Cardano Smart Contract Testing Sandbox for Developers

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Martreza Eshetu

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

Individual

[GENERAL] Co-proposers and additional applicants

The rest of the Sandbox Developers

[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)

A browser-based sandbox to allow developers to simulate and test any kind of Plutus smart contracts with real-time feedback, off-chain, without risking live deployment.

[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 dependency.

[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 sandbox and all associated resources will be made fully open source, allowing for easy access and collaboration within the Cardano community.

[METADATA] Horizons

Developer Tools

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Our solution is to create a Cardano Smart Contract Testing Sandbox, a web-based environment designed to help developers simulate, debug, and optimize Plutus smart contracts in an off-chain environment before deploying them to the main network.

The primary aim is to eliminate the challenges of on-chain testing, reduce costs, and accelerate the development cycle by offering a reliable simulation tool.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of how this solution will be implemented:

1. Sandbox Environment (User Interface and Backend Setup):

• The simulator will be hosted on a web-based platform. Developers can upload their Plutus smart contracts via an intuitive interface.
• The backend will handle code execution in a secure and isolated environment, ensuring no unintended effects on the actual blockchain.

2. Simulated Blockchain Node:

• A key feature of the platform is the simulated blockchain node that mimics Cardano’s behavior in a controlled setting. This allows developers to test various scenarios, transactions, and inputs without the need to interact with the live network.
• The simulator will reflect the real-world Cardano network conditions, including transaction fees, delays, and resource constraints, ensuring an accurate testing environment.

3. Plutus Contract Debugging Tools:

• The system will include a debugging tool where developers can step through contract execution, identify logic errors, and analyze the contract’s behavior. This will help pinpoint issues in transaction validation, state management, or contract inputs/outputs.

4. Result Visualization:

• The sandbox will provide detailed feedback in terms of transaction outcomes, gas usage, and errors.
• Contract state transitions will be visualized, helping developers understand how their contracts evolve based on different input conditions.

5. Smart Contract Storage:

• Developers will have the option to store test results and contract versions within their profiles, which allows for better tracking of contract evolution and performance across multiple iterations.

6. Code and Test Reusability:

• The platform will support reusing test cases, transaction scenarios, and contract scripts. This feature allows developers to replicate real-world use cases and easily adapt tests for different projects.

7. Integration with Existing Tools:

• This sandbox will integrate with existing Plutus tools and Cardano CLI for seamless import/export functionality. Developers can directly take smart contracts from the sandbox to the Cardano testnet or mainnet after successful testing.

8. Performance Testing:

• The platform will allow developers to stress test their contracts to simulate real-world load conditions. Metrics like time-to-finality, scalability, and resource consumption will be recorded and analyzed.

9. Comprehensive Documentation & Tutorials:

• To ensure a smooth user experience, the sandbox will be accompanied by extensive documentation, tutorials, and example smart contracts that cover common use cases.

This streamlined solution focuses purely on the essential needs of smart contract development, offering developers a cost-effective, secure, and efficient testing environment. The emphasis is on providing a realistic simulation of the Cardano network, enabling debugging capabilities, and stress-testing without the need for live interactions with the blockchain.

By offering these core tools, we ensure a quicker development cycle, minimize deployment risks, and reduce the overall cost and complexity of launching smart contracts on Cardano.

Cardano: A Next-Generation Blockchain Platform

Cardano is a third-generation blockchain platform that aims to deliver more advanced features than any protocol previously developed. Founded by Charles Hoskinson, one of the co-founders of Ethereum, Cardano differentiates itself with a research-driven approach and a commitment to creating a secure, scalable, and sustainable blockchain network.

Key Features of Cardano:

1. Proof of Stake (PoS) Consensus Mechanism: Unlike Bitcoin’s energy-intensive Proof of Work (PoW), Cardano uses a PoS mechanism called Ouroboros, which is more energy-efficient and scalable.
2. Layered Architecture: Cardano’s architecture is divided into two main layers: the Cardano Settlement Layer (CSL), which handles transactions, and the Cardano Computation Layer (CCL), which manages smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps).
3. Scientific Philosophy: Cardano is built on peer-reviewed academic research, ensuring that each protocol and innovation is thoroughly vetted before implementation.
4. Interoperability and Scalability: Cardano is designed to be interoperable with other blockchain networks and scalable to accommodate future growth and usage.

Plutus: The Smart Contract Platform for Cardano

Plutus is Cardano’s smart contract development platform, enabling developers to write decentralized applications (dApps) and complex smart contracts. Named after the Roman god of wealth, Plutus offers a powerful and flexible environment for creating secure and reliable blockchain applications.

