ReStake: Cardano's Unified Re-Staking Protocol for Actively Validating Services (AVS)

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Amaan Khan

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

Entity (Not Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Requested funds in ada

70000

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

4

[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)

ReStake solves the scalability issues faced by DePin/AI projects by allowing any service the opportunity to tap into the pooled security of Cardano stakers.

[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

The project will be open source under MIT License. This will allow anyone to do whatever they wish with the original code, as long as the original copyright and license notice is included either in the distributed source code or software.

[METADATA] SDG rating

SDG Goals

8 - Promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all

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

17.19 - By 2030, build on existing initiatives to develop measurements of progress on sustainable development that complement gross domestic product, and support statistical capacity-building in developing countries

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.b - Support domestic technology development, research and innovation in developing countries, including by ensuring a conducive policy environment for, inter alia, industrial diversification and value addition to commodities

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Introduction

ReStake is a cardano's native restaking protocol, designed to augment the security and operational efficiency of decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePIN) and AI applications via a pool of restaked ADA.

Technical Modules

1. ReStake Restaking Layer: Integrates directly with Cardano, enabling devices within the DePIN ecosystem to leverage staked ADA. This layer uses the ReStake ID, a unique identifier that ensures secure and continuous device operation and interaction within the network.
2. Message Layer: A dedicated communication protocol that facilitates the secure and efficient transfer of data between devices and the blockchain, ensuring that commands and transactions are executed reliably.
3. LRT Mechanism: Provides a system for users to stake and restake their tokens, enhancing the liquidity and utility of the native tokens while securing network operations for other dApps.

Workflow

1. Device Registration: Each device is registered with a unique ReStake ID, linking it securely to the Cardano blockchain.
2. Task Initiation: Users send tasks to the network via the Message Layer, which securely transmits commands to the appropriate device.
3. Token Staking and Restaking: Upon receiving a task, devices or their corresponding operators can restake ADA as a security deposit, which is managed through the ReStake Restaking Layer.
4. Task Execution and Verification: Devices execute the assigned tasks. The results are verified through the network, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of the data processed.
5. Reward and Penalty Mechanisms: Successful task completion results in rewards distributed to device operators. Conversely, any malpractice or failure results in penalties, with rewards being slashed to maintain high standards of operation.

Example Scenario: Decentralized GPU Processing

• Initialization: A GPU user needs to process a complex dataset. They initiate a task through the ReStake interface, paying with native tokens.
• Task Processing: The task is sent to a GPU Node operator via the Message Layer. The operator have a pool of restaked ADA which is utilized against the successful completion of the task.
• Verification: Once the task is completed, the output is sent back through the network for verification. If the output meets the predefined standards, the operator is rewarded with tokens. If not, they are are penalized.
• Security Enhancement: Throughout this process, the ReStake protocol ensures that all operations are secured by the underlying Cardano blockchain, leveraging its proof-of-stake mechanism to deter malicious activities and enhance overall network integrity.

Summary

ReStake harnesses the robust security framework of Cardano to enhance the functionality and reliability of DePIN applications. By integrating advanced restaking features and a unique device identity protocol, ReStake not only secures the network but also optimizes operational efficiency and user capital deployment. This innovative approach positions ReStake as a critical tool for expanding the capabilities of decentralized networks, making them safer, more efficient, and more accessible to a broader audience.

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

Impact on the Cardano Community:

1. Enhanced Security: ReStake leverages Cardano's security protocols to fortify decentralized infrastructure networks (DePIN) and AI applications, ensuring a safer environment for users and stakeholders.
2. Operational Efficiency: By integrating advanced restaking mechanisms and a dedicated communication protocol, ReStake optimizes the operational efficiency of DePIN applications, streamlining task execution and data transfer processes.
3. Capital Efficiency: The introduction of Liquid Restaking Tokens (LRTs) improves capital efficiency within the Cardano ecosystem, allowing users to stake and restake their tokens seamlessly while enhancing liquidity and utility.

