Microsoft for Startups
Quick answer
Self-serve path without an investor: $1,000 (90 days) plus another $4,000 after business verification; investor-referred path: starting at $100,000 and up to $150,000 in Azure credits (up to $200,000 via the Investor Network).
What you get
- Up to $150,000 in Azure credits (usable on Azure OpenAI / AI Foundry)
- Discounted or free benefits for GitHub Enterprise, Microsoft 365 Business Premium, LinkedIn Premium, Visual Studio Enterprise, and more
- Azure Standard Support and technical expert assistance
How the value is counted: Self-serve $5,000; investor-referred $100,000-$150,000; Investor Network up to $200,000; lifetime cap on free Azure credits is $350,000.
Do you qualify?
Registered legal entity, privately held for-profit company, with its own software product, pre-Series C; bootstrapped teams can take the $5,000 tier; higher tiers require a referral code from a partner investor/accelerator.
Likely yes, if…
- Bootstrapped teams (no VC required)
- Companies without a VC or partner referral
Likely no, if…
- Existing customers of the product
How to apply
- Open the official program page Microsoft startup program .
- Requires a personal Microsoft account (sign-in with work/school email is not accepted) with no existing Azure subscription; a payment card must be linked.
- Submit the application. Review typically takes Self-serve eligibility check, completed in about 15 minutes..
- Once approved, credits or seats are granted to your account per the terms below.
Catches worth knowing
FAQ
How much can you get from Microsoft for Startups?
Self-serve $5,000; investor-referred $100,000-$150,000; Investor Network up to $200,000; lifetime cap on free Azure credits is $350,000.
Who qualifies for Microsoft for Startups?
Registered legal entity, privately held for-profit company, with its own software product, pre-Series C; bootstrapped teams can take the $5,000 tier; higher tiers require a referral code from a partner investor/accelerator.
How long do the credits or perks last?
Credits must be activated within 90 days and are valid for up to 24 months.
How long does the application review take?
Self-serve eligibility check, completed in about 15 minutes.
What do you need to apply?
Requires a personal Microsoft account (sign-in with work/school email is not accepted) with no existing Azure subscription; a payment card must be linked.