Jake Murray, 25, from Braintree, has launched his own web hosting service, with the help of a grant from Braintree District Council.
Awarded a £3,000 grant from the Young Entrepreneur Programme, Jake is set to establish his business in hosting websites. Web hosting allows individuals and organisations to publish their websites on the internet, making them accessible to users worldwide.
The investment enables Jake to purchase server hardware and secure space in a top-tier centre in the UK. Having servers in the UK is advantageous for GDPR compliance and offers better connectivity for UK-based customers, essential for a fast, reliable and secure web hosting service.
Jake Murray, founder of DigiHost, said: “This financial support is critical in launching my venture. My background in cyber security equips me to provide high-quality, secure, and compliant hosting solutions. As digital operations and data security become increasingly important, our service will undoubtedly meet a significant market need, especially for clients in the UK.”
Cllr Frankie Ricci, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth at Braintree District Council, said: “Our initiative aims to eliminate some of the obstacles which might deter young individuals from embarking on their professional journeys. By supporting young enterprises, we contribute to local economies and foster stronger communities and with the allocation of this grant in particular, we are investing not only in a local business, but also digital security and the growth of businesses across Essex and beyond.”
The Young Entrepreneur Programme is part of a wider drive to grow the local economy and create jobs.
The scheme is open to those aged between 16 and 30 and aims to inspire young individuals to use their talents for enterprise.
Grants between £500 and £3,000 are available to support start-up costs such as training courses, stock and digital equipment.
Applicants can apply online by submitting a three-minute video detailing their business idea and its potential.
Budding young entrepreneurs should visit www.braintree.gov.uk/yep for the full details.
People can visit www.digihost.uk to explore the services offered by DigiHost.