Microsoft Azure strengthens ‘Big Compute’ muscle with Kiwi Start-Up acquisition

Microsoft this morning announced that it has acquired GreenButton, a successful New Zealand software start-up that specialises in high performance cloud computing.

For the software giant, the acquisition will further bolster Microsoft Azure, Microsoft’s public cloud offering, underscoring the company’s commitment to Big Compute in the cloud.

Based in Wellington, GreenButton’s advanced technology solutions are used to run compute intensive applications in the cloud, with some of its largest customers including US-based companies Pixar, NASA and Boeing.

“Data and computation are driving businesses today—but as data volume, variety and velocity continue to explode, our customers need help processing massive amounts of information and running compute-intensive simulations for a growing number of applications,” says Mike Neil, Director of Program Management, Microsoft Azure.

“This need is met by Big Compute, and that is why today we are excited to be welcoming GreenButton into the Azure family.

"With GreenButton’s tools integrated into Microsoft Azure, we will provide solutions that allow anyone to harness the power of the cloud.”

While financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, in addition to integrating GreenButton’s intellectual property into the Azure platform, Microsoft will retain and invest in the team and infrastructure, which will remain in New Zealand after the acquisition.

“At Microsoft, we invest in growing tech talent in New Zealand from education through to entrepreneurs through a wide range of programs,” says Paul Muckleston, Managing Director of Microsoft New Zealand.

“This includes our BizSpark program, which more than 700 New Zealand based companies have benefitted from since its inception, including GreenButton.

"This is a clear indication that New Zealand is producing world-class, scalable technology solutions.”

Founder and CEO of GreenButton Scott Houston, says Microsoft’s purchase is great news for the GreenButton team, their investors and other New Zealand companies.

“We have enjoyed an incredibly supportive relationship with Microsoft for many years, from their support through BizSpark, to being one of their global technology award winners,” he adds.

"This purchase is a real shot in the arm for other New Zealand companies. It shows that if you take your ideas to the world stage, Fortune 500 companies like Microsoft might just notice.

"It happened to us, so it's entirely possible it could happen for other Kiwi start-ups.”