STEM Challenge Platform: Token Rewards for Problem Solving

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Alfredo Alejandro Alvarez Acuña

[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)

4

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

Yes

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

We will create a gamified platform where students solve STEM challenges, earn tokens, and exchange them for educational resources, incentivizing learning and skill development outside the classroom.

[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 project will be fully open source throughout its entire lifecycle, with a public repository available for anyone interested in contributing. We will use the MIT license to ensure that developers can freely use, modify, and distribute the code, fostering collaboration and community growth.

All components, including the backend, frontend, and smart contracts, will be open source under this license. This ensures that anyone can review, improve, and propose changes to the project, promoting transparency and ongoing innovation within the ecosystem.

This open-source approach will not only enhance the quality of the project but also allow educators and developers to adapt the platform to their own needs, contributing to the expansion of both the blockchain and educational ecosystem on Cardano.

[METADATA] Horizons

Learn to Earn

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

How do we perceive the problem we are solving?

The main problem is the lack of incentives for students to solve STEM problems outside the classroom. Many students lack the motivation to practice and develop key skills because they do not see an immediate or tangible benefit. This limits their ability to improve and prepare for careers in STEM fields, which are essential for future technological and scientific advancements.

Why are we approaching the problem in this way?

We chose to gamify learning because gamification and rewards have proven to be effective tools for increasing user engagement and participation. By using Cardano's blockchain, we can not only offer tokenized rewards but also ensure that these rewards are transparent, secure, and traceable. Students will earn tokens for solving STEM challenges, which they can exchange for prizes or educational resources, creating an ecosystem where learning becomes a fun and rewarding activity.

Who will our project engage?

The project is primarily aimed at high school and university students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It will also involve educators who want to encourage active learning in their students, as well as tech companies and universities interested in supporting and promoting young talent in STEM.

How will we demonstrate or prove our impact?

We will measure impact through several key indicators:

1. Active participation: the number of registered students and the number of challenges solved.
2. Token distribution: how many tokens are awarded and exchanged for educational resources.
3. Academic progress: the impact on students' academic performance over time, evaluated in collaboration with educators.
4. Community growth: increased engagement on social media and interactions within the platform.

What makes our solution unique and why is it important for Cardano?

What sets our solution apart is the integration of education with blockchain technology. Through Cardano, we give real value to learning, allowing academic achievements to be tangibly rewarded. This initiative not only benefits students but also introduces a new generation to the blockchain ecosystem, expanding Cardano’s reach and fostering its adoption in the educational sector.

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

Positive impact on the Cardano community:

Our project will positively impact the Cardano community by introducing a new generation of users, specifically students, and educators, to the blockchain ecosystem through a real-world educational use case. By incorporating a token-based reward system on the Cardano blockchain, we not only incentivize learning but also demonstrate the practical value of blockchain technology in everyday life. This will increase the visibility and adoption of Cardano within the educational sector, attracting both young talent and educational institutions to the ecosystem.

How we will measure this impact:

1. Quantitatively: We will track the number of registered users on the platform, the number of STEM challenges solved, and the amount of tokens distributed. Additionally, we will monitor the number of transactions on the platform and the number of new Cardano wallets created specifically by our users.
2. Qualitatively: We will conduct surveys and interviews with students and educators to assess how the platform is improving their motivation and academic performance. We will also analyze community participation levels and the growing interest in STEM subjects.

How we will share the results:

We will share our results through monthly reports and social media posts, as well as on Cardano forums like Catalyst. We will also offer workshops and presentations in collaboration with educators and universities, showcasing how our platform is incentivizing learning and how Cardano’s blockchain can be integrated into the educational space. Our data will be publicly available in our repository, and we will present our achievements at educational and tech conferences.

The success of this project will not only benefit the direct users of the platform but will also help position Cardano as a leader at the intersection of education and blockchain technology, creating new opportunities and expanding its adoption in non-traditional sectors.

[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?

