Microsoft launches program for founders

Anyone with a good idea can be supported by the US company in the future. Mentors and investors from the Microsoft network will provide support, and the company will also make its products available at reduced prices.

Knowledge, network and products from Microsoft for founders: this is what the new "Microsoft for Startups" programme, including the Start-up Hub, offers. Participating start-ups can use discounted packages of Microsoft applications, are connected with local partner companies or receive support from Microsoft's investor network. Startups can still sign up and will be notified once they are unlocked.

Access to Azure, GitHub Enterprise or Microsoft 365 licenses can include a $25,000 value in the process. Microsoft particularly wants to support start-ups in the initial phase and provides them with 1:1 support through mentors who are to advise and accompany them from the market launch of a product to the topic of personnel.

In doing so, Microsoft aims to build a "digital ecosystem that fosters opportunity and democratizes innovation, regardless of where talent is located or what their background is," the company writes in a blog post. Anyone with an idea is welcome, regardless of location, background, or advancement.