I saw a free version of VB.NET somewhere in the MSDN website... Not sure if it compiles .exe but VB.NET is very different from VB6.
http://msdn.microsoft.com/vbasic/atthemovies/
Quote: "Let us know what you think! View and rate five movies, then sign up to receive your redemption code email entitling you to a complimentary Not-For-Resale copy of Visual Basic .NET 2003 Standard Edition*"
Quote: "* Offer good only to first party recipients of a valid redemption code email. Offer is non-transferable and the redemption code is for one use only, limit of one gift per person. Product provided is strictly Not-For-Resale. This offer is valid in the 50 United States, the District of Columbia, all U.S. military bases that contain valid APO/FPO addresses, and Canada. Please allow 4 - 6 weeks for shipment. Offer good only while supplies last, or until September 30th 2004. Microsoft is not responsible for lost, late, mutilated, stolen, misdirected or undelivered mail. Void where prohibited. "