Automating Smart Contract and dApp Development

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Meheret Anulo

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

Individual

[GENERAL] Requested funds in ada

173000

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

5

[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 develop a user-friendly platform for creating smart contracts on Cardano with minimal coding requirements, making blockchain technology more accessible and encouraging broader participation

[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 code will be hosted on a publicly accessible GitHub repository. The Project will be made available under the MIT License, providing full transparency and allowing developers the freedom to utilize, alter, and share the code without limitations. This code will be hosted on GitHub, offering a clear and open platform for collaboration and engaging the community.

[METADATA] Horizons

Smart Contracts

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Our proposed solution is to develop a user-friendly platform that allows individuals to create smart contracts on the Cardano blockchain without the need for coding skills. This addresses the significant barrier to entry faced by developers who are interested in utilizing blockchain technology for various purposes, such as creating decentralized applications (dApps) or managing digital assets.

The problem we are solving is the complexity and technical knowledge required to create smart contracts, which currently limits the participation of developers in the blockchain space. By providing a no-code platform, we aim to democratize access to Cardano's blockchain, allowing a wider range of users to leverage its capabilities for their projects and applications.

Our approach involves designing a visual interface that simplifies the process of defining the logic and conditions of smart contracts. Users will be able to create their smart contract logic, abstracting away the complexities of programming. The platform will also provide templates and tutorials to guide users through the process, making it accessible to beginners.

This project will engage various stakeholders, including:

1. Developers: Who will benefit from a more accessible platform for creating smart contracts, potentially leading to a broader range of dApps and use cases on Cardano.
2. Non-Developers: Including entrepreneurs, businesses, and individuals who have ideas for blockchain applications but lack coding skills.
3. Cardano Community: By providing a tool that enhances the usability and accessibility of Cardano, strengthening the ecosystem and attracting more users and developers.

We will demonstrate the impact of our solution by tracking metrics such as the number of users who successfully create smart contracts using the platform, the variety of applications built, and the level of engagement from the community. Feedback and testimonials from users will also be used to gauge the platform's effectiveness and user satisfaction.

What sets our solution apart is its focus on simplicity and accessibility. By minimizing the complexity of smartcontract development , we open up blockchain technology to a much broader audience, enabling more people to participate in the Cardano ecosystem. This not only benefits individual users but also contributes to the growth and diversity of applications built on Cardano, ultimately enhancing its value and appeal as a blockchain platform.

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

The success of our project will bring several positive impacts to the wider Cardano community:

1. Increased Adoption and Accessibility: The project's user-friendly platform for creating smart contracts without coding skills addresses a critical barrier to entry for non-developers. This could lead to increased adoption of Cardano as more individuals and businesses can easily participate in blockchain applications.
2. Diverse Use Cases and Community Engagement: By enabling a broader range of users to create smart contracts, the project encourages the exploration of diverse use cases for blockchain technology. This diversity can lead to a more vibrant ecosystem with a wide array of applications, attracting new users and developers.
3. Educational Value and Skill Development: The platform serves as an educational tool, introducing users to blockchain concepts in a practical manner. This not only expands the knowledge base of the Cardano community but also encourages skill development and innovation among users.
4. Enhanced Quality of Development and Developer Engagement: By simplifying the smart contract creation process, the project aims to elevate the quality of development on Cardano. This can attract more developers to the ecosystem, leading to the creation of more sophisticated and impactful applications.
5. Skill Development and Accessibility: The no-code smart contract platform will make it easier for individuals with limited programming experience to create smart contracts on Cardano. 
6. Community Collaboration and Growth:The project seeks to foster collaboration within the Cardano community by providing a platform for users to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and contribute to the ecosystem. 
7. Attracting Diverse Talent: By making smart contract creation more accessible, the project aims to attract a more diverse range of talent to the Cardano ecosystem.

We will measure the impact of our project through both quantitative and qualitative metrics. Quantitatively, we will track the number of users who utilize the platform to create smart contracts, the number of smart contracts deployed on the Cardano blockchain as a result of the platform, and the growth of the Cardano developer community. Qualitatively, we will gather feedback from users on their experience with the platform, the usefulness of the tools and resources provided, and any challenges they encounter.

