Startup independent software vendors showcase qualified products at Microsoft Innovation Center

The Software Business Accelerator Program was launched by the Microsoft Innovation Center (MIC) in collaboration with the Arab Science and Technology Foundation (ASTF) back in October 2008.

The goal of the program is to support startup Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) through the product development phase by helping them improve processes to upgrade their products, enable the assessment of potential high performing software houses, and help showcase the program as a best practice.

Zeid Shubailat, Country Manager of Microsoft Jordan, stated:

"It is important for Microsoft to continuously support local Independent Software Vendors in all their endeavors, and programs such as the Software Business Accelerator program provide us with the opportunity to strengthen and solidify our relationships with local Independent Software vendors, in addition to helping them promote and market their qualified products to attract potential business opportunities."

Dr. Wissam Rabadi, Country Director of ASTF-Jordan, stated, "Our partnership with Microsoft Innovation Center (MIC) in this program is an excellent opportunity for us to help Jordanian software startups develop high level solutions and receive free licenses for the necessary platforms provided by Microsoft and the required training to best utilize their tools. Through this program we are also helping startups receive market exposure and reach out to potential clients through the showcase event."

As part of the program, the 15 startups underwent four important phases before showcasing their products at the MIC. The first phase was a one-on-one meeting that ensured the startups met the criteria for the selection process, showed interest in developing a product and had the will and potential to participate in the program.

The capacity building phase provided all participants with free Microsoft business and technical training courses such as the Microsoft Solution Framework (MSF), SharePoint, SQL Server, Visual Studio, Startups Corporate Governance and a Software Business Management Course.

The third phase, which is the product development phase, ensured that the participants received the support and help they needed to develop a qualified product. All participants received invitations to enroll in the BizSpark program, an initiative that was launched by Microsoft at the beginning of this year, which is uniquely designed to help Startups that are engaged in software development.

The final market bridging phase is the showcase event that took place today, where interested startups had the opportunity to present their products. Among the ISVs that took part in the showcase include CIApple, Focus Solutions, Minerets, LKD, Ketab Scientific Solutions, and Light Cell Information Technology.