In the weeks and months after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita devastated the Gulf Coast, Microsoft was among the many companies that rallied to help victims and provide dedicated support to the rebuilding of New Orleans and other flood-ravaged areas along the Gulf Coast. Among those impacted by the travesty were more than 125,000 small- and mid-sized businesses.

Two years later, as the nation observes the second anniversary of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Microsoft’s efforts to help undo the damage continue by providing assistance to local small businesses. Today, at the 2007 Hope & Recovery Summit in New Orleans, Microsoft announced it will provide additional financial relief for small businesses affected by the natural disasters. Working with the state of Louisiana and the Louisiana Small Business Development Center (LSBDC), Microsoft will provide a year of licensing at no charge for Microsoft software purchased by affected small businesses. Those who have sought assistance through the LSBDC will be eligible for this benefit, which offers a financial break for entrepreneurs rebuilding and growing their business.