Press Releases (Corporate)

Microsoft Announces Availability of Windows 8 Consumer Preview

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 18:57:00 GMT

Milestone lets users explore a re-imagined, no-compromises Windows experience.

BARCELONA, Spain — Feb. 29, 2012 — Microsoft Corp. today announced the availability of the Windows 8 Consumer Preview — the next milestone of the Windows operating system. This latest preview will be made available for download starting today at http://preview.windows.com. The Windows 8 Consumer Preview offers a more robust experience for testing the world’s most popular operating system and is available to the widest range of people yet following the initial release of the Windows 8 Developer Preview late last year. The Developer Preview received more than 3 million downloads.

“With Windows 8, we reimagined the different ways people interact with their PC and how to make everything feel like a natural extension of the device, whether using a Windows 8 tablet, laptop or all-in-one,” said Steven Sinofsky, president of the Windows and Windows Live Division at Microsoft. “The Windows 8 Consumer Preview brings a no-compromises approach to using your PC.”

At a Windows 8 Consumer Preview event in Barcelona that was attended by partners from Europe and around the world, the company shared some key new updates in the Windows 8 Consumer Preview:

• Broad range of product changes and improvements. Since the Developer Preview in September, designed to preview the programming platform, Windows 8 has progressed across every dimension. From completing the user experience for touch, keyboard and mouse to refining the development platform, the Consumer Preview improves performance, quality and reliability across all subsystems. With the added features, it represents a more complete view of the capabilities of Windows 8.

• Windows Store with new apps. The Windows 8 Consumer Preview marks the beta opening of the Windows Store, which is filled with a variety of new Metro style apps from both third-party developers and Microsoft. During the Consumer Preview, these apps are available to try and experience at no cost to users. The Windows Store will offer personalized recommendations, and Windows 8 gives users the ability to take their apps and settings with them across multiple PCs, making it easy to discover and try new apps while offering developers the greatest opportunity of any platform.

• Connecting to the cloud across Windows-based PCs and Windows Phone 7. The Windows 8 Consumer Preview offers seamless integration with the content people care about across their Web services. An optional additional sign-on with a Microsoft account provides access to a host of features, including the ability to roam all settings, use cloud storage, communicate with email, calendar and contacts, and connect to a broad range of services. Your connection to the cloud works across your Windows-based PCs and your Windows 7 phones.

• Internet Explorer 10 Platform Preview 5. The best way to experience the Web on Windows is with Internet Explorer 10. The browser has been re-imagined to create a new experience designed specifically for Windows 8 devices. It provides an edge-to-edge user interface that is all about less browser and more Web. Fast and fluid, Internet Explorer is hardware-accelerated to enable Web performance.

• Preview of new hardware capabilities. At the event, Microsoft also showcased Windows 8 running on a wide range of new x86- and ARM-based reference hardware. This hardware will be available to select developers for trial and testing as previously announced.

The Windows 8 Consumer Preview will be available worldwide for download in English, French, German, Japanese and simplified Chinese languages. More information about Windows 8 and how to download the Consumer Preview is available at http://preview.windows.com or http://windowsteamblog.com.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

Note to editors: For more information, news and perspectives from Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft News Center at http://www.microsoft.com/news.

CLICK Launch Brings Hospitalized Children the Power of Play with Help from Microsoft Canada, Children’s Miracle Network and McMaster Children’s Hospital

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 21:04:00 GMT

Interactive computer technology allows Mac Kids to stay connected with friends, family and school

HAMILTON, February 24/CNW/ - Today, through its partnership with Microsoft Canada and Children’s Miracle Network, McMaster Children’s Hospital launched the CLICK (Child Life Interactive Computers for Kids) Program. CLICK has been designed to improve the patient experience through the power of play and create a sense of normalcy for children who experience hospitalizations for any length of time.

CLICK provides access to technology, Tablet PCs, software, HD webcams, digital cameras, projectors, Xbox, Kinect and more to hospitalized children during their stay. Various games and internet applications offered through CLICK can provide distraction, reassurance and reduce anxiety and stress. Some of these activities include computers for playing games, access to Internet search engines and social networks, e-mail, creating personal blogs, posting messages, tracking homework assignments and chatting online with families and friends.

“Microsoft is committed to CLICK because we have seen how technology can change the patient experience. Microsoft has supported CLICK in 4 other hospitals. This is something we strongly believe in,” said Michael Eisen, Chief Legal Officer, Microsoft Canada. “Our goal is to make sure hospitalized children are not isolated and have creative tools to get their minds back on having fun.”

As part of the Program, Microsoft Canada also funds a Child Life Specialist to teach the children and their parents how to use the technology. McMaster Children’s Hospital has taken the program one step further to integrate the CLICK Program into rehabilitation and other aspects of pediatric care.

“The unique aspect of this program is that it benefits children of all ages and can be used for so many purposes within the hospital environment,” said Pearl Veenema, President and CEO, Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation. “Bringing this technology to Mac Kids will enable our young patients and their families to remain connected to the outside world, explore options for creativity, support rehabilitation, and provide distraction from the serious conditions that brought them into our care.”

McMaster Children’s Hospital is the fifth hospital across Canada to implement the CLICK Program. Over 1.2 million dollars has been committed to date.

"Corporate partners like Microsoft help form the backbone of support for children’s healthcare,” said John Hartman, Chief Operating Officer, Children’s Miracle Network. “The incredible asset of Microsoft in CLICK – is they support such innovative and creative opportunities with funding and internal expertise to maximize the impact of helping children get better. They simply do not cut a cheque – they unleash their talent as well."

Facts:

Microsoft Canada has financially supported the CLICK program at five hospitals who are members of Children’s Miracle Network:
• McMaster Children’s Hospital (Hamilton, Ontario)
• Alberta Children's Hospital (Calgary, Alberta)
• Centre Hospitalier Universitaire du Quebec (Quebec City, Quebec)
• Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (Ottawa, Ontario)
• IWK Health Centre (Halifax, Nova Scotia)

CLICK integrates a combination of donations from Microsoft:
• Laptops installed with Skype, HD cameras and Microsoft Movie Maker
• Windows Tablets
• Microsoft HD webcams
• Headsets
• Xbox Kinect Games
• Kinect for Xbox 360 Bundles
• Digital Cameras
• TV with DVD player
• Projectors

Media Contact:

Sarah Louise Gardiner
sarah.gardiner@fleishman.ca
(647) 339-6445

McMaster Children’s Hospital

McMaster Children’s Hospital is one of Canada’s leading pediatric health care facilities and is the regional referral centre for children who are seriously ill, injured or require specialized services in south-central Ontario. With more than 180,000 patient visits a year, we provide a full range of specialized pediatric services including a dedicated emergency department, 40 outpatient clinics, the province’s largest neonatal intensive care unit and the only pediatric trauma centre in the region. In addition, a range of specialized outpatient services operate at the Chedoke site, including autism, developmental pediatrics & rehabilitation, and mental health. It is also home to the CanChild Centre for Childhood Disability Research and the internationally renowned Offord Centre for Child Studies.

