.png)
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Microsoft for Startups, companies must meet Microsoft’s programme requirements. In summary, eligible startups must:
- Be developing a software based product or service that forms a core part of the business
- Own the software they are building, rather than licensing it from another company
- Have received less than $350,000 in total lifetime free Azure credits
- Be headquartered in a country where Azure services are available
- Not have raised Series C funding or beyond
- Be privately held
- Operate as a for profit business
- Have an investor code from your investor (FounderPass do not supply this), if you do not have one you can still apply for the lower amount ($5k)
The following types of organisations are not eligible:
- Educational institutions
- Government bodies
- Personal blogs or hobby projects
- Development shops, agencies, or consultancies building software for clients
- Businesses involved in bitcoin or crypto mining
All applications remain subject to Microsoft’s review and approval.
How to Redeem
- Visit the Microsoft for Startups application page.
- Select the appropriate pathway:
- Investor Network pathway if you have an eligible investor
- Standard Azure startup free trial if you do not
- Submit your company details and required documentation.
- If approved, Azure credits will be applied to your account in line with Microsoft’s programme terms.
If you are applying via the Investor Network tier, you may need to enter an invite code provided by your investor (not something FounderPass offers)
What Is Microsoft for Startups?
Microsoft for Startups is a global programme designed to support early stage technology companies. It provides Azure cloud credits, technical resources, go to market support, and access to Microsoft’s ecosystem.
For infrastructure heavy startups building SaaS, AI, data platforms, or enterprise software, Azure credits can meaningfully reduce burn rate while validating product market fit.
Who This Is Best For
- SaaS startups building on Azure
- AI and data infrastructure companies
- Deep tech or enterprise focused startups
- VC backed companies looking to extend runway
For bootstrapped founders or very early stage teams, the $5,000 free trial can still provide meaningful early cost relief.
Other options to consider
Microsoft For Startups FAQ
How do I get a referral code?
Referral codes are only issued to investors who are part of the Microsoft for Startups Investor Network. If your startup is backed by one of these investors, contact them directly and request the code. They receive codes from their Microsoft point of contact and distribute them to portfolio companies.
If you do not have an eligible investor, you can still apply for the standard Azure startup free trial offer.
Do FounderPass have a referral code/invite code?
As we are not investors in your company, we do not offer an invite or referral code for the larger amounts.
How do I use a referral code?
When applying on the Microsoft for Startups website, you will be prompted to enter your referral code during the application process.
This links your application to your investor and determines your eligibility for the higher Azure credit allocation.
Referral codes are typically time bound, so apply before the expiration date provided by your investor.
What happens if my referral code does not work?
If you experience issues with your code:
- Confirm it has not expired
- Check that it has been entered correctly
- Contact your investor for a replacement code
If needed, your investor can escalate the issue to their Microsoft for Startups contact.
What benefits do startups receive through Microsoft for Startups?
Depending on eligibility, startups may receive:
- Azure credits, potentially up to $150,000 for Investor Network backed companies
- Access to on demand GPU virtual machines
- Azure technical support and access to Microsoft experts
- Go to market support
- Discounts or access to tools such as GitHub Enterprise, LinkedIn Premium, Microsoft 365 Business Premium, Visual Studio Enterprise, Microsoft Dynamics, Microsoft Power Platform, and Microsoft Clarity
Benefits and credit levels depend on approval and prior usage.
Do previously used Azure credits count toward my limit?
Yes. Microsoft applies a lifetime cap on free Azure credits.
For example, if your maximum offer is $150,000 and you have already used $50,000 in credits, you may be eligible for the remaining $100,000. If you have already used the full allocation, you will not receive additional credits under the programme.
Can startups increase their Azure credit allocation?
Investor backed startups may be able to unlock their maximum credit tier by demonstrating active usage of key Azure services.
Microsoft typically requires at least $100 of spend in a single month across selected services such as:
- Azure Monitor
- Log Analytics
- Application Insights
- Microsoft Defender for Cloud
- Microsoft Sentinel
- Microsoft Purview
Microsoft reviews usage and may adjust credit allocations after validation. Updates can take up to 30 days to reflect in the Azure portal.
Deal change log
- 12th Feb 2026 - Redemption process updated
- 8th Jan 2026 - Deal added