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
Start Here: Everyone Gets $1K Free
Apply on the official page: aws.amazon.com/activate
This gives a basic $1,000 AWS credit
No partner or funding needed
Instant approval if all info is correct
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  Mixed results, some rejected |
AWS only accepts the highest approved credit.
Already used $1K? A new $5K offer gives only $4K more.
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 |
Most of these need:
- Basic traction (website, user activity)
- A previous round of startup credits used
Bonus: For Startups in Asia
Based in Asia (not China)?
Check out: AWS LIFT Program
Can get up to $83,500
Must have a registered business and AWS usage
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
Example:
Already used $5K ➜ Got approved for $25K ➜ AWS adds $20K
Some users also got extra by:
- Contacting AWS support or account manager directly
- Explaining a business pivot or growth plan
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 |
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 |
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
Helpful Links (All in One Place)
- AWS Activate
- Stripe Atlas
- Mercury Perks
- YC Startup School
- Founderpass AWS
- Beamstart $10K Deal
- AWS LIFT Asia
- Antler
- SOSV
- Expensify AWS
- Argonaut Credit Guide
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
!