SQL 7 and MS Interdev

Some friends and I are looking to start a business idea, but our programming
dude knows SQL 7 and MS Interdev. I am looking into potential solutions so
that we don't have to run this database on an NT box.

I know Oracle comes in Linux flavours, but is there either an Interdev
subsitute (which is easily learnable by someone w/Interdev knowledge) or
will this run under VM?

We're trying to have a web-based database driven service. Can't say more
than that or my buddies will kill me!! :)

TIA,

Tim Weaver