AWS Activate Founders

for early stage startups

Do you have an Activate Provider Org ID? Learn about AWS Activate Portfolio here

Start building on AWS for FREE

AWS Activate Founders is our startup program designed to help you build and grow your business. With free tools, resources and expert support, it enables you to quickly get started on AWS, go to market faster, and lower costs. Whether you're beginning your journey or scaling your startup, Activate helps you go further.

What you'll get when joining AWS Activate

$1,000 to $100,000 in AWS credits

Start building on AWS for FREE with credits from Activate. AWS credits are applied to your account to offset eligible AWS Services' fees and charges. You’ll also have the opportunity to receive additional credits as you grow.

Access to AWS technical support

Use your AWS Activate credits to subscribe to a support plan and receive technical support via email as well as general architectural guidance.

Best practice guidance

Get access to AWS Trusted Advisor and AWS Personal Health Dashboard. These tools check and provide guidance on provisioning resources following best practices helping you increase performance and improve security.

Pre-built AWS infrastructure templates

Built by the experts at AWS, Build on AWS is a collection of infrastructure templates and reference architectures curated specifically for startups. Build scalable, reliable, and secure infrastructure in minutes.

Exclusive member-only offers
Take advantage of exclusive offers including free services, products and memberships. We’ve partnered with organizations such as Brex, Slack, and HubSpot to help you get ahead faster.
Personalized content, tools, and resources

Accelerate your startup with business and technical content within the Activate Console. You can also track and monitor your AWS credits and costs.

*All AWS credits are in USD and subject to the AWS Promotional Credit Terms & Conditions.

 

How to apply

Step 1

New to AWS? First create a free AWS account. If you already have an account, go to step 2.

Step 2

Log into your AWS account, and apply for founders by completing the application form. 

Step 3

Look out for an email from AWS on the outcome of your application within 7-10 business days.

Step 1

New to AWS? First create a free AWS account here. If you already have an account, go to step 2.

Step 2

Log into your account and click here to apply. Complete the application form and submit.

Step 3

Look out for an email from AWS on the outcome of your application, usually within 7-10 business days.

Eligibility criteria

To apply to AWS Activate Founders, your startup must meet the following criteria:

  • New to AWS Activate
  • Unfunded or funded (up to and including Pre-Seed, Angel, Seed, Debt Finance, and Series A)
  • Have a functioning company website or online public profile
  • Founded within the last 10 years

See why more startups choose to build on AWS

Thousands of startups are leveraging AWS Activate to build and grow their business. Learn how startups, including DoorDash, Airbnb, Ralali, and Deliveroo have transformed their businesses using AWS.

Have questions?

Get help with applying for AWS Activate, using your AWS credits, Activate Provider onboarding and more.
Not an AWS Customer?
Sign up for a free account today