> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://orbs-doc.gitbook.io/pos/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://orbs-doc.gitbook.io/pos/orbs-pos-universe/becoming-the-guardian/certified-committee.md).

# Certified committee

{% hint style="warning" %}
Being a certified guardian is optional
{% endhint %}

## Join certified committee (bootstrap funds)

In order to incentivize Guardians to participate in the Certified committee by covering their costs, we included an additional bootstrap fund for Guardians who join the Certified committee. This fund is distributed in DAI, pegged to USD, popular in many DeFi applications. It provides profitability even if the token value fluctuates. Furthermore the fund is designed to cover the cost of operating a validator node while running a small number of Virtual Chains during the network early stages. This is important as it provides developers with the ease of mind that the network will continue to operate even under unexpected price fluctuations.

A Guardian that operates a validator node and goes through the certification process to participate in the Certified committee will be entitled to receive the annual total of 3000 DAI. This fund provides an incentive for Guardians to participate in the Certified committee, thus increasing the participating stake in this committee and making the network more attractive to app users, while covering the reduced cost of operation.

If you want to join in the Certified committee, please contact to <hello@orbs.com>