Centrella Technology Partners Accelerates Start-up Ventures in Telecom & Technology.

Business Editors

SEA GIRT, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 9, 2001

New Firm Serves Technology Hotbeds

Today, Centrella Technology Partners (CTP) announces the firm's founding, dedicated to serving technology ventures in New Jersey and the Eastern USA.

CTP enables technology start-ups to move rapidly from initial development into full-scale production. The announcement follows many successful consulting engagements for clients. In recent months, Michael Centrella, the company's founder and President, has been increasingly recognized for his success in working with dynamic technology ventures.

"New Jersey needs more experienced entrepreneurial people, such as Michael Centrella and his firm, to nurture New Jersey's start-up technology ventures and ensure continued success in our technology base," stated Senator Joseph Kyrillos, a member of the New Jersey State Senate, and its Economic Growth and Budget and Appropriations Committees. "Michael's background, in technology and entrepreneurship, helps start-ups identify and reach customers, in the best way with the right products."

According to Mr. Centrella, "Entrepreneurs must conceive the best plan and execute without flaw to realize their vision. We help entrepreneurs and their investors meet market needs and capitalize on opportunities." Centrella Technology Partners identifies and fills key roles in start-up ventures with the right strategy and the complementary ability to implement tactics.

Mr. Centrella brings more than 19 years experience in the telecommunications, Internet and data communications industries to new engagements. Recently, he served as CEO and a founder of Merlot Communications, a leader in developing hardware and software solutions that integrate voice, data and video for the small-to-mid-size enterprise market. Prior to Merlot, Mr. Centrella held executive positions at several prominent technology companies, including Avidia Systems, FORE Systems, Kalpana, Inc., 3Com and Texas Instruments.

About Centrella Technology Partners:

Centrella Technology Partners provides hands-on, executive technology expertise that harness entrepreneurial passion and vision for rapid execution. Venture-backed technology clients attain valuable market niches in telecommunications, the Internet and data communications. Founded by renowned technology entrepreneur and principal, Michael Centrella, the firm supplies critical entrepreneurial skills, such as corporate organization, board recruitment, fundraising, market positioning, selecting partners, and developing sales channels. He is a member of the boards of Enhanced Service Providers, LLC and recently Merlot Communications. He co-founded and served as CEO for Merlot, where he raised more than $19 million in venture funding. Mr. Centrella held executive positions at prominent technology companies, including Avidia Systems (acquired by PairGain, now ADC), FORE Systems (acquired by Marconi), Kalpana (acquired by Cisco), 3Com and Texas Instruments. He orchestrated Avidia's acquisition by PairGain. The firm helps technology ventures, such as Advanced Industries, AuctionLogic, ClickFinger, Dmind, Idyllix, ISPsoft, Kenetec, PurchaseFlow Systems, SOHO-Telecom, Tachion, Teleran Technologies, Xebeo, and YourFit. For more information visit www.centrella.com.