IBM Startup Credits
Provides up to $120,000 cloud credits for cloud services and AI.
Quick answer
IBM offers eligible startups up to $120,000 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
$120,000
Startup with IBM
Up to $120,000 in IBM Cloud credits over 12 months. Builder level: $1,000/month, Premium level: $10,000/month.
- Up to $120,000 in technology usage credits (Premium)
- Up to $12,000 in credits (Builder)
- Access to 130+ IBM Cloud services
- Technical mentorship and support
Best for
Do you qualify for IBM?
You likely qualify if
- Startup is under 5 years old with under $1M in revenue
- Have raised a maximum of $5 million in funding
- Building owned (not licensed) software with a public website on your own domain
You won't qualify if
- Already a paying IBM Cloud customer or have previously received IBM Cloud credits
- Your core product is licensed software rather than owned by the startup
Common rejection reasons
- Contact email or website is not on the company's own domain
- Premium tier requested without an approved venture partner referral
How to apply for IBM
-
1
Check eligibility
Be under 5 years old, under $1M in annual revenue, have a minimum viable product, and not be a current IBM Cloud customer.
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2
Prepare your details
Have your company website and a description of your technology ready — AI/ML builds are welcome.
-
3
Apply via IBM for Startups
Apply through the IBM startup partner portal or ibm.com/cloud/startups.
-
4
Get approved
Receive up to $120,000 in IBM Cloud credits to build and scale.
Stacks well with
Founders who claim IBM commonly pair it with these to build a bigger credit stack.
Frequently asked questions
How much does IBM give startups?
IBM provides eligible startups with up to $120,000 in credits and resources across its programs.
Does IBM take equity from startups?
No. IBM's startup credits and perks are non-dilutive — you do not give up any equity to receive them.
Who qualifies for IBM?
Eligible startups generally must meet criteria such as: Must be less than 5 years old; Must have less than $1M in annual revenue; Must not be a current IBM Cloud customer.
Is IBM free for startups?
Applying is free. IBM provides up to $120,000 in credits and resources with no equity required.
How do I apply for IBM?
1) Check eligibility, 2) Prepare your details, 3) Apply via IBM for Startups, 4) Get approved. Full steps are on this page.
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