OK, you’re all aware of BizSpark and how it helps development focused startups to get easy access to Microsoft tools. Well, now we’ve launched WebsiteSpark for Web Developers and Designers! Similar to BizSpark, the idea is to make access to the Microsoft Web Platform as simple as possible (in Microsoft terms), enable training and support and help nurture smaller development/design shops.

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.  Once approved, these companies can have access to:

• Microsoft Web design and development tools , including 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 of Microsoft Windows Web Server 2008 or R2 (when available) and  four processor licenses for production usage of Microsoft SQL Server 2008 Web Edition.
• A third-party premium Website control panel (DotNetPanel).

Participating companies will also receive the following professional support and training:

• Two technical support incidents per company.
• Access to community support through connections with Network Partners, Hosting Partners and peers with complementary services and technologies.
• Unlimited access to technical managed newsgroups on MSDN.
• Unlimited program support for non-technical issues.

In addition to the signup site, you can follow WebsiteSpark on Twitter at http://twitter.com/websitespark or become a fan on Facebook http://bit.ly/12VPZj.

Also, check out Scott Guthrie’s blog for his unique perspective.