The new AppCampus program, as billed, is designed to foster the creation of fresh mobile apps, using the University's hand in supporting new businesses to create a "generation of self-sustaining mobile startups" eager to work on Microsoft and Nokia's platforms.
Fanning Finland
Kicking off in May, the three partners are looking to reach out to students and entrepreneurs in particular, with Aalto University to provide premises and coaching services, while Windows Phone Marketplace and Nokia Store will be used to push the apps that result.
"AppCampus offers an unprecedented opportunity for entrepreneurs to put their ideas into practice and create world-class mobile products," said Microsoft's western Europe president Klaus Holse.
"We want to turn a new leaf in the mobile industry and foster Finlands role as a centre of excellence for mobile technology.
"Such investment into early-stage concepts has rarely been seen in this sector, and this demonstrates how highly both Nokia and Microsoft value Finnish mobile expertise."
Opening windows
Microsoft and Nokia will of course have a vested interest in the fruits of the program, with bolstering Windows Phone Marketplace's library a key focus for both parties.
The two companies are nonetheless keen to highlight what an opportunity a free run on the three platform's combined userbase would be for a studio just starting out.
Indeed, the program will also hand participants insight from 'industry veterans', who will mentor those taking part and provide business coaching to help "commercialise their ideas".
"We are proud to announce this new program, which will enable new and existing developers to create next-generation mobile apps and unique user experiences," added Nokia executive VP Kai Öistämö.
"The partnership will allow developers to ideate and monetise business opportunities globally, via both Windows Phone Marketplace and Nokia Store."
More details on the program can be found on the newly launched AppCampus website.
[source: Microsoft]
