Empowering Small Farmers in Underdeveloped Countries with Cardano Blockchain

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Milan Adhikari

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

Entity (Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Co-proposers and additional applicants

• Sandip Pandey (Sandip.pandey@renewme.biz)
• Nibesh Adhikari (nibesh.adhikari@renewme.biz)
• Bikky Thakuri (bikky.thakuri@renewme.biz)
• Prashad Adhikari (prashad.adhikari@renewme.biz)

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

6

[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’ve developed a Virtual Farming Platform to link farmers with investors. Using Cardano’s blockchain, we will enhance trust, ensuring transparent fund use & real-time tracking of farming activities.

[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 Component:

The blockchain-based components such as smart contracts for fund management, transaction tracking, and farming activity verification will be open-sourced. This repository will be hosted publicly and updated throughout the lifecycle of the project to maintain transparency.

• Closed Source Component:

The Virtual Farming Platform’s user interface and proprietary data analytics will remain closed-source. This is to protect sensitive user data, proprietary algorithms, and ensure that the platform operates efficiently for farmers and investors.

[METADATA] Horizons

Agriculture

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

RenewMe’s Virtual Farming Platform aims to use blockchain to connect investors and local farmers in underdeveloped regions. Each user is clearly identified, and every step of the investment and farming process is transparent, from funding to crop growth and sales.

By linking wallet addresses to specific individuals and actions, the platform provides full visibility of how funds are used. Investors can track how their investments are being applied, ensuring accountability, while farmers have access to much-needed capital to grow their operations.

Impact and Transparency: All stakeholders can log in to the platform to see end-to-end operations, from investment to harvest, building trust through full transparency. This model demonstrates how Cardano’s blockchain can create tangible, real-world change in the agriculture sector by ensuring sustainable and impactful investments.

Why It’s Important for Cardano?

By leveraging Cardano, the platform not only offers traceability but also showcases how blockchain can be used to solve real-world problems in the agricultural industry to support the one's in real need. By integrating blockchain in agriculture, RenewMe will showcase the versatility and potential of Cardano in driving sustainability and transparency, providing a valuable use case for the Cardano ecosystem.

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

Impact:

Our project will bring value to the Cardano community by introducing a unique use case for blockchain technology in agriculture investment. It will showcase how Cardano’s blockchain can support traceable, sustainable investments that empower local farmers while generating impactful returns for investors.

Measurement of Impact:

• Quantitative Metrics:
• Number of farmers engaged on the platform.
• Total investment amounts recorded on the blockchain.
• Percentage increase in farmer incomes compared to the pre-project period.
• Reduction in environmental impact through sustainable practices.
• Qualitative Metrics:
• Testimonials from farmers and investors about their experience and satisfaction.
• Community engagement and perception of the project’s contribution to sustainable farming.

Sharing Outputs and Opportunities:

• Project outputs will be shared through detailed reports, interactive dashboards, and data visualizations accessible to all stakeholders.
• Regular updates will be provided to the Cardano community through forums, webinars, and social media channels.
• Engage with the broader blockchain and agricultural communities to explore further opportunities for collaboration and innovation.

By creating a transparent and effective investment system, our project will establish Cardano as a leader in driving sustainability in agriculture and position it as a trusted platform for impact-driven investments.

[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?

RenewMe was established in 2020 with a primary focus on supporting local farmers in Nepal through innovative solutions. Our mission is to bridge the gap between farmers in need of financial support and investors from around the world who are seeking impactful, sustainable investment opportunities. To achieve this, we have developed the Virtual Farming Platform, which connects these two groups and facilitates investments in agriculture.

We have already successfully completed several pilot projects, demonstrating our ability to deliver on agricultural investment opportunities and manage large-scale farming operations. These projects not only highlight our capability but also lay the foundation for expanding our operations and integrating blockchain to bring the next level of transparency and traceability.

This proposal represents the next step in our journey, where we aim to integrate blockchain technology into our platform, offering a more secure and transparent investment experience for both investors and farmers. We have a diverse team with strong technical, operational, and agricultural expertise, making us well-positioned to deliver this project successfully. This includes team members with experience in project management, operations, technology, and agricultural training—ensuring that farmers move from traditional to modern, scientifically-driven farming methods.

Capabilities:

• Established Company & Successful Projects: RenewMe has been operating since 2020, with multiple successful pilot projects in agricultural investments. These experiences make us well-equipped to take the next step by integrating blockchain.
• Experienced Team: Our team includes experts from various backgrounds, including project management, operations, technology, and farming. We also have strategic partnerships with Sireto Technology, a Cardano community member, and IdeaBread, a software development company with over a decade of experience.
• Ongoing Platform Development: Virtual Farming Platform will connect investors and farmers, which makes blockchain integration a natural extension of our efforts to improve transparency and accountability in agriculture.
• Focus on Modern, Scientific Farming: Our team includes agricultural specialists focused on training local farmers to adopt modern, scientifically-driven farming techniques, improving yield and sustainability.

