Gary Smith admits he had no idea about business when he came up with the idea for Dyslexia Toolbox.
Having been a project manager for the O2 Think Big initiative which provides support to young people who want to improve their communities the 23-year-old came up with the idea of an app to help people like himself who have dyslexia.
Two years on, the Fareham resident has the promise of financial backing worth up to 150,000, and an app launch due to take place by the end of March.
The biggest help I can give to anyone is, I was a nobody, a support worker, he said.
Getting out there and talking to people about what you want to do is key. If you meet the right person, it is the best thing you can do.
I dont stop asking them questions. Its about utilising your contacts.
He says the app, which will cost 1.99, will have features such as 10 different colour overlays that can be used with the mobile phones camera to make it easier for the user to read text.
The app also allows the user to change the font type and colour and type text message and e-mails, and lays out the alphabet and months something Gary says people with dyslexia can find difficult to remember.
In the next year, he hopes to develop a new, multi-platform piece of software that would be more affordable than what is currently on the market.
He is working with business partner Gareth Cox and business mentor Chelsey Baker to develop the business and market the product.
Having already scooped the best start-up award at last years Excellence in Mentoring Awards, Gary is now asking for readers to support him in the Start Young Global Young Entrepreneurs Awards.
He has been nominated personally for the entrepreneur of the year award, with Brainbook being shortlisted for best new business and most innovative start-up
