OpenAI Startup Credits
OpenAI has no public self-serve credit application. Startups get API credits through an OpenAI partner VC (OpenAI names Thrive, Sequoia, a16z, Kleiner Perkins and Conviction) with a referral code. OpenAI does not publish the credit amount.
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Quick answer
OpenAI offers eligible startups API credits through partner VCs (amount not published), with no equity required. An application is required, and it is open to startups worldwide with a referral from a partner investor or accelerator (pre-seed – series a).
Available programs
Varies (via VC partners)
OpenAI for Startups
OpenAI gives API credits to startups backed by its partner VCs, including Thrive, Sequoia, a16z, Kleiner Perkins and Conviction. Your VC gives you a referral code; there is no public application form. OpenAI does not publish the credit amount.
- API credits through OpenAI partner VCs (referral code required)
- Rate limit upgrades
- Time with OpenAI solutions engineers
- Startup events and a direct line to the OpenAI Startup team
- OpenAI Grove cohorts (applications closed January 12, 2026)
Best for
Do you qualify for OpenAI?
You likely qualify if
- You are backed by an OpenAI partner VC and have a referral code from them
- You have an OpenAI platform account and org ID
- You can describe your product and how you plan to use the API
You won't qualify if
- You have no OpenAI partner VC and no referral code (there is no public self-serve application)
Common rejection reasons
- VC or accelerator is not in OpenAI's partner network
- No verifiable funding or product traction at time of application
How to apply for OpenAI
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1
Know the route
OpenAI has no public self-serve credit application. Credits come through OpenAI partner VCs; OpenAI names Thrive, Sequoia, a16z, Kleiner Perkins and Conviction. OpenAI Grove, a separate cohort program, closed applications on January 12, 2026.
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2
Ask your VC
If your investor is an OpenAI partner, they can give you a referral code. If you’re not sure, ask them.
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3
Prepare your details
You’ll need the referral code, your OpenAI org ID, a description of your product and how you’ll use the API, a business email, and basic funding details. No pitch deck.
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4
Claim through your VC
There is no application form at openai.com/startups; you claim credits with the referral code from your VC. OpenAI does not publish the credit amount.
Stacks well with
Founders who claim OpenAI commonly pair it with these to build a bigger credit stack.
Frequently asked questions
How much does OpenAI give startups?
OpenAI provides eligible startups with API credits through partner VCs (amount not published) across its programs.
Does OpenAI take equity from startups?
No. OpenAI's startup credits and perks are non-dilutive — you do not give up any equity to receive them.
Who qualifies for OpenAI?
Eligible startups generally must meet criteria such as: Backed by an OpenAI partner VC and holding a referral code from that VC; An OpenAI platform account and org ID; A business email and basic funding details.
Is OpenAI free for startups?
Applying is free. OpenAI provides API credits through partner VCs (amount not published) with no equity required.
How do I apply for OpenAI?
1) Know the route, 2) Ask your VC, 3) Prepare your details, 4) Claim through your VC. Full steps are on this page.
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