OpenPrivate programOpen to for-profit businesses

Microsoft for Startups

MicrosoftNo deadline listed

Summary

Privately held, for-profit software startups (before Series C) get free Azure credits (in-kind, not cash). Without an investor you start with $1,000, then $4,000 more after verification, and can unlock up to $150,000 over time. Startups with a partner investor's referral code typically start at $100,000.

About this grant

Microsoft for Startups gives software startups Azure credits, AI tools, technical guidance and go-to-market support through a single application. Startups without an investor start with a smaller Azure credit offer and can unlock more credits over time, while startups backed by a Microsoft for Startups Investor Network partner get larger benefits earlier.

Who can apply

  • Small businesses
  • For-profit companies

Develops a software-based product or service owned by the company

Privately held and for-profit

Headquartered in a country where Azure services are available

Has not received more than $350,000 in lifetime free Azure credits and has not raised Series C or later

Not an educational institution, government organization, consultancy or agency, and not involved in cryptocurrency mining

Larger investor benefits need a referral code from a partner investor, accelerator, incubator, angel network or university

A credit card is required to activate Azure credits

Topics and uses of funds

Topics

  • In kind
  • Cloud computing
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Entrepreneurship

Money can be used for

  • Cloud computing
  • Software
  • Technical assistance

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