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Application FAQ

Application Requirements

Why do I need a LinkedIn account to apply?

We require all Microsoft for Startups applicants to have a LinkedIn account. If accepted, we use your LinkedIn profile to help you grow and activate your network. Create a LinkedIn account

How do I apply if I can't access my LinkedIn account?

Contact LinkedIn support.

Can I apply if my startup is self-funded?

Yes, apply so we can get to know more about you and your business idea.

Can I apply if my startup isn't incorporated yet?

Yes, apply so we can get to know more about you and your business idea.

Can I modify my application after it's submitted?

If you're still waiting to hear back from us, follow the instructions on your application confirmation email to delete your application and reapply.

Which development stage should I choose?

During the application process, you'll be 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 have already 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 Decision

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.

Why was my startup accepted but allocated fewer than $150,000 in Azure credits?

Every startup accepted into Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub is granted an initial Azure credit offer of $1,000, $5,000 or $25,000 USD. The credit offer amount is determined by your application details, but the final decision is at the discretion of the Microsoft for Startups program.

Here's the basic criteria for initial Azure credit offers:

$1,000 USD of Azure credits

  • Your LinkedIn profile is updated and verified.
  • You clearly describe your startup's software solution.

$5,000 USD of Azure credits

  • Your startup meets all of the above criteria.
  • Your startup's incorporation or legal entity status is verified.

$25,000 USD of Azure credits

  • Your startup meets all of the above criteria.
  • Your startup's domain is verified.
  • Your business contact email matches your website domain.
  • You provided a product demo video.

As you grow, you may be eligible for more Azure credits. The Get More Benefits page provides detail on how to unlock more credits, including eligibility requirements for $150,000 USD in Azure credits.

How can I find out why our application was declined?

Your decline email contains the decline reason. If this information changes, you can reapply after 14 days.

Reapplication

My application was declined. When can I reapply?

You can reapply 14 days after your application was declined.

I did not activate my Azure credits within 90 days, can I reapply?

You must activate Azure credits within 90 days of accepting the program agreement. If you do not, you are removed from the program and welcome to reapply when you are ready to build. To reapply, contact support at aka.ms/startuphelpemail.

Microsoft for Startups Pegasus Program

What is the Microsoft for Startups Pegasus Program?

The Pegasus Program is an invite only program under the Microsoft for Startups offerings that aims to help B2B startups with opportunity generation and acceleration.

What's the difference between Founders Hub and the Pegasus Program?

Founders Hub is a dynamic platform that supports startups at all stages of their growth. Pegasus is a high-touch program for select Founders Hub users that provides additional benefits to its members. A startup can't be in Pegasus without first joining Founders Hub and using the benefits offered through the platform.

How can startups apply to the Microsoft for Startups Pegasus Program?

The Pegasus Program is invite-only. Startups are selected based specific solution areas, maturity, team profile, traction, and other factors. The Pegasus team continuously monitors the startups in Founders Hub and will directly reach out to any startup deemed eligible. To be eligible for consideration, startups must be members of Founders Hub and building on Microsoft technology.