RVC and IBM launch a program to support Russian IT-startups

IBM Corporation and RVC JSC signed a memorandum of co-operation aiming at the development of innovative entrepreneurship in Russia. To achieve this goal the IBM program Global Entrepreneur will be launched in Russia to help start-ups in the field of information technology to implement their projects.

Within the IBM Global Entrepreneur Program the companies can get free access to the IBM software and hardware, technical support for projects, personal advice and assistance in promoting the final product to the market.

The application forms for participation in the program can be submitted by the Representatives of startup companies implementing their projects in information and communication technologies, taking into account that: the company’s age is less than 5 years, the annual turnover is less than $10M; the project implementation involves the use of technical devices (e. g. sensors, transducers, video cameras), communication networks and means of analytics; prototype/demonstration of the proposed solution is desirable; the project must have the potential for the development in the international market.

IBM Global Entrepreneur’s initiative gives the start-up business a unique opportunity to receive comprehensive support to promote their products: resources, individual counseling and assistance in market promotion, - Andrey Tikhonov, the Director of IBM Sales in Russia and CIS noted. - IBM continues to invest in the development of the Russian economy’s innovative potential by launching this initiative in the Russian market jointly with RVC.

IBM is one of the world's largest transnational corporations engaged in manufacturing and supplying hardware and software, as well as IT and consulting services. The company’s market capitalization of $241.13B places it among the most expensive IT-companies.

Strategic computer technologies and software take up nearly a third of the portfolio funds established with RVC capital - Igor Agamirzyan, the CEO and chairman of RVC says. - The objective of our collaboration with IBM is to expand opportunities for innovative business development in Russia by providing international tools and services.