Theincircle.com is an online Job website for Blue Collar segment focusing only on Manufacturing, Constructions and Service Industry catering to lower section of the society (labour/helper)s. Due to Covid we have zeroed on our sales and it's difficult to survive at present.
For the same if anyone can help us get connect with any VC or anyone who can help us in getting AWS Credit (grants)?
We already have won 1000$ AWS Credits under their startup programs.
The credits that you already received are under AWS Activate Founders. Quoting from the AWS website, "If you have previously received AWS Activate Founders benefits, you are ineligible to apply again. You can only receive AWS Activate Founders benefits once."
However, check if you are eligible for their AWS Activate Portfolio Program.
https://aws.amazon.com/activate/portfolio/
This provides $100,000 USD in AWS Credits.
AWS provides a variety of resources and support for startups, including the AWS Activate program, which offers startups access to credits, training, and technical support.
One of the program of AWS Activate is the Startups Credits, which offers startups around the world, including India, credits for AWS services. The goal is to help startups of all sizes and stages build their businesses by providing access to the tools and services they need on the AWS Cloud. These credits can be used for a variety of services, including compute, storage, and databases.
To be eligible for the AWS Activate Startups Credits, your startup must meet certain criteria such as:
Must be less than 5 years old
Have a product or service that is currently in use or in development
Have a live or in development website
Have raised less than $5 million in funding.
Additionally, AWS also provide specific grants and credits to startups that focus on certain areas such as sustainability, AI, machine learning, and more, startups focusing on Blue Collar jobs might be eligible for those as well, but you should review their program to check the requirements of each of them.
To apply for the AWS Activate Startups Credits or other grants and credits, you can visit the AWS Activate website and click on the "Apply now" button. Once your application is reviewed, you will be notified if you have been approved and can begin using the credits.
It's worth noting that AWS Activate program and the available grants are subject to change and availability, so you may check the website periodically for updates on the program.
### Steps to Obtain Additional AWS Credits and Connect with VCs
1. **AWS Activate Program:**
- AWS offers additional credits through their AWS Activate program, designed for startups. Even if you've already received credits, you may be eligible for more under different tiers or special offers.
- **Action:** Apply or re-apply for the AWS Activate Program and explore additional credit options.
2. **Engage with AWS Representatives:**
- Sometimes, directly engaging with an AWS representative can yield better results. Explain your situation and how the credits will help sustain and grow your business.
- **Action:** Reach out to AWS customer support or your existing AWS account manager and request additional credits, highlighting your previous grant and current need.
3. **Leverage Startup Accelerators and Incubators:**
- Many accelerators and incubators have partnerships with AWS and can offer additional credits and resources.
- **Action:** Apply to relevant startup accelerators or incubators in India or globally that focus on technology and social impact.
4. **Network with VCs and Angel Investors:**
- Given your focus on the blue-collar job market, target investors who are interested in social impact, technology, and job creation.
- **Action:** Use platforms like LinkedIn, AngelList, and Clarity.fm to connect with potential investors. Prepare a compelling pitch that highlights your mission and the impact of COVID-19 on your business.
5. **Seek Support from Industry Networks and Associations:**
- Join industry-specific networks and associations that can provide support and possibly connect you with investors and additional resources.
- **Action:** Look for memberships or partnerships with organizations focused on job creation, technology in India, and social impact.
6. **Crowdfunding and Community Support:**
- Crowdfunding can be a viable way to raise funds, especially if you highlight the social impact aspect of your business.
- **Action:** Launch a crowdfunding campaign on platforms like Kickstarter, Indiegogo, or local Indian platforms like Ketto or Milaap.
### Potential Contacts and Resources:
1. **AWS Activate Program:**
- [AWS Activate](https://aws.amazon.com/activate/)
2. **Startup Accelerators:**
- Y Combinator: [Y Combinator](https://www.ycombinator.com/)
- Techstars: [Techstars](https://www.techstars.com/)
- Indian Angel Network: [Indian Angel Network](https://www.indianangelnetwork.com/)
3. **Investor Platforms:**
- AngelList: [AngelList](https://angel.co/)
- LinkedIn: Use LinkedIn to identify and connect with investors who have shown interest in social impact and technology startups.
4. **Industry Associations:**
- National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM): [NASSCOM](https://www.nasscom.in/)
- Confederation of Indian Industry (CII): [CII](https://www.cii.in/)
### Pitch Tips:
- **Highlight Social Impact:** Emphasize how your platform is helping the lower section of society by providing job opportunities.
- **Showcase Market Potential:** Present data on the blue-collar job market in India and your unique position in it.
- **Demonstrate Resilience:** Explain how you’ve adapted your business model during COVID-19 and your plans for recovery and growth.
By following these steps, you can improve your chances of obtaining additional AWS credits and connecting with investors who can provide the financial support needed to sustain and grow your business.
