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Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Microsoft for Startups investor offer as startup must meet the following criteria:
Startup must be affiliated with an investor who is a part of the Microsoft for Startups Investor Network.
- Please note that we cannot publicly share the list of participating investors. To obtain a referral code, you'll need to contact your investor (accelerator or VC) directly.
Startup is engaged in the development of a software-based product or service that is a core part of their current or intended business. The software must be owned and not licensed from another party.
Startup has received fewer than $350,000 in lifetime free Azure credits.
Startup is headquartered in a country where Azure services are available.
Startup hasn't raised Series C funding.
Startup is privately held.
Startup is a for-profit business.
Startup isn't an educational institution, government organization, personal blog, development shop, consultancy, agency, or involved in bitcoin or crypto mining.
Application process
Once a startup receives their referral code from their investor, they should visit startups.microsoft.com, click "Get started now," and enter the referral code provided to you by your investor to begin the application process.
Choose the appropriate development stage
During the application process, you're asked to choose the stage that best describes your startup's current state.
Concept design - You're at the very beginning of your startup journey. You're refining your idea and validating your solution by talking to potential users and industry experts.
Prototyping - You have already gone through some idea validation and are now beginning to build a wireframe or a prototype to continue user testing.
Building MVP - You know your solution has value and you're developing a minimally viable product (MVP). Your MVP should be more advanced than your prototype and have enough features planned to make it a functioning solution for potential customers.
MVP in market - You launched your MVP. You're focused on shipping features and still working on acquiring paying customers.
Established market - You have a mature product in the market and have a base of paying customers. You're ready to focus on scaling your company.
Application review and evaluation
On average, it takes three business days to review an application. Response times may be delayed if information in the application needs to be verified. You're notified via the email used to apply as soon as a decision is made.
Microsoft for Startups Investor Offer Application FAQs
Why do I need a referral code to apply?
The Microsoft for Startups investor offer is only available to startups affiliated with select universities, accelerators, incubators, angels, or VC firms in the Microsoft for Startups Investor Network. Each eligible organization receives a unique code to share with their portfolio. This referral code is required to verify your affiliation during the application process.
How do I get a referral code? Referral codes are provided directly by your affiliated investor, accelerator, incubator, or university. Please reach out to your organization's main point of contact to request a code.
I'm not working with an investor. Can I still work with Microsoft?
Yes! Startups new to Azure can get started immediately with the Azure startup credit offer that provides:
$1,000 in credits (valid for 90 days)
An additional $4,000 (valid for 180 days) after business verification
If you later receive funding from an affiliated investor, you can apply to the Microsoft for Startups investor offering using their referral code.
Why do I need a LinkedIn account to apply?
We require all Microsoft for Startups investor offer applicants to have a LinkedIn account. If accepted, we use your LinkedIn profile to help you grow.
How do I apply if I can't access my LinkedIn account?
A valid LinkedIn account is required to apply. If you're unable to access your account, we recommend resolving the issue with LinkedIn Support before applying. Once your profile is accessible, you can proceed with the application.
Can I modify my application after it's submitted?
No, submitted applications can't be edited. If you're still awaiting a decision, you can follow the instructions in your confirmation email to delete your application and reapply. If your application is declined, you may reapply after 14 days.
How long does it take for my application to be reviewed?
On average, it takes three business days to review an application. Response times may be delayed if information in the application needs to be verified.
How can I find out why my application was declined?
The reason for your decline is included in the email you received. If your circumstances change, you're welcome to reapply after 14 days.