Microsoft has recently launched a new fund to support companies with solutions which help to provide affordable internet access in under-served markets. The fund is part of Microsoft’s Affordable Access Initiative, which invests in cloud-based services and applications, business models and last-mile access technologies that can in one way or another reduce the cost of Internet access. Starting form Monday November 15, 2015, eligible companies can submit their applications at Microsoft Affordable Access Initiative.
Through its this initiative, Microsoft collaborates with internet providers and private and public sector organizations in developing new and practical connectivity and service solutions that will provide a great socioeconomic impact in the lives of as many people as possible.
Executive vice president of Business development at Microsoft, Peggy Johnson, while speaking about the initiative said “Today there are approximately 4 billion people globally without Internet access. The ability to close that gap is more achievable than ever with technology that is readily available and affordable in many parts of the world. Through this fund, we hope to kick-start the entrepreneurial process by identifying promising ideas that we can help nurture, grow and scale.”
Other efforts Microsoft has deployed to help in these efforts include:
- Microsoft 4Afrika Initiative: This is a multiyear initiative through which Microsoft is actively engaging in the economic development of the continent by improving Africa’s global competitiveness through locally relevant innovation, affordable access and skills development.
- Microsoft’s deployment of TV white spaces technology: This initiative re-purposes TV frequencies not being used locally so that they can be used to provide robust and affordable internet access to entire communities.
How to apply
Applicants must:
- Be commercial organizations with two or more full-time employees
- Have a prototype of a working solution and preferably paying customers.
- Submit only programs and business models that may combine low-cost forms of Internet connectivity, new cloud services and applications, and new payment mechanisms designed for consumers and smaller businesses in under-served markets.
- Prove potential to scale to new markets and leverage partner distribution models
- Provide valid copies of licenses and authorizations
- Present a business plan free of legal and regulatory impediments
- Submit their applications on or before midnight Pacific Standard Time (PST) on Jan. 15, 2016.
A list of complete criteria, and the application, can be found at Microsoft Affordable Access Initiative
In addition to receiving approximately $75,000 in funding and free software and services, recipients of the grant will also have the opportunity to participate in a program offered by Microsoft to connect with other grant recipients and potential funders.