Capability and feasibility to deliver the project with high levels of trust and accountability:

Our team has extensive experience in developing tech platforms and blockchain projects, enabling us to confidently approach this project. We have skilled developers in blockchain and educational gamification, making us particularly suited to create a platform that merges both approaches.

Validating the feasibility of the approach:

We will validate our approach through an initial pilot launch (MVP) for a select group of students and educators. From this pilot, we will gather feedback and adjust the platform based on the results, ensuring the technical functionality and incentive model are effective before scaling the project.

Existing capabilities:

Our team includes experts in backend and frontend development, with specialization in blockchain (Cardano) and educational technologies. Additionally, our previous experience in project management has allowed us to execute initiatives under tight deadlines, consistently meeting set goals. Our track record includes successful projects in the Web3 sector and in creating gamified learning solutions.

Fund management:

We will implement a transparent fund management system, with regular financial reports to ensure the proper use of allocated capital. All transactions and expenses will be meticulously recorded, ensuring accountability to investors and the Catalyst community. Furthermore, we will utilize accounting tools for regular internal audits to guarantee proper resource allocation.

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

Milestone 1: Platform Infrastructure Setup (Month 1)

A: Milestone outputs:

• Setup of the platform’s back-end and front-end infrastructure.
• Integration of Cardano wallet connection for user registration.

B: Acceptance criteria:

• Completion of the platform environment setup.
• Functional wallet integration that allows users to register and connect their Cardano wallets.

C: Evidence of milestone completion:

• Screenshots of the platform with registration functionality.
• Initial transaction logs from Cardano showing wallet connections.

Milestone 2: STEM Challenge Module Development (Month 1-2)

A: Milestone outputs:

• Development of the system for publishing and accessing STEM challenges.
• Backend support for challenge creation and participation.

B: Acceptance criteria:

• Educators can create and publish challenges.
• Users can access and start solving challenges on the platform.

C: Evidence of milestone completion:

• Published challenges and user participation logs.
• Functionality tests of the challenge module.

Milestone 3: Tokenized Rewards System (Month 2)

A: Milestone outputs:

• Implementation of a smart contract-based reward system on Cardano.
• Distribution of tokens as rewards for solving STEM challenges.

B: Acceptance criteria:

• Tokens are correctly distributed upon challenge completion without errors.
• Smart contracts functioning as expected on the Cardano blockchain.

C: Evidence of milestone completion:

• Blockchain transaction records showing token distribution.
• Reports on successful completion of challenges and token transfers.

Milestone 4: Token Redemption System (Month 3)

A: Milestone outputs:

• Development of the token redemption feature, allowing students to exchange tokens for educational resources or prizes.

B: Acceptance criteria:

• Users can redeem tokens seamlessly through the platform.
• The redemption process is integrated into the Cardano blockchain for security and transparency.

C: Evidence of milestone completion:

• Transaction logs showing successful redemptions.
• User feedback on the token redemption experience.

Milestone 5: Pilot Testing and Feedback Collection (Month 3-4)

A: Milestone outputs:

• Launch of the platform with a selected group of students and educators for a pilot test.
• Collection of detailed feedback from users on platform usability, rewards system, and overall experience.

B: Acceptance criteria:

• Completion of the pilot test with feedback gathered from all participants.
• Identification of key areas for improvement based on feedback.

C: Evidence of milestone completion:

• Qualitative feedback reports from pilot participants.
• A list of actionable improvements for the platform.

Final Milestone: Expansion and Optimization (Month 4)

A: Milestone outputs:

• Expansion of the platform to additional institutions.
• Implementation of improvements based on feedback from the pilot test.
• Release of advanced features (leaderboards, challenge levels).

B: Acceptance criteria:

• Platform successfully expanded to new institutions.
• New features deployed and functioning without errors.

C: Evidence of milestone completion:

• Reports detailing the onboarding of new institutions.
• Blockchain transaction logs showing active usage of new features and continuous reward distribution.

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

We are a multidisciplinary team with proven experience in developing blockchain-based platforms and innovative educational solutions. Each team member brings key skills necessary to ensure the success of this project, with a history of impactful projects recognized in blockchain hackathons and implemented platforms.

