Sun Startup essentials coming to Africa

Sun startup essentials is a programme run by sun to assist startups get their business off the ground with IT infrastructure within the shortest possible time at the lowest cost possible. I came across the programme a few months ago, and was wondering why Africa seems to have been left out, the programme was not available in a single country in Africa (See image below). Africa always seems to be left out which is quite infuriating!

I decided to enquirer about availability in Africa and South Africa and after a few emails back and forth with Laura at Sun, they have decided to launch the programme here in South Africa. The response from sun and their openness to suggestion is great, and it seems like they are really interested in offering the programme in emerging market economies. I look forward to seeing it being launched in other countries in Africa.

So what do you get for being part of the programme?

• JavaFX
• Operating systems (Solaris, Linux, Windows)
• Optimized AMP stack for solaris
• MySQL Enterprise Trial
• NetBeans
• CoolTools
• Discount on Servers
• Discount on Storage
• Free support
• Free training
• Discount on training
• Discount on hosting

What are the requirements?

In order to qualify for the Sun Startup Essentials program, your company must meet the following criteria.

• been in business for 6 years or less
• a maximum of 150 employees, including any affiliates
• be based in South Africa
• a verifiable company presence (company name, street address [no post office boxes allowed], etc.

So head on over to the startup essentials South Africa site to apply

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