Kentish Express Ashford & District
Computer whizz sets up repair business
A tech-savvy teenager from Ashford has started his own computer repair business.
Fourteen-year-old computerwhiz Matthew Bridger created M-Tek Solutions after encouragement from a school careers advisor.
When a family friend complained that his PC had crashed, the John Wallis Academy pupil fixed the problem in just two days.
He said: “What started as a favour turned into a business in that moment, he wanted to pay me for my help but could not afford repair shop prices.”
Innovative Matthew saw his business opportunity and began restoring people’s gadgets with a no fix, no fee policy.
He continued: “I could not find a part-time job even though I had been applying everywhere.
“But now I think it is better than working for someone because I have my own schedule and I don’t get told what to do.
“It does not really affect my schoolwork as I get it all done in school. I stay behind to finish it and then go home to work for the business.”
To kickstart the company, the young entrepreneur made his own website and posted adverts online. He then set about scattering flyers and business cars around the local area.
He said: “My Mum and Dad have been great and backed me up all the way.
“Dad tells his friends at work, they tell their friends and I guess most of my customers have been from word of mouth.
“My career teacher at school is always there for me too, he’s trying to get me into the Princes Trust.”
But while Matthew says he has big visions for the business, his age is proving more of a hindrance than a help.
He added: “I want to expand by getting office space and employing more people.
“But it’s really difficult to get funding or rent anywhere when you’re only 14.”
To find out more about M-Tek Solutions, visit the website at www.mteksolutions.co.uk