Airdrops have become a popular way for crypto projects to distribute free tokens to users in order to boost awareness and incentivize participation. Among the top exchanges offering regular airdrop campaigns are Gate.io and MEXC. These platforms make it simple for users to earn free tokens by participating in events like Startup (Gate.io) and Kickstarter (MEXC).
In this guide, you'll learn how to join airdrops on both Gate.io and MEXC, what steps to follow, and how to maximize your chances of receiving rewards.
Airdrops are free token distributions usually tied to simple participation requirements such as holding a token, voting, completing KYC, or registering for an event. Exchanges use airdrops to:
Promote new crypto projects before official listings
Reward loyal users and token holders
Create initial liquidity and community support
By joining airdrops on Gate.io and MEXC, you can receive free crypto that may grow in value over time, with no upfront investment required.
Complete KYC (identity verification) to be eligible
Some Startup campaigns require you to hold GT (GateToken) to qualify or increase your allocation
Check each event’s specific requirements
Go to the “Startup” page under “Finance” or search for it directly in the menu
You’ll see a list of upcoming, ongoing, and completed airdrops
Click on an active Startup listing
Read the project details and tokenomics
Click “Participate” and commit the required amount (sometimes 0 USDT for free claims)
Once the token is listed, your allocation (if successful) will be distributed to your Gate.io wallet
You can hold, trade, or withdraw the tokens
Complete KYC verification to unlock reward eligibility
Most Kickstarter airdrops require you to hold MX tokens, the native token of MEXC
Snapshot-based airdrops may track your holdings over multiple days
In the menu, find “Kickstarter” under the “Earn” or “Events” tab
View current campaigns open for voting or participation
Click on an active Kickstarter project
Vote using MX tokens (usually refundable after the event)
If the project reaches the vote target, the tokens are airdropped to participants
Rewards are sent to your spot wallet once the project is successfully listed on MEXC
You can hold or trade them immediately after launch
KYC is mandatory for eligibility on both platforms
Always check if the airdrop requires staking or token holding
Airdrop tokens may have vesting schedules or unlock conditions
Participation is often first-come, first-served or limited by supply
Follow the exchange’s social media and notifications for updates on new airdrops
Joining airdrops on Gate.io and MEXC is a great way to explore new crypto projects while earning free tokens. By following a few simple steps — creating an account, verifying your identity, and participating in Startup or Kickstarter events — you can start building your portfolio without spending money.
Whether you're a new user or an experienced trader, taking part in these airdrops is a low-risk, high-reward strategy to engage with the evolving crypto ecosystem.