# Zcash Open Learning Lab Space **URL:** \ **Category:** Community Grants\ **Created:** [March 26, 2025, 5:56pm UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721 "2025-03-26T17:56:35Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 15\ **Page:** 1
**Author:** ![ogasky](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/ogasky/32/41877_2.png) [@ogasky](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/ogasky)\ **Post date:** [March 26, 2025, 5:56pm UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/1 "2025-03-26T17:56:35Z")
Good day all, please check out my grant application via the link below. Thank you. > > > \### Terms and Conditions > > \- \[x\] I agree to the \[Grant Agreement\](https://9ba4718…c-5c73-47c3-a024-4fc4e5278803.usrfiles.com/ugd/9ba471\_f81ef4e4b5f040038350270590eb2e42.pdf) terms if funded > \- \[x\] I agree to \[Provide KYC information\](https://9ba4718c-5c73-47c3-a024-4fc4e5278803.usrfiles.com/ugd/9ba471\_7d9e73d16b584a61bae92282b208efc4.pdf) if funded above $50,000 USD > \- \[x\] I agree to disclose conflicts of interest > \- \[x\] I agree to adhere to the \[Code of Conduct\](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcg-code-of-conduct/41787) and \[Communication Guidelines\](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcg-communication-guidelines/44284) > \- \[x\] I agree to post request details on the \[Community Forum\](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/c/grants/33) > \- \[x\] I understand it is my responsibility to post a link to this issue on the \[Zcash Community Forums\](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/c/grants/33) after this application has been submitted so the community can give input. I understand this is required in order for ZCG to discuss and vote on this grant application. > > \### Application Owners (@Octocat, @Octocat1) > > @ogasky > > \### Organization Name > > Onose Oghenevwogaga > > \### How did you learn about Zcash Community Grants > > From the Zcash community forum. > > \### Requested Grant Amount (USD) > > $15000 > > \### Category > > Community > > \### Project Lead > > \`\`\`project-lead.yaml > Name: Onose Oghenevwogaga > Role: Project Lead > Background: Onose Oghenevwogaga: He is co-founder of WittyHub, an advocate of blockchain community development and web3 ecosystem builder. He is the project lead (https://www.linkedin.com/in/onose-ogaga/). Here is my background journey. > > (A) Tech Evangelist: I started my tech journey as tech event organizer and community manager with Django Girls (https://djangogirls.org/en/delta1/) and this moved me to organized several other tech events with supports in funding and swags from tech brands like GitLab, GitHub, Elastic, Linode, Mozilla, Wordpress, and many more. However, it is very key to note that I started the GitLab Nigeria Community in 2019 before the COVID 2020 and despite the COVID challenge globally, GitLab became popular in Nigeria & GitLab made me one of the GitLab Heroes. > > (B) Founder WittyHub: By being a tech community manager, I noticed that having a co-working space was a big challenge for developers and thus the WittyHub project was conceived towards addressing this gap by providing an easy access co-working for developers with venue for tech events and meetups in Effurun, Nigeria and we had our very first event at WittyHub on March 2, 2019. The hub was later officially commissioned on May 28, 2020 and since that time WittyHub has hosted series of meetups, bootcamps, training, hackathon, and web3 development training for different brands, and also it has provided co-working spaces for developers in Effurun, Warri and environs. > > C) Transitioning to Web3: Then we started hosting annual tech conference with the event name as, “CodeUp Festival 2020” on October 1st, 2020 with Linode as the major corporate sponsorship of that event. However, web3 started gaining more popularity in Nigeria in that same 2020. Thus in the year 2021 we changed the annual title to “CodeUp Blockchain Festival 2021” which was held on October 1st 2021 with Polygon being the major sponsor and supported by Ethereum and other brands. Below are some of the web3 events that I have organized or co-hosted. > > 1. As the convener of CodeUp Blockchain Festivals, I have been privileged to host Blockchain events in Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda & Zimbabwe. Below are links to some photos. > https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1V7KU9aI6jruklHnAREDdfT0syLHH4J35?usp=drive\_link > https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/mobile/folders/1OPGYCu7IeVTO25OywITq2QLOmrRuCkoi?usp=drive\_link > > 2. I have organized Blockchain event for Zcash with links below > https://oga4sky.medium.com/taking-zcash-to-schools-maiden-event-930a390f81bf > https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1OPGYCu7IeVTO25OywITq2QLOmrRuCkoi?usp=drive\_link > > 3. I have organized Blockchain event for Stacks with link below > https://twitter.com/OGA4SKY/status/1778946772452143330?t=ID6JvfwOgTEq6tJYAjrZPA&s=19 > > 4. As a Polygon Community Advocate, I also introduced Polygon to Nigerian Youth Corps Members in Otuoke, of Bayelsa State, Nigeria. See link below > https://x.com/OGA4SKY/status/1516534245090545669?t=OvCKQUvh4bK7AdT9HF7KKA&s=08 > https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/mobile/folders/1YdcO0mtyToTmQbQxdvynjf5X5lr40FRl?usp=drive\_link > > 5. Just recently I co-hosted a Stellar Blockchain event in the city of Enugu, Nigeria. See the link here below. > https://medium.com/@oga4sky/myself-as-cohost-for-stellar-dev-game-fest-event-in-enugu-nigeria-c54d9fa52414 > > 6. Also recently, I hosted a Valentine PizzaDAO Meetup & Night Party at WittyHub and the link is below > https://medium.com/@oga4sky/how-i-hosted-the-valentine-pizzadao-meetup-night-party-ae76cbb7cfb6 > > 7. Finally, I was privilege to attend an Artificial Intelligence training in China at the Nanjing University of Information Science Technology (NUIST) in the province of Nanjing, China. See the link below for more details > https://www.linkedin.com/posts/onose-ogaga\_i-bring-you-greetings-from-the-peoples-republic-activity-7261393232230539264-1njy?utm\_source=share&utm\_medium=member\_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAKj\_YkBvFwcSh5Au2SJy7bvaiiHQLrF23I > > From 2017 till date, I have been able to impact over 5000 youths with relevant digital and tech skills in the web2 and web3 space. Thus my background and experience, with the support from WittyHub team will be a great booster to the project delivery and capacity in piloting this project for the advancement of the Zcash protocol in Nigeria and beyond by hosting the “Zcash Open Learning Lab Space” in our new Blockchain Building Facility, located in Agbarho, Delta state of Nigeria, and close to the Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun (FUPRE). > > > Responsibilities: To ensure that this project is delivered as proposed. > \`\`\` > > \### Additional Team Members > > \`\`\`team-members.yaml > \- Name: WittyHub > Role: Project Support Partner > Background: WittyHub is into web3 training, events hosting and it is a place where developers code, create and collaborate. WittyHub will serve as the project support partner and is located at #28 Jakpa road, Effurun, Nigeria. > Responsibilities: Provide support team for the project. > \`\`\` > > \### Project Summary > > This project is aimed at creating more of Zcash awareness, and providing an accessible support system base to web3 developers transitioning to become Zcash developers. Thereby encouraging more web3 projects to be built by leveraging on the Zcash Blockchain technology, which will lead to more of Zcash adoption in Nigeria. > > \### Project Description > > Overview: > Good day, we now have a new building for our blockchain hub and we are proposing a grant request for Zcash to have a "Zcash Open Learning Lab Space" at the hub for one year to enable web3 developers that want to learn about Zcash to have easy access to this facility space dedicated for Zcash Learning. Also, this Zcash Open Learning Lab space, will serve as a watch party host center to live stream all Zcash main events for the year to the web3 community members and especially the Zcash community that will emanate over time from this lab. It is key to note that this project is the modified model of "Taking Zcash to Schools" which was initiated in 2023 but in this case web3 developers and ecosystem members come to the lab to research, learn and build projects on the Zcash protocol easily, as they will have access to resources in the lab for researching, learning & building on projects, as well as access to support items such as co-working space, meetup event space and smart internet compactible LED screen for virtual and physical presentations of Zcash speakers/trainers and live streaming. > > We intend to brand this lab space with Zcash logo and designs, also host four (4) Zcash monthly meetups for the year, live stream the next ZconVII main event to 50 web3 developers, and introduce Zcash to 200 web3 developers. We will have one Zcash blockchain conversation with an influencer at the lab space towards having over 10000 online engagement. The lab space will be open to all Zcash community ecosystem members for one year to do their projects effortlessly in the workspace. > > Right now, we have built the facility but we want Zcash to fund the setting up of the lab space in the facility for this proposed project, this space will comfortably seat 50 persons per Zcash event, with a smart internet LED screen for Zcash speakers virtual presentation / live streaming. Also the lab will have 10 laptops for use by those without laptop in any Zcash virtual event, training or workshop. Thus we are asking for $15000 to cover for the lab setup and other related activities. > > Aims: > 1. Empower Zcash Developers: Provide high-quality and conducive Zcash open learning lab space for web3 developers that are interested in Zcash blockchain & privacy education, enabling individuals to understand and utilize decentralized finance and privacy tools effectively. > > 2. Provide Transition Support System: It will provide a support system base for competent web3 developers to easily transition into Zcash developers via access to resources in the lab for researching, learning & building on projects, as they will have also access to support items such as co-working space, meetup event space and smart internet compactible LED screen for virtual presentations and live streaming. > > 3. Raising Zcash Developers: As web2 and web3 developers get to access the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space, and by this majority will