Anthropic's Startups program gives early-stage founders Claude API credits, technical support, and go-to-market resources. It's open to any early-stage founder with or without VC backing; startups referred by an Anthropic partner VC or accelerator qualify for larger credit tiers, scaling to $25K+ for top VC-nominated companies.
- Potential value:
- $25k in credits
- Provider:
- Anthropic
- Referral needed:
- No
Why this could be a strong fit
The go-to program for startups building on Claude, accessible without a referral, with meaningful credit upside for venture-backed teams.
What you need to qualify
- A Claude Console account and company email
- For the largest credit tiers: incorporated within the last 48 months, and referred by an Anthropic partner VC or accelerator
- Company website and a short description of what you are building
- For top tiers: institutional equity funding and founded within the last 4 years
- Not a previous recipient of Anthropic startup credits
- Anthropic partner VC/accelerator affiliation to access the largest amounts
Eligibility
- Eligible stages
- Idea, Pre-seed, Seed, Series A+
- Countries
- Global, subject to the provider’s eligibility and approval
How to apply
- 1
Create a Claude Console account
Set up your API/console access.
- 2
Prepare your details
Company email, website, and product description.
- 3
Note any partner backing
Mention your Anthropic partner VC/accelerator for higher tiers.
- 4
Submit the application
Complete the form on the Claude for Startups page.
- 5
Redeem credits
Apply approved credits to your Claude API usage (~12-month validity).