration with UAI: 5,000

Total cost: 15,000

Milestone 3: Foster innovation and networking

• Participant support and project development: 5,000
• Events organization: 3,000
• Mentorship and networking facilitation: 2,000

Total cost: 10,000

Additional Budget Elements

• Publicity/marketing/community engagement: $5,000
• Project management: 3,000
• Documentation: 2,000
• Reporting back to the community: 2,000
• Unforseen events: 3,000

Total: 55,000

Third-party resources or services may include:

• Equipment vendors for laboratory setup
• Software licenses for educational tools or specialized software
• Professional services for legal and accounting requirements
• Industry experts for guest lectures and panel discussions
• Event management services for workshops and conferences

If the project cost exceeds the funding request, alternative sources of funding such as collaborations, sponsorships, or grants will be actively sought. It is the responsibility of the project team to manage the funds provided appropriately throughout the project's duration.

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

The cost of our project presents exceptional value for the Cardano ecosystem, especially with our collaboration with UAI. Here's how our project budget ensures optimal value:

Cost-Effectiveness: Our meticulously crafted budget accurately reflects the costs of establishing an advanced blockchain laboratory, designing comprehensive educational programs, fostering innovation, and cultivating collaboration with the Cardano community. We've ensured that each expense, from equipment procurement to curriculum development, is meticulously considered and aligned with industry standards.

Proportional to Value: The costs are directly proportional to the significant outcomes and benefits our project promises to deliver to the Cardano ecosystem. By partnering with UAI, we're poised to create a cutting-edge blockchain education hub, empower participants with essential skills, drive innovation, and deepen community engagement. The value generated through enhanced knowledge, skill-building, and practical applications within the Cardano community substantiates the investment.

Consideration of Market Rates: We've rigorously evaluated market rates for various services, including educational program development, event organization, and technical expertise. By benchmarking against industry standards, we've devised a budget that strikes a delicate balance between cost-efficiency and quality, ensuring that every dollar spent maximizes impact and yields tangible results.

Leveraging Partnerships: Our collaboration with UAI is pivotal in optimizing costs and maximizing value. Through this strategic partnership, we gain access to UAI's resources, expertise, and infrastructure at favorable rates, enabling us to establish a world-class blockchain laboratory without compromising quality. This strategic alliance not only minimizes costs but also fosters long-term sustainability and shared goals, amplifying the overall value proposition for the Cardano ecosystem.

By meticulously considering these factors and leveraging our partnership with UAI, we're confident that our proposed budget offers unparalleled value for the Cardano ecosystem. Our objective is to deliver transformative outcomes, empower individuals and organizations, and catalyze widespread adoption of blockchain technology within the Cardano community, all while ensuring prudent resource utilization and long-term sustainability.