transition into Zcash developers seamlessly. > > 4. Foster Web3 Innovation: It will create an environment where developers, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts can collaborate on innovative blockchain projects, particularly leveraging on the Zcash blockchain technology. > > 5. Promote Financial Inclusion & Privacy: Ensure that more people in Nigeria and Africa gain access to decentralized financial tools to improve economic opportunities and financial privacy. > > 6. Strengthen the Zcash Ecosystem: Position Zcash as a major key player in driving awareness and adoption of blockchain technology and Zcash protocol, through the provision of a conducive and accessible Zcash Open Learning Lab Space for Zcash developers. > > Objectives: > 1. Set-up the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space: Create a space for the Zcash Open Learning Lab for easy access to Zcash educational resources, meetups, watch parties, and ZconVII main event live streams. Provide key support system to Web3 developers transitioning to Zcash blockchain dev. > 2. Establish a Fully Operational Lab: Utilize the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space as a Zcash blockchain innovation center. Provide a collaborative workspace for developers, researchers, and startups working on DeFi and Web3 Financial Privacy solutions. > > 3. Host Zcash Events: Organize four (4) Zcash monthly meetups for the year, live stream the next ZconVII main event to 50 web3 developers daily, and introduce Zcash to 200 web3 developers. We will have one Zcash blockchain conversation with one influencer at the lab towards having over 10000 online engagement. > > 4. Onboard Developers and Users to Zcash: Provide enabling environment and support system for developers to easily integrate and build applications using Zcash protocol. Create incentives for developers to build and deploy Web3 solutions leveraging Zcash ecosystem. > > 5. Enhance Zcash Community Growth and Outreach: Leverage existing partnerships and community engagement strategies to expand awareness of Zcash and its benefits. Collaborate with influencers, educators, and blockchain advocates to drive adoption of Zcash. Branding the lab space with Zcash logo and designs. > > > Our New Blockchain Building Facility: > > !\[Image\](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/886b201f-5a9c-4a6c-a058-cab8e12c27ef) > > !\[Image\](https://github.com/user-attachments/assets/47be453f-c161-418a-a50b-e41adecc0d91) > > This building facility has 4 event spaces for meetups, hackathon with an average sitting capacity of 40 persons in each space, also with other 6 co-working spaces that can take an average of 10 persons each. In future, we intend to work on the outside space in front of the building for major events and it can take up to 100 persons comfortably in one space. Also, there will be steady electricity power supply and internet services. > > The Open Call: > Thus our request for the Zcash grant towards having an opportunity via this project to contribute to the advancement of Zcash Protocol and Ecosystem. If this grant is approved, all progress report will be posted via the approved channel. Please let us build together and be part of the Zcash story. > > > > \### Proposed Problem > > 1. In Nigeria, there is the high financial cost of web2 and web3 developers’ core required items such as Laptop, internet, power, co-working space. > 2. In Nigeria, Zcash is not popular in the web3 space and there are almost no web3 solution built that is leveraging on Zcash blockchain. > 3. Zcash (ZEC) and Financial Privacy is also not popular to most crypto users and web3 developers. > > \### Proposed Solution > > 1. Zcash Open Learning Lab Space will provide a convenient support system for high productivity output for interested Zcash developers but without laptops and inability to afford co-working spaces. > 2. With this project, more awareness will be created and more web3 developers will be onboarded to Zcash ecosystem, as well as more web3 project will be built leveraging the Zcash blockchain technology. > 3. This project will encourage more usage of the Zcash wallet and ZEC, from the beneficiaries of this project to the outside crypto communities. > > \### Solution Format > > Key Deliverables: > 1. Set & Brand the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space for 12 months access: > • Provide one 65 inches internet compatible LED smart screen for event speakers’ presentation virtually and physically, and watch party. > • One Year (12 Months) Internet service provision by Starlink. > • Provision of 10 laptops for those without laptop during Zcash training. > • Provision of 50 seating arrangement during meetups and watch party. > • Branded with Zcash logo & designs for the next 12 months. > • Hold 4 Zcash Monthly Workshops in the lab space. > • Introduce Zcash to 200 web3 developers via this lab space. > • Live stream the next ZconVII main event to 50 web3 developers daily. > • Hold one Zcash blockchain conversation with a blockchain influencer at the lab towards having over 10000 online engagement. > 2. Setup & Operations: > • Complete Arrangement. Position the lab space for Zcash research, learning, meetups, watch parties, community engagement and co-working. > • Dedicated Zcash co-working space within the lab to serve as a support center