Kick for Cardano - Promoting The Cardano Ecosystem through Soccer

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Bismark Yankson

[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

Ernest Quarm : gomoasports4change@gmail.com

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

10

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language

No

[GENERAL] Summarize your solution to the problem (200-character limit including spaces)

With soccer's mass appeal, we will organize tournaments distributing free ADA and sell finals tickets in ADA. This approach introduces Cardano hands-on, raise awareness for an engaged community.

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

Yes

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

The project has the following key dependencies:

1. Gomoa Sports for Change Foundation: As the lead partner coordinating the soccer tournament and engaging participating youth academies, their involvement is crucial for executing the core activities.
2. Soccer Academies: We shall also be actively engaging other Soccer Acadamies as they shall be the main participants alongside Gomoa Sports for Change Foundation for the main sports tournaments.
3. Local blockchain communities: Collaboration with existing enthusiast groups and developer communities will be vital for community outreach, post-event engagement, and sustaining the project's momentum.
4. Media and soccer fan club partners: Partnerships with local media outlets and influential soccer fan clubs are necessary for amplifying marketing efforts and reaching the target audience effectivelly.

We believe these dependencies are essential as they bring together the required expertise, resources, and networks to successfully deliver the project's objectives of promoting Cardano adoption through the powerful medium of soccer.

[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

We are committed to embracing open-source principles and fostering collaboration within the Cardano ecosystem. Our project outputs will be made available as open-source resources, enabling transparent access, community contribution, and the advancement of knowledge sharing.

Open-Source Elements:

1. Educational Materials and Curricula: All educational materials, workshop slides, and training curricula developed as part of the project will be released under an open-source license.
2. Localized DApp Prototypes: Any prototypes or proof-of-concept decentralized applications (DApps) developed during the project, showcasing the potential of the Cardano blockchain for local use cases, will be open-source.
3. Project Documentation and Resources: Project documentation, such as reports, case studies, and best practices, will be made available as open-source resources.

Open-Source License:

We intend to utilize the MIT License for our open-source project outputs. The MIT License is a permissive and widely adopted open-source license that allows for flexible use, modification, and distribution of the licensed material, while also providing protection against liability and ensuring proper attribution.

Repository and Contribution Guidelines:

We will establish a dedicated open-source repository on a platform like GitHub or GitLab, where all our open-source project outputs will be hosted. Clear contribution guidelines will be provided, outlining the processes for community members to submit feedback, report issues, and propose improvements or enhancements to the project's open-source components.

By embracing these open-source principles, we aim to foster transparency, collaboration, and knowledge sharing within the Cardano ecosystem. Our open-source project outputs will not only benefit the immediate project stakeholders but also contribute to the broader development of the Cardano community, enabling continuous improvement, localization, and the exploration of innovative use cases.

We also recognize the importance of intellectual property rights and will ensure that any third-party materials or components used in the project are properly licensed or have the necessary permissions for redistribution and modification.

We are committed to actively engaging with the Cardano community, soliciting feedback, and incorporating valuable contributions to enhance the quality and impact of our open-source project outputs.

[METADATA] SDG rating

SDG Goals

3 - Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages

9 - Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation

17 - Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development

SDG Subgoals

17.7 - Promote the development, transfer, dissemination and diffusion of environmentally sound technologies to developing countries on favourable terms, including on concessional and preferential terms, as mutually agreed

17.8 - Fully operationalize the technology bank and science, technology and innovation capacity-building mechanism for least developed countries by 2017 and enhance the use of enabling technology, in particular information and communications technology

9.1 - Develop quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure, including regional and transborder infrastructure, to support economic development and human well-being, with a focus on affordable and equitable access for all

9.3 - Increase the access of small-scale industrial and other enterprises, in particular in developing countries, to financial services, including affordable credit, and their integration into value chains and markets

Key Performance Indicator (KPI)

17.7.1 - Total amount of funding for developing countries to promote the development, transfer, dissemination and diffusion of environmentally sound technologies

17.8.1 - Proportion of individuals using the Internet

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

The proposed solution, Kick for Cardano, is an innovative approach that harnesses the widespread popularity and cultural significance of soccer in Ghana to drive awareness, understanding, and adoption of the Cardano blockchain ecosystem. It is a unique initiative that seamlessly blends the passion for sports with the transformative potential of blockchain technology.

