DreamSpark to BizSpark
Microsoft has a number of programs to help developers get the software they need to be successful students and businesses. The DreamSpark program is designed for students. The BizSpark program is designed for businesses. Together, they form a progression to help individuals in the academic space, then in the business space.
Students will find DreamSpark to be a compelling option as they learn about software development. The program provides free downloads of both operating systems AND development tools. These are the same tools used by professional software developers, and school labs. We are talking Windows 8.1 Professional and Visual Studio 2013 Ultimate. The program also provides a large number of other Microsoft titles typically found with MSDN subscriptions.
The DreamSpark program also provides student access to the Windows Store, where they can submit their own Windows Store Apps and Windows Phone Apps; and, the store sign-up fee is waved. Student Window Store apps can generate revenue at the same compensation levels as everyone else; which is an attractive avenue for students looking to earn money.
DreamSpark is only for academia. Once the student graduates, Microsoft has another path for individuals to access software and services. BizSpark is a program similar to DreamSpark, but with slightly more requirements. To qualify, your business has to be: actively developing software or apps, less than five years old, and make less than $1M annually.
Once accepted into the program, there are almost too many benefits to list. For starters, BizSpark provides access to a MSDN subscription. With this subscription, you can download operating systems, developer tools, and other great software. The MSDN subscription also provides $150/month credits for Microsoft Azure. One could literally build an entire business in the cloud with BizSpark.
Knowing about these two programs is especially advantageous for students. Individuals, or teams, can start thinking about building their own business, or startup, while in school. This will provide a natural and easy progression into the BizSpark program.
The plan is simple: Learn | Build | Be your own business.
Microsoft can help you reach your goals!