Myth: You need to be on Microsoft technology stack to be a part of the Microsoft Azure Accelerator

The Microsoft Accelerator will take in 50 new startups in 2013 through various batches and is inviting applications for its second batch. Microsoft Accelerator for Windows Azure (India) is a 4-month program aimed at helping early stage startups doing big things in Cloud, Internet, and Mobile. Microsoft will provide a state-of-the-art workspace, elite mentors from the industry, and all the tools we think you will need to create the most successful startup.

The Microsoft Accelerator for Windows Azure was announced in India last July and had taken in 11 startups for its first batch. The Bangalore based accelerator is the second the software giant has opened under its banner since the launch of its accelerator in Israel last March (read our interview with Accelerator CEO, Mukund Mohan).

MS Accelerator

During the program, Microsoft offers startups with office space, design, PR resources, mentors and other facilities. They also track the evolution of early stage startups closely using in house tools.

One of the myths around Microsoft Accelerator is that the startup needs to be on Microsoft stack to apply for the accelerator. Actually not.

Pradeep Banavara of Microsoft talks about the biggest myth:

Plus, Microsoft Accelerator doesn’t take any stake in the incubated startups and importantly, does not retain IP developed during the program. The IP developed by a participating company is retained by the company.

How are the startups selected?

For us, it’s first about the team. Because of this reason, we’re less likely to accept single founder companies. The best things you can do to strengthen your application are:

Round out your team with business, technical, and other necessary skills
Make progress on your prototype or product and reference it in the application
Show us you’ve really thought about your business and have done something about it

Watch this video where the jury members talk about the accelerator process