timmer: ideas

Web entrepreneurs are increasingly embracing new technology from “cloud” computing to new computer languages to try and slash costs as investors disappear because of the recession. Investors and entrepreneurs say cloud computing, new – and free – programming languages, open-source software, and use of the Internet to distribute and publicize products have made starting a company relatively inexpensive and will allow startups to ride out the credit crunch and recession. “What you’re talking about is life or death,” said Drew Clark, director of strategy for IBM’s venture capital group, speaking to Reuters on the sidelines of a business conference.