DotCom Incubator Program Provides Comprehensive Support for Early-Stage Startups

Strategic Insights -

The DotCom Incubator program, sponsored by IBM and Conxion Corporation, is a six-month initiative that offers a comprehensive package of business training, services, and internet technology infrastructure to 25 selected startups. The program aims to accelerate the development of early-stage Internet startups, allowing them to prove their concept, raise capital, and get to market quickly.

Key Takeaways:

  • The program provides a high-quality internet infrastructure, including hardware, software, hosting, training, and support, valued at approximately $1 million, at no cost for six months.
  • The incubator is designed to accelerate early-stage development, allowing startups to move quickly from concept to market.
  • The program is sponsored by IBM (NYSE: IBM) and Conxion Corporation, a Tier 1 Internet Service Provider.
  • Garage.com, an early-stage venture financing firm, has been chosen to select 25 startups to participate in the program.
  • The selection process is based on four key success factors: strength of team, market opportunity, stage of development, and need for a long-term, first-class internet infrastructure.
  • Vignette, Servicesoft Technologies, and Mercury Interactive are technology providers offering software and services to participants in the incubator program.
  • The program includes in-depth technical training from the program's sponsors and technology providers to develop Web-based businesses.
  • Upon completion of the incubation period, the startups are eligible for special discounts from some of the sponsors and technology providers.

Statistics:

  • The program provides internet infrastructure valued at approximately $1 million for six months.
  • The incubator has selected 25 startups to participate in the program.
  • The program will begin in mid-January 2000, with an all-day kick-off event for the selected startups.
  • The program is available to early-stage Silicon Valley-based Internet startups.
  • The incubators' technology services will be activated on December 1, 2000.

Sources:

  • PRNewswire, "Garage.com and IBM Launch DotCom Incubator Program" (December 1, 2000)
  • IBM Press Release, "IBM and Conxion Corporation Launch DotCom Incubator Program" (December 1, 2000)
  • Garage.com Web site, "DotCom Incubator Program" (http://www.garage.com/dotcom.shtml)