OpenAI and Anthropic are giving away millions in computing power to attract startups

OpenAI and Anthropic are offering up to $3 million in computing credits per startup to encourage developers to build on their respective AI platforms. This competitive subsidy race, which could reach $800 million annually at incubators like Y Combinator, aims to secure long-term loyalty in an increasingly crowded market. The strategy serves as a defensive response to rising alternatives like DeepSeek, which have gained traction by providing more cost-effective solutions for companies looking to reduce their infrastructure spending.