We recognize the lack of awareness and practical experience with Cardano as a major barrier to its transformative potential in Ghana and the broader region. By leveraging the unifying power of soccer, which transcends demographics and garners immense passion, we can effectively introduce Cardano to diverse communities in an engaging and relatable manner. This approach allows us to meet people where their interests lie, breaking down barriers and fostering organic adoption.

Our reasons for this approach stem from the recognition that traditional methods of blockchain education and adoption often struggle to resonate with the masses. Soccer, on the other hand, is deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of Ghana, making it an ideal medium to capture attention and foster hands-on exploration of Cardano. By combining the excitement of a soccer tournament with the distribution of free ADA and the sale of finals tickets using Cardano, we create a gamified and immersive experience that incentivizes practical usage and adoption.

Kick for Cardano will engage a wide range of stakeholders, including:

1. Youth soccer academy foundations: We will partner with 12 youth soccer academies under the umbrella of Gomoa Sports for Change, leveraging their extensive networks, infrastructure, and deep roots within local communities.
2. Soccer fans and local communities: By distributing free ADA to spectators during match days and selling tournament finals tickets exclusively in ADA, we will incentivize the creation and usage of Cardano wallets, driving practical adoption.
3. Local blockchain enthusiasts and developer communities: Their involvement will be crucial for conducting educational workshops, showcasing Cardano-based decentralized applications (DApps), and sustaining post-event community engagement.
4. Media partners and soccer fan clubs: Collaborations with local media outlets and influential fan clubs will amplify our marketing efforts, ensuring widespread reach and resonance.

To demonstrate and prove our impact, we will implement a robust monitoring and evaluation framework, tracking key metrics such as the number of new Cardano wallets created, ADA distributed and used for ticket sales, attendance at educational workshops, and the growth of the local Cardano community. Additionally, we will conduct pre- and post-event surveys to assess changes in awareness, understanding, and sentiment towards Cardano, as well as gather valuable feedback for continuous improvement.

The uniqueness of our solution lies in its innovative approach of combining the universal appeal of soccer with the transformative potential of Cardano. By meeting people where their passions lie, we can effectively break down barriers and introduce Cardano in a culturally relevant and engaging manner, fostering organic adoption and creating a self-sustaining ecosystem.

In addition, Kick for Cardano will serve as a catalyst for fostering cross-sector collaborations and exploring novel use cases at the intersection of sports and blockchain technology. By bringing together athletes, sports enthusiasts, blockchain developers, and entrepreneurs, we can unlock new avenues for innovation and create solutions that address real-world challenges faced by local communities.

Ultimately, the success of Kick for Cardano will benefit not only the local communities in Ghana but also the broader Cardano ecosystem. By cultivating a thriving and engaged community of Cardano users, developers, and entrepreneurs, we will contribute to the decentralization and global expansion of the Cardano network, aligning with its mission of creating a more secure, transparent, and equitable financial operating system for the world.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C2SUTVOoLfI/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CbFS8x_owxB/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CYWdVMtIEw9/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CQ7SmqSKy1y/

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

The Kick for Cardano project will have a multifaceted positive impact on the wider Cardano community, contributing to its growth, decentralization, and real-world adoption.

1. Community Expansion and Engagement: By introducing Cardano to diverse communities through the culturally resonant medium of soccer, we will expand the Cardano ecosystem's reach and cultivate a vibrant, engaged user base in Ghana and potentially across Africa.
2. Practical Adoption and Use Cases: The project's innovative approach of distributing free ADA and selling tournament finals tickets exclusively in ADA will drive hands-on adoption and practical usage of Cardano wallets and transactions.
3. Ecosystem Synergies and Collaboration: By partnering with local blockchain enthusiast groups, developer communities, and the Cardano Foundation, we will foster synergies and collaborations within the Cardano ecosystem.

To measure the impact of our project, we will employ a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation framework that includes both quantitative and qualitative metrics:

Quantitative Metrics:

• Number of new Cardano wallets created
• Amount of ADA distributed and used for ticket sales
• Attendance at educational workshops and community events
• Growth in the local Cardano community (e.g., developer groups, meetups)
• Number of localized DApps and use cases developed.

Qualitative Metrics:

• Pre- and post-event surveys to assess changes in awareness, understanding, and sentiment towards Cardano.
• Case studies and success stories highlighting the impact on individuals and communities
• Feedback from partners, participants, and community members.

