News release

Newly Appointed SBA Administrator Hector V. Barreto Shares Vision for a New SBA

During a special reception here today at the Entrepreneur Center, Hector V. Barreto, newly appointed administrator for the Small Business Administration will share his vision for "A New SBA." In conjunction with Barreto's address, the Northern California District of the U.S. Small Business Administration will join Compaq Computer Corporation (NYSE: CPQ) in launching a new CD-ROM that opens with remarks from Michael Capellas, Compaq's chairman and CEO, speaking to business owners about the SBA and the benefits of technology to a growing business.

"Business is all about relationships, about finding partners and making connections with customers and suppliers," said Hector V. Barreto, administrator for U.S. Small Business Administration. "Public-private partnerships are one of the ways we can make sure small businesses get their fair share of the action."

"We are pleased to assist the U.S. Small Business Administration in Northern California in their mission to assist, counsel, support and protect the interest of small business concerns and to assist them in their start-up and growth," said Robyn West, vice president North America SMB operations. "Through our partnership with the SBA and Entrepreneur Center, we are able to provide growing businesses the education resources necessary to assist in their IT decisions. We look forward to the countless possibilities this relationship will bring to emerging markets in the New Economy."

The new CD-ROM will be made available to business owners through the Entrepreneur Center, lending institutions and other channels. Business owners can also receive valuable discounts on the purchase of Compaq products and technology at the Entrepreneur Center.

About U.S. Small Business Administration

With a portfolio of direct and guaranteed business and disaster loans worth more than $45 billion, the SBA is the nation's largest single financial backer of small business. For more information about all of SBA's programs for small businesses, call the SBA Answer Desk at 1-800 U ASK SBA or TDD 704-344-6640. Also visit the SBA's extensive Web site at www.sba.gov.

About Compaq

Founded in 1982, Compaq Computer Corporation ("Compaq") is a leading global provider of enterprise technology and solutions. Compaq designs, develops, manufactures and markets hardware, software, solutions and services, including industry-leading enterprise storage and computing solutions, fault-tolerant business-critical solutions, communication products, and desktop and portable personal computers that are sold in more than 200 countries. Information on Compaq and its products and services is available at http://www.compaq.com.