You’re aware how powerful cloud technology is, yet you seem to be approaching it as if you had an on-prem infrastructure? Every dollar you spend on idle servers is one less dollar for hiring top talent or marketing your MVP. AWS Credits aren’t a perk, they’re your lifeline, giving you the freedom to stay focused on what truly matters: building something remarkable.
Turn “Ouch” Into “Ahh” with AWS Credits
Cloud computing gives you instant access to servers, databases, and global reach, but it can also punch a hole in your budget. AWS Credits flip that script. Instead of dreading the next billing cycle, you gain budget relief to channel funds into R&D, customer acquisition or that team retreat you’ve been promising.
Three Programs, One Goal: Fuel Your Growth
AWS Activate
The go-to for most startups. Sign up and unlock up to $100,000 in service credits, plus:
- Hands-on Support: Talk directly to AWS engineers when you hit a snag.
- Learning Resources: From quick-start guides to in-depth webinars.
Migration Acceleration Program (MAP)
Switching from another cloud provider or legacy infrastructure? This program offers:
- Migration Credits: Offset transition costs.
- Solutions Architect Access: Expert guidance every step of the way.
- Automated Tools: Simplify complex migrations without draining your team.
ISV Accelerate
- If you sell software, get ready for:
- Co-selling Opportunities: Collaborate with AWS sales teams.
- AWS Partner Network Exposure: Showcase your product to millions of customers.
Do You Qualify? (Spoiler: You Probably Do)
AWS keeps eligibility broad but startup-focused:
- Company Age: Under 10 years old.
- Funding Stage: From bootstrapped to Series A.
- Credit History: No previous large AWS grants used.
Pro tip: Applications backed by accelerators, incubators, or VCs often get fast-tracked, but self-applications can sail through, too.
Your Roadmap to Credits
- Gather Your Docs: Business registration, pitch deck and a simple financial summary.
- Apply Online: Spend about 15 minutes in the AWS Activate Console.
- Wait for “Yes!”: Approval emails usually land within 3–5 business days.
- Deploy and Save: Credits automatically apply to your AWS billing.
Pro tip: How To Squeeze Every Drop of Value
Monitor Spending: Use AWS Cost Explorer and Budgets to set up alerts.
Leverage Spot Instances: Ideal for batch jobs—often up to 90% cheaper.
Embrace Serverless: Services like AWS Lambda and Fargate eliminate idle capacity costs.
Take the Next Step
How to get started? Head to the AWS Activate Console and apply for AWS resources.
Your cloud runway shouldn’t be a countdown to zero. Treat it as your springboard. Claim those AWS Credits, keep your core team thriving and let your innovation take flight. You’ve got the vision; now get the boost to make it happen.
