Guide for Applicants

Introduction

Welcome potential candidates! This guide provides essential information for those considering applying for a seat on the Constitutional Committee (CC). The CC plays a vital role in upholding the Cardano Constitution and guiding the evolution of its governance framework. Whether you are an individual Ada owner, part of a group, or representing a company, this guide outlines the eligibility requirements, the application process, the election mechanism, how to apply, and the key dates for the election cycle. We encourage all interested and eligible community members to consider this unique opportunity to contribute directly to Cardano's future.

Who Can Apply and How Election Works

The opportunity to help shape the future of Cardano's governance by serving on the Constitutional Committee is open to any Ada owner. Whether you hold a small amount or a large amount, you are eligible to put yourself forward as a candidate.

In this election, all seven seats are up for vote.

Election to the Committee is determined through a stake-based voting system. This means that the voting power associated with Ada holdings delegated to specific candidates will determine the outcome. The candidates who garner the most support from the community, weighted by stake, will be elected.

The election results will determine both who serves and the length of their initial term:

• The top three (3) candidates receiving the highest number of votes will be elected for a term of 126 epochs.

• The next four (4) candidates, ranked 4th through 7th in the vote count, will be elected for a term of 73 epochs.

Optional Tasks to Demonstrate Capabilities

In addition to the main application requirements, candidates have the opportunity to undertake an optional three-step task. Completing this task allows applicants to demonstrate key skills relevant to the CC role: technical proficiency in credential management (Steps 1 & 2) and the analytical ability to evaluate governance actions within Cardano's framework (Step 3), all performed in the SanchoNet environment. The overall objective is to successfully generate cold credentials, authorize hot credentials using them, and then use the hot credentials to evaluate, vote on, and justify a position on a governance action on SanchoNet, submitting a URL to the required evidence. Read the full task descriptions here.

What to Include in Your Application

The application form requires specific information to help voters understand your candidacy. Here’s what you’ll need to provide:

Common Requirements (All Applicants):

• Candidate Details: Candidate information including biography, contact details, relevant social media handles, a summary of your experience pertinent to the CC role, and a declaration of any potential conflicts of interest.

• Optional Candidate Video: An option to include a link to a video presenting yourself, your consortium, or your company's platform.

Specific Requirement (Consortia Applicants):

• Member Information: If applying as a consortium, there will be a dedicated field to provide specific information about each individual member contributing to the joint candidacy.

Verification and Edits:

• Optional Verification: The application includes optional fields allowing you to request a call with staff involved in the election process should you wish to verify your identity or in case you have any questions about the application.

• Post-Submission Edits: If you need to make changes or corrections to your application after submitting it during the registration period, please contact the election administration team directly via email at [e-mail].

Who Can Apply: Individuals, Consortia, and Companies

Applications for the Constitutional Committee are welcome from various participants within the Cardano ecosystem. You can apply in one of three capacities:

• Individuals: Any eligible Ada holder applying in their personal capacity.

• Consortia: Groups of individuals or entities who choose to apply together as a single collective candidacy.

• Companies: Formal organizations or businesses that wish to participate and contribute to Cardano's governance via the Committee.

Election Timeline

Please take note of the following key dates for the Constitutional Committee election process:

• Registration Period: May 5th – May 31st

  • This is the window for prospective candidates (individuals, consortia, or companies) to submit their applications.

• Voting Period: June 10th – July 1st

  • During this time, Ada holders will be able to cast their votes for their preferred candidates using the stake-based system.

• Results Announcement: July 5th

  • Audited results of the election, identifying the seven new Constitutional Committee members and their term lengths, will be announced. All voting data will be publicly available from voting close for anyone to self audit should they want to.

Serving on the Constitutional Committee is a significant opportunity to contribute directly to Cardano governance. We encourage all eligible Ada owners, consortia, and companies who are passionate about Cardano's principles and future direction to carefully review the requirements outlined in this guide and prepare their candidacy.

The registration period opens on May 5th. Prepare your application now and ensure it is submitted before the May 31st deadline.