Decentralized Job Marketplace on Cardano

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Leykun Asefa

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

Individual

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

10

[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)

job marketplace on Cardano using smart contracts for secure payments, verifiable reputations, and automated dispute resolution, reducing fees and increasing transparency for freelancers and clients.

[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

The project will be fully open source and available throughout the entire lifecycle. We will use the MIT License, providing flexibility and freedom for anyone to contribute or build upon the platform. All code, including the smart contracts, payment mechanisms, and reputation system, will be made available in a public repository from the beginning. This ensures transparency and allows the community to review, audit, and contribute to the project’s success. Any future updates or improvements will also be shared in the same open-source manner.

[METADATA] Horizons

Infrastructure

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Proposed Solution:

The problem we are addressing is the inefficiency, high fees, and lack of transparency in existing freelancing platforms like Upwork. Current platforms often charge significant service fees, delay worker payments, and offer limited transparency for dispute resolution, resulting in dissatisfaction for both freelancers and clients.

Why This Approach?

We will create a decentralized job marketplace using Cardano’s blockchain to resolve these issues. By leveraging smart contracts, we can eliminate the need for intermediaries, significantly reducing platform fees and automating payments to ensure that workers receive fair compensation immediately upon completing tasks. Using the blockchain also ensures that reputation scores are immutable, transparent, and tamper-proof, which builds trust between workers and clients.

Who Will Benefit?

• Freelancers/Workers: Will benefit from lower fees, faster payments, and a reputation system that accurately reflects their work and skills.
• Clients/Employers: Will have access to a transparent system with verifiable worker credentials and fair dispute resolution, reducing the risk of fraud or mismanagement.
• Cardano Ecosystem: The platform will showcase Cardano’s scalability, security, and efficiency in real-world applications, encouraging broader adoption and usage.

Engagement:

The project will engage a broad range of participants:

• Freelancers and Gig Workers: Offering them a decentralized platform to find jobs and secure payments.
• Clients/Employers: Providing them a secure, low-fee platform to find and hire skilled workers.
• Educational Institutions and Certification Providers: To verify skills and offer blockchain-based certificates of qualification.

Demonstrating Impact:

We will measure impact through:

• Platform Usage: The number of workers and clients who join and complete jobs on the platform.
• Transaction Volume: The total value of transactions processed through smart contracts.
• Reputation Scores: Monitoring the improvement in worker-client relationships and satisfaction through blockchain-based reputation tracking.

Unique Aspects of Our Solution:

• Smart Contract Automation: Payments are automatically released to workers once agreed-upon tasks are completed, avoiding payment delays.
• Decentralized Reputation System: Unlike centralized platforms, our blockchain-based reputation system ensures that both workers and clients can rely on an accurate and tamper-proof record of previous work and ratings.
• Lower Fees and Faster Payments: By eliminating intermediaries and reducing operational overhead, we will offer a platform with minimal fees and instant payments, improving freelancer and client satisfaction.

This solution is important to Cardano because it highlights blockchain’s potential to disrupt traditional online work marketplaces. It creates real-world utility for the Cardano blockchain, driving adoption by providing an innovative, fair, and efficient solution to the freelancing and gig economy.

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

1. Value to the Cardano Community:

This decentralized job marketplace will showcase the capabilities of the Cardano blockchain in addressing real-world problems, specifically in the freelancing and gig economy. By providing a transparent, low-cost, and secure solution for connecting workers with jobs, the project will highlight Cardano’s advantages in terms of scalability, security, and low transaction fees. This could drive further adoption of Cardano’s blockchain by other sectors and industries, ultimately strengthening the ecosystem.

Additionally, it will encourage more transactions within the Cardano network, boosting the platform’s utility and contributing to the overall growth of the blockchain.

2. How We Will Measure Impact

We will track the impact of the project through a combination of quantitative and qualitative metrics

• Quantitative Metrics:
• User Adoption: The number of freelancers and clients using the platform.
• Transaction Volume: The total value of payments processed via smart contracts.
• Job Completion Rate: Number of completed jobs and milestones processed through the platform.
• Fee Savings: Analysis of cost savings for freelancers compared to traditional platforms.
• Qualitative Metrics:
• User Satisfaction: Feedback from freelancers and clients about the platform’s ease of use, transparency, and effectiveness.
• Reputation System Impact: Monitoring how the decentralized reputation system improves trust and worker-client relationships over time.

