BizSpark

Microsoft BizSpark: Helping startups succeed with all the right resources

Microsoft^® BizSpark^™ is a global program that helps software startups succeed by giving them access to Microsoft software development tools, connects them with key industry players, including investors, and provides marketing visibility to help entrepreneurs starting a business.

Microsoft^® BizSpark^™ benefits to startups include:

• Software. Get immediate access to current full-featured Microsoft development tools, platform technologies, and production licenses of server products (including Windows Azure Platform) for use in developing and bringing to market innovative and interoperable solutions.

• Support.

  • Receive business development and technical training at highly subsidized costs or in many cases, no costs.

  • Receive two technical support incidents per startup. Each incident is managed by Microsoft until they are resolved, no matter how many calls it takes.

  • Receive access to MSDN Premium managed newsgroups, online library, and so on.

  • Get connected to BizSpark Network Partners around the world—incubators, investors, advisors, government agencies, and hosters—that are equally involved and vested in software-fueled innovation and entrepreneurship, and who will provide a wide range of support resources, including expert mentoring.

• Visibility. Get marketing visibility in front of an audience of potential investors, clients, partners and journalists and tap into a rich, vibrant ecosystem of peers, partners, and support resources around the globe.

Microsoft BizSpark is available in over 100 countries around the world. The fee is only $100 when startups exit the program.

Microsoft^® BizSpark^™ for Network Partners: Helping entrepreneurial community organizations accelerate entrepreneurship and innovation
Entrepreneurial community organizations that support startups through programs, mentoring, networking, business advice, or financial and legal assistance, can also join BizSpark as Network Partners to offer Microsoft BizSpark to the startups they work with.

Microsoft® BizSpark™ benefits to entrepreneurial community organizations:

• Advance innovation - Give software startups access to valuable technology-based benefits and cross-platform interoperability—at no cost to your organization.

• Build community – Connect with new, high-potential technology startups that are already a part of the Microsoft BizSpark software program.

• Gain marketing visibility – Enjoy marketing exposure as a Microsoft partner via on Microsoft Web properties, podcasts, webcasts and newsletters; plus joint PR and marketing initiatives.

If you are interested in becoming a Network Partner, please contact bizspark@microsoft.com.

Microsoft BizSpark One

Microsoft BizSpark One seeks to accelerate the growth of high potential startups through a one-to-one relationship between Microsoft and the startup. In this unique, invite-only program, startups are paired with a dedicated relationship manager. This manager works with the startup to promote visibility, expand the startup’s network of investors and mentors, expose it to business opportunities, and develop cutting-edge applications.

In some countries, BizSpark One goes a step further by forming Advisory Committees to help address common startup needs such as access to leading seed and venture capital organizations.