Nokia, Microsoft invest Rs.118 crore to train developers

Nokia and Microsoft Corp. are jointly investing Rs.118 crore (18 million euros) in a university programme to create mobile applications for Symbian and Windows Phone.

The fund will support the newly established AppCampus mobile application development programme at Aalto University in Finland, during the next three years.

"The AppCampus programme has been set up to foster the creation of innovative mobile applications for the Windows Phone ecosystem and in addition, Nokia platforms, including Symbian and Series 40, to create a new generation of self-sustaining mobile start-ups."

Kicking off in May 2012, the AppCampus programme is intended to attract thousands of application proposals from students and entrepreneurs from all over the world. Aalto University will provide its premises, coaching services, and access to both academic and business networks for budding app developers.

Mentored by veterans in the mobile industry, programme participants will be given insights and business coaching to help them commercialise their ideas while retaining the full intellectual property rights for their innovations, Microsoft said.

"We are proud to announce this new programme, which will enable new and existing developers to create next-generation mobile apps and unique user experiences," said Kai Öistämö, executive vice president, Nokia Corp. "The partnership will allow developers to ideate and monetise business opportunities globally, via both Windows Phone Marketplace and Nokia Store."

Mobile entrepreneurs can apply for grants within the AppCampus programme beginning in May 2012.