While there isn’t a direct online marketplace to simply “buy” discounted AWS billing credits, here are the legitimate ways to potentially reduce your AWS costs and effectively get credits or discounts online:
1. AWS Activate Program (For Startups):
- How to get it online: Apply through the AWS Startups website. If your startup is associated with a Venture Capital firm, accelerator, or incubator that is an AWS Activate Partner, you’ll need their organizational ID to apply.
- Discount/Credit: Offers significant AWS credits (up to $100,000 or even $300,000 for specific workloads), along with business and technical support.
2. AWS Partner Network (APN) – Reseller Programs (For Businesses):
- How to get it online: Explore the AWS Partner Network website and look for information on reseller programs. Contact AWS Partner Management or authorized distributors.
- Discount/Credit: By becoming an AWS Reseller, you might gain access to discounts on AWS services, which effectively reduce your bill. Some resellers might also offer promotional credits.
3. AWS Marketplace:
- How to get it online: Browse the AWS Marketplace for cost optimization tools and occasionally look for specific promotions that might include credits with certain software purchases.
- Discount/Credit: While not a direct source of billing credits, cost optimization tools can help you reduce your overall spending, making your existing credits last longer. Keep an eye out for specific promotional offers that might include credits.
4. AWS Savings Plans and Reserved Instances:
- How to get it online: Purchase Savings Plans or Reserved Instances through the AWS Management Console. Analyze your usage patterns using AWS Cost Explorer to identify potential savings.
- Discount/Credit: These are commitment-based discount programs that can significantly reduce your compute, database, and other service costs (up to 72-75% off On-Demand prices). While not credits, they directly lower your bill.
5. AWS Promotional Credits:
- How to get it online: These are typically offered through specific AWS programs, events, or partnerships. Keep an eye on AWS announcements and your account notifications. The AWS Sustainability Data Initiative (ASDI) also offers credits for sustainability-related projects.
- Discount/Credit: Provides credits to offset the cost of eligible AWS services.
Key Takeaway:
The most reliable ways to get “discounted” AWS billing online are through official AWS programs like AWS Activate (for startups) and by leveraging AWS Savings Plans and Reserved Instances for committed usage. For businesses, exploring the AWS Partner Network reseller options can also lead to discounts. Always be cautious of unofficial sources offering to sell AWS credits, as these are often unreliable.