Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program
A 3-year program: up to $120K in Akamai/Linode cloud credits in year one then tiered discounts, with generous eligibility (under 7 years old).
Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program is a cloud and infrastructure perk from Akamai (Linode) worth up to US$120,000 in cloud credits during the first year, for startups under 7 years old.
- Value
- Up to $120K
- Who qualifies
- Any startup
- Benefit type
- Credits
- Terms
- Verified
Inside Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program
$500 in infrastructure credits immediately, up to $120,000 in cloud credits in year one (final amount set after a review interview), then 50% off year two and 25% off year three. Includes 20 free hours of consulting and a dedicated account manager.
Source: The provider's official program page · as of Sep 28, 2026
Who it's for
- Funding / backing
- Any startup
- Startup stage
- Pre-seed, Seed, Series A
- Company age
- Under 7 years old
- Geography
- Global
- Recurring / expiry
- 3-year program: credits year 1, discounts years 2-3.
- Other requirements
- Under 7 years old, working website, corporate email, and at least one of: paid employees beyond founders, active external users, or initial revenue. Prioritizes SaaS, media, gaming.
How to apply for Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program
- A live company website or product URL
- Confirmation you were founded within the last 7 years
- 1Apply on Akamai's Rise start-up program page and complete the review interview.
Source: The provider's official program page · as of Sep 28, 2026
Compare other cloud & infrastructure programs
Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program has eligibility restrictions. These alternatives have no accelerator or investor requirement. Check each provider’s current terms and availability.
Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program: common questions
How much is Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program worth?
Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program is worth up to US$120,000 in cloud credits during the first year.
Who qualifies for Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program?
Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program is for pre-seed, seed and Series A startups under 7 years old. Under 7 years old, working website, corporate email, and at least one of: paid employees beyond founders, active external users, or initial revenue. Prioritizes SaaS, media, gaming.
Do I need to be VC-backed or in an accelerator to get Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program?
No. Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program is open to any startup that meets the stated criteria, no investor or accelerator backing required.
How do I apply for Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program?
Apply on Akamai's Rise start-up program page and complete the review interview.
How long do I have to use Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program, and does it expire?
3-year program: credits year 1, discounts years 2-3.
Is Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program available outside the US?
Akamai Cloud Rise Startup Program is available globally, subject to the provider's terms.
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