Applying for AWS Activate Credits: A step-by-step guide

The ideas that shape our world can come from anywhere, but it takes more than an idea for a startup to succeed. Over 330,000 startups around the globe have joined AWS Activate since its inception in 2013. Since then, AWS Activate has provided over $7 billion in promotional credits to startups globally. Beyond credits, members also receive technical support and business mentorship—plus learning opportunities through curated training and guidance from startup experts.

Eligible startups can apply to receive up to $100,000 in AWS Activate Credits to help offset costs for more than 200 HAQM services. As you build and scale your business, Activate Credits can be used to build your MVP or reduce cash burn to extend runway as your startup grows. These credits can also be used with HAQM Bedrock, giving you access to leading AI foundation models from companies like AI21 Labs, Anthropic, and Meta—all through a single API.

If you’re ready to apply for AWS Activate Credits, below is more information to help you get started.

Table of contents:

• Eligibility requirements
• Application checklist and guide
• Next steps after approval
• Common questions

Eligibility requirements

We offer two powerful credit packages designed for different stages of your startup's growth. Eligibility depends on your funding stage and affiliation with an Activate Provider - which includes thousands of accelerators, VCs, and startup organizations worldwide.

Activate Founders Package

The Activate Founders Package offers $1,000 in AWS Activate Credits to support early-stage startups. Eligibility includes:

• New to AWS Activate Credits
• Self-funded or pre-Series B
• Have a fully functioning company website
• Founded in the past 10 years

Activate Portfolio Package

The Activate Portfolio Package offers up to $100,000 in AWS Activate Credits for provider-backed startups. Eligibility includes:

• Associated with an Activate Provider and have their Organizational ID.
• Have not previously received AWS Activate Credits of equal or greater value.
• Pre-Series B (most recent funding round must be within the last 12 months, if applicable).
• Have a fully functioning company website.
• Founded in the past 10 years.

Application checklist and guide 

Here’s a step-by-step checklist to follow as you apply for AWS Activate Credits:

Step 1: Sign in or create your AWS Builder ID

To begin your application, select 'Apply Now' from the  AWS Credits page. You'll be prompted to create an AWS Builder ID - your personal profile for accessing AWS tools and services. This ID remains with you across jobs and organizations, so please use your personal email address when creating it.

After creating your Builder ID, verify it through the confirmation email before proceeding. If you already have a Builder ID, select 'Sign in.'

Step 2: Complete your AWS Activate profile

Next, complete your AWS Activate profile. This one-time profile collects essential information about your startup to personalize your experience and streamline your credit application process.

Important: Please use your business email address (matching your startup's domain) for both your AWS Activate profile and credit application. Using consistent domain information helps validate your application and confirm your startup's credentials.

Step 3: Choose your credit package

Select between the Founders Package for self-funded startups or the Portfolio Package for provider-backed startups.

• Founders Package: Designed for early-stage startups (often pre-funding) that haven't yet joined a participating accelerator or venture capital program.
• Portfolio Package: For startups affiliated with an AWS Activate Provider, such as an accelerator, angel investor, or venture capital firm. You'll need your provider's Organization ID (Org ID) to apply.

An Org ID is a unique, case-sensitive code provided by your accelerator, VC, or startup organization. Org IDs are confidential and must be submitted through the official AWS Activate application page. Contact your provider directly if you need an Org ID or if your code appears invalid.

Step 4: Provide startup details

Following package selection, submit accurate information about your startup, including business information, product details, and funding status. This information directly affects your eligibility. Here is what you’ll provide:

• Business information: Include details about your product, target market, and current traction.
• Current funding stage: Specify your correct fundraising stage (pre-seed, seed, Series A, or beyond). Consult with your leadership team if needed, as accurate staging is essential for application assessment.
• Most recent funding date: Enter the date of your latest funding round, whether from angel investors, accelerators, or venture capital. For rounds with multiple close dates, use the most recent date.

Review all information carefully before proceeding to the final application steps.

Step 5: Link your AWS account

Next, link your startup's primary AWS account with your Builder ID. This is necessary to submit your application, and it enables credits to be applied to your startup's billing.

• Creating a New AWS account: If you don't have an AWS account, select 'Create an AWS account.' Use your business email address to ensure consistent domain information. After creating your account, return to the application and select 'Link my AWS account.'
• Linking an Existing AWS account: If you already have an AWS account, select 'Login to AWS Management Console.' Review your contact information to ensure it uses your business email address. Then select 'Link my AWS account.'

If you have trouble linking your AWS account, here are some key tips:

• Ensure you have administrator permissions - either as a root user or an IAM user/group with admin-level permissions.
• Only one AWS Builder ID can link to an AWS account at a time. If you receive an error, check with colleagues to determine if your AWS account is already linked to a Builder ID. If yes, unlink them in the AWS Activate profile on startups.aws.
• Verify your AWS account is active. If your account is inactive or suspended, contact AWS Activate Support before linking it to your AWS Builder ID.

