Developer ToolsFree plan

Distribution (CNCF Docker registry)

Distribution is the open source Registry that stores and distributes container images. It is open-source under the permissive Apache license.

CNCFUpdated monthly · checked 27 h ago

Distribution (CNCF Docker registry) is a developer tools perk from CNCF, offering free open source (Apache license), with no funding required.

Value
Free
Who qualifies
No funding needed
Benefit type
Free plan
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While you apply

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What you get

Inside Distribution (CNCF Docker registry)

The Registry is a stateless server application that stores and lets you distribute container images and other content. It is open-source, under the permissive Apache license. Teams use it to control where their images are stored and to own their image distribution pipeline.

Source: The provider's official program page

Eligibility

Who it's for

Open sourceAny startup
Funding / backing
No funding needed
Geography
Global
Recurring / expiry
Free open source with no time limit.
Other requirements
Self-hosted: the team runs the Registry on its own infrastructure.
How to claim

How to apply for Distribution (CNCF Docker registry)

Steps to apply
  1. 1Deploy the open source Registry on your own infrastructure.
  2. 2No application is needed.
Good to know: Project description read on distribution.github.io on October 28, 2026.
Apply at CNCF

Source: The provider's official program page

Value is the headline maximum CNCF advertises. What your company actually receives depends on your eligibility and how you use the program, and terms can change. A comparison, not endorsed by the programs listed. A link labeled as a referral link may earn us a commission, and a program labeled Same owner comes from the company that runs StartupPerks. Confirm current terms on the provider's page.
Questions

Distribution (CNCF Docker registry): common questions

What do you get with Distribution (CNCF Docker registry)?

Distribution (CNCF Docker registry) offers free open source (Apache license).

Who qualifies for Distribution (CNCF Docker registry)?

Distribution (CNCF Docker registry) is open to any startup, with no funding required. Self-hosted: the team runs the Registry on its own infrastructure.

Do I need to be VC-backed or in an accelerator to get Distribution (CNCF Docker registry)?

No. Distribution (CNCF Docker registry) is open to any startup that meets the stated criteria, no investor or accelerator backing required.

How do I apply for Distribution (CNCF Docker registry)?

Deploy the open source Registry on your own infrastructure. No application is needed.

How long do I have to use Distribution (CNCF Docker registry), and does it expire?

Free open source with no time limit.

Is Distribution (CNCF Docker registry) available outside the US?

Distribution (CNCF Docker registry) is available globally, subject to the provider's terms.

Free container registries, comparedCNCF Distribution's free plan next to every other free container registryWhat each container registry gives you free today, its main limit and what the first paid plan costs, read from each provider's own page.
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