Measurement of Impact:

1. Adoption Rate: Tracking the adoption rate of ReStake among DePIN projects and AI applications on the Cardano blockchain, indicating the platform's relevance and utility within the community.
2. Security Enhancements: Monitoring the reduction in security breaches and incidents within DePIN networks and AI applications following the implementation of ReStake, demonstrating its effectiveness in enhancing security.

Sharing Outputs:

1. Documentation and Tutorials: Providing comprehensive documentation and tutorials on ReStake's technical implementation and usage, enabling developers and stakeholders to understand and utilize the protocol effectively.
2. Collaborations and Partnerships: Collaborating with other projects and organizations within the Cardano ecosystem to promote awareness of ReStake and explore opportunities for integration and mutual benefit.

[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?

Team Expertise and Background

Raihan Khan and Amaan Khan bring over 7 years of combined experience in product development, specializing in Full Stack Development, Cardano, and cybersecurity. Raihan, as the tech lead at PinkSurfing, has a strong foundation in JavaScript, React, Node.js, and MongoDB, while Amaan's expertise lies in web3, blockchain, AI, and the MERN stack.

Project Delivery and Fund Management

• Structured Development Process: Our approach involves rigorous planning, development, testing, and deployment phases with clear milestones and deliverables.

• Open Communication: We commit to maintaining open lines of communication with stakeholders through regular updates via social media, project reports, and community forums.

• Financial Oversight: Implementing detailed budgeting, regular audits, and transparent reporting ensures proper fund management and accountability.

• Validation and Testing: Prototypes will be deployed in controlled environments for validation, with feedback used iteratively to improve the concept.

• Community Engagement and Feedback: Continuous engagement with the Cardano community ensures alignment with user needs and expectations through beta testing and feedback collection.

Conclusion

With over 7 years of combined experience in product development and a robust project management approach, our team is highly capable of successfully conceptualizing ReStake Protocol with trust and accountability, contributing significantly to the growth of the Cardano community.

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

Milestone 1: Research

A. Milestone Outputs:

• Comprehensive research document outlining existing restaking protocols and their application in decentralized networks.
• Analysis of security challenges and operational inefficiencies in current DePIN and AI application landscapes.
• Identification of key requirements and objectives for integrating a restaking protocol into the Cardano blockchain.

B. Acceptance Criteria:

• The research document covers a wide range of existing restaking protocols, including their features, limitations, and real-world applications.
• Security challenges and operational inefficiencies within DePIN and AI applications are thoroughly analyzed, highlighting areas for improvement.
• Key requirements and objectives for integrating a restaking protocol into Cardano are clearly defined, aligning with the project's vision and goals.

C. Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• Submission of the comprehensive research document in PDF form.

Milestone 2: Architectural Design

A. Milestone Outputs:

• Detailed architectural design document outlining the structure and components of the ReStake protocol.
• Specification of the interaction between ReStake and the Cardano blockchain, including smart contract integration and data flow.
• Design of the ReStake Restaking Layer, Message Layer, and LRT Mechanism, emphasizing modularity, scalability, and security.

B. Acceptance Criteria:

• The architectural design document provides a clear overview of the ReStake protocol's structure and functionality, addressing key technical requirements and challenges.
• Specification of the interaction between ReStake and Cardano demonstrates a deep understanding of blockchain integration and data management principles.
• Design of individual modules (Restaking Layer, Message Layer, LRT Mechanism) ensures modularity, scalability, and adherence to best practices in software architecture.

C. Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• Submission of the detailed architectural design document in PDF.

Milestone 3: Low Fidelity Prototype and Project Closure Report

A. Milestone Outputs:

• Low fidelity prototype demonstrating the core functionalities of the ReStake protocol, including device registration, task initiation, token staking, and task execution.
• Project closure report summarizing the project's objectives, achievements, challenges, and lessons learned.
• Documentation of the low fidelity prototype, including installation instructions, user guides, and code repositories.

