You’re looking for reliable providers of AWS credits online. Here’s a breakdown of the most legitimate and effective ways to obtain them:
1. AWS Activate Program (Best for Startups):
- Reliability: This is an official AWS program specifically designed for startups. It’s the most direct and reliable way to get significant AWS credits.
- How it Works: AWS partners with various organizations (accelerators, incubators, venture capital firms – “Activate Providers”) and also offers a “Founders” package for self-funded or early-stage startups.
- Benefits: Up to $100,000 in AWS credits (and potentially more for specific technologies), business and technical support, training, and exclusive offers.
- How to Access:
- Through an Activate Provider: If your startup is associated with one, they can provide you with an organizational ID to apply.
- As a Founder: Apply directly through the AWS Startups website.
- Key takeaway: If you have a startup, this is the most reliable and potentially largest source of AWS credits online.
2. AWS Partner Network (APN) – Reseller Programs (For Businesses):
- Reliability: The APN is the official program for companies that partner with AWS. Reseller partners can sometimes obtain discounts or credits as part of their agreements.
- How it Works: By joining an AWS Reseller program through an authorized distributor or directly with AWS (depending on your tier), you might gain access to benefits that can indirectly reduce your AWS costs or provide credits.
- Benefits: Can include discounts on AWS services, which act like credits in reducing your bill. Some resellers might also offer credits as part of their value-added services.
- How to Access: Explore the AWS Partner Network website and look for information on reseller programs. Contact AWS Partner Management or authorized distributors.
- Key takeaway: If your business model involves reselling AWS services, this is a reliable avenue to explore for cost benefits.
3. AWS Marketplace (Indirectly):
- Reliability: AWS Marketplace is a legitimate platform for software and services. While direct credit application to most purchases isn’t standard, keep an eye out for specific promotions.
- How it Works: Occasionally, AWS or sellers on the Marketplace might offer credits tied to the adoption of specific solutions.
- Benefits: Can sometimes find limited-time offers that include credits. More often, you’ll find cost-optimization tools that help you use your existing credits more effectively.
- How to Access: Browse the AWS Marketplace for specific offers or cost management solutions.
- Key takeaway: Not a primary source for obtaining credits, but worth checking for occasional promotions or cost-saving tools.
4. Specific Promotions and Offers from AWS:
- Reliability: Directly from AWS, these are always reliable.
- How it Works: AWS sometimes runs promotional campaigns that include credits for trying new services or for specific events.
- Benefits: Can provide a temporary boost to your credits.
- How to Access: Monitor AWS announcements, your AWS account notifications, and the AWS Free Tier page for any active credit promotions.
- Key takeaway: Keep an eye on official AWS communication channels.
What to be cautious of:
- Third-party “credit providers” that are not official AWS programs or recognized partners are generally unreliable and potentially scams. AWS credits have no cash value and cannot be legitimately resold.
In summary, the most reliable ways to obtain AWS credits online are through the official AWS Activate program (for startups) and exploring the AWS Partner Network (for businesses). Always prioritize official AWS channels and be wary of unofficial sources.