If you've been flirting with Windows Azure, Microsoft is now offering an extra incentive to give the platform a try. It is asking developers to demonstrate their creativity in a contest to see who can write the most compelling cloud applications, and three grand prizes are on the line.

The prize categories are .NET applications, PHPs and an overall application winner chosen by public voting. Developers that have authored existing Azure services are eligible to participate in the contest.

Microsoft wants the applications to be interoperable either with Windows Azure's .NET Services, Microsoft online services or third-party cloud services. The company is asking participants to "push the boundaries of interoperability."

Winners will:

    •    Have their application featured on www.azure.com
    •    Be interviews on MSDN's Channel 9
    •    Be announced at the Structure 09 trade show
    •    AND most importantly, receive cash. The .NET and PHP winners will receive $US5,000 each, and the community winner will be given a $2,500 VISA gift card

Microsoft has discussed very few of the authored Azure services, and I look forward to seeing some of the submissions. Do you or any developer you know plan to apply? /shilling