Unable to find/get into Microsoft for Startups application process

Arnur Sakenov 0 Reputation points
2026-07-12T08:31:16.36+00:00

Hello,

I'm the CTO of Ventorme, an early-stage startup, and I'm trying to apply for the Microsoft for Startups program. Based on the eligibility criteria published on the program page, we appear to qualify but I'm unable to figure out the correct application flow.

Specifically:

  • Azure dont give us button to apply for Microsoft for startups, we got just 200$ free credit , but we cant use it for gpt 5.6 models etc.
  • I'd appreciate clarification on the exact steps, required documents, and expected response time.

Could you please point me to the correct application process, or confirm whether a direct sign-up link is currently available?

Company: Ventorme

Role: CTO

Thank you for your help.

Microsoft Partner Center | Other

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  1. AI answer

    2026-07-12T08:31:38.4666667+00:00

    To apply for Microsoft for Startups and access Startup credits (which can be used for Azure AI models), the application is done through the Microsoft for Startups website, not from within an existing Azure subscription or the standard $200 free trial.

    Correct application flow

    1. Go to the Microsoft for Startups site: https://startups.microsoft.com.
    2. Select Get started.
    3. When prompted to sign in, use a personal Microsoft account (consumer email), not a work/school/company-domain account. Work accounts like ******@company.com are not accepted for sign-up.
    4. Complete and submit the application form. You will be asked for:
      • Personal Microsoft account
      • Phone number and time zone
      • Registered startup name (matching legal documents)
      • Primary industry
      • Website (if available)
      • Address information
      • Payment information for Azure account setup
      • Optional: 10-character investor referral code if Ventorme is backed by an investor in the Microsoft for Startups Investor Network

    Once submitted, the application is reviewed; decisions are sent by email.

    Required documents / information

    Before starting, have:

    • Legal startup name and address
    • Industry and basic company profile
    • Personal Microsoft account with no prior Azure account (for the standard startup credit offer)
    • Payment information to create the Azure subscription
    • Optional investor referral code (if applicable)

    Credits and using AI models

    When joining Microsoft for Startups:

    • Up to $1,000 in Startup credits are available immediately to start building on Azure.
    • Over time, startups can unlock up to $150,000 in Startup credits based on verified progress, service adoption, and sustained Azure usage.
    • These Startup credits can be used on eligible Azure services, including Azure AI capabilities.

    Note that the standard $200 Azure free trial is separate from Microsoft for Startups and has more limited usage; joining Microsoft for Startups is the path to Startup credits that can be applied more broadly.

    Response time and what happens next

    • Applications are typically reviewed within three business days.
    • After submission, access is provided to the Microsoft for Startups portal / Azure Portal experience to:
      • Activate and manage Startup credits
      • Track Azure usage
      • Manage team and account
      • Access program benefits and resources
      • Submit support requests

    If issues persist

    If the application flow still cannot be found or there are problems during sign-up or verification:

    • Use the program-specific support resource: https://aka.ms/startuphelp-mfs-portal.
    • Once an Azure account is set up, Azure technical issues can be raised via a support request in the Azure Portal.

    References:

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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