If you're a developer, startup founder, or small business owner looking to take your ideas to the cloud, AWS Lift could be the perfect on-ramp to get started — and the best part? You can begin with $250 in free AWS credits , and earn up to $83,500 more as you grow — all without any lock-in or hidden fees.
What is AWS Lift?
AWS Lift is a special program designed to help startups, small businesses, and individual developers make their first steps into the world of cloud computing. With access to over 200 powerful AWS services, the program empowers users to build, test, and scale applications using tools like EC2, S3, Lambda, RDS , and more — all while receiving tiered promotional credits based on usage.
It’s not just about credits; it's about unlocking real potential through technology.
✅ Highlights:
No upfront cost, no lock-in – use what you need when you need it
Free AWS Account required – easy sign-up process.
Credits expire after 4 months , so there's motivation to explore and build fast.
Ideal for learning, building MVPs, or scaling side projects.
How It Works: Step-by-Step
Create an AWS Account
If you don’t already have one, head over to aws.amazon.com and create a new account.Apply for AWS Lift
Once logged in, apply for the AWS Lift Program through the AWS console or by Clicking.Get Approved
AWS reviews your application (typically quick), and if eligible, you’re in!Start Using AWS Services
Use your initial $250 credit within 4 months to explore services.Grow and Earn More Credits
As you increase your AWS usage across the next 12 months and hit usage milestones, AWS rewards you with additional credits — up to $83,500 total !Keep Building
There's no obligation to continue beyond the program, but once you see how powerful AWS can be, you’ll probably want to!
Why Developers Should Care
Whether you're building your first web app, experimenting with machine learning, or launching a startup MVP, AWS Lift gives you the runway to innovate without worrying about costs. It’s also a great way to:
Learn modern cloud architecture.
Gain hands-on experience with AWS services.
Build scalable, production-ready apps.
Impress future employers or investors with real-world cloud projects.
Tips for Success with AWS Lift
Start small – experiment with free-tier eligible services first.
Use the AWS Console wisely – monitor your usage and avoid unexpected charges.
Follow AWS tutorials and documentation – they’re beginner-friendly and comprehensive.
Automate with Infrastructure as Code (IaC) – tools like AWS SAM, CDK, or Terraform will save time and reduce errors.
What If You Run Into Financial Trouble After Finishing Your Credits?
Let’s be real — sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. If you’ve used up your AWS Lift credits and your project isn’t generating revenue yet, don’t panic.
AWS offers several paths forward:
-Stick with the AWS Free Tier — many services offer perpetual free usage (like 12 months of free EC2, S3 storage, Lambda invocations, etc.)
-Optimize your usage — right-size instances, enable auto-scaling, and delete unused resources.
-Explore open-source tools and serverless options — these can significantly lower operational costs.
-Look into AWS Activate — if you qualify as a startup, you may be eligible for even more credits and support.
You're not alone — AWS understands that startups and solo builders face real challenges. The goal is to help you succeed, not stress about bills.
Ready to Lift Off?
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, build, and scale with AWS — at little to no cost. Whether you're a student, indie hacker, or early-stage startup, AWS Lift is your launchpad to the cloud .
👉 Start today: AWS Lift Application Page
Cloud computing is no longer optional — it's essential. With programs like AWS Lift , the barrier to entry has never been lower. So why wait? Create your AWS account, apply for AWS Lift, and start building something amazing today.
Let me know in the comments below:
💬 What are you planning to build with AWS Lift?
Top comments (0)