3. Sharing Outputs and Opportunities

• Open-Source Repository: We will share the project code and development updates on a public repository (such as GitHub), allowing the Cardano community and other developers to contribute, review, and use the code.
• Community Updates: Regular updates will be shared via Cardano forums, social media, and newsletters to keep the community informed about milestones, platform updates, and new opportunities.
• Educational Resources: We will create tutorials and guides to help users and developers understand how to use the platform, further encouraging adoption and fostering developer engagement.
• Partnerships and Collaborations: We will actively seek partnerships with other blockchain projects, educational institutions, and certification providers to create opportunities for workers to verify their skills and qualifications on the blockchain.

By driving real-world use cases of Cardano’s blockchain, this project will enhance the visibility and utility of Cardano across the freelancing and gig economy. It will not only provide immediate benefits to workers and clients but also demonstrate the power of decentralized solutions in transforming traditional industries.

[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?

1. Team Expertise

Our team consists of experienced blockchain developers, smart contract engineers, and platform designers who have successfully built decentralized applications (dApps) on Cardano and other blockchain networks. We have in-depth knowledge of Plutus and Haskell, the tools required to develop and deploy smart contracts on Cardano. Additionally, we have expertise in UI/UX design to ensure a seamless user experience for both workers and clients.

Core Capabilities Include

• Smart Contract Development: Our team is proficient in writing and deploying secure and scalable smart contracts using Plutus on the Cardano blockchain.
• Platform Development: We have experience building and managing full-stack decentralized platforms, ensuring the seamless integration of frontend and backend technologies.
• Project Management: We have successfully managed complex projects, ensuring that timelines are met, resources are properly allocated, and risks are minimized.

2. Feasibility Validation

To validate the feasibility of our approach, we will follow these steps:

• Proof of Concept (PoC): We will develop a Proof of Concept (PoC) showcasing the core functionalities of the platform, including smart contract-based payments, reputation tracking, and the job listing interface. This will allow us to demonstrate the viability of the solution before full-scale development.
• User and Client Feedback: Early adopters (both workers and clients) will be involved in testing the platform during the PoC phase. Their feedback will help us fine-tune the solution and ensure that it meets the needs of real users.
• Security Audits: We will conduct third-party audits of our smart contracts to ensure the platform’s security, especially in handling financial transactions and reputation data. This is a key step in building trust and preventing vulnerabilities.

3. Fund Management

To ensure proper fund management and accountability, we will follow these practices:

• Milestone-Based Funding: We will request funding in phases, with each phase tied to the completion of specific project milestones (e.g., PoC completion, security audits, pilot launch). This ensures that funds are released only when demonstrable progress has been made.
• Transparent Reporting: Regular progress updates, financial reports, and expense breakdowns will be provided to the Cardano community and Project Catalyst team, ensuring full transparency in how funds are used.
• Financial Oversight: Our finance team will manage the project’s budget, ensuring that all expenditures are documented, tracked, and aligned with the project’s goals. We will also use best practices in fund allocation to minimize unnecessary expenses.

4. Track Record of Success

Our team has previously worked on blockchain projects that have been successfully deployed and scaled. These projects include decentralized applications, smart contract solutions, and blockchain-based platforms in various sectors. Our track record demonstrates our ability to deliver projects on time, within budget, and with a high level of trust and accountability.

In conclusion, our experience in blockchain development, smart contract security, and platform management makes us well-equipped to deliver this project with a high level of trust and accountability. Through phased development, transparent reporting, and rigorous security audits, we will ensure that the project is delivered efficiently and meets the expectations of the Cardano community.

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

Proof of Concept (PoC) Development

• Description: Develop a working Proof of Concept (PoC) that includes the core features such as job posting, smart contract-based payments, and the reputation system.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• Smart contracts for payments and reputation tracking are functional on the Cardano testnet.
• Basic user interface for clients to post jobs and workers to apply.
• Secure, transparent escrow payments based on project milestones.
• Feedback from initial test users incorporated into the platform.
• Estimated Completion: 2 months

Security Audit and Platform Optimization

• Description: Conduct a third-party security audit of the smart contracts and optimize the platform based on audit findings and user feedback.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• Comprehensive audit results shared with the community.
• All identified vulnerabilities or potential weaknesses addressed.
• Platform stability and performance optimized for scaling.
• Estimated Completion: 1 month after PoC

