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Getting This Error When trying to Apply for the Microsoft Azure Credits using Microsoft for Startups.

Rehab Guardian 0 Reputation points
2026-03-31T12:22:45.4933333+00:00

Hi Microsoft Startup Team,

I have signed up for my startup with Microsoft for Startups using the portal (portal.startups.microsoft.com) with Azure. But upon trying to redeem the initial $1000 Azure credits by providing all the personal details and payment verification it asks for, it says "**You're not eligible for Microsoft Azure Sponsorship'' ** Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

Azure | Azure Startups
Azure | Azure Startups

Startups: Companies that are in their initial stages of business and typically developing a business model and seeking financing.

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  1. Himanshu Shekhar 4,980 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-04-01T12:54:29.4833333+00:00

    Rehab Guardian - This is a known and expected behavior when redeeming Microsoft for Startups Azure credits.

    The $1,000 Azure Sponsorship credits are granted only if all eligibility criteria are met, most commonly:

    Why you’re seeing “You’re not eligible for Microsoft Azure Sponsorship”:

    • The Azure credits can only be redeemed using a personal Microsoft Account (MSA) (Outlook/Hotmail/Live). Work or school accounts are not eligible.
    • The account must be a new Azure customer with no prior Azure subscriptions or credits used (including Azure Free $200 credits).
    • If an Azure account/subscription already exists under the same identity, the sponsorship is blocked by design.
    • The startup profile must be fully verified and the offer must be available in your region.
    • Sign in with a new personal Microsoft Account (MSA) that has never been used for Azure.
    • Redeem the credits directly from the Microsoft for Startups portal.
    • Ensure no existing Azure subscriptions are linked to that account. [learn.microsoft.com]

    Official reference:

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