Microsoft launches Global Social Entrepreneurship program – help and support for startups focused on social good

Microsoft is continuing its efforts to promote social good (and to promote the use of Microsoft technologies in those efforts), announcing today a new program aimed at startups focused on social projects like a smartphone-based cholera detection system, devices to skim trash from our oceans, and competitions that yield valuable artificial intelligence solutions from participating data scientists.

The new program, launching in 140 countries, will “actively seek to support underrepresented founders with diverse perspectives and backgrounds. The criteria to qualify for the program 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.”

Microsoft is offering social enterprises that join the program up to $120,000 in Azure credits, as well as technical support and guidance, including a dedicated program manager to help startups market and sell solutions, and to connect with potential customers. The Social Entrepreneurship program will also offer grants to participants focused on sustainability, accessibility, and skills and employability.

You can learn more about the program, and if you’re eligible, apply, at Startups.Microsoft.com/en-us/socialentrepreneurship