Within the framework of cooperation between the Innovation and Digital Development Agency (IDDA) and Microsoft, an important international development and support opportunity has been created for startups. IDDA has joined Microsoft’s “Microsoft for Startups Investor Network” international program. This collaboration will accelerate the integration of local startups into the global technology ecosystem, while also supporting their access to international markets, the development of innovative products, and their scaling.
Within the program, selected startups will be able to benefit from a wide range of technological and business opportunities provided by Microsoft. These include high-volume Azure cloud credits, access to Azure AI infrastructure and artificial intelligence services, use of products such as GitHub Enterprise, LinkedIn, and Visual Studio Enterprise, 24/7 technical support, as well as direct technical consultation sessions with Microsoft engineers. At the same time, startups will gain access to the international innovation ecosystem to support product development and global growth. As part of the collaboration, monthly evaluation and mentorship mechanisms with the participation of Microsoft representatives will also be implemented. This approach will enable startups to be guided more effectively at different stages of their development and to make sound technological and business decisions.
With these opportunities, the program aims to support startups during the product development stage, expand the application of artificial intelligence and cloud technologies, strengthen startups with investment attraction potential, and enhance their global competitiveness.
A special application mechanism has been created by IDDA for startups to participate in the program. Startups developing technology-based innovative products and services must first complete a registration form. At this stage, startups deemed suitable are provided with a referral code by IDDA. After obtaining the code, startups proceed to Microsoft’s application platform to complete the official registration process. The final application deadline is December 1, 2026.
Applications will be evaluated on a monthly basis jointly by IDDA and Microsoft representatives. Selections will be made at the end of each month from among the applicants, and it is expected that on average 40–50 startups per year will benefit from the credits and support opportunities offered by the program.
The evaluation will be conducted based on eligibility criteria defined by Microsoft. Key factors include the startup’s potential to attract investment or existing investment, product market traction and development stage, the innovative and technology-based nature of the solution, scalability of the product, and the potential use of Microsoft Azure and other technological solutions.