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Award for company that connects communities

Thursday 17 May 2012, 2:44PM

By Massey University

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College of Business Dean Professor Ted Zorn, Vision Manawatu's Elaine Reilly, James Watts of Inspire Net and University Chancellor Dr Russ Ballard.
College of Business Dean Professor Ted Zorn, Vision Manawatu's Elaine Reilly, James Watts of Inspire Net and University Chancellor Dr Russ Ballard. Credit: Massey University

PALMERSTON NORTH

An innovative company that grew from a garage to play a key role in getting New Zealand communities connected online has won an award for its contribution to the Manawatü region.

Internet service provider Inspire Net was tonight awarded the Massey University Business Link 2012 award at the Graduation Business Link function co-hosted by the University and Vision Manawatü in Palmerston North.

The award recognises the outstanding contribution the firm and its founder, James Watts, has made to the region and reflects the close and productive relationship between the Manawatü business community and the University.

Inspire Net began in Manawatü but now has built a high-speed fibre optic cable network around the greater district and in other parts of New Zealand. It has developed the central free wi-fi network to offer high-speed wireless Internet access across Palmerston North, Manawatü and Tararua for locals and visitors to get access to the Internet while on the move.

It was founded as a part-time hobby by Mr Watts in his garage in 1998, offering Internet access at approximately 10 per cent of the market rate at the time. It now has a customer base of 20,000 and employs 30 staff.

University Assistant Vice-Chancellor and Registrar Stuart Morriss, who presented the award, said it was for an organisation that contributes value and strength to the city and the wider community, and also supports the industry in which it operates. "Inspire Net easily fulfils all these criteria," Mr Morriss said.

Vision Manawatü chief executive Elaine Reilly, who was on the panel that selected Inspire Net as this year's winner, praised Mr Watts for his energy and work ethic. “Like all entrepreneurs, James likes to get on and do things and brings a practical and professional energy to every task. Keeping the lower North Island connected through central free wi-fi has been a powerful contribution to augment his business success. Inspire Net is a critical part of the fabric of Palmerston North city as a capable and connected central hub.”

Inspire Net also establishes community champions to assist with the roll-out of service and to promote uptake. Mr Watts has worked closely with Massey to ensure students in the halls of residence have access to personal broadband Internet.

Guest speaker at the Graduation Business Link function was Professor Ted Zorn, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of the University’s College of Business, who outlined Massey's commitment to continue strengthening links with the business community to ensure its research and teaching reflect the community's needs.