BizSpark worth it ?

Question

http://blogs.msdn.com/somasegar/archive/2009/06/19/microsoft-bizspark-serving-15-000-startups-and-counting.aspx

Any recommandation ?

Answer 1

I heard about this a while back and thought that the "Network Partner" requirement was a little weird. Now, you don't have to do that. You can make your request directly to Microsoft without a network partner.

I think the network partner idea is good but it's poorly implemented. They do nothing to help introduce startups to partners that are willing to help.

I went ahead and signed up for the service a few weeks ago. You basically get a full MSDN subscription for free. That means you can get legitimate versions of Visual Studio, Expression, even operating systems for free.

I find it very helpful to have access to various Windows operating systems so I can test my software (I run a software startup, not a web startup) on various platforms.

After 3 years you just pay $100.

I would say, yes, it's worth it.

Answer 2

I know several people enrolled in this program. As long as you meet the requirements it seems like a good deal. 1. The startup must be less than three years old, 2. The startup company's revenue must be less than $1 million, 3. If the startup goes public, you are out of the program.

You do have to pay a $100 program fee but that is not due until you exit the program.