Microsoft has a long history of interacting with its most ardent fan base and enlisting their fans in helping to improve its products and how they’re used. The company’s loyalist activism ranges from its Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) program, in which experts in various Microsoft products act as committed evangelists for the company, to the Windows Insider program, which actively solicits feedback on beta versions of Windows 10.
Over the summer, Microsoft announced yet another initiative for its fans, the First League program, which looks to connect with the most excited Microsoft customers and demonstrate just how much the company appreciates their support. The program is limited geographically to certain European countries, and the company has just now started accepting members and scheduling events, as OnMSFT reports.
First League participants gain a host of benefits, including a direct connection to Microsoft staff and first-hand access to information on products and exclusive Skype meetings with the Microsoft team. Those lucky enough to be admitted to the program can gain hands-on access to the latest Microsoft hardware along with devices from the company’s OEM partners.
In addition, exclusive events will introduce the newest products, and every First League member receives a free Office 365 license as long as they’re a member of the program. Many likely First League participants are involved with Microsoft professionally as well — there’s a Facebook badge that touts the member’s participation, and the company is quick to point out its potential impact on professional careers.
The First League program is currently limited to Czech Republic, Slovakia, Serbia, Poland, Hungary, and Greece, and invites are going out now. The program’s first event in Poland is scheduled for December 17, where attendees will be treated to the newest product announcements and a few activities.
There’s no cost to participate in the program and to attend the events. The only price of admission, it appears, is being a huge Microsoft fan and living in the right locations. There’s no word on whether the program will expand beyond its current regions, but perhaps if it’s successful, then more Microsoft fans will be invited into what’s looking like a very exclusive club.
