Microsoft for Startups: $1,000 Azure credits instantly, up to $150,000
New Azure customers get $1,000 in credits with no application; verified AI startups can scale that to $150,000 with a business account.
Step-by-step guide
How to do it
Create an Azure account
The $1,000 no-application grant lands on new customer accounts.
Apply at Microsoft for Startups
Complete the company profile — precise legal name, a live product website and accurate stage details.
Pass business verification
Verified status lifts total credits to $5,000; verification-window credits last 180 days.
Layer the AI track
AI-native products backed by enrolled investors unlock up to $150,000 through the Startups portal.
Details & Context
Microsoft's startup program stacks in three layers. Any newly created Azure account gets $1,000 in credits immediately, no application. Passing business verification unlocks a total of up to $5,000, with credits valid for 90 days initially and 180 days after verification. AI-focused startups in the Microsoft for Startups program, backed and verified, can reach up to $150,000 in Azure credits — the program also bundles AI model access (Azure OpenAI / Foundry), developer tools, marketplace licensing offers and a global customer network. The application is the same shape every time: company profile, stage, and description — the limiter to the larger tiers is usually incomplete business information.
Eligibility & Verification Requirements
Notes from people who claimed this perk
Real notes from people who actually tested this perk.