Telstra, NAB launch small biz marketplace

Telstra and National Australia Bank have created a digital business marketplace, Proquo, aimed at two million Australian small businesses.

Telstra and National Australia Bank are putting a modern spin on old fashioned bartering.

The telco and banking giants have created a digital business marketplace, Proquo, for the use of two million small businesses.

It will act as a source of a range of services, create briefs for the work a business needs, and allow for the exchange of quotes and reviews and the management of payments.

Andy Ellis, group managing director of Telstra Business, said small businesses often struggle to get off the ground, and internal research shows the exchange of services will be a great advantage to many start-ups.

"Small business is the backbone of the Australian economy," said Leigh O'Neill, executive general manager of micro and small business at NAB.

"Around 97 per cent of all Australian businesses are small businesses and they provide a huge economic contribution to Australia's current and future prosperity."

No joining fee is required, and the swapping of services will be free, a Telstra spokesman said.

But sellers on the platform will be charged a commission on their monetary sales.

Several small businesses have been trialling Proquo, including Mello Media, which is run by web designer and developer, Sam Scriven.

Mr Scriven is interested in using the platform to secure work.

Ali Price - who offers coaching and services for mums in business through her company Motivating Mum - has also been testing the service.

Proquo looks similar to Freelancer, which allows small businesses to hire expert freelancers.

Another similar website is Hi Pages, which claims to be Australia's top site to hire tradespeople.

Proquo will begin a pilot phase in June and a full launch us expected in July.


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Source: AAP



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