I'd prefer to see a PoC first before the money is paid out of the DHF. Because writing some text to get people hyped isn't difficult, but building the actual product which works well and is secure, is more than difficult.

And while I value your initiative and mean no disrespect, I have some doubts that you're a bit over your head (with 3 projects needing work simultaneously) Building a sidechain is serious work and has to be absolutely secure/audited. Looking at your track record, you're an OG Hiver for sure and have always been active, but AFAIK, there have been a few "exploits" of your hive-roller.com app. These kinds of exploits would be horrendous and basically non-acceptable for the sidechain.

Personally, I think it would be best if you'd work together with BT & his team or other experienced developers.