DRMZ Academy: Empowering Local Communities with Web3

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Rodrigo Gomez

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

Entity (Not Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Co-proposers and additional applicants

Drew Gaines - Developer / Goat Tribe

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

8

[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 launch tailored educational workshops and presentations in San Diego & Los Angeles to develop local expertise in Cardano, bridging the gap in blockchain literacy and fostering innovation.

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

No

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

No dependencies

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

Yes

[GENERAL] Please provide here more information on the open source status of your project outputs

Open Source Elements:

• Educational Materials: All documentation, workshop outlines, and multimedia resources will be released under CC BY-SA 4.0.

For the DRMZ Web3 / DRMZ Academy project, we plan to make our educational materials available under an open-source license: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (CC BY-SA 4.0), which allows others to remix, tweak, and build upon our work, even for commercial purposes, as long as they credit DRMZ Web3 / DRMZ Academy and license their new creations under the identical terms.

This approach will enable community contributions, ensure transparency, and allow others to use, modify, and distribute our resources in a manner that benefits the broader Cardano community while providing appropriate credit back to DRMZ Web3 / DRMZ Academy.

[METADATA] SDG rating

SDG 4: Quality Education

• Sub-goal: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

KPIs:

• Increase the number of individuals in San Diego & Los Angeles who receive practical, high-quality education on blockchain and AI technologies.
• Enhance the ability of students and professionals to apply blockchain technologies in real-world scenarios.

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

• Sub-goal: Promote sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.

KPIs:

• Expand job opportunities by equipping the workforce with the skills needed for high-demand tech jobs in the blockchain and AI sectors.
• Foster entrepreneurship through the development and deployment of innovative blockchain solutions.

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure

• Sub-goal: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and foster innovation.

KPIs:

• Increase the number of new technologies or innovations developed from workshop participants.
• Enhance the digital infrastructure of local communities by integrating advanced blockchain solutions.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

• Sub-goal: Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development.

KPIs:

• Establish partnerships with local educational institutions, businesses, and tech communities to promote widespread adoption of blockchain technology.
• Collaborate with international blockchain communities to share knowledge and resources.

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

For those looking for a short summary: DRMZ Web3 / DRMZ Academy is dedicated to providing web3 education to communities lacking awareness of the real-world applications currently being developed on blockchains like Cardano. Our focus is on bridging this literacy gap and directly empowering our local community with the knowledge to engage with and innovate in the blockchain space.

For those looking for more details, we wanted to address each question mentioned above directly:

Perception of the Problem:

Our community faces a critical lack of comprehensive education on web3 technologies, including blockchain and AI, which are pivotal for future socio-economic development. We perceive this not only as a gap in technical skills but as a broader issue of access to equitable and sustainable technology use. Cardano's platform, known for its low-energy consumption and peer-reviewed research, stands as an ideal subject for education due to its commitment to ethical technology deployment and governance. This aligns with our ethos of providing education that not only empowers but does so responsibly and sustainably.

Approach to the Solution:

We have chosen a hands-on educational approach, engaging participants directly with Cardano technology to address this problem. By hosting IRL meetups and integrating blockchain technology discussions with local businesses, we facilitate both theoretical learning and practical application. Rodrigo, with his background as a college professor and experience in integrating web3 into educational settings, leads this initiative. His expertise in generative AI and blockchain ensures that the workshops are not only informative but also cutting-edge, reflecting the latest developments and ethical considerations in the field.

Engagement Strategy:

Our project will primarily engage students, local entrepreneurs, and business leaders within the San Diego area. Through direct involvement in creating Cardano wallets and transacting with NFTs, participants will gain firsthand experience of blockchain. This practical engagement is complemented by theoretical learning, guided by Rodrigo’s expertise and the advanced educational tools provided by Work.Courses, enhancing the learning experience and ensuring retention and practical application of knowledge.

Demonstrating Impact:

The impact of our workshops will be demonstrated through pre- and post-workshop surveys to assess changes in understanding and competence in blockchain technology among participants. Additionally, we will track the adoption rate of blockchain technologies among local businesses participating in our workshops and monitor the creation and use of Cardano wallets as a direct measure of engagement and application.

Uniqueness and Benefits:

What sets our solution apart is the integration of cutting-edge, peer-reviewed blockchain technology with a focus on sustainable practices and governance, reflecting Cardano’s unique features. Our workshops are designed to be interactive and practical, making complex technologies accessible and usable for everyday business and personal finance. Beneficiaries include local students and business professionals who will gain the skills needed to navigate and innovate within the digital economy. This project supports Cardano’s mission by promoting its use and understanding, demonstrating its potential for addressing global challenges through local action.