B. Acceptance Criteria:

• The low fidelity prototype provides a functional demonstration of the ReStake protocol's core functionalities, showcasing its potential impact on DePIN and AI applications.
• The project closure report effectively summarizes the project's journey, highlighting key milestones, achievements, and challenges encountered.
• Documentation of the low fidelity prototype is comprehensive and accessible, enabling stakeholders and future developers to understand and replicate the prototype.

C. Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• Demonstration of the low fidelity prototype to project stakeholders and technical experts.
• Submission of the project closure report, including feedback from stakeholders and reflections from the project team.
• Publication of documentation and code repositories for the low fidelity prototype.

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

Amaan Khan is a full-stack developer, Opshin developer, and cybersecurity enthusiast with four years of professional experience. He has worked on numerous innovative projects across web3, blockchain, artificial intelligence, and the MERN stack. Amaan has successfully completed a variety of freelancing projects, delivering exceptional solutions to his clients. In addition to his development work, he runs a graphic design company, where he collaborates with his team to provide creative and impactful solutions.

Furthermore, Amaan is passionate about cybersecurity and shares his knowledge through a dedicated channel. On this platform, he creates informative content covering topics such as blockchain, AI, and cybersecurity, helping to spread awareness and educate people about these critical areas. His diverse skills and commitment to both technology and education make him a valuable contributor to the tech community.

https://twitter.com/amaan_sec

https://www.instagram.com/amaan_sec/

https://www.instagram.com/amaan.designlab/

https://amaancoderx.github.io/portfolio/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amaan-khan-20292823a/

Raihan Khan, a Full Stack and Blockchain Developer with a comprehensive 3+ years of background in developing scalable and efficient web applications. He is currently a tech lead at https://pinksurfing.com/. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Rajshahi University, He have deep expertise in a range of technologies including JavaScript, React, Node.js, and MongoDB. His approach combines a keen understanding of user experience with robust backend logic to create seamless digital solutions that drive business success.

https://www.instagram.com/theraihhan/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/raihan-khan-07a1aa21b/

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

• Research: 25,000 ADA
• Project Manager: 4,000 ADA
• Lead Developer: 8,000 ADA
• Protocol Architect: 10,000 ADA
• Technical Writers: 3,000 ADA

• Design: 20,000 ADA
• Project Manager: 2,000 ADA
• Lead Developer: 8,000 ADA
• Protocol Architect: 10,000 ADA

• Low-Fidelity Prototype: 25,000 ADA
• Project Manager: 4,000 ADA
• Marketing activities: 12,000 ADA
• Backend Developers (2): 6,000 ADA
• QA Engineers: 2,000 ADA
• Technical Writers: 1,000 ADA

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

The cost of the project, set at 70,000 ADA, represents significant value for money for the Cardano ecosystem, taking into account the following factors:

Expertise in Cardano: The project necessitates skilled professionals with specialized knowledge of the Cardano blockchain & ecosystem.

These skills are in high demand and command premium rates. The budgeted costs are aligned with industry standards for such expertise.

• Efficient Resource Allocation: The proposed costs for conceptualizing this idea on the Cardano blockchain are carefully evaluated to ensure efficient resource allocation. By leveraging existing infrastructure and expertise within the Cardano community, the project minimizes unnecessary expenditures while maximizing the impact of the investment.

• Feasibility Assessment: The costs are determined based on a thorough feasibility assessment, taking into account factors such as development complexity, regulatory considerations, and market dynamics. This rigorous evaluation process minimizes the risk of budget overruns and ensures that the project remains financially viable throughout its lifecycle.

• Value Proposition: The costs of the proposal are justified by the potential value it brings to the Cardano ecosystem. The project has the potential to unlock new opportunities for growth and development, ultimately delivering significant long-term value for stakeholders.

In summary, the costs associated with the proposal are justified by the efficient allocation of resources, community-driven development approach, thorough feasibility assessment, and the value proposition for the Cardano ecosystem.