Alfredo Alejandro Alvarez Acuña (Platform Lead)

• LinkedIn: Alejandro Alvarez
• GitHub: ale4a

Role in the project:

Alfredo will lead the technical development of the platform, managing both back-end systems and integration with the Cardano blockchain. His extensive experience in creating Web3 platforms, such as Aventura Web3 and Andes Finance, positions him as the key developer for ensuring that our platform is optimized for scalability and security. Additionally, he has won awards in blockchain hackathons, demonstrating his ability to deliver innovative solutions.

Highlighted experience:

• Award-winning developer in blockchain hackathons.
• Expert in Web3 technologies, including smart contract development on Cardano.

Sergio Rodrigo Benavides Rivera (Content Strategy and User Management)

• LinkedIn: Sergio Benavides

Role in the project:

Sergio will be responsible for content creation and user management, ensuring that the STEM challenges on the platform are engaging and relevant to students. With a strong background in designing interactive and educational platforms, Sergio will focus on improving the user experience for both students and educators. He will also oversee user feedback and the optimization of the tokenized rewards system.

Highlighted experience:

• Specialist in creating gamified educational content.
• Focused on improving user engagement and student participation.

3. Wara Lucero Lotito Aguilar (Marketing and Community Management)

• LinkedIn: Wara Lotito

Role in the project:

Wara is our expert in digital marketing and community management. Her experience in building and managing online communities will be crucial for attracting users to the platform and keeping them engaged long-term. Wara will also be responsible for promoting the project on social media and establishing partnerships with educational institutions. With more than 6 years of experience in digital marketing across Web2 and Web3, she knows how to build and sustain strong, engaged communities.

Highlighted experience:

• Over 6 years of experience in digital marketing in both Web2 and Web3.
• Expert in creating growth strategies for tech platforms.

A Team with Proven Success:

Our team has successfully developed and launched platforms like Aventura Web3 and Andes Finance, projects that have been recognized in international blockchain hackathons. This experience gives us the confidence that we can deliver this project with high levels of quality and responsibility, utilizing cutting-edge technologies within the Cardano ecosystem.

Recruitment of Additional Talent:

If necessary, we will recruit additional team members with experience in smart contracts and Cardano, as well as UX/UI designers focused on educational platforms. This will ensure we maintain high-quality output and scalability.

Conclusion:

Our team not only has the technical and creative skills required but also a track record of success in blockchain projects. We are ready to take this platform to the next level, creating a positive impact on both the Cardano ecosystem and the education sector.

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

Our budget is designed to ensure efficient use of the requested funds, focusing on platform development, content creation, marketing, and community engagement. The total budget requested is ₳30,000 ADA (approx. $10,080 USD), and the breakdown of costs is as follows:

1. Platform Development (60-65% of total budget):

This portion of the budget is dedicated to the technical development of the platform, including front-end, back-end, and blockchain integration. The key elements covered are:

• Platform development: Designing the user interface, integrating wallets, and building the back-end infrastructure for managing challenges and rewards.
• Smart contract development: Deploying secure smart contracts on Cardano to manage tokenized rewards.
• Blockchain integration: Ensuring seamless and secure transactions via the Cardano blockchain.
• Testing and auditing: Conducting tests to guarantee a smooth and secure user experience, including external audits of the smart contracts if needed.

Cost estimate:

• Development: ₳18,000 ADA (approx. $6,048 USD).

2. Content Creation and Token Distribution (25% of total budget):

A significant portion of the budget will go towards creating high-quality educational content and STEM challenges that will engage students and encourage participation. Additionally, this will cover the distribution of ADA tokens as rewards for completing challenges, incentivizing users to interact with the platform.

• Content creation: Research, design, and development of interactive and pedagogically sound STEM challenges.
• Token rewards: Funds for ADA token distribution as rewards during the pilot phase and to early adopters.

Cost estimate:

• Content and token distribution: ₳7,500 ADA (approx. $2,520 USD).

