Kernel for Startups

Kernel runs cloud browsers for web agents. Its startup program has a Prototype tier ($750 in value) and a Scale tier with $5,000 in credits for startups backed by YC, a16z speedrun or Accel.

KernelUpdated monthly · checked 13 h ago

Kernel for Startups is a developer tools perk from Kernel worth up to $5,000 in credits (Scale), $750 value (Prototype), for VC- or accelerator-backed startups under 2 years old.

Value: Up to $5K
Who qualifies: VC / accelerator-backed
Benefit type: Credits
Terms: Verified

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While you apply

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What you get

Inside Kernel for Startups

Prototype tier: the $200 a month start-up plan is free for 3 months, plus $50 a month in usage credits and priority support, worth $750 by Kernel's count.
Scale tier: $5,000 in credits that cover the $200 a month plan fee and usage for 1 year, plus a shared Slack channel with Kernel for the first month.
Scale is for startups backed by YC, a16z speedrun or Accel; if your fund is not listed, your VC must email Kernel to join.
Usage above $50 a month on Prototype bills at standard start-up rates.

Source: The provider's official program page

Eligibility

Who it's for

New to Kernel Under 2 years old YC / a16z speedrun / Accel for Scale

Funding / backing: VC / accelerator-backed
Startup stage: Seed, Series A
Company age: Under 2 years old
Geography: Global
Recurring / expiry: Prototype: 3 months. Scale: 1 year. Both count from the acceptance email.
Other requirements: Prototype requires being new to Kernel, under 2 years in operation and $1m+ raised. Scale requires backing from YC, a16z speedrun or Accel. A card must be on file. You can apply if you have never paid for a plan.

How to claim

How to apply for Kernel for Startups

What to have ready

Confirmation of your accelerator / investor backing (a referral or partner code)
A company email on your own website domain (not a personal address)
A live company website or product URL
Confirmation you were founded within the last 2 years

Steps to apply

1Choose a tier on the Kernel startups page and submit the application with your website, company email, founding date and a funding link such as press or Pitchbook.

Good to know: A card is required even though nothing is charged while the program covers the plan fee.

Apply at Kernel

Source: The provider's official program page

Value is the headline maximum Kernel 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.

If you don't qualify

Compare other developer tools programs

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

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Questions

Kernel for Startups: common questions

How much is Kernel for Startups worth?

Kernel for Startups is worth up to $5,000 in credits (Scale), $750 value (Prototype). Prototype tier: the $200 a month start-up plan is free for 3 months, plus $50 a month in usage credits and priority support, worth $750 by Kernel's count. Scale tier: $5,000 in credits that cover the $200 a month plan fee and usage for 1 year, plus a shared Slack channel with Kernel for the first month. Scale is for startups backed by YC, a16z speedrun or Accel; if your fund is not listed, your VC must email Kernel to join. Usage above $50 a month on Prototype bills at standard start-up rates.

Who qualifies for Kernel for Startups?

Kernel for Startups is for VC- or accelerator-backed seed and Series A startups under 2 years old. Prototype requires being new to Kernel, under 2 years in operation and $1m+ raised. Scale requires backing from YC, a16z speedrun or Accel. A card must be on file. You can apply if you have never paid for a plan.

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

Yes. Kernel for Startups requires venture or accelerator backing; the higher tiers are unlocked through your investor or accelerator. Prototype requires being new to Kernel, under 2 years in operation and $1m+ raised. Scale requires backing from YC, a16z speedrun or Accel. A card must be on file. You can apply if you have never paid for a plan.

How do I apply for Kernel for Startups?

Choose a tier on the Kernel startups page and submit the application with your website, company email, founding date and a funding link such as press or Pitchbook.

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

Prototype: 3 months. Scale: 1 year. Both count from the acceptance email.

Is Kernel for Startups available outside the US?

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