Microsoft to incubate 10 Indian startups

BANGALORE, INDIA: Global software major Microsoft will incubate 10 early-stage technology startups in cloud computing, Internet and mobile using its Accelerator for Windows Azure programme to help them build businesses, a top official said on Wednesday.

"The startups will have access to our resources such as BizSpark programme and $60,000 in Azure credit through BizSpark Plus programme to take advantage of the cloud," Microsoft India (R&D) Managing Director Amit Chatterjee told reporters here unveiling the programme in the Indian sub-continent.

Startups that can build any application using the company's cloud platform and operate in any business or market segment will be eligible to apply for the programme, being launched simultaneously in Beijing (China), Tel Aviv (Israel), Seattle (US) and Bangalore.

The startups will also be able to leverage the company's Metro user interface on Window 8 and Window Phone to operate in a cloud environment.

Cloud computing uses a network of computers, data centres and storage systems as an integrated IT infrastructure for seamless operations, eliminating investments in stand-alone IT installation by enterprises and small and medium businesses.

To be selected for the four-month incubation, prospective startups can apply online from Wednesday till July 1 and join the programme from September at the company's office in this tech hub.

"The startups will have the benefit of mentorship and coaching from successful entrepreneurs, leading venture capitalists and industry leaders. We are also partnering with industry mentors to provide startups with the support they need to innovate and become successful businesses," Chatterjee said.

The company will also facilitate meetings between startups and venture capitalists and prospective investors in addition to mentoring.

"The benefit of the programme will be measured by the success of the startups though we will have no stake in them," Chatterjee said.