Microsoft Corp. today announced a call for entries for the Start Something Amazing Awards, a nationwide program honoring people who use Windows� and related technology in simple yet powerful ways to pursue what they are passionate about.

The Start Something Amazing Awards are designed to recognize the many unique and creative ways people are using Windows technology today. People are invited to submit a personal story or nominate others who have used Windows technology to pursue their interests or start something new. Five award winners will receive a trip to Seattle with the opportunity to meet Bill Gates, $5,000 in Windows technology and once-in-a-lifetime prizes designed to further celebrate their passions provided by Entertainment Weekly magazine, ESPN Inc., the National Geographic Society, Scripps Networks Inc. (Home & Garden Television (HGTV) and Food Network), and VH1. One grand prize winner also will be featured as part of the national Start Something ad campaign.

Whether it's raising donations for favorite causes or recording a first album, the incredible advancements in technology and the Windows platform offer individuals greater opportunities to follow their passions," said Bill Gates, chairman and chief software architect at Microsoft. "With Windows, people have a vast choice of tools, applications and devices to start anything they like."