Can my startup join if it isn’t using NVIDIA GPUs or SDKs yet?

Yes. Inception can help you understand which NVIDIA solutions fit your workload. Members receive codes for free self-paced courses and special pricing for instructor-led workshops.

Why do I need to include a pitch deck in my application?

The pitch deck helps NVIDIA understand your company’s mission, solutions and market value. This information is used to provide personalized recommendations, workload-specific resources and go-to-market opportunities.

What GPU discounts are available to members?

Members get preferred pricing on select enterprise-grade GPUs. This functions as a rebate deducted from the standard supplier price. NVIDIA does not sell directly to members or control supplier pricing.

Is preferred pricing available for all NVIDIA hardware and software?

Preferred pricing is only available for select hardware and software products and is subject to change.

Do members receive special access to GPUs not currently on the market?

No. NVIDIA can provide contact information for GPU suppliers but cannot guarantee access to specific products.

What if my startup doesn’t generate revenue yet?

Generating revenue is not required for membership. The program and benefits are designed to evolve with your growth.

Founder guide

What NVIDIA Inception offers startups and how to apply

NVIDIA Inception is a free program for AI startups. Members get training, discounts on NVIDIA hardware, cloud credits, VC introductions and marketing support. There are no fees, deadlines or equity requirements.

Last checked 20 October 2026 against 4 official pages · 3 min read

free
membership cost: under 10
years old to join: no deadlines
application timing: no equity
requirement

Who can join NVIDIA Inception

Startups must be officially incorporated, have a working website, be less than 10 years old and have a clear use case for NVIDIA technology. At least one founder must actively operate the company.

The following types of organizations do not qualify: consulting and outsourced development firms, companies associated with cryptocurrency, cloud service providers, resellers, distributors and public companies.

What NVIDIA Inception members get

Training and guidance: free self-paced technical courses, discounted expert-led workshops, full access to NVIDIA Developer Forums and a monthly newsletter with product releases and members-only offers.

Developer tools and offers: latest SDKs, model libraries, developer platforms, preferred pricing on select NVIDIA hardware and software, exclusive partner offers on tools and services, and free cloud credits from NVIDIA and partners.

Investor access: exposure to NVIDIA’s VC network through Inception Capital Connect (eligibility-based) and curated networking events with startups, top VCs and NVIDIA executives.

Brand and market reach: official badges, co-branded social content, customizable assets for events, introductions to NVIDIA’s global networks and go-to-market opportunities as engagement grows.

How much it costs

Inception is free. There are no application fees, membership fees or equity requirements.

To remain eligible for benefits, members must keep product and company details updated in the portal.

How to apply

Submit an application on the NVIDIA Inception page with details about your business and products. NVIDIA reviews the application and reaches out afterward.

There are no deadlines or cohorts; applications are accepted year-round.

How to update your profile

After approval, log in to the Inception portal. Update product and company details regularly to stay eligible for benefits and receive personalized recommendations.

Add team members via the “Manage Users” tab to give them portal access.

How to contact the program team

Email [email protected] for general inquiries.

Startups in China should email [email protected].

How to get the most value from Inception

Add product details to your portal profile.
Update product and company details regularly.
Attend a welcome session for new members (details in the portal).
Check the email series for new members in your first weeks.
Explore the portal for benefits, marketing assets and developer resources.
Give your team portal access via the “Manage Users” section.

Step by step

1
Apply to NVIDIA Inception
Go to the NVIDIA Inception page and click “Apply Now.” Fill in your company details, pitch deck and product information. Submit the form. NVIDIA reviews applications and contacts you afterward.
2
Log in to the Inception portal
After approval, click “Member Sign-in” at the top right of the Inception page or visit the sign-in page directly. Enter your email and password.
3
Update your profile
In the portal, add or edit product and company details. Keep this information current to remain eligible for benefits and receive personalized recommendations.
4
Add team members
In the portal, go to the “Manage Users” tab. Add team members and set their access rights so they can also use the portal.

Frequently asked questions

Can my startup join if it isn’t using NVIDIA GPUs or SDKs yet?: Yes. Inception can help you understand which NVIDIA solutions fit your workload. Members receive codes for free self-paced courses and special pricing for instructor-led workshops.
Why do I need to include a pitch deck in my application?: The pitch deck helps NVIDIA understand your company’s mission, solutions and market value. This information is used to provide personalized recommendations, workload-specific resources and go-to-market opportunities.
What GPU discounts are available to members?: Members get preferred pricing on select enterprise-grade GPUs. This functions as a rebate deducted from the standard supplier price. NVIDIA does not sell directly to members or control supplier pricing.
Is preferred pricing available for all NVIDIA hardware and software?: Preferred pricing is only available for select hardware and software products and is subject to change.
Do members receive special access to GPUs not currently on the market?: No. NVIDIA can provide contact information for GPU suppliers but cannot guarantee access to specific products.
What if my startup doesn’t generate revenue yet?: Generating revenue is not required for membership. The program and benefits are designed to evolve with your growth.

Official sources

Rules and amounts change. Check these before you apply.

Inception Program for Startups | NVIDIA — nvidia.com
3. NGC Private Registry User Guide — NVIDIA GPU Cloud Documentation — docs.nvidia.com
Embedded Systems Developer Kits & Modules from NVIDIA Jetson — nvidia.com
High-Performance Spectrum Ethernet Platform for AI Networking | NVIDIA — nvidia.com

How this guide was made: StartupReader wrote it with AI from the official pages above, read on 20 October 2026. Every figure and name in it was checked automatically against those pages, and anything they don't support was left out. It's re-checked every month. It isn't affiliated with the program. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.