Microsoft and Long Beach are partnering to prepare young people and entrepreneurs for the technology economy.

The City Council agreed this week to participate in Microsoft’s Digital Alliance Program, through which the Redmond, Wash.-company provides staff expertise and runs workshops free of charge.

Those include “Digi Camps” to expose both girls and boys to technology and coding, as well as “BizSpark” sessions to demonstrate how technology can simplify everyday tasks and bring efficiency and growth to businesses.

Mayor Robert Garcia said in a statement the new partnership is part of the city’s commitment to creating a tech culture and economy in Long Beach.

“Microsoft is a global leader in innovation and I’m excited that they are going to leverage their expertise and talent to support workforce and economic development programs for local residents and students,” said Garcia.

“By combining the numerous digital and training assets of Microsoft with the mayor and city of Long Beach’s focus on education and investing in the technology sector, we know that this relationship will empower the citizens of Long Beach to realize their full potential,” said Microsoft State and Local Government business General Manager Tori Locke said in a statement.

“Microsoft is excited to support the city in its efforts to create more economic development and educational resources for the businesses and youth in Long Beach.”

City officials said there is no direct cost for participating in the program.

The city, which has made a two-year commitment, will provide staff time and event space to coordinate and promote the events, with up to 100 girls, 100 boys and 200 local business owners being able to participate.

Contact Eric Bradley at 562-499-1254.