June 1, 2023

How to Migrate to AWS: A Complete Guide to Free Migration

Startups are constantly seeking scalable and cost-effective cloud solutions. Among the various cloud providers available, Amazon Web Services (AWS) stands out as the top choice for startups. AWS offers a wide range of services combined with high scalability, reliability, and cost-efficient pricing options.

No wonder these advantages have led to a significant increase in the number of startups planning to migrate to AWS. Recognizing this growing interest, AWS has developed dedicated programs such as the Startup Migrate Program (SMP). This program offers migration support, credits, and resources to help startups migrate to AWS with ease. 

In this article, we’ll cover the essential elements of the AWS Startup Migrate Program (SMP), including its benefits, process, and eligibility criteria.

What is Startup Migrate Program (SMP)/ IW Migrate?

The Startup Migrate Program (SMP) is a full-scale migration program offered by our team to assist startups in migrating their external workloads from other cloud platforms, co-location, or on-premises to AWS. SMP is a smaller version of the AWS Migration Acceleration Program (MAP), which provides comprehensive support throughout the migration process. 

Enterprise migrations can be complex and time-consuming, but SMP can help you accelerate your cloud migration and modernization journey with an outcome-driven methodology. Through SMP, you can build strong AWS cloud foundations, accelerate and reduce risk, and offset the initial cost of migrations. By leveraging the performance, security, and reliability of the cloud, you can begin your journey today.

Benefits of AWS Startup Migrate Program (SMP)

The Startup Migrate Program (SMP) offers several benefits to startups that make the transition to AWS as stress-free as possible. These benefits include:

  • Ongoing Support from AWS Partner: We have the expertise and qualifications required to successfully implement migrations. We understand that the migration process can be overwhelming, which is why you can rely on our assistance. Throughout the entire journey, we will provide continuous support and guidance, ensuring a smooth and successful migration to AWS.
  • Cost Savings: The SMP program helps startups migrate to AWS with minimal hassle and cost. By participating, you can enjoy the benefits of AWS while saving money on professional migration services. The compensation provided by AWS generally covers all the effort required for your hands-on infrastructure migration.
  • Leverage AWS Benefits: As an advanced AWS Partner, we can assist you in maximizing the advantages offered by various AWS programs. For example, by combining SMP and Activate Programs, we can help you access up to $100,000 in free AWS credits! This unique opportunity ensures that you can enjoy the benefits of AWS while delaying your first invoice for months or even years after initiating the service.
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Eligibility Criteria for SMP / IW Migrate

To participate in the Startup Migrate Program (SMP) / IW Migrate, startups must meet certain eligibility criteria set by AWS. While specific eligibility requirements evolve over time, generally, startups need to fulfill the following criteria:

  • Migration Scope: Startups should have external workloads hosted on other cloud platforms, such as Google Cloud, Azure, Digital Ocean, or on-premises environments, that they are looking to migrate to the AWS Cloud.
  • Current Spend: Startups must provide proof of their current spend above $5,000 per month on competitor clouds. This requirement demonstrates that the startup has an existing infrastructure that can benefit from migrating to AWS.
  • Verification Process: AWS verifies the eligibility of startups by assessing their company details and proof of current spending. The verification process ensures that the SMP resources and benefits are allocated to startups who meet the program’s criteria.

It’s important to note that eligibility criteria may vary, and it is advisable to consult an official AWS Partner, such as Cloudvisor, or directly contact AWS.

Why Work With AWS Partner for SMP/ IW Migrate?

Navigating the migration process to AWS can often be complex and overwhelming. That’s why it is best to get support from experienced AWS partners, such as Cloudvisor. By sharing our 10+ years of AWS experience with you, we aim to build trust and familiarity with your startup, which could potentially lead to a long-term partnership. 

What’s in it for us? We will handle the migration for you for free, and AWS will compensate us for our migration services. It’s a win-win!

Once you decide to embark on the SMP journey with us, our senior-level AWS-certified Engineers will be there by your side at every step of the process, from planning to execution. You can count on our expertise to ensure a smooth migration process and address any concerns that may arise along the way.

Partnering with Cloudvisor opens doors to AWS benefits for startups through our AWS Resell program. By joining this program, you’ll receive a monthly discount on your AWS spending, free Cost Optimization Reviews, and on-demand consulting sessions from a dedicated Customer Success Manager.

The best part? All of these benefits come at no extra cost to you!



How to Get Started With AWS SMP/ IW Migrate?

The AWS Startup Migrate Program (SMP) is a great initiative designed to help startups migrate their workloads to AWS for free. By working with AWS partners, such as Cloudvisor, startups can streamline their migration process and receive additional perks.

As an official AWS partner, we will guide you through the journey, explain the program’s ins and outs, and make sure your migration journey is as smooth as possible.

The first step towards getting started with our services is booking a no-commitment intro call with our team. During the call, we will have a detailed discussion about your individual case, your goals, and your specific needs.