Here is a list of a few software companies and consultancy firms that are offering free programs. 

• Security: Veracode, supplier of security software, launched ZeroDay Labs in May. The website is intended to build a security-aware community based on collaboration about software security and real-world experiences. Aside from promoting a forum for interaction, ZeroDay Labs will also offer code-level examples of vulnerabilities drawn from member experiences. By doing so, Vercode said the community will grow  and accelerate security awareness and remediation efforts. The examples are based on voluntary submissions by anybody (including non-Veracode customers). Organizations are encouraged to submit one application free of charge.
• Agile development: Consultancy firm ThoughtWorks recently launched Agile Transitions, a new online community related to agile IT. This site focuses on the exchange of ideas and best practices relating to agile development and includes input from senior technology executives from corporate, education and government sectors. Topics discussed in this forum range from risk management to the budgeting and financing of resources and also includes a library with links to webinars, white papers, among other information.
• Application developement: Consultancy firm Ci&T launched its Ci&T Innovation Program. This program is designed to help any participating company develop applications for mobile devices (beginning with Apple's iPad and iPhone) and eliminate risks associated with continuous application innovation, which can be costly, according to Ci&T. As part of this offering, Ci&T will work with companies for free to determine the requirements for a new mobile application and then design a prototype of the application. After, companies can then make decisions before going forward with development.
• Testing: Gomez, the Web performance division of Compuware, is offering a free online test to help businesses assess website response times across multiple browsers. The Multi-Browser Website Performance Test allows companies to see how applications respond, render and act on Mozilla Firefox 3.5 and Microsoft Internet Explorer 7. The test also indicates response times based on these four US geographical locations: New York City, Seattle, Los Angeles and Chicago.