for DeFi & Financial Privacy education. > • Provision of Workspaces for Web3 startups and developers working on DeFi and Financial Privacy solutions leveraging on Zcash blockchain. > > 3. Community Growth & Adoption > • Engagement of 10,000+ people through meetups, developers contest, online content, and watch parties viewing center. > • Strategic Partnerships with Universities & web3 communities to onboard students and developers into Zcash ecosystem. > > 4. Reporting & Impact Assessment > • Milestone Progress Report detailing each milestone accomplishment, will be posted to the appropriate channel for the community to go through. > • Real-time Metrics on Engagement & Outcomes to measure the effectiveness of the project grant. > • Case Studies of Successful Projects that emerge from the lab space, demonstrating tangible results. > > > \### Dependencies > > 1. ZecHub. This open source Zcash education platform will be highly depended upon towards accessing Zcash educational resources for meetups and references to web3 developers transitioning to Zcash developers. > 2. ZconVII Organizers. This will be depended upon towards getting the programme schedule on time in preparing adequately for the ZconVII watch party event at the viewing center. > 3. WittyHub. This will be depended upon for partnership team support in the course of setting up the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space. > > > \### Technical Approach > > Executional Procedures & Implementation Plan: > > Phase 1: Setup & Branding (Month 1): > • Arrange and setup the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space for seating capacity of 50 developers, that is easily accessible and convenient for the purpose of researching, learning and developing web3 projects on Zcash blockchain protocol. > • Installation of Starlink internet supply with 12 months subscription. > • Provision of 10 laptops for use in all Zcash events training at the lab by interested developers laptops. > • Provision of 50 seats and tables. > • Installation of 65 inches LED smart screen for speakers’ presentation > • Paint & Brand the entire space with Zcash logo & designs. > • Host one Zcash meetup to introduce the lab to the public. > • Report Milestone achievement and publish in appropriate channel. > > > Phase 2: Launch & Awareness (Month 2): > • Official launch of the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space. > • Hold a Zcash Blockchain conversation with a celebrity influencer in the lab to have over 10,000 Zcash engagement online and offline, because the recorded video & write up will be posted in key social media channels. > • Organize a high-profile Zcash meetup event to further introduce the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space and Zcash protocol to web3 communities. > • Invite influencers, developers, investors, policymakers, & blockchain enthusiasts to come visit the Lab space. > • Conduct live demo sessions showcasing Zcash use cases, using one of the Zcash wallet for financial transaction. > • Report Milestone achievement and publish in appropriate channel. > > Phase 3: Community Engagement & Partnerships (Month 3): > • Onboard universities, developers, and web3 communities into the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space programmes. > • Conduct campus outreach and online engagement to recruit participants. > • Organize Zcash montly meetups at the Lab. > • Report Milestone achievement and publish in appropriate channel. > > > Phase 4: Zcash Developers Contest (Month 4): > • Launch 3-weeks Zcash developers contest at the lab and it will be open to all, covering DeFi and Financial Privacy projects that will leverage on the Zcash Blockchain technology. > • Organize Zcash monthly meetup. > • Report Milestone achievement and publish in appropriate channel. > > Phase 5: Growth & Expansion (Month 5-12) > • Provide system support via the lab accessibility for developers integrating Zcash into their projects. > • Organize ZconVII watch party event for Zcash community and others. > • Collaborate with influencers and Web3 advocates to drive adoption. > > Progress Reporting & Performance Tracking > • Measure impact through quarterly reports (number of Zcash activities done, Zcash project supported & developed, Web3 developers transitioning to Zcash developers, event attendance). > • Gather feedback from participants and community members as well as grant provider to improve the project. > • Adjust strategies based on engagement metrics and industry trends. > > Final Phase: Sustainability & Long-Term Impact (Beyond Year 1) > • Institutional Partnership & Long term Sustainability > • Develop a self-sustaining funding model through moderate payment tiers of the lab usage, grant and sponsorships application. > • Continue expanding the Zcash ecosystem through ongoing Zcash developers support system via the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space. > > > \### Upstream Merge Opportunities > > This is not applicable for the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space project set up and related activities. > > \### Hardware/Software Costs (USD) > > $5000 > > \### Hardware/Software Justification > > 1. Provision of 65 inches LED smart screen for 1 year use at the lab = $1000 > 2. Provision of 10 laptops support for 1 year use at the lab for Zcash related