One of the results of the Web 2.0 outburst is a realization of the locked hidden potential of the ambitious, talented and experienced brains; in other words, technology enthusiasts; to venture out on their own. And, if money is a concern which comes in the way of creation of the next killer software product or the next hot digital media service; the vision of being a garage entrepreneur once again seems a wise thing to do. The challenge here lies in the synergy of the back-end engineers with the front-end professionals at the time of establishing a ‘Start-Up’.
The word ‘StartUp‘ in itself has become such a big craze (I dare not utter the word ‘fad’ here) that even companies like Big Blue ala IBM have launched a new initiative enabling start-ups access its marketing skills and software tools at no cost. Yes, we all can say Cheers to IBM for being such considerate about the individuals who are absolute no-bodys’, when you compare them vis-a-vis IBM.
The Start-Ups can get help in free-of-cost access to industry-specific technologies in a cloud computing environment, along with sales, marketing & technical skills. And, if you have the slightest of brains, then you know – Word ‘Free’ sells like hot-cakes in Digital Media Space & more-so for a Start-Up. I would not sound immature in already acknowleding the fact that Start-Ups all over India would have already started being appreciative of IBM’s initiative. This ‘Digital help’ from the Big Blue is in actuality under the purview of their ‘Global Entrepreneur Initiative’ and a press statement was released on the same occasion which read as – “IBM invests more than $6 billion per annum in research with more than 3,000 people in eight labs around the world. These start-ups are selected through venture capital companies as well as PE funds“.
Wondering, How StartUps will be benefitted?
The Start-Up owner when given access to free help from IBM feels confident and the same is very helpful for him in saving his hard earned money. Plus, getting it associated with the IBM branded tag can only help in things becoming better from good. Off-course, this is before a StartUp seeks Venture Funding.
And, What’s in store for IBM to come out with such an initiative ? The Answer here is simple. Re-Creating one’s “Brand Value” over and over again in the Tehcnology & Digital Media space is what pays off for companies. And guess, IBM is no exception.
Off-late, it was becoming strategically important for companies who are in itself, giants of the business to do something, or let’s say start an initiative aimed at a country like India, where every one knows, lies hidden potential. Globally speaking, initiatives like this have happened before and here is such an example where AOL established USD 10 Million as ‘Venture-Fund’ for local start-ups.
So, if you have that extra money in your pocket, and willing to invest it into a start-up; go ahead, because IBM is there for you. And, eventually, you might figure in either the Upcoming StartUps in India or the Most Killer StartUp. Sure, you won’t mind both of them. And, who knows, you might be working on the next ‘Google’ in your garage too.
Note the Point ??
