CIQ Startup Program
CIQ, the company behind Rocky Linux, gives VC-backed AI and deep tech startups from seed through Series D 6 months free on its AI infrastructure stack (Fuzzball, RLC Pro AI and Rocky Linux from CIQ Hardened), then 80% off for 12 months and 50% off after that.
CIQ Startup Program is a cloud and infrastructure perk from CIQ, offering 6 months free, then 80% off for a year, for VC- or accelerator-backed startups.
- Value
- 80% off
- Who qualifies
- VC / accelerator-backed
- Benefit type
- Free plan
- Terms
- Verified
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Inside CIQ Startup Program
Full access to Fuzzball (workload orchestration), RLC Pro AI and RLC-H (Rocky Linux from CIQ Hardened) with no usage limits or node restrictions, subject to CIQ's terms. 6 months at 100% free, then 12 months at 80% off, then 18 to 24 months at 50% off, before standard pricing. Includes CIQ engineering support for architecture design, performance tuning and deployment guidance.
Source: The provider's official program page (ciq.com/startups)
Who it's for
- Funding / backing
- VC / accelerator-backed
- Startup stage
- Seed, Series A, Series B+
- Geography
- Global
- Recurring / expiry
- 6 months free, 12 months at 80% off, then 18 to 24 months at 50% off; standard pricing after that.
- Other requirements
- VC-backed AI or deep tech startup, seed through Series D. CIQ prioritizes companies running production AI workloads, building performance-intensive applications or preparing to enter regulated markets; bootstrapped companies meeting significant technical milestones are evaluated case by case.
How to apply for CIQ Startup Program
- Confirmation of your accelerator / investor backing (a referral or partner code)
- 1Apply with the Apply now form on CIQ's startup program page.
Source: The provider's official program page (ciq.com/startups)
Compare other cloud & infrastructure programs
CIQ Startup Program has eligibility restrictions. These alternatives have no accelerator or investor requirement. Check each provider’s current terms and availability.
CIQ Startup Program: common questions
What do you get with CIQ Startup Program?
CIQ Startup Program offers 6 months free, then 80% off for a year.
Who qualifies for CIQ Startup Program?
CIQ Startup Program is for VC- or accelerator-backed seed, Series A and Series B+ startups. VC-backed AI or deep tech startup, seed through Series D. CIQ prioritizes companies running production AI workloads, building performance-intensive applications or preparing to enter regulated markets; bootstrapped companies meeting significant technical milestones are evaluated case by case.
Do I need to be VC-backed or in an accelerator to get CIQ Startup Program?
Yes. CIQ Startup Program requires venture or accelerator backing; the higher tiers are unlocked through your investor or accelerator. VC-backed AI or deep tech startup, seed through Series D. CIQ prioritizes companies running production AI workloads, building performance-intensive applications or preparing to enter regulated markets; bootstrapped companies meeting significant technical milestones are evaluated case by case.
How do I apply for CIQ Startup Program?
Apply with the Apply now form on CIQ's startup program page.
How long do I have to use CIQ Startup Program, and does it expire?
6 months free, 12 months at 80% off, then 18 to 24 months at 50% off; standard pricing after that.
Is CIQ Startup Program available outside the US?
CIQ Startup Program is available globally, subject to the provider's terms.
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