Validation Approach:

• Transparent Fund Allocation: Every fund allocation will be documented, and detailed financial records will be shared with the Cardano community. This will ensure accountability and visibility into how funds are used.
• Monitoring and Reporting: We will implement a robust reporting structure that includes regular updates on both the technical progress and fund utilization. These reports will be available to all stakeholders.
• External Auditing: An independent auditor will review our fund usage to ensure compliance with the outlined budget and objectives. This provides an additional layer of trustworthiness and accountability.

Steps to Manage Funds with Accountability:

• Regular Reporting: We will issue bi-weekly updates on both technical progress and financial standing, ensuring the community is fully informed.

All key milestones will be addressed in the next section. Our strong technical team, transparent fund management, and established reporting mechanisms make RenewMe well-suited to deliver this project successfully.

https://youtu.be/Vt--h81s10g?si=TLqymGMR0ZS1k03i

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

Blockchain Architecture & Design Specification:

• Milestone Output: Technical design document detailing the blockchain architecture, data flow, and smart contract requirements. This document will serve as the foundational blueprint for utilizing Cardano’s robust capabilities for transparent fund tracking.

• Acceptance Criteria: Design review and approval by the technical team and project stakeholders, ensuring alignment with Cardano’s architecture standards.

• Evidence of Milestone Completion: Signed-off technical document and meeting minutes confirming the review and approval.

Smart Contract Development & Testing:

• Milestone Output: Development of smart contracts for transparent fund allocation, automated farmer payouts, and investor returns tracking.

• Acceptance Criteria: Integration in Virtual Farming Platform with successful use case for both farmers and Investors.

• Evidence of Milestone Completion: Test reports demonstrating functionality, GitHub repository with code submissions, and testnet transaction history.

Platform Integration & Blockchain Deployment on Cardano Testnet:

• Milestone Output: Integration of developed smart contracts with the existing Virtual Farming Platform. Initial deployment and functional testing on Cardano’s testnet to verify data flow, transactions, and blockchain interactions.

• Acceptance Criteria: End-to-end functional testing on Cardano’s testnet, verified by multiple stakeholders and achieving target performance metrics.

• Evidence of Milestone Completion: Testnet reports, transaction history on Cardano’s testnet, and feedback from stakeholders confirming system readiness.

User Training, Documentation & Community Engagement:

• Milestone Output: Detailed user manuals, technical documentation, and training material on how farmers and investors can engage with the new blockchain-integrated platform. Conducted multiple training sessions with farmers and stakeholders, focusing on using Cardano’s blockchain for transparent transactions.

• Acceptance Criteria: All required documentation is reviewed and approved. Training sessions completed successfully, with positive feedback and increased user proficiency.

• Evidence of Milestone Completion: Completed documentation, feedback forms from training sessions, and training session recordings.

Mainnet Deployment, Scaling, and Continuous Improvement:

• Milestone Output: Full deployment of the integrated blockchain solution on Cardano’s mainnet, allowing real-world transactions and transparent fund management. Implement continuous monitoring and feedback mechanisms for iterative improvements.

• Acceptance Criteria: Successful deployment with zero critical issues and active transactions between farmers and investors. Scaling strategy is outlined for future phases.

• Evidence of Milestone Completion: Mainnet transaction reports, confirmation from Cardano nodes of correct functionality, and investor and farmer testimonials.

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

Project Team:

• Milan Adhikari [LinkedIn] - Project Management: Leads the project management activities, ensuring that project milestones are met and that all stakeholders are aligned. Milan brings extensive experience in project coordination and team leadership.

• Sandip Pandey [LinkedIn] - Technical Lead & Blockchain Architect: Oversees all technical aspects of the platform, with a focus on blockchain integration. Sandip is instrumental in designing and implementing blockchain-based solutions, ensuring that the platform remains secure, scalable, and efficient.

• Nibesh Adhikari [LinkedIn] - Operations Lead: Manages the day-to-day operations and logistics of project deployment. Nibesh has a proven track record in operational management and plays a critical role in coordinating between the technical and field teams.

• Bikky Thakuri [LinkedIn] - Financial Lead: Responsible for financial planning, budgeting, and tracking. Bikky’s expertise ensures that funds are managed efficiently, and financial transparency is maintained throughout the project.

• Prachand Neupane - Agricultural Expert: Provides agricultural insights and guides the project team in optimizing farming activities. Prachand’s role is crucial in aligning the technical solutions with practical, on-the-ground farming needs.

• Prashad Adhikari [LinkedIn]- Python Developer: Prashad specializes in backend development and Python scripting, contributing to the development of the platform’s infrastructure and ensuring smooth integration with blockchain functionalities.

• UI/UX Designer - (Vacancy): We are actively recruiting a UI/UX designer to enhance the platform’s user experience, ensuring that both farmers and investors have a seamless interaction with the system.

• Blockchain Developer (2 positions) - (Vacancy): Looking to onboard additional blockchain developers to support the integration of smart contracts and ensure robust platform functionality.

