Financial Operating System for the $200B+ Global Ecotourism Industry

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Cole Bartlett

[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

GoKey Finance - https://gokey.finance/

[GENERAL] Requested funds in ada

150000

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

8

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

No

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

Research and develop a decentralized network connecting ecolodges, local communities, and international stakeholders, improving sustainability, access to capital, and operational efficiency.

[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

Our platform will be fully open source, allowing developers and stakeholders to contribute to and use the tools, ensuring transparency and community engagement.

[METADATA] Horizons

Connected Community

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Our solution is to create a playbook, with research and development into designing and integrating a decentralized financial operating system that addresses the critical challenges faced by the ecotourism sector.

By leveraging blockchain technology, we will create a tokenized ecosystem specifically designed to connect ecolodge operators, local communities, international guests, investors, and sustainability stakeholders.

This solution will improve capital flow, enhance operational transparency, and boost sustainable practices, while also streamlining the guest experience.

Key Components:

Tokenized Financial Network:

The core of our solution lies in the creation of a research backed, decentralized, token-based financial model that allows ecolodge operators to access capital from a global pool of investors, guests, and eco-conscious organizations.

This network eliminates the reliance on traditional financial institutions and provides a fluid, borderless method of exchanging value, reducing the friction caused by fluctuating foreign currency exchange rates.

• Access capital and secure investments through token offerings, providing a novel way to raise funds for operations and expansion.

• Create internal currency systems (community-based tokens) for use within the ecolodge and surrounding communities, reducing dependency on foreign currency exchanges and increasing local economic resilience.

• Track and manage sustainability initiatives, where tokens can represent environmental assets, such as carbon credits, protected land, or biodiversity conservation.

Eco-token Economy:

• Payment Facilitation: Ecolodges will be able to accept payments directly in tokens from international guests, bypassing traditional currency exchange rates and reducing transaction fees.

• Incentives for Sustainable Behavior: Guests and communities can earn tokens for engaging in sustainable activities, such as supporting local eco-projects, participating in conservation efforts, or reducing their carbon footprint during their stay. These tokens can then be redeemed for services, products, or future stays at ecolodges within the network.

Hyper-Local Impact & Community Engagement:

Local communities around ecolodges will benefit from the platform’s decentralized currency model. With the introduction of community tokens, local artisans, farmers, and service providers can accept payments from tourists without relying on unstable or costly fiat currencies.

Decentralized Governance:

Through Cardano’s governance framework, ecolodges and stakeholders will participate in platform decision-making and updates to sustainability standards, fund allocations, and the onboarding of new ecolodges. This ensures the platform remains aligned with the ecotourism sector’s values.

We will also integrate governance models similar to GoKey’s legally compliant Sub DAOs. These Sub DAOs will allow individual ecolodges or regions to form their own governance bodies, granting them autonomy over local decisions while remaining part of the broader ecosystem. This model will introduce new, scalable governance structures that ensure both legal compliance and community-driven decision-making, strengthening the ecolodge landscape.

Scalability and Global Reach

The platform’s open-source nature will allow for rapid scalability across the global ecotourism industry. We will start by onboarding a select group of ecolodges, building upon our successful pilot program with Indonesia’s Rimba Non Profit Organisation and Ecolodge.

Once the system goes through a research phase and POC, we will expand to other regions with the goal of connecting hundreds of ecolodges to the decentralized financial network.

This global approach will create a unified ecosystem where ecolodges can share best practices, resources, and guests, leading to increased sustainability and financial resilience.

Integrating Unbox Smart Tokens

The proposal will focus on researching how to integrate Unbox Smart Tokens into our decentralized financial model, enhancing both capital flow and operational transparency across the ecotourism sector. By leveraging Unbox’s tokenization capabilities, the project aims to create a seamless, token-based financial network that allows ecolodge operators to access global investments, streamline payments, and foster local economic resilience.

This research will explore the creation of community-based tokens for internal use, tracking sustainability initiatives, and offering guests incentives for sustainable behavior through eco-tokens. Unbox Smart Tokens will play a key role in adding more value into the intergations between ecolodges and their stake holders. Programmable Smart Tokens will help with decentralized governance models, giving ecolodges and stakeholders autonomy over local decisions while remaining connected to the broader ecosystem.

This integration will ultimately support the scalability of the platform, allowing it to reach a global network of ecolodges, enhancing both financial resilience and sustainable practices in the industry.

