Entropy

WIDE_open, a new way to fund creatives

Introduction and Executive Summary:

WIDE_open is a cooperative driven by the mission to empower creatives through resources and opportunities. Our unique approach centers around a shared treasury as a funding mechanism and uses the network of its members as a development hub, utilizing resources and connections from members. This treasury fuels creative growth, offering support for innovative personal projects that might not align with traditional agency models. WIDE_open, at the core of its operation, is dedicated to developing creatives, this means giving back not just to established creatives, but also providing creative resources to underserviced communities who may not have access to creative development early on in life.

How it works:

Monetarily: At WIDE_open, the shared treasury is the nucleus, serving as the primary engine for project development. Projects are sourced and developed through scouting members or direct submissions via the website. For funding, projects must secure a majority vote from active members. Projects funded by the shared treasury commit to redistributing 15% to 40% of their profits back into the treasury to sustain the collective. The percentage will be decided upon by members depending upon the scale and size of the project. Remaining true to the main tenet, percentages must be decided with the goal of creative development, and not profits, at the heart but must seek to at least grow the shared treasury to enable future projects.

Project Development: WIDE_open extends beyond financial backing, offering comprehensive project development services. Leveraging our network of members, we provide resources such as website development, publishing contacts, distribution channels, and blockchain integration.

An exemplar scenario involves aiding a zine project: WIDE_open connects the artist with a suitable publishing house, offers funding, and a portion of the project’s profits replenish the shared treasury.

Contributing to Underserved Communities:

An annual commitment of 5% of the shared treasury’s funds is dedicated to underserved communities. This percentage is subject to change and growth depending on yearly finances and will be open to a vote once a year. This allocation underscores WIDE_open’s unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity and positive social impact through creativity. The co-operative will also use its network to provide mentorship and educational initiatives, equipping aspiring artists from underserved backgrounds with the skills, resources, and support they need to pursue creative careers free of charge.

Governance and Decision-making: Operating democratically, WIDE_open works collective input. Regular meetings facilitate discussions on strategy, revenue allocation, project funding, and other key matters. All decisions concerning WIDE_open’s operations, strategies, and initiatives are made collectively by the members through majority vote. This democratic structure ensures that every member’s voice contributes to the cooperative’s core tenet of placing creative development at the heart of all. The founding member Jonathan Frydman, he will look to invite Ennntropy ecosystem players as their first members, such as but not limited to Jay Islate, Cedric Payne, Ignacio Reveredo & Yatù Espinosa.

Membership Criteria:

Membership is granted through direct invitation to artists with proven excellence, endorsed by members or leadership. Each new member must be approved by a super-majority vote.

Membership Benefits and Creative Agency Collaboration:
WIDE_open members enjoy a range of privileges:

•	Voting Rights: Members shape the cooperative’s direction by participating in decision-making processes. All members have the same amount of votes (1).
•	Direct Project Introduction: Members can propose projects directly, tapping into the shared 	treasury for financial backing and support.
•	Invitations: Members have the power to invite other artists, expanding our community of 			exceptional talent.
•	Creative Agency Collaboration: Our network, cultivated through project scouting, serves as a creative agency resource. Members can tap into this network to use WIDE_open as a creative agency to help them work for commercial clients.  Engaging the cooperative as a creative agency follows a balanced 5-5-5% revenue distribution, as listed below.

Implementation: Synergy of Artistic Exploration and Creative Agency Collaboration

Shared Treasury

Step 1 - Empowering Personal Explorations:

Our central focus is nurturing individual projects. By providing finances and other resources we aim to grow creatives’ career potential. At first, these projects will be scouted by members, specifically Jonathan Frydman, and brought forward to the board of members. It is vital in these first projects to find artists that have untapped potential and will benefit greatly from WIDE_open’s platform as well as help grow funding in the shared treasury. We will also be looking at opening a website to accept personal project proposals.

Step 2- Introduction of Project

Following the introduction of a potential project, members will work to shape a contract and plan of action in line with WIDE_open’s ideals. This part can be spearheaded by any member but must be accepted by a majority of members. During this time a suitable business plan with a look at potential earnings & costs must be developed and presented to all members for a vote.

Step 3- Voting

Once a business plan, with a plan of action is drawn up. All members must vote on it. Abstention votes will not count.

Creative Agency Integration:

Step 1- WIDE_open as a creative agency

Harnessing the collective’s network and funds, members may leverage the cooperative as a creative agency if they so wish. Drawing from our scouting process, a diverse talent pool, and industry connections developed within the treasury, members may use the collective to develop projects for commercial clients. In this scenario, the goal is not to use the shared treasury but rather leverage the cooperative to execute contracts for clients who turn a profit.

Step 2 - Revenue Distribution: Engaging the cooperative as a creative agency follows a balanced 5–5-5% revenue distribution:

•	5% finder’s fee for securing the project.
•	5% strengthens the shared treasury for future artistic ventures.
•	5% contributes to underserved communities, reflecting inclusivity and impact.

Underserved Community Outreach:

Step 1 : Finding the right communities.

Conduct thorough research to identify the specific underserved communities you intend to engage with. Consider factors such as demographics, location, and the unique challenges faced by each community. This research will help tailor your outreach efforts to meet the needs of the target audience effectively. Once found, a vote must be held to move forward on selected community.

