Build your AI-enabled startup with up to $150,000 in Azure credits, expert 1:1 guidance, and a network of business and technical resources through Microsoft for Startups.
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Microsoft for Startups (Founders Hub) helps companies build and scale on Azure with credits ranging from $1,000 to $150,000 USD across four levels. The program provides development tools like GitHub Enterprise and Visual Studio, unlimited 1:1 technical advisory, and AI capabilities including Azure OpenAI Service. Eligible startups must be privately held, for-profit, building software products, pre-Series D, and have used less than $10,000 in prior Azure credits. Credits expire after 12 months or when consumed. The program aims to accelerate startup innovation while reducing costs through Azure's enterprise infrastructure.
Microsoft Azure
Up to $150,000 in Azure credits
Credits
$150,000 USD
Active
Entry-level tier granting $1,000 in Azure credits to help founders launch quickly. · Up to 12 months
Create a Microsoft for Startups account, provide basic startup details, and register an FEIN if applicable.
ApplyFor early-stage startups that have begun validating their idea and have used part of L1. · Up to 12 months
Demonstrate ongoing project progress and usage of L1 credits. Provide any requested business verification.
Apply for L2For startups with product traction seeking more substantial Azure credits. · Up to 12 months
Submit a short demo of your solution, discuss resource needs, and pass business verification.
Apply for L3For scaling AI startups looking for enterprise-grade support with up to $150k in credits. · Up to 12 months
Demonstrate higher usage of Azure resources and a strong go-to-market trajectory. Provide updated business verification if requested.
Apply for L4Reddit discussion confirms Microsoft for Startups eligibility: pre-Series D, software-focused startups with under $10k prior Azure usage. Four credit tiers available ($1k-$150k), valid for 12 months. Upgrade to next tier possible at 50% usage. Program includes technical support, Office 365, and GitHub Enterprise benefits. Most report easy approval process.
Applicants must be privately held, for-profit, building a software-based product or service, and have not reached Series D funding or used more than $10k in Azure credits previously.
No. Microsoft for Startups accepts startups at all stages, even if they have no external funding. You simply move through levels as your usage and business grow.
Azure credits expire 12 months after you are granted a tier's credits or once you fully consume them, whichever comes first. Upgrading tiers typically resets the 12-month clock.
Yes. GPU quotas may require a separate request or approval, especially for high-demand regions, but many participants have successfully obtained them through support tickets.
No. There are no fees or explicit lock-in requirements. However, once your sponsorship credits expire, you become responsible for any ongoing usage costs.
Build your AI-enabled startup with up to $150,000 in Azure credits, expert 1:1 guidance, and a network of business and technical resources through Microsoft for Startups.
