# Build, Grow & Find an Alliance

## Step 3: Join an Active Alliance

Joining an active alliance is one of the most important things a new player can do.

An active alliance provides:

- Resource help
- Alliance gifts
- Group events
- Help with progression
- Protection and support from other players

Look for an alliance with **active members** and check its recent activity.

If you join an alliance that isn't active, **don't be afraid to switch.** Staying in a dead alliance can slow down your progress.

## Step 4: Upgrade Your Base

Your **Headquarters (HQ)** is one of your most important buildings because its level controls much of your future progression.

Prioritize upgrading your HQ while gathering the resources needed for continued growth.

A strong early economy helps you progress faster later.

### Use Speed-Ups Wisely

Don't burn through all of your speed-ups on short timers.

Save them when possible for **longer and more important upgrades**, where they provide much greater value.

**Related Guides:**  
*Resources Guide*  
*HQ Upgrade Guide*

We can add those as internal BookStack links once those books/pages are created.

[![ChatGPT Image Sep 30, 2026, 04_16_41 PM.png](https://775intel.com/uploads/images/gallery/2026-09/scaled-1680-/chatgpt-image-sep-30-2026-04-16-41-pm.png)](https://775intel.com/uploads/images/gallery/2026-09/scaled-1680-/chatgpt-image-sep-30-2026-04-16-41-pm.png)