Microsoft

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realise their full potential.

Children’s Miracle Network

Children’s Miracle Network® raises funds for 170 children’s hospitals, 14 of which are in Canada. These hospitals, in turn, use the money where it’s needed the most. When a donation is given, it stays in the community, ensuring that every dollar is helping local kids. Since 1983, Children’s Miracle Network has raised more than $4 billion, most of it $1 at a time. These donations have gone to support research and training, purchase specialized equipment, and ensure excellence in care, all in support of our mission to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible. Learn more at ChildrensMiracleNetwork.ca.

Great Place to Work® Unveils World’s Best Multinational Workplaces

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 13:20:00 GMT

Microsoft Tops the List of the 25 Best Companies to Work For in the World

NEW YORK – October 27, 2011 – Great Place to Work^®, a global research, consulting and training firm, today announced its first-ever Top 25 World’s Best Multinational Workplaces List at a gala awards ceremony at the New York Stock Exchange. Microsoft topped the list at no. 1, followed by SAS, NetApp, Google and FedEx Express, rounding out the top five. In addition, Cisco, Marriott, McDonald's, Kimberly Clark, and SC Johnson took the honors in the top 10.

Since launching the first Best Companies to Work For^® lists in partnership with FORTUNE magazine in the United States and Exame in Brazil in 1997, Great Place to Work now recognizes leading workplaces in some 45 countries. The World’s Best Multinational Workplaces List is the first integrated look at survey data from employees and managers from thousands of companies across six continents; making it the world’s largest annual study of workplace excellence.

“This list recognizes global companies that have demonstrated a truly serious commitment to creating workplaces that foster trust, pride and camaraderie amongst their employees,” said José Tolovi, Jr., Global CEO of Great Place to Work. “Each and every one of the companies on this inaugural ranking should be proud of this noteworthy accomplishment. Based on this survey, we can say, without a doubt, that these 25 companies are the best workplaces in the world.”

Based on data from surveys taken by more than 2.5 million employees, representing a 10-million strong workforce, and workplace culture analytics from more than 5,500 companies, these rankings form the world’s largest and most respected yearly studies of workplace excellence and management practices. Positions on these rankings are highly sought after by companies from around the globe –helping to bolster profitability and recruitment efforts, according to Tolovi.

“Employees around the world spoke out and told stories about our culture of trust, commitment to innovation and our passion for how technology can transform our customer’s lives,” said Lisa Brummel, chief people officer at Microsoft. “This ranking is a testament to the quality of the company culture that our employees have collectively created.”

To view the entire World's Best Multinational Workplaces list, please visit www.greatplacetowork.net/worldsbest.

For more information about Great Place to Work, please visit www.greatplacetowork.net.

About Great Place to Work®:

Great Place to Work^® Institute is a global research, consulting and training firm that helps organizations identify, create and sustain great workplaces through the development of high-trust workplace cultures. Great Place to Work serves businesses, non-profits and government agencies in 45 countries on all six continents.

About the World’s Best Multinational Workplaces List:

The World’s Best Multinational Workplaces List ranks the top 25 global companies to work for. The ranking marks the first time Great Place to Work will present a global best workplaces list. Qualifying companies must have appeared on at least five national Great Place to Work lists, have at least 5,000 employees worldwide, and at least 40 percent of their global workforce must work outside of the company’s home country.

The Power of Play – Celebrating the CLICK program at CHEO

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 22:46:00 GMT

John Hartman, Chief International Officer, Children’s Miracle Network, Maureen Jones, Child Life Specialist at the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), Gavin Thompson, Microsoft Canada, and Mrs. Laureen Harper celebrate the fifth anniversary of the Child Life Interactive Computers for Kids program. Microsoft Canada donated 200 Kinect gaming sensors to the 14 children’s hospitals across Canada.

Microsoft Canada, Children’s Miracle Network and CHEO celebrate fifth anniversary of CLICK program

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 02 Dec 2010 21:38:00 GMT

Microsoft Canada furthers support by donating 200 Kinect gaming sensors to 14 children’s hospitals across Canada

OTTAWA, ON – DEC. 2, 2010 - Microsoft Canada, Children’s Miracle Network and the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) celebrated the fifth anniversary of the Child Life Interactive Computers for Kids (CLICK) program today. At an event held at CHEO and attended by Mrs. Laureen Harper, Microsoft announced an expansion to the program with the donation of 200 units of Kinect™ sensors for Xbox 360® to the 14 Children’s Miracle Network member hospitals across Canada.

“Thanks to CLICK, we’ve seen children light up during what could have been very dark times. Microsoft Canada’s donations have enabled our patients to have a greater sense of normalcy by being more connected to their friends and family.” said Maureen Jones, Child Life Specialist, Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario. “We know that the power of play has an incredible impact on children and parents, through both treatment and recovery. In the past five years, CLICK has delivered remarkable results, and we look forward to exciting new opportunities for play with Kinect.”

Through the CLICK program, patients can access Tablet PCs, software, digital cameras, printers, webcams, Xbox 360 consoles and now Kinect for Xbox 360. CLICK is also implemented at an additional 14 Children’s Miracle Network member hospitals across Canada, including Quebec City’s Centre mère-enfant at CHUQ and Halifax’s IWK Health Centre.

“Harnessing the power of technology, CLICK enables children to stay connected, brings fun and joy into the hospital, and inspires them to stretch their imaginations and think creatively,” said Gavin Thompson, Director, Corporate Citizenship, Microsoft Canada. “By adding Kinect to CLICK, we hope to help improve hospital stays for children and families by giving them the opportunity to play with the same new technology their friends may be enjoying.”

“Five years ago, we asked Microsoft to help us bring interactive technology into CHEO . Rather than just writing a cheque, Microsoft Canada worked closely with Children's Miracle Network and CHEO to develop a meaningful program that meets the specific needs of children in hospital,”said John Hartman, Chief International Officer, Children’s Miracle Network. “What sets Microsoft Canada apart is their approach to understanding the challenges and goals of our organizations; they are committed to making social investments that enable us to make a difference in the lives of the children we serve.”