We will share the outputs and opportunities resulting from our project through various channels:

1. Comprehensive Impact Report: A detailed report showcasing the quantitative and qualitative impact, lessons learned, and best practices will be widely disseminated within the Cardano community and shared with our partners and stakeholders.
2. Open-Source Resources: Any educational materials, curricula, and localized DApp prototypes developed during the project will be made available as open-source resources for the broader Cardano community to leverage and build upon.
3. Community Outreach: We will actively participate in Cardano community events, forums, and channels, sharing our experiences, insights, and opportunities for collaboration and replication in other regions.
4. Media and Marketing Campaigns: Strategic partnerships with local and international media outlets will be leveraged to amplify the project's impact and inspire similar initiatives worldwide, further expanding the Cardano ecosystem's reac

By fostering a vibrant and engaged Cardano community in Ghana, demonstrating real-world adoption, and cultivating cross-ecosystem collaboration, the Kick for Cardano project will bring tangible value to the wider Cardano community, aligning with its vision of creating a more secure, transparent, and inclusive financial system for the world.

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

The Kick for Cardano project brings together a diverse and capable team with the necessary expertise, experience, and resources to deliver a high-impact initiative with utmost trust and accountability.

Organizational Capability:

• Gomoa Sports for Change Foundation: As the lead partner coordinating the soccer tournament, they have a proven track record of successfully organizing large-scale youth sporting events and leveraging their extensive grassroots networks.
• Our organization: With a dedicated team of blockchain and technology professionals, we possess in-depth knowledge of the Cardano ecosystem, as well as expertise in project management, community engagement, and monitoring and evaluation.

Strategic Partnerships:

• Cardano Foundation: Their advisory role and provision of Cardano experts will ensure technical accuracy, alignment with the broader Cardano ecosystem goals, and access to valuable resources and networks.
• Soccer Academies: We shall also be actively engaging other Soccer Acadamies as they shall be the main participants alongside Gomoa Sports for Change Foundation for the main sports tournaments.
• Local blockchain communities: Collaboration with existing enthusiast groups and developer communities will provide access to technical talent, community outreach channels, and post-event engagement strategies.
• Media and soccer fan club partners: Partnerships with local media outlets and influential soccer fan clubs are necessary for amplifying marketing efforts and reaching the target audience effectivelly.

Robust Project Management:

• We will implement a comprehensive project management framework, including detailed planning, risk mitigation strategies, and regular progress monitoring.
• A dedicated project manager with experience in large-scale event coordination and stakeholder management will oversee the smooth execution of all activities.

Financial Accountability:

• Our organization has a proven track record of managing grants and funds from reputable organizations, with well-established financial management systems and auditing processes in place.
• We will maintain detailed financial records, undergo regular audits, and provide transparent reporting to our partners and the Cardano community.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

• A robust monitoring and evaluation framework, as outlined in the "Impact" section, will be implemented to track progress, measure outcomes, and validate the feasibility of our approach.
• This includes both quantitative metrics (e.g., wallet creation, ADA usage) and qualitative assessments (e.g., surveys, case studies) to capture the full impact.

To validate the feasibility of our approach, we will undertake the following steps:

1. Conduct a comprehensive situational analysis and needs assessment, engaging with key stakeholders (soccer academies, local communities, blockchain groups) to understand their perspectives, challenges, and expectation

1. Pilot testing: Prior to the full-scale tournament, we will conduct a smaller-scale pilot event to test our assumptions, logistical arrangements, and engagement strategie

1. Ongoing stakeholder consultations: Throughout the project lifecycle, we will maintain open communication channels with our partners, community members, and participants, soliciting their feedback and incorporating their insights to ensure our approach remains relevant and effectiv

1. Iterative adaptation: Based on the monitoring and evaluation data, we will remain agile and adaptable, making necessary adjustments to our strategies and activities to optimize impact and feasibilit

By leveraging our collective capabilities, strategic partnerships, robust project management practices, and a commitment to financial accountability and continuous learning, we are well-positioned to deliver the Kick for Cardano project with high levels of trust and accountability, while validating and refining our approach to ensure long-term feasibility and impact.

