Get $5K to $100K AWS Credits in 2025 (Simple Guide for Startups)

Tutorials & Methods
, ,
1

:compass: Quick Overview (How It Works)

Start with AWS Activate ➜ Apply through trusted partners ➜ Join free programs ➜ Stack higher credit offers ➜ Avoid scams or expired links

image
image1024×1536 171 KB

:green_circle: Start Here: Everyone Gets $1K Free

:backhand_index_pointing_right: Apply on the official page: aws.amazon.com/activate
:white_check_mark: This gives a basic $1,000 AWS credit
:cross_mark: No partner or funding needed
:stopwatch: Instant approval if all info is correct

:money_with_wings: Want $5K? These Are the Easiest Options

Partner What’s Needed Country Limit Link
Mercury Bank EIN + US business US only mercury.com/perks
Stripe Atlas US LLC + EIN Global stripe.com/atlas
YC Startup School Just fill 4 weekly updates Global startupschool.org
Expensify Card Sign up & follow steps Global expensify.com/aws
AWS Startup Loft Apply, no action needed Global aws.amazon.com/startups/loft
Founderpass $99/year subscription Global founderpass.com :warning: Mixed results, some rejected

:pushpin: AWS only accepts the highest approved credit.
:chart_decreasing: Already used $1K? A new $5K offer gives only $4K more.

:upwards_button: Need More? How to Reach $10K to $25K

Platform Credit Amount Requirement Link
Beamstart $10,000 Must use 70% of earlier $5K beamstart.com/deal
Argonaut Many listed offers Various partners argonaut.dev
Antler / SOSV Varies (for funded startups) Join incubator or accelerator antler.co, sosv.com

:brain: Most of these need:

  • Basic traction (website, user activity)
  • A previous round of startup credits used

:globe_showing_asia_australia: Bonus: For Startups in Asia

:round_pushpin: Based in Asia (not China)?
Check out: AWS LIFT Program
:money_mouth_face: Can get up to $83,500
:briefcase: Must have a registered business and AWS usage

:bank: Portfolio-Size Credits ($25K–$100K)

To get this level:

  • Must be connected to a VC firm, incubator, or accelerator
  • Org ID from a valid AWS Activate Partner
  • Credits are added only if bigger than previous

:memo: Example:
Already used $5K ➜ Got approved for $25K ➜ AWS adds $20K

:white_check_mark: Some users also got extra by:

  • Contacting AWS support or account manager directly
  • Explaining a business pivot or growth plan

:no_entry: What Not to Do (Avoid These Mistakes)

Don’t Do This Why
Reapply to AWS Activate Gets rejected if already used
Use old Org ID (like F6S) Many are expired or invalid
Pay shady sellers AWS credits can’t be transferred
Try stacking small credits AWS only applies the biggest one

:tear_off_calendar: How Long Does Approval Take?

Program Time to Get Credits
YC Startup School 4 weeks of updates
Founderpass 7–10 business days
AWS Loft Sometimes instant
Beamstart After 70% of $5K is used
Expensify Usually quick

:clipboard: What You’ll Need

  • Business name and website
  • Work email (not Gmail or Yahoo)
  • EIN (for US options like Mercury, Stripe)
  • Use-case or basic AWS setup

:link: Helpful Links (All in One Place)

:brain: Final Tips

  • Already used credits? Try bigger deals only
  • Free options exist – don’t rush to pay
  • Real approvals happen – just follow the steps
  • Avoid shortcuts, fake sellers, or outdated links

Use what fits best ➜ Stick to known partners ➜ Apply once per tier ➜ Use credits wisely

6 Likes
2

AWS Phone Number Verification Error Fix (Simple Steps):

  1. Use a different country code (like +1 USA) with a virtual number (try TextNow or PingMe).
  2. Clear browser cache or switch to Incognito mode.
  3. Try from a desktop browser (Chrome or Firefox).
  4. Use a credit/debit card that matches your region.
  5. If blocked again, contact AWS Support and request manual verification.

:white_check_mark: Most users solve this by using a clean browser + valid card + working SMS number (preferably US-based).