CLICK is part of Microsoft Canada’s corporate Citizenship program which is committed to making technology more relevant, affordable and accessible for people everywhere – including Canadian youth. Through social investments, the Microsoft Canada team aspires to ignite the power of creativity in organizations, businesses and youth across the country.

For more information on the CLICK program, please visit www.citizenship.microsoft.ca.

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About Kinect

Recently launched around the world, Kinect for Xbox 360 lets players use their body and voice to play games and entertainment, literally turning the player into the controller. By simply stepping in front of the sensor, Kinect picks up player’s movement, hears your voice and learns how you play.

About Microsoft Canada

Established in 1985, Microsoft Canada Inc. is the Canadian subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation (Nasdaq "MSFT") the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. Microsoft Canada provides nationwide sales, marketing, consulting and local support services in both French and English. Headquartered in Mississauga, Microsoft Canada has nine regional offices across the country dedicated to empowering people through great software - any time, any place and on any device. For more information on Microsoft Canada, please visit www.microsoft.ca.

About the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO)

The Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario is a health care centre dedicated to providing specialized care to children and youth in eastern Ontario and western Quebec. Opened in 1974, CHEO offers a range of medical services for patients from birth through to 18 years of age. CHEO now houses 167 inpatient beds – 20 are in Neonatal Intensive Care, 10 in Pediatric Intensive Care, 25 are in Psychiatry and 95 in inpatient wards. CHEO has six patient service units, including 56 different outpatient or ambulatory care clinics. CHEO is one of two free-standing pediatric hospitals in Canada. It is the primary teaching hospital for the University of Ottawa. CHEO handles over 200,000 patient visits per year and 6,000 children and youth are admitted to the hospital annually. To learn more, visit http://www.cheo.on.ca .

About Children’s Miracle Network

Children’s Miracle Network is an international non-profit organization that raises funds for more than 170 children’s hospitals, 14 of which are in Canada. Compassionate organizations, media partners and countless individuals unite with Children’s Miracle Network hospitals to help sick and injured kids in local communities. Donations to Children’s Miracle Network create miracles by funding medical care, research and education that saves and improves the lives of more than 2.6 million Canadian children each year. To learn more, visit http://childrensmiraclenetwork.ca.

For more information, please contact

Andrea Brasset

on behalf of Microsoft Canada
613-688-1192

abrasset@highroad.com

Microsoft Invests in Earth Rangers’ Green IT Strategy

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 23:10:00 GMT

Software donation helps spread sustainability message to youth

This week, Earth Rangers was honoured as the fourth "Top Green-IT Organization" by Computer World Today. Out of nearly 100 applicants, Earth Rangers was one of 12 IT departments honoured for reducing power demands and using technology to create energy efficiencies.

Located in Woodbridge, Ontario Earth Rangers believes that children have the right to inherit a healthy planet. They also believe that children have the desire and the power to change the world. The Earth Rangers program has doubled in size each year since 2004 by engaging and motivating millions of children and their families across the country to save endangered animals and their habitats. To achieve their mission, Earth Rangers combines children’s passion for animals and the environment with their love of entertainment and web based media.

Microsoft Canada is passionate about helping groups like Earth Rangers achieve their goals. Our corporate philosophy goes beyond giving financial donations and focuses on each organization’s individual mission. For example – for the past three years, Microsoft Canada has provided technology that contributes to Earth Rangers’ green IT initiatives, working with the team to ensure they have the right tools to create crucial technological pathways to action, increase productivity and facilitate collaboration across their network.

With the help of Microsoft, as well as several other technology leaders, Earth Rangers' new data centre is 10 times small than it could have been. About 9.3 square metres in size, energy consumption has only doubled- even though performance has increased more than tenfold since moving to the new system.

Rob Di Stefano, IT Systems Director at Earth Rangers, led this initiative. He says that the Earth Rangers is now "saving 90 per cent more energy which saves about 100,000 kilowatts hours each year - that's comparable to running nine average-sized homes per a year."

"Microsoft products are the foundation that we layer all of our other work on, and they are what allow us to be efficient," says Earth Rangers President and Co-CEO Mark Northwood, who has also been a key player in our Green IT social investment.

Earth Rangers also used the software to build an interactive online community for kids that helps extend its conservation message. By leveraging the funds saved as a result of its green energy initiatives, we were thrilled to find out that Earth Rangers now plans to expand this program online and across Canada.

Gavin Thompson is the Director of Corporate Citizenship at Microsoft Canada.

Microsoft employees promote online safety with Canadian parents and youth

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 23:09:00 GMT

Take Back the Net program tackles online safety, including cyber bullying

Today marks the kick-off of Canada’s National Bullying Awareness Week – an important week aimed at raising awareness of the prevalence of bullying, as well as the tools we can all use to help prevent it.

In 2009 alone, more than one third (40 per cent) of Canadian children reported being victims of cyber bullying,* and it is a serious issue that in recent months has been tied to several suicide cases throughout North America.

At Microsoft, our teams believe in the need for stronger engagement and a deeper understanding of ways we can all help to promote online safety. Joseph Sgandurra, Microsoft Principal Technical Account Manager, has worked with Microsoft for about 10 years. In 2005, he decided to volunteer for Microsoft’s Take Back the Net program, and he has been a committed member of the team ever since.

Take Back the Net aims to help families deal with safety and security issues that arise from Internet use. The program encourages parents and kids to join forces to deal with everything from cyber bullying to safe surfing, and provides resources, tools and multimedia information to help families surf with confidence. Materials are available for both kids and parents, and they include useful safety tips, sample family safety contracts, instructional videos and more.

As an ambassador for Take Back the Net, Joseph engages in communities across Canada by conducting interactive and educational presentations at schools, libraries, churches and other community venues. He says his passion for the program was born from his desire to protect young people from the hurt that cyber bulling will cause.

“No one should have to suffer through online bullying,” said Joseph. “Microsoft and the volunteers at Take Back the Net are working hard to make the web a safer place – and I’m proud to be a part of that.”

Microsoft provides Joseph with 40 paid hours per year for his volunteer work.

“Microsoft wants to benefit the community just as much as they benefit their shareholders,” said Joseph. “I’m glad to work for a company that is willing to make that important commitment.”

*Microsoft Canada/Youthography Research 2009

Canadian Teachers Honoured at the 2010 Annual Worldwide Innovative Education Forum in Cape Town, South Africa

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 18:54:00 GMT

Mississauga, ON - November 15, 2010 - Eight Canadians were among more than 500 educators, school leaders, government officials and others from more than 60 countries who attended the 2010 Worldwide Innovative Education Forum in Cape Town, South Africa. The teachers were recognized for their work integrating technology into the classroom to prepare students for tomorrow's workforce and for a lifetime of learning.

