We will develop HydraGem, a decentralized Gaming platform using Hydra and Aiken as a layer2 blockchain on Cardano that ensures data integrity, incentivizes user participation, and guarantees privacy, addressing scaling, trust and reliability issues.

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

K J Giridhar Singh

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

Entity (Not Incorporated)

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

7

[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 wish to build a solution by leveraging Hydra’s capabilities to setup a Layer2 Blockchain dedicated to Gaming by writing contracts for various tokens and their management using languages like Aiken.

[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 success of HydraGem depends on:

1. Access to Cardano development resources and the community feedbacks: We need experienced developers familiar with Cardano’s blockchain to ensure a smooth and secure platform build. This includes access to Cardano documentation and community support.
2. The Technoshaastra team, who will form the bulk of the HydraGem team

[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

Yes, HydraGem on Cardano will be an open-source project. We believe in transparency and collaboration, which aligns with the values of the Cardano community.

License Type:

We intend to use the MIT License, which allows for flexibility in usage, distribution, and modification while ensuring attribution to the original creators.

Open Source Repository:

The codebase will be available in a public GitHub repositorythat will include documentation, enabling developers and organizations to contribute and enhance the platform.

Community Involvement:

HydraGem Cardano will encourage community involvement, allowing users to suggest features, report bugs, and contribute code to enhance the platform's functionality and reliability. A dedicated forum for discussions and collaboration to engage the community effectively will be created.

[METADATA] Horizons

Gaming

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Understanding the Problem:

Traditional Blockchain systems face scalability limitations due to the trade-off between decentralization, security, and scalability (the blockchain trilemma). And probably this is one of the biggest problem the Gaming Industry is a bit sceptical of using blockchain as a solution to the issues with their Multicurrency transactions system.

Solution Approach:

As we understand Cardano and its consensus algorithm, while efficient, still requires massive global replication of state changes, potentially increasing transaction settlement times during peak hours.

The Hydra Head protocol aims to enhance the flexibility of decentralization levels on a case-by-case basis. Not every transaction requires global consensus to be considered final. Most of the transactions can be done within the Game or Gaming platforms. As Hydra is capable of handling multiple transactions simultaneously while arranging the transaction states within a single Hydra head, our solution will ensure that only the final outcome is recorded on the main chain.

We wish to build a solution by leveraging Hydra’s capabilities to setup a Layer2 Blockchain dedicated to Gaming Industry thereby writing contracts for various tokens and their management using next generation languages like Aiken.

1. solution involves developing a decentralized gamingplatform by using Hydra Head protocol on the Cardanoblockchain, which provides a secure, transparent, and tamper-proof environment for in Game transactions. The components will include:
2. Furthermore, there will be APIs that will be exposed to external world so that users can also use the same and extend it to their us

 

Our Engagement Strategies:

1. HydraGem will engage a diverse array of stakeholders, including:
2. Measuring our Impact:

Our impact measurement metrics will include:

1. Response Times: By creating the platform and deploying the contracts and using those in Games, we will measure the efficiency and TAT between Platform & Hydra as well as between Hydra and Cardano Blockchain.

2. Integration: Assess the quality and reliability of responses from this platform for use by various game providers.

3. User Satisfaction: Gather feedback from participants andother organizations (Applications) to continuously refine the platform.

Uniqueness and Benefits of our Solution:

HydraGem stands out for its combination of decentralization, providing incentives and privacy in the Layer2 Blockchainsolution using Hydra Head protocol. Unlike traditional blockchain platforms, we leverage Layer2 blockchaintechnology for the scalability limitations due to the trade-off between decentralization, while also providing a unique platform for the Gaming Industry that facilitates voluminous transactions within Hydra. 

The benefits of HydraGem include:

1. For Users: Enhanced trust through transparent and decentralized token handling and rewards, bonuses for their users inside the platform.

2. For Organizations: Access to high-quality scalable decentralized token management system.

3. For Cardano: By introducing innovative use cases that leverage layer2 blockchain technology for real-world applications, HydraGem contributes to the growth and adoption of the Cardano ecosystem.

