City of Long Beach and Microsoft form a ‘Digital Alliance’

Last night the Long Beach City Council agreed to collaborate with the Microsoft Corporation to bring Digital Alliance programs to the City and its residents.  Partnering with local governments, Microsoft provides staff expertise and capacity building workshops designed to inspire young people as well as entrepreneurs.

“This new partnership is part of our commitment to creating a tech culture and economy in Long Beach,” said Mayor Robert Garcia.  “Microsoft is a global leader in innovation and I’m excited that they are going to leverage their expertise and talent to support workforce and economic development programs for local residents and students.”

Currently, two types of events are proposed in Long Beach: Digi Camps and a BizSpark session.  Digi Camps, which offer separate sessions for girls and boys, give kids a chance to take on technology challenges through small-group work, interact with Microsoft executives, and learn more about technology-related careers.The BizSpark session will serve local entrepreneurs and demonstrate how technology can simplify everyday tasks, increase their productivity, reduce business operations costs, and grow their business.

“By combining the numerous digital and training assets of Microsoft with the Mayor and City of Long Beach’s focus on education and investing in the technology sector, we know that this relationship will empower the citizens of Long Beach to realize their full potential,” said Tori Locke, General Manager for Microsoft’s State and Local Government business. “Microsoft is excited to support the City in its efforts to create more economic development and educational resources for the businesses and youth in Long Beach.”

The City and Microsoft will determine the best dates and locations for the events.  Once planned, up to 100 girls, 100 boys, and 200 local business owners will be able to participate.