Step 2: Develop Outreach Initiatives

Design outreach initiatives that align with the identified needs of the target communities and budget available to WIDE_open. These initiatives could include:

•	Workshops and Classes: Offer free or affordable workshops on various creative skills, such as painting, photography, writing, or digital design.
•	Mentorship Programs: Pair aspiring artists from underserved backgrounds with experienced mentors who can provide guidance and support.
•	Art Exhibitions and Shows: Organize art exhibitions and cultural events in collaboration with the target communities to showcase their creativity.
•	Creative Tool Distribution: Provide art supplies, software, or tools that enable individuals to express themselves creatively.

A vote must be held once an outreach initiative is determined

Step 3: Measure and Evaluate Impact

Regularly assess the impact of your initiatives. Collect data on participation rates, skills acquired, changes in confidence, and overall satisfaction. Use both quantitative and qualitative data to understand the program’s effectiveness and make improvements.

Step 4: Adapt and Improve

Based on the collected data and feedback, adapt your initiatives to better meet the needs and preferences of the target communities. Continuously refine your approach to ensure maximum impact and meaningful engagement.

By following these steps, WIDE_open can establish a community outreach program that not only empowers underserved communities through creativity but also strengthens the cooperative’s reputation as an agent of positive change.

Guiding values

Synergy of Artistic Exploration and Positive Impact:

By embracing the principles of dual financial streams, nurturing cooperative unity, empowering underserved communities, and being open to evolution and innovation, WIDE_open embodies a holistic and dynamic approach to fostering creativity, collaboration, and positive impact within the artistic realm.

Dual Financial Streams: WIDE_open’s commitment to dual financial streams is fundamental to its sustainable growth and the empowerment of artists. This principle encompasses two vital aspects:

1.	Shared Treasury Resilience: The shared treasury stands as the cooperative’s lifeline, driving innovation and supporting creative projects. Contributions from successful endeavors replenish the treasury, securing resources for upcoming initiatives. This financial continuity ensures that WIDE_open remains a reliable source of support for artists’ visions.
2.	Empowerment through Commercial Collaboration: By engaging with commercial clients as a creative agency, WIDE_open generates additional revenue streams. This dual approach not only strengthens the shared treasury but also empowers members to showcase their skills in the commercial arena, fostering personal growth and cooperative sustainability.

Nurturing Cooperative Unity & Growth: The essence of WIDE_open lies in its commitment to fostering unity and collaboration among its members. This core tenet is exemplified through several key principles:

1.	Inclusive Decision-Making: WIDE_open ensures that every member’s voice is heard and valued. Decisions concerning project funding, strategies, and resource allocation are collectively made through a majority vote. This inclusive approach guarantees that the cooperative’s trajectory is shaped collectively, representing the diverse perspectives of its members.
2. 	Transparency and Accountability: Sustaining unity relies on transparency and accountability. WIDE_open upholds these values by consistently sharing updates, progress reports, and financial statements. This open communication fosters trust and ensures that every member is well-informed about the cooperative’s operations and impact.

3.	Flexibility for Change: The cooperative recognizes that the creative landscape is dynamic and constantly evolving. As such, WIDE_open is open to significant changes should the majority of members vote for them. This approach ensures that the cooperative remains relevant and responsive to emerging opportunities and challenges.

4.	Collective Ownership: Members actively contribute to shaping the cooperative’s evolution. Proposals for significant changes, improvements, or new initiatives are subject to member voting. This collective ownership empowers every member to play a role in defining the cooperative’s future trajectory.

Empowering Underserved Communities: WIDE_open’s dedication to underserved communities embodies a core value of social responsibility and inclusivity. This commitment involves:

1.	Equitable Allocation: The cooperative allocates an annual 5% of its shared treasury funds to support underserved communities. This allocation is subject to a yearly vote, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness to evolving needs.
2.	Community-Centric Initiatives: WIDE_open collaborates with non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and community groups to design transformative art projects. These initiatives engage, inspire, and empower marginalized communities, aiming to bridge gaps and spark positive change.
3.	Mentorship and Education: WIDE_open invests in mentorship and educational programs, providing aspiring artists from underserved backgrounds with the necessary skills, resources, and guidance to pursue creative careers. This support aims to break down barriers and create opportunities for personal and professional growth.
4.	Advocacy and Impact: Beyond financial support, WIDE_open uses its platform to advocate for diversity, inclusion, and representation within the creative industry. Through awareness campaigns the cooperative strives to foster positive change on a broader scale.

Initial Funding:

•	Initial Treasury Fund: $20,000 This fund will serve as the initial capital for the shared treasury, providing members with the resources needed to kickstart their personal projects. 2,000$ is allocated for a first year backup fund for any development needed for WIDE_open’s first year. Following that the money will be transitioned into the treasury fund.
•	Personnel Costs: $15,000  This will cover the salaries for all initial workers and employees of WIDE_open, this will only happen during the first stage, afterwards the co-operative will require less staff & gain funding for salaried positions from the shared treasury if necessary upon member votes. Within this is also money all. This will cover the initial business expenses, including website development, marketing, and other operational costs.
•	Legal Fees & Administration: $1,500. These costs will cover the legal and administrative expenses associated with setting up the cooperative, including registration fees, legal consultation, and other necessary paperwork.
•	Initial Community Outreach: $3,500. This budget will be allocated to our community outreach program, which aims to provide creative tools and opportunities to underserved communities

Total:

40,000 USD or 22 ETH

Conclusion:

WIDE_open’s unique approach, anchored in a shared treasury, democratic decision-making, and an unwavering commitment to creative development, reflects our collective vision for a more inclusive and vibrant creative landscape. The journey ahead is guided by our core tenets, where dual financial streams support both personal explorations and collaborative agency projects. Strength through democracy, whether on individual paths or agency collaborations, will drive our decision-making, ensuring that every voice contributes to shaping our cooperative’s trajectory.