Pilot Launch with Freelancers and Clients

• Description: Launch a pilot program with a select group of freelancers and clients to test the platform's full functionality, including job listings, payments, and dispute resolution.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• Successful onboarding of at least 100 users (freelancers and clients).
• All major features tested in a real-world environment.
• Feedback collected from users to refine user experience and platform performance.
• Estimated Completion: 3 months

Full Public Launch and Marketing Campaign

• Description: Deploy the full platform to the public with a robust marketing campaign to drive adoption and user engagement.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• Platform fully launched and open to global users.
• Comprehensive marketing campaign initiated, including social media, content marketing, and partnerships.
• User support system in place to handle inquiries and issues.
• Estimated Completion: 2 months

Project Close-out Report and Video

• Description: Provide a detailed report and video summarizing the project’s impact, including the number of users, transaction volume, and feedback from the community.
• Acceptance Criteria:
• Final report shared with the Cardano community, outlining project outcomes, user adoption, and financial transparency.
• Project close-out video produced and shared to highlight achievements and future roadmaps.
• Estimated Completion: 1 month post-launch

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

1. Leykun Asefa (Project Lead & Blockchain Developer)

• Role: Lead the overall project development, oversee smart contract creation, and manage blockchain integration with Cardano.
• Scope: Supervise the development timeline, manage the smart contract team, and ensure alignment with Cardano’s ecosystem standards.

1. Smart Contract Developer

• Role: Develop and optimize smart contracts for payments, escrow, and reputation management on Cardano.
• Scope: Create secure, efficient Plutus-based smart contracts that handle all transactions and reputation tracking on the platform.

1. Frontend Developer

• Role: Build and design the user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) for clients and freelancers.
• Scope: Ensure a responsive and intuitive user interface for job postings, applications, and reputation tracking on the platform.

1. Backend Developer

• Role: Develop backend infrastructure and integrate the system with smart contracts, ensuring smooth communication between the frontend and blockchain.
• Scope: Manage server-side logic, user data storage, and transaction processing through Cardano.

1. UI/UX Designer

• Role: Design an intuitive and engaging user experience for the platform.
• Scope: Create a seamless experience that allows users to navigate job listings, complete contracts, and manage profiles easily.

1. Marketing and Community Manager

• Role: Handle the marketing strategy and user onboarding, including partnerships with clients and freelancers.
• Scope: Develop a marketing campaign to drive adoption and engage with the Cardano community.

1. Security Auditor

• Role: Conduct third-party security audits of the platform and smart contracts to ensure robustness and prevent vulnerabilities.
• Scope: Provide detailed security assessments and implement necessary security improvements based on the audit results.

Additional Recruitment

We plan to recruit team members with the following skills:

• Additional Smart Contract Developer (Plutus/Haskell): To help scale the platform and support its core smart contract functionality.
• Compliance and Legal Advisor: To ensure compliance with international labor and payments regulations.
• 
  

We have already engaged the key team members needed to start this project and are in active discussions with additional resources through the Cardano developer community on Discord and Telegram. The current team has confirmed their capacity to support the project throughout its lifecycle.

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

Total Requested Funding: 130,000 ADA

1. Development Costs:

• Smart Contract Development:
• Creation and optimization of Plutus-based smart contracts for payments, escrow, and reputation management.
• Cost: 15,000 ADA
• Frontend Development:
• Development of a user-friendly interface for job postings, applications, and worker profiles.
• Cost: 15,000 ADA
• Backend Development:
• Development of the backend infrastructure to integrate with the blockchain and manage transactions.
• Cost: 12,000 ADA
• UI/UX Design:
• Design of an intuitive user interface and user experience for both clients and freelancers.
• Cost: 8,000 ADA

2. Third-Party Services:

• Security Audit:
• A third-party audit of the smart contracts and platform to ensure robustness and prevent vulnerabilities.
• Cost: 10,000 ADA
• Compliance & Legal Services:
• Legal advice and services to ensure that the platform complies with international labor laws, freelance work regulations, and payment system requirements.
• Cost: 7,000 ADA
• Server & Hosting Costs:
• Cloud hosting and server infrastructure to support the platform and ensure secure transactions.
• Estimated for 12 months of operations.
• Cost: 6,000 ADA

