Microsoft Innovation Center Armenia Launches a Unique Regional Program for Startups

YEREVAN, 12 DECEMBER, ARMENPRESS.Microsoft Innovation Center Armenia (MIC) with three other MIC-s in the world was selectedout of over 140 MIC-s worldwide to launch a unique regional startup acceleration program for early stage startups which will connect entrepreneurs to resources and provide them support in validating their ideas, building viable solutions and exposing their products to global markets. Powered by Microsoft and VentureHive the MIC Pre-Accelerator program is the first one in Armenia and in the region where every good idea should have a shot at viability by having access to the essential tools, resources, and expertise.

What is MIC Pre-Accelerator?

Startups are the cornerstone of innovative economy and job-creation. However entrepreneurship entails risks and uncertaintiesin building the next big thing like Google or Facebook with limited resources. Nurturing a brilliant idea into a successful business is all about the execution and having the necessary skills. Developing an effective business model, building a strong team and culture, software development, building intuitive UX design, pitching to investors are only some of these skills. Surrounded by experienced mentors, advisors and like-minded peers, and provided access to global resources and knowledge-drivers, early stage startups will master their skills and embrace success. This thriving and fast moving environment is what MIC Pre-Accelerator offers to the selected teams and startups.

What will you get out of the program?

MIC Pre-Accelerator program utilizes a 12 week intensive program which provides the selected teams with mentorship, business and technology trainings, as well as with an access to resources and support from the international community for transforming the idea and concept into a strong and marketable product. The program offers a top-notch curriculum of highly practical workshops and training sessions, and consistent mentoring from a vetted network of local and international entrepreneurs and experts. Participant teams and startups receive access to a collaborative working space and facilities in the MIC Armenia office. During the program the teams will gain extensive exposure to local and international investors to inject the initial seed funding into their startup. The program will culminate in the MIC DEMO WEEK in April 2015, where a global audience will witness the product demonstrations and startups will receive feedback from successful entrepreneurs and experts.

Who Can Participate

MIC Pre-Accelerator targets ambitious teams and early-stage startups and an ability to be coached and to take feedback for an ultimate goal of fast execution and product validation. We give the biggest importance to the founding team and their commitment to their startup. On top of that it is vital that the idea is an innovative and disruptive web or mobile solution which addresses a real need. Throughout the program the teams should commit over 40 hours per week to the program activities to cultivate their concept into a prototype or a minimum viable product.

How can the startups apply?

The startups should fill in an online application form by December 29 after which each application will be evaluated in order to select and involve the best startups in the program. Additionally on December 12 at 18.30and on December 24 at 18.30MIC Armenia is organizing an introductory session at MIC Armenia office to share more awesome and interesting information about the program, application and selection processes, and more.