Key Features of Plutus:

1. Functional Programming Language: Plutus is based on Haskell, a functional programming language known for its strong type system and mathematical rigor. This ensures that Plutus scripts are concise, secure, and easy to reason about.
2. On-Chain and Off-Chain Code: Plutus allows developers to write both on-chain and off-chain code using a single language. On-chain code runs on the Cardano blockchain, while off-chain code executes on the user’s machine, enabling seamless interaction between the blockchain and external systems.
3. Plutus Playground: This web-based development environment provides developers with a sandbox to write, test, and deploy Plutus smart contracts without needing to run a full Cardano node. It simplifies the development process and allows for rapid prototyping and experimentation.
4. Formal Verification: Leveraging Haskell’s capabilities, Plutus supports formal verification, enabling developers to prove the correctness of their smart contracts mathematically. This reduces the risk of bugs and vulnerabilities, enhancing the overall security of the Cardano network.

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

The Cardano Smart Contract Testing Sandbox will have several layers of positive impact on the wider Cardano community, particularly developers, investors, and enterprises.

Here’s how:

1. Accelerating Smart Contract Development: By providing a safe, efficient testing environment for Plutus smart contracts, the sandbox will significantly reduce the development time for new projects. This will lead to quicker deployment of decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts on the Cardano blockchain, fostering innovation and growth within the ecosystem.
2. Lowering Barriers for New Developers: New developers, particularly those unfamiliar with the intricacies of blockchain development, often struggle with setting up local environments or dealing with the complexities of on-chain testing. This sandbox removes those barriers by offering an easy-to-use, intuitive platform that simplifies testing and debugging. By attracting new developers, Cardano will benefit from increased talent and innovation.
3. Reducing On-Chain Risks: The sandbox allows developers to identify and fix errors in smart contracts before deploying them to the live blockchain. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of deploying buggy or insecure contracts, which can lead to financial losses, network congestion, or security vulnerabilities. As a result, the overall security and reliability of the Cardano ecosystem will improve.
4. Increasing Adoption of Plutus: The availability of a robust testing tool tailored for Plutus smart contracts will increase the adoption of Cardano’s native smart contract language. Developers from other blockchain ecosystems (e.g., Ethereum or Solana) may be more likely to explore Cardano if they have a reliable testing environment to build and deploy their contracts.
5. Fostering Enterprise-Level Applications: Enterprises interested in deploying blockchain solutions on Cardano need reliable testing tools to ensure their applications meet industry standards. By offering performance metrics, stress testing, and visualization of contract behavior, the sandbox will help attract enterprise clients who require rigorous testing protocols before they adopt blockchain technology for real-world applications.
6. Community Collaboration: The sandbox will foster a collaborative environment within the Cardano developer community. Developers can share smart contract templates, test cases, and best practices, contributing to a culture of knowledge sharing and collective problem-solving. This collaborative approach will strengthen the community’s ability to innovate and solve complex problems efficiently.
7. Driving Long-Term Network Growth: As more developers and enterprises adopt Cardano due to the improved development workflow, the platform will experience long-term growth in terms of dApp deployments, smart contract innovations, and increased transaction volumes. This project aligns with Cardano’s vision of scalability and decentralization, ultimately contributing to the ecosystem’s sustainability and global adoption.

This Smart Contract Testing Sandbox will play a crucial role in accelerating innovation, improving security, and increasing adoption of Cardano’s smart contract capabilities. It will reduce entry barriers, foster collaboration, and support long-term network growth.

[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 capability to deliver this project with high levels of trust and accountability stems from our team's extensive experience in software development, education, and community engagement. With a proven track record of delivering successful projects and initiatives within the blockchain space, we possess the expertise and dedication required to execute this proposal effectively.

Our team has achieved significant milestones in the realm of educational mobile applications, boasting over 100,000 downloads and maintaining an active user base exceeding 60,000. You can explore our flagship app here: link.

Our team is proud to be partnered with MLOps Community, a global organization at the forefront of machine learning, DevOps, and cutting-edge technology. As hosts and organizers of the Addis Ababa chapter, we facilitate Meetups , YouTube videos, newsletters, podcasts, and more, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and networking. With branches in various countries and partnerships with industry leaders like AWS, NVIDIA, Databricks and more, we have demonstrated our capacity to deliver successful events and initiatives, showcasing our commitment to innovation and community engagement.

Delivery Assurance:

Proven Track Record: High Successfully developed and managed diverse applications, showcasing adaptability and proficiency in meeting user needs.