To share our outputs and opportunities, we will engage with the Cardano community through various channels, including social media, forums, and community events. We will also collaborate with other projects and initiatives within the Cardano ecosystem to leverage synergies and maximize the impact of our work. Additionally, we will publish regular updates and reports detailing our progress, achievements, and lessons learned, to keep the community informed and engaged.

To further enhance the project's impact, we will implement specific metrics for measuring success. These metrics will include tracking the number of users onboarded to the platform, the volume of smart contracts created, and engagement metrics within the Cardano community. This data will provide clear benchmarks for evaluating the project's effectiveness and allow for adjustments to optimize impact.

In addition, we will detail plans for long-term sustainability beyond the initial development phase. This includes strategies for user retention, continuous improvement of the platform based on user feedback, and exploring revenue generation models to ensure the project's viability and growth in the long run. It has a high impact on the cardano ecosystem.By focusing on these aspects, we aim to maximize the project's positive impact on the Cardano ecosystem over the long term.

[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?

Capability to Deliver with Trust and Accountability

• Team Experience and Expertise:

Our project team consists of experts with significant experience in blockchain development, software Development and Engineering , and project management, specifically within the Cardano ecosystem. This expertise ensures that we are well-equipped to handle the technical and organizational demands of the project.

• Track Record

Our project team brings a proven track record in successfully delivering blockchain projects. At the forefront of our accomplishments is our notable participation in a Cardano Catalyst projects.

• Dedicated Development Excellence

Each member of our team brings a unique set of skills and experiences to the table. As developers, we have contributed significantly to Catalyst-funded projects, showcasing our dedication to excellence and our capacity to deliver high-quality results. Our collective experience extends beyond Catalyst initiatives, encompassing a diverse range of blockchain projects within esteemed high-tech organizations.

• Community Involvement and Expertise

Our project team not only boasts significant technical experience but also a deep engagement with the Cardano community. We have been integral in organizing and leading seminars and meetups focused on blockchain and Cardano, enhancing community cohesion and knowledge sharing. These activities demonstrate our commitment to the Cardano ecosystem and our ability to mobilize and educate the community effectively.

• Certified Expertise

Our project team's credentials are further reinforced by certifications in blockchain development and machine learning. T

• Active Community Participation

Beyond technical skills, our team actively participates in the blockchain community. Ethiopian Blockchain Network: web3 hub for Ethiopian. Education, Innovative and Advocacy.

• Collaboration with Local and Global Organizations: Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub

Validating Feasibility of the Approach

• Iterative Development and Pilot Testing
• Performance Metrics and Continuous Evaluation
• Feedback Loops
• Technical Validation
• our team has identified potential risks and developed mitigation strategies, ensuring proactive management of challenges. We are committed to regular progress updates, fostering transparency and accountability throughout the project. Our agile development approach allows for flexibility in responding to emerging needs, ensuring timely and effective project delivery.

Risk Management: To address potential challenges and mitigate risks, we have developed a comprehensive risk management plan. This plan outlines key risks such as technical challenges, regulatory changes, and market fluctuations, along with corresponding mitigation strategies. By proactively identifying and addressing these risks, we aim to ensure the successful execution of our project even in the face of unforeseen obstacles.

Community Engagement: We recognize the importance of community engagement in driving the success of our project. To enhance community involvement, we will implement various strategies such as regular updates through community forums, feedback collection mechanisms, and interactive webinars. By actively involving the community in decision-making processes, we aim to foster a sense of ownership and belonging among developers.

Scalability: Our project includes a robust scalability plan to accommodate a growing user base and evolving technology landscape. This plan involves the use of scalable infrastructure and technologies, as well as continuous monitoring and optimization to ensure the platform remains relevant and effective in the long term.

Partnerships: We are actively seeking partnerships and collaborations that can enhance the success of our project. These partnerships include local and global blockchain institutions, industry experts, educational institutions, and other organizations that can provide valuable resources, expertise, and support.