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

Our project will introduce Cardano to the $200 billion global ecotourism industry, providing significant exposure to a vast new market. By integrating ecolodges, tourists, and local communities into a blockchain-based financial system, Cardano will gain visibility and adoption within a growing industry that prioritizes sustainability and transparency.

Through the use of tokenized financial models and decentralized governance, the project will demonstrate how Cardano’s blockchain technology can solve real-world challenges in ecotourism. This exposure will position Cardano as a leader in providing sustainable, innovative solutions for businesses, driving further interest and adoption within this lucrative sector.

The development of a decentralized token economy for ecotourism on Cardano would not only enhance the community's role in promoting sustainability but also drive adoption and significantly increase transaction activity on-chain. By connecting ecotourism stakeholders—ranging from local communities to international investors—this project could attract a broader audience to the Cardano ecosystem, many of whom may be new to blockchain technology.

With Cardano facilitating tokenized rewards, transparent funding, and eco-credits, the platform’s functionality and real-world applications will be showcased to a wider, more diverse group of users. This would position Cardano as a leading blockchain for sustainable development, encouraging existing community members and newcomers alike to engage in eco-friendly tourism projects.

In addition, as ecotourism operators, travelers, and investors use Cardano for transactions related to this decentralized network, the resulting growth in on-chain transactions would be substantial. Ecotourism stakeholders would need to transact in tokenized assets for services, environmental credits, and governance purposes, fueling a consistent and diverse stream of transactions on the Cardano blockchain. This increased transaction activity could drive demand for Cardano’s native ADA token and strengthen the network’s overall liquidity. By boosting transaction volume, this project would contribute to the overall growth and robustness of Cardano’s ecosystem, paving the way for further adoption and innovation in the DeFi space, with a unique focus on ecological sustainability.

[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?

Our experience working with Rimba Non Profit Organisation and Ecolodge, based in Indonesia and Sustainable ADA’s success in onboarding them to Web3, and Cardano, demonstrates our capability to deliver this project.

At Sustainable ADA and Impact Web3, our team have been involved with spearheading research and development of impact measurement systems within the Cardano and Catalyst ecosystem. We have a strong track record of successfully managing our projects and funds.

The collaboration with GoKey adds expertise in real estate, governance, tokenization and decentralized finance.

We will validate our approach by analysing:

• Ecolodge Onboarding Metrics: A detailed analysis of the number and diversity of ecolodges successfully integrated into the decentralized platform, along with their regional distribution and operational scale.

• Capital Flow Analysis: Research into the amount of capital raised through tokenized investments and microloans, tracking the effectiveness of decentralized finance models in supporting sustainability projects and expansion efforts.

• Guest Engagement Metrics: A research study evaluating guest interaction with the platform, focusing on token usage, participation in sustainability initiatives, and feedback on the decentralized system's impact on their overall experience.

• Sustainability Impact Assessment: Quantitative research on sustainability improvements, including for example, verified carbon offset initiatives, biodiversity conservation, and local community development. This will involve tracking tokenized rewards for sustainable actions and correlating these with measurable environmental outcomes.

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

Research and Feasibility Study

Output: 

• A comprehensive research and feasibility study, including market analysis, legal review, and exploration of blockchain's potential in addressing ecotourism challenges.

Accepted Criteria:

• Completed research report identifying key challenges and opportunities for blockchain adoption in the ecotourism sector.
• Legal and regulatory analysis to ensure compliance with global ecotourism and blockchain standards.
• Feasibility assessment of blockchain models and tokenization frameworks for potential use in ecolodges.

Evidence Criterion: Submission of a comprehensive research report covering market analysis, legal review, and feasibility of blockchain models for ecotourism.

Conceptual Platform and Token Model Design

Output: 

• Development of a conceptual design for a decentralized financial platform, including a theoretical token economy and governance models, with a focus on scalability and legal compliance (integrating GoKey Sub DAOs as a model).

Accepted Criteria:

• Finalized conceptual platform architecture and token economic model, including governance structures.
• Validation of the token economic model through stakeholder feedback and theoretical analysis.
• Compliance review ensuring that the proposed model meets legal requirements in target regions.

Evidence Criterion: Presentation of a finalized conceptual design for the platform and token model, validated for feasibility and compliance.

Simulation of Pilot Program with Ecolodges

Output: 

• A simulation-based pilot program involving a hypothetical model of five ecolodges using the platform and tokenized ecosystem to test viability in a controlled, theoretical environment.