The Innovative Education Forum is part of Microsoft's Partners in Learning Forum. Each year, thousands of teachers from around the world participate in country-level and regional competitions. After each competition, winners move to the next level, culminating each year at the global summit.

This year, eight Canadian teachers from across the country were named Innovative Teachers. The teachers were challenged to use technology to develop innovative projects that will improve students' 21st-century skills such as critical thinking and problem solving, collaboration, communication, contextual learning, creativity, and information and media literacy.

The Canadian teachers honoured in Cape Town were:

Jeff Osinski and Jon Funk, Garden Valley Collegiate, Winkler, Manitoba
Curtis Wagner and Kelli Boklaschuk, St. Angela School, Saskatoon Catholic Cyber School, Saskatoon, SK
Clarke Hagan, Fisher Branch Collegiate and Lakeshore School Division, Eriskdale, Manitoba
Ian Fogarty, Riverview High School, Riverview, NB
Trevor Driscoll, Bathurst High School, Bathurst, NB
Frédéric Roussel, École La Villa des Amis, Tracadie-Beach, N-B

In the category of Innovation in Collaboration, Canadian Ian Fogarty was named second runner-up for his work on "Xenotransplant Debate" - a program designed to encourage complex thought through a semi-fictitious, bioethical issue debate. After research a variety of stakeholder perspective, deciding on a position and creating a political party with an associated media campaign, students engaged in a town hall debate and bill proposal.

Curtis Wagner and Kellie Boklaschuk were named semi-finalist for their work on their project "Connecting Kids" - a program designed for a grade 6 Social Studies Unit that integrated over 25 different types of software and technology. During the unit a partnership is created between two different classes on opposite sides of the world. Students work in groups to collaboratively to explore, research, develop and ultimately teach their classmates the curricular outcomes using different types of technology.

"The Innovative Teacher Awards exemplify the creativity and dedication of the world's most forward-thinking educators," said Jacinthe Robichaud, Manager, Partners in Learning, Microsoft Canada. "We are proud to have such a strong Canadian representation at the Innovative Education Forum and continue to be impressed and amazed by the ideas and programs that Canadian educators are cultivating for 21^st Century teaching and learning."

"It's quite an honour to be recognized for something that I do every day," said Ian Fogarty, teacher, Riverview High School, NB. "Technology is changing and enhancing the way that I teach and engage with my students, and it's exciting for me to share my experience and learn from other educators around the world at the Innovative Education Forum."

Fast Facts: Partners in Learning and the Innovative Education Forum

Number of attendees anticipated: 500 from 60+ countries
Number of participants at the country/regional level: 200,000
Number of countries participating in the Partners in Learning Program: 114
Teachers/School officials trained since 2003: Nearly 8 million
Schools participating in the Innovative Schools Program: Nearly 3,000
New Pathfinder Schools: 54 (one Canadian school is New Maryland Elementary School in New Brunswick)
Teachers on the Partners in Learning Network: Nearly 3 million from 97 countries. Content localized in 39 countries.
Students Reached (via Student Helpdesk, curricula): 185,759,408

About Partners in Learning

The Worldwide Innovative Education Forum is hosted by Microsoft Partners in Learning, a 10-year, nearly $500 million commitment by Microsoft to transform education systems around the world. Announced in 2003, Partners in Learning helps schools and teachers more effectively use technology to advance teaching and learning, provides leadership and change management information to school leaders, works to strengthen teachers' capacity to use technology effectively in the classroom, and provides greater access to technology for teachers and students.

About Microsoft Education

We believe that technology can expand the power of education and unlock the potential of students, educators and schools. Microsoft partners with education communities around the world to deliver relevant solutions, services and programs that focus on improved personalized learning outcomes.

About Microsoft Canada

Established in 1985, Microsoft Canada Co. is the Canadian subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation (Nasdaq "MSFT") the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. Microsoft Canada provides nationwide sales, marketing, consulting and local support services in both French and English. Headquartered in Mississauga, Microsoft Canada has nine regional offices across the country dedicated to empowering people through great software - any time, any place and on any device. For more information on Microsoft Canada, please visit www.microsoft.ca. For more information on Microsoft Canada's citizenship initiatives, please visit www.citizenship.microsoft.ca.

Dozens of Organizations Benefit From New, Collaborative Approach to Corporate Giving From Microsoft Canada

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Wed, 20 Oct 2010 16:58:00 GMT

Social Innovation Investments and Collaboration With Canadian Organizations Lead to Great Benefits for Those in Need

TORONTO, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Oct. 18, 2010) - Microsoft Canada last year invested over $20 million in software, cash and curriculum in Canada to local organizations to support programs around the globe, and encouraged hundreds of its employees to volunteer in their local communities. Between July 2009 and July 2010, Microsoft Canada worked closely with dozens of organizations, including Earth Rangers, Children's Miracle Network, Tim Hortons Children's Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, Right to Play and Kids Help Phone to help them apply innovative solutions to a range of challenges. Microsoft Canada's latest recipient has been The Canadian Red Cross.

Recent software donations totalling over five-million dollars to the Canadian Red Cross have assisted the organization with disaster relief programs in both Haiti and Pakistan. Through collaborating with Microsoft Canada's corporate citizenship team, the Canadian Red Cross has established improved communications in the office and on the ground.

"In any disaster, quick response is crucial to stabilizing an environment. What Microsoft enabled us to do in Haiti was so successful, we've leveraged that same technology to help with disaster relief in Pakistan," said Almin Surani, CIO, the Canadian Red Cross. "Leveraging a centralized platform as the back engine for our relief efforts has allowed our teams to better collaborate, maintain consistent documentation, track supplies and provide more streamlined relief efforts on the ground to those in need."

Before the Haitian earthquake catastrophe, Microsoft Canada worked with the Canadian Red Cross to implement Microsoft SharePoint® software that has helped to centralize and share important information and resources throughout the organization's Canadian offices. Access to real time data supports the organization's efforts in disaster zones from tracking equipment to managing team deployments.

In Canada, Microsoft has a corporate giving philosophy that goes beyond financial donations. The Canadian team is championing innovative and collaborative forms of philanthropy to ensure the entire organization can participate and demonstrate a culture of social responsibility.

