Program cuts software costs for some small businesses

(AP) A new program announced last Tuesday would provide Microsoft Windows and Office products free for a year to small businesses affected by hurricanes Katrina or Rita.

Sen. Mary Landrieu, D-La., announced the program. A news release from Gov. Kathleen Blanco’s office said that under the program, launching this week hurricane-affected businesses can purchase licenses for Microsoft software, including the popular Windows and Office products, through any authorized Microsoft reseller with payments spread over three years. Eligible business owners would then bring the first year’s invoice to any Louisiana Small Business Development Center and Microsoft will pay it.

“For a typical small business of 50 employees and 25 computers licensing Microsoft Windows Vista and the Office 2007 suite of programs, the free year will result in savings of about $12,000,” Blanco’s office said.