About

Microsoft for Startups (Founders Hub) helps companies build and scale on Azure with credits ranging from $1,000 to $150,000 USD across four levels. The program provides development tools like GitHub Enterprise and Visual Studio, unlimited 1:1 technical advisory, and AI capabilities including Azure OpenAI Service. Eligible startups must be privately held, for-profit, building software products, pre-Series D, and have used less than $10,000 in prior Azure credits. Credits expire after 12 months or when consumed. The program aims to accelerate startup innovation while reducing costs through Azure's enterprise infrastructure.

Tiers

Level 1 (L1)

up to 1,000

Entry-level tier granting $1,000 in Azure credits to help founders launch quickly.

$1,000 Azure credits for up to 12 months
Unlimited 1:1 sessions with Azure engineers and mentors
Free access to Microsoft Teams, GitHub Enterprise, and more
No external funding requirements

Eligibility

Privately held, for-profit, software-based product
No prior usage of more than $10k in Azure credits

Effort: Very low 1 step to apply

Sign up on Founders Hub. Create a Microsoft for Startups account, provide basic startup details, and register an FEIN if applicable. Apply ↗

Level 2 (L2)

up to 5,000

For early-stage startups that have begun validating their idea and have used part of L1.

$5,000 Azure credits for up to 12 months
Technical support and best practices for AI integration
Broadening access to partner offers (e.g., LinkedIn Premium, Stripe Atlas)
Continued advisory from Azure engineers

Eligibility

Has already enrolled in L1
Has used ~50% of L1 credits

Effort: Low 1 step to apply

Request Level 2 Upgrade. Demonstrate ongoing project progress and usage of L1 credits. Provide any requested business verification. Apply for L2 ↗

Level 3 (L3)

up to 25,000

For startups with product traction seeking more substantial Azure credits.

$25,000 Azure credits for up to 12 months
Deeper engagement with Microsoft’s AI and cloud experts
Demo opportunities and co-selling support
Potential GPU VM access, subject to quota

Eligibility

Has substantially used L2 credits
Able to demonstrate a functional MVP or solution demo

Effort: Moderate 1 step to apply

Request Level 3 Upgrade. Submit a short demo of your solution, discuss resource needs, and pass business verification. Apply for L3 ↗

Level 4 (L4)

up to 150,000

For scaling AI startups looking for enterprise-grade support with up to $150k in credits.

$150,000 Azure credits for up to 12 months
Priority access to advanced AI models
Comprehensive technical and business advisory
Co-selling, marketplace exposure, and deeper partnership opportunities

Eligibility

Has reached usage milestones in L3
Able to show a legitimate business with scaling customer demand

Effort: High 1 step to apply

Request Level 4 Upgrade. Demonstrate higher usage of Azure resources and a strong go-to-market trajectory. Provide updated business verification if requested. Apply for L4 ↗

FAQ

What are the general requirements for Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub?

Applicants must be privately held, for-profit, building a software-based product or service, and have not reached Series D funding or used more than $10k in Azure credits previously.

Do I need external funding or a specific stage to qualify?

No. Microsoft for Startups accepts startups at all stages, even if they have no external funding. You simply move through levels as your usage and business grow.

How long do the credits last?

Azure credits expire 12 months after you are granted a tier’s credits or once you fully consume them, whichever comes first. Upgrading tiers typically resets the 12-month clock.

Can I use the credits for GPU-based AI workloads?

Yes. GPU quotas may require a separate request or approval, especially for high-demand regions, but many participants have successfully obtained them through support tickets.

Are there vendor lock-in penalties or fees for the program?

No. There are no fees or explicit lock-in requirements. However, once your sponsorship credits expire, you become responsible for any ongoing usage costs.