"The nature of corporate giving is changing," said Gavin Thompson, Corporate Citizenship, Microsoft Canada. "Our philosophy is to help increase resources available to organizations that are impacting societal issues across Canada. Beyond resources, Microsoft is further dedicated to collaborating with these organizations to develop innovative yet tangible solutions that enable them to be more effective in their work."

Microsoft Canada has an ongoing commitment to investing in local organizations that can make a big impact in Canadian communities, as well as across the globe. Additional information about initiatives supported by Microsoft Canada's corporate citizenship program can be found online at citizenship.microsoft.ca.

About Microsoft Canada

Established in 1985, Microsoft Canada Inc. is the Canadian subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. Microsoft Canada provides nationwide sales, marketing, consulting and local support services in both French and English. Headquartered in Mississauga, Microsoft Canada has nine regional offices across the country dedicated to empowering people through great software - any time, any place and on any device. For more information on Microsoft Canada, please visit www.microsoft.ca.

For more information, please contact

Tania Divito
on behalf of Microsoft Canada
416-644-2262
tania.divito@highroad.com

Microsoft Canada noted one of Canada’s Top 10 Workplaces

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 00:39:00 GMT

Best Workplaces 2010 survey cements Microsoft's worldwide champion status

Mississauga, ON - April 13, 2010 - Microsoft is one of the Top 10 places to work in Canada, according to the Great Places to Work institute (GPTW). Microsoft Canada was also recognized by GPTW as a cultural champion.

A Cultural Champion is described by the GPTW Institute as "[a company with]... a strong corporate culture that is recognizable across the world in terms of a common value system and an explicit belief that people are the key to business success." Microsoft has been recognized on 24 of the 34 worldwide rankings done annually by GPTW.

"We are honoured to be recognized for what we have always known about our company -- that it's a great place to work," said Eric Gales, President, Microsoft Canada. "Microsoft Canada employs brilliant and talented people from coast-to-coast and it's thanks to them that our company is honoured like this."

The "Best Workplaces in Canada" competition process is based on two criteria: two-thirds of the total score comes from a 57-statement survey completed by a random selection of employees, along with their open-ended comments about their organization; the remaining one-third of the score comes from an in-depth review of the organization's culture, including an evaluation of HR policies and procedures. Together, these criteria are judged against the five trust-building dimensions of a great place to work: credibility, respect, fairness, pride and camaraderie.

This year's list received over 200 nominations and approximately 41,000 employees participated in the 2010 "Best Workplaces in Canada" survey.

About the Great Place to Work^® Institute

Great Place to Work® Institute is a global research and management consultancy with expertise on workplace transformation and a presence in 40 countries worldwide. Our mission is to improve society by creating better workplaces. We are best-known for our global Best Workplaces Programme, which we produce in conjunction with prestigious media partners such as the Financial Times and Fortune. With more than 4,000 organizations taking part in over 44 national lists across the globe, the programme is the world's largest of its kind. We believe passionately that any company or organization can become a great place to work. Our mission is to help you do it.

About Microsoft Canada

Canadian teachers honoured at worldwide Innovative Education Forum in Brazil

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:15:00 GMT

Microsoft award given to teachers who use technology in innovative ways to improve student learning

Mississauga, ON - November 9, 2009 - Twelve Canadians were among more than 250 teachers from around the world honoured last week at Microsoft's Worldwide Innovative Education Forum in Salvador, Brazil. The teachers were recognized for their work integrating technology into the classroom to prepare students for tomorrow's workforce and for a lifetime of learning.

The Innovative Education Forum is part of Microsoft's Partners in Learning Program. Each year, thousands of teachers from around the world participate in country-level and regional competitions. After each competition, winners move to the next level, culminating each year at the global summit.

This year, 15 Canadian teachers from across the country were named Innovative Teachers. The teachers were challenged to use technology to develop innovative projects that will improve students' 21st-century skills such as critical thinking and problem solving, collaboration, communication, contextual learning, creativity, and information and media literacy.

The Canadian teachers honoured in Brazil are:

--Susan Callfas, St. Mary's Elementary School, Lloydminster, Alberta

--George Daley, Bathurst Learning Center, Bathurst, New Brunswick

--Jen Deyenberg, Dorothy Dalgiesh School, Picture Butte, Alberta

--Geneviève Doucet, Carrefour de l'Acadie, Dieppe, New Brunswick

--Cline Gideon, Sugarloaf Senior High School, Campbellton, New Brunswick

--Carrie Granberg, Alf Cuthbert School, Moosehorn, Manitoba

--Jodi Hafenbrak, Balmoral Hall School, Winnipeg, Manitoba

--Darlene Hubber, Coalhurst Elementary School, Coalhurst Alberta

--Jane Smith, South March Public School, Kanata, Ontario

--Nathan Toft, A. Lorne Cassidy Elementary School, Stittsville, Ontario

--Leanne Tretiak, Queen Mary Community School, Prince Albert, Saskatchewan

--Lorie Zbaraschuk, Meath Park School, Meath Park, Saskatchewan

Doug Pharis and Jeff Bryant of Coalhurst Elementary School and Shelley Davis-Forman of Arrowwood School in Arrowwood, Alberta were also named Canadian Innovative teachers but did not attend the trip to Brazil.

Quotes:

Jacinthe Robichaud

"Innovative teachers creatively and effectively use technology in their curriculum to help improve the way students learn," said Jacinthe Robichaud, Manager, Partners in Learning, Microsoft Canada. "The Innovative Education Forum gives leading Canadian educators the opportunity to collaborate with their peers from around the world to understand best practices in 21^st Century teaching and learning."

Jane Smith, South March Public School, Kanata, Ontario

"My colleague Nathan and I really appreciate this once in a lifetime opportunity," said Innovative Teacher Jane Smith. "To be able to share ideas with people from around the world, in person, is a very rare thing for educators. We tend to spend our time in our classrooms. Occasionally we collaborate with teachers in other schools through email, blogs, podcasts or through online meetings but we rarely get the chance to meet face-to-face. It's an experience we will never forget."

Jen Deyenberg, Dorothy Dalgiesh School, Picture Butte, Alberta

"Thanks to Microsoft for such a fantastic chance to present our projects, network and build connections with innovative teachers from around the planet," said Jen Deyenberg, Canadian Innovative Teacher. "I had the opportunity to collaborate and build global projects to enhance the learning of our students. I was inspired by amazing teachers from all over the world. I missed my students but Skyped and blogged to help them better understand how technology can keep people connected even across continents."