Experience in website and education: Previous projects in the education technology sector demonstrate a nuanced and high understanding of creating effective and engaging learning platforms.

Team Management: Past roles involved managing developers and products, highlighting leadership skills essential for project coordination.

Our Community Include

• Telegram channels : Ethi_BlockChain_Network Group
• Twitter Handle : Ethio BlockChain Network / X
• General Discussion Channel : Code-Night
• Programmer Union: Programmer Union Ethi

Also we are an Official Partner With Microsoft Startup Founder Hub, We receive more than 45 AI related Microsoft products with a mix of technical benefits and business resources.

We’re trusted by Microsoft!

Feasibility Validation:

• Prior Success Metrics: Utilize past project success metrics, such as user adoption rates and positive feedback, as benchmarks for this project.
• Pilot Programs: Implement small-scale pilot programs to validate the effectiveness of the educational content, user engagement strategies, and support systems.

Capability Showcase:

• Technical Proficiency: Proven ability to develop user-friendly applications with a focus on accessibility and inclusivity.
• Commitment to Education: Willingness to contribute personal time for project development, emphasizing dedication to the educational goals of these projects.
• Transparent Budgeting: Clearly outline budget allocations for development, content creation, and community engagement to foster trust.
• Regular Reporting: Provide regular, transparent financial reports to the community, showcasing how funds are utilized and the progress achieved.
• Community Oversight: Engage with the Cardano community for feedback, suggestions, and oversight, ensuring a collaborative and accountable approach.

By leveraging past successes, committing personal time, and emphasizing transparency, this project aims to instill trust and accountability in delivering a valuable educational resource for the Cardano community. This positions us as a reliable and accountable entity capable of delivering this project with a high level of trust.

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

Core Architecture & User Interface Design(Month 1)

• Objective: Set up the core infrastructure of the sandbox environment.
• Develop a user-friendly front-end interface tailored to developers.
• Tasks:
• Define the system architecture, including backend services, smart contract simulation layers, and interfaces for developers.
• Design the user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) for intuitive smart contract deployment and debugging.
• Implement customizable smart contract testing parameters (e.g., gas costs, test scenarios).
• Deliverable: A fully functional sandbox architecture where developers can deploy basic smart contracts for testing.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• User authentication and access control integrated.
• Basic UI components (input fields, contract visualization) working smoothly.
• Responsive design and cross-device compatibility.

 Front-End Development & Environment Setup (Month 2)

• Objective: Develop a user-friendly front-end interface tailored to developers.
• Tasks:
• Set up cloud hosting infrastructure for the platform (if necessary) or configure decentralized solutions.
• Implement the basic user authentication system and secure access to the testing environment.
• Ensure compatibility across browsers and devices for seamless accessibility.
• Deliverable: Interactive front-end interface with initial smart contract simulation tools.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• A front-end platform where users can upload Plutus code and configure test scenarios.
• Working platform infrastructure setup.
• Basic Plutus smart contracts deployable on the sandbox.

Backend Integration & Smart Contract Debugging Tools (Month 3-4)

• Objective: Build core backend functionalities for smart contract execution, debugging, and error logging.
• Tasks:
• Implement the core Plutus execution engine in the sandbox to simulate contract behavior without on-chain transactions.
• Integrate smart contract debugging features such as logging, error tracking, and detailed transaction analysis.
• Develop API connections to access on-chain Cardano data (for mirroring or testing purposes).
• Deliverable: Functional backend with Plutus execution and debugging tools.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• Sandbox can execute complex Plutus contracts.
• Debugging tools are functional, providing error logs and transaction analysis.
• APIs to access real-world Cardano network data integrated.

Security & Stress Testing, Community Feedback (Month 5)

• Objective: Conduct rigorous security testing and gather user feedback to improve the platform.
• Tasks:
• Perform stress testing by running multiple smart contracts simultaneously to measure system performance under load.
• Test security vulnerabilities to prevent unauthorized access, data leaks, or smart contract exploits.
• Conduct a small beta launch with community developers to gather feedback on platform usability, bugs, and features.
• Deliverable: A secure, tested, and community-approved platform ready for wider use.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• Stress testing reports demonstrating system performance under heavy load.
• No critical security vulnerabilities.
• Feedback report from beta testers with actionable insights.

