Microsoft recently announced a new ‘Global Social Entrepreneurship Program’ to offer qualified startups access to technology, education, customer network and grants. The program, available across 140 countries, will provide free access to Microsoft technologies and a chance to be part of the community of like-minded global innovators who share ideas, foster connections and celebrate success.
Social enterprises that become part of the Global Social Entrepreneurship program will receive access to free Microsoft cloud technologies, including up to $120,000 in Azure credits, along with technical support and guidance. A dedicated program manager will help Global Social Entrepreneurship startups market and sell solutions and connect to large commercial organizations and nongovernmental organizations that are potential customers. Startups focused on sustainability, accessibility, and skills and employability will also be eligible for grants.
The Global Social Entrepreneurship program builds on Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to support the start-up community. The launch of its UAE datacenters to serve the Middle East, as well dedicated initiatives such as the Microsoft reactor program, are some of the many efforts taken by the company to empower regional start-ups accelerate innovation by harnessing the cloud technologies.