Promotional credits across Grok,
Grok for Startups
- Venture-backed startups with a live product and a company-domain email; partner VCs/accelerators can add a guaranteed minimum
xAI Startup Credits: Program Explained
Venture-backed startups with a live product can apply for xAI credits covering Grok and the Grok API.
Last verified October 29, 2026
Quick answer
Available programs
Venture-backed startups with a live product can apply for xAI credits covering Grok and the Grok API.
Don’t miss the next $100K in creditsGet monthly updates on new credits, perks, and funding opportunities. Discover $5M+ in credits.
Best for
Venture-backed teams building on GrokStartups with a live productPortfolio companies of SpaceXSI partners
Do you qualify for xAI?
You likely qualify if
- Venture-backed with a live product
- Work email matching your company website domain
- Team ID from console.x.ai and a LinkedIn profile
- No prior Grok for Startups grant in your company group (disclose any earlier xAI credits)
You won't qualify if
- Not yet funded (reapply after raising)
- Personal email address only
- Staff/family of SpaceXSI, Anysphere, SpaceX, Tesla or X Corp., or sanctioned parties
Common rejection reasons
- No venture funding
- Personal email
- Details not verified within 10 days of a document request
How to apply for xAI
- Check eligibility: venture backing, live product, matching-domain email
- Create a team at console.x.ai and copy the Team ID
- Apply at x.ai/startups/apply (~5 minutes); SpaceXSI may contact your investors
- Activate: 20% on approval, remaining 80% after onboarding; use within 6 months
Stacks well with
Founders who claim xAI often pair it with these to build a bigger credit stack.
Frequently asked questions
How much does xAI give startups?
Promotional credits across Grok, Grok Build, Grok Bot and Grok API (no fixed amount; expire after ~6 months). Venture-backed startups with a live product can apply for xAI credits covering Grok and the Grok API.
Does xAI take equity?
No. These are non-dilutive credits and perks; you do not give up equity.
Who qualifies for xAI?
Venture-backed with a live product. Work email matching your company website domain. Team ID from console.x.ai and a LinkedIn profile.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed for the main program.
How do I apply for xAI?
1) Check eligibility: venture backing, live product, matching-domain email 2) Create a team at console.x.ai and copy the Team ID 3) Apply at x.ai/startups/apply (~5 minutes); SpaceXSI may contact your investors 4) Activate: 20% on approval, remaining 80% after onboarding; use within 6 months
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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.