Digital Penang, Microsoft to empower startups, SMEs

Digital Penang, Microsoft to empower startups, SMEs

20 Sep 2022

• Collaboration in line with Penang’s Digital Transformation Masterplan
• Digital Penang to leverage Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub

Digital Penang has signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Microsoft Corp to drive digital transformation and build digital skills among local startups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), while empowering the developer scene in the state. 

In a statement, the tech giant said the collaboration is in line with Penang’s Digital Transformation Masterplan to develop a digitally engaged society.

To support the state of Penang’s goal of strengthening the local startup ecosystem, Digital Penang will leverage the Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub, it said.

The firm added that this collaboration is also in tandem with its recent initiative with Cradle Fund to provide startups and digital natives in Malaysia with a global platform to scale their innovations with the integration of the Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub within the MYStartup platform.

Additionally, Digital Penang and Microsoft will also explore collaborative opportunities to deliver digital skilling initiatives to SMEs in the state through the Microsoft Learn platform. 

This includes providing globally recognised certifications that affirm these SME owners’ digital competencies, Microsoft said.

To help drive more women participation in technology, Microsoft said it will also extend support to female developers through the Code; Without Barriers initiative.

Tony Yeoh, chief executive officer of Digital Penang said, “Our vision is to create a connected, creative and competitive society in Penang, and ensure that no one gets left behind as we accelerate our journey towards the digital economy.

“We are excited to embark on this journey with Microsoft to nurture local startups, SMEs, and the wider community with technology and digital skills to capture opportunities in the digital era.”

Meanwhile, managing director of Microsoft Malaysia, K Raman, said “We are thrilled to collaborate with Digital Penang to empower the local startup and SME ecosystem, in support of its goal to boost the State’s inclusive digital economy.

“Opportunities are abundant for startups, SMEs, and market disruptors in this digital era and we are glad to extend the Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub platform to startups and digital natives in Penang,” he said.

Raman said this will provide them with access to upskilling opportunities and mentorship, personalized technical guidance, along with Microsoft’s technologies and tools.

Source: Digital News Asia