HSBC Bank is the first UK bank to join the Microsoft BizSpark Programme, which offers start up technology companies access to the computer giant's support network.

HSBC will offer its estimated 17,000 technology start-up business banking customers access to the programme, which provides technology start-ups with mentoring, guidance and resources.

The offer is available to businesses under three years of age that are actively engaged in the development of a software-based product or service that is core to their business model.

"The technology sector remains vitally important for HSBC and accounted for one in ten of our start ups in the last year. Given the current economic environment we will hold to our traditional values and support and nurture sensible business propositions," said Huw Morgan, head of business banking at HSBC.