George Daley, Bathurst Learning Center, Bathurst, New Brunswick

"I was honoured to attend this conference and share my students' work with other technology-focused educators," said George Daley, Canadian Innovative Teacher. "My involvement with this program has reinforced my belief that technology can increase student engagement while in school and help them prepare for life outside the classroom."

Fast Facts: Partners in Learning and the Innovative Education Forum

--Number of Participating Countries: 112

--Teachers/School Officials Trained since 2003: 6,801,108

--Schools participating in the Innovative Schools Program: 1,300

--Pathfinder Schools: 30 (one Canadian school is St- André School in New Brunswick)

--Mentor Schools: 12

--Students Reached (via Student Helpdesk, curricula): 168,006,476

--More than 250 teachers from over 60 countries attended the Innovative Education Forum

--12 winners were announced at the conference

--Thousands of teachers participate in regional and country level events to become part of the program

About Partners in Learning

About Microsoft Education

About Microsoft Canada

For more information and to speak with Canada's Innovative Teachers please contact:

Meg Sinclair, Media Profile

(416) 504-8464 x244

Meg.Sinclair@mediaprofile.com

New Study Reports on Positive Contributions of IT Sector to Global Economic Recovery

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 16:17:00 GMT

Research from 52 countries including Canada forecasts the creation of 5.8 million new jobs worldwide and 75,000 new businesses over the next four years.

Mississauga, ON - October 5, 2009 - Global IT research firm International Data Corporation (IDC) and Microsoft Corp. today released the results of global research measuring the positive impact of the information technology (IT) industry's contributions to local economies.

The IDC study, commissioned by Microsoft, investigates the breadth and depth of the contribution of IT to gross domestic product (GDP), job creation in the IT industry, employment in the software sector, formation of new companies, local IT spending, and tax revenues in 52 countries, representing 98 percent of total worldwide IT spending. The research found that in Canada, Microsoft's ecosystem of local partners, vendors and service providers are a catalyst for local economic growth and opportunity, during the current economic difficulties and both its long and short term recovery.

"In this fundamental economic reset, innovative technologies will play a vital role in driving productivity gains and enabling the creation of new local businesses and highly skilled jobs that fuel economic recovery and support sustainable economic growth," said Steve Ballmer, CEO of Microsoft. "Countries that foster innovation and invest in infrastructure, education and skills development for their citizens will have a major competitive advantage in the global marketplace."

Key Findings on the IT Industry for Canada

- Spending on IT in Canada will exceed $39 billion in 2009. From the end of 2008 to the end of 2013, IT spending will grow 1.9 per cent each year, compared to GDP growth of 0.9 per cent a year.

- The IT market will drive the creation of more than 1,000 new businesses and over 84,000 new jobs between the end of 2009 and the end of 2013. Most of the new companies will be small and locally owned organizations, and the jobs will be highly skilled, high-quality jobs.

- In 2009, local partners in the Microsoft ecosystem will generate $13.5 billion in revenues for themselves. To generate these revenues, they will invest $4.5 billion in development, marketing, training and sales in the Canadian economy.

- The Microsoft ecosystem, defined as local companies that develop and/or sell products that run with or on Microsoft software, or that service and distribute Microsoft software, is a critical economic catalyst in every country where Microsoft operates. For every dollar that Microsoft generates in 2009, local companies in this ecosystem will generate $8.43 CDN.

- Companies in the Microsoft ecosystem employ 116,000 people and IT-using organizations employ 216,000 IT professionals who work with Microsoft software or products and services based on it. Together, those employees account for 39 percent of total IT employment in 2009 in Canada.

"Partnering with Microsoft has contributed to Infusion's growth over the years," said Alim Somani, President, Infusion Development. "During the dot.com bust and now through this recent recession, our partnership with Microsoft has provided us opportunities in new markets, with new technologies and with new customers and has contributed to our success. Being part of the Microsoft ecosystem enables us and supports us which furthers our growth as a company worldwide."

"Over the past 20 years, we've seen transformative power in how investments in IT innovations foster economic growth," said James Milway, Executive Director, Institute for Competitiveness and Prosperity. "Continued innovation and investment in information technology will fuel the economic recovery and contribute to the growth of employment and new businesses in Canada."

Additional Findings About the Software Industry for Canada

- Software spending represents nearly 20 percent of Canada's total IT spending.

- Software drives employment in the IT industry, as 62 percent of IT employees are engaged in creating, distributing, installing or servicing software.

Full results of the study can be found at http://microsoft.com/economicgrowth.

About IDC Methodology

This study applies IDC's Economic Impact Model, which assesses the IT industry's impact on job creation, company formation, local IT spending and tax revenues in addition to assessing Microsoft's partner ecosystem. The study's spending figures accounted for hardware, software, services and data networking expenditures by consumers, businesses, governments and educational institutions within each country. Tax revenue figures were based on potential VAT or sales tax revenues from the sale of hardware, software or services, as well as business and personal income taxes and social taxes. IT employment included the number of people employed (full-time equivalent) in hardware, software, services or channel firms, and those individuals managing IT resources in an IT-using organization (e.g., programmers, help desk, IT managers). All data was cross-checked against published information and census data available from government sources and validated by local government officials. A report on IDC's methodology is available at http://microsoft.com/economicgrowth.

About Microsoft Canada Co.

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For more information, press only:

Meg Sinclair
Media Profile on behalf of Microsoft Canada Co.
(416) 504-8464 / Meg.Sinclair@mediaprofile.com

Note to editors: If you are interested in viewing additional information on Microsoft, please visit the Microsoft Web page at http://news.microsoft.ca on Microsoft's corporate information pages. Web links, telephone numbers and titles were correct at time of publication, but may since have changed.

Toronto Mayor and Microsoft Canada to open ProTech Media Centres in three more of Toronto’s Priority Neighbourhoods for Investment

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 19:57:00 GMT

Eglinton East-Kennedy Park, Malvern and Weston-Mount Dennis youth to receive free digital arts and technology skills training

Mississauga, ON - August 10, 2009 - Together with Toronto Mayor David Miller, Microsoft Canada today announced the expansion of the successful ProTech Media Centre program to three Priority Neighbourhoods for Investment. The announcement was made at the opening of the Kennedy-Eglinton ProTech Media Centre, located within the Toronto Public Library - Kennedy/Eglinton branch at 2380 Eglinton Avenue East.

The Pro Tech program offers free digital arts and technology skills training. The expansion effort is made possible by a Microsoft Canada Unlimited Potential Community Technology Skills grant of $1 million in cash, digital learning curriculum and Microsoft-based technology. The City of Toronto is also supporting the program through its Partnership Opportunities Legacy Fund, which has set aside $13 million for Toronto's 13 Priority Neighbourhoods for Investment, to be leveraged by funding from outside partners for youth-focused social and recreational infrastructure projects.

