Skynet + Substrate: Off-Chain Worker Pallet for Decentralized Storage

[dghelm]

Grant Application

This application is:

• [x] speculative (use this by default).
• [ ] an RFP response.

This application is:

• [ ] fully public.
• [x] public with private finances.

Abstract

We intend to build an integration with Skynet for easily making use of decentralized off-chain storage from any project using FRAME. A Skynet Pallet will allow Polkadot projects to access any Skynet Portal on the network using off-chain workers for interacting with decentralized data, both immutable and mutable.

Skynet is a decentralized storage platform built to use the Sia blockchain network for storage, but in a way that's accessible via the web and available to anyone, without concerning themselves with cryptocurrencies or special software. Skynet allows for the hosting of robust web-app frontends and storage of application data in a way where users retain control over their data and application data is interoperable between applications.

Checklist

• [x] The README has been read and understood.
• [x] The abstract above is succinct and complete.
• [x] The application form will be filled out accurately. Note that you will require the URL of this pull request.

The application:

• [x] is being added to the correct directory, either rfp-responses or speculative.
• [x] includes the names of all team members.
• [x] contains a summary of the team's experience.
• [x] links to the GitHub and LinkedIn profiles of all team members that have one.
• [x] includes a comprehensive timeline of development.
• [ ] includes an estimate of the funds required (optional).
• [x] provides an indication of the team's long term plans.

[burdges]

There is nothing wrong with parachains interacting with outside resources, like bridging to bother chains or third party storage ala IPFS, etc.

As should be obvious, we'll never support off-chain interactions inside PVFs, and polkadot/kusama validators will never engage in PVF directed network activity, so chain employing off-chain interactions require greater care, i.e. enough nodes, inflation, staking, etc., well like bridges.