• External Advisor - Blockchain & Financial Integration Expert: External advisor with expertise in blockchain technology and financial integration will support strategic decisions and ensure the platform’s alignment with industry standards.

Collaborations:

We have ongoing collaborations with Sireto, a recognized Cardano development partner, and IdeaBread, a software development firm with over 10 years of experience. This collaboration ensures that we have the necessary resources and expertise to successfully deliver on our project milestones.

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

Cost Breakdown for Blockchain Integration (6-Month Timeline)

Total Budget Requested: 130,000 ADA

Milestone 1: Blockchain Architecture & Design Specification: (Month 1)

This milestone includes the initial technical design and architecture for blockchain integration. It also involves defining the logistical flow and necessary infrastructure based on farming requirements and operational planning.

• Blockchain Architect (Sandip Pandey): 5,000 ADA
• Project Management (Milan Adhikari): 3,000 ADA
• Farming Specialist (Prachand Neupane): 2,500 ADA
• Operations (Nibesh Adhikari): 2,500 ADA

Total for Milestone 1: 13,000 ADA

Milestone 2: Development of Smart Contracts, Wallet Integration & Logistical Setup (Month 2- 3)

This involves the development of smart contracts that govern transactions between farmers and investors, as well as wallet integration for payments. During this phase, the Farming Specialist and Operational Lead will also ensure logistical systems are aligned with the blockchain setup.

• Blockchain Developer 1: 8,000 ADA
• Blockchain Developer 2: 8,000 ADA
• Blockchain Architect (Sandip Pandey): 3,000 ADA
• UI/UX Designer: 4,000 ADA
• Project Management (Milan Adhikari): 3,000 ADA
• Farming Specialist (Prachand Neupane): 2,500 ADA
• Operations (Nibesh Adhikari): 2,500 ADA

Total for Milestone 2: 31,000 ADA

Milestone 3: Testing, Debugging & Real-Life Scenario Rollout (Month 4)

This milestone focuses on testing and debugging the blockchain integration and rolling it out in real-life farming scenarios. The Operations Lead will ensure the system aligns with day-to-day operations, while the Farming Specialist will monitor how well it integrates with farming activities.

• Blockchain Developer 1: 5,000 ADA
• Blockchain Developer 2: 5,000 ADA
• UI/UX Designer: 3,000 ADA
• Project Management (Milan Adhikari): 3,000 ADA
• Farming Specialist (Prachand Neupane): 2,500 ADA
• Operations (Nibesh Adhikari): 2,500 ADA
• External Auditor: 4,000 ADA

Total for Milestone 3: 25,000 ADA

Milestone 4: Beta Launch, User Testing, & Architecture Review (Month 5)

In this milestone, the platform will undergo a beta launch with select farmers and investors. Feedback will be gathered, and the Blockchain Architect will review the architecture to ensure everything went according to plan. Farming Specialists will also oversee the platform’s performance in real-life farming activities.

• Operations (Nibesh Adhikari): 3,000 ADA
• UI/UX Designer: 3,000 ADA
• Blockchain Developers: 8,000 ADA
• Blockchain Architect (Sandip Pandey): 3,000 ADA
• Project Management (Milan Adhikari): 3,000 ADA
• Farming Specialist (Prachand Neupane): 3,000 ADA
• Marketing & Communication: 5,000 ADA

Total for Milestone 4: 28,000 ADA

Final Milestone: Full Launch, Monitoring, and Reporting (Month 6)

This milestone covers the full launch of the platform, with monitoring of all farming operations and transparent reporting to stakeholders. The Blockchain Architect and Advisor will review the project’s outcomes, ensuring that everything is functioning as planned.

• Operations (Nibesh Adhikari): 4,000 ADA
• Marketing & Communication: 6,000 ADA
• UI/UX Designer: 2,000 ADA
• Project Management (Milan Adhikari): 3,000 ADA
• Blockchain Architect (Sandip Pandey): 3,000 ADA
• External Auditor: 5,000 ADA

Total for Final Milestone: 23,000 ADA

Additional Contingency & Support

This allocation will cover unforeseen challenges, operational risks, or further improvements suggested during beta testing.

• Contingency for unexpected issues: 10,000 ADA

Total Contingency: 10,000 ADA

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

The proposed budget represents exceptional value for the Cardano ecosystem. By leveraging a skilled development team based in Nepal, we can access competitive rates that are approximately 40-50% lower than EU and NA average, while still ensuring high-quality output. This allows us to allocate resources effectively, focusing more on development and integration rather than overhead costs.

Additionally, this project will not only accelerate the adoption of blockchain in agriculture but also create new economic opportunities for local developers and agricultural communities. With the integration of Cardano’s blockchain, we anticipate bringing hundreds of new users and transactions onto the network, enhancing its visibility and impact in an emerging sector.

By establishing Cardano’s technology as the backbone for traceable, transparent, and sustainable agricultural investment, we will lay the groundwork for future projects, enabling long-term growth and further adoption. The potential return on this investment extends beyond financial gains, positioning Cardano as a pioneer in blockchain-based agricultural solutions.