3. Marketing & Promotion:

• Publicity Campaign:
• A marketing campaign to promote the platform to both clients and freelancers, using digital marketing, social media, and partnerships with relevant organizations.
• Cost: 10,000 ADA
• Community Engagement & User Onboarding:
• Outreach and onboarding materials, including tutorials and user support for freelancers and clients.
• Cost: 10,000 ADA

4. Project Management & Reporting:

• Project Management:
• Coordinating all project resources, overseeing timelines, and ensuring proper allocation of funds.
• Cost: 5,000 ADA
• Documentation & Reporting:
• Preparing comprehensive project documentation, progress reports, and regular updates to the Cardano community.
• Cost: 5,000 ADA
• Final Project Close-out Video:
• Production of a video showcasing the project’s development, outcomes, and future roadmap.
• Cost: 6,000 ADA

5. Maintenance & Support:

• Ongoing System Maintenance:
• Continuous updates and support to ensure the platform operates smoothly post-launch, including bug fixes and optimizations.
• Cost: 7,000 ADA
• Customer Support:
• Providing ongoing support to freelancers and clients, including live chat, FAQs, and technical assistance.
• Cost: 5,000 ADA

Total Budget Breakdown

• Development Costs: 50,000 ADA
• Third-Party Services: 13,000 ADA
• Marketing & Promotion: 25,000 ADA
• Project Management & Reporting: 21,000 ADA
• Maintenance & Support: 12,000 ADA

Grand Total: 130,000 ADA

This budget ensures that all phases of the project, from development and security to marketing and ongoing support, are fully funded. If additional funding is required, we will explore partnerships or seek private investment to cover any unforeseen costs or additional features.

[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 by providing a scalable solution to a global problem within the freelancing and gig economy while promoting Cardano’s blockchain technology. We have carefully allocated the budget to ensure it aligns with the typical costs of development, marketing, and operations for a project of this scope, ensuring the Cardano community benefits from both financial efficiency and long-term returns.

1. Cost Justification

• Development Costs:
• Smart Contract Development: The costs for Plutus/Haskell developers reflect industry rates, which range from $100-$200 per hour due to the specialized skillset required. By using developers with Cardano-specific expertise, we are ensuring that the project is secure, scalable, and optimized for the Cardano ecosystem. The budget is proportional to the complexity of developing a decentralized platform with multiple features (payments, escrow, reputation management).
• UI/UX and Frontend Development: The allocated budget is in line with freelance developer rates, ensuring that the platform is user-friendly and optimized for both desktop and mobile users. This is crucial for user adoption, and the rates are competitive based on market averages.
• Security Audits and Legal Services:
• Security Audit: Security is critical for any platform handling payments, and the cost of an audit by a third-party firm is consistent with industry standards for comprehensive audits (ranging from $10,000-$20,000). This investment ensures the platform is trustworthy and protects both freelancers and clients.
• Legal Services: Legal costs cover essential compliance, ensuring the platform operates within local and international freelance regulations. This is a necessary investment to avoid regulatory challenges and is priced based on common rates for legal advisory services in the tech sector.
• Marketing and Promotion:
• The budget for marketing ensures that we can drive substantial user adoption and platform engagement, which is essential for success. Marketing costs are competitive and are designed to target freelancers and clients globally, ensuring that Cardano’s reputation as a blockchain for real-world applications grows.

2. Long-Term Value:

• Scalability and Global Reach: Once developed, the platform can scale to serve freelancers and clients worldwide, offering ongoing value to the Cardano ecosystem through increased transaction volume and user engagement.
• Lower Fees and Faster Payments: The platform will significantly reduce transaction fees for users compared to existing centralized platforms like Upwork, giving freelancers more control over their earnings and faster payment times. This creates a real-world use case that promotes Cardano’s competitive edge.
• Wider Cardano Adoption: This project highlights how blockchain technology can be used to transform the freelance economy, further promoting Cardano as a leading solution for decentralized applications. As more users adopt the platform, this will increase the number of ADA transactions, benefiting the broader ecosystem.

3. Responsible Fund Management

• The budget is distributed across key areas such as development, marketing, and security to ensure the project’s long-term success. By applying a milestone-based approach to funding, we ensure transparency and accountability, releasing funds as specific milestones are achieved.

promoting trust and security, and driving the adoption of Cardano in a fast-growing sector. The cost breakdown aligns with industry standards, ensuring both high-quality delivery and responsible use of funds.