> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.hypha.sh/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.hypha.sh/coqnet/coqnet-climax-how-to-stake-coq-and-become-a-validator.md).

# COQNet CLIMAX: How to Stake COQ and Become a Validator

Stake COQ and validate COQnet easily.

This guide explains how to stake COQ tokens and become a validator on COQnet via GoGoPool’s [L1 Marketplace (L1M)](https://l1s.gogopool.com/marketplace) without dealing with technical complexities. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can participate in the staking campaign and earn rewards on COQnet.

## Key Concepts on COQ Staking

### Node Availability

The amount of nodes available for staking on COQnet is limited. Here’s how it works:

* Nodes are released in **batches** at different times.
* A user can only stake if nodes are available in the current batch.
* The **Staking Widget** on the COQnet project page shows how many nodes are remaining in the current batch. Once all nodes in a batch are staked, you’ll need to wait for the next batch to be released.

> Keep an eye on the Staking Widget to know when new batches are available.

### Batch Details

* BATCH 1: Early whitelist for community members and builders to give engineering feedback - up to 20 spots
* BATCH 2: Whitelist created from X engagements on announcement post - up to 180 spots
* BATCH 3: Open to all eligible users, first come, first serve - up to 1000 spots

### Wallet Eligibility

To stake COQ, your wallet must meet the following criteria:

* **Chill Factor Score**: Only wallets with a Chill Factor score **above 69,420** can stake.

*The Chill Factor score is based on your wallet’s activity and history within the Avalanche ecosystem. You can check your wallet's Chill Factor score* [*here*](https://frostymetrics.com/chill_factor)*.*

### Staking Limits

Each wallet has the following staking limits:

* You can stake a maximum of once for BATCH1/BATCH2 and three times for BATCH3, meaning you can run up to **three validator nodes** per wallet.
* Once you’ve reached the maximum limit, you won’t be able to stake additional COQ from the same wallet.

### Staking Parameters

Staking on COQnet has the following parameters:

* **APY**: 9000%
* **Staking Duration**: 30 days
* **Staking Amount**: 20,000,000 COQ (fixed and non-changeable)
* **Fees**:
  * **P-Chain PAYG (Pay-as-you-go) Fee**: 1.33 AVAX (the fee of being a L1-only validator on the Avalanche network for one month).
  * **Node Fee**: $40 USD, paid in AVAX (paid to the hardware provider to set up and run a node on users behalf, *subject to change based on AVAX's price*).
* **Rewards**: 147,945,205 COQ per node (claimable after the staking period ends)

## Stake COQ and Become a Validator on COQnet

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Visit the L1 Marketplace

* Go to GoGoPool’s [L1 Marketplace](https://l1s.gogopool.com/marketplace) page.
* Explore Layer 1 projects like COQnet by browsing trending projects, top projects, or categories.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Connect Your Wallet

* Click the **Connect Wallet** button and connect your EVM-compatible wallet (e.g., Core, Rabby, MetaMask).
* Ensure your wallet is connected to the **Avalanche C-Chain** network.
* Ensure your wallet meets the **Chill Factor score** requirement and has sufficient funds:

  * At least **20,000,000 COQ** for staking.

  * Sufficient **AVAX** to cover the P-Chain PAYG fee and node fee.

  > **Note**: Your funds should be on the Avalanche C-Chain.
  > {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Explore COQnet Marketplace Page

* Click on COQnet to visit its project page.
* On this page, you’ll find:
  * Brief information about COQnet.
  * Links to the project’s socials and whitepaper.
  * Details about the COQ staking campaign (i.e., APY, Total Value Locked (TVL), number of stakers).
* A **Staking Widget** that shows how many nodes are remaining in the current batch and includes a **Stake** button.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Start the Staking Process

* Click the **Stake** button in the Staking Widget.
* A wizard will appear with the following details:
  * **Staking Amount**: 20,000,000 COQ (fixed and non-changeable).
  * **Staking Duration**: 30 days (fixed and non-changeable).
  * **Staking Summary**: Includes the staking duration, unlock date, reward APY, P-Chain PAYG fee, and node fee.
* Once everything looks good, click **Stake COQ**.
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Complete the Transactions

A series of transactions will appear in your wallet:

* Approve the transfer of COQ tokens from your wallet.
* Confirm the transaction to transfer COQ and AVAX, which will create your validator.

🎉 **Congratulations!** You’re now staking COQ and validating on COQnet.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

## Next Steps

After the staking period ends, you can claim your rewards. Check the [Managing Your COQ Staking and Rewards on Coqnet](/coqnet/managing-your-coq-staking-and-rewards-on-coqnet.md) for more information on claiming rewards.

If you encounter any issues, refer to the [GoGoPool Discord](https://discord.gogopool.com/) or contact the team for assistance.