# VDP intake: can the 100k MON self-stake be deferred or sponsored after testnet proof? (new operator question)

**URL:** <https://forum.monad.xyz/t/vdp-intake-can-the-100k-mon-self-stake-be-deferred-or-sponsored-after-testnet-proof-new-operator-question/560>\
**Category:** General\
**Created:** [October 10, 2026, 9:18pm UTC](https://forum.monad.xyz/t/vdp-intake-can-the-100k-mon-self-stake-be-deferred-or-sponsored-after-testnet-proof-new-operator-question/560 "2026-10-10T21:18:03Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 2\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![HostDeFi](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/h/ce73a5/32.png) [@HostDeFi](https://forum.monad.xyz/u/HostDeFi)\
**Post date:** [October 10, 2026, 9:18pm UTC](https://forum.monad.xyz/t/vdp-intake-can-the-100k-mon-self-stake-be-deferred-or-sponsored-after-testnet-proof-new-operator-question/560/1 "2026-10-10T21:18:03Z")

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Hi Monad team,

HostDeFi here a bare-metal multi-chain validator operator. We run our own RPC relay across 80+ networks, custom monitoring/tripwires, and operate validators on several networks. We’re interested in joining the Validator Delegation Program and want to position correctly before the new application form lands.

Our operating model is proof-of-capability before capital: we would rather run a Monad testnet validator on our own hardware, demonstrate uptime, monitoring discipline, and operational readiness for the 4+ week evaluation period, and then ask about delegation rather than commit stake on paper first.

Two questions on the 100,000 MON self-stake requirement for validator registration:

1. Can the self-stake be deferred, sponsored, or covered after a testnet proof period e.g. program-covered, an ecosystem sponsor, or counted as part of the VDP delegation itself once testnet performance is demonstrated?
2. If self-stake is strictly required up front, is there a recommended path for operators who can prove capability on testnet but operate on an infrastructure-services (non-token-capital) model e.g. a scoped infra deliverable (public RPC/indexer/monitoring endpoints) as a substitute?

Happy to share hardware specs, monitoring setup, and our testnet uptime record once our testnet validator has history.

HostDeFi Ops ([validators@hostdefi.com](mailto:validators@hostdefi.com))

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**Author:** ![jacksononchain](https://yyz1.discourse-cdn.com/flex035/user_avatar/forum.monad.xyz/jacksononchain/32/300_2.png) [@jacksononchain](https://forum.monad.xyz/u/jacksononchain)\
**Post date:** [October 15, 2026, 2:38pm UTC](https://forum.monad.xyz/t/vdp-intake-can-the-100k-mon-self-stake-be-deferred-or-sponsored-after-testnet-proof-new-operator-question/560/2 "2026-10-15T14:38:06Z")

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Hey HostDefi team, thank you for the message and the interest in operating on Monad!

1. The VDP covers the 100k self stake for all operators who are successful in their application to join the VDP.
2. I believe the above covers this too.

A few notes:  
a) The VDP is currently undergoing a revamp, the programs new framework and processes will be live soon, the testnet requirement will be 2 weeks of evaluation rather than 4.  
b) You are more than welcome to apply to the VDP when the program is once again live and open for applications. It will be shared publicly across socials etc when that time comes.

In the meantime if you’d like to get acquainted, Id be happy to spin up a TG group for us all. Sending an email over to you now at the above address.

All the best!