activities = $1500 > 3. Painting, designing and Branding of the space with Zcash logo & designs for 1 year use = $1000 > 4. Starlink Hardware for internet services = $500 > 5. Starlink internet subscriptions for 12 months = ($80 x 12) = $960 > 6. Logistics & Transport for Starlink Procurement = $40 > > TOTAL = $5000 > > \### Service Costs (USD) > > $4000 > > \### Service Costs Justification > > 1. Hosting of 4 monthly meetups at $400 per meetup, to cover for venue, refreshment, swags/t-shirts & equipment = ($400 x 4) = $1600 > 2. Live streaming of 3 days of ZconVII at the watch party viewing centre, to cover for refreshment, venue, equipment & logistics = ($300 x 3) = $900 > 3. Hosting of 3 weeks Zcash developers contest = $1500 > > TOTAL = $4000 > > \### Compensation Costs (USD) > > $6000 > > \### Compensation Costs Justification > > Using 100 hours at a rate of $30 per hour. > > 1. Onose Oghenevwogaga = $30 x 100 = $3000 > 2. WittyHub = $30 x 100 = $3000 > > TOTAL = $6000 > > NOTE: The above compensation of $6000 USD, is for the Project 4 months milestones, while the opening of the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space for web3 developers transitioning to Zcash developers to access, starting from the 5th month to the 12th month is at $0 (Zero USD) compensation to us, as this will be our own contribution to the project. > > \### Total Budget (USD) > > $15000 > > \### Previous Funding > > Yes > > \### Previous Funding Details > > $1500 grant to attend ZconIV but was denied visa, and the remaining fund was used to launch "Taking Zcash To Schools" event at WittyHub and also creating awareness about Zcash in 2023. > > \### Other Funding Sources > > No > > \### Other Funding Sources Details > > None > > \### Implementation Risks > > 1. Steady Power Supply: This project will require steady power supply for all the equipment to operate fully, This is because there is no complete steady power supply in Nigeria, thus it will lead to high cost of fueling generating sets for the project. > 2. Funding. Projects like this require funding and this could be a challenge if not properly funded. > 3. Government Agencies: Some government agencies may not understand what we are doing and may become a challenge to the project. > > \### Potential Side Effects > > 1. Privacy: There may be concerns about the privacy of participants' data, that is why we are taking privacy as a top priority on this project. > 2. Facility Maintenance: The duration of this project would require steady maintenance of the building facility giving the target number of activities expected to be carried out in the facility and the number of participants during this period. > > \### Success Metrics > > Progress Reporting & Performance Tracking: > • Measure impact through quarterly reports (number of Zcash activities done, Zcash project supported & developed, Web3 developers transitioning to Zcash developers, event attendance). > • Gather feedback from participants and community members as well as grant provider to improve the project. > • Adjust strategies based on engagement metrics and industry trends. > > > \### Startup Funding (USD) > > $5000 > > \### Startup Funding Justification > > The reason for this startup funding request is to setup and fully branded the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space, as well as to initiate team commitment to the project. > > \### Milestone Details > > \`\`\`milestones.yaml > \- Milestone: 1-Setup & Branding (Month 1) > Amount (USD): 6900 > Expected Completion Date: 2025-05-31 > Deliverables: > • Arrange and setup the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space for seating capacity of 50 developers, that is easily accessible and convenient for the purpose of researching, learning and developing web3 projects on Zcash blockchain protocol. > • Installation of Starlink internet supply with 12 months subscription. > • Provision of 10 laptops for use in all Zcash events training at the lab by interested developers laptops. > • Provision of 50 seats and tables. > • Installation of 65 inches LED smart screen for speakers’ presentation > • Brand the entire space with Zcash logo & designs. > • Host one Zcash meetup to introduce the lab to the public. > • Report Milestone achievement and publish in appropriate channel. > > \- Milestone: 2-Launch & Awareness (Month 2) > Amount (USD): 2200 > Expected Completion Date: 2025-06-30 > Deliverables: > • Official launch of the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space. > • Hold a Zcash Blockchain conversation with a celebrity influencer in the lab to have over 10,000 Zcash engagement online and offline, because the recorded video & write up will be posted in key social media channels. > • Organize a high-profile Zcash meetup event to further introduce the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space and Zcash protocol to web3 communities. > • Invite influencers, developers, investors, policymakers, & blockchain enthusiasts to come visit the Lab space. > • Conduct live demo sessions showcasing Zcash use cases, using one of the Zcash wallet for financial transaction. > • Report Milestone achievement and publish in appropriate channel. > > \- Milestone: 3-Community Engagement & Partnerships (Month 3) > Amount (USD): 2200 > Expected Completion Date: 2025-07-31 > Deliverables: > • Onboard