|
Microsoft BizSpark Programme – Free Microsoft Software for Technology Start-ups
|
|
|
|
Monday, 20 April 2009
|
|
|
|
The Microsoft BizSpark programme is a new programme recently launched by Microsoft by providing new start-ups (been in business less than 3 years) full access to Microsoft’s tools and technologies, as well as production licensing for hosted their software.
This is a significant step forward for Microsoft and start-ups since often the high cost of development and hosting tools are a huge burden for new technology start-ups to bear. With BizSpark start-ups can use the latest Microsoft software to develop their business for free of charge. This includes development tools such as Visual Studio, SQL Server and Biztalk, Operating Systems such as Windows XP, Vista, and the new Windows 7 beta and also office products such as Office 2007 and Project 2007. Hundreds of software titles are available for download all of which commercially is worth thousands of dollars.
So what’s the catch? There is a set of criteria notably you must be developing a new software as a service solution so this rules out services companies. In addition although there is no initial join up fee there is a $100US fee at the end of the 3 year period and after that period should you wish to continue using the software and hosting you’ll revert back to the standard Microsoft licensing and pricing agreements. Full details are on BizSpark website
The sign up process is straight forward and doesn’t take long to get your application processed. A big part of the programme is also linking your start-up with network partners for mentoring and business advice. There are already many network partners in New Zealand from Incubators such as The Icehouse and AUT Business Innovation Centre through to leading software development companies such as Augen NZ and Mindscape. Further you can also profile your business on the global BizSpark directory to get more exposure for your start-up. So if you’re a new NZ technology start-up its well worth a look at.
|
|
|
|
