Ddos 
Previously, startups were eligible to apply for up to $150,000 in Microsoft Azure credits, allowing them to utilize a wide array of services on Microsoft’s cloud computing platform free of charge until the credits were fully exhausted.
However, on June 27, 2025, Microsoft issued a new memorandum announcing significant changes to this program. Under the revised framework, the requirements for obtaining free Azure credits have become more stringent, and the total credit amount has been markedly reduced. As a result, many early-stage or lesser-known startups may now find themselves ineligible for such benefits.
Specifically, startups must now secure backing from accredited investors to qualify for the program. According to Microsoft’s updated policy, these investors must be accelerators, venture capitalists, or universities who have financially invested in the startup and are therefore eligible to issue formal recommendations. Only with such endorsements can a startup apply for the Azure credit program.
Startups that have not gone through accelerator programs, received VC funding, or launched via university initiatives will be unable to access Microsoft Azure’s complimentary credits, leaving many without recourse due to the heightened eligibility bar.
For those lacking investor endorsements, Microsoft has introduced a secondary self-service pathway. Under this route, startups can receive a maximum of $5,000 in credits. Of this, $1,000 becomes available for use within 90 days of registration, and the remaining $4,000 may be unlocked after business verification and used within 180 days. All credits must be utilized within 270 days of issuance, after which they will automatically expire.
In essence, the once-generous offer of up to $150,000 in cloud credits has been replaced with a capped, time-limited $5,000 allowance—an amount far less sufficient for most early-stage startups that lack institutional backing.
Startups that were previously approved under the older terms may continue using their remaining Azure credits until they expire. The updated program officially takes effect on July 1, and all new applicants will be required to comply with the revised submission criteria.
Meanwhile, Google Cloud Platform (GCP) continues to offer up to $200,000 in credits for eligible startups, with AI-focused ventures qualifying for as much as $350,000. Amazon Web Services (AWS) provides startup credits of up to $100,000.
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