Today we’re announcing tools to make building AI solutions easier within Microsoft for Startups. With Build with AI, founders gain access to flexible templates designed to accelerate the creation and deployment of AI solutions. Additionally, we’re unveiling a Microsoft for Startups AI assistant in private preview*, a tool that provides support at every stage of the startup journey.
At Microsoft, we understand the importance of experimentation, especially when developing something new. However, we also know that experimentation can be costly, particularly for startup teams. That’s why we launched a Microsoft for Startups program aimed at supporting founders every step of the way. We help founders accelerate startup growth with free access to generative AI models, up to $150,000 in Azure credits to be used toward Azure AI, and expert guidance from real people. Any startup founder, even those with just an idea, can apply to Microsoft for Startups and get the technology, tools, and resources they need to prototype, build, and ship their solution.
As Microsoft Build, our flagship developer conference, gets underway in Seattle this week, we extend our thanks to the startups advancing AI innovation. Today, Nixtla, Bria, and Gretel Labs, all part of the Microsoft for Startups program, made significant announcements. Nixtla introduces its model available as Models-as-a-Service (MaaS) in preview, while Bria and Gretel Labs, also part of this program, are set to launch their models soon.
Streamline AI Development with Build with AI
Today we’re excited to introduce Build with AI, a Microsoft for Startups experience that provides developers with access to a curated set of flexible templates that make creating and using AI solutions faster and easier. With these templates, founders can quickly create and launch AI solutions tailored to their startup’s needs, saving them time and resources.
When clicking on these templates, they open in their development tool of choice and give everything needed to understand, edit, and deploy them. They even include tips for customizing and troubleshooting. There are four custom AI templates, each designed for common startup situations:
- Adding ChatGPT to an app
- Connecting ChatGPT to an app’s data using Python
- Connecting ChatGPT to an app’s data using JavaScript
- Creating a ChatGPT plugin
Introducing the Microsoft for Startups AI Assistant
Once accepted into Microsoft for Startups, founders can access the AI assistant through the top navigation bar or homepage shortcuts. The dedicated AI assistant is available to support users and answer questions about program resources, Azure, Microsoft Learn content, and account support.
Once engaged, the assistant opens a chat window with recommended questions or prompts for users to ask their own. With these tools, founders can work more efficiently, giving them more time to focus on what matters most: building and growing their business.
At Microsoft, we’re committed to empowering startup founders on their AI journey. With today’s announcement, we aim to streamline AI development and provide comprehensive support at every stage of the startup journey. Microsoft for Startups is open to all. Apply now to access the tools and resources you need to bring your ideas to life, with no funding required.
*The Microsoft for Startups AI assistant is currently in private preview and available in select regions.
