What is AWS Build funding?
Summary
AWS Build funding covers the production build phase for net-new workloads on AWS. Where POC funding validates an idea, Build funding supports turning that validated idea into a production-ready application. It can include both AWS service credits and funding for partner implementation labor. Build funding is accessed through a qualified AWS partner and requires a defined project scope with a clear path to sustained AWS spend. It does not apply to projects already running on AWS, migrations from other clouds, or work that began before a funding request was submitted and approved.
Most companies that find out about POC funding do not realize there is a follow-on program. Build funding picks up where a successful POC leaves off.
The two programs address consecutive phases of the same project. POC answers the question: Can we build this? Build funding supports the work of actually building it at production scale.
What Build funding covers
Build funding can include AWS service credits that offset your infrastructure costs during the build phase, and funding that offsets the partner’s engineering labor of building the production workload.
The balance between credits and partner funding, and the total amount available, depends on the project scope and what AWS approves on the funding request. Build funding is not a fixed grant. It is determined through a scoping and approval process with your AWS partner.
How Build funding differs from POC funding
POC funding is for validation. The output is proof that a technical approach works. Build funding is for execution. The output is a production-ready application or workload running on AWS.
In practice, a project may move through both. A POC funded by AWS validates the architecture. A Build engagement funded by AWS constructs the production system. The two funding requests are separate and tied to different scopes of work, but the end result is a validated and scalable solution for the client.
POC funding cannot be combined with Build funding for the same deliverable. AWS distinguishes between the two phases. If a POC scope is approved and funded, the production build is a separate engagement with its own funding request.
What qualifies for Build funding
Build funding applies to net-new workloads being built on AWS for the first time. The project must have a defined scope, a clear technical plan, and a credible path to meaningful ongoing AWS spend after launch. This is why a POC often precedes a build project.
Projects migrating existing workloads from on-premises or another cloud do not qualify for Build funding. That scenario is covered by the Migration Acceleration Program (MAP). If your project involves both building something new and migrating something existing, the two components may qualify for separate programs.
Projects that are already in progress at the time of application do not qualify. Funding must be requested and approved before the work begins.
Accessing AWS Build funding
Build funding is accessed exclusively through a qualified AWS partner. The partner collaborates with you to scope the project, submit the funding request, and manage the approved engagement. AWS customers cannot directly apply for Build funding.
Tech 42 is an AWS Advanced Tier Services Partner with access to Build funding for qualifying projects. If you have completed a POC and are ready to move into production, a short scoping conversation will tell you whether your project qualifies and what the funding structure looks like. And if you haven’t completed a POC yet, learn more here.
