Microsoft is offering fledgling web companies a helping hand for the first three years MICROSOFT is giving away free software to internet start-ups under the BizSpark programme for thirty countries, which includes Ireland. BizSpark will provide ‘free’ licences and technical support for several Microsoft products. The licences will be free for the first three years, says Microsoft.
Microsoft is eyeing the likes of rivals within Google and Salesforce who are upping their promotion of web applications for business and hoping this new offer will bring in new customers that will retain the Microsoft packages when the free time runs out. Irish companies participating in BizSpark will be given technology support and a network of partners to help support their growth and development.
BizSpark provides entrepreneurs with fast and easy access to Microsoft software including development tools and server products with no upfront costs, it provides discounts on the purchase of Dell hardware and preferential rates from internet hosters, enabling companies to get their products and services online faster and more cost effectively.
In addition, BizSpark start ups receive professional support from Microsoft as well as community-driven support from a range of Network Partners. Network partners are active organisations in the entrepreneurial space who can provide guidance, mentorship and resources to start ups. Network Partners from Ireland and Northern Ireland include Digital Media Forum, the Irish Internet Association, the Irish Software Association and Momentum NI.
BizSpark members can also avail of special offers from hardware partners such as Dell, training partners such as New Horizons, and hosting providers such as Blacknight, C-Infinity, Digiweb, Eircom and Hosting365. Irish companies interested in finding out more information on how to join the BizSpark programme can contact www.microsoft.ie/bizspark In the US, Microsoft has already signed up a number of clients with programmes like Office SharePoint Portal Server, BizTalk Server and Systems Center, with Dynamics CRM to be added soon. Firms can also use Microsoft Developer Network.
BizSpark will target private firms that less than three years old, and are developing an online service or hosted application. It is not the first time Microsoft has offered free software for start-ups, but it has not offered such an extended period of ‘free time’ (three years) until now. There will be no usage restrictions on the packages agreed, according to Microsoft.