Importance of HydraGem to Cardano:

As a blockchain dedicated to sustainability and community-driven solutions, Cardano benefits from projects like HydraGem that showcase the versatility and capability of its technologies Like Hydra Head protocol, Aiken as a language. By addressing critical issues of scalability in the Gaming domain, the decentralized transactions are one of the most important focus area. We will not only enhance the utility of the Cardano (Hydra) platform but also demonstrate its potential to foster meaningful change across multiple sectorsfurther extending this concept in the coming future.

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

HydraGem will positively impact the Cardano community by showcasing the blockchain's capability as well its layer2 Hydra Head protocol in solving real-world (Gaming)problems related to data integrity, privacy, and in game transactions like token management. By leveraging smart contracts for creating Tokens, Bonuses, Affiliates and Loyalty Management, White labels, NFTs using Aiken.

How We Measure Impact:

1. Quantitative Metrics:

• Adoption: Hydra Head Layer2 blockchain installation for Gaming Domain

• Engagement: Creating different smart Contracts and NFTs require during Game execution

• Scalability: Measuring the performance of the domain, by implementing it for different games and extending it via open APIs for other gaming platforms to use it.

2. Qualitative Metrics:

• User Feedback: The in game experience of the users will be collected.

How We Share Outputs:

• Open-source development with code on GitHub.

• Progress updates through Cardano community channels.

• Public case studies demonstrating real-world success.

Our Value to Cardano:

HydraGem will drive Cardano and Hydra adaption, increase ADA utility, and foster trust in decentralized applications, helping the community explore new use cases and contribute to a more decentralized and transparent ecosystem.

[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 team has extensive experience in blockchaindevelopment, smart contract programming, and decentralized applications. We have good hands in integrating CardanoBlockchain. Our knowledge of ADA tokenomics and decentralized data management will enable us to develop and scale HydraGem effectively.

The following steps will be taken for Trust and Accountability:

• Transparent Fund Management: We will use multi-signature wallets for transactions and provide detailed financial reports to the community at key project milestone

• Milestone-Based Deliverables: The project will follow a clear roadmap with specific milestones to track progress, ensuring timely and transparent development updates.

• Open-Source Repository: Code will be hosted publicly on GitHub, allowing the community to track development and contribute to the project.

• Regular Reporting: We will provide progress updates on Project Catalyst, including budget utilization and technical milestones, ensuring full transparency.

Feasibility and Validation:

To validate our approach, we will start by developing a minimum viable product (MVP), which will be tested with a small group of participants.

Feedback from these tests will guide refinements, ensuring the platform is technically sound and user-friendly before scaling.

Additionally, we will conduct security audits on smart contracts and identity management features to guarantee data integrity and privacy.

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

Milestone 1: Initial Set up of Hydra Node and testing it for our Gaming platform (Months 1-2)

A. Milestone Outputs:

• Develop the core HydraGem Layer2 blockchain platform infrastructure.

• Implement basic features, including token creation, smart contracts for Bonuses, NFTs and data storage on the Cardano blockchain.

• Deploy the smart contracts in the Hydra setup.

B. Acceptance Criteria:

• The platform allows execute Contracts inside the blockchain set up.

• Smart contract functionality for tokens will work and transactions will be committed to Cardano Network from Hydra.

• Initial feedback collected from early testers.

Milestone 2: Initial Development and MVP Launch (Months 3-5)

A. Milestone Outputs:

• Develop the core HydraGem platform infrastructure for Gaming.

• Implement basic features, including Token management can include generating tokens, issuing tokens, maintaining token transactions, reconciliations.

• Deploy the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) for early users.

B. Acceptance Criteria:

• The platform allows users to create, participate in, and complete surveys.

• Smart contract functionality for ADA incentives is live and operational.

• MVP is functional with initial feedback collected from early testers.

C. Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• Public release of the MVP on GitHub.

• Detailed development report and user feedback analysis.

Milestone 3: Beta Testing and Feedback Implementation (Months 5-6)

A. Milestone Outputs:

• Conduct a beta testing phase with a broader user base.

• Gather and analyze user feedback to refine the platform's features and functionality.

B. Acceptance Criteria:

• Significant user engagement during beta testing with measurable participation rates.

• Implementation of key feedback resulting in improved user experience.

C. Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• Beta testing report outlining user engagement metrics and feedback.

• Summary of changes made based on user input, demonstrating responsiveness to the community.

