Update

We have added a Q&A Section to the bottom of the proposal on Sunday June 2nd, which answers some of the questions from commenters.

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Free Beer Stand & BD/Networking Space at Polkadot Decoded

Proponent: ChaosDAO
Date: 28.05.2024
Requested DOT: 4504 DOT / 30,000€
Short Description: Sponsoring of Beer @ Decoded
Multi: 13DxmMjYqto1AWsMUSkN8JYNHX6d2vBhuSmapB5iYnEiYaxX

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Context of the Proposal

ChaosDAO proposes an initiative to enhance the Polkadot Decoded experience by providing complimentary alcoholic beverages to attendees. This initiative aims to create an engaging and informal platform for community members to refresh themselves and network. Positioned strategically at the venue, the beer stand will serve as a catalyst for conversation and connection, fostering a sense of camaraderie among participants. By offering a welcoming environment, we hope to facilitate discussions about the event's content and promote business development opportunities within and outside the Polkadot ecosystem.

Goals and Objectives

The primary objective is to bring together the Polkadot community in a relaxed, enjoyable setting, enhancing the overall experience of Polkadot Decoded. This initiative seeks to:

• Provide a social hub for attendees to unwind, discuss presentations, and network.
• Encourage community bonding and collaboration through informal interactions.
• Promote business development by offering a conducive environment for meaningful conversations.
• Create a memorable and positive experience that strengthens community ties and leaves a lasting impression.

Event Details

Our beer stand will operate during Polkadot Decoded and be located in the venue's lobby. The stand will be easily accessible and visible to attendees. To complement the beverages, we will provide ambient music to foster an inviting after-work vibe and standing tables in the lobby, which can be put in front of the venue in case of good weather.

Budget Proposal

To execute this initiative, we request a flexible budget from the Polkadot treasury. Given the unpredictable attendance, we propose a maximum allocation of 15,000€ for beer. This budget will cover the actual consumption, with any surplus being returned to the treasury. Our commitment to transparency and cost-efficiency is paramount; thus, we will provide detailed invoices for all expenses, ensuring no intermediaries inflate costs.

Branding and Promotional Efforts

In addition to beverages, we will incorporate Polkadot and ChaosDAO branding on promotional items, such as cups and napkins, enhancing visibility and brand association. We also propose including a budget for Polkadot Decoded-themed t-shirts, which will be distributed to contributing members as a token of appreciation for their voluntary efforts. This inclusion serves as an acknowledgment of their contribution rather than a direct compensation, aligning with the community spirit.

Governance and Fund Management

The requested funds will be deposited into a multi-signature wallet managed by ChaosDAO signers, ensuring robust oversight and accountability. It is important to note that the lead proposer will not be among the signers, maintaining impartiality and transparency in fund management.

Conclusion

We believe this proposal will significantly enhance the Polkadot Decoded experience, providing a valuable opportunity for community building and engagement. By fostering an inclusive and enjoyable atmosphere, we aim to create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds within the Polkadot community. We request the treasury's support to bring this vision to life and contribute to the success of Polkadot Decoded.

Thank you for considering our proposal.

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Budget Table (Estimates Including Taxes)

Item	Cost (EUR)
Beer (@0.8€ per 0.3L cup)	15,000 EUR
Eco Cups (@0.3€ per cup)	4,000 EUR
Tables/Deco	3,000 EUR
Bar Staff (3-4p, 25€/h)	1,500 EUR
Banners/Flags/Stickers	1,000 EUR
T-shirts	500 EUR
DJs and DJ Gear	1,000 EUR
Overhead	4,000 EUR
Total	30,000 EUR

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Evolving Q&A

Invoices

As stated in the proposal, we will provide detailed invoices for all expenses and ensure that no intermediaries inflate the costs. Contrary to popular belief, we aren't interested in grifting the treasury and ruining our reputation over a few thousand euros.

Cost for the Beer / 15k for Beer?

If you actually read the proposal, you'll see that the budget will cover the actual consumption of beer, with any surplus being returned to the treasury.

Cups Cost / Environmental Damage

Regarding the cost of the cups, we've conducted a significant cost-saving exercise compared to alternative options offered by event organizers within the Polkadot ecosystem. Through a process akin to competitive tendering, we've saved 64.41% on each cup. Additionally, we do not plan to spend the full 4,000 EUR - any extra funds will be reimbursed back to the treasury, accompanied by detailed invoices.

In terms of environmental damage and carbon footprint, the cups are eco-friendly and recyclable. They are not single-use plastic cups and can be washed, the intention is for them to be re-used and people are free to take them home. We believe the environmental impact of the cups is minimal compared to the logistics and travel of Polkadot Decoded event participants, making it a non-issue.

DJ / Music

Initially, we planned to provide music at the venue using ChaosDAO member's professional DJ equipment and DJing experience to save the treasury money. Our members offered to do this for free, saving tens of thousands of dollars compared to similar proposals. However, we were informed by Decentered Studios (the organizers of Polkadot Decoded) that we cannot have DJs or music in the venue.

Votes from ChaosDAO Members

ChaosDAO itself cannot vote on this proposal as we (as of June 2nd) have Decentralized Voices votes from the Web3 Foundation as part of DV Cohort #1. However, our individual members are free to vote AYE or NAY on the proposal, just like anyone else.

Alternative Beverages

Polkadot Decoded, like most events, always offers non-alcoholic beverage options (such as water, soft drinks, tea, and coffee). We have been informed by Decentered Studios that there will be fridges and non-alcoholic refreshment stations throughout the venue, including behind the main bar where this proposal is planned to be executed.

Regarding Other Costs

This event is primarily organized by ChaosDAO members who live in or near Brussels (where Polkadot Decoded is located), so the costs accurately reflect the actual prices in that region. We will not run over budget. As stated earlier, any excess funds will be returned to the treasury - we are not trying to grift the treasury and ruin our reputation over a few thousand euros.

Regarding Alt / Troll Accounts Commenting with 0 DOT

For those of you not "in the weeds" of OpenGov, ChaosDAO has previously voted NAY on many proposals that we do not feel add value to the ecosystem. These alt/troll accounts are from people we have NAY'd in the past. Their comments are malicious, defamatory, and untrue – you will see that none of them are actually voting from those accounts. You may be able to assume that people voting NAY without commenting might be behind these comments, especially if we have NAY voted them before. We believe the value added by this proposal will ensure it passes.

Location of the Event

The event will be held at the actual Polkadot Decoded venue. Current discussions with Decentered Studios suggest the event will take place in the lobby/bar area, but the final location will be decided by Decentered Studios as they are the primary organizers of Polkadot Decoded.