Microsoft’s BizSpark India Start-up Challenge, in its third year, has invited applications from technology enthusiasts across India, aiming to discover and support the next wave of promising start-ups in India. As of now with 2 weeks away from deadline, the competition has already received 690 registrations this year which shows a very healthy intent to innovate and create high quality product start-ups. For the first time, the competition is being organized across 10 cities, including Mumbai, Kolkata, Cochin, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Pune, Coimbatore, Chennai, and Bangalore. The search is on for fresh ideas and vibrant leaders who can help shape the future of Cloud computing and Mobility. The competition aims to help start-ups succeed by giving them access to software development tools, connecting them with key industry players, and providing marketing visibility. Participants can submit their business ideas electronically on: http://www.microsoft.com/
10 finalists from each region will be short listed on the basis of their ingenuity, creativity and innovation and they will get a chance to present their business plan to a distinguished jury at the Regional Finals in 10 different cities. Each regional winner gets the privilege to pitch at national finals in Bangalore on 4th June, 2013 to compete for the National Top 3 positions.
The teams are contesting for a grant prize of $70K in cash and $2 Million worth of non-cash prizes such as Windows Phones, liaisons with venture capitalists, an exclusive connect with Microsoft account management teams to evangelize the solution, relevanttraining, as well as a BizSpark Plus membership.
BizSpark is a global program designed to accelerate the success of IT entrepreneurs through software support and a vibrant ecosystem in the country by providing them with software, support and visibility during the first three years. In three years, the program has impacted over 2725 startups by providing professional software at no charge. Along with facilitating technical support for the startups, Microsoft has tied up with venture capitalists who are helping startups with financial aid as well.