Final Version Launch & Documentation (Month 6)

• Objective: Finalize the sandbox platform for public use and provide comprehensive documentation for developers.
• Tasks:
• Integrate feedback from the beta testing phase to improve the platform’s UI, UX, and functionalities.
• Finalize all features, ensuring smooth interaction between the front-end and backend systems.
• Develop detailed documentation, including how-to guides, API references, and FAQs for developers using the sandbox.
• Roll out the platform to the broader Cardano community, accompanied by a marketing push to drive adoption.
• Deliverable: Full public release of the Cardano Smart Contract Testing Sandbox with comprehensive documentation.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• Final version of the sandbox launched, with all planned features functional.
• Complete developer documentation and API references available.
• Positive initial feedback from users and community engagement metrics (e.g., number of users, contracts tested).

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

Our team includes experts in machine learning, API, Web, Mobile and blockchain development, and project management, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all project aspects. 

Martreza Eshetu(BSs/MSs): 4+ Year Project Manager | Technical Lead | Blockchain Strategist

• Role: Oversees the project's execution, manages resources, and ensures timely delivery.
• Cardano Blockchain Certified Associate (CBCA) - Certificate Number 5352426

Roza Kassa - Fullstack developer | Node.js | React | svelte | Next.js | sveltekit | Postgres | Typescript | Docker | 

• Linkedin : Roza’s_linkedin
• Github: Roza’s Github
• Role: Responsible for web development, focusing on Web-development, UI/UX design and implementation. Dawit brings expertise in creating an intuitive and engaging user interface.

Girum Timerga - Blockchain Developer | Backend Developer | AWS certified

• Linkedin : Girum’s Linkedin
• AWS Certified Badge : Badge_aws_credential
• Github : Girums’s Github
• Handles the backend development and integration of the platform.
• Proficient in server-side programming languages.
• Experience in database management and API integration.
• Cardano Blockchain Certified Associate: Credential_ID_64821e3c9f1938efcf06fba3

Ishak Sebsibe - API Developer | Backend Developer

• Linkedin : Ishak’s Linkedin
• Github : Ishak’s GIthub
• Portofoli : Ishak_Portofoli

Hilena Abel - Human Resource and Digital Marketing Specialist

• Our team experienced professional adept at content creation, copywriting, and promotion. Hilena will manage HR tasks while leveraging digital marketing strategies to enhance project visibility and engagement.
• Linkedin - Hilena’s Linkedin

Partners and Groups with existing educational and experienced experts

• Telegram channels : Ethio_BlockChain_Network Group
• Twitter Handle : Ethio BlockChain Network / X
• General Discussion Channel : Code-Night
• Programmer Union: Programmer Union Ethi
• MLOps Community: https://mlops.community/

Team Engagement: All listed team members have been engaged and have confirmed their roles and commitment to the project timelines.

 This community are in short 

Community Hub: Our Telegram channel serves as a vibrant hub for local interested in blockchain technology. It's a place where enthusiasts, developers, and learners come together to share knowledge, ask questions, and explore the vast potential of blockchain.

Learning Opportunities: people Join us to access educational resources, discussions, and insights into blockchain technology. Whether they are a beginner or an expert, there's always something new to discover and learn in our community.

Networking Platform: Connect with like-minded individuals, experts, and professionals in the blockchain space. Forge valuable partnerships, collaborate on projects, and stay updated on the latest developments and opportunities in local blockchain ecosystem.

Community Engagement: Engage in lively discussions, community meetups, and awareness campaigns aimed at promoting blockchain adoption and innovation in local. Be part of a movement that's shaping the future of technology and entrepreneurship in our country.

Partnership Opportunities: Explore partnership opportunities with blockchain technology companies, startups, and organizations. Together, we can drive meaningful impact and create innovative solutions that benefit our community and beyond.

Note: Our teams are partnered with Binance Africa and started the Process of partnering with Polkadot., Singularitynet And more

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

Total Budget Requested: 115,000 ADA (equivalent to $40,250 USD, 1 ADA ~ 0.35 USD)

1. Core Development Team (5 months): 44000 ADA

Backend Developer(s):

• Responsible for developing the backend architecture, handling smart contract execution, and integrating APIs for real-time testing data.
• Estimated cost: 19,000 ADA (approx. $6,650 USD)

Front-End Developer(s):

• Focus on building an intuitive and user-friendly interface for users to deploy, test, and debug smart contracts.
• Estimated cost: 9,000 ADA (approx. $3,150 USD)

Blockchain Developer (Plutus/Smart Contract Specialist):

• Develops the core functionalities of Plutus smart contracts, executes simulations in the sandbox, and ensures that contracts are fully functional.
• Estimated cost: 16,000 ADA (approx. $5600 USD)

2. Design & UX/UI Development (2 months): 8000 ADA

UX/UI Designer:

