> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.vault.ky/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.vault.ky/campaigns/campaign-lifecycle.md).

# Campaign lifecycle

Every Vault campaign follows the same path. The rules are fixed when the campaign is created and cannot be changed afterward.

## The stages

**Open.** The campaign is live and accepting contributions. Its goal, deadline, and fee rates are locked. Contributors can send SOL until the deadline passes or the goal is reached.

**Goal reached.** When escrowed contributions reach the campaign target, the campaign enters a short waiting window before fulfillment can proceed. This gives the community a brief signal window before funds move.

**Waiting window.** A ten-minute pause after the goal is met. During this window contributors can add optional tips. Tips are non-refundable and do not count toward the goal, but if tips reach a per-campaign threshold, the campaign becomes ready for fulfillment immediately without waiting for the window to close.

Charity campaigns skip the waiting window entirely.

**Fulfillment.** The escrowed funds are used to fulfill the campaign's stated purpose. Where the campaign is service-backed, Vault purchases or arranges the associated service or deliverable. A successful campaign does not mean the creator receives the escrow balance as an unrestricted payout.

**Refunding.** If the campaign does not meet its success conditions by the deadline, it moves to the refund path. Refunds are processed automatically.

**Closed.** The terminal stage, reached after fulfillment or after refunds complete.

## What the protocol guarantees

The sequence above is enforced on-chain. There is no milestone system, no voting, no partial execution, and no discretionary withdrawal path.

The instructions that advance a campaign through these stages are permissionless — anyone can submit them, not just Vault. If Vault's own infrastructure were unavailable, campaigns could still be progressed through their lifecycle on-chain, and contributors could still recover refunds from a failed campaign.

## Cancellation

Vault can cancel a campaign before settlement occurs. A canceled campaign moves to the refund path, and contributors are refunded on the same terms as any other failed campaign.


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