Microsoft, teaming up with TechStars, has launched Kinect Accelerator

Last month, Microsoft announced it would be launching a program for more established businesses to develop commercial uses for Kinect for Windows. Now, Microsoft, teaming up with TechStars, has launched Kinect Accelerator, a program for startups with ideas for commercial applications using Kinect's motion- and voice-sensing technologies.

The 10 companies will each receive an investment of $20,000, an Xbox development kit, the Windows Kinect software development kit, office space, the resources of BizSpark (Microsoft's program to aid startups), technical training and support, and mentorship from entrepreneurs, investors and Microsoft executives, according to Microsoft's posting. The program uses startup accelerator TechStars' mentoring method. According to the program rules, in exchange for the program and seed funding, TechStars will receive six percent equity in each of the companies chosen, in the form of common stock.

Microsoft does not retain equity in the participating companies, nor does it retain intellectual property developed during the program. Microsoft has announced a new initiative that will provide a number of developers with the tools and resources to create business-focused programs for its motion-controlled Kinect hardware. The Kinect AcceleratorFinalists will receive $20,000, an Xbox development kit, the Windows Kinect SDK and office space in Seattle, Washington, along with technical support and mentorship from Microsoft executives and investors.

The Kinect Accelerator program is part of Microsoft's push for Kinect to be part of the business world.--Microsoft and TechStars are hoping to turn the creativity and momentum associated with the Kinect into some functioning startups. The goal is “to create businesses that leverage the Kinect for Xbox or Windows.” What’s good for the Kinect is good for Microsoft.