Ecademy, the internet networking site for the business community, could be put up for sale by its owners Thomas and Penny Power.

The husband and wife team, who founded the business in 1998, are reported to have hired Unity Capital to advise on a potential sale, which analysts believe could fetch up to £20m.

Insiders believe that provided a suitable buyer is found, a sale could be complete by early 2007. UK publishers Pearson and Centaur are both said to be interested the company.

Alternatively, Ecademy's owners may opt to just sell a stake rather than putting the whole company up for sale. 

Ecademy has over 100,000 members worldwide, who use the site to share knowledge and make contacts through blogs, forums and clubs.