Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1357762
1.4.2021 7 INTERVIEW accelerator to their goals. "At Corporate Identities, it has al- ways been about synergies. We hap- pen to handle a vast portfolio of pres- tigious names and brands in Malta and this has given us an enviable position to not only dream of the synergies we want to create but to actually create them," he adds. "Corporate Identities' relationship with Microsoft in Malta goes back to 2008 when Microsoft engaged us to handle all its media and public rela- tions requirements. Since then, our professional relationship kept grow- ing stronger. We were there when Mi- crosoft established its tangible pres- ence in Malta; we believed in its role in advancing Malta's information so- ciety and economy, and we are proud to have also contributed to Microsoft business growth in Malta and its con- tinued presence. ." "So, this is why today we are hon- oured with this new opportunity to be part of another important milestone in Microsoft's commitment towards Malta and its start-up scene. Person- ally, I am looking at this development as an achievement that cements the trust that this global brand has in us and in the services we offer," adds Jes- mond. One of the outcomes of this MoU will be a 'Microsoft for Startups' com- mittee which will have the participa- tion of key stakeholders and partners who will manage a strategy for the up- take of Microsoft for Startups in the country and to drive a strategy that positions Microsoft for Startups as a key enabler for the local start-up eco- system. "Microsoft has always been a part- ner-led company that thrives on the synergies created together with its partners who share its same vision through their passion and commit- ment. We are passionate about start- ups and we relate both to the chal- lenges they have to face as well as to their aspirations that drive them. We have been there too, and we know too well how important it is to have peo- ple and organisations supporting you with their expertise, their acquired knowledge but most importantly by believing in you. This is what we are willing to do with those start-ups who choose to approach us and can qualify for the programme. We are very confident that this 'Microsoft for Startups' collaboration will be a success." Microsoft's Startup programme fo- cuses on two crucial pillars namely: that of helping start-ups accelerate their growth by connecting them with partners and customers, and to give them access to the Company technol- ogy to build the platforms they want to build. "The concept is simple. Micro- soft helps start-ups innovate rapidly through its technology in a way that enables them to grow their company to go to market whilst ensuring that they remain committed to delivering sustainable and accessible solutions to all their customers." "In return, start-ups get to be part of an ecosystem of Microsoft-chosen start-ups from across 140 countries with the potential of tapping into the one in five top tier corporates in which Microsoft has a foothold." "The start-up ecosystem here in Mal- ta is a very healthy one. As Maltese, we happen to be very entrepreneurial in nature, we love challenging ourselves and we are also very resourceful. But this ecosystem is also healthy thanks to the amazing work being done by the various public and private-sector hubs and incubators that we have in Malta whose mission is that of assist- ing these start-ups succeed. I also acknowledge the assistance available through grants, loans, guarantees and tax credits, offered by Government and its various agencies." "Our aim is to facilitate the availabil- ity of technology and other resources from a leading technology multina- tional. I really believe that this col- laboration can truly succeed if we all work together," concluded Jesmond Saliba.