Please describe your proposed solution

We believe that our approach is essential because it offers a holistic solution that considers both the technical and business aspects of integration. By conducting a comprehensive study, we can gain valuable insights into the unique requirements and challenges associated with bridging TradFi and DeFi on the Cardano blockchain. This research-driven approach allows us to research the needs and objectives of both sectors. Additionally, by engaging stakeholders from both the traditional finance and blockchain communities, we can ensure that our solutions are practical, effective, and widely accepted.

Our project aims on engaging various stakeholders, including developers, financial institutions, and the broader Cardano community. We aim on an integration between traditional financial systems and Cardano's DeFi platforms. Additionally, we will ensure that our solutions adhere to industry standards.

We will track key metrics such as user adoption rates to assess the effectiveness of our research findings. Additionally, we will gather feedback from stakeholders to evaluate the perceived value and usability of our research findings. Furthermore, we will research use cases for real-world applications of TradFi and DeFi integration.

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

This study will research new use cases and lays the foundation for institutional participants to Cardano's DeFi ecosystem, enhancing the blockchain's utility and reputation. The success of our project will bring substantial value to the Cardano community by expanding the scope and applicability of decentralized finance within traditional financial markets. By bridging the gap between TradFi and DeFi, we aim on creating new opportunities for institutional investors, asset managers, and financial service providers to leverage Cardano's advanced blockchain infrastructure. This expanded participation will contribute to the growth of the Cardano ecosystem aiming on attracting additional capital, liquidity, and talent.

We are committed to sharing the outputs and opportunities resulting from our project with the wider Cardano community through transparent and inclusive channels. We will publish a comprehensive report detailing our research findings, possible technical concepts integrating TradFi with Cardano's DeFi ecosystem.

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?

Linkage Finance's extensive experience in Cardano's DeFi sector ensures reliable project delivery and accountability. We demonstrate our capability to deliver with high levels of trust and accountability.

To validate the feasibility of our approach, we will implement robust financial management processes and controls. This includes transparent budgeting, regular financial reporting, and adherence to industry best practices.

We will establish clear milestones and deliverables, and regularly communicate progress updates to the community.By implementing these measures, we aim to demonstrate our ability to manage funds properly and deliver the project with integrity and accountability.

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

Milestone 1: <u>A: Milestone Outputs</u>

• Research on potential fields where TradFi and DeFi could cooperate.
• Integration of developer and community feedback

<u>B: Acceptance Criteria</u>

• Research on multiple DeFi and TradFi concepts.

<u>C: Evidence of Milestone Completion</u>

• Short documentation on first research findings.

Milestone 2: <u>A: Milestone Outputs</u>

• List of fields where DeFi and TradFi could be combined to form possible product concepts.

<u>B: Acceptance Criteria</u>

• Multiple technical concepts have been explored.

<u>C: Evidence of Milestone Completion</u>

• Detailed list of technical concepts.

Milestone 3: <u>A: Milestone Outputs</u>

• Publication of a detailed research report on the findings from Milestone 1.

<u>B: Acceptance Criteria</u>

• All findings from Milestone 1 are listed in the research report and evaluated.

<u>C: Evidence of Milestone Completion</u>

• Detailed Research Report that is publicly available.

Final Milestone: <u>A: Milestone Outputs</u>

• Making sure the findings of this study are easily accessible for Community Members and other Projects.
• Publication of the technical concept based on findings from Milestone 2 and 3.

<u>B: Acceptance Criteria</u>

• All the findings of the study are mentioned in the the technical concept.

<u>C: Evidence of Milestone Completion</u>

• Technical concept is published and publicly available.

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

Our project team consists of individuals with diverse expertise in blockchain technology, decentralized finance (DeFi), and project management. Each team member brings unique skills and experiences to the table, enabling us to effectively execute the proposed work.

The team composition includes:

• Project Manager (Marius): Oversees project planning, coordination, and resource management to ensure timely and successful project delivery.

• Blockchain Developer (Chris): Responsible for technical aspects related to blockchain integration.

• DeFi Specialist/Research Analyst (to be hired): Tasked with researching best practices for DeFi and traditional finance (TradFi) integration. Conducts in-depth research and analysis on industry trends, use cases, and integration strategies.

• Community Engagement Specialist (Evan): Manages outreach activities, engages with stakeholders, and facilitates community involvement.

Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

The proposed budget for this project is 80,000 ADA and will be allocated as follows:

1. Research on potential Use Cases: 25,000 ADA
2. Documenting potential Use Cases and refining ideas: 10,000 ADA
3. Developing the Technical Concept based on Use Cases identified in Research: 20,000 ADA
4. Outreach and Community Engagement: 10,000 ADA
5. Summarizing Use Cases and Solutions and writing of comprehensive report: 15,000 ADA

No dependencies.

How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

The budget allocation for this project is justified based on industry standards and the complexity of blockchain integration projects. We have carefully assessed the costs involved, ensuring that they are proportional to the project's scope and intended impact within the Cardano ecosystem.

This assessment allowed us to align our budget with industry standards.

Our commitment to transparency and efficiency ensures that project funds are allocated responsibly, contributing to the successful implementation and realization of our project.