Put Google Cloud credits to work.
Cloud credits are more valuable when they support an architecture you actually want. Don't add infrastructure just because a promotional balance makes it look temporarily free.
Review the official application
Check the Google for Startups Cloud Program for current eligibility and benefit tiers. Gather company details and expected workloads. Confirm what your specific award includes instead of assuming the advertised maximum will apply.
Map coverage to your services
Separate compute, storage, databases, and AI usage in the forecast. Confirm which services are eligible under the grant. Keep a record of expiry and any account or region restrictions that affect your product.
Keep the exit visible
Set a budget for the first month on standard billing. Remove idle experiments and monitor non-covered charges. Before discussing an unused-balance transfer, check the actual grant terms; access to credits does not automatically mean they can be sold.