Redmond-based software company Microsoft has announced today the launch of WebsiteSpark Program, aimed at offering professional Web development and designer companies that have up to ten employees the possibility to join a partner network that will help them grow their businesses. Along with the new program, the software giant also announced the launch of Web Platform Installer 2.0 and the Windows Web Application Gallery 2.0, which should also drive the development of richer Web experiences.

The new WebsiteSpark Program, the company states, builds upon the success of the previous Spark programs, including Microsoft BizSpark and DreamSpark, and will deliver to Web professionals Microsoft software and solutions, as well as tools, training and support, to ensure that their businesses become successful. At the same time, the new initiative will also connect Web professionals and hosters with customers and partners, as well as with complementary technologies from other professionals. Those interested in joining the WebsiteSpark Program should head to this page.

“Developers are the lifeblood of our business, and we are wholly committed to ensuring their success,” said Bob Muglia, president of Microsoft’s Server and Tools Business division. “WebsiteSpark makes Microsoft’s Web development tools and support more accessible to developers and designers at small companies as they create inventive applications for the Web. Our third Spark program, WebsiteSpark furthers our commitment to ignite innovation among key communities and individuals.”

Through the WebsiteSpark Program, said Web development and design companies will have access to:
- Microsoft Web design and development tools (three licenses of Microsoft Visual Studio 2008 Professional Edition, two licenses of Microsoft Expression Web 3 and one license of Microsoft Expression Studio 3)
- Four processor licenses for production usage to Windows Web Server 2008 or R2 and as many licenses for production usage to Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Web Edition
- A third-party premium Web site control panel (DotNetPanel)

“Web development and design companies with up to 10 employees and owners can participate in the WebsiteSpark Program for three years with no up-front cost. There is only a $100 program offering fee, payable at exit, with no other costs or obligations.” Microsoft notes. Professional support and training will also be available for the participants, including a number of two technical support incidents for each company, community support, access to technical managed newsgroups on MSDN, and support for nontechnical issues. A WebsiteSpark marketplace that will be launched this fall will offer participants the possibility to make their products available to customers worldwide.

The Microsoft Web Platform Installer 2.0 can be downloaded from here.