Elly Yates-Roberts |
Microsoft and Accenture have expanded Project Amplify across Asia Pacific, where they will support 33 start-ups and social enterprises that focus on social impact and sustainability in the region.
The collaboration aims to advance both firms’ commitment to United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. They will give participating start-ups access to technology and expertise and help them test proof-of-concepts to expand the social benefit of solutions.
“Social enterprises face many challenges, including access to technology and innovation expertise to scale their solutions,” said Sanjay Podder, managing director at Accenture. “By leveraging the technology experience and networks of both Accenture and Microsoft, we can help bridge this gap. As these social enterprises expand their reach, we hope to see significant improvement in the status of vulnerable groups in our communities that need support in sustainability, healthcare, education and agriculture.”
Start-ups included in the programme were selected based on how their product or service can “address a significant social or environmental problem and have shown early signs of impact”, says Microsoft. They include: Docturnal, an Indian healthcare provider that uses screening to detect disease; TapEffect, a social enterprise that is working to improve access to clean water in Cambodia; and DIBIZ in Singapore, which is helping manufacturers and farmers follow sustainable practices.
“We’re committed to addressing some of Asia’s most pressing challenges, including expanding access to healthcare, education and finance,” said Ahmed Mazhari, president of Microsoft Asia. “Many of the social enterprises in Project Amplify are focused on solving these issues, and we’re honoured to support them with the technology, expertise and ecosystem they need to scale and make meaningful change. I am confident that equipped with the right tools and support from Microsoft, these start-ups can grow and accelerate Asia’s future as an engine for global innovation, while driving societal progress.
“Collaborating with Accenture will help turn lifelong passions of mission-driven enterprises into reality and deliver greater positive change for millions of people in Asia Pacific.”