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AWS startup credits

AWS Activate runs two tiers: an open Founders tier any early founder can self-apply for, and a Portfolio tier worth up to $100K unlocked through an affiliated accelerator or VC. Here is how each one works and which to target.

Compare the tiersBack to directory

The tiers

AWS Activate, tier by tier

2 AWS programs we track. Amounts are representative seed data compiled from public pages — verify current terms before applying.

AWS
Up to $1,000
cloud credits

AWS Activate · Founders

The open, no-strings tier any early founder can self-apply for.

No funding requiredSelf-apply24-month validity

Eligibility

  • Self-funded or bootstrapped startups with no prior AWS credits
  • Company website and a working email on a custom domain
  • Not currently enrolled via an Activate Provider

Bundled perks

  • $350 AWS Support credits
  • Activate console & tooling
  • 1:1 onboarding resources
View programAWS guide
AWS
Up to $100,000
cloud credits

AWS Activate · Portfolio

The high-ceiling tier unlocked through an affiliated accelerator or VC.

No funding requiredPartner / accelerator24-month validity

Eligibility

  • Affiliated with an AWS Activate Provider (accelerator, incubator, VC, or startup program)
  • Early-stage and not previously a recipient of Activate Portfolio credits
  • Apply using your organization’s unique Activate org ID

Bundled perks

  • $1,500 AWS Support credits
  • 80+ partner offers
  • Architecture office hours
View programAWS guide

How to apply

The path to the $100,000 tier

  1. 1

    Confirm you have never claimed Activate credits

    Activate is one-time per startup. New AWS accounts with no prior Activate enrollment qualify for the open Founders tier immediately.

  2. 2

    Self-apply for the Founders tier

    Submit your company name, a website on a custom domain, and a working email. Approval is typically automated and the credits land on your billing account.

  3. 3

    Get an Activate Provider org ID for the Portfolio tier

    Join an AWS Activate Provider — an accelerator, incubator, VC, or startup program — and apply with their unique org ID to unlock the higher ceiling.

  4. 4

    Apply credits before they expire

    Activate credits are valid for 24 months. Plan migrations and reserved workloads so the balance is spent inside the validity window.

FAQ

AWS startup credit questions

How much can a startup get from AWS Activate?
The open Founders tier grants up to $1,000 with no funding or referral required. The Portfolio tier, unlocked through an affiliated AWS Activate Provider, reaches up to $100,000 in AWS credits.
Do I need funding to qualify for AWS credits?
No. AWS Activate Founders is open to self-funded and bootstrapped startups. Only the higher Portfolio tier requires affiliation with an accelerator, incubator, or VC in the Activate Provider network.
How long are AWS Activate credits valid?
Activate credits are valid for 24 months from the date they are applied to your account. Unused credits expire at the end of that window.
Can I get AWS Activate credits twice?
No. Activate is a one-time program per startup. If your company has already received Activate credits, you are not eligible for an additional grant.

Comparing providers?

See how AWS stacks up against Azure and Google Cloud startup programs.

Azure creditsGCP credits