Deadline Approaches For Start-Ups

Deadline Approaches For Start-Ups Seeking Technology Support From New Zealand's Leading IT Companies

Fledgling ecommerce ventures have until February 16th to apply for the inaugural round of technology packages being provided by KiwiStartUp.net.

KiwiStartUp.net is an initiative established late last year by Compaq Computer New Zealand and CLEAR Communications, using Microsoft eCommerce technology. Twelve start-ups per year will be provided with a technology package free of charge for 90 days to develop their eCommerce solution.

Todd Irving, Director of eBusiness at Compaq, says KiwiStartUp.net will play an important role in providing hardware, software and connectivity at a crucial stage for start-ups. "The pre-venture capital phase for start-ups is a difficult one, with companies requiring technology resources to develop prototypes to demonstrate their ideas to prospective investors," he says.

Applications have already been received from promising ventures needing resources to develop their eCommerce ideas. Successful applicants will also have access to the expertise and market reach of Compaq, CLEAR and Microsoft.

Applications for the first round close on February 16th, and the first batch of successful candidates will be announced on March 12th. The next group of start-ups will be selected by mid-year.

Successful candidates will receive a tailor-made technology package incorporating:

 A Compaq High Performance Server
 A CLEAR high-speed internet connection
 Microsoft e-commerce software (Windows 2000, Commerce Server 2000, BizTalk(tm) Server 2000, Exchange Server 2000, SQL Server(tm) 2000, Internet Security and Acceleration Server 2000)
 Microsoft's premier Developer Network Subscription (MSDN Universal).

Compaq, CLEAR and Microsoft believe KiwiStartUp.net will help retain innovation in the New Zealand software industry and will be an important source of support. A panel of representatives from each of the three companies will interview applicants.

Further details are on the programme's web site at www.kiwistartup.net. Applications must be made electronically via the web site and include a comprehensive business plan.

ENDS

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