Microsoft IDEAS software startups web 2.0-style

The difference between these startups and any Web 2.0 parody of brands is that a vast majority of these software startup actually generate cash. On the WWW, eCommerce companies put aside, the bulk of services generate zero revenues. In the so-called Web 2.0 world, only market leaders like Meetic, LinkedIn, Facebook and MySpace are profitable – which is not the case with software publishers in general, software being the one industry amongst its peers with the highest row margins.
A few stats about these startups:
- all segments of the software industry represented (digital entertainment, enterprise software, mobility, robotics, SaaS and…Web 2.0)
- an average growth rate of 300%, some of these startups even topping 1000% figures (Miyowa, Excentive, etc.)
- 2 failures out of 50+ companies (4% mortality ratio: extremely low for early stage companies)
- about half of these software ventures have raised series A for an average financing of 3m euros (4m USD) with top-tier venture capital shops
I’m keeping internationalization figures for myself – but I’m telling you, it’s very impressive. More info about the Microsoft IDEAS program aimed at enhancing the expansion of high potential software startups right here.
Before I wrap this post up, which French software startups are to join IDEAS next? We’re opened to all recommendations and I’ll be glad to answer any question regarding this program.
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Interesting article. Thank you for highlighting the MSFT focused start-ups in the Web 2.0 world.
- David Gearhart
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