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

Project Initiation and Planning

A: Milestone Outputs

• Signed agreements with project partners (Gomoa Sports for Change Foundation, Cardano Foundation, local blockchain communities, media partners)
• Detailed project plan, including timelines, roles, and responsibilities
• Marketing and communication strategy
• Monitoring and evaluation framework

B: Acceptance Criteria

• Agreements signed by all partner organizations
• Project plan approved by the project steering committee
• Marketing strategy reviewed and endorsed by communication experts
• Monitoring and evaluation framework validated by external evaluators

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Copies of signed partner agreements
• Project plan document
• Marketing strategy document
• Monitoring and evaluation framework document

Tournament Execution and Community Engagement

A: Milestone Outputs

• Successful organization and execution of the soccer tournament
• Distribution of free ADA to spectators and sale of finals tickets in ADA
• Educational workshops and exhibitions conducted
• Community outreach and engagement activities

B: Acceptance Criteria

• Tournament matches held as per schedule, with attendance targets met
• Target number of ADA distributed and used for ticket sales achieved
• Educational workshops and exhibitions delivered, with participant feedback indicating high satisfaction
• Engagement metrics (social media reach, event attendance, etc.) meeting predetermined goals

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Tournament match reports and attendance records
• ADA distribution and ticket sales data
• Workshop and exhibition materials, participant feedback forms
• Social media analytics, event photos, and media coverage

Impact Assessment and Knowledge Sharing

A: Milestone Outputs

• Comprehensive impact assessment report
• Open-source educational materials and resources
• Participation in Cardano community events and knowledge-sharing platforms

B: Acceptance Criteria

• Impact assessment report approved by external evaluators
• Educational materials and resources reviewed and endorsed by subject matter experts
• Successful participation in at least three Cardano community events or platforms

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Impact assessment report
• Open-source educational materials and resources
• Event participation certificates, presentation materials, and community engagement records

Final Milestone: Project Close-out

A: Milestone Outputs

• Project close-out report
• Project close-out video

B: Acceptance Criteria

• Report and video meet the requirements set by Project Catalyst

C: Evidence of Milestone Completion

• Submission of the project close-out report
• Submission of the project close-out video

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

Bismark Yankson (Project Lead and Lead Trainer) is a multitalented individual with a passion for sports and blockchain technology. As a former colt soccer player and a software/web developer with over 10 years of experience, he brings a unique perspective to the Kick for Cardano project. Currently serving as the MIS Officer and Systems Developer at Pentecost University Ghana, Bismark leverages his academic background as a professional teacher to effectively impart knowledge. His diverse expertise spans programming, database management, graphic design, and blockchain development. Bismark's deep understanding of the sports culture and his technical prowess in blockchain make him an ideal fit to lead the project as the Project Lead and Lead Trainer. With strong communication and leadership abilities, he is poised to ensure effective knowledge transfer, seamless execution, and the successful integration of Cardano into the world of soccer.

https://github.com/profebo1

https://abebinfotechsolutions.net/#team

https://gomoasportsforchange.com/managements-team/

https://gh.linkedin.com/in/bismark-yankson-a94728125

Ernest Quarm (Founder, Gomoa Sports for Change Foundation) is the visionary founder of the Gomoa Sports for Change Foundation, a remarkable organization based in Gomoa Benso, Central Region of Ghana. With a deep-rooted belief that a single act of kindness can profoundly impact the world, Ernest has dedicated himself to making a significant contribution to humanity through his personal efforts and the operations of the Foundation. His inspiration to establish this charity stems from an unwavering passion to be an Agent of Change, positively influencing his community, district, and the nation as a whole. Through the Gomoa Sports for Change Foundation, Ernest has harnessed the power of sports to create opportunities for personal growth, unity, and social transformation. His commitment to leveraging the universal language of sports as a catalyst for positive change has garnered widespread recognition and support, making him an invaluable partner for the Kick for Cardano project.

https://gomoasportsforchange.com/managements-team/

https://www.instagram.com/gomoasports4change/

Peter Bismark (Community Outreach and Stakeholder Engagement Lead) brings a wealth of experience in youth development, entrepreneurship, and policy advocacy, making him an invaluable asset to the Kick for Cardano project team. With a strong background in education and a passion for empowering young individuals, Peter will play a crucial role in community outreach and stakeholder engagement initiatives. He will lead the development and implementation of community outreach strategies, establish and nurture relationships with local youth organizations, sports academies, and educational institutions, and facilitate stakeholder consultations and ensure effective communication with project partners and beneficiaries. Leveraging his expertise in youth employment policies and entrepreneurship development, Peter will align project activities with local needs and aspirations. He will represent the project at relevant forums, conferences, and events, advocating for the adoption of the Cardano ecosystem, and collaborate with the marketing and communications team to create engaging content and materials tailored to the target audience. Additionally, Peter will identify and engage with potential mentors, industry experts, and role models to inspire and guide project participants.

https://ilapi.org/s-team?id=1

https://instagram.com/peterbismark/

https://linkedin.com/in/peter-bismark-kwofie-93681486

https://twitter.com/peter_bismark?lang=en

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

We propose the following cost breakdown:

