Over the years, Microsoft has opened more than 100 Innovation Centers around the world to engage with startups, raise technological skill levels, and boost innovation. In the US, the company opened its first in 2014 in Miami, which was followed by a second one in Atlanta a year later. But Microsoft has just announced that the company is teaming with venture capital fund SeventySix Capital, innovation hub University City Science Center, and real estate investment and development company Wexford Science & Technology to open a new MIC in Philadelphia this summer.
The new Innovation Center will also help Microsoft to enhance its regional presence, as 350 Microsoft employees are already working the company’s office in Malvern as well as in the Microsoft Store at King of Prussia Mall. Here are some additional details found in the press release:
Located on the ground floor of the Science Center’s corporate headquarters at 3711 Market Street, the MIC will be equipped with the latest Microsoft technology. Through a combination of programming and outreach activities, Microsoft – working closely with the Science Center and SeventySix Capital – will seek to spur economic development and create new opportunities for the local tech startup community. Further, the MIC will host activities that will bring underrepresented groups to greater awareness of and involvement with STEM activities and careers.
The MIC will first open its doors for the Democratic National Convention in July and will propose a number of programs and events that explore the intersection of technology and civic engagement. After the DNC, the MIC will be delivering a suite of technology and innovation focused programming that will offer the startup, entrepreneurial, academic and neighborhood communities access to Microsoft resources and expertise.
Microsoft Director of Modern Government in State and Local Government Solutions Group Jeff Friedman shared:
“We are thrilled to work with SeventySix Capital, the University City Science Center, and Wexford Science & Technology to bring technology and resources to the great city of Philadelphia. MICs are part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to empower developers and entrepreneurs, extending into local metro markets to help startups grow their business with technology and services such as cloud computing, developer tools, software and open source technologies.”
If you want to know more about what Microsoft Innovation Centers are doing around the world, feel free visit the dedicated website.
