Amazon Kiro: Free AI Coding Tool for Startups

Amazon's Strategy to Attract Startups with Free AI Coding Access

The competitive landscape for AI coding tools is becoming increasingly crowded. Numerous platforms, including Cursor, Claude Code, Codex, Gemini Code Assist, and GitHub Copilot, are vying for the attention of startup founders.

Amazon is now attempting to gain traction with its own offering, Kiro Pro+, by employing a common strategy: providing free access.

Free Kiro Pro+ Credits for Qualifying Startups

During his keynote at the re:Invent 2025 conference, AWS CEO Matt Garman revealed that Amazon will offer a year of free credits for Kiro Pro+ to eligible early-stage startups.

Startups meeting the criteria can apply for credits supporting up to 100 users.

Eligibility Requirements and Restrictions

Access to this offer isn't universal. Several restrictions apply to determine eligibility.

• Startups must have already received VC funding, ranging from pre-seed through Series B.
• Currently, only startups based in the U.S. are eligible.
• Geographic limitations exist, excluding countries like France, Germany, Italy, and much of South America.
• Trade-sanctioned countries are also ineligible for participation.

Furthermore, all applications for these free credits must be submitted before the deadline of December 31st.