- Microsoft disconnects its startups program in favor of a new scheme
- From July 2025, startups will have to join a two -track system
- For the most credits, startups will need a reference
Microsoft has disconnected a popular program designed to support startups by offering them up to $ 150,000 in Azure credits, according to a new note published on June 27, 2025, but it has not disappeared forever.
Instead, the company makes changes to the program – Microsoft will continue to take care of startups, but this time via a two -track system that obtains its support from investors as well as the company itself.
Microsoft pointed out that existing activated credits remain valid until they expire, but the new candidates will be guided in the two -track system, which came Info Effect on July 1.
The Microsoft for Startups program undergoes a big change
The new program will first include a track supported by investors – undoubtedly the most precious of startups.
It consists of $ 100,000 + in Azure credits, but requires a reference of an affiliated investor, such as accelerators, venture capital and universities. Eligible startups can also unlock additional advantages depending on the program’s commitment and their investor.
Dedicated support channels, co-marketing initiatives and tailor-made resources are also available.
Second, the self-service track, which is open to startups without investor support which is new to Azure. Up to $ 5,000 in Azure credits are available, including $ 1,000 available for 90 days after registering and an additional $ 4,000 which remain available for 180 days after verification of companies.
However, there is no dedicated support on this track – it is only self -service.
The sudden change could disrupt many startups which may have already budgeted depending on the credit availability of previous $ 150,000, most startups are probably refocusing their strategies taking into account the short period.
We do not know how the changes could also affect the Microsoft model, with Google offering up to $ 200,000 in credits (or $ 350,000 for eligible IA startups) and AWS offering up to $ 100,000 and an additional $ 30,000 for startups using AWS Trainium or Inferentia.
