Microsoft for Startups (formerly Founders Hub)2027 deadline, funding, equity and how to apply

Microsoft for Startups is Microsoft's benefits program for early-stage companies. It was known as Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub until July 2025, when Microsoft retired the Founders Hub name along with its Expert Network and Champion Network. It is a cloud credits and support program, not an accelerator. There is no cohort, no cash investment and no equity.

Since July 2, 2025, the program has two paths. The first is the investor offering, for startups referred by a member of the Microsoft for Startups Investor Network, such as a VC, accelerator, angel, incubator or university. These startups need a referral code. Microsoft says most of them begin with $100,000 in Azure credits, with chances to earn more based on the investor and their engagement, plus dedicated support and co-marketing. The Microsoft startups homepage advertises up to $150,000 in credits.

The second path is the Azure startup credit offer for startups that are new to Azure and have no affiliated investor. It gives $1,000 in credits valid for 90 days, then another $4,000 valid for 180 days after business verification. You need a personal Microsoft account and must be in an eligible country or region.

Startups that already held Founders Hub credits can use them until expiry, then move to pay-as-you-go unless they join through an investor. For companies ready to sell through the Microsoft commercial marketplace, the separate ISV Success program offers $5,000 to $50,000 in Azure credits.

There is no fixed program schedule. You sign up, get verified and receive Azure credits and resources that match your path. On the self-serve Azure startup credit offer, you first get $1,000 valid for 90 days, then $4,000 more valid for 180 days after business verification.

Support is self-service. On the investor path, you apply with a referral code from your affiliated investor. Most startups start with $100,000 in Azure credits and can earn more depending on the investor and engagement.

This path adds dedicated support, co-marketing and discounted first-party and third-party services. Affiliated investors also get priority access to GPU clusters for their portfolios. Microsoft says credits are not rolled over or extended once they expire.