Doha, October 19 (QNA) - Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), a member of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, announced Monday a partnership with Microsoft to integrate the Microsoft for Startups program into its support ecosystem, giving eligible founders access to cloud computing and artificial intelligence technologies, technical expertise, and market access support.

QSTP said the partnership has positively impacted startup participation, with 105 incubated companies nominated for the program.

Of these, 47 have already begun benefiting from its offerings, up from 32 in August, reflecting growing interest across the innovation ecosystem.

Through the partnership, QSTP provides a dedicated pathway for startups to join the program, helping founders access the technologies and support needed to develop early-stage ventures and turn them into scalable products.

The program offers a comprehensive package, including USD 100,000 in credits for Microsoft Azure cloud services, potentially increasing to USD 200,000 over two years depending on usage.

It also provides access to AI infrastructure, GitHub Enterprise and Visual Studio Enterprise, alongside joint working sessions with specialist engineers for technical support and tools to help startups enter markets and reach customers and investors.

The potential value of Azure credits available to the 47 participating companies ranges from USD 4.7 million to USD 9.4 million, depending on usage and eligibility requirements.

These figures represent the maximum aggregate value available and do not constitute a guaranteed commitment to provide the full amounts.

Director of Business Development at QSTP Engineer Ahmed Al Saeed said the park's role was to create an enabling environment for entrepreneurs, provide expertise, and build partnerships that help transform their ideas into successful technology companies.

He said the partnership with Microsoft would enable founders in Qatar to develop their products and compete in global markets from day one, contributing to a knowledge-based economy and supporting the objectives of the Third National Development Strategy.

For his part, General Manager of Microsoft Qatar Ahmed Al Dandashi said Qatar had created an increasingly ambitious environment for entrepreneurs.

He noted that the partnership with QSTP brings the Microsoft for Startups program closer to entrepreneurs and equips them with practical tools to build, test and scale their products.

The participation of 47 companies and their initial use of the services, he added, turns ambitions into practical applications, helping transform local innovations into tangible solutions that support Qatar's drive to build a diversified, innovation-based economy.

QSTP plays a key role in supporting entrepreneurs across artificial intelligence, healthcare and biomedical technology, financial technology, sustainability, education and cybersecurity, from idea validation through incubation, expansion and investment. (QNA)