diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index d1790e1..7651a29 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -9,11 +9,18 @@
   Measure whether your skills actually work — on your own infrastructure.
 </p>
 
+<p align="center">
+  <img src="https://img.shields.io/badge/status-alpha-orange" alt="Alpha" />
+</p>
+
+> **Alpha software** — Arctiq is in early development. Expect breaking changes. Contributors are welcome!
+
 <p align="center">
   <a href="#quick-start">Quick Start</a> &middot;
   <a href="#features">Features</a> &middot;
   <a href="#configuration">Configuration</a> &middot;
   <a href="#development">Development</a> &middot;
+  <a href="#contributing">Contributing</a> &middot;
   <a href="#license">License</a>
 </p>