Startup Corner: Cameron Rose and Matthew Thomas, Wide Open Networks LLC

Minimally viable product …
High capacity urban Internet service provider for the center city area focusing on multiple dwelling units, such as loft buildings or student housing projects. We also provide service to businesses.

Problem solving …
Fast, simple Internet.

Seed money …
Boot-strapped. At this point we have been entirely self-funded.

Hurdles …
Acquiring the funds to kick-start the network and the time to engineer it. Both of us have full-time jobs that require our attention, and the six-month goal was extended to nine months.


Next phase …
Hit 100 customers and double their capacity to 200 megabits per second, providing the best value-to-capacity Internet service in SGF. Also, expanding our network to reach more buildings in the downtown and Missouri State University campus area.

Pivots …
No significant business model changes, only changes in service offerings commensurate with capital we can spend in monthly costs for wholesale access.

Biggest mistakes …
Focused more on a prelaunch marketing plan and effort.

Greatest need …
Marketing strategy. Neither one of us is a marketing type, and it can be a struggle to focus on that part of the business.

Food for thought …
It most always takes longer than you anticipate to achieve a minimally viable product. If boot-strapping, use your skill set to pick up odd jobs that will help offset the capital investment of your venture.