User Acquisition and Retention: To attract and retain users, we have developed a comprehensive user acquisition and retention strategy. This strategy includes targeted marketing campaigns, incentive programs, and partnerships with developer communities to ensure the platform's long-term success.

Budget Justification: Our budget has been carefully considered and is supported by a detailed breakdown of expenses. Each expense has been justified based on its importance to the project's success, ensuring that the budget is realistic and well-considered.

By incorporating these elements into our project proposal, we aim to increase its feasibility and demonstrate our commitment to delivering a successful project.

Further details on technical validation and risk mitigation strategies will be included to enhance the overall feasibility assessment of the project. This will involve conducting thorough technical validation tests to ensure the platform functions as intended and is compatible with the Cardano blockchain. Additionally, a comprehensive risk mitigation plan will be developed to address potential challenges and ensure the successful execution of the project.

Scalability and Sustainability: To ensure the platform's scalability and long-term sustainability, we will implement the following strategies:

1. Continuous Improvement: We will continuously improve the platform based on user feedback and technological advancements. This includes regular updates, bug fixes, and new feature releases to keep the platform relevant and competitive in the market.
2. Partnerships: We will establish partnerships with relevant organizations, such as educational institutions, industry associations, and blockchain projects, to expand our reach and enhance our offerings. These partnerships will provide access to new resources, expertise, and user bases, ensuring the platform's growth and sustainability.

Technical Validation: Our project acknowledges the technical challenges associated with developing a no-code platform for smart contracts on Cardano. To overcome these challenges, we have conducted extensive research and planning. Our technical validation includes:

1. Detailed technical architecture diagrams illustrating how our platform will interact with the Cardano blockchain.
2. Scalability plans to accommodate a growing user base and evolving technology landscape.
3. Integration strategies to seamlessly connect our platform with the Cardano ecosystem, ensuring compatibility and efficiency.

Comprehensive Risk Management: We have developed a comprehensive risk management plan to address potential challenges and ensure the successful execution of our project. This plan includes:

1. Identification of specific technical risks that could impact the project.
2. Detailed mitigation strategies for each identified risk, outlining proactive measures to minimize disruptions.
3. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of risks throughout the project lifecycle, with a focus on timely mitigation and adaptation.

Community Engagement Strategy: Our community engagement strategy is designed to actively involve stakeholders in the development process. This includes:

1. Regular Updates: We will provide regular updates on the project's progress through community forums, social media, and newsletters. These updates will include milestones achieved, upcoming features, and opportunities for community feedback.
2. Feedback Collection: We will set up feedback collection mechanisms, such as surveys and suggestion forms, to gather input from users. This feedback will be used to improve the platform and prioritize new features based on community needs.
3. Interactive webinars and workshops to educate and engage the community in the project's progress.

Financial Sustainability: We have developed a detailed plan for sustaining the project beyond the initial funding period. This includes:

1. Revenue generation models, such as subscription fees for premium features and partnerships with blockchain companies.
2. Continuous improvement based on user feedback, ensuring the platform remains relevant and valuable to the community.
3. Leveraging partnerships within the Cardano ecosystem to secure additional funding and resources.

Timeline and Milestones: Our timeline and milestones are realistic and achievable, with a focus on incremental progress and continuous improvement. We have broken down the project into smaller, more manageable phases to track progress effectively and ensure timely delivery.

Team Capacity: Our team has the skills, experience, and capacity to complete the project successfully. Each team member brings a unique set of expertise, including blockchain development, project management, and community engagement, ensuring a well-rounded and capable team. The project has High Feasibility and Capability. By addressing these areas, we aim to strengthen the feasibility of our project and increase its likelihood of success.

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

 UI Design and Tech Design:

• System Architecture Design
• UI Development: Designing and developing the user interface for the platform.
• Smart Contract Specifications

Frontend Development: Develop the user interface (UI) of the platform, including the visual editor for creating smart contracts, user authentication, and dashboard for managing contracts.

