AWS for Startups: 6 Useful Tips for Startups Building on AWS
As a leader in cloud computing, AWS is the preferred choice for startups to innovate, scale, and succeed. Almost 83% of the world's unicorns (startups valued over $1 billion) use AWS. However, being a startup also means less margin for mistakes.
Since AWS is a vast platform of cloud computing tools and services, startups need to be smart enough to effectively use them without making costly mistakes. Therefore, this guide is meant for startups building on AWS. Here, you will learn a few useful tips that can help you in the ongoing journey of deploying AWS solutions for your startup.
1. Join AWS Activate
AWS Activate is an Amazon program for startups that provides all the essential resources they require to build, launch, and scale on AWS. It provides training/support materials, pre-built infrastructure templates, access to free trials and discounts, and much more. It even allows you to apply for up to $100,000 in AWS credits, which you can use to pay for AWS services.
AWS Activates works with dozens of angel investors, accelerators, startup-enabling organizations, and seed/venture capital firms to provide startups with everything they need to succeed. In short, you should join AWS Activate to have a smooth journey on AWS.
2. Prefer Infrastructure as Code over AWS Console
It is highly recommended to define all AWS infrastructure in the form of infrastructure as code (IaC) rather than AWS console. One of the major benefits is enhanced productivity.
You can also build in the AWS console, but it mainly focuses on a single service. If you are building something exceptional, you must be integrating multiple services. In such cases, using IaC is more effective. For IaC, you can use CloudFormation, CDK, SAM, or other third-party options.
3. Use Multiple Accounts for Different Workloads
Another useful tip is to create multiple AWS accounts for different workloads. For example, you can separate the development, testing, and production workloads into separate AWS accounts. This will help you isolate workloads and eradicate unintentional modification of production resources. Moreover, it also helps to improve security and resource management.
To add new accounts, you can set up an AWS Organization and then add accounts via the Organizations console.
4. Implement Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery (CI/CD)
Continuous Integration and Continuous Delivery (CI/CD) is a set of practices to automate the process of development, testing, and publishing software chances. For startups, implementing CI/CD is recommended to streamline and automate code deployment, testing, and release processes.
You can leverage services like AWS CodePipeline, AWS CodeBuild, and AWS CodeDeploy, which can reduce manual errors and facilitate development workflows with expedited feature delivery.
5. Use AWS Cloud-Native Services
AWS has various cloud-native services, including, AWS Lambda (for serverless compute), Amazon RDS (for managed databases), Amazon S3 (for object storage), and many more.
If you opt for AWS cloud-native services, you can build cost-effective and scalable solutions without the hassle of managing relevant infrastructure.
6. Take Advantage of AWS Resources
As a startup, it is not uncommon that you may need to seek outside help. To tackle this, AWS offers a wide range of resources and programs for startups. For example, AWS IQ allows you to hire third-party experts for the project. Similarly, you can get AWS Enterprise Support, which provides access to architectural reviews tailored guidance.
You can also engage with the vast AWS community through meetups, forums, and online events. Below are top communities to explore.
Startup Networking Communities
When it comes to networking within the startup community, several online platforms cater specifically to the needs of entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals looking to engage with the startup ecosystem. The following are some of the top online startup networking communities:
Opulence is a private network for online businesses and entrepreneurs looking to grow their professional network and income. They provide courses and you also have the opportunity to earn cash back that can be used to cover the membership fee.\ \ Product Hunt
Product Hunt is a platform where new products are discovered and shared. It offers a community where startup founders can showcase their products, gather feedback, and connect with potential users and investors.
\ FounderDating
FounderDating is a platform focused on connecting entrepreneurs with co-founders, advisors, and potential team members. It provides a space for networking and finding the right talent for startup ventures.
Techstars is a global network that offers startup programs, accelerators, and community events. It provides extensive networking opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to grow their startups and connect with mentors and investors.\ \ StartupNation
StartupNation is a community-focused platform that provides resources, articles, forums, and opportunities for networking among entrepreneurs and small business owners.
\ Y Combinator's Hacker News
Hacker News, created by startup accelerator Y Combinator, is a community-driven platform where startup founders, developers, and tech enthusiasts discuss and share insightful content, providing networking and learning opportunities.
These platforms offer valuable networking opportunities, resources, and connections specific to the startup ecosystem, supporting entrepreneurs in their journey to build and grow their ventures.
Wrapping Up
AWS has become a go-to platform for startups to bring their idea to reality. However, it is equally important to be smart and proactive in using AWS to maximize its use. Above, we have discussed six useful tips to consider, but you should keep looking for more as you navigate the cloud landscape.
Just remember, the cloud is dynamic, and continuous learning is key!