Accepted Criteria:

• Completion of simulated token transactions between ecolodges, guests, and local communities.
• Research-based feedback gathered from simulated stakeholders on the conceptual platform's functionality and potential impact.
• Analysis of the simulation results, refining the model based on findings.

Evidence Criterion: Completion of a simulated pilot with documented token transactions and feedback from hypothetical stakeholders.

Model Refinement and Community Engagement Strategy

Output: 

• Further development of the decentralized financial model, incorporating feedback and creating a detailed community engagement strategy for potential future implementations.

Accepted Criteria:

• Final model refinement based on the outcomes of the simulation and stakeholder research.
• Development of a theoretical community engagement strategy to guide future implementation in real-world settings.
• Research report on potential barriers and strategies for scaling the model across different regions.

Evidence Criterion: Delivery of a refined model incorporating simulation feedback and a community engagement strategy.

Research Report and Proof of Concept (POC)

Output: 

• A comprehensive research report and proof of concept (POC) demonstrating how the decentralized financial network can scale based on the theoretical experience with 5 ecolodges.

Accepted Criteria:

• Final research report outlining potential scalability, network benefits, and sustainability outcomes, supported by theoretical data and analysis.
• Verified data from the model simulations on token usage, transaction volumes, and the model's impact on sustainability efforts.
• A detailed POC that demonstrates the feasibility of expanding the decentralized financial network globally in future real-world implementations.

Evidence Criterion: Submission of a final research report with POC demonstrating the decentralized network’s scalability and potential global impact.

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

The collaboration between Sustainable ADA and GoKey strengthens the project by combining Sustainable ADA’s expertise in eco-focused blockchain solutions with GoKey’s decentralized governance models. This partnership ensures transparent management, scalable growth, and sustainable benefits for local communities, enhancing overall project success.

GoKey: GoKey is on a mission to help everyday people access the wealth building benefits of property ownership.

• Craig Immel: Craig founded GoKey in 2021, building on 20+ years of tech-forward real estate and construction management experience. He is committed to leveraging Cardano's unique blockchain architecture and tooling to drive massive improvements in real estate and housing finance and investment markets. Craig holds a Master's degree in Real Estate and Construction Management from the University of Denver. (https://linkedin.com/in/craigimmel/)

Impact Web3 & Sustainable ADA

Research Lead and Partnerships:

Razali Samsudin - Founder of Sustainable ADA & Impact Web3, Contributor at Positiveblockchain.

Razali brings 17+ years of multidisciplinary academic and professional experience from the education, sustainability and social impact fields. Trained in Economics and Social Policy, Social Action Campaigning, and with a Masters in Sustainable Development from Dauphine University Paris, and a Masters in Environmental Technology from Imperial College. Since 2020, Razali has been conducting action research into web3 and blockchain for good use cases across the wider ecosystem.

Co-author of “Recalibrating Value, Identity & Impact Through the Blockchain". A key player in implementing SDG frameworks, he has been instrumental in driving sustainability within blockchain projects and synthesizing impact data into actionable insights. 

Co-lead on the Catalyst Working Groups 2024 (First Cohort) alongside IOG, a first of its kind initiative to provide a framework for grassroot communities from across 6 continents to have their voices heard, and to enable and empower them to guide the direction of Catalyst. 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/razali-samsudin/

Cole Bartlett - Project Manager Unbox, Founder Sustainable ADA & Impact Web3, KOL Rejuve AI, 0KPR Cardano Ring Community Manager, Positive Blockchain Contributor

Helping build innovative Web3 products and communities that redefine value creation through blockchain technology. Co-author of “Recalibrating Value, Identity & Impact Through the Blockchain," expertise in designing impactful, user-focused solutions that bridge sustainability, social entrepreneurship, and blockchain. A strong foundation in economics and sustainability, collaborated with a variety of projects in the sustainability, blockchain, and AI space helping implement forward-thinking strategies that foster lasting, positive change. 

Co-lead on the Catalyst Working Groups 2024 (First Cohort) alongside IOG, a first of its kind initiative to provide a framework for grassroot communities from across 6 continents to have their voices heard, and to enable and empower them to guide the direction of Catalyst. 

• Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/cole-bartlett/] 

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

Budget Allocation:

Milestone 1: Research and Feasibility Study

• Allocation: 30,000 ADA
• Rationale: This foundational milestone involves comprehensive research, legal analysis, and feasibility assessment. It requires funding for data collection, legal consultation, and blockchain research to establish a solid base for the project.

