Microsoft Announces Microsoft Ventures for Startups
Microsoft is refining its support and resources for entrepreneurs.
With its developer conference starting today, Microsoft's in for a big week, and the company decided to kick off Build with a huge announcement. Microsoft on Tuesday unveiled plans for an startup support program it's calling Microsoft Ventures.
Redmond describes Microsoft Ventures as a 'coordinated global effort' to help entrepreneurs get their companies off the ground and it includes the company's BizSpark program, Microsoft Ventures Accelerators, and Seed Funding from Microsoft Ventures. BizSpark offers free and discounted access to Microsoft products, while the Ventures Accelorators are immersive 3-6 month accelerator programs that provide access to business mentors, technical and design experts, development tools and other key resources. Seed Funding from Microsoft Ventures is an evolution of the Bing Fund. Microsoft is promising additional funding for even more startups.
"We know that the barriers to turn an idea into a business have never been lower," said Microsoft's Rahul Sood. "At the same time, entrepreneurs at any maturity level still need a lot of assistance, and there are more resources than ever available to help them."
Sood joined Microsoft in 2010 and launched Microsoft's Bing Fund in March of last year. Prior to working at Microsoft, he worked as CTO for HP's Global Gaming Business. Sood moved to Hewlett Packard after the company bought Voodoo PC, which Sood founded in the early 90s.
For more from Microsoft Build 2013, check out our keynote live blog from today!
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Jane McEntegart is a writer, editor, and marketing communications professional with 17 years of experience in the technology industry. She has written about a wide range of technology topics, including smartphones, tablets, and game consoles. Her articles have been published in Tom's Guide, Tom's Hardware, MobileSyrup, and Edge Up.
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happyballz I would want nothing to do with Microsoft if I am trying to get funding for a project. With their latest fiasco of decisions on multiple fronts they will need "...access to business mentors, technical and design experts..." themselves.Reply
Besides there are numerous proven kick-start like organizations. -
nevilence Reply11045562 said:I read "Microsoft Vultures"
This sounds way more suitable.
+1, up voting doesnt work atm so you get a plus one ;)