> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://gatekey.gitbook.io/whitepaper/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://gatekey.gitbook.io/whitepaper/2.1-membership-tiers.md).

# 2.1 Membership Tiers

Structured Access Through Token Commitment

GateKey operates through a tier-based membership structure that determines access rights, reward eligibility, and governance participation within the ecosystem. Membership tiers are assigned automatically based on the number of GKT tokens locked by a participant. This ensures that all users are evaluated according to consistent, transparent criteria.

The membership model is designed to scale participation levels without relying on centralized approval systems. Instead of manually granting access privileges, the protocol evaluates staking balances during periodic snapshots and assigns the appropriate membership tier accordingly.

Each tier represents a defined level of protocol participation. Higher tiers provide increased access privileges, priority eligibility in campaigns, and improved reward allocation weights. This tiered structure allows the ecosystem to differentiate between levels of commitment while maintaining fairness across all participants.

Membership tiers remain active as long as the required staking threshold is maintained. If a user increases their staking amount, they may move into a higher tier at the next snapshot cycle. Similarly, if staking balances fall below the minimum requirement for a tier, the membership level adjusts accordingly during the following epoch.

This dynamic structure ensures that membership levels accurately reflect ongoing participation rather than one-time actions.

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### **Tier Structure Overview** <a href="#tier-structure-overview" id="tier-structure-overview"></a>

GateKey currently supports three primary membership tiers, each representing a progressive level of access and participation.

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#### **Starter Tier** <a href="#starter-tier" id="starter-tier"></a>

**Minimum Requirement:** 10,000 GKT **Estimated Reward Level:** Entry-level reward eligibility

The Starter Tier serves as the entry point into the GateKey ecosystem. It allows users to begin participating in the protocol while gaining access to foundational features and reward mechanisms.

Starter Tier participants typically receive:

* Eligibility for standard campaigns
* Access to baseline protocol rewards
* Entry-level participation privileges
* Early notifications about protocol updates
* Verified membership status within supported platforms

This tier is intended for users who are beginning their participation journey and exploring the capabilities of the protocol.

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#### **Pro Tier** <a href="#pro-tier" id="pro-tier"></a>

**Minimum Requirement:** 50,000 GKT **Estimated Reward Level:** Medium reward allocation

The Pro Tier represents an intermediate level of participation designed for users seeking enhanced access and influence within the ecosystem. Participants at this level benefit from improved reward distribution and expanded protocol privileges.

Pro Tier participants typically receive:

* Priority eligibility across supported campaigns
* Enhanced reward allocation weights
* Governance voting participation
* Early access to protocol features
* All privileges available within Starter Tier

This tier is designed for users who maintain consistent engagement and contribute actively to the protocol ecosystem.

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#### **Elite Tier** <a href="#elite-tier" id="elite-tier"></a>

**Minimum Requirement:** 200,000 GKT **Estimated Reward Level:** Highest reward allocation

The Elite Tier represents the highest level of participation within the GateKey protocol. This tier is designed for committed participants who maintain substantial staking levels and require access to premium protocol functionality.

Elite Tier participants typically receive:

* Highest priority access across campaigns
* Premium participation privileges
* Private or curated participation opportunities
* Advanced protocol tools and resources
* Priority inclusion in new ecosystem initiatives
* All privileges available within Starter and Pro Tiers

This tier is intended for long-term participants who maintain a strong commitment to ecosystem development and participation.