AWS Activate

AWS Activate is Amazon's flagship startup credit program, offering up to $100,000 in AWS credits for qualifying startups.

Why it matters: When you're training models, running vector databases, or serving inference at scale, cloud bills compound fast. $100K in credits can cover 12-18 months of serious AI workloads -- enough runway to validate your architecture before your first paying customer.

The real story: AWS Activate is a strategic subsidy. Amazon wants your workload on AWS before you're too big to move. Most teams who claim these credits end up staying on AWS long-term. That's the bet Amazon is making, and it works in your favor if you plan ahead.

Key requirement: You must be a member of an AWS-recognized startup ecosystem (incubator, VC, accelerator). Solo developers qualify for the $1,000 Founders tier.