> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://canopy-network.gitbook.io/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://canopy-network.gitbook.io/docs/contributor-hub/get-started.md).

# Get Started

## Canopy Contributor Values

**1. Collective Ownership**: We believe infrastructure should be shaped by those who use it. Every contributor is a stakeholder in the Canopy ecosystem. 

**2. Practical Coordination**: We aim to reduce friction, not add it. Contributions should be high-signal, grounded in utility, and help others build faster or smarter. You don’t need to ask permission to contribute, just go for it.

**3. Composable by Default**: We value systems, content, and tools that can be remixed, extended, or reused by others in the ecosystem.

**4. Transparency Over Perfection**: Share early and often. We grow through feedback, iteration, and open dialogue. The first draft doesn’t need to be perfect.

**5. Respectful Disagreement**: Diverse perspectives make us stronger. Disagreeing is welcome so long as it’s done constructively and respectfully.

**6. Clarity Before Hype**: We prioritize clarity, accuracy, and accessibility over jargon or hype. Canopy is for real builders solving real problems.

**7. Give First**: We believe in upholding the spirit of open-source and decentralization. Open-source thrives when those who gain value from a system give back, without expectations of getting anything back.

## Contribution Paths

### **Say Hello & Hang Out**

* Join the [Discord](https://discord.gg/canopynetwork) and post a brief intro and explain why Canopy interests you.
* Engage with the community, share insights, and help answer questions. Teaching and learning can go a long way for both sides to grow together.
* Share [feedback and suggestions](https://discord.com/channels/1310733928436600912/1338594502704758834), as every perspective helps to strengthen our network.
* Ask yourself how you can best contribute your abilities to Canopy. Every contribution, no matter how small or large, is a great benefit to all.

### **Spread the Word & Support**

* Follow [@CNPYNetwork](https://x.com/CNPYNetwork) on X & [@canopynetwork.bsky.social](https://bsky.app/profile/did:plc:k5e6mfivm5fq5pnts2wpq2cn) on Bluesky, enable notifications so you're first to share the news.
* Spread our mission, and help to highlight Nested Chain launches, milestones, or research posts.
* Help us reach new audiences by translating key announcements into languages you know. Canopy is a global chain without borders, so let’s make sure of it.

### **Build Cool Stuff**

* [Build your own L1](https://canopy-network.gitbook.io/docs/build/build-a-new-l1) with Canopy as a Nested Chain via our ‘clone and fork’ approach, and start your path to becoming a fully sovereign L1 blockchain.
* Contribute code to our [GitHub](https://github.com/canopy-network/canopy) by helping to improve Canopy Blockchain and/or resolving [issues](https://github.com/canopy-network/canopy/issues). Canopy is an open-source project, created by the community, for the community.
* [Integrate your existing chain](https://canopy-network.gitbook.io/docs/build/connect-an-external-chain) into the Canopy ecosystem as a generalized side-chain application, all without requiring any modification to the existing chain software or protocol.
* Extend Canopy’s functionality by contributing to building additional tooling and improving the overall experience of our ecosystem.
* Hunt them [bounties](https://discord.com/channels/1310733928436600912/1338592392642822205) when available for treasures, and become a legendary bounty hunter!

### **Keep the Chain Humming**

* Join the Node party by staking and restaking your CNPY to [become a Validator or Delegator](https://canopy-network.gitbook.io/docs/node-runner) to keep our entire network secured, and receive both the block reward and the native rewards of nested chains through our [unique cross-pollinating economics](https://canopy-network.gitbook.io/docs/welcome-to-canopy/what-is-canopy/tokenomics).
* Test new releases and report your logs in our Discord’s [Developer Chat](https://discord.com/channels/1310733928436600912/1318345105848926228) or [open Issue tickets](https://github.com/canopy-network/canopy/issues) on our Github so we can squash them bugs.

### **Create Content, Teach and Inspire**

* Publish explainer videos, threads, infographics, and smart memes in alignment with [our branding](https://www.canopynetwork.org/brand-kit) to teach and inspire others to learn more about Canopy.
* Support the improvement of [our documentation](https://canopy-network.gitbook.io/docs) with clarification, tutorial walk-throughs, or architecture diagrams. Write the tutorial you wish existed.
* Publish your own insight blogs. We love unique opinions, so don’t be afraid to let them be known.
* Create funny brand-aligned memes for a good laugh, but most importantly, keep it “big brain” and authentic.
* Review the [Editorial and Style Guide](/docs/contributor-hub/editorial-and-style-guide.md) for best practices.

### **Seed Future Growth**

* Stake CNPY as a Validator to earn voting power under our ‘[United Governance](https://canopy-network.gitbook.io/docs/welcome-to-canopy/what-is-canopy/core-features/united-governance)’.
* Partake in the discourse of governance proposals and straw polls to solidify your voice within the ecosystem and plant the seeds for future growth.
* Got a great idea? Submit a governance [Straw Poll](https://discord.com/channels/1310733928436600912/1323338300005552209) or [Proposal](https://discord.com/channels/1310733928436600912/1336035352326049842) to kick it off while adhering to the ‘Proposal Post Guidelines’. While the agreement of the Validator Set determines voting, any participant within the ecosystem may submit a governance straw poll or proposal.

## Code of Conduct

We enforce the [Contributor Covenant](https://www.contributor-covenant.org/). By participating, you agree to uphold a respectful & harassment-free environment.

## Guidelines & Best Practices

Please refer to the [Editorial and Style Guide](/docs/contributor-hub/editorial-and-style-guide.md).

### Respect & Inclusion

We are a values-driven network. All contributors are expected to:

* Engage respectfully
* Uphold inclusive and non-discriminatory communication
* Follow the Code of Conduct