Final Milestone: Final Launch and Community Engagement (Months 7)

A. Milestone Outputs:

• Official launch of HydraGem with all key functionalities in place.

• Initiate marketing and community engagement efforts to promote platform adoption.

B. Acceptance Criteria:

• HydraGem is live and operational for public use.

• A targeted marketing campaign effectively drives user participation.

C. Evidence of Milestone Completion:

• Live platform link available for public access.

• Submission of a Project Close-Out Report and Video summarizing project outcomes and user growth metrics.

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

Our Team

1. Giridhar Singh: Project Lead

Role: To oversee the overall project management, ensuring milestones are met and the project stays within budget. Responsible for stakeholder engagement and community outreach.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/k-j-giridhar-singh-a7b80b3

2. Narendra Das: Senior Blockchain Developer and Architect

Role: Responsible for the technical development of the HydraGem platform, including smart contract creation, integration of Atala PRISM, and ensuring data security on the Cardano blockchain.

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/naren4das

3. Pranav Kumar: Product Design and Developer

Role: Designs user interfaces and user experiences for the platform, and Development. 

LinkedIn Profile:https://www.linkedin.com/in/pranavvarshney

4. Navneeth Srinivas: Marketing and Partnerships 

Role: Develops and implements marketing strategies to promote HydraGem and secure the necessary collaboration and partnerships. 

LinkedIn Profile:https://www.linkedin.com/in/navneethsrinivas

5. Arun Sarma: Community Engagement Specialist

Skills Needed: Experience in community management, outreach, and engagement strategies, particularly in blockchain or tech-related projects.

 

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

Budget Breakdown for HydraGem Project

The Budget estimate for the HydraGem project is 120,000ADA over a 7-month project timeline.

Personnel Costs (70,000 ADA): 

1. Project Lead = 20,000 ADA for project management and stakeholder engagement.

2. Blockchain Developer = 20,000 ADA for smart contract development and integration.

3. UI/UX Designer = 20,000 ADA for user interface, experience design and product management. 

4. Marketing Manager = 10,000 ADA for marketing and partnerships

5. Community Specialist = 5,000 ADA for part-time user participation support.

Development Costs (25,000 ADA):

1. Smart Contract Auditing = 5,000 ADA for third-party security audits.

2. Hydra & Atala PRISM Integration = 5,000 ADA for API usage costs related to identity verification.

3. Hosting and Infrastructure = 10,000 ADA for server costs to host the platform.

4. Software Licences = 5,000 ADA for development tools and project management software.

Marketing and Community Engagement (15,000 ADA):

1. Promotion and Outreach = 10,000 ADA for advertising and social media campaigns.

2. Community Building = 5,000 ADA for workshops and engagement activities.

Documentation and Reporting (5,000 ADA):

1. User Guides = 2,500 ADA for creating technical documentation and user manuals.

2. Feedback Tools = 2,500 ADA for tools to collect user feedback.

Third-Party Services

• Smart Contract Auditing: We will engage a third-party service for comprehensive security audits.

• Hosting: Cloud Infrastructure cost

Fund Management

The project team will ensure transparent and accountable fund management through periodic budget reviews and regular reports to the community on budget utilization and project progress.

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

The 120,000 ADA budget for the HydraGem project represents a strategic investment in the Cardano ecosystem, providing exceptional value through:

1. Personnel Costs: Our team comprises skilled professionals in blockchain development and marketing, with salaries aligned to local market standards, ensuring we attract top talent prudently. 

2. Development Investments: A significant portion of the budget is allocated for critical development aspects, including smart contract auditing and Hydra Integration 

3. Targeted Marketing and Community Engagement: Our budget includes outreach to educational institutions and market research firms, promoting user adoption and maximizing impact across sector

4. Comprehensive Documentation: Investments in user guides and feedback mechanisms ensure transparency and continuous improvement, enhancing overall user experience and satisfaction

5. Long-term Impact: By addressing issues of data reliability and engagement, HydraGem will demonstrate Cardano'scapability for real-world applications, setting a precedent for future innovation 

In conclusion, our budget allocation is justified by competitive compensation, essential security measures, and targeted outreach, ensuring that HydraGem delivers significant value to the Cardano ecosystem