Microsoft Reaches Out to Startups

The Microsoft Startups Founders Hub platform is now available with reduced eligibility requirements, a new OpenAI API offer, and improved tech benefits. It was previously available only in limited preview.

“We set out to better understand what startups need to be successful, especially when just getting started,” Microsoft cloud and AI COO Charlotte Yarkoni announced. “Based on real-world feedback from thousands of entrepreneurs from around the world, across a range of backgrounds, we are excited to unveil, Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub. Open to anyone with an idea, the platform is designed to address the most common challenges startups face.”

The Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub seeks to eliminate the traditional barriers that founders face when getting started—venture capital requirements, third-party validation, and so on—while speeding development with free access to GitHub and the Microsoft Cloud. Microsoft is also partnering with OpenAI to provide startups with exclusive benefits and discounts, and it provides access to mentorship and guidance so that startups can connect with industry veterans, access startup-centric training, and get expert technical guidance.

“Our ambition is to make the global startup ecosystem more representative of the world at large regardless of background, location, progress or passion,” Microsoft vice president Jeff Ma says. “As an experienced founder, access to a diverse network—to validate ideas, get advice and coaching—was instrumental in my success and is something we aim to provide to every founder through the Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub.”

To learn more, check out the Microsoft for Startups website.