Netopia Launches ASP Partner Program for VARs

Netopia today announced its ASP Partner Program at VAR Vision.

Netopia, best know for DSL and Internet infrastructure hardware, has always sold through various channels.

But with the introduction of its Partner Program, Netopia, Inc. is now extending the use of its Web hosting software to its VARs for their own customers, giving VARs an entry-level way in to the ASP Market.

The ASP Partner Program provides VARs with free Web-based training, pre- and post-sales support, marketing tools and market development funds to help promote Internet services to their customers.

According to Katie Peterson, vice president, e-Stores marketing, Netopia’s software has over 50 vertical specific packages with ready-to-use photos and library images.

“This is another way of helping out the small business,” she said. “It is also a nice way for VARs to receive additional revenue.”

Netopia claims that 25 percent to 40 percent of Web site and e-Store sales are awarded to the selling VAR. With no investment in hardware or software, VARs can expand their product offering by selling Netopia-hosted e-Stores and Web sites, in addition to the commissions.

The pricing model starts at $19.95 a month for a simple business site. With an online store, the cost is $59.95 a month. According to Peterson, prices can go up from there depending on the applications.

“The annuity will keep coming,” Peterson said. “There is always the opportunity for the VARs to continue selling through upgrades.”

Netopia soft launched the ASP Partner Program three weeks ago to its current line-up of VARs through an e-mail. “We got 150 VARs up and running with the program from the soft launch,” Peterson said.

She told ASP-News, “Additionally, we signed up 11 partners just at the start of the show today.”