MYOB offers free websites for SMBs

Small business software company MYOB is looking to help kiwi small businesses establish operations online, offering free access to its Atlas website building platform for one year, regardless of whether the users are MYOB customers.

A partnership with Westpac, the offering will cost as little as $5 per month after the free period has expired, depending on the level of functionality.

MYOB has previously identified the lack of online presence as a major barrier for small kiwi businesses, with just 32% of respondents to a 2011 survey saying they had their own website.

Tim Reed, CEO of MYOB, says the deal offers an opportunity for businesses to 'embrace the opportunities of the internet and the online economy'.

"MYOB Atlas... makes it incredibly easy for businesses to create a smart website that will allow a business to be found by customers, be more competitive and transact online.

The target is to help 10,000 businesses establish their own websites.

"The broader economic benefits of a more connected business community... will also be significant in terms of growth, increased exporting opportunities, and a more nimble and responsive economy.

According to MYOB, the Atlas system allows business owners to set up their websites in around 15 minutes.

Go here to give it a try.