ProTech Centres provide neighbourhood youth with free access to state-of-the-art technology including digital arts (animation, web design, digital photography, audio and video editing) and Microsoft curricula to introduce youth to potential careers in new media while providing computer literacy skills and creating opportunities for self-expression.

The Kennedy-Eglinton ProTech Media Centre is the second centre to open after the Rexdale ProTech Media Centre in Jamestown launched in July 2007. Rexdale's centre has been an overwhelming success; since the doors first opened the centre has attracted more than 1,000 registered members and more than 9,600 repeat visits from local youth. Planning for additional ProTech Media Centres in Malvern and Weston-Mount Dennis is underway, with those centres set to open in the near future .

Partners for the Kennedy-Eglinton ProTech Media Centre include Tropicana Community Services, the City of Toronto, the Toronto Public Library and Centennial College. Tropicana Community Services is acting as the grant trustee and will be responsible for the day-to-day centre operations. The City of Toronto paid to create a brand-new space for the centre, which is supported by and housed within the Toronto Public Library - Kennedy/Eglinton branch. Centennial College is helping to develop the centre's programs and providing volunteers to mentor youth and coordinate new media workshops.

Quotes:

"This is a perfect example of private and public-sector partners coming together to provide innovative opportunities in Toronto's Priority Neighbourhoods," said Mayor Miller. "It's especially important that local youth have been involved in this project from the start, and that many more youth will pass through these doors. The creative possibilities and career benefits provided by ProTech are boundless."

"The overwhelming success of the Rexdale ProTech Media Centre in Jamestown is motivating Microsoft Canada, the City of Toronto and community partners to expand the program to three additional neighbourhoods," said Eric Gales, President, Microsoft Canada. "Today's youth incorporate technology into every part of their daily lives. By providing access to technology and education we're feeding their curiosity and creativity with the hope of generating interest in pursuing careers in technology related fields."

"Tropicana is thrilled to be a part of this initiative. We envision the Kennedy-Eglinton ProTech Media Centre becoming a real hub for youth in this community," said Sharon Shelton, Executive Director, Tropicana Community Services. "Many of today's youth are very excited about technology. The media centre is a great opportunity to really connect with youth and assist them in turning a curiosity or passion into a lifelong hobby or career."

"We were so pleased that the local youth wanted the library to be the location for the Kennedy-Eglinton ProTech Media Centre," said Jane Pyper, City Librarian, Toronto Public Library. "This really speaks to the library's role as a dynamic community destination that engages youth in meaningful ways, that encourages them to develop their skills and interests, and that provides them with opportunities to advance their education and explore their creativity."

"Centennial College has long been a community touchstone for outreach projects in Scarborough, and I am delighted that we can be part of this excellent initiative to introduce new media skills to local youth," said Ann Buller, President and CEO, Centennial College. "I'm especially happy to see our own creative communications students taking a lead role in coordinating the workshops and mentoring other young people. Learning is especially engaging when it's peer to peer."

Fast Facts:

- The first ProTech Media Centre opened in Rexdale in July 2007
- ProTech Media Centres introduce youth aged 13 to 24 to the digital arts through multi-media based software and curricula.
- While courses evolve to meet students' needs, each centre begins by offering introductory courses in web page design and digital media including digital photography, digital audio, and digital video.
- Registration for all programs is free of charge and students can enroll in as many programs as they like.
- The first ProTech Media Centre opened in Rexdale in 2007, and the ProTech model is now being expanded to more three Priority Neighbourhoods for Investment- Eglinton East-Kennedy Park, Malvern and Weston-Mount Dennis
- Microsoft Canada has donated over $1.5 million to the program to date
- The program is funded through Microsoft Canada's Unlimited Potential Community Technology Skills (CTS) grants. In Canada, $4 million (ProTech inclusive) has been given to CTS programs since 2004. Organizations that have received grants in Canada include:
o Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada
o Frontier College - Beat the Street Program (Toronto)
o Dixon Hall (Toronto)
o The Manitoba E-Association
o The LOCUS project (Vancouver)
o JobStart (Toronto)
- The City of Toronto supports ProTech Media Centres through the Partnership Opportunities Legacy Fund, an initiative born in 2007 when Mayor Miller and City Council committed $13 million in seed funding over a four year period for investment in the city's 13 Priority Neighbourhoods. This investment is intended to leverage equivalent funding from outside partners for youth-focused social and recreational infrastructure projects.

About Tropicana Community Services
Tropicana Community Services, a Toronto-based multi-service organization, provides all youth, newcomers, people of Black and Caribbean heritage and others in need with opportunities and alternatives that lead to success and positive life choices. More information can be found at www.tropicanacommunity.org

About the Toronto Public Library
Toronto Public Library is the world's busiest urban public library system. Every year, more than 16 million people visit our 99 branches and borrow almost 30 million items. To learn more about Toronto Public Library, visit our website at www.torontopubliclibrary.ca.

About Centennial College
Centennial College is Ontario's first public college, established in 1966, primarily serving
the eastern portion of the Greater Toronto Area with four campuses. It has earned an international reputation for exemplary teaching, innovative programming and extensive partnership building. Centennial (www.centennialcollege.ca) is recognized as one of the most culturally diverse post-secondary institutions in Canada, supporting enrolments of 12,500 full-time students and 25,000 part-time learners annually.

About the City of Toronto
Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.6 million people. It is the economic engine of Canada and one of the greenest and most creative cities in North America. Toronto has won numerous awards for quality, innovation and efficiency in delivering public services. 2009 marks the 175th anniversary of Toronto's incorporation as a city. Toronto's government is dedicated to prosperity, opportunity and liveability for all its residents.

About Microsoft Canada
Established in 1985, Microsoft Canada Co. is the Canadian subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation (Nasdaq "MSFT") the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. Microsoft Canada provides nationwide sales, marketing, consulting and local support services in both French and English. Headquartered in Mississauga, Microsoft Canada has nine regional offices across the country dedicated to empowering people through great software - any time, any place and on any device. For more information on Microsoft Canada, please visit www.microsoft.ca. For more information on Microsoft Canada's citizenship initiatives, please visit www.citizenship.microsoft.ca.

