The ENS DAO has three specific ways to request funding.
This document explains the differences between these three funding methods.
Proposals are direct requests for ENS DAO funds. Proposals are initiated on the forum and vetted by the entire DAO through the on-chain voting process.; this is a non-competitive process.
Funding is requested from the DAO multisig or available working group funds.
Contributor A has developed a protocol update. This work is complete, and a recipient is pre-defined.
Improper Implementation
Contributor C has an idea for a protocol update. They cannot perform the work themselves, and no work has begun.
Request for Proposals (RFPs) solicit the general public to perform work on an idea or project that does not already have a grantee identified. This is a competitive process.
RFPs will have a proposal manager that will oversee the vetting of applicants. At their discretion, they may choose to select an applicant and put their plan to a DAO proposal to execute work and payment.
Funding is requested from the DAO multisig or available working group funds.
Contributor C has an idea for a protocol update. They cannot perform the work themselves, and no work has begun. Contributor C drafts an RFP and oversees the vetting of applicants.
Contributor A has developed a protocol update. This work is complete and is so specialized that only one or two people can complete the tasks involved.
Prop House Grants are an automated way for projects to receive funding. This is a competitive process where applicants can submit their project or idea to the prop house grant rounds to be voted on. Those projects that receive the most votes will receive funding.
Working groups provide funding. The amount given for each grant round is defined by the budget established at the beginning of the term.
Contributor E wants to create videos for the DAO. They desire to be compensated for their time and work. They have a plan but no deadline and do not need working group oversight. Contributor E applies to the monthly small grants round.
Contributor F has an idea for a project but does not have a plan to complete it. It is also unclear whether the project needs funding at all.