TEENAGER'S PASSION LEADS TO SUCCESSFUL WEB ENDEAVOR

Jason Klein's passion for computers became obvious when he was in the eighth grade. So when he turned 21, he established his own Web hosting and network consulting business.

Klein's business, Datility Networks, Inc. in Newton has grown over the last four years to provide internet hosting s olutions that range from basic Web hosting services to custom hosting services, internet consulting services and Web development services. Custom hosting includes services such as data management for restaurants that can transfer sales, payroll inventory, cost of goods sold and expense information from individual restaurant locations to corporate offices. Other customer services can provide a search tool for realtors who list properties on their Web sites allowing potential clients the capability to search for available properties in any location. What makes Jason different from his competition is his desire to produce new and better products, utilizing Linux and automation of infrastructure and upgrading to a second T1 line in 2005.

Growth over the past three years has been in sales, profits and number of employees. In the past year a second location was opened in Wichita, and his client base now covers 13 states. Klein also goes the extra mile to meet his customer's unique needs. His services are provided to small and large businesses and he has become known as a person who is always there to assist business owners with any computer obstacle.

However, he knows his limitations and is quick to seek assistance before any problems occur. He knew owning a small business required wearing many hats and in preparation he sought counseling from the Small Business Development Center at Wichita State University. SBDC helped prepare a business plan and assisted in business financing by helping him obtain a Small Office/Home Office loan through the Small Business Administration. The center continues to provide counseling in the areas of marketing concepts and financial management.

His hobbies are limited as his business requires him to work a lot of hours; however, he is involved in his community. He works with other businesses to launch and manage Web sites like Kansas Disaster Relief and is a member of the Newton and Wichita Chambers of Commerce, Better Business Bureau, Computer Security Institute and the Newton Kiwanis Club.

Klein's accomplishments have been extraordinary considering he is only 25 years of age. In May 2005, he received an award from SBA as the agency's 2005 Young Entrepreneur of the Year for the Wichita District Office.