If you need assistance with account linking or domain verification, consult the AWS Activate FAQs or contact your AWS account team.

Step 6: Verify your AWS account

After linking your AWS account, you’ll be prompted to verify it by selecting the ‘Verify your account’ button in the AWS Management Console. This final check ensures that AWS recognizes your Builder ID association correctly and that your account is valid, active, and ready for credits.

If verification works smoothly, you’ll see ‘Accounts linked successfully’ in the console. You can then close the console and return to the AWS Activate Credits application, where you should see that your account has been verified.

Step 7: Review and submit your application

Your application for AWS Activate Credits is almost complete! Before you hit submit, double-check your startup's key information (e.g., funding stage, email domains) to prevent processing delays. After submission, you'll receive a confirmation email.

• Application status: Application processing usually takes 7-10 business days. You'll receive the outcome of your application via email. For real-time updates, check the Credit Application Status page. This page shows any pending or previous applications from the last 18 months, including detailed information on each stage of the review process.
• Receiving credits: If you receive credits, they will automatically apply to your AWS account. You can view your credits balance and expiration date in your AWS Console under Billing --> Credits. Be sure to monitor your balance and note the expiration date.

Common post-submission questions:

• Can I change application details? Unfortunately, applications cannot be edited once submitted. If you discover incorrect information, please cancel your application. Next, unlink your AWS account from your Builder ID before submitting a new application with the correct details.

• What if I haven’t heard back? If it’s been more than 10 business days, check your spam folder for AWS emails and the Credit Application Status page. For additional concerns, contact AWS Activate Support.
• How do you decide which package I receive? If you do not have an Org ID, you are initially eligible for the Founders Package. If you have an Org ID from an Activate Provider, you are eligible for their specific package levels. Ask your Provider for more information.
• Why did I receive less than I applied for? If you applied for more credits than you had before, but have already claimed some portion of that total, your new award might only reflect the difference. For instance, if you have $10K in credits and apply for $100K, you could receive an additional $90K—bringing your total to $100K overall.
• Can credits apply to more than one AWS account or ID? Credits typically sit at the AWS account level.

What to do once you are approved for credits

After receiving an approval email, your AWS Activate Credits are automatically deposited into your AWS account. You can see your credit balance and expiration date in the AWS Billing and Cost Management Console within 3-4 hours.

Tip: Credits usually expire within 1-2 years depending on the package. Mark your credit expiration date on your calendar. Although AWS sends reminders, it’s best to be proactive and avoid letting credits expire. You can monitor your balance in the AWS Billing and Cost Management Console. You'll be charged the standard rates for any ongoing AWS services when your credits run out or if the expiration date passes.

How are credits applied?

• Immediate offset: Credits apply monthly to new AWS usage charges on eligible services. They do not retroactively cover past bills or any historical charges.
• Automatic allocation: You cannot select or prioritize which service(s) your credits go toward. Credits apply automatically to all eligible charges until they’re consumed or expire.
• Upfront coverage: AWS applies credits before charging you out of pocket, ensuring every dollar counts toward your innovation.

Common questions

Can I apply for credits more than once?

Yes, if you still meet the program requirements. In general, you can reapply for AWS Activate Portfolio Credits as long as the following is true:

• Your new application requests a higher amount than your previously approved credits.
• You haven’t reached the maximum lifetime credit cap.

Can I apply for multiple offers from the same provider?

Some AWS Activate Providers offer multiple credit tiers—such as $25K for pre-seed startups and $100K for seed-stage startups. Before you apply for a higher-tier offer, confirm the specific eligibility requirements with your investor or provider, since stage-based packages typically depend on your funding round and company maturity. If your startup meets those conditions:

• You’ll receive the difference. For instance, if you previously received $10,000 in credits but now qualify for $100,000, you’ll get an additional $90,000 when approved.
• You must be affiliated with the same provider. Your investor relationship should still be active. You may not be eligible if you’ve switched providers or no longer meet the criteria.
• You cannot exceed the lifetime credit limit. Even if you qualify for a higher-tier package, you must remain under AWS Activate’s maximum lifetime credit threshold.

In short, stage-based offers aren’t one-size-fits-all, so always confirm your current funding round and eligibility with your provider before pursuing another AWS Activate Credit tier.

Conclusion & next steps

Congrats on applying for AWS Activate Credits! Once you receive credits, explore best practices for cost optimization and work with your account team on advanced usage strategies. 

If you have any lingering questions, check the AWS Activate Credits FAQs or reach out to your AWS account team for personalized support. If you don’t have a dedicated account manager assigned, please contact us through AWS Activate Support. AWS will route you to the appropriate individual or team, ensuring your startup receives the guidance it needs.