Startup credits / Compare
Google Cloud vs Microsoft for Startups startup credits 2026
Generated from our credits data, which is checked on each vendor page. The vendor page is always the final word.
| Field | Google Cloud | Microsoft for Startups |
|---|---|---|
| Program | Google for Startups Cloud | Microsoft for Startups |
| Status | Open | Open |
| Amount | $2,000 pre-funded (MVP). Up to $200k over 2 yrs (Seed to Series A). AI tier up to $350k (yr 1 covers 100% up to $250k); covers Gemini/Gemma, not third-party models | Starter credits right away (amount not published), up to $150k over time with verified progress and Azure usage |
| Who qualifies | AI tier: Pre-Seed/Seed raised in last 5 yrs or Series A in last 12 months; founded in last 5 yrs; not had over $5k GCP credits; uses or plans to use Gemini as a foundation | Own software product, private, for-profit, HQ where Azure available, under $350k lifetime free Azure credits, not Series C+, not agency/consultancy/school/government/crypto miner |
| Self-funded OK? | Yes, $2k tier | Yes |
| How to apply | cloud.google.com/startup (all), cloud.google.com/startup/ai (AI) | startups.microsoft.com (Get started; Investor Network code optional) |
| Last checked | October 14, 2026 | October 14, 2026 |
Verdict
- No outside funding: both accept self-funded startups (Google Cloud: Yes, $2k tier; Microsoft for Startups: Yes). Different vendors, so apply to each one you qualify for.
- Pick on the stack you already run, then check the larger tiers against your funding stage: Google Cloud: $2,000 pre-funded (MVP). Up to $200k over 2 yrs (Seed to Series A). AI tier up to $350k (yr 1 covers 100% up to $250k); covers Gemini/Gemma, not third-party models. Microsoft for Startups: Starter credits right away (amount not published), up to $150k over time with verified progress and Azure usage.
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Which gives more startup credits, Google Cloud or Microsoft for Startups?
Google Cloud: $2,000 pre-funded (MVP). Up to $200k over 2 yrs (Seed to Series A). AI tier up to $350k (yr 1 covers 100% up to $250k); covers Gemini/Gemma, not third-party models. Microsoft for Startups: Starter credits right away (amount not published), up to $150k over time with verified progress and Azure usage. Amounts are published maximums.
Can a self-funded startup get Google Cloud or Microsoft for Startups credits?
Google Cloud: Yes, $2k tier. Microsoft for Startups: Yes.
Who qualifies for Google Cloud and Microsoft for Startups startup credits?
Google Cloud: AI tier: Pre-Seed/Seed raised in last 5 yrs or Series A in last 12 months; founded in last 5 yrs; not had over $5k GCP credits; uses or plans to use Gemini as a foundation. Microsoft for Startups: Own software product, private, for-profit, HQ where Azure available, under $350k lifetime free Azure credits, not Series C+, not agency/consultancy/school/government/crypto miner.
How do I apply?
Google Cloud: https://cloud.google.com/startup. Microsoft for Startups: https://startups.microsoft.com. Both checked on the vendor page (Google Cloud 2026-10-14, Microsoft for Startups 2026-10-14).