API credits
OpenAI for Startups
- Startups backed by an eligible OpenAI VC partner; build resources and events open to all
OpenAI Startup Credits: Program Explained
OpenAI offers credits and dedicated support to startups backed by its VC partners, plus open build resources and events.
Last verified October 29, 2026
Quick answer
Available programs
OpenAI offers credits and dedicated support to startups backed by its VC partners, plus open build resources and events.
Don’t miss the next $100K in creditsGet monthly updates on new credits, perks, and funding opportunities. Discover $5M+ in credits.
Best for
Portfolio companies of OpenAI partner VCsStartups building on GPT and o-seriesAustralian AI startups via local partners
Do you qualify for OpenAI?
You likely qualify if
- One of your investors is an OpenAI partner VC and gives you a referral code
- You have an OpenAI platform account and org ID
- You can describe your product and planned API use, with a business email and basic funding details
- Australia: you are an early-stage startup working with a named local partner (Square Peg, Side Stage Ventures, Relevance AI, Stone and Chalk)
You won't qualify if
- You are bootstrapped or have no partner VC (no public application)
- You expect a self-serve credit grant from openai.com
- You are relying on the Ramp or Researcher Access routes (discontinued)
Common rejection reasons
- Investor is not in OpenAI's partner network
- No referral code from the fund's portfolio-perks team
- No verifiable funding or product
How to apply for OpenAI
- Check eligibility: confirm one of your investors is an OpenAI partner
- Ask the fund's portfolio/platform team for an OpenAI referral code
- Submit the referral form with code, org ID, product/API description, business email and funding details (no pitch deck)
- Activate: credits land on your org; per OpenAI service credit terms they expire 1 year after issuance unless stated otherwise
Stacks well with
Founders who claim OpenAI often pair it with these to build a bigger credit stack.
Frequently asked questions
How much does OpenAI give startups?
API credits (amount not published), dedicated technical and go-to-market support. OpenAI offers credits and dedicated support to startups backed by its VC partners, plus open build resources and events.
Does OpenAI take equity?
No. These are non-dilutive credits and perks; you do not give up equity.
Who qualifies for OpenAI?
One of your investors is an OpenAI partner VC and gives you a referral code. You have an OpenAI platform account and org ID. You can describe your product and planned API use, with a business email and basic funding details.
Do I need a referral?
Yes for at least one program, usually from a VC, accelerator or partner.
How do I apply for OpenAI?
1) Check eligibility: confirm one of your investors is an OpenAI partner 2) Ask the fund's portfolio/platform team for an OpenAI referral code 3) Submit the referral form with code, org ID, product/API description, business email and funding details (no pitch deck) 4) Activate: credits land on your org; per OpenAI service credit terms they expire 1 year after issuance unless stated otherwise
Related startup credits
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Don’t miss the next $100K in credits
Get monthly updates on new credits, perks, and funding opportunities. Discover $5M+ in credits.