GitLab for Startups

Free GitLab Ultimate seats for a year for externally funded early-stage startups.

GitLabUpdated weekly · may be out of date · checked 3 wk ago

GitLab for Startups is a developer tools perk from GitLab, free for 20 innovators, for VC- or accelerator-backed startups that have raised under $20M.

Value: Free for 20 innovators
Who qualifies: VC / accelerator-backed
Benefit type: Discount
Terms: Verified

Apply at GitLab

What you get

Inside GitLab for Startups

20 seats of GitLab Ultimate free for 12 months (seed stage);
Series A/B get 50% off any tier for up to 20 users.
Year 2: 50% off (seed) or 25% off (Series A/B).

Source: The provider's official program page · as of Sep 6, 2026

Eligibility

Who it's for

Pre-seed Seed Series A Series B+VC / accelerator-backed

Funding / backing: VC / accelerator-backed
Startup stage: Pre-seed, Seed, Series A, Series B+
Funding-raised cap: Under $20M raised
Geography: Global
Recurring / expiry: 12-month free term, then discounted Year 2.
Other requirements: Externally funded only (bootstrapped not eligible). Pre-seed/seed up to $5M raised; Series A/B up to $20M.

How to claim

How to apply for GitLab for Startups

What to have ready

Confirmation of your accelerator / investor backing (a referral or partner code)
Proof you have raised under $20M

Steps to apply

1Apply through the GitLab for Startups page.

Good to know: Benefit form varies by stage: seed = free Ultimate, Series A/B = 50% off.

Apply at GitLab

Source: The provider's official program page · as of Sep 6, 2026

Value is the headline maximum GitLab advertises. What your company actually receives depends on your eligibility and how you use the program, and terms can change. Independent comparison, not affiliated with the programs listed. Confirm current terms on the provider's page.

If you don't qualify

Compare other developer tools programs

GitLab for Startups has eligibility restrictions. These alternatives have no accelerator or investor requirement. Check each provider’s current terms and availability.

Kong for Startups

Kong

$100K

Confidence Early-Stage Startup Program

Confidence by Spotify

chipIgnite MPW Shuttle

ChipFoundry

Up to $15K

Questions

GitLab for Startups: common questions

What do you get with GitLab for Startups?

GitLab for Startups is free for 20 innovators. 20 seats of GitLab Ultimate free for 12 months (seed stage); Series A/B get 50% off any tier for up to 20 users. Year 2: 50% off (seed) or 25% off (Series A/B).

Who qualifies for GitLab for Startups?

GitLab for Startups is for VC- or accelerator-backed pre-seed, seed, Series A and Series B+ startups that have raised under $20M. Externally funded only (bootstrapped not eligible). Pre-seed/seed up to $5M raised; Series A/B up to $20M.

Do I need to be VC-backed or in an accelerator to get GitLab for Startups?

Yes. GitLab for Startups requires venture or accelerator backing; the higher tiers are unlocked through your investor or accelerator. Externally funded only (bootstrapped not eligible). Pre-seed/seed up to $5M raised; Series A/B up to $20M.

How do I apply for GitLab for Startups?

Apply through the GitLab for Startups page.

How long do I have to use GitLab for Startups, and does it expire?

12-month free term, then discounted Year 2.

Is GitLab for Startups available outside the US?

GitLab for Startups is available globally, subject to the provider's terms.