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For more information please contact:

Kieran Lawler / Meg Sinclair
Media Profile
Office: 416-504-8464 / Cell: 416-303-0799
kieran.lawler@mediaprofile.com / meg.sinclair@mediaprofile.com

Microsoft Canada to help kids CLICK with family and friends at the Alberta Children’s Hospital in Calgary

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 28 May 2009 21:57:00 GMT

Microsoft asks hospital's Youth Advisory Council for technology wish list

Calgary, Alberta - May 28, 2009 - Microsoft Canada Co., together with the Children's Miracle Network announced today an initiative to establish a Child Life Interactive Computers for Kids (CLICK) program at the Alberta Children's Hospital. CLICK has been deployed at three other Canadian hospitals, providing wireless bedside connectivity, Tablet PCs, software, hardware and Xbox® video game systems and games to young patients in order to help create a sense of normalcy during hospitalization. Microsoft Canada also provides funding for a Child Life Specialist in each hospital to teach the children and their parents how to use the technology.

In a unique approach, representatives from Microsoft will meet with the hospital's Youth Advisory Council today to devise better ways to help youth connect with family, friends and school during lengthy or frequent periods of hospitalization. This tactic of engaging with young people who will use the program prior to implementation has led to innovative applications of bedside technology in children's hospitals. In 2008, a meeting between Microsoft and the Youth Advisory Council at the IWK Health Centre in Halifax led to the inclusion of a virtual classroom.

Quotes:

"Microsoft Canada has been a generous supporter of the Alberta Children's Hospital for many years. We are so grateful to have exceptional donors like Microsoft Canada that look for innovative and exciting ways to help the kids and families here at our hospital," says Saifa Koonar, Acting CEO of the Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation. "The CLICK program will be an extremely valuable addition to the hospital, allowing kids to connect with family and friends and so much more. It is another terrific example of how Microsoft Canada helps our kids focus on what they do best - being kids!"

"Microsoft Canada is committed to providing access to technology and education," said Gavin Thompson, Director, Citizenship, Microsoft Canada. "I've seen firsthand how having the technological resources available can help transform the hospital experience for young patients so that they feel less isolated and better connected to loved ones and friends."

Fast Facts:

Microsoft has donated over $1 million to the CLICK program at the three participating CMN hospitals. In addition, the program integrates a combination of donations from Microsoft:

- Three years of funding support for a Child Life Specialist
- Wireless network
- Hardware and software (laptops, tablet PCs, web cameras and Microsoft® Windows Vista® operating system, Roundtable)
- Xbox and games appropriate for various age groups
- Technical support
- Internet connectivity
- Furniture (desks and chairs)

The Alberta Children's Hospital will be the fourth CMN affiliated hospital to establish a CLICK program in Canada. Hospitals that have the CLICK program include:

- IWK Health Centre in Halifax, January 2009
- Hospitalier Universitaire du Québec (CHUQ) in Québec City, August 2007
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) in Ottawa, May 2005

About Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation

The Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation is the official fundraising body for the Alberta Children's Hospital. The Foundation raises funds for excellence in child health and family-centred care. Through the generosity of donors, the Foundation provides funding for innovative programs, state-of-the-art equipment, advanced medical training and internationally recognized pediatric research.

About Children's Miracle Network

Children's Miracle Network is an international non-profit organization dedicated to saving and improving the lives of children by raising funds for children's hospitals and health foundations across North America. Each year, the 170 Children's Miracle Network hospitals, 14 of which are in Canada, create miracles by providing the finest medical care, life-saving research and preventative education to help millions of kids overcome diseases and injuries of every kind. Through its year-round efforts to help kids, Children's Miracle Network has raised more than $3.4 billion to date, most of which is donated a dollar or two at a time by caring individuals across North America. In 2007, Children's Miracle Network raised more than $42.7 million for the 14 Canadian member children's hospitals/foundations and the 2.6 million children they treated. To donate or to learn more, go to childrensmiraclenetwork.ca. Your donations benefit your Children's Miracle Network hospital.

About Microsoft Canada

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For more information please contact:

Stephanie Bell
Media Profile
w. 416-342-1836 / c. 416-937-4912
stephanie@mediaprofile.com

Trish Courage
Associate, Communications
Alberta Children's Hospital Foundation
w. 403-955-8845 / c. 403-875-7595
tcourage@achf.com

Microsoft Canada makes its largest ever software donation – more than $3 million in software and licensing to Canadian Red Cross

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 07 May 2009 16:16:00 GMT

Microsoft Canada surpasses $50 million mark with recent donation

Mississauga, ON - May 4, 2009 - The Canadian Red Cross is the recipient of Microsoft Canada's largest ever single software donation. Microsoft Canada will provide the Canadian Red Cross with more than $3 million in software and licensing to help them focus on disaster relief efforts and humanitarian aid in Canada and around the world. The donation also brings Microsoft Canada's total donations to nonprofits and charities across Canada to more than $50 million since 2004.

Microsoft Canada's donation includes business software (Windows Vista®, Microsoft® Office 2007, and SharePoint®) as well as developer tools such as Visual Studio®, which will help significantly improve internal communications and business services by making them more interactive for Canadian Red Cross employees and partners.

In total, two thousand Canadian Red Cross computers and 15 servers will be updated. The donation will free up much needed resources for the Canadian Red Cross to focus on disaster management, first aid, water safety, conflict, fund development, and health and injury prevention.

Quotes

"When dealing with disaster situations the difference between life and death can come down to quick and effective response" said Almin Surani, Chief Information Officer, Canadian Red Cross. "Microsoft Canada's donation will allow us to store, share and analyze crucial data allowing us to deploy appropriate emergency solutions in a timely manner."

"Microsoft Canada is committed to helping organizations with a strong social agenda help increase their productivity and achieve their long-term objectives," said Gavin Thompson, Director, Corporate Citizenship, Microsoft Canada. "By providing a substantial technology infrastructure to the Canadian Red Cross, the organization can more effectively manage and deploy its resources contributing to the well being of people in Canada, and assist others around the world."

About Canadian Red Cross
The Canadian Red Cross (www.redcross.ca) is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which includes the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and 186 national Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Our mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.

About Microsoft Canada
Established in 1985, Microsoft Canada Co. is the Canadian subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation (Nasdaq "MSFT") the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. Microsoft Canada provides nationwide sales, marketing, consulting and local support services in both French and English. Headquartered in Mississauga, Microsoft Canada has nine regional offices across the country dedicated to empowering people through great software - any time, any place and on any device. For more information on Microsoft Canada, please visit www.microsoft.ca.

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For more information please contact:

Media Profile
Meg Sinclair
(416) 342-1804
meg@mediaprofile.com

Canadian Red Cross
Pam Aung Thin
(613) 740-1927
pam.aungthin@redcross.ca