Milestone 2: Conceptual Platform and Token Model Design

• Allocation: 35,000 ADA
• Rationale: Developing the conceptual design and token model involves architectural planning, tokenomics design, and legal compliance reviews. This step is crucial for laying out the theoretical framework and validating the model with stakeholders, which requires a significant allocation.

Milestone 3: Simulation of Pilot Program with Ecolodges

• Allocation: 40,000 ADA
• Rationale: The simulation will involve creating a controlled, hypothetical environment to test the platform's viability. Funding here will cover the development of simulation tools, stakeholder engagement, and analysis of the pilot results, which is essential for refining the model.

Milestone 4: Model Refinement and Community Engagement Strategy

• Allocation: 25,000 ADA
• Rationale: This stage involves incorporating simulation feedback to refine the model and developing a community engagement strategy. Resources will be needed to update the model, strategize community outreach, and explore scaling barriers, necessitating a moderate allocation.

Final Milestone: Research Report and Proof of Concept (POC)

• Allocation: 20,000 ADA
• Rationale: The final phase focuses on compiling the research findings into a report and developing a POC to demonstrate scalability and impact. This allocation will support the documentation of the project’s outcomes and the creation of a viable POC, rounding off the project with a comprehensive overview.

Summary

• Total Budget: 150,000 ADA
• Milestone 1: 30,000 ADA
• Milestone 2: 35,000 ADA
• Milestone 3: 40,000 ADA
• Milestone 4: 25,000 ADA
• Final Milestone: 20,000 ADA

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

This project represents excellent value for money, as it opens the $200B+ ecotourism industry to Cardano’s blockchain, attracting new users, projects, and capital to the network. It supports global sustainability goals while creating financial inclusion for small-scale operators.

Promoting Sustainable Development

• Aligning with Cardano’s Goals: Cardano has a strong emphasis on sustainability, and integrating ecotourism aligns with this vision. A playbook for the sector could establish guidelines for eco-friendly practices and promote Cardano’s mission to support positive social and environmental impacts.

• Encouraging Eco-Friendly Projects: With a focus on sustainability, the playbook could attract ecotourism ventures to adopt Cardano, thereby fostering projects that emphasize conservation, biodiversity, and local community benefits.

Expanding Cardano’s Real-World Use Cases

• Blockchain for Transparent Operations: By introducing blockchain into ecotourism, projects can utilize transparent ledgers to manage funding, track environmental impacts, and build trust with stakeholders. Cardano’s blockchain can offer cost-effective solutions for these needs.

• Innovating Tourist Experiences: The research could identify ways to incorporate blockchain for visitor tracking, tokenized rewards, and environmental impact credits. This would expand Cardano’s application into new sectors, demonstrating its versatility and growing the ecosystem’s reach.

Attracting New Participants and Investors

• Engaging Ecotourism Stakeholders: A playbook could simplify the adoption process, helping ecotourism stakeholders understand blockchain’s benefits and attracting new projects, investors, and tourists to the Cardano community.

• Economic and Social Incentives: By offering transparent operations and tokenized incentives, ecotourism ventures can attract funding and tourists interested in sustainability. The introduction of DeFi elements like staking rewards or NFTs could offer additional revenue streams for both projects and Cardano stakers.

Leveraging Partnerships and Collaborative Opportunities

• Aligning with Global Ecotourism Standards: The research could explore partnerships with ecotourism organizations, which could lead to collaborative projects, funding, and cross-promotional activities that elevate both Cardano and the ecotourism industry.

• Showcasing Cardano’s Competitive Edge: By producing a comprehensive and actionable playbook, Cardano can position itself as the blockchain of choice for sustainability-focused sectors, leveraging its environmentally friendly proof-of-stake consensus and focus on impact-driven initiatives.

Value for the Cardano Community

• Job Creation and Skills Development: As the ecotourism sector adopts Cardano, there could be new opportunities for community members to find work or develop skills in areas like blockchain consulting, development, and sustainability consulting.

• Enhanced Community Engagement: Engaging in sustainable tourism projects could offer community members meaningful ways to participate in initiatives they believe in, helping to build a stronger, more connected Cardano community.

By targeting ecotourism, Cardano can both demonstrate the flexibility of its blockchain and solidify its reputation as a leader in sustainable blockchain innovation. This investment would likely result in long-term economic and reputational benefits for the Cardano ecosystem and its global community.