21 Dec S01:E19: Jim Brisimitzis and What Microsoft Can Do For Your Startup
We’re back at Quinn’s Pub for another round of Seattle’s most unique burgers. Chef Scott whips up a Korean version of Quinn’s Signature Burger, and joining to help us devour this ginger-infused delight is Jim Brisimitzis, General Manager of the Microsoft Startup Program. Jim is an “intrepreneur”, an entrepreneur inside of a large company. He and his team work on finding a better way for Microsoft customers to deploy cloud solutions for their business. What started off as a modest idea eventually became Microsoft’s Cloud Platform System.
Most people don’t know that Microsoft offers a score of resources and opportunities for startups. For example, BizSpark gives entrepreneurs the chance to use a cloud based software for free for three years, the only requirements being that you’re company is less than five years old and has a revenue of under $1-million. In addition to a technology platform, BizSpark offers access to Microsoft as a mentor. The goal is to get your product to market. Microsoft will be there for you every step of the way, including during the capital gaining phase. Microsoft Accelerator and Microsoft Ventures Fund provide startups with potential access to funding.
After working with several startups and entrepreneurs from all walks of life, Jim has learned a thing or two. The key takeaway for him has been that no matter what you’re doing, you have got to have passion. A defining factor in a fledgling company’s success is not just its product, but what the entrepreneur is willing to put in to reach their goals. Many budding businesses hear the word “no” more than anything else, but sometimes no can be validation that you’re on the right path.
If you think you’re ready to move your idea forward and are looking for support, head over to Microsoft.com/bizspark to see what the program can do for you!
Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/mJBfLqBjQUI
Learn more about our guest:
- Jim Brisimitzis
- Microsoft
- www.bizspark.microsoft.com
On the menu:
- Quinn’s Pub
- Korean version of Quinn’s Burger with seasonal veggie tempura
- www.quinnspubseattle.com
Tasty quote to chew on:
- “Passion for what you’re building matters.”
- “With a great idea and solid execution, miracles can happen.”
Food for thought:
- Startups can utilize Bizspark to get access to free Microsoft software for 3 years.
- Bizspark is more than just free tech, Microsoft will actively mentor startups and help develop their project.
- Microsoft can help your startup connect with investors, and they may even become an investor themselves with the Microsoft Ventures Fund.
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