universities, developers, and web3 communities into the Zcash Open Learning Lab Space programmes. > • Conduct campus outreach and online engagement to recruit participants. > • Organize Zcash montly meetups at the Lab. > • Report Milestone achievement and publish in appropriate channel. > > \- Milestone: 4-Zcash Developers Contest (Month 4) > Amount (USD): 3700 > Expected Completion Date: 2025-08-31 > Deliverables: > • Launch 3-weeks Zcash developers contest at the lab and it will be open to all, covering DeFi and Financial Privacy projects that will leverage on the Zcash Blockchain technology. > • Organize Zcash monthly meetup. > • Report Milestone achievement and publish in appropriate channel. > > > \- Milestone: 5- Growth & Expansion (Month 5-12) > Amount (USD): 0 > Expected Completion Date: 2026-04-30 > Deliverables: • Provide system support via the lab accessibility for developers integrating Zcash into their projects. > • Organize ZconVII watch party event for Zcash community and others. > • Collaborate with influencers and Web3 advocates to drive adoption. > \`\`\` > > \### Supporting Documents > > \`\`\`files.yaml > \- File Name 1: Brief description of the file contents > \- File Name 2: Brief description of the file contents > \`\`\` ---
**Author:** ![aquietinvestor](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/aquietinvestor/32/34528_2.png) [@aquietinvestor](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/aquietinvestor)\ **Post date:** [March 26, 2025, 6:08pm UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/2 "2025-03-26T18:08:19Z")
Hi @ogasky - Thank you for submitting your grant proposal! We will review it in the upcoming weeks and reach out if we have any questions. In the meantime, if you have any questions for us, you can post them to this thread or DM us at [@ZcashGrants](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/groups/zcashgrants). Zcash Community - We want to hear your feedback on this grant! You can post your comments to this thread or DM us at [@ZcashGrants](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/groups/zcashgrants) if you’d like to provide feedback in private. Thanks! ---
**Author:** ![ogasky](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/ogasky/32/41877_2.png) [@ogasky](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/ogasky)\ **Post date:** [April 1, 2025, 5:32pm UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/3 "2025-04-01T17:32:21Z")
Good day all, Please I beg you to take your time to go through this proposal and comment on it as your comment is very key to this project grant application. Thank you. ---
**Author:** ![FavourWilson](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/favourwilson/32/36826_2.png) [@FavourWilson](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/FavourWilson)\ **Post date:** [April 2, 2025, 12:26pm UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/4 "2025-04-02T12:26:21Z")
it’s a nice initiative ---
**Author:** ![ogasky](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/ogasky/32/41877_2.png) [@ogasky](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/ogasky)\ **Post date:** [April 2, 2025, 12:35pm UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/5 "2025-04-02T12:35:34Z")
Good day all, I have noticed that, up until now, after my post about this grant, we are yet to receive your comments. Please take the time to review the proposal to understand its deliverables and the positive impact this project aims to achieve, and kindly share your thoughts. I sincerely appeal to you to believe in me and this project, as everything outlined in the proposal is highly feasible within the Nigerian ecosystem, especially in the city where this project will be based. The building facility is already in place, as shown in the attached photo within the grant application. This facility is strategically located near a federal university and the city of Warri, a thriving hub for Web3 and crypto activities. It is important to note that this building will be fully branded with **Zcash designs and logos** , and a **Zcash signage/signpost** will be placed at strategic locations to improve visibility and create greater awareness about **Zcash**. Additionally, providing essential resources and high-quality workspaces for blockchain developers plays a critical role in increasing productivity in blockchain project development in Nigeria. Given the country’s challenging economic conditions, such support acts as a major catalyst for the success of Web3 initiatives. I speak from experience, as I own a hub in Nigeria called **WittyHub**. Furthermore, **ZecHub and Zcash documentation** will serve as key reference points for project development utilizing **Zcash Technology**. My funding request is not excessive, as my passion for this project is my primary motivation. I am deeply committed to contributing to the advancement of the **Zcash protocol in Nigeria**. All I ask for is this opportunity. If I fail, I do not expect to receive any further **Zcash** grants in the future—though I am confident that I will not fail. Beyond what is outlined in the proposal, I will ensure that **two completed projects leveraging Zcash Blockchain Technology** are developed during the **Zcash Developers Contest** , scheduled for **Month 4 in Phase 4**. Please take the time to thoroughly review the grant proposal, support it, and leave your comments to help make the **“Zcash Open Learning Lab Space”** a reality. Thank you. ---
