Thanks,

My MicroISV is just starting out on a .net music product, and BizSpark seems like a really good fit for me.

From http://download.microsoft.com/download/4/d/4/4d41081a-d8d9-407a-9bae-5127e6e931ca/BizSpark%20Startup%20Program%20Guide.pdf:

How long can I participate in BizSpark?
For three years (renewed annually), unless the Startup goes public, is acquired by a company which does
not qualify for BizSpark, or fails to abide by BizSpark’s terms and conditions in the Program Materials.

3. re business in business, it says: “In business for less than 3 years[2], and
(this is the footnote: 2 Startups who are actively engaged in software development but have not yet completed the formalities of establishing a business are also eligible for entry into BizSpark.)

In your case the issue is moot (see #2:) but if it were not, I would say it’s open to interpretation – MSFT also says (see above) ” but have not yet completed the formalities of establishing a business” – so you can get in before you incorporate….

What Microsoft wants to promote is new startups using their stack, startups being (as far as I interpret it) that you have one code base you sell for money to many people. It doesn’t matter whether that codebase is compiled and run on a desktop or just runs on a server. But – and this case has come up several times: you’ve got to be selling SaaS or a product: custom developers/consultants/bespoke developers/freelancers/members of teams of big companies – you, AS SUCH, are not eligible. In other words, you’re a contractor, launching your own startup? Great – here you go. Contractor who plans to continue doing code for other people – best wishes, but no go.

I was wondering if you could help clarify what happens after the program ends.

I’m looking at their FAQ and it says, “Startups can continue to use the development tools they previously obtained through the program. If Startups wish to continue to receive updates to development tools, Startups can renew their MSDN subscription at usual rates and terms.”

So I assume that means after 3 years we can continue to use the software free-of-charge? And only if we decided to get updates do we need to pay the full price?

My main concern is that we incorporated about 2 years ago, so if we join, then we can only be in the program for 1 more year. And if we’re required to purchase the full license after the 3rd year then I need to budget accordingly.

* * *

Also, if you don’t mind another question, is the 3 year term based on when you incorporated or when you started to sell?

Because even though we incorporated last year, we didn’t begin to sell until this year.

Thanks for the help!

Otherwise, my company could be a perfect fit.

Re time limit when to jump on BizSpark – none that I know of. I can’t see a reason why Microsoft would do anything but improve/extend BizSpark as time goes by: they really want web apps on their stack.

Kam – Yes it does. Figuring that’s what, $3k a developer, that’s $12K you save right there. Email me at bob.walsh@47hats.com with the word BizSpark in the subject if you want to apply through me.

I’ve dug through the documentation, and also understand that VSTS is licensed per user … if we meet the criteria and have (4) developers, does that mean we qualify for (4) VSTS licenses through BizSpark?

I wanted to give you props for the Startup 101 session. I thought it was a great webcast series. In my opinion it is really nice to see Microsoft kickoff the BizSpark initiative right after the Startup 101 sessions. With that said I have a few questions for you.

Do you know what happens after three years? Can you still use the current software you had access to through the BizSpark program after the three year commitment runs out?

Do you think there will be a time limit towards jumping on the BizSpark initiative? Do you think this will stick around?

Thanks,
John