3. Marketing and Community Engagement (10-15% of total budget):

To ensure the platform reaches its target audience, a portion of the budget will be dedicated to marketing and community engagement. This will include efforts to promote the platform through social media, partnerships with educational institutions, and outreach within the blockchain community.

• Marketing: Social media campaigns, blog posts, and digital marketing initiatives to raise awareness and attract students and educators to the platform.
• Community engagement: Building relationships with schools, universities, and blockchain organizations to encourage platform adoption.

Cost estimate:

• Marketing and community engagement: ₳4,500 ADA (approx. $1,512 USD).

4. Third-Party Services:

• External audits: A small portion of the budget will cover third-party code audits to ensure the security and reliability of the platform’s smart contracts.
• Documentation and project management: Proper documentation and reporting to ensure transparency and structured project management.

Cost estimate:

• Third-party services: Included within development costs as needed.

Alternative Sources of Funding:

Should additional funding be required, we will seek partnerships with educational institutions and blockchain organizations to help support the project’s growth and sustainability.

Conclusion:

This balanced budget ensures that the majority of resources go towards building a secure and scalable platform (60-65%), while also dedicating sufficient funds to content creation (25%) and marketing (10-15%). This strategic allocation guarantees that the platform not only operates smoothly but also engages users effectively and drives adoption within the Cardano ecosystem.

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

The cost of this project represents excellent value for the Cardano ecosystem, as it not only focuses on technical development but also on expanding user adoption through education. The requested ₳30,000 ADA (approx. $10,080 USD) is carefully allocated across platform development, content creation, and marketing, ensuring a balanced and efficient use of resources.

Justification of Costs:

Development Focus (60-65% of the budget):

1. The majority of the budget is allocated to building a secure, scalable platform that integrates with Cardano’s blockchain. This is essential as the platform’s reliability and user experience are crucial for encouraging long-term engagement. By investing in a strong technical foundation, we ensure that the platform will operate efficiently and grow as more users join. The costs reflect typical industry rates for platform development and smart contract deployment, ensuring that we have the expertise needed without overextending the budget. This focus on development is key to the project's sustainability and long-term success.

Content Creation and Token Distribution (25% of the budget):

1. Developing engaging STEM challenges and educational material is critical for attracting users. This portion of the budget covers the costs of content development as well as the distribution of ADA tokens to incentivize participation. By rewarding students and educators with tokens, we are creating real value for users while integrating them into the Cardano ecosystem. This allocation ensures that the platform launches with high-quality educational content that drives engagement from the start.
2. Marketing and Community Engagement (10-15% of the budget):
3. To ensure the platform reaches its target audience, a portion of the budget is dedicated to marketing and community engagement. This includes digital marketing efforts and partnerships with educational institutions, helping drive user adoption and platform visibility. By investing in outreach, we ensure that the platform has a steady stream of users who will engage with Cardano technology.

Value for the Cardano Ecosystem:

Increased User Adoption:

1. The project introduces new users—specifically students and educators—to the Cardano ecosystem, encouraging them to create wallets and participate in tokenized learning. This drives both transaction volume and long-term engagement with the blockchain, expanding the Cardano user base.

Demonstrating Real-World Use Cases:

1. By applying Cardano’s blockchain to an educational context, we showcase the potential for blockchain to solve real-world problems. This project not only incentivizes learning but also serves as a model for how Cardano’s technology can be used in other sectors like education, healthcare, and beyond.

Sustainability and Scalability:

1. The platform is designed to be scalable and open-source, allowing other developers to build upon it and expand its functionalities. This ensures that the project continues to grow and contributes to the long-term development of the Cardano ecosystem.

Conclusion:

The budget has been carefully calculated to balance development, content creation, and marketing, ensuring that each aspect of the project is well-supported. By investing in both the technical foundation and user engagement, we are providing strong value for the Cardano ecosystem through increased adoption, real-world use cases, and long-term growth potential. The requested funds ensure that the platform will be built with high-quality standards, engage users meaningfully, and contribute to the broader goals of the Cardano blockchain.