**Author:** ![ogasky](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/ogasky/32/41877_2.png) [@ogasky](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/ogasky)\ **Post date:** [April 2, 2025, 12:37pm UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/6 "2025-04-02T12:37:00Z")
wow…just seeing this. Thank you ---
**Author:** ![Hamplus](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/hamplus/32/27411_2.png) [@Hamplus](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/Hamplus)\ **Post date:** [April 2, 2025, 7:15pm UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/7 "2025-04-02T19:15:48Z")
Having studied this interesting and fascinating proposal, I must confess that it should be look into by Zcash due to it numerous benefits to the community and protocol, the people and the nation. Such an idea is imperative to be supported. ---
**Author:** ![ogasky](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/ogasky/32/41877_2.png) [@ogasky](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/ogasky)\ **Post date:** [April 4, 2025, 10:31am UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/8 "2025-04-04T10:31:57Z")
Again, I want to emphasize that this project has the potential to enhance **Zcash’s value** , particularly through the **Month 2 - Zcash conversation with an influencer** , which is a key step in driving adoption. Additionally, this initiative will boost **Zcash’s market presence** , as the **Zcash Wallet and ZEC usage** will be consistently promoted to everyone visiting the **Lab space**. I encourage you to view this from a broader perspective. I assure you that this project will lead to more people **owning Zcash wallets and actively using ZEC for transactions**. Furthermore, I have access to influencers and will leverage them to **push the Zcash narrative for massive adoption** within my city. Please help make this a reality. **Thank you.** ---
**Author:** ![Autotunafish](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/autotunafish/32/7827_2.png) [@Autotunafish](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/Autotunafish)\ **Post date:** [April 5, 2025, 2:26pm UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/9 "2025-04-05T14:26:49Z")
I think this is neat and encourage others to check out the proposal in that github link as well. I like the idea of setting up a lab irl for people. ---
**Author:** ![aaal](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/aaal/32/36133_2.png) [@aaal](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/aaal)\ **Post date:** [April 5, 2025, 4:05pm UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/10 "2025-04-05T16:05:02Z")
I think that in general, allocating at least modest funds to projects (if they can be _confirmed_ to have _clear, definite activity_ and some level of _engagement or publicity_) in various parts of the world is a very good, low cost way to plant seeds in the long term. If, in the opinion of the board, this project can demonstrate the above, I support funding at some level–balanced of course with the potentially urgent priorities of the overall grant landscape. ---
**Author:** ![ogasky](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/ogasky/32/41877_2.png) [@ogasky](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/ogasky)\ **Post date:** [April 6, 2025, 9:07am UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/11 "2025-04-06T09:07:54Z")
wow…thank you for this awesome comment. ---
**Author:** ![ogasky](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/ogasky/32/41877_2.png) [@ogasky](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/ogasky)\ **Post date:** [April 6, 2025, 9:12am UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/12 "2025-04-06T09:12:57Z")
wow…Thank you for commenting your thought on this. ---
**Author:** ![ogasky](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/ogasky/32/41877_2.png) [@ogasky](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/ogasky)\ **Post date:** [April 8, 2025, 9:04am UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/13 "2025-04-08T09:04:41Z")
### **Appeal for Support & Key Justifications** Good day all, I appeal to members to **take the time to review this project proposal in detail** and share their thoughts. Your support is crucial in making this initiative a reality. I want to highlight key areas— **Community Engagement & Partnerships, Measurable Outcomes, Infrastructure Justification, and Sustainability** —to further address concerns. ### **Measurable Outcomes for Zcash Development & Adoption** The **primary goal** of this initiative is to **drive real-world adoption of Zcash** through education, developer onboarding, and ecosystem expansion. To ensure measurable outcomes, we will: (a) **Track Zcash wallet downloads and active usage** within our community. (b) **Host structured developer training programs** , providing hands-on mentorship to onboard builders into the Zcash ecosystem. (c) **Organize a Zcash Developers Contest (Month 4 milestone in Phase 4)**—resulting in **at least two tangible projects** built on Zcash. It is **key to note** that I have **already done this successfully before**. When I hosted **Taking Zcash to Schools** at WittyHub in 2023, we had **seven verified Zingo wallet downloads** from just a single event. You can see the **Medium post here** : 🔗 [Taking Zcash to Schools - Maiden Event](https://oga4sky.medium.com/taking-zcash-to-schools-maiden-event-930a390f81bf) That was **just one event** —now, imagine the **exponential impact** of running the **Zcash Open Learning Lab Space** consistently for **one year**. If one event produced **7 downloads** , then a structured year-long initiative will **easily surpass 200+ downloads**. **I’ve done it before, and I will do it again—at a much larger scale.