403 PERMISSION_DENIED – Gemini API project denied access

Hello,

I am trying to use the Gemini API for a student internship project called AI Cognitive Alarm.

I created a new Google AI Studio project and API key and integrated the Gemini API using the Google GenAI Node.js SDK.

My request successfully reaches my Node.js backend, but when the backend calls Gemini, I receive:

403 PERMISSION_DENIED: Your project has been denied access. Please contact support.

Project name: AI Cognitive Alarm Test
Project ID: gen-lang-client-07322512..

I have also checked the recent API-key restriction requirements. My API key is restricted to the Gemini API.

Could someone please advise whether this project needs to be reviewed or whether there is another way to obtain Gemini API access?

Thank you.