Backend Development: Implement the backend logic of the platform, including the smart contract execution engine, integration with the Cardano blockchain, and database management.

Template Creation: Develop a library of pre-built smart contract templates for common use cases, such as token creation, decentralized exchanges, and voting mechanisms, to streamline the contract creation process for users.

Integration and Testing: Integrate the frontend, backend, and template features and conduct comprehensive testing to ensure the platform functions as intended and is free of bugs or issues.

Beta Testing: Launch a beta version of the platform to a limited number of users for testing and feedback collection. This phase will help identify any bugs or usability issues that need to be addressed before the full platform launch.

Project Completion Report and Video.

1. Project Completion Report: A detailed document summarizing the entire project.
2. Project Completion Video: A concise video presentation providing an overview of the project, highlighting key achievements and outcomes.

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

1:Dawit Melka- Software Engineer | Competitive Programmer @ A2SV | AURA Research @ UMICH | Full-stack Web Developer

• Research Assistant Intern @ University of Michigan
• LinkedIn Profile: Linkedin account
• Github: github profile

Experience

• Mobile application development
• Web application development
• Software Engineer
• Research Assistant
• A2SV | Africa to Silicon Valley

2: Wendwossen Dufera: Software developer | Cardano Smart contract developer

• Certified Software and Web3 developer.
• Experienced in smart contract development.
• Develops and integrates the smart contract into the platform.
• LinkedIn Profile: Linkedin
• Github: https://github.com/wendecoder

3: Naod Ararsa: Full-stake developer

• Programming Language: JavaScript, C, C++, Typescript, python, and haskell
• Library’s and Frameworks: Plutus, Node js, Fastify, Express js, hardhat, React Js, Flask
• Databases: Mongodb and MySQL
• ORM and ODM: mongoose, Drizzle and sequelize
• Linkedin
• Github

4: Yosef Daniel: Software Engineer | Technical Lead

• Experienced in programming languages such as Plutus, Haskell, Lucid, Mesh and Marlowe to build and deploy smart contracts.
• Cardano Blockchain Certified Associate (CBCA)
• Experience: Proficient in server-side programming languages, database management, and API integration.
• Responsible for backend development and platform integration.

Responsibilities:

• Linkedin Profilel: Linkedin
• Responsible for smart contracts and blockchain related technology's.
• Proficient in server-side programming languages.
• Experienced in database management and API integration.

5: Meheret B.: Project Manager/Technical Lead

• Cardano Blockchain Certified Associate (CBCA)
• Email: anulomeheret@gmail.com
• Role: Oversees project execution, manages resources, and ensures timely delivery.

Our team has actively participated in numerous projects closely related to this endeavor. Each team member is fully committed to executing this idea, drawing from our collective experience in implementing similar projects to a high standard of excellence

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

 UI Design and Tech Design: 15,000 Ada

• System Architecture Design
• UI Development: Designing and developing the user interface for the platform.
• Smart Contract Specifications

Frontend UI/UX Design: 25,000 Ada

• Design the user interface for the libraries, focusing on usability and accessibility.
• Create wireframes and mockups to visualize the design.

Backend Development: 30,000 Ada

• Develop the backend infrastructure for smart contracts.
• API integration and data management.

Template Creation: 35,000 Ada

• Smart Contract Templates for Token Creation
• Ensure that the libraries are well-documented

Integration and Testing: 20,000 Ada

• Integration of Frontend, Backend, and Templates: Integrating all components of the platform to ensure seamless functionality.
• Comprehensive Testing: Conducting thorough testing of the platform to identify and fix any bugs or issues before launch.

Beta Testing: 10,000 Ada

• Beta Version Launch: Launching a beta version of the platform to a limited number of users for testing purposes.
• Feedback Collection and Bug Fixing: Collecting feedback from beta users and addressing any bugs or issues identified during the testing phase.

