OpenAI
OpenAI Startup Program
Free OpenAI API credits via VC partners (amount varies)
Manually reviewed by our team
OpenAI routes startup API credits through VC/accelerator partner firms rather than a broad self-serve application; the public page publishes no fixed dollar amount.
At a glance
Eligibility, benefit timing, and terms
Eligibility
- Separate legal entities may apply independently where terms allow
Benefit and tiers
- VC partner referralFree API credits, rate-limit upgrades, solutions-engineer time via partner VC (Thrive, Sequoia, a16z, KP, Conviction); no fixed dollar amount published
When you get it
Partner-backed applications are reviewed through the referring VC or startup partner before credits or rate-limit upgrades are assigned.
Duration and limits
12 months
Confirm the credit expiration and eligible API products with the referring partner.
- • One credit grant per OpenAI organization
- • A VC or startup-partner referral is required for the listed path
Last terms check: 2026-08-10
Official termsOpenAI routes startup founders through their VC or startup partner for API credits; the public page does not publish a fixed dollar amount.
Program tiers
| Tier | Value | Access | When / duration | Notes and limits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VC partner referral | Free API credits, rate-limit upgrades, solutions-engineer time via partner VC (Thrive, Sequoia, a16z, KP, Conviction); no fixed dollar amount published | referral only | Timing not published | Free API credits, rate-limit upgrades, solutions-engineer time via partner VC (Thrive, Sequoia, a16z, KP, Conviction); no fixed dollar amount published |
Eligibility
- Separate legal entities may apply independently where terms allow
How to apply
- 1Ask the referring VC or startup partner to confirm the OpenAI startup path.
- 2Link the eligible OpenAI organization and complete the partner-backed review.
- 3Confirm the API products, credit amount, rate-limit changes, and expiration in the approval communication.
Important notes
- The current OpenAI for Startups page says founders should contact their VC to unlock API credits. No fixed public dollar amount is listed; partner-backed startups may also receive rate-limit upgrades, events, and solutions-engineering access.