> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://hawkalpha.gitbook.io/what-is-hawkalpha/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://hawkalpha.gitbook.io/what-is-hawkalpha/alpaca-broker/who-is-alpaca.md).

# Who is Alpaca?

[Alpaca.markets](https://alpaca.markets/) is both a brokerage and an API provider for trading. As a brokerage, Alpaca offers commission-free stock and ETF trading through Alpaca Securities LLC, a member of FINRA and SIPC. As an API provider, Alpaca allows users to trade with algorithms, connect with apps, and build services with its easy to use APIs.

HawkAlpha users execute trades via an API connection with their respective Alpaca.markets brokerage account for both paper and live environment.

To open an account with Alpaca, you need to follow these steps:

* Go to [Alpaca.markets](https://alpaca.markets/) website and click on [Sign up](https://app.alpaca.markets/signup)
* Choose the type of account you want to open. Alpaca.markets supports individual taxable accounts and business trading accounts. Every account type includes a paper account for testing.
* Fill out the required information and documents for your account type. For example, for an individual taxable account, you need to provide your personal information, identity verification, tax information, and investment profile.
* Wait for your account approval. This may take up to one business day.


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