Project Completion Report and Video: 10,000 Ada

• Report Preparation:
• Video Creation:

Total: 173,000 ADA

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

The cost of the project represents value for money for the Cardano ecosystem in several ways:

1. Efficiency: By providing automated smart contract development platform, the project reduces the time and effort required to develop smart contracts on the Cardano blockchain. This can attract more developers to the ecosystem and increase the overall efficiency of dApp development.
2. Accessibility: The platform makes smart contract development accessible to a wider audience, including those without extensive programming knowledge. This democratizes access to blockchain technology and encourages innovation within the ecosystem.
3. Standardization: The creation of a library of pre-built smart contract templates standardizes common use cases, such as token creation and decentralized exchanges. This standardization can lead to more interoperable and reliable smart contracts within the Cardano ecosystem.
4. Community Growth: By engaging users through beta testing and community support, the project fosters a sense of community within the Cardano ecosystem. This can lead to greater adoption of Cardano and a more vibrant ecosystem overall.
5. Long-Term Impact: The project's focus on integration, testing, and feedback collection ensures that the platform is robust and reliable. This can have a long-term impact on the Cardano ecosystem, making it more attractive to developers and users alike.
6. Enhancing Developer Capability and Ecosystem Growth:The project aims to significantly improve the proficiency and efficiency of developers working within the Cardano ecosystem.
7. Enhancing Developer Skills and Engagement: The project aims to significantly boost the skills of developers working within the Cardano ecosystem.

Financial Projections and Return on Investment (ROI): The project includes detailed financial projections and a clear outline of the expected return on investment. The funding breakdown provides a comprehensive overview of how the funds will be utilized to achieve the project's goals. Cost-benefit analysis demonstrates the potential cost savings and revenue generation opportunities that the project could bring to the Cardano ecosystem. These projections are based on thorough market research and analysis, ensuring a realistic and achievable financial plan.

Sustainability Plan: The project includes a detailed sustainability plan that outlines how the platform will be sustained beyond the initial funding period. This includes strategies for generating revenue, attracting further investment, and leveraging partnerships within the Cardano ecosystem. By focusing on long-term sustainability, the project aims to ensure its continued impact and value to the Treasury and the community.

Impact Assessment: The project provides a comprehensive assessment of its potential impact on the Cardano ecosystem. This includes how it aligns with Cardano's strategic goals, such as increasing adoption, fostering community growth, and driving innovation. The project's impact is expected to translate into tangible returns for the Treasury and the community, making it a valuable investment that provides significant value for money.

Risk Management: The project includes a robust risk management plan that outlines strategies for managing potential risks and ensuring project success despite unforeseen challenges. This includes proactive measures to mitigate risks, such as technical challenges, regulatory changes, and market fluctuations. By addressing potential risks upfront, the project aims to minimize disruptions and maximize its impact and value for money.

We have developed a comprehensive plan outlining strategies to ensure the long-term viability and continuous improvement of the platform. This includes exploring potential revenue models, forming partnerships with relevant organizations, and implementing incentive structures to encourage community contributions for content updates and maintenance.

We will include a quantitative analysis projecting the potential return on investment for the Cardano Treasury and community. This will cover estimated productivity gains, economic impact of fostering innovation, and cost savings achieved through efficient resource utilization.

Risk Mitigation and Contingency Planning: we have provided a detailed risk mitigation plan, identifying potential risks and associated mitigation strategies. Additionally, we will outline contingency plans, including allocating a dedicated contingency budget, to address unforeseen challenges or changes in project scope.

Overall, the cost of the project represents an investment in the growth and sustainability of the Cardano ecosystem, providing value for money by improving accessibility, efficiency, and standardization within the ecosystem.

In summary, the cost of the project is justified by the substantial potential benefits it offers to the Cardano ecosystem. The focus on developers skill, community engagement, and continuous improvement aligns with the strategic goals of Cardano, making it a valuable investment that can help secure a leading position in the competitive blockchain space.

The cost of the project is justified by the substantial potential benefits it offers to the Cardano ecosystem. The project has high Value for Money to the Treasury. The focus on cardano blockchain paths, community engagement, and continuous improvement aligns with the strategic goals of Cardano, making it a valuable investment that can help secure a leading position in the competitive blockchain space.