AWS Activate — startup credits

AWS Activate offers credits in tiers based on your funding stage. Self-funded founders can start with $1,000 (select participants qualify for up to $5,000); startups backed by a VC, accelerator, or angel investor in AWS's Activate Provider network can apply for up to $200,000 using their provider's Organization ID. AI startups ready to scale beyond Activate may be invited to a separate $200,000+ credit program, arranged through your account manager.

Credits offset infrastructure, data services, and AI/ML model costs, including third-party models on Amazon Bedrock. The program also includes AWS Startup Advisor for personalized technical guidance, AWS Marketplace listing to reach enterprise buyers, and go-to-market support through the AWS Partner Network.

To apply for AWS Activate:

• Founded within the last 10 years
• Pre-Series B funding stage
• An AWS account on a paid tier plan
• New to Activate Credits, or requesting more credits than you've previously received

Thousands of VCs, accelerators, and startup organizations are AWS Activate Providers — examples named on the page include Andreessen Horowitz, Brex, Carta, Greylock Partners, Sequoia, and Y Combinator.

1. Create your AWS Builder ID with a professional email and complete your profile
2. Choose your tier — Activate Founders if self-funded, or Activate Portfolio if backed by a VC or accelerator (you'll need their Organization ID)
3. Tell AWS about your product, funding stage, and company profile
4. Link your AWS account and submit — AWS typically responds within 5-10 business days