When you have a venture backed startup you become eligible for lots of credits at different companies.
One of my favorite credits? AWS credits of course.
We received $25k in AWS credits from one of the investors who invested in us (Calm Company Fund). But what are some other ways businesses can unlock AWS credits?
How Do I Get AWS Credits for a Startup?
To help your startup maximize its AWS credits, we've gathered insights from eight industry professionals, including Marketing and Outreach Managers and Heads of Content. They share their top strategies, ranging from utilizing AWS promotional offers to seeking new user promotions, to ensure your startup gets the most out of AWS services.
- Use AWS Promotional Offers
- Consider Reserved Instances
- Join Accelerator Programs
- Leverage University Connections
- Attend an AWS Startup Day
- Explore AWS EdStart Program
- Apply for AWS Activate
- Seek New User Promotions
Use AWS Promotional Offers
One of the best ways to get AWS credits for your startup is to take advantage of promotional offers available through the AWS platform. By signing up for an AWS account and taking part in various promotions, you can earn credits that will help you save on usage costs.
Many promotions offer credits that can be applied across a variety of services, or in specific cases, toward a particular service type. It's important to read through the terms and conditions associated with each promotion, as some may have limits on the use or time frames when they can be claimed or used. Because these offers change frequently, it's beneficial to keep track of them so you can find the right opportunity when you need it.
Natalia Brzezinska
Marketing and Outreach Manager, ePassportPhoto
Consider Reserved Instances
As a startup, you want to be sure that you're getting the most out of your budget with cloud computing. One way to secure AWS credits is by using reserved instances in order to reduce your costs. Reserved instances allow dedicated usage of EC2 computation capacity and are beneficial because they offer discounted rates or no upfront payments for making a commitment.
Long-term contracts can offer the largest discounts; however, those with short-term commitments may still qualify for lower prices compared to on-demand pricing. Taking advantage of reserved instance savings can help you maximize cost savings for your startup and keep more money in your budget so you can use it towards other needs.
Lorien Strydom
Executive Country Manager, Financer.com
Join Accelerator Programs
One of the best ways to score AWS credits for a startup is through accelerator programs, such as Founder Friendly Labs (FFL). Many startup accelerator programs offer AWS credits as part of their benefits package, and the value of the credits can be substantially higher than the program cost. Look for accelerator programs in your industry or location to see if they offer this perk.
Riya Shah
Marketing Coordinator, Achievable
Leverage University Connections
Even if you haven't recently graduated, check to see if your university has a startup lab and an offer for AWS credits. Amazon obviously values university partnerships. Universities, likewise, want to make alumni successful. This will be even easier if you are a recent graduate or current student. Chances are, you're already using the credits if that's on your mind.
Trevor Ewen
COO, QBench
Attend AWS Startup Day
AWS Startup Day is an event designed for startups to learn about AWS services and get advice from AWS experts. Attendees can also receive up to $1,000 in AWS credits, which can offset the cost of using AWS. To qualify, you need to attend the event and be a startup with less than $10 million in funding.
Paul Somerville
Editor-in-chief, Electric Scooter Guide
Explore AWS EdStart Program
If your startup falls into the EdTech category, you can benefit from the AWS EdStart program. This program is specifically designed for educational startups, where they provide AWS credits, technical support, and a lot more to help push start your venture.
But simply joining the program doesn't guarantee you get the credits; you also need to develop a great team, a sound business plan, and innovative ideas to stand out from the crowd and increase your chances of receiving AWS credits. So if you can do it, you will probably get AWS credits.
Shaun Connell
Founder, Writing Tips Institute
Apply for AWS Activate
The AWS Activate program is an excellent way for startups to access AWS credits and other benefits. This program offers $100,000 of promotional credits and free technical support and training in areas like cloud computing, machine learning, IoT, and more.
Startups can also gain access to useful business-building tools, such as API gateways and IoT device management. To qualify, businesses must show that they are actively using or planning to use AWS soon.
Karl Robinson
CEO, Logicata
Seek New User Promotions
AWS regularly offers promotional credits for new users to encourage them to try their services. These credits can range from $100 to $1,000, depending on the promotion. You can check the AWS website for current promotions or sign up for their email list to receive notifications when new promotions are available.
Tiffany Payne
Head Of Content, PharmacyOnline.co.uk
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