Claude for Startups
Anthropic
A cohort programme for early-stage founders building on Claude. It offers discounts and credits worth up to $45,000 from companies building with Claude, regular Applied AI sessions, and invitations to events. Founders backed by a VC in Anthropic's partner network may also claim up to $100,000 in API credits through that VC.
What you can get
Partner discounts and credits worth up to $45,000. VC-backed founders may get up to $100,000 in additional API credits through their VC.
Do you repay it?
No
Type
Cloud and AI credits
Where
Open to Indian startups
Current status
The page says the current cohort is full and new applications are not being accepted. It gives no date for the next cohort. No country limit is stated.
Who it was for
- Aimed at early-stage founders building on Claude.
- The extra API credits need backing from a VC in Anthropic's partner network and are claimed through that VC.
- Credits apply to the first-party Claude API through Claude Console, not AWS, Google Cloud or Azure.
How it worked
- 1Applications are paused, so subscribe to the Claude Startup newsletter on the programme page.
- 2Apply when the next cohort opens.
- 3If VC-backed, ask your VC whether it can unlock the API credits.
The catch
The $45,000 is described as offers from other companies, not Anthropic API credits. The $100,000 needs a partner VC, which most bootstrapped Indian founders will not have.
We read this on the official page on 4 November 2026. Rules and dates change, so confirm there before you apply. Founders Wing is not connected to this scheme, does not help with applications and never charges for access to it.