Part of what I want to offer subscribers to my application is a map showing the location of their customer, with the option to get directions (the idea is that they can just easily get the directions from one place instead of copying/pasting and going to Google Maps or Mapquest or whichever). As I understand it, however, Google Maps will require me to pay to use their API as my application is only visible to paid subscribers. I've contacted their Sales department to try and see just how much, but honestly any amount is too much since my startup is bootstrapped and I have little or no funds for anything.
This has got me looking at alternatives since I don't intend to pay to use a mapping API. Of the available maps, which one would you say is the most reliable as far as locations and directions? I'm considering Bing maps (formerly Live Maps) since it looks like I'm going to be using ASP.NET MVC as my platform of choice (Hey, I have a BizSpark membership for another two years - I might as well use it!) but I haven't checked their TOS to see if they have a similar proviso to Google Maps in that you need a special license if the map is only visible to paying customers.
EDIT: I guess what I'm asking is if there is any mapping service that won't charge an arm and a leg to use their mapping service on a paid, password-protected site? I was hoping to make the map integration a major feature of my product, but we're a startup so there's no money for expensive licenses for something like that.