AIS Network has participated in the Microsoft BizSpark program since it began about 5 years ago.
We love our BizSpark friends, the program and everything that it represents. The program has supported more than 100,00 startups in more than 165 countries.
So, why didn’t we designate a page for BizSpark? Well, when we redesigned our website last fall, that page came down because our focus on compliance/security-focused large enterprises just wasn’t bringing enough startup traffic to our site.
However, like the neighborhood restaurant that has changed its menu and dropped some of your favorite dishes, you can always still ask for what you need. The “kitchen” — in this case, our business development team — is ready for any request. AISN would be happy to accommodate any BizSpark inquiries and requests.
In the meantime, below are some frequently asked questions…
Microsoft BizSpark FAQs
What is Microsoft BizSpark?
It’s an international network of entrepreneurial startups and partners. It offers three years of free software, support, visibility and Azure cloud services for qualifying startups. This is a great deal, because in most cases, these startups could not afford the software licensing and marketing support on their own.
Can AISN help me sign up with BizSpark?
Yes. Signing up is free and it’s quite easy to join.
How do I know if I qualify for BizSpark?
Your startup qualifies if it’s less than 5 years old, is privately held, and earns less than $1M annually.
Do BizSpark startups get free software?
Yes. They get access to 900+ current, full-featured software development tools, platform technologies, and server products to build software applications. BizSpark startups also get free monthly Microsoft Azure benefits, enabling them to quickly build, deploy, and manage Web applications.
Do BizSpark startups get any support?
Yes, lots. Startups become part of the BizSpark ecosystem and get access to investors, advisors, and valuable offers to help run their businesses, find talent, and obtain financing. Startups also get access to technical, product and business training and support.
Will BizSpark provide visibility?
Yes, BizSpark help startups gain market traction. The program offers the opportunity for your startup to promote your app on the BizSpark website and gain further visibility through the Featured BizSpark Startup series.
Can I publish and market my app through BizSpark?
Yes. BizSpark members receive free one-year Windows Store and Windows Phone developer accounts. Use them to promote and distribute your apps around the world, offer trial versions to build excitement, track sales and customer feedback in the dashboard, and more.
Are there alumni benefits?
Yes. BizSpark Alumni can keep, at no charge, all the software they downloaded during their three years in the program, including a standard configuration of Windows Server and Microsoft SQL Server. Also, special BizSpark Alumni discounts are available when BizSpark members graduate. BizSpark Alumni can purchase 2-year discounted MSDN subscriptions to continue to download software and get monthly access to Microsoft Azure and/or 2-year discounted Software Assurance for ongoing maintenance and upgrades to servers when a new version is released.
Let us know if we can help you get started! Contact us! As soon as you’re approved, you can start downloading software and building apps. And, you’ll get emails with helpful hints on how to take advantage of all BizSpark has to offer.
Laurie Head is Vice President, Marketing/Communications for AIS Network.