Plug and Play Tech Center and Global Venture Alliance Launch Startup Accelerator in Moscow

June 25, 2012 - PRLog -- Plug and Play Tech Center, in partnership with Global Venture Alliance (GVA) and the Government of Moscow, today announces the launch of their Russian acceleration program, Plug and Play Moscow. The accelerator is designed to identify, support and grow Russian-­‐based tech startups through six-­‐month programs, raise investment funds and also provide a launchpad for international companies looking to expand in Russian markets. The acceleration programs will kick off in Russia and continue in the Silicon Valley, where promising startups will get a chance to be funded by Plug and Play and other investors.

“Supporting entrepreneurs is Plug and Play’s top priority,” says Jupe Tan, Vice President of International Operations for Plug and Play Tech Center. “The goal of Plug and Play Moscow is to accelerate Russian entrepreneurs by connecting them with the Silicon Valley’s resources and world-­‐famous ecosystem. We are excited about the potential we see here and with our partnership with Global Venture Alliance. “

The launch of Plug and Play Moscow strategically follows the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, attended by top political and business leaders from across the globe. Launch event speakers include: Sergei Sobyanin, Mayor of Moscow City; Vladislav Surkov, Deputy Prime Minister of Russia; Alexander Shokhin, President of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs; and Vijay Parikh, Partner at Global Catalyst Partners.

Plug and Play Moscow facilities provide co-­‐working environments for tech startups as well as a permanent venue for education, events and conferences. An additional goal for Plug and Play Moscow is to raise an investment fund for U.S. and Russian tech startups. To date, two investments have been made, one in Russia (TravelTipz) and another in U.S. (Virool).

About Plug and Play Tech Center
Plug and Play Tech Center is a business accelerator that specializes in growing tech startups. Headquartered in Sunnyvale, CA, Plug and Play’s global network includes over 300 tech startups, 180 investors and a community of leading universities and corporate partners. From unique industry networking events, education and immersion programs to M&A, Plug and Play has everything tech startups need to get organized, connect and grow.

About Global Venture Alliance (GVA)
GVA is a complete innovation ecosystem that includes financial instruments and technology business acceleration services for the full business cycle of technology companies. GVA’s main priorities are to include technology transfer made from the Silicon Valley to Russia, BRIC and the CIS; provision of access to global venture capital for fast growing high-­‐tech companies; and their integration of such companies into the world’s innovative society.