you’re looking for ways to obtain AWS credits online to help pay your AWS bill. Here’s a breakdown of the best approaches:
1. AWS Activate Program:
- For Startups: If you have a startup, the AWS Activate program offers significant AWS credits (up to $100,000 or even $300,000 for those building on AWS Trainium and Inferentia) and support to help you build and scale.
- Eligibility: Criteria vary based on whether your startup is associated with an “Activate Provider” (accelerators, VCs, etc.) or if you’re applying as a founder independently. Generally, you need to be a self-funded or pre-Series B startup founded within the last 10 years with a functioning website.
- How to Apply: You can apply through the AWS Startups website.
2. AWS Partner Network (APN):
- For Businesses: Depending on your business model (e.g., reseller, solution provider), joining the APN can provide access to various benefits, potentially including AWS credits or discounts.
- Reseller Programs: Some AWS partners offer programs where you can get discounts on your AWS and CloudFront services by joining their resell program. Some even provide free AWS credits as part of their offerings. Look for “AWS Reseller” programs.
- AWS Solution Provider Program: This program helps partners resell and deliver AWS services. While not directly providing credits to end customers, it can lead to cost-optimized solutions.
3. AWS Marketplace:
- While you can’t directly use AWS credits to pay for most AWS Marketplace offerings, some solutions available on the Marketplace can help you optimize your AWS spending, indirectly extending the life of your credits.
- Keep an eye out for specific credit offers tied to certain products or services on the AWS Marketplace, though these are less common.
4. Other Potential Sources:
- VCs and Investors: Many venture capital firms and institutional investors have partnerships with AWS and may provide credits to their portfolio companies.
- Specific Promotions: AWS occasionally runs promotions that include credits. Keep an eye on AWS announcements and your account notifications.
- Community Offers: Some online communities or platforms focused on startups or developers might occasionally offer AWS credits as part of promotions or partnerships.
Key Takeaways:
- AWS Activate for Startups: This is often the best direct route for startups to obtain significant credits.
- AWS Partners for Businesses: Explore the AWS Partner Network and reseller programs for potential discounts and credits.
- No Central “Credit Marketplace”: There isn’t an official online marketplace to buy or sell AWS credits. Be wary of any third-party services claiming to offer this, as it likely violates AWS terms.
- Focus on Official Channels: The most reliable way to obtain AWS credits is through official AWS programs and recognized partners.
To find the best option for you, I recommend exploring the AWS Startups website for the AWS Activate program and the AWS Partner Network website to see if any programs align with your business. You can also search for “AWS Reseller Program” to find partners who might offer credits.