MS opens innovation centre in Brisbane

Sidney Morning Herald reports.

The software giant will invest $3 million in the centre over the next three years, and will team up with local incubators and universities to accelerate the growth of software start-ups and small businesses in the state.

StartupSmart says the centre will focus on accelerating the growth of SMEs, start-ups and student entrepreneurs, with a focus on three key areas: skills, business development and connection to industry.

Sharon Schoenborn, Microsoft Australia state director for Queensland and the Northern Territory, says the centre reflects Microsoft's commitment to promoting innovation and growth.

“The centre will act as a hub of innovation for start-ups, partners, developers and students to exchange ideas, build on each other's strengths and translate those assets into greater success.”

Microsoft has said that up to 200 jobs will be created for Queensland companies during the three-year programme, iTWire notes.

“Young technology start-ups are the engine room of innovation and are critical to a healthy technology ecosystem. As chair of the QLD Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA), and as co-founder of a young, award-winning tech start-up in Brisbane, I am particularly excited by the Queensland Microsoft Innovation Centre,” said Maree Adshead, chair of the QLD AIIA.