Advancing the Impact of Africa-Funded Projects with Data-Driven Transparency

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

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

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

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

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

To enhance the Catalyst Impact Hub platform through robust data management, updated platform features, and advanced analytics that will provide comprehensive insights into Catalyst-funded projects.

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

[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?

[GENERAL] Please provide here more information on the open source status of your project outputs

its completely open source

[METADATA] Horizons

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Project Background  

This proposal seeks to advance the development of the Cardano Impact Tracking Hub by significantly improving its data management infrastructure and platform functionalities. Our current platform, which already features a dedicated website with data on Catalyst-funded projects in Africa, is poised to become an indispensable tool for evaluating the impact of these initiatives from Africa. As we progress, it has become clear that a more robust system for data gathering, sorting, and analysis is essential to truly assess the contributions of these projects to the Cardano ecosystem.

With the help of this grant, we aim to enhance the Hub’s ability to collect, analyze, and display data, ensuring that stakeholders within the Cardano ecosystem are equipped with comprehensive insights to drive informed decision-making and promote sustainable growth.

 While the current platform provides stakeholders with access to a centralized database of funded projects, there remains a need for deeper insights. Key questions such as how many developers, proposers, and reviewers have been onboarded, or how much Cardano infrastructure has been adopted across African initiatives, require further investigation. Our mission is to answer these questions by improving the existing platform’s data management capabilities and upgrading its features to deliver a more comprehensive and user-friendly experience.

Project Overview 

This proposal outlines our strategic initiative to enhance the data gathering, sorting, and analysis processes within the Project Catalyst Impact Hub. By focusing on these key areas, we aim to deliver stakeholders with more accurate, actionable insights that drive informed decision-making. Additionally, we currently have funds 8 and 9 in place. Therefore, we propose upgrading the existing platform's features to improve data management, platform functionality and user accessibility. Our overarching goal is to develop a robust tool that effectively tracks the impact of Catalyst-funded projects, particularly those originating from Africa, thereby fostering greater transparency and accountability within the ecosystem. This project seeks to complement our work in advancing the progress that has already been made.

KEY FOCUS AREAS

Data Gathering, Sorting, and Analysis  

   Our primary focus is on improving the platform’s capacity to gather, organize, and analyze data. This will ensure a deeper understanding of the impact African projects have had on the Cardano ecosystem from the onset of catalyst especially from fund 1 to the more recent funding round– fund 12.

   - Comprehensive Data Gathering: We will expand our research team to include experts in blockchain and socio-economic impact studies, who will systematically collect data from African projects funded through Catalyst. Their efforts will ensure that the platform contains detailed, up-to-date information on project performance.

   - Data Sorting and Categorization: With the aid of advanced sorting algorithms and frameworks, our team will create more precise data filters that cater to the needs of different stakeholders. This will allow for more efficient categorization by region, sector, and project type, making the platform more user-friendly and efficient.

 - Data Analysis and Reporting: Hiring experienced data analysts will allow us to apply advanced analytical models to the gathered data, turning raw information into insightful reports. These reports will focus on key metrics like social, economic, and technological impact, providing stakeholders with actionable insights that guide future funding and development efforts.

Platform Upgrades  

  In tandem with our data management improvements, we propose upgrading the platform’s core functionalities to make it more accessible and valuable to users. These upgrades include:

•    Enhanced User Interface and Experience (UI/UX): A redesigned interface will make the platform more intuitive and easier to navigate for both seasoned and new users.

•    Advanced Data Visualization Tools: New interactive tools, such as dynamic dashboards and real-time reporting, will enable users to engage more deeply with the data and derive meaningful insights.

• Improved Search and Filter Options: With upgraded filtering and search functionalities, stakeholders can easily locate projects by specific criteria, such as region, funding amount, or project type, improving the overall usability of the platform.

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

Benefits

The main benefits of this project to the Cardano Catalyst ecosystem include:

Centralized Information Access

•  Stakeholders will have a unified platform to access comprehensive and up-to-date information on funded projects in Africa.
•  Eliminates the need to rely on scattered sources, saving time and providing a consolidated view of project progress.

Enhanced Visibility and Awareness

•  The hub will increase the visibility of funded projects, attracting new participants to Project Catalyst.
•  Raises awareness within the wider Cardano community about the positive impact of projects on the African continent.

 Informed Decision-Making

•   Stakeholders can make informed decisions by easily discovering, tracking, and measuring the success and impact of funded projects.
•  Identifies trends, success factors, and areas for improvement, contributing to more effective decision-making within the Cardano ecosystem.

Community Engagement and Collaboration

•   Fosters collaboration by involving stakeholders from the Cardano community in the development and maintenance of the hub.
•    Encourages community engagement through a collaborative approach to ensure the hub meets the needs of the Cardano ecosystem.

 Comprehensive Monitoring and Evaluation

•   The hub provides a centralized platform for monitoring and tracking project deliverables, milestones, and achievements.
•    Offers dashboards and reports to measure the social, economic, and technological impact of funded projects.

Storytelling and Showcasing Success

•  Showcases success stories, testimonials, and videos, creating a positive narrative around funded projects.
•  Highlights the tangible and positive impact of projects on individuals and communities, fostering a sense of accomplishment within the Cardano community.

 Scalable and Replicable Model

Establishes a scalable model that can be replicated in other regions, further expanding the impact and reach of Project Catalyst globally.

Sets a precedent for creating similar hubs in different locations, contributing to the growth and success of the Cardano 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?

ACCOUNTABILITY AND CAPACITY

We have a experienced and qualified individuals with a proven track record of success in developing and delivering complex projects. We are also committed to transparency and accountability in all aspects of our work.

