Microsoft Canada Announces Creation of Blue Sky Award Recognizing ISV Innovation
Inaugural award recognizes significant contributions made by the technology community
MISSISSAUGA, ON – March 17, 2008 - Microsoft Canada Co. is pleased to announce the creation of an ISV Innovation Award – the Blue Sky Award – recognizing exciting, cutting-edge solutions developed on the Microsoft-based platform. The award is open to ISVs yet to achieve Certified or Gold Certified Partners status. In developing this award, Microsoft Canada is helping to recognize innovation by creating a forum for leading Canadian software developers to showcase their outstanding achievements.
People are the lifeblood of today’s businesses – their passion and ideas have the power to part clouds and create a world of limitless opportunity. The Blue Sky Award is designed to celebrate their innovation and the leading-edge applications they inspire.
"Independent software developers lead the cutting edge of technology innovation in Canada," says Mark Relph, Vice President of the Developer & Platform Evangelism, Microsoft Canada. "The Blue Sky award allows Microsoft to provide ISVs with the opportunity to showcase their outstanding achievements and to recognize their efforts."
Entrants will be judged on the unique use of technology, the real-life challenge they are solving and the market potential. The winner will receive a customized engagement plan to support their software development, which includes:
| • | Software development resources |
| • | Business development resources |
| • | Public awareness campaign |
| • | Exposure to other Microsoft-based resources both in Canada and Redmond, including access to senior executives, developer evangelists and partner account managers |
“We are pleased that Microsoft is creating awareness around our desire to innovate and contribute to Canadian society and the economy. As a Microsoft ISV, we have seen the many benefits of developing on the Microsoft-based platform,” says Julian Spillane, CEO, Frozen North Productions Inc.
About the Award
For more information on the Blue Sky Award please visit: http://www.microsoft.com/canada/bluesky or click here to view the award information video.
About Microsoft Canada
Established in 1985, Microsoft Canada Co. is the Canadian subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation (Nasdaq "MSFT") the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. Microsoft Canada provides nationwide sales, marketing, consulting and local support services in both French and English. Headquartered in Mississauga, Microsoft Canada has 10 regional offices across the country dedicated to empowering people through great software - any time, any place and on any device. Visit Microsoft Canada's web site at www.microsoft.ca.