** ### **Justification for Infrastructure & Logistics Funding** I understand the concerns about infrastructure costs, but it is **important to clarify** that these resources are **not just operational expenses** —they are **critical enablers** for Zcash development and adoption. (a) **Nigeria’s infrastructural challenges** : Without these basic resources (laptops, internet service, branding, etc.), **blockchain education and developer onboarding are severely limited**. (b) **A dedicated learning space with essential tools** will **significantly boost productivity** and increase engagement with Zcash. (c) **Strategic location & branding** : The lab will be positioned near a **federal university** in Warri—a growing hub for Web3 activity—ensuring **continuous exposure and adoption** of Zcash. Additionally, **we are not requesting excessive funding**. Our total budget is **comparable to what some individuals request for community events alone** , yet we are establishing a **permanent, structured lab** alongside community initiatives. **Key difference?** This **new building is fully owned by us** , meaning: **(a) No ongoing rental costs or risk of losing access** **(b) Long-term sustainability of Zcash activities in Nigeria** **(c) Zcash will have a permanent hub** for education, onboarding, and real-world use cases Because we own the building, this initiative will **stand the test of time** —and we are deeply committed to making it a success. ### **Long-Term Sustainability of the Lab** I fully agree that the lab should not depend solely on continuous grants. That’s why we have built a **sustainability model** to ensure its long-term viability: **(a) Strategic Partnerships**: We will **collaborate with local & global blockchain communities** to secure additional funding and partnerships. **(b) Paid Blockchain Training Programs**: A portion of revenue from advanced training courses will support the lab’s operations. **(c) Zcash Ecosystem Integration**: By onboarding developers and startups to **build real-world applications on Zcash** , we ensure **sustained engagement** with Zcash technology. This is **not just a one-time project** —we are creating **a framework that will grow and sustain itself over time**. ### **Proven Experience & Track Record** I also want to **address the concern** that I have **not built something like this before**. In reality, I have been doing this **since 2019** with **WittyHub** , a **co-working space and training hub** , which is **still active today**. Through **WittyHub** , I have successfully: **(a) Organized blockchain and tech-focused training programs**, empowering developers and increasing adoption of various technologies. **(b) Led Polygon’s expansion in Nigeria**: Our event helped **launch Polygon’s Community Guild Program** , which later expanded across **all states in Nigeria**. **(c) Founded GitLab Nigeria Community (2019)**: This initiative **grew into a nationwide movement** , leading to my recognition as a **GitLab Hero**. See my name here [GitLab Contributor Platform](https://contributors.gitlab.com/docs/previous-heroes) **(d) Hosted Zcash-focused events**: The “Taking Zcash to Schools” event alone **led to 7 verified Zingo Wallet downloads** , proving our ability to drive Zcash adoption. These **are not just ideas—I execute and deliver measurable results**. Given my experience with WittyHub and blockchain community building, I am **confident** that the **Zcash Open Learning Lab Space will be a success**. **I deeply appreciate your time and consideration.** I look forward to your support in making this vision a reality. **Thank you!** ---
**Author:** ![ZCG](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/zcg/32/33712_2.png) [@ZCG](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/ZCG)\ **Post date:** [April 15, 2025, 1:39pm UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/14 "2025-04-15T13:39:58Z")
Thank you for your submission. After careful consideration by [@ZcashGrants](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/groups/zcashgrants) and allowing sufficient time for community feedback on the forum, the committee has decided to reject this proposal. We appreciate your efforts in submitting a grant and encourage you to stay engaged in the Zcash community. Continue building your community, share your progress with the broader Zcash ecosystem, and connect with other Zcash communities to strengthen your impact. ---
**Author:** ![ogasky](https://sea2.discourse-cdn.com/zcash/user_avatar/forum.zcashcommunity.com/ogasky/32/41877_2.png) [@ogasky](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/u/ogasky)\ **Post date:** [April 16, 2025, 2:35pm UTC](https://forum.zcashcommunity.com/t/zcash-open-learning-lab-space/50721/15 "2025-04-16T14:35:07Z")
Acknowledged. Thank you.