Microsoft is launching a new Global Social Entrepreneurship programme to offer qualified start-ups access to technology, education, customers and grants. The global initiative is designed to help social enterprise startups build and scale their companies to do good globally. The programme is available in 140 countries and will actively seek to support underrepresented founders with diverse perspectives and backgrounds. The criteria to qualify for the programme include a business metric that measures impact on an important social or environmental challenge; an established product or service that will benefit from access to enterprise customers; and a commitment to the ethical and responsible use of AI.
Social enterprises that become part of the Global Social Entrepreneurship programme will receive access to free Microsoft cloud technologies, including up to USD 120,000 in Azure credits, along with technical support and guidance. A dedicated programme manager will help Global Social Entrepreneurship start-ups market and sell products and connect to large commercial organisations and nongovernmental organisations that are potential customers. Participants focused on sustainability, accessibility, and skills and employability will also be eligible for grants. And social enterprises that join the Global Social Entrepreneurship programme will be part of a worldwide community of like-minded innovators who come together to share ideas, foster connections and celebrate success.
