> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://whitepaper.surge.xyz/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://whitepaper.surge.xyz/discovery/founder-playbook/faq.md).

# FAQ

### For Founders (The Builders)

**Can I purchase more Project Ignites (PI) to boost my marketing?**

No. Every project on the platform is strictly capped at 150 PI per week. This mathematically prevents "pay-to-win" dynamics and ensures that venture-backed startups cannot simply buy out the attention economy. You must distribute your PI efficiently.

**What happens if I do not distribute my 150 PI by the end of the week?**

It expires. PI operates on a strict 7-day "use it or lose it" cycle. Unused PI does not roll over to the following week. This enforces continuous engagement between founders and their communities.

**Are the API integrations (Stripe, GA4, Mixpanel) mandatory to list a project?**

No, the Verified Traction Layer is entirely optional. However, it is highly recommended. Data shows that projects with verified metrics receive significantly more Global Ignites from the community and qualify for Ignition Funding much faster than projects relying solely on manual updates.

### For Investors & Backers (The Signal Seekers)

**Do my Global Ignites disappear forever once I allocate them?**

No. Global Ignite capacity is tracked on a 30-day rolling cycle. If you allocate an Ignite to a project and that founder stops shipping updates, your capacity will reset at the end of your cycle, allowing you to withdraw that support and reallocate it to a more active builder.

On top of that you all-time Ignition activity is tracked too, so founders can reward more their earliest adopters.

**How do I get access to a project's Founder Chat?**

To prevent spam and ensure high-signal communication, public chat is gated. You must allocate a minimum of 1 Ignite to a project to unlock their "Chat with Team" tab.

**Is there a limit to how many Global Ignites I can earn?**

While you start with a base capacity of 10, you can significantly expand it. Connecting your X (Twitter), GitHub, and LinkedIn accounts grants +5 capacity each. Additionally, you earn +5 capacity for every verified user you invite via your referral link.

**What happens if a project I supported shuts down or is abandoned?**

Surge Discovery tracks real-world development via the Automated Changelog. If a project stops shipping code or fails to distribute its weekly PI, its algorithmic momentum dies.

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