are there any API credits for this contest? I see “no purchase necessary” is part of the rules 
also it seems very app focused tho “node/python is OK” is in the FAQ.
maybe if we make an app that calls our server side it’s eligible?
The AI Studio API has a free tier for many developers.
Vertex AI offers cloud credits for first-time users.
That is appropriate and expected. There is no requirement that the Gemini integration be in the client itself - just that the overall solution be Gemini centered.
While there are category prizes for specific client-side technologies, there is no requirement that you use these or any other client-side technology. If you can think of a good and innovative way to use Gemini server side only - go for it!