Microsoft Startup Credits
Offers up to $150,000 in Azure credits for cloud services and development tools.
Quick answer
Microsoft offers eligible startups up to $150,000 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
$150,000
Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub
Access Azure credits, development tools, mentorship, and technical guidance to build and scale your startup.
- Up to $150,000 in Azure credits
- Free access to developer tools including GitHub Enterprise
- Microsoft 365 Business Premium licenses
- Technical support and architecture guidance
- Access to Microsoft's mentor network
$5,000
Azure Cloud Credits for Startups
Get started with Azure and receive credits to build your startup's infrastructure.
- $5,000 in Azure credits for 1 year
- Free access to development tools
- Azure learning resources
- Technical documentation and guides
$100,000
Microsoft for Startups — Investor Offer
Typically $100,000 in Azure credits (up to $150,000 for some); separate $5,000 Azure offer exists
- Typically $100,000 in Azure credits (up to $150,000 for some); separate $5,000 Azure offer exists
Best for
Do you qualify for Microsoft?
You likely qualify if
- Develop a software-based product or service owned by your company
- Startup is less than 7 years old
- Have a verifiable business after completing identity/business verification
You won't qualify if
- Your product is not software-based or not owned by your company
- Company exceeds the 7-year age limit
Common rejection reasons
- Business verification fails or company details cannot be confirmed
- Product is a reseller/services offering rather than owned software IP
How to apply for Microsoft
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1
Check eligibility
Be under 7 years old, under $10M in annual revenue, building a B2B technology product, and not a past Microsoft for Startups participant.
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2
Choose your track
The base Founders Hub tier is self-serve; the full $150k Azure Investor Offer requires acceptance via a Microsoft VC/partner network.
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3
Apply via Microsoft for Startups
Sign up at startups.microsoft.com with your professional website and company details.
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4
Get approved
Base benefits unlock immediately; higher Azure credit tiers are granted after partner verification.
Stacks well with
Founders who claim Microsoft commonly pair it with these to build a bigger credit stack.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Microsoft give startups?
Microsoft provides eligible startups with up to $150,000 in credits and resources across its programs.
Does Microsoft take equity from startups?
No. Microsoft's startup credits and perks are non-dilutive — you do not give up any equity to receive them.
Who qualifies for Microsoft?
Eligible startups generally must meet criteria such as: Must be less than 7 years old; Must have annual revenue less than $10M; Must not be a previous Microsoft for Startups participant.
Is Microsoft free for startups?
Applying is free. Microsoft provides up to $150,000 in credits and resources with no equity required.
How do I apply for Microsoft?
1) Check eligibility, 2) Choose your track, 3) Apply via Microsoft for Startups, 4) Get approved. Full steps are on this page.
