Cloud Credits for Startups: How Founders Can Save Up to $350k on AWS, Google & Microsoft January 2026
Is your business relying on the cloud to deliver your solution? Did you know that AWS, Google and Microsoft offer cloud credits that can help offset up to $350,000 USD in costs of your cloud platform.
☁️ AWS – AWS Activate
AWS has the AWS Activate program. Activate Founder for up to $1,000 USD. Activate Portfolio for up to $100,000 USD (need to be connected to an Activate Provider).
https://aws.amazon.com/startups/credits
☁️ Google Cloud – Google for Startups
Google has Google Cloud Credits. Start tier for up to $2,000 USD; Scale tier for rebate of 100% of Google Cloud and Firebase usage up to $100,000 USD in year 1 and in year 2, 20% of spend up to a further $100,000 USD in year 2, and the AI scale tier of up to $150,000 USD (specifically for using Vertex AI or Gemini). This brings the total to $350,000..
https://cloud.google.com/startup/benefits
☁️ Microsoft – Microsoft for Startups
Startups affiliated with the Microsoft for Startups Investor Network get up to $150,000 USD in credits and are eligible for a higher level of support.
https://foundershub.startups.microsoft.com/signup
These aren’t grants. They won’t put cash in your bank. But they reduce your burn, stretch your runway, and buy you more time to reach traction.
Worth checking if you’re building on cloud.
Contact Wayne on wayne@arealcfo.com.au or 0412 227 052.
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