Microsoft launches program for founders

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

Knowledge, network and products from Microsoft for founders: this is what the new "Microsoft for Startups" program, 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. Start-ups can still register and will be notified as soon as they are activated.

Access to Azure, GitHub Enterprise or Microsoft 365 licenses can include a value of 25,000 US dollars. Microsoft wants to support start-ups in the initial phase in particular and is providing them with 1:1 support from mentors who will advise and support them from the market launch of a product to the topic of personnel.

Microsoft wants to build a "digital ecosystem that promotes opportunities and democratizes innovation, regardless of where talent is located or what background they have," the company writes in a blog post. Anyone with an idea is welcome, regardless of location, background or progress.