DigitalOcean Startup Credits
Provides up to $5,000 in infrastructure credits for their cloud platform.
Quick answer
DigitalOcean offers eligible startups up to $100,000 in credits and resources, with no equity required. An application is required, and it is open to startups worldwide (pre-seed – series a).
Available programs
$5,000
DigitalOcean for Startups
Get cloud infrastructure credits and resources to help build and scale your startup on DigitalOcean's cloud platform.
- Up to $5,000 in infrastructure credits for 12 months
- Access to DigitalOcean's technical resources
- Priority support
- Access to startup-focused educational content
- Connection to the DigitalOcean community
$100,000
DigitalOcean for Startups
Reported up to $100,000 in compute credits; partner perk bundle
- Reported up to $100,000 in compute credits; partner perk bundle
Best for
Do you qualify for DigitalOcean?
You likely qualify if
- Have raised $10 million or less in funding
- Are a new DigitalOcean customer with no prior account or promo credits
- Have a company website with a matching corporate/business email
You won't qualify if
- Run a service-based business such as a consultancy or agency
- Already have a DigitalOcean account or have used DigitalOcean promotional credits
Common rejection reasons
- Business email does not match the company website domain
- Applicant is an existing or former DigitalOcean customer
How to apply for DigitalOcean
-
1
Check eligibility
Be under 5 years old, part of an approved accelerator or incubator, and have no prior DigitalOcean credits.
-
2
Prepare your details
Have your company website and accelerator/incubator affiliation ready.
-
3
Apply via DigitalOcean Hatch
Submit at digitalocean.com/hatch.
-
4
Get approved
Receive infrastructure credits (up to $100k via partner bundles) plus Hatch program perks.
Stacks well with
Founders who claim DigitalOcean commonly pair it with these to build a bigger credit stack.
Frequently asked questions
How much does DigitalOcean give startups?
DigitalOcean provides eligible startups with up to $100,000 in credits and resources across its programs.
Does DigitalOcean take equity from startups?
No. DigitalOcean's startup credits and perks are non-dilutive — you do not give up any equity to receive them.
Who qualifies for DigitalOcean?
Eligible startups generally must meet criteria such as: Must be less than 5 years old; Must be part of an approved accelerator or incubator; Must not have previously received DigitalOcean credits.
Is DigitalOcean free for startups?
Applying is free. DigitalOcean provides up to $100,000 in credits and resources with no equity required.
How do I apply for DigitalOcean?
1) Check eligibility, 2) Prepare your details, 3) Apply via DigitalOcean Hatch, 4) Get approved. Full steps are on this page.
Related startup credits
Related resources
5 Reasons Why Startups Choose Zendesk Over Fin (Formerly Intercom)
Zendesk for Startups vs. the Fin Early Stage program: eligibility through Series B, up to 2 years free, 50 seats, 1:1 onboarding, and a complete resolution platform. A guest post from Zendesk.
Accelerator Benefits: Funding, Mentorship, and Real Outcomes
Explore accelerator benefits from funding and credits to mentorship, network access, and demo day outcomes, plus how to evaluate if a program is worth
Incorporation Requirements Every Founder Should Know
Learn core incorporation requirements for startups, from filing documents and registered agents to fees, jurisdiction differences, and timelines in 2026.