HP gives Yippee reason to cheer

By MICHAEL FOREMAN

Auckland shareware company Yippee has become the first New Zealand business to benefit from computer giant Hewlett-Packard's global programme to help internet start-ups.

Under the United States-based manufacturer's garage scheme, Yippee will be eligible for up to $3.6 million worth of HP computer equipment as well as technical expertise and marketing help.

Based in the Auckland Ferry Building, Yippee is attempting to capture a share of the US-dominated shareware market. The company's website, featuring 4000 free or trial version programs, went live last May and now receives 400,000 to 500,000 page-views a month.

Yippee founder Mark Stuart said the computer finance scheme operated like a pre-arranged line of credit but was subject to HP's discretion.

"It means that we don't have to worry about financing the equipment we need and we can concentrate on growing the business," said Mr Stuart. "We just have to say what we want and where in the world we would like it to be delivered and HP will take care of the rest."

While the finance would be welcome, said Mr Stuart, the non-monetary aspects of the scheme might be more valuable.

"HP take you under their wing to make sure that you succeed. For example, they will be driving traffic to our shareware site."

Mr Stuart said HP would also be introducing Yippee to Yahoo!, the world's most popular internet portal site.

"For us as a small company in little old Auckland, that's just great."

Mr Stuart said the HP association would also help Yippee to stave off opposition from within the computer industry.

'When you are going out into the big wide world and challenging some established business models, with a company like HP beside you they are more likely to help you than try to crush you."

HP New Zealand's solutions general manager, Mark Bowman, said Yippee had been selected ahead of more than 50 other local applicants as it had a strong business proposition and the company would benefit from HP's help.

Two other successful internet companies would be announced in the next few weeks.

Mr Bowman said Hewlett-Packard, which is investing $600 million in the garage scheme worldwide, would gain from being associated with successful internet companies.