This approach ensures that our workshops not only teach about blockchain but do so in a way that embodies the principles of sustainability and inclusivity that are central to Cardano’s philosophy.

Our goal is to build a well-informed community that is capable of leveraging Cardano to create innovative solutions to local and global challenges.

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

The success of our DRMZ Web3 / DRMZ Academy workshops will be measured through both quantitative and qualitative methods to ensure comprehensive evaluation and demonstration of value to the Cardano community.

Quantitative Measures:

• Participant Growth: Track the number of participants in each workshop, aiming for a steady increase throughout the series.
• Technology Adoption: Measure the number of new Cardano wallets created and track the use of ADA and NFTs among participants, indicating practical adoption of blockchain technology learned in workshops.
• Post-Workshop Surveys: Conduct surveys to assess improvements in participants' knowledge and skills regarding Cardano and blockchain technologies.

Qualitative Measures:

• Participant Feedback: Gather feedback through interviews or open-ended survey questions to gauge participant satisfaction and the practical utility of the knowledge gained.
• Case Studies: Develop case studies of businesses and entrepreneurs who successfully implement blockchain solutions based on the learning from the workshops.

The project will enrich the Cardano community by:

• Educating Future Developers and Users: By increasing blockchain literacy, we cultivate a larger, more skilled community ready to build on and use Cardano.
• Promoting Cardano’s Unique Features: Highlighting Cardano’s low energy use, high security, and scalable infrastructure through practical application and education.
• Fostering Local and Global Networks: Encouraging connections within local communities that can expand to global collaborations in the Cardano ecosystem.

Outputs and opportunities from the project will be shared through several channels to maximize reach and engagement:

• Open Source Materials: Educational materials and resources developed will be made available under an open-source license, accessible via GitHub and the project's website.
• Workshop Recordings and Webinars: Sessions will be recorded and hosted online for broader access, extending the learning opportunities beyond physical participants.
• Community and Social Media Engagement: Regular updates, insights, and success stories will be shared through our social media channels, newsletters, and community forums dedicated to Cardano enthusiasts and developers.
• Collaborations and Partnerships: Results and case studies will be presented at blockchain conferences and included in collaborative projects with educational institutions and tech communities.

[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?

We have no doubt that we are capable of delivering on the design, fascilitation of presentations, and workshops focused on Cardano from a variety of angles. Below is a breakdown of a few reasons why:

Project Delivery Capabilities:

1. Expert Leadership: The project is led by Rodrigo, a seasoned college professor and curriculum specialist known for his expertise in integrating emerging technologies into educational settings. His extensive involvement in the Cardano community as "Cardano Ministry" on Twitter Spaces is marked by his ability to foster open, critical, and constructive discussions.
2. Proven Track Record: Rodrigo has co-hosted several workshops focused on Cardano and CIP 1694 with Adam Dean, demonstrating his deep involvement and expertise in blockchain education and community engagement.
3. Community Engagement and Educational Impact: Through DRMZ Web3 / DRMZ Academy, Rodrigo has been pivotal in driving education on blockchain technologies, especially in Cardano, within the local community. His efforts have included engaging local businesses and educational institutions in adopting and understanding blockchain technologies.
4. Advanced Educational Infrastructure: Utilizing state-of-the-art educational tools provided by platforms like Work.Courses, Rodrigo enhances the delivery of high-quality, interactive learning experiences that are scalable and effective.

Financial Management and Trustworthiness:

1. Transparent Budgeting and Financial Audits: We adhere to rigorous standards for budget transparency and conduct regular third-party financial audits, ensuring that all funds are managed appropriately.
2. Grant and Fund Management Experience: Our team, led by Rodrigo, has substantial experience in managing academic grants and funding, ensuring compliance with financial and reporting requirements through established financial management systems.
3. Stakeholder Reporting and Milestone-Based Funding: We maintain transparency with regular updates and detailed reports to stakeholders. Using a milestone-based funding release ensures that financial resources are aligned with project progress and outcomes.
4. Reputation and Community Trust: The potential reputational damage from mismanaging funds makes us exceptionally vigilant in our financial practices. Our active role and established trust in the Cardano community underscore our commitment to upholding integrity in handling project funds and objectives. Nevermind Rodrigo's role within the community as an educator.

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

Milestone 1: Project Kick-off and Initial Workshop Preparation

Objective: Launch the project and prepare for the initial set of workshops.

A: Milestone Outputs

• Established project management team and roles.
• Partnerships with local educational institutions and businesses finalized.
• Workshop curricula developed using open-source materials.

B: Acceptance Criteria

• Project team fully operational with defined roles.
• At least three partnerships with local entities confirmed.

