Cloud technologies for startups: Tips based on our experience as a startup from India

Last Updated on April 15, 2021 by Rajeev Bagra

Given the promising outlook of cloud computing, start building expertise around cloud computing technologies by choosing one or more of the leading brands: Amazon Web Service (AWS), Google Cloud, Microsoft Azure, Digital Ocean, Alibaba Cloud. All of them have special packages for startups with liberal credits to learn, try new ideas. IBM and particularly Splunk are tilted more towards data science, artificial intelligence, and machine learning exclusively.

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

If AWS, follow the course roadmap prescribed as part of AWS certifications while joining as AWS Partner. As a Registered AWS Partner (free tier), you will learn about cloud technologies while nurturing your skills as a consultant/developer. We are a Registered Consulting Partner.

For India, a great way to avail of free credit from AWS (5000$) and DigitalOcean (1000$) is to signup for the StartupIndia program and gain DPIIT (also called DIPP) recognition.

Point taken that DIPP recognition has its own criterion of being incorporated as a private limited company or registered as a partnership firm or a limited liability partnership. This might not be suitable for newbies or those who prefer to be freelancers in true spirit. Now, Any startup (not just registered with StartupIndia or DIPP recognized) can apply for the AWS Activate Founders program and subject to meeting their conditions be granted 1350$ AWS credit (1,000 USD in AWS credits, valid for two years, and $350 USD in AWS Developer Support credits valid for one year). One can apply for both, (possibility to avail $100,000 in AWS Activate credits).

WP Engine

Simultaneously, consider partnering with technology companies like WPEngine for developing state-of-the-art websites powered by WordPress (WP Engine is an AWS Partner Network (APN) Advanced Technology Partner with the AWS Digital Customer Experience Competency). We are a WPEngine Agency Partner. For agencies and end-users, it perhaps makes more sense to opt for such hosting solutions that take care of most back end technology stuff. Agencies stay focused on creating content as part of generating a great client experience; clients stay focused on their core work which is not maintaining servers like AWS. WP Engine’s technology improves site speed, while providing the intelligence to make it even faster. Tools like Local + WP Engine Connect make WP Engine relevant for hard-core developers too.

Microsoft

Now, coming to Microsoft, it appears that they are not as liberal as AWS when it comes to providing credit to startups. Nevertheless, Microsoft has a unique set of features, and there are ways by which startups can associate with Microsoft for free.

While the best way perhaps should be by registering under Microsoft for Startups, but this has its own criteria which might not be fulfilled by all.

The second way then is to sign up under Microsoft Partner Networks. One can start for free albeit paid subscriptions (Microsoft Action Pack) will help leverage the program to its full.