Catalyst Ecosystem Engagement

Our team has been active in the Catalyst ecosystem since Fund 8, serving as Challenge Team members in development and infrastructure. We have also been involved as Community Advisors, voters, and proponents.

Project Leadership and Experience

We have led multiple initiatives funded by the Catalyst community, executing three community-funded, open-source projects that are available for community verification.

Accountability and Transparency

We ensure transparency by documenting all project stages, including video recordings, and sharing monthly reports across Catalyst-affiliated social media platforms.

Commitment to Community Verification

We submit reports for community validation after project completion and remain dedicated to advancing Catalyst's goals with a focus on credibility and impactful results.

VALIDATION

To validate the feasibility of our approach, we employ the following strategies:

1. Pilot Testing: Before full-scale implementation, we conduct pilot tests to validate the effectiveness and feasibility of our approach. These pilot tests allow us to identify potential challenges, refine our methodologies, and assess scalability, ensuring that our approach is practical and viable in real-world scenarios.
2. Stakeholder Consultation: We engage stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle to gather insights, solicit feedback, and address concerns. By consulting with stakeholders, including project beneficiaries, funders, and domain experts, we validate the relevance and feasibility of our approach, ensuring alignment with stakeholders' needs and expectations.
3. Risk Assessment: We conduct comprehensive risk assessments to identify potential obstacles, uncertainties, and dependencies that may impact project execution. By proactively addressing risks and developing contingency plans, we mitigate potential barriers to success and enhance the feasibility of our approach.
4. Continuous Monitoring and Evaluation: Throughout project implementation, we establish monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track progress, measure outcomes, and identify areas for improvement. By continuously monitoring project performance and outcomes, we validate the feasibility of our approach, making adjustments as needed to ensure successful project delivery.

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

Research Work for Data Gathering

Milestone Output: Comprehensive data identified and procured for Funded projects within the Catalyst ecosystem.

Acceptable Criteria:

All relevant project-related information cataloged from diverse sources.

Access secured to primary and secondary data sources.

Milestone 2: Research Work for Data Sorting and analysis

Milestone Output: Robust sorting mechanisms developed, to categorize projects based on key parameters.

Acceptable Criteria:

Document detailing systematic categorization approach and analysis

Close out report

Close out video

OUTPUT

• To create Close out report
• To create Close out video

ACCEPTANCE CRITERIA

• Evidence of Close out report
• Evidence of Close out video

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

In addition to our core team of experienced professionals, we intend to hire additional staff to bolster our project's capacity and expertise. These new team members will bring fresh perspectives, specialized skills, and diverse experiences to our project, enriching our collective knowledge and capabilities.

Asare Emmanuel - Researcher and Administrator

Emmanuel is currently a National Service Person at Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ GmbH) Ghana, after a successful completion of his Bachelor's degree in Commerce, Accounting at the University of Cape Coast, UCC. He worked as a part-time administrative assistant at a firm called Concomitant Initiatives Ltd. His roles included scheduling and reminding the CEO of meetings, taking minutes of daily meetings, as well as filing, typing, and copying files related to research projects. He also interned with the Audit section of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) at the North Kaneshie Area Branch. During his internship, he learned about the practical aspects of audit procedures and how to use Excel to enter and format client details. Finally, Emmanuel interned at Npontu Technologies in Accra. He was tasked with producing a manual for a newly developed enterprise resource planning (ERP) system called Kedebah.

www.linkedin.com/in/asare-emmanuel-26146b218

Innocent Norvinu

Innocent Norvinu is a blockcbhain enthusiast who holds a degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Professional Studies in Ghana. He is the co-founder of Gateway to Blockchain and has previously contributed his expertise as a Marketing Specialist at Tech Markets Solutions. His extensive background, spanning over 7 years in the finance industry, includes roles as a Risk and Compliance Officer. He has been an active member of the community, having served as a Fund 7, 8, and 9 Community Advisor, a voter, and a proponent for two community-funded and executed projects. He participated as a Fund 10 Challenge Team Member.

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

BUDGET

• Research Team (4 members x 12 months): 5,500

• Data Acquisition and Procurement:4500

• Data collection and sorting(including any subscriptions fee for data analysis tool): 17000
• other expenses for Data Collection: 1,000

• Data analytic tool and algorithm Development :10500

• Software Development upgrade (for sorting algorithms, analytical tools, and visualization): 4,500
• Domain hosting service: 1000

• User Engagement and Platform Monitoring: 5500

• Stakeholder Engagement Activities: 5,500
• Project management :9000
• Contingency (10% of Total Budget): 3,000

Total Budget Proposal: 67000

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

COST OF THE PROJECT

Ensuring cost-effectiveness and maximizing value for the Cardano ecosystem is at the forefront of our project proposal. With meticulous consideration of prevailing market prices, our budget breakdown reflects an accurate representation of the resources required. We understand the inherent volatility of ADA prices and have factored in this fluctuation when devising our budget, guaranteeing its adaptability to changes in the price levels of ADA. By incorporating strategies that are mindful of cryptocurrency market dynamics, we have pegged our allocated budget amount to a price between 0.35 and 0.40. Therefore, we believe the budget remains resilient and capable of supporting the successful implementation of our project, regardless of any variations in the price levels of the Cardano coin. 

Beyond financial considerations, our project offers substantial value to the Cardano ecosystem. By harnessing the transformative potential of blockchain technology and the Cardano platform, our project aims to deliver sustainable and long-lasting benefits, creating a positive ripple effect for the Cardano community and its stakeholders. We are confident that the value generated by our project surpasses the allocated budget, representing a compelling proposition for the Cardano ecosystem.