Microsoft Presents '100x100x100' Programme for B2B Startups in India

On Monday, Microsoft announced the launch of a "100x100x100" programme aiming at the B2B startups in India.

Under the latest initiative, Microsoft aims to bring together 100 companies and 100 "early and growth" startups that have "enterprise-ready solutions" to deal. The companies which are participating will promise to spend $100,000 in the next 18 months on the solutions that are offered by the SaaS (Software as a Service) startups. Right now, more than 50 SaaS startups are part of the programme.

In a release, Microsoft said that the initiative would aim at helping enterprises accelerate their transition from conventional computing to modern digital platforms via SaaS solutions. The startups which are part of the programme will be given access to "speed-contracting sessions with prospective customers at Microsoft industry and customer events."

Anant Maheshwari, President, Microsoft India, said, "India has one of the largest B2B SaaS startup ecosystems in the world, and it's growing exponentially. This initiative will help build scale and create amazing opportunities for startups. Businesses can now fast-track their digital journeys through easy adoption of enterprise-grade solutions. We're excited to see the outcomes of these partnerships."

The announcement was made soon after Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella began his three-day visit to India. On his first day of the trip to India, Nadella addressed a "Future Decoded" event in Mumbai where he spoke about the necessity for a "digital transformation."

As per the Microsoft website, "Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella will share his vision for the future of technology and how Indian organizations can lead in an era of digital transformation."