EXAMINING CONNECTIVITY WITHIN THE STARTUP ECOSYSTEM

The importance of startups cannot be overstated. Think about the 2015 movie Steve Jobs, where a brief flashback scene reveals two entrepreneurs-to-be working from a small garage to create something the world had never seen before. Be it Facebook, Google, or Microsoft, all multinational corporations were, at some point, small home-based companies that started with a simple idea.

In an increasingly interconnected world, startups now have the power to direct and drive conversation and agendas that hold themselves, governments, and larger organizations accountable to a broader mandate. Putting them at the center of an interdependent financial ecosystem means that they are well placed to take stock of the health of wider systems and drive more sustained engagement. Interdependence is worth considering

In the Middle East, the pandemic forced people to let go of the 9-to-5 grind and gave them the flexibility to work from home, which increased their reliance on technology. As a result of this “overnight” technological shift, tech-based startups in the region started to thrive.

The pandemic has also brought to light the interdependence of areas of industry. Where retail, tourism, and F&B industries suffered, the tech sector boomed. This explains why the Middle East is now allocating $60m for over 100 new startups.

The pandemic’s impact has reinforced the interdependence of economic sectors. It is prompting startups to re-evaluate and re-examine their interconnectivity with other entities and come up with new ways to implement solutions. Microsoft for Startups is still leading the way

When it comes to supporting startups, Microsoft for Startups leads the way (and it will probably continue doing so!). The company’s innovative digital platforms and solutions help startups navigate their way through development by acting both as supplier and facilitator. By pushing entrepreneurs to “achieve more,” Microsoft for Startups can add real value—beyond just providing retail space for cloud vending.

By providing cost-effective office and data management solutions, Microsoft for Startups is enabling entrepreneurs to focus on the big picture without worrying about the mundane, administrative tasks. The organization is also creating a space where startups can connect with entrepreneurs, ESO’s, investors, funders, students, and friends to secure additional funding and build lasting connections. Connecting the dots across the network

Through coaching and sharing of information, Microsoft for Startups is helping startups expand their horizons. The organization not only facilitates journeys, but also assists regions with boosting their revenues. This type of mentoring is connecting startups with the right players—universities, healthcare organization, government entities, and corporates to establish a web of arteries feeding a wider economic system where sustainability and profitability coexist.

Using machine learning and AI, startups are in a unique position to create and promote an agenda with a collective impact. They are spearheading goal-oriented work that can improve the whole ecosystem.

Thanks to this type of interconnectivity, the next ‘game-changing’ organization may originate in the Middle East, not Silicon Valley!