Personnel Costs:

• Project Lead: 5,000 ADA (full-time, 9 months)
• Marketing and Communications Lead: 4,000 ADA (full-time, 9 months)
• Cardano Technical Lead: 3,000 ADA (part-time, 6 months)
• Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist: 3,000 ADA (part-time, 6 months)
• Event Logistics Coordinator: 2,000 ADA (full-time, 4 months)
• Social Media and Content Creators: 2,000 ADA (part-time, 6 months)
• Volunteers and Interns: 500 ADA (stipends and incentives)

Tournament and Event Costs:

• Venue rental and setup: 4,000 ADA
• Equipment (goals, balls, cones, etc.): 2,000 ADA
• Referee and staff fees: 1,500 ADA
• Transportation and logistics: 2,500 ADA
• Participant kits and merchandise: 3,000 ADA

ADA Distribution and Incentives:

• ADA for distribution to spectators: 10,000 ADA
• ADA for finals ticket sales: 5,000 ADA

Educational and Community Engagement:

• Workshop and exhibition materials: 2,000 ADA
• Venue rental for workshops and events: 1,000 ADA
• Cardano expert fees: 2,000 ADA
• Community meetups and networking events: 1,500 ADA

Marketing and Promotion:

• Social media and digital marketing campaigns: 3,000 ADA
• Traditional media partnerships (TV, radio, print): 4,000 ADA
• Promotional merchandise and giveaways: 2,000 ADA

Technology and Infrastructure:

• Laptops and devices for workshops: 3,000 ADA
• Software licenses and subscriptions: 1,000 ADA
• Internet and connectivity: 500 ADA

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting:

• Data collection and analysis tools: 1,500 ADA
• External evaluators and auditors: 2,000 ADA
• Project documentation and reporting: 1,000 ADA

Administrative and Miscellaneous:

• Office supplies and utilities: 500 ADA
• Travel and accommodation: 2,000 ADA
• Contingency fund (5%): 4,000 ADA

Total Budget: 80,000 ADA

This budget allocation will be subject to further optimization and potential adjustments based on strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and in-kind contributions secured during the project's execution phase. Additionally, we will actively explore alternative sources of funding, such as corporate sponsorships, crowdfunding campaigns, and collaborations with government agencies and non-profit organizations, to supplement any potential shortfalls.

We remain committed to maintaining transparency and accountability in our financial management, adhering to the Fund Rules and reporting requirements set forth by Project Catalyst. Regular financial updates and audits will be provided to ensure proper utilization of funds and to maintain the trust of our stakeholders and the broader Cardano community.

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

The Kick for Cardano project represents excellent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem, as it leverages a cost-effective approach to drive widespread awareness, adoption, and community engagement around the Cardano blockchain. Here's how the proposed budget of 80,000 ADA offers a compelling return on investment:

1. Innovative and Scalable Outreach Model: By harnessing the universal appeal of soccer, a sport deeply ingrained in Ghanaian culture, we can reach a vast and diverse audience in a relatable and engaging manner.
2. Leveraging Existing Infrastructure and Partnerships: A significant portion of the budget is allocated towards leveraging the existing infrastructure and networks of our partners, such as the Gomoa Sports for Change Foundation, local sports academies, and local blockchain communities.
3. Catalyzing Organic Community Growth: By incentivizing the creation of Cardano wallets and facilitating hands-on experience with ADA transactions, we foster a grassroots adoption of the Cardano ecosystem.
4. Long-term Impact and Ecosystem Development: The project's focus on educational workshops, developer engagement, and community building lays the foundation for a thriving Cardano ecosystem in Ghana.
5. Efficient Resource Allocation: The budget breakdown reflects a strategic allocation of resources, striking a balance between personnel costs, event logistics, marketing and promotion, and technology infrastructure.
6. Transparency and Accountability: Our commitment to transparency and accountability, including regular financial updates and audits, ensures that the funds are utilized effectively and in alignment with the project's objective

These costs associated with the Kick for Cardano project are proportional to the average wage and freelance rates in Ghana, as well as standard rates for event organization, marketing, and technology initiatives. We have carefully researched and benchmarked our costs against similar projects and initiatives, ensuring that they are competitive and represent fair market value.

By leveraging the power of soccer to drive grassroots adoption, fostering a sustainable community growth model, and investing in long-term ecosystem development, the Kick for Cardano project offers exceptional value for money for the Cardano ecosystem, positioning it as a strategic and impactful initiative worthy of support.