Microsoft Malta and the University recently signed a memorandum of understanding for an alliance between the Microsoft Innovation Centre and the University’s Business Incubator, called Takeoff.

The agreement was signed by Microsoft Malta country manager Adrianna Zammit and University rector Juanito Camilleri and is in line with the vision shared by both parties – which seeks to foster knowledge transfer in technology and business skills through training, workshops, software product testing, demonstrations and through providing logistical infrastructure for innovation-driven micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in the ICT sector.

“The understanding seals the University as an active and prime partner of our centre, where we will be providing working space, hardware, software and more training opportunities for programme tenants,” said Ms Zammit.

Prof. Camilleri said the aim of the Takeoff facility and programme was to deliver a tailored package of benefits and guidance to entrepreneurs from inside and outside of the University that will allow them to transform their ideas into market- and investor-ready ventures.

“The alliance with Microsoft Malta broadens the resources and support provided through Takeoff by connecting start-ups to Microsoft’s worldwide network of Innovation Centres specialising in access to resources, experts and facilities for collaboration and skills development,” Prof. Camilleri explained.