Setting Up Your App Store and App Store Connect Account

Creating an App Store account and an App Store Connect account is an essential step for developers looking to publish their apps on the Apple App Store. This guide will walk you through the process in simple steps.

Step 1: Enroll for the Apple Developer Program

To get started, you'll need to register for the Apple Developer Program. This program allows you to distribute your apps on the App Store and provides access to resources for app development and distribution. If you have any questions regarding the account creation process after going through this guide, we recommend referring to Apple's Membership support page for further assistance.

Visit the Apple Developer Website: Go to the Apple Developer website to begin the enrollment process.
Choosing the Right Account Type: When enrolling, make sure to select the membership type as "Organization" if you are enrolling on behalf of a company, society, or institution. This option allows your organization to distribute apps under its legal entity name.

Please note:

Creating the Account on Behalf of Your Company: You are creating the Apple Developer account on behalf of your company. It is important not to use your personal email address to enroll. Instead, use an email address associated with your company or organization. This ensures that the account remains accessible to other authorized personnel in the future.
Avoid Using Personal iOS Devices for Two-Factor Authentication: When setting up your Apple Developer account, refrain from using your personal iOS device for two-factor authentication. Using a personal device could create complications if the device is lost or if there are changes in ownership or access. It is recommended to use a device that is designated for company use or shared among authorized team members.

Step 2: Creating an Apple ID

To enroll your organization in the Apple Developer Program, you need to sign in with an Apple ID. If you don't have one, you can create it on the Apple ID portal.

Creating a New Apple ID: If you don't already have an Apple ID, you can create one on the Apple ID portal.
Important Note on Two-Factor Authentication: When setting up your Apple ID, consider enabling Two-Factor Authentication for added security. Once enabled, it cannot be switched off, so choose this option carefully.

The Apple ID you use must have the authority to make legal agreements for your organization. This means you should be the owner/founder, an executive, a senior project lead, or have permission from a senior employee.

Step 3: Select Organization Membership

When signing up your company or institution for the Apple Developer Program, choose the "Organization" membership type. This option allows organizations to publish apps using their official legal name, which will appear in the App Store beneath the app's title.

The membership fee is $99 annually. However, Apple offers a special benefit for entrepreneurs, providing a 1-year free membership to eligible individuals. This includes entrepreneurs who are part of the Apple Entrepreneur Camp program.

Apple Entrepreneur Camp Program

The Apple Entrepreneur Camp is a unique initiative designed to support and empower entrepreneurs in the app development ecosystem. This program offers:

Guidance from Apple Experts: One-on-one guidance and mentorship from Apple engineers and leaders.
Technical Support and Resources: Access to technical support, code-level assistance, and resources to enhance app development skills.
Networking Opportunities: Engagement with fellow entrepreneurs and the Apple developer community.
1-Year Free Apple Developer Program Membership: Entrepreneurs accepted into the program receive a complimentary 1-year membership to the Apple Developer Program, enabling app distribution on the App Store and access to development tools.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Apple Entrepreneur Camp program and the complimentary 1-year Apple Developer Program membership, applicants must:

Present an Innovative App Concept: Showcase a visionary app concept that exhibits creativity and potential impact.
Demonstrate Dedication: Show a passion for learning and growing as an entrepreneur and app developer.
Engage with Apple Technologies: Display familiarity with Apple platforms, technologies, and design principles.

How to Apply

Apply for the Apple Entrepreneur Camp through the official program website. The application process involves submitting details about your app idea, business plan, and reasons for joining the program.

For more details on the Apple Entrepreneur Camp program and other membership types, visit the Compare Membership page on the Apple website.

Step 4: Enrollment Details for Organizations

Now that you have your Apple ID, let's proceed with enrolling your organization in the Apple Developer Program. Here's what you'll need:

Legal Entity Status: Your organization must be a legal entity capable of entering contracts. This ensures that it can distribute apps under its legal name on the App Store.
D‑U‑N‑S Number: Your organization must have a unique D‑U‑N‑S Number assigned by Dun & Bradstreet. This number verifies your organization's identity and legal status. You can check if your organization has a D‑U‑N‑S Number and request one if needed. This process is usually free and can be done on the D-U-N-S lookup tool.
Legal Binding Authority: As the person enrolling your organization, you must have the legal authority to bind your organization to legal agreements. This includes being the organization's owner, founder, executive team member, senior project lead, or having legal authority granted by a senior employee.

Step 5: Payment

Once you have entered all the necessary information, you'll proceed to the payment screen.

Membership Costs: The Apple Developer Program membership costs $99 per year. However, Apple offers a special benefit for entrepreneurs, providing a 1-year free membership to eligible individuals. This includes entrepreneurs who are part of the Apple Entrepreneur Camp program.
Payment Options: You can make the payment using a credit card or PayPal.
Completing the Process: After the payment is completed, you'll have access to your Apple Developer account. Here, you can view and manage your apps, access development resources, and more.

Adding Team Members

You can invite other team members, such as developers or managers, to your Apple Developer account. This allows them to collaborate on app development and distribution.

Adding Team Members: Team members can be added later through the People page in your account.