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Team organization chart and role descriptions.
• Signed partnership agreements.

Milestone 2: Conduct First Set of Workshops

Objective: Deliver the first series of interactive workshops on Cardano and blockchain basics.

A: Milestone Outputs

• Completion of three initial workshops focused on Cardano fundamentals.
• Collection of participant feedback for quality assessment.

B: Acceptance Criteria

• High participant satisfaction rate.
• Participants demonstrate a basic understanding of Cardano technology.

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Workshop attendance records.
• Feedback forms and summary report indicating satisfaction and learning outcomes.

Milestone 3: Advanced Workshops and Community Building

Objective: Implement advanced workshops and strengthen community engagement.

A: Milestone Outputs

• Advanced workshops on Cardano applications such as smart contracts & DePIN technologies conducted.
• Networking events to foster community engagement and collaborative projects.

B: Acceptance Criteria

• Successful delivery of advanced workshops with content tailored to feedback.
• Increased community engagement evidenced by collaborative project proposals.

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Detailed workshop reports and participant lists.
• Records of networking events and a list of collaborative projects initiated.

Milestone 4: Evaluation and Expansion

Objective: Evaluate the impact of the workshops and plan for scaling the initiative.

A: Milestone Outputs

• Comprehensive evaluation report of workshop impacts.
• Expansion plan for future workshops and online modules.

B: Acceptance Criteria

• Positive impact on participant knowledge and skills, with a plan validated by stakeholder feedback.
• Online module prototypes developed based on in-person workshop feedback.

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Impact evaluation report including pre- and post-workshop assessments.
• Documented expansion plan with stakeholder endorsements.

Final Milestone: Project Close-out Report and Video

Objective: Summarize the project achievements and lessons learned.

A: Milestone Outputs

• Comprehensive project close-out report.
• Video showcasing project highlights and stakeholder testimonials.

B: Acceptance Criteria

• Report comprehensively details project outcomes, challenges, and future recommendations.
• Video effectively communicates the project's success and participant experiences.

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Final project report available for public access.
• Video published on relevant platforms and shared with stakeholders.

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

Our team is well-equipped to deliver high-quality, impactful educational workshops that enhance the understanding and application of Cardano technology in the community.

Team Members and Their Roles:

Rodrigo - Project Lead, Educator, Curriculum Specialist

• Role: Rodrigo will oversee the entire project, ensuring that educational content aligns with the objectives of introducing and deepening understanding of Cardano and web3 technologies. He will also host and moderate the majority of the workshops.

Juliban / Chilli - Project Manager

• Role: Assist with management of overall project operations, ensuring that all aspects of the workshops are coordinated effectively and efficiently. Responsibilities include logistics, scheduling, and resource allocation, as well as monitoring project timelines and deliverables.

Drew Gaines - Technical Expert / Goat Tribe

• Role: Drew will handle the more technical aspects of the workshops, including detailed presentations on the UTXO and eUTXO models, accounting models, wallet technologies, and NFTs within the Cardano ecosystem.

Engagement and Capacity Planning:

• Both Rodrigo and Drew have been integral in previous educational initiatives and have committed to this project. They have the required expertise and have confirmed their availability to deliver the proposed workshops.
• Ongoing discussions are in place with experts from the Cardano community to feature as guest speakers, particularly for sessions that go beyond the basics into more complex topics like governance and Project Catalyst.

Recruitment Plans for Additional Team Members:

• Should the need arise for further expansion of the team, particularly for handling increased participant numbers or additional workshop locations, we will recruit educational facilitators with experience in blockchain technology.
• Technical support staff will also be considered for recruitment to assist with the practical aspects of workshops, such as setting up Cardano wallets and facilitating transactions.

Engagement with Technical Groups and Communities:

• We have active communications with members of the Cardano community through platforms like Discord and Telegram. These channels have been instrumental in refining the workshop content and ensuring ongoing technical support.
• Direct lines of communication are established with all team members and potential guest experts, ensuring readiness and commitment to the project.

Consent and Transparency:

• Consent has been obtained from all mentioned individuals to include their details in this proposal.
• All interactions and engagements are documented and will be available for 'proof of life' verifications by the Catalyst team as required.

Disclosure of Roles Across Proposals:

• All team members have disclosed their roles and the scope of their services for this proposal. Any involvement in other proposals has been transparently declared to avoid conflicts of interest and ensure compliance with Catalyst funding requirements.

