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LEAP Gets Free Microsoft Product Access To Tech Startups

LANSING -- There's now another reason for startup businesses in the Lansing area to use the Lansing Economic Area Partnership's new "front door for entrepreneurs."

LEAP Wednesday announced a relationship with tech giant Microsoft Corp. to represent its BizSpark program, under which businesses that meet the required criteria are given free access to all Microsoft products for three years.

The Microsoft BizSpark program helps technology startups succeed by providing them access to Microsoft software development tools and connecting the startups to key industry investors.

In order to qualify,a startup must be privately held, less than three years old, making less than $1 million in annual revenue, and is working to develop technology.

"The New Economy Division of LEAP is working hard every day to bring programs like BizSpark to the innovators in our region who need them," said LEAP president and CEO Bob Trezise. "This program will put us on the map with other big players around the country offering business startup support. Microsoft BizSpark is jus one of the dozen or more startup programs LEAP intends to provide to the entire region as part of our new programming.

Added Jeff Smith, co-director of the New Economy Division of LEAP: "Having access to this software through BizSpark can really give growing businesses in Greater Lansing an edge. That is why LEAP is here, to assist these startups in making these connections."

If your startup fits the criteria listed or you would like more information on the program, contact LEAP at info@leapinc.biz or visit www.leapinc.biz/BizSpark.php.

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