• Responsible for creating a user-friendly and visually appealing interface for the sandbox platform, making it easy for developers to interact with the tool.
• Estimated cost: 8,000 ADA (approx. $2,800 USD)

3. Security Testing & Stress Testing (2 month): 10000 ADA

Security Consultant:

• Conducts security audits and ensures that the platform is safe from vulnerabilities such as unauthorized access, smart contract bugs, or exploits.
• Estimated cost: 10,000 ADA (approx. $3,500 USD)

4. Infrastructure & Hosting Costs (7 months): 13500 ADA

Cloud Hosting & Infrastructure:

• Costs associated with cloud hosting, including scalable server architecture for smart contract testing, simulation, and developer access.
• Estimated cost: 10,000 ADA (approx. $3,500 USD)
• Server Maintenance: 1500 ADA ($525 USD)
• Pilot testing and feedback implementation: 2,000 ADA ($700 USD)

5. Community Engagement & User Feedback (1 month): 8000 ADA

Community Manager:

• Engages with the Cardano developer community, collects feedback, and ensures that the platform meets the needs of early adopters.
• Estimated cost: 8,000 ADA (approx. $2,800 USD)

6. Marketing & Documentation (2 months): 10000 ADA

Documentation & Tutorial Development:

• Comprehensive user manuals, API documentation, and tutorial videos for the developer community to understand how to use the platform.
• Estimated cost: 5,000 ADA (approx. $1,750 USD)

Marketing & Promotion:

• Engages the wider Cardano community through social media, developer forums, and hackathons to drive user adoption of the platform.
• Estimated cost: 5,000 ADA (approx. $1,750 USD)

7. Miscellaneous/Contingency

Contingency Budget:

• To cover unexpected costs, such as additional development time, extended security audits, or unforeseen technical challenges.
• Estimated cost: 8,500 ADA (approx. $2,975 USD)

Budget Summary:

• Core Development Team (Backend, Frontend, Blockchain): 44,000 ADA
• UX/UI Design: 8,000 ADA
• Security & Stress Testing: 10,000 ADA
• Infrastructure & Hosting: 13,500 ADA
• Community Engagement & Feedback: 8,000 ADA
• Marketing & Documentation: 10,000 ADA
• Miscellaneous/Contingency: 8,500 ADA

This budget is designed to ensure that the Cardano Smart Contract Testing Sandbox is built to a high standard, with robust backend and frontend development, thorough security testing, and effective community engagement.

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

This project represents exceptional value for the Cardano ecosystem for several reasons:

1. Impactful Utility for Developers: The Cardano Smart Contract Testing Sandbox provides an invaluable tool for developers to test, simulate, and optimize smart contracts off-chain before deploying them on the Cardano mainnet. By reducing development friction, this platform will help accelerate the growth of Cardano’s decentralized applications (dApps) ecosystem. For a relatively modest investment, Cardano will benefit from a tool that fosters a more efficient and effective developer experience, leading to higher-quality smart contracts and fewer on-chain errors.
2. Cost-Efficient Development: The budget reflects the real-world costs of developing a secure, reliable, and scalable tool. By focusing resources on key development areas such as backend, blockchain integration, UI/UX design, and security testing, the project ensures that funds are spent efficiently, resulting in a highly functional and user-friendly platform. Furthermore, allocating a portion of the budget to cloud hosting guarantees the infrastructure's scalability to meet the needs of the Cardano developer community.
3. Catalyzing Growth of the Ecosystem: By supporting this project, the Cardano ecosystem gains a developer-focused resource that will attract new builders and improve existing projects. The sandbox environment will provide developers with a secure and robust platform to experiment and innovate with smart contracts, ultimately contributing to the long-term success of Cardano by increasing the number and quality of decentralized applications (dApps).
4. Minimizing On-Chain Costs: By allowing developers to test their smart contracts in an off-chain environment, the platform will significantly reduce the number of failed transactions or bugs that would otherwise cost developers real ADA on the Cardano network. This improves the economic efficiency of the ecosystem by reducing wastage and unnecessary on-chain activity, making the network more scalable and cost-effective.
5. Long-Term Benefits: Once developed, the Cardano Smart Contract Testing Sandbox can continue to serve the ecosystem with minimal maintenance, providing a long-term return on investment. The platform can be continuously improved based on community feedback and updated as Cardano's technology evolves, ensuring that the ecosystem remains at the forefront of decentralized development tools.

We Believe this project offers significant long-term benefits for the Cardano ecosystem, providing a cost-effective, developer-friendly solution that enhances Cardano's dApp landscape, improves smart contract quality, and minimizes on-chain costs, all while leveraging a modest, realistic budget.