> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.loadout.xyz/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.loadout.xyz/for-traders/backing-projects.md).

# Backing a Project

Start with the game and the people building it. A token chart alone cannot tell you whether the team can deliver.

### Review the project

Read the team background, development stage, available builds, roadmap and use of funds. Check token supply, reserved allocations, vesting, buybacks and any game-revenue commitment.

Curated projects go through Loadout's review. Instant projects use a self-service launch route and can become verified later. Review status is one piece of evidence; it does not guarantee performance.

### Understand the trade

During the active curve, buys and sells move the price and generate fees. The standard game-curve fee is 5%: 4 percentage points for the studio before buybacks and 1 for Loadout before referrals and rebates.

Temporary opening protection can make buys substantially more expensive. Review the live quote, minimum received and slippage before approving a trade.

### Know what graduation means

New curated launches target 150 SOL in real reserves, and instant launches target 85 SOL. Check the individual project's target. At graduation, reserves seed the official pool and the original liquidity position is permanently locked.

The standard game pool starts at a 2% fee. The studio continues earning from eligible fees according to the applicable allocation. Graduation does not guarantee a development budget or a token price.

### Follow the work

Watch for shipped updates, clear spending and consistent communication. Compare buyback promises with actual transactions. A separate game-revenue commitment depends on the studio's stated terms and execution.

LOAD has already graduated and has a separate 1.5% official-pool fee. [Trading Mechanics](https://loadout.gitbook.io/product-docs/for-traders/trading) and [Fee Structure](https://loadout.gitbook.io/product-docs/overview/fees) explain execution and fees.