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

To provide a detailed and transparent breakdown of the budget for the DRMZ Web3 / DRMZ Academy workshops, we will distribute the total budget requested: 100000 based on the following breakdown:

Venue Costs - 40%:

• Details: Costs involved in renting spaces at community colleges and business hubs for hosting the workshops.
• ADA Allocation: Approximately 40,000 ADA

Curriculum Design and Content Creation - 15%:

• Details: Development of engaging and informative workshop materials tailored to different knowledge levels about Cardano and blockchain technology.
• ADA Allocation: Approximately 15,000 ADA

Speakers and Expert Stipends - 6%:

• Details: Compensation for guest speakers and experts, including those from the Cardano community who contribute specialized knowledge on advanced topics.
• ADA Allocation: Approximately 6,000 ADA

Marketing and Promotion - 20%:

• Details: Expenses related to advertising, community outreach, and promotional materials to attract a wide range of participants.
• ADA Allocation: Approximately 20,000 ADA

Project Management - 10%:

• Details: Costs associated with managing the project, including coordination, scheduling, and logistics handled by the project manager, Chilli / Juliban.
• ADA Allocation: Approximately 10,000 ADA

Documentation and Reporting - 4%:

• Details: Creating detailed documentation and reports for stakeholders and community members, outlining the project's progress and outcomes.
• ADA Allocation: Approximately 4,000 ADA

Airdrops and Giveaways - 5%:

• Details: Budget for distributing small tokens of appreciation like NFTs or other digital assets to engage and reward participants.
• ADA Allocation: Approximately 5,000 ADA

Third-Party Products and Services:

• Educational Platforms: Utilization of Work.Courses for delivering high-quality educational content.
• Professional Services: Engagement of professionals for financial audits and legal compliance to ensure the project adheres to all relevant regulations and standards.
• Software Licenses: Any necessary software for managing and conducting the workshops, such as webinar tools or content management systems, will be licensed appropriately.

Management of Excess or Insufficient Funds:

• Excess Funds: Any surplus funds will be reinvested into expanding the scope of the workshops or enhancing future educational programs within the Cardano ecosystem.
• Insufficient Funds: If the project exceeds the budgeted cost, we will seek additional funding through community grants, partnerships, or sponsorships.

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

The budget for the DRMZ Web3 / DRMZ Academy workshops is carefully structured to ensure maximum value for money for the Cardano ecosystem.

Each component of the budget is designed to enhance the impact and sustainability of our educational initiatives, thereby fostering a robust and knowledgeable Cardano community.

Justification of Costs:

1. Venue Costs (40% of budget): The selection of venue spaces at community colleges and business hubs ensures accessibility and convenience for participants, promoting higher attendance and engagement. These costs are in line with market rates for venue rentals in San Diego, a major city where real estate premiums reflect the demand for quality educational spaces.
2. Curriculum Design and Content Creation (15% of budget): This allocation covers the creation of high-quality, comprehensive educational materials that are specific to the Cardano ecosystem. The cost is justified by the need for specialized content that is accurate, up-to-date, and tailored to the needs of different learners, aligning with the rates for professional educational content developers in the tech sector.
3. Speakers and Expert Stipends (6% of budget): This cost ensures that we can attract top-tier experts from the Cardano community to deliver deep insights and advanced knowledge. The stipends are competitive and necessary to secure individuals who are leaders in their fields, reflecting standard industry rates for professional speakers and workshop leaders.
4. Marketing and Promotion (20% of budget): Effective marketing is crucial to maximize participation and community engagement. The allocated budget is consistent with typical marketing costs for similar scale events in the technology and education sectors, ensuring that the workshops reach a broad audience.
5. Project Management (10% of budget): Efficient project management is essential for the smooth execution and success of the workshops. The allocation for project management reflects the going rate for experienced managers in Southern California, particularly those with specialized skills in managing tech and education projects.
6. Documentation and Reporting (4% of budget): Comprehensive documentation and transparent reporting are vital for accountability and continuous improvement. This budget allocation allows for professional reporting and documentation, which are crucial for maintaining the trust and support of the Cardano community.
7. Airdrops and Giveaways (5% of budget): These are strategic investments designed to enhance participant engagement and loyalty, promoting a deeper connection with the Cardano ecosystem. The costs are aligned with typical expenses for digital rewards and are an effective tool for building community solidarity and enthusiasm.

Value for Money:

The DRMZ Web3 / DRMZ Academy workshops represent significant value for money by equipping participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to actively engage with and contribute to the Cardano ecosystem. By fostering a well-informed community, we not only enhance individual capabilities but also strengthen the overall ecosystem’s capacity for innovation and growth.

The investment in these workshops thus translates directly into tangible benefits for Cardano by expanding its user base, improving its technological literacy, and promoting its adoption across various sectors.