Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of a Validator in the Kite network?
Validators are responsible for verifying the performance, uptime, and outputs of active modules (e.g., compute, inference, data, and agent modules). Rather than simply validating transactions, Kite validators help maintain trust in the execution of AI-native workloads, ensuring that modules operate reliably and are rewarded according to actual contribution under Proof of Artificial Intelligence (PoAI).
How many KITE tokens does each Validator receive through the initial distribution?
Kite Validators were selected through a competitive process. The selected Kite Validators receive a token grant to provide them with the stake required to run a Validator. Each Validator has a minimum threshold of staked Kite necessary for operation, they will all begin with this amount.
What is a Delegator, and how do they participate?
Delegators are token holders who delegate their $KITE tokens to modules rather than operating nodes themselves. In return, they earn a share of the performance-based rewards that those modules generate. Delegation enables passive participation while supporting the network's stability and performance.
How many Kite tokens does each Delegator receive through the initial distribution?
Kite Delegators were identified and selected based on input from top Web 3 projects based on individuals' proven track record of contributing to these communities. The selected Kite Delegators receive a token grant to allow them to contribute to the network. Each Delegator has a minimum threshold of staked Kite necessary for operation, they will all begin with this amount.
Why is Kite distributing tokens to Validators and Delegators?
Unlike many traditional crypto projects that rely on speculative airdrops or short-term staking incentives, Kite chose its module centric token distribution model to directly align long-term ownership with real economic contribution. By distributing a significant portion of tokens to high-value modules and their communities Kite ensures that those who power the network's core infrastructure also hold a meaningful stake in its future. To reinforce long term commitment, Kite implemented an innovative unlock schedule that ensures that ownership remains concentrated among long term, high conviction participants. Combined with ongoing, performance-based emissions via Proof of Artificial Intelligence (PoAI), this approach creates a sustainable, usage-aligned economy where rewards are tied to measurable work (not passive holding). The result is a network that incentivizes deep, durable engagement from both developers and early adopters, rather than short lived hype cycles.
What are Kite validators responsible for?
Network Security and Stability
Validate new blocks and transactions, maintain Layer-1 integrity and consensus, and ensure high uptime and secure operations. Partner support will be provided for node deployment and ongoing operations.
Module Operations and Performance
Execute module-specific tasks such as generating and attesting on-chain activity, facilitating cross-module interactions, auditing module service performance, and meeting agreed KPIs and SLAs to drive coordinated growth.
Governance Participation and Decision-Making
Engage in key protocol decisions and voting, drive rule optimization and network evolution, and ensure transparency and accountability in disclosures and voting.
Strategic Advice and Feedback Loop
Provide regular recommendations on overall direction, technical roadmap, and priorities. Turn operational feedback into actionable improvements with verifiable and trackable outcomes.
Community Collaboration and Ecosystem Building
Actively participate in discussions and events, support builders and partners, share best practices professionally and openly, and strengthen trust and engagement.
Brand and Growth Enablement
Amplify Kite’s brand visibility and credibility through technical content, co-created events, and real-world case adoption to support sustainable growth.
What are the incentives for validators?
Validators earn $KITE token rewards based on the performance and usage of the modules they support, the accuracy and consistency of their validation, their uptime and responsiveness, and delegated stake from other token holders. Reward rates are dynamic and tied to module-level metrics such as task volume, correctness, and fulfillment efficiency.
How much $KITE do I need to become a validator?
KITE is required to become a validator. On mainnet, becoming a validator will require meeting a minimum stake threshold (to be defined per module), running lightweight validation infrastructure (not GPU-heavy), and passing onboarding criteria set by the Kite core team or module operators.
Can I delegate $KITE to multiple modules or validators?
Yes. Delegators will be able to split their stake across multiple modules or validators, giving them exposure to different parts of the network (e.g., compute, data, or model modules). This allows them to optimize for performance, risk, and reward diversity.
How are rewards distributed to Delegators?
Rewards are distributed pro-rata based on the amount of $KITE delegated and the performance of the module or validator. Modules with higher task throughput, better reliability, and stronger validator coverage will typically generate higher returns for delegators. Rewards are claimable periodically via the Kite dashboard or staking interface.
Can validators be slashed?
Yes. Validators may be slashed for downtime or missed validation cycles, incorrect or fraudulent validation, and failure to follow module-specific rules or protocol policies. Slashing helps preserve trust and ensures that validators remain honest and performant.
Where can I track validator and delegator performance?
A real-time Kite Validator Dashboard will be launched alongside mainnet, showing validator uptime and validation history, reward rates across modules, delegation volume and ranking, and module-specific validator metrics.