Sahil Gupta, 15 years old with a $150,000 business

At the age of 12 Sahil Gupta knew he wanted to be in business for himself. Now aged 15, he employs five part-time staff.

Like many small New Zealand businesses Sahil's Hamilton based technology company, NET4U, started with big ideas and little start-up capital. So to get things going Sahil began by selling PC computers in the local LOOT and Trade and Exchange advertisers.

After success with this venture he recognised a growing market in bundling PCs with the internet. This led to him setting up an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

From a humble beginning using 33.6k modems, the ISP has now grown to offer broadband ADSL service to a predominately corporate clientele. NET4U now boasts a 24-hour help desk. Such is the quality of service, NET4U now provides wholesale connections to 3 smaller ISPs.

As most of his business is done by telephone, fax and e-mail Sahil has not had too many adverse reactions to his age.

"It's not like I try to hide my age, just most people don't ask how old I am."

In fact, in a highly competitive market his age has actually been useful.

"When I was starting out competitors were happy to help. I've been one lucky person."

Sahil says he had to give up a lot to get this far. While he recognises that "balance is what's required" he firmly believes there is "no success without sacrifice".

On an average day he finishes school and then goes home to answer calls and e-mails. Likewise holidays are spent working.

Sahil currently puts 90 per cent of his profits back into the business and has also set up a self-managed investment porfolio.

Sahil is now working on an e-commerce project called FONE4U. This website will retail cellphone accessories on the internet. In this business, as with NET4U, his wish is to "project a professional business".

Sahil's business and information technology skills are self-taught. His success is also due to his own tenacity. He has begun to build an empire with few mentors and little support. Pretty impressive business acumen for a 15-year-old.

NET4U

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