The BizSpark program is a new global initiative designed to speed up the success of early stage startup companies by connecting them to partners in the network who can provide mentorship, guidance and resources.

The program aims to convert the entrepreneurs' ambitions into successful businesses, and to foster innovation and entrepreneurialism. It provides startups with software, support and visibility at a time when this help is most valuable and least affordable -- the first three years. There are minimal criteria from participating companies and no up-front costs.

A partnership between Brock, Niagara College and numerous government agencies, nGen is attempting to channel creative energies in the multimedia industry into a cluster of successful companies.

To be eligible for the Microsoft BizSpark Program, startups must be actively engaged in development of a software-